Having a comfortable place to sit around camp makes a big difference after a long day on the trail. While camp chairs aren’t a necessity for backpacking trips, they’re great for car camping and troop campouts. This guide helps scouts choose the right camp chair for their needs.
Considerations
Portability and Weight
- For backpacking, lightweight and compact chairs (around 1–3 pounds) are best
- For car camping or troop campouts, heavier chairs are fine since weight isn’t an issue
Size and Comfort
- Look for chairs with good back support and a comfortable seat
- Some chairs have armrests, cup holders, and even storage pockets
Durability
- Strong frames (aluminum or steel) and durable fabric are important for lasting use
- Check the weight capacity, especially for larger scouts or adults
Setup and Storage
- Quick and easy setup is ideal
- Chairs that fold down small and come with a carry bag are easier to transport and store
Types of Camp Chairs
- Folding Chairs – Classic and sturdy, great for car camping
- Ultralight Backpacking Chairs – Small, lightweight, and packable for hiking trips
- Sit Pads or Camping Stools – Simple, very lightweight, but less comfortable
Recommended Camp Chairs for Scouts
For Car Camping / Troop Campouts
- REI Flexlite Camp Dreamer – Lightweight, comfortable, folds compactly
- Helinox Chair One – High-quality, ultralight, but more expensive
- Coleman Portable Folding Chair – Affordable, sturdy, with cup holder
- GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker – Comfortable with rocking feature, good for camp
Sit Pads and Stools
- Foam sit pads – cheap, lightweight, great for sitting on rocks or logs
- Small folding stools (e.g., ALPS Mountaineering, REI) – compact and stable
Tips for Scouts
- For backpacking, choose the lightest option you can tolerate — every ounce counts!
- For troop campouts or car camping, comfort and features like cup holders are worth the extra weight
- Practice setting up your chair before the trip
- Always bring a sit pad if you’re not using a full chair, especially in wet or cold conditions
Where to Buy – Local
REI – www.rei.com
Walmart
Dick’s Sporting Goods
Bass Pro Shops / Cabela’s
Local outdoor stores
Where to Buy – Online
Amazon – www.amazon.com
Backcountry – www.backcountry.com
Campmor – www.campmor.com
Sierra Trading Post – www.sierra.com