The consumer mentality is often to get as much as possible for your money. Heavy duty, heavy weight, extra-strong, longer lasting. But there is a time and a purpose for lighter weight outdoor items that don’t cost more than they are truly worth.

A lightweight camping chair, for example, may be exactly the item you need in certain situations. Consider what constitutes a “lightweight” designation. The phrase can mean camping chairs for lightweight people. Or the meaning can be a chair that is literally light in weight for those hiking trips where every ounce is being counted carefully. And a lightweight camp chair can mean specifically a chair whose intended use will be occasional or low in expectations for durability.

When it comes time to purchase a lightweight camp chair, be sure you understand what you want the phrase “lightweight’ to mean. Then examine the various ads and item descriptions to see how the retailers are interpreting the same phrase.

“Lightweight” can mean the poor quality that consumers want to avoid. Something that is poorly made or manufactured without careful construction is obviously not what you want. So examine the details on what a seller is offering you.

Photo by Rev. Xanatos Satanicos Bombasticos (ClintJCL)

Check for the materials used in the construction of the camp chair. Is attention paid to the fabric or webbing used for the seat and back of the chair? Does the retailer share that information? Or are the details glossed over in terms of attractiveness and subjective comfort? The use of mesh fabric, if it is solid and high quality, can be a plus when the chair will be used outdoors. The mesh will allow rain or moisture to wick through and fall away from the seat and thus avoid rotting or destroying the solidness of the support.

Check too the steel and components used to construct the camping chair’s frame. “Powder coated” refers only somewhat to the protection and quality of the item and more to the way the chair will look over time. Details on the construction process, such as double riveting or extra strength joint preparation can help substantiate the manufacturers claim to quality.

Cup holders and arm rests and over-sized pockets for holding maps and books are great – but again, confirm just what you are looking for when you consider the lightweight camping chairs. More important than amenities is the manufacturer’s recommend weight limit: for a quality but still lightweight chair, a load limit of 225 is probably adequate for your needs. But checking this limit is essential for a satisfactory chair that you will count on for comfort and support.

If you are packing gear for two people to on your camping trip and plan on hiking in a long distance, you’re probably better off going with two lightweight camp chairs instead of a double camping chair. Most double camp chairs are not what one would consider lightweight.

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