Best Camping Chairs for Motorhome Touring

Best Camping Chairs for Motorhome Touring in 2026

One of the greatest pleasures of motorhome touring is finding the perfect spot, sitting back, and enjoying the view. Whether you're relaxing on your pitch, enjoying a beach day, or gathering around a barbecue with family and friends, having the right camping chair can make all the difference.

The best camping chairs combine comfort, portability, durability, and practicality. They should be lightweight enough not to impact your payload significantly, easy to transport, quick to set up, and comfortable enough for long periods of relaxation. Load capacity, storage size, and extra features such as cup holders, side tables, and storage pockets are also important considerations.

In this guide, we've rounded up some of the best camping chairs available in 2026, featuring trusted brands including Vango, Isabella, Helinox, Outwell, Timber Ridge, Kampa, and SUNMER.

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Quick Summary: Best Camping Chairs 2026

Best Lightweight Camping Chairs

• Helinox Chair Two
• Vango Micro Steel Camping Chair

Best Folding Camping Chairs

• Outwell Goya Chair
• Outwell Sardis Lake Two Seater Sofa
• Isabella Loke High Back Camping Chair
• Kampa Tubb Padded Camping Chair
• Isabella Director's Chair
• SUNMER Padded Camping Chairs

Strongest Camping Chairs

• Vango Samson 2 Oversized Camping Chair
• Timber Ridge Oversized Camping Chair

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1. Helinox Chair One – Best Lightweight Camping Chair

Specifications

• Dimensions: 85 x 55 x 61cm
• Packed Size: 46 x 13 x 12cm
• Weight: 1.3kg
• Maximum Load: 145kg

Pros

• Extremely lightweight
• Strong DAC aluminium alloy frame
• Side storage pockets
• UV-resistant and machine-washable fabric

Cons

• No side table
• Premium price point

The Helinox Chair Two is one of the lightest camping chairs available while still supporting an impressive 145kg. Its aluminium frame provides exceptional strength without adding weight, while the supportive seat and weather-resistant materials make it ideal for frequent touring.

Amazon: Helinox Chair Two on Amazon

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2. Outwell Sardis Lake Two Seater Sofa – Best for Couples

Specifications

• Dimensions: 125 x 57 x 95cm
• Packed Size: 30 x 30 x 97cm
• Weight: 8.1kg
• Maximum Load: 120kg per seat

Pros

• Comfortable two-person seating
• Includes carry bag
• Ideal for awnings and campsites

Cons

• Heavy
• Doesn't recline
• Less suitable for beach trips

If you're looking for shared comfort, the Sardis Lake Two Seater Sofa offers a unique alternative to traditional camping chairs. It's perfect for campsite living and creates a cosy outdoor seating area for couples.

Amazon: Outwell Sardis Lake Two Seater Sofa on Amazon

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3. Isabella Loke High Back Camping Chair – Best Reclining Chair

Specifications

• Dimensions: 65 x 81 x 121cm
• Packed Size: 65 x 111 x 9cm
• Weight: 5.4kg
• Maximum Load: 150kg

Pros

• Seven reclining positions
• Adjustable backrest heights
• Strong aluminium frame
• Stylish design

Cons

• Premium price
• No integrated cup holder

The Isabella Loke offers excellent versatility thanks to its seven-position adjustable backrest. It's a fantastic option for anyone who enjoys reading, relaxing, or sunbathing on site.

Amazon: Isabella Loke High Back Camping Chair on Amazon

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4. Isabella Director's Chair – Best with Side Table

Specifications

• Dimensions: 52 x 50 x 81cm
• Packed Size: 87 x 45.5 x 9cm
• Weight: 2.5kg
• Maximum Load: 100kg

Pros

• Removable side table
• Lightweight
• Stylish traditional design

Cons

• Lowest weight capacity in the roundup

The Isabella Director's Chair stands out thanks to its removable side table, providing a convenient place for drinks, books, or snacks while relaxing outside your motorhome.

Amazon: Isabella Director's Chair Alternatives on Amazon

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5. Vango Samson 2 Oversized Camping Chair – Best Heavy-Duty Option

Specifications

• Dimensions: 104 x 92 x 60cm
• Packed Size: 21 x 97 x 19cm
• Weight: 3.96kg
• Maximum Load: 180kg

Pros

• Excellent weight capacity
• Comfortable padded backrest
• Supportive hard armrests

Cons

• Oversized design may not suit everyone

The Vango Samson 2 combines impressive strength with relatively low weight. Supporting up to 180kg, it offers outstanding durability without becoming overly cumbersome.

Amazon: Vango Samson 2 Oversized Camping Chair on Amazon

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6. Outwell Goya Chair – Best Quick-Setup Folding Chair

Specifications

• Dimensions: 68 x 63 x 90cm
• Packed Size: 10 x 28 x 105cm
• Weight: 4.5kg
• Maximum Load: 100kg

Pros

• Opens and folds in seconds
• Includes carry bag
• Strong steel frame

Cons

• No cup holder

The Outwell Goya is ideal for campers who value convenience. Quick setup and straightforward storage make it a practical option for regular touring.

Amazon: Outwell Goya Chair on Amazon

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7. SUNMER Padded Camping Chairs – Best Value Twin Pack

Specifications

• Dimensions: 60 x 58 x 110cm
• Pack Size: 99 x 15 x 14cm
• Weight: 3.3kg each
• Maximum Load: 120kg

Pros

• Supplied as a pair
• Padded seat and backrest
• Side pockets and cup holders
• Great value

Cons

• May not suit solo campers

These padded chairs deliver comfort and practicality at an affordable price. Their drink holders and storage pockets add useful functionality for longer days outdoors.

Amazon: SUNMER Padded Camping Chairs on Amazon

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8. Timber Ridge Folding Camping Chair – Highest Weight Capacity

Specifications

• Dimensions: 100 x 63 x 61cm
• Packed Size: 100 x 20 x 20cm
• Weight: 5kg
• Maximum Load: 200kg

Pros

• Highest load rating in this guide
• Insulated cooler bag built into armrest
• Side pocket and cup holder

Cons

• More expensive than many alternatives

With a maximum capacity of 200kg, the Timber Ridge Oversized Chair is the strongest chair featured here. The integrated cooler bag is a particularly useful addition for keeping drinks chilled during warm summer tours.

Amazon: Timber Ridge Oversized Camping Chair on Amazon

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9. Vango Micro Steel Camping Chair – Best Budget Lightweight Chair

Specifications

• Dimensions: 64 x 53 x 55cm
• Weight: 1.5kg
• Maximum Load: 120kg

Pros

• Very lightweight
• Budget friendly
• Easy to transport

Cons

• More basic than premium alternatives

For campers seeking simplicity and affordability, the Vango Micro Steel Chair delivers excellent value. Its lightweight construction makes it perfect for beach trips and quick excursions.

Amazon: Vango Micro Steel Camping Chair on Amazon

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10. Kampa Tubb Padded Camping Chair – Best Budget Padded Chair

Specifications

• Dimensions: 65 x 50 x 87cm
• Packed Size: 19 x 19 x 85.5cm
• Weight: 3.4kg
• Maximum Load: 120kg

Pros

• Affordable
• Padded seating
• Includes clip-on cup holder

Cons

• No armrests
• Uses 500D fabric rather than 600D

The Kampa Tubb offers comfortable seating without stretching the budget. The included cup holder adds convenience, making it a great choice for casual campers.

Amazon: Kampa Tubb Padded Camping Chair on Amazon

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What to Consider When Choosing a Camping Chair

Before buying a camping chair, consider the following:

Weight & Portability

Motorhome payload is precious. Lightweight chairs are easier to carry and store.

Maximum Load Capacity

Always check the manufacturer's recommended weight limit.

Comfort

Look for padding, supportive backrests, reclining positions, and armrests.

Storage & Transport

Carry bags and compact folded dimensions make transportation easier.

Extra Features

Useful extras include:

• Cup holders
• Side pockets
• Side tables
• Cooler bags
• Adjustable reclining positions

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Final Thoughts

A quality camping chair can significantly improve your touring experience, whether you're enjoying a peaceful morning coffee overlooking the coast or relaxing outside your motorhome after a day of exploring. The Helinox Chair Two remains our favourite lightweight option, while the Timber Ridge Oversized Chair offers unbeatable strength. For value, the SUNMER and Kampa models are hard to ignore.

I hope this guide helps you feel more confident about keeping your motorhome safe and road-legal. If you found this information useful, be sure to join our active community where we share tips, tricks, and tour plans regularly! You can find me over on my YouTube channel, Johnny Burr, or join one of my Facebook groups: Motorhome touring Scotland or Motorhome Touring The UK and Europe. For real-time chat and advice, come hang out on our Motorhome Touring Discord server, and don't forget to follow my Instagram @johnnyburr3 for all the latest updates from the road. Happy touring!

All links in this blog are Amazon Affiliate Links, You will not pay extra, but a small commission goes to support Motorhome Touring.

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Motorhome Tyre Pressure & Weight Management

Setting the correct tyre pressures in your motorhome is not as straightforward as it is for your car. In a car, manufacturers calculate weight based on passengers and a standard payload—variation is minimal, and overloading is difficult.

With a motorhome, however, it is a different story. You are managing a large vehicle with a garage, bike racks, and an array of accessories you’ve bolted on. Because every owner packs differently, understanding your weight and your tyre pressure is critical for safety and legality.

The Weight and Payload Reality

Motorhome payloads are often tight, and it is very easy to exceed them. Modern motorhomes are heavier than their predecessors due to:

• Standard equipment: Electric flush toilets, ovens, and large water tanks.

• Safety & Legislation: Crash structures and emissions laws (like AdBlue tanks) have made base vehicles, such as the Fiat Ducato, physically larger and heavier.

• Add-ons: Awning, habitation air conditioning, and scooter racks.

The 3500kg Limit

The 3500kg Maximum Technically Permissible Laden Mass (MTPLM) is a major constraint. Exceeding this requires the C1 category on your driving licence. For drivers over 70, this involves medicals and renewal every three years. If you passed your test after January 1, 1997, you likely do not have C1, making the 3500kg limit a critical balancing act for manufacturers.

The Legal Responsibility

As the driver, it is your responsibility to know the weight of your motorhome. Stating "I don't know" is not a defense in court.

• DVSA Checks: The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) frequently conducts roadside checks, especially near motorhome shows. Recent data showed over 80% of motorhomes stopped were overweight.

• WIMS Technology: Weigh In Motion Sensor (WIMS) systems on major UK motorways (particularly the M25) can automatically measure axle weights and compare them against your registration data.

How to Weigh Your Motorhome

Calculations based on brochure figures are rarely accurate. The only way to know your true weight is to visit a public weighbridge (often found at agricultural firms or scrap metal merchants).

How to get an accurate reading:

1. Preparation: Visit the weighbridge with empty water tanks, a full tank of fuel, and all your usual touring gear and passengers on board.

2. Front Axle: Drive only the front wheels onto the plate.

3. Rear Axle: Drive the entire vehicle onto the plate. The rear axle weight is the total weight minus the front axle weight.

4. Documentation: Keep the printout from the weighbridge; it is proof of your vehicle's status.

Dealing with Overweight Axles

If you are overweight, consider moving heavy items (like water bottles) from the garage to low kitchen lockers to redistribute weight. Be mindful of the cantilever effect: a bike rack on a long rear overhang can magnify the load on the rear axle significantly—a 150kg scooter might exert 200kg of pressure on the rear, while simultaneously lifting weight off the front axle, causing stability issues.

If a cull of your kit isn't enough, you may need to look into replating your vehicle to a higher weight limit (e.g., 3500kg to 3850kg). Specialists like SvTech can advise on whether this is a "paper exercise" or requires hardware upgrades like air suspension. Note that replating over 3500kg requires the C1 licence category.

Penalties for being overladen:

• <10% over: £100 fine.

• >15% over: £300 fine.

• >30% over: Court summons.

Tyres: Sizing, Ratings, and Pressures

Once you have your accurate axle weights, check your tyre sidewall. A typical Fiat Ducato tyre might be marked 225/75 R16:

• 225: Tread width in mm.

• 75: Aspect ratio.

• R: Radial construction.

• 116Q: The load index (116 = 1250kg per tyre) and speed rating (Q = 99mph).

Important: Never fit tyres with a lower load or speed index than recommended. Look for 'CP' (Camping Puncture) marked tyres, which have a construction specifically designed for the heavy, sustained loads of leisure vehicles.

Calculating Your Pressure

Don't rely solely on door jamb stickers, which often relate to the base van, not the converted motorhome.

1. Manufacturer Data: Search for technical guides (e.g., Michelin Technical Guide or Continental Technical Databook) to find pressure recommendations based on your actual axle weights.

2. ETRTO Advice: The European Tyre and Rim Technical Organisation suggests using 80 psi on the rear axle. Be aware this can result in a very harsh ride.

3. The Gauge: Use an accurate tyre gauge (range 0-80 psi / 5.5 bar) with a bleed-off valve.

Setting the Pressure

• Cold Pressures: Always set pressure first thing in the morning when the tyres are cold. If you set them after driving, the heat will have increased the pressure, leading to an under-inflated tyre once it cools down.

• The Equipment: Standard 12V dash compressors are often underpowered for motorhome tyres. Invest in a dedicated, heavy-duty inflator like the Ring RAC900 (approx. £80), which features better hoses and the power needed for motorhome pressures.

Premium vs. Budget Tyres

When it is time to replace your tyres, stick to premium brands like Michelin, Continental 

While budget tyres save money upfront, they are often a generation behind in technology. A 2021 test by ProMobil demonstrated that in emergency braking scenarios, premium tyres stopped 3.8 meters shorter than budget tyres—that is the length of an entire car. Given how few miles motorhomes typically travel, the added safety and peace of mind of premium tyres are well worth the investment.

Join the Community

I hope this guide helps you feel more confident about keeping your motorhome safe and road-legal. If you found this information useful, be sure to join our active community where we share tips, tricks, and tour plans regularly! You can find me over on my YouTube channel, Johnny Burr, or join one of my Facebook groups: Motorhome touring Scotland or Motorhome Touring The UK and Europe. For real-time chat and advice, come hang out on our Motorhome Touring Discord server, and don't forget to follow my Instagram @johnnyburr3 for all the latest updates from the road. Happy touring!

All links in this blog are Amazon Affiliate Links, You will not pay extra but a small commission goes to support Motorhome Touring.

Linktree⬅️ https://linktr.ee/johnnyburr

Are Portable Power Stations Right for Your Motorhome

 

Bluetti Elite 300

Are Portable Power Stations Right for Your Motorhome, Camper or Caravan?

The rise of portable power stations—brands like Jackery, EcoFlow, and Bluetti—has certainly caught the attention of our community. While they are a popular gadget, deciding whether to bring one on board requires weighing the benefits against the physical and financial cost. Let’s expand on the pros and cons to help you decide if this is the right upgrade for your tour.

The Pros: Why You Might Want One

True Portability

Unlike a fixed battery bank, a portable power station offers genuine flexibility. You aren't limited to using it inside your vehicle. Whether you want to power a lamp in your awning, keep devices charged during a day at the beach, or even bring it into your home as a backup power source, the mobility is a major advantage.

Access to 230V Mains Power

As our contributor Nigel Donnelly highlights, most motorhomes typically run on a 12V supply. A power station bridges the gap by providing 230V mains power, which allows you to run standard electrical devices that you would normally only use at home. This is a game-changer if you want to use specific mains-powered equipment away from a hook-up.

Safety and Ease of Use

If you aren't comfortable with electrical DIY, installing an inverter into your van’s main electrical system can be risky; a bad installation could lead to damaged wiring or safety issues. A portable power station allows you to bypass the need for permanent modifications, saving you the worry of potentially damaging your 'van's internal electrics. Combined with a solar panel is where the power station comes in to a class of its own, having AC power for extended periods, topped up with solar power means true Off-Grid capability

Extra Ports and Connectivity

Modern life requires staying connected, and these stations often come equipped with a variety of ports, including USB-C. This creates a centralized hub for all your devices, allowing you to charge everything from phones to cameras without needing to tap into the main leisure battery bank.

Running High-Draw Gadgets

If you pick the right capacity, you can safely run energy-hungry appliances—like the best air fryer for a motorhome—without the fear of draining your main leisure battery. It also ensures you can keep hobby-related gear topped up even when you are off-grid or limited by restricted hook-up access.

The Cons: Things to Consider Before You Buy

Payload and Weight Restrictions

The biggest drawback is the weight. Many high-capacity units weigh upwards of 20kg, which can be a significant hit to your motorhome's available payload. If you are already close to your weight limit, adding such a heavy piece of gear might mean you have to sacrifice other essential items to stay road-legal.

The Financial Investment

There is no getting away from the cost; these units can be a significant financial outlay. Before you commit, it is worth asking if that budget might be better spent elsewhere on your van’s infrastructure.

Redundancy and Duplication

For many, a power station is essentially duplicating systems you already have. If you have a healthy, efficient 12V system and reliable mains hook-up, you may find that the power station sits unused for most of the trip. As Nigel Donnelly suggests, for a traditional motorhome setup, it is often a "nice-to-have" luxury rather than a functional necessity.

Professional Alternatives

If you are looking for more power, there are other paths. You could consider doubling up your existing battery bank or having a professional fit a dedicated inverter and additional power ports directly into your 'van. These solutions can sometimes prove more cost-effective and integrated than carrying a standalone, portable unit.

The Verdict

Ultimately, your decision should come down to your personal touring style. If you crave the freedom to operate gadgets anywhere, especially when you are regularly off-grid the convenience of a portable power station is hard to beat. However, if you primarily rely on hook-ups and want to keep your payload low, you might be better off sticking with your current, proven system.

Bluetti on Amazon

Want to join the conversation? I’d love to see you in our community! You can find us in our Facebook groups: Motorhome Touring Scotland and Motorhome Touring The UK and Europe. Follow me on Instagram @johnnyburr3, catch my content on Caravan Radio, or join our discussions on the Motorhome Touring Discord server. Don't forget to check out my YouTube channel @johnnyburr for more tips and adventures!

Are you currently struggling with your payload limits, or are you looking to upgrade your battery system for more off-grid freedom? Drop a comment below and let us know.

Linktree⬅️ https://linktr.ee/johnnyburr

Damp, the Silent Enemy

 

Defeating the Silent Enemy: The Ultimate Guide to Beating Damp in Your Motorhome

If there’s one word guaranteed to make any motorhomer wince, it’s damp. It isn’t engine trouble or a flat battery that should keep you up at night; it’s the silent, creeping menace that can turn your pride and joy into a costly headache if left unchecked.

The frustrating thing about damp is that it often starts small—sometimes invisible to the naked eye. But give it time, and it can cause serious structural damage, leave behind unpleasant smells, lead to a hefty repair bill, and tank your motorhome’s resale value. The good news? With a bit of know-how and a consistent routine, you can prevent it, spot it early, and deal with it before it gets out of hand.

Why is Damp Such a Big Deal?

Whether you have a compact campervan or a luxurious motorhome, your vehicle is a mix of materials—wood, insulation, aluminium, and GRP. Each reacts differently to moisture. Once water gets in, it doesn’t just sit there; it spreads, rotting structural timbers, delaminating panels, and inviting mould. Unlike a leaky tap at home, you often won't notice damp until the damage is already well underway.

The Two Faces of Damp: Ingress vs. Condensation

Understanding the source of the problem is the first step to fixing it.

• Ingress: This is the one to worry about most. It’s water getting in from the outside through failed seals around windows, doors, or rooflights; cracked sealant on joints; or poorly fitted accessories like bike racks and solar panels. If your seals are compromised, water will find a way in.

• Condensation: This is caused by everyday living—breathing, cooking, showering, and drying clothes. It’s less severe structurally than ingress but can still lead to persistent mould, unpleasant odours, and potential health issues if the ventilation is poor.

How to Spot the Early Warning Signs

When inspecting a motorhome, look for:

• Soft walls or floors
• Bubbling wallpaper or wallboard
• Musty smells
• Discoloured panels
• Staining around windows and roof lights
• High moisture readings from a damp meter

Damp rarely announces itself with a bang; it whispers. Trust your instincts—if something doesn't feel right, investigate it. 

Keep an eye (and nose) out for:

• The Nose Test: Does your 'van have a musty or "earthy" smell when you open the door after it's been closed up? That is often the first clue.

• The Hand Test: Press gently on walls and panels, especially around windows, in corners, inside overhead lockers, and near the washroom. Softness or "spongy" walls are a major red flag.

• Visual Cues: Look for discolouration, staining, peeling wallpaper, bubbling surfaces, or rusted screws.

• Window Condensation: If you see heavy water droplets on your windows in the morning, your ventilation needs an upgrade.

Why Experienced Motorhomers Take It So Seriously

A failed appliance, flat battery, or worn tyre is usually a straightforward repair. Damp is different because it:

• Often remains hidden for years.
• Continues to worsen if untreated.
• Can compromise the vehicle's structure.
• Is expensive to repair.
• Significantly affects resale value.

That's why many buyers consider a professional damp check more important than checking the mileage on a used motorhome. A 15-year-old motorhome with a dry body can be a better purchase than a newer one with water ingress.

The "Pro" DIY Toolkit

You don't need to be a professional to keep tabs on damp. For £20–£50, a handheld damp meter is the best bit of kit you can keep in your tool locker. It allows you to track moisture levels in your walls over time.

• 0–15%: Normal.

• 15–20%: Keep a close eye on it.

• 20%+: Time to investigate further or call in a pro.

Prevention: Your Best Weapon

To reduce condensation:

• Ventilate regularly
• Use roof vents
• Avoid drying clothes inside when possible
• Wipe down windows in the morning
• Consider a dehumidifier when on hookup

Prevention is always cheaper than the cure. Here is how you can stay dry:

1. Inspect Seals Twice-Yearly: Check all external seals. Look for cracks, gaps, or lifting sealant. If you see a crack, fix it now—don't wait for the next rainstorm.

2. Ventilation is King: Even in winter, moisture needs an exit. Keep roof vents clear, use your extractor fan while cooking, and crack a window when showering or sleeping.

3. Manage the Airflow: When storing your 'van, don't seal it up like a tomb. Use breathable covers, and consider placing moisture absorbers (or even tubs of silica gel) inside to pull humidity out of the air.

4. Create Gaps: If your furniture is pushed hard against the walls, air can't circulate. Leave a small gap between cushions, mattresses, and external walls to prevent mould growth.

5. Habitation Checks: An annual professional check is money well spent—and often a requirement for your warranty.

Winter Storage: Pro-Tips

If your 'van is going into hibernation, follow these steps to prevent spring-time surprises:

• Clear the Interior: Remove cushions and soft furnishings if possible, or prop them up so air can reach the backs of them.

• Open Everything: Leave cupboard doors, the fridge, and the wardrobe slightly ajar to encourage airflow.

• Check the Ground: If parked on grass, try to park on hardstanding or use blocks to prevent moisture rising into the chassis.

• The Window Vac: If you are using the 'van during colder months, a handheld window vacuum is a game-changer for removing condensation before it can pool and soak into the trims.

Karcher Window Vacuum

Join the Community

If you found these tips helpful, you’re in the right place! I’m Johnny Burr, and I’m dedicated to helping our community get the most out of their touring adventures. Whether you're looking for expert advice on vehicle maintenance, planning your next trip to the Highlands, or just want to chat with fellow enthusiasts, come join the conversation. You can find me over on my YouTube channel (@johnnyburr3) and Instagram (@johnnyburr3) for daily updates, or tune into my regular segments on Caravan Radio. For deeper discussions and community support, don’t forget to join our Facebook groups—Motorhome touring Scotland and Motorhome Touring The UK and Europe or jump into our Motorhome Touring Discord server. Everything we do is aimed at making your journey smoother, safer, and a whole lot more fun. Let’s keep those wheels turning!

Linktree⬅️ https://linktr.ee/johnnyburr