Outdoor activities need not be an uncomfortable experience. Whether you enjoy family camping trips, exciting RV vacations, picnics, sporting events, tailgating, or simply chilling in the back yard with family and friends, outdoor tables and chairs are a necessity. There’s a lot of outdoor equipment designed to make these activities pleasurable, but none are as important as good seating and a place put your drinks, snacks and a decent surface on which to prepare food.
Because no one can really do without the comfort of outdoor tables and chairs, we’ve compiled a great list of these essential recreational items. This review is a comprehensive one. In the first section, I’ll be discussing foldable camping tables and there are many to choose from. Next we’ll take an in depth look at your best options when choosing portable chairs that both are practical and comfortable.
If you’re one of the millions of people who take pleasure in experiencing the great outdoors, this review of the best tables and chairs for camping and picnics is going to make your day. We’ve researched an endless list of products to bring you the very best available options.
Foldable Camping Tables
The list of available camping tables is seemingly endless. They come in all shapes and sizes. There are many manufacturers providing quality items. Initially, it may seem like an impossible task. Where do you begin finding the ideal camping table for your needs? One needs to look at quality. Camping, RVing, tailgating and other outdoor activities take their toll on your equipment. Practicality and portability is a factor that will vary from person to person – it all depends on how you intend using your outdoor tables. The size of your foldable table will be affected by a combination of practical portability and usability. So this, too, will also depend on your individual needs.
With all of this in mind, we’ve narrowed the list down to eight foldable camping tables that can only be described as the best in their class.
1. ALPS Mountaineering Dining Table
This foldable table is available in three sizes. So whether it’s a relatively small table for tailgating or sporting events that you require, or a large dining table for family camping trips, you’ll find one to meet your needs. Here are the dimensions and weight for each variant.
Because the ALPS mountaineering outdoor dining tables are constructed entirely from aluminum, they are both incredibly durable and wonderfully lightweight. Even the extra-large table can easily be carried by one person. One shouldn’t, for a moment, think that this weight tag makes them flimsy or unstable. The excellent design and rigid strength of aluminum mean that these tables can handle quite a load and won’t wobble about.
There are no side supports to get in your way. Rather, they’ve used a sturdy frame supported by X-shaped stands at either side to give the table incredible structural integrity.
Looking at the portability of these tables, one can only be impressed. You can dismantle and fold the table into a compact unit in no time at all. It the fits snugly into a carrying bag that is supplied with the table. Pack it up, sling the bag over your shoulder and off you go.
As a brand, I’ve come to respect ALPS Mountaineering as one of the best in the business. For quality camping equipment you can rely on these guys, both for innovative product design and extreme durability. This is a company that understands the needs of outdoor enthusiasts and, therefore, provide products that appeal to our needs. They are meticulous about quality and offer a lifetime warranty on their foldable outdoor tables.
2. Trekology Portable Camping Side Tables
I’m immediately struck by the clever space-frame design of the Trekology range of portable outdoor tables. Through the excellent use of triangulation, they’ve managed to reduce the weight of the table, whilst providing one of the most rigid structure for an incredibly stable work surface.
Just take a look at the weight of these tables. If you consider their incredible structural integrity, this can only be described as a remarkable feat of engineering. As ingenious as this design may be, there are a few concerns. At first, some may find it a little complicated to assemble the table. It doesn’t simply fold into position. You need to slot the tubular rods into plastic joining blocks that fit into slots on the table top.
Though, it doesn’t take too much getting used to. If you can pitch a tent, setting this table up will be a walk in the park. Once you get the hang of it, you should be able to assemble the table in a minute or two.
If you’re looking for an outdoor dining table, this won’t be your best option. The very design that makes it so strong means that you have restricted legroom when seated at the table. As a place to put your drinks, or for a very stable cooking surface, the Trekology tables are among the best. These tables can support a weight of up to 50-pounds. That’s impressive for such a lightweight design.
Certainly one of the best designs for a foldable outdoor table. The aluminum table top and legs mean that it’s as durable as they come and ultra-light. I particularly like the attractive bronze coloring and they come with a convenient carrying bag. Though make sure that you pack all the connecting pieces when you’re done. The plastic joiners are loose and can be overlooked.
For an incredible high-quality camping table, they are remarkably cheap and wonderfully practical. Perfect for tailgating, camping and picnics. In fact, any outdoor activity will be enhanced by these very practical tables.
3. Coleman 2000020279 Compact Folding Table
No review of the best camping tables can be complete without at least one Coleman product. These guys are an institution in the outdoor equipment world. When it comes to practical design and an understanding of our camping needs, who better to trust than Coleman.
There’s no doubt that the compact, lightweight Coleman 2000020279 is superb in every way. Like the Trekology they’ve done an excellent job of providing the structural support that you need for a sturdy table. Though Coleman has done this in such a way that you’re able to sit at the table comfortably. It’s equally good when used as strong work table as it is to seat four people with ease.
Using aluminum throughout, means that the Coleman is as durable as any of the best outdoor folding tables. It takes absolutely no effort to set it up and it weighs only 9 LBS. The fantastic design provides an incredible weight bearing capacity of 100 LBS.
A very practical camping table that folds up in seconds and comes with a carrying bag.
4. Coleman Pack-Away 4-In-1 Table
In true Coleman style, the 4-in-1 folding table combines versatility with total practicality. You’re able to use this unit in any number of configurations.
It is actually two separate tables, each with a surface area measuring 31.5” X 15.5”. They can be placed to form a square dining table or a long buffet-style table. In addition to this, the height can be adjusted 14.5, 27.5, or 31.5 inches. This gives you any number of practical uses. The aluminum base is sturdy and as rigid as you could possibly want with no interference with legroom for seated dining.
The MDF surface with a durable and beautiful coating is not only elegant, but incredibly strong and can handle up to 300 LBS. Yes, a folding camping table that you could actually sit on if you wanted to. Though the table surface is not able to handle much heat.
The stronger table top adds a little weight to the unit. Though, at 12.3-pounds, I wouldn’t say it’s difficult to carry. I’ll conclude by saying that this table offers a supremely elegant and practical solution to any of your outdoor needs. It’s as great when used as a barbecue prep surface as it is for family dining and everything in between.
5. Lifetime 4428 Height Adjustable Folding Utility Table
Steel and plastic wouldn’t be my first choice for a camping table, I always prefer aluminum for its low weight, strength, and durability. With that said, the Lifetime range with steel supporting legs and an exceptionally thick polyethylene table top has a lot going for it. For one thing, it’s very affordable. It’s also a very practical and versatile table.
There are plenty of size options available and all have adjustable height settings (24”; 29”, or 36”). The whole thing folds up into a very compact briefcase styled unit that’s easy to carry.
I’m not sure about the weight spec, but the combination of steel tubing legs and plastic surface can’t be too heavy. The granite-look table top is elegant and quite durable.
Though this table does tend to wobble about a bit and the cross member on the legs makes sitting at the ends of the table a bit of a challenge. Though this isn’t too bad – there’s bar running along the bottom.
Basically, this is range of folding tables are an excellent budget option without sacrificing on the quality of the product. The powder coated steel legs may heavier than aluminum but will stand the test of time. Likewise, the plastic table top is thick enough to last, but won’t hold the same kind of weight as aluminum surface. A 2-year warranty suggests to me that they have a good deal of confidence with regards to durability.
6. GCI Outdoor Compact Folding Camping Table
Available in two sizes, this compact little folding table is incredibly practical and small enough to take with you anywhere you go. Excellent design and quality materials make it well worthwhile. It’s available in the following sizes:
If you’re looking for compact portability, look no further. The square tubing telescopic legs allow this table to fold away into the smallest possible size. The large table, when folded, measures only 24.8” X 2” X 24.3”. The small version folds down to 18: X 2” X 17.9”. The all-aluminum sturdy construction provides a weight bearing capacity of 60 LBS and it stands firm on the ground. It folds into shape in matter of seconds and packs away just as easily.
For a very portable table that can seat two (small) of four (large), this is a very practical little table. You’ll have no trouble fitting either size into the trunk of a small car, making it ideal for tailgating and picnics. That’s not to say that you can’t use it for RV or camping trips just as conveniently.
7. OUTRY Lightweight Folding Table with Cup Holders
This is another great option for the budget-minded buyer. Designed for ultimate weight reduction, it’s a perfect camping table. It has a very strong aluminum frame with a Ripstop 600D nylon table top and even has cup holders. It’s available in the following two sizes.
Because of the low weight and the fact that it packs into a compact bag (much like a tent), these tables can even be used for backpacking. The frame, although very lightweight, is triangulated to form a very rigid structure.
The nylon table top may be a little uneven and won’t hold much weight. But, for its ultralight portability, this works excellently.
The cup holders mean that, despite the soft table top, your drinks won’t be falling over. You can’ beat the fantastically low price of this table and it is by far the most portable of the lot.
Portable Chairs for Camping and Sporting Events
Our selection of portable camping chairs is as comprehensive as the tables that we’ve reviewed this far. There are eight options, all of them exceptional in some way or another. Whether you’re considering your budget, ultimate comfort, or easy portability, you’re bound to find the perfect portable chair amongst the lineup. As much as these chairs are fantastic for camping, tailgating and sporting events, they’ll be just as useful when entertaining at home in your yard.
1. Kelsyus Original Canopy Chair
What better way to enjoy the beach or languishing in the summer sun beside the sports field. With the canopy set up, you have SPF 50 protection from the scorching sun. The canopy doubles up as carrying bag when the chair is folded up. It has powder coated steel legs which are very durable and it provides comfortable armrests with incorporated cup holders. The tough nylon chair can seat people up to 250 LBS, it’s not just built for skinny folks.
2. Coleman Oversized Quad Chair with Cooler
Another wonderfully practical and thoughtful product from Coleman. They’ve thought of everything when designing this very comfortable portable chair with loads of extra padding for a cushioned seat. In addition to the usual mesh cup holder that you’ll find on most camping chairs, this one also has a cooler built into one arm rest. You can keep up to four canned beverages beside you, cold and ready to drink. It has another compartment that allows you to store all sorts of other stuff, like sunglasses, your cell phone, or magazines.
This chair is very affordable, that’s something we’ve come to know about Coleman products – great value for money. Whilst cheap, it can certainly hold its own amongst any of the best portable chairs, supporting a weight of up to 300 LBS.
3. KingCamp Heavy Duty Folding Arm Chair with Comfortable Tilted Back
The KingCamp foldable arm chair is certainly not going to be your cheapest option. Though for supreme comfort and ultimate durability, this is just about as good as you’ll get. The strong frame and tough 600D Oxford fabric means that these chairs can handle the rough treatment that comes with rugged outdoor activities. It can handle a weight of 264 LBS. The high back and wonderful padding make it one of the most comfortable foldable chairs. Naturally, it includes a cup holder.
4. Browning Camping Strutter Chair
Browning are known as a leading manufacturer of camping and hunting equipment. So you can expect a lot form this very reasonably priced product. It has a camouflage finish, perfect for the hunter. The powder coated steel frame is strong enough to handle anything you throw at it and this extends to the arm rest which is also steel with a padded covering for extra comfort. It can hold a weight of 300 LBS. So, if you’re a big, burly guy, this is the chair for you. It also has rotational feet that make it possible to get a sure footing on uneven terrain – I really like this. The only thing lacking here, is that it doesn’t have a cup holder.
5. CORE Equipment Folding Padded Hard Arm Chair with Carry Bag
The Core Equipment folding chair is among the higher priced options, but I think it’s worth every penny. The extra comfort provided by the quilted (600D polyester) seat and backrest is a great advantage. It’s certainly as tough as any of the best, making it a great option for rough and ready campers who don’t want to compromise on comfort. The oversized cup holder is magnificent and is much more durable than the regular mesh-type cup holder that you usually find on foldable camping chairs. This is probably my favorite of the lot.
6. GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker Portable Folding Rocking Chair
While not perhaps everyone’s idea of an outdoor foldable chair, the rocking chair mechanism is certainly a novel idea. Looking past this unique feature, the GCI Rocker is every bit as practical and durable as any of the best in its class. The powder coated steel frame with padded armrests, provide a comfortable seat for a weight of up to 250 LBS. Because of the additional rocker mechanism, this chair is heavier than most, at 12.1 LBS.
7. TravelChair Slacker Chair Folding Tripod Camp Stool
Cheap, basic and extremely portable, the TravelChair Slacker is a great option when packing space is limited. It is designed and built for exceptional durability, with a steel tripod base and a super-tough 600D poly seat. As a basic, very portable, lightweight (2.2 LBS) folding outdoor stool this is perfect. Though it is only a stool, with no back or arm rests. In this category, it’s definitely one of the best I’ve seen.
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