Front Runner Expander Camping Chair Review: Compact, Sturdy, and Convenient?

Updated at: 28/07/2025

The Front Runner Expander Camping Chair offers a compelling blend of portability and sturdiness, making it an attractive option for campers and travelers with limited space. This review delves into the chair's design, build quality, comfort levels, and overall practicality. Weighing in at approximately 4 kilos and packing down to incredibly compact dimensions, the Expander prioritizes ease of storage and transportation. Its simple setup and included carry handle further enhance its convenience.This detailed assessment explores the chair's performance in various scenarios, from roadside stops to campsite meals. We examine the comfort it provides for upright seating, analyze the durability of its construction materials, and assess the overall user experience. Ultimately, we determine whether the Front Runner Expander Camping Chair lives up to its promises of compactness, sturdiness, and convenience, and whether it's the right choice for your outdoor adventures.

Pros And Cons

FrontRunner Expander Camp Chair
  • Compact and easy to pack
  • Sturdy when set up
  • Durable 600D polyester and steel frame
  • Mesh back for breathability
  • Multiple storage pockets
  • Easy setup and takedown
  • Good comfortable sturdy sitting position for its size
  • Upright seating position (not for lounging)
  • No headrest
  • Plastic hinges

Read more: Top 5 Square Camping Tables for Your Next Adventure

Unboxing and Initial Impressions

The Front Runner Expander Camping Chair arrives in a compact package, weighing approximately 4 kilos. Its folded dimensions are roughly 45cm x 42cm x 6cm, making it incredibly easy to store in a car or caravan. The included carry handle adds to its portability. First impressions suggest a surprisingly sturdy build for such a small package.

Close-up of the folded Front Runner Expander Camping Chair, showing its compact size and carry handle.
Close-up of the folded Front Runner Expander Camping Chair, showing its compact size and carry handle.

The initial setup process involves unfastening two Velcro straps and then extending the legs. It unfolds in a straightforward manner, and I was particularly impressed by the smooth and positive movements during the setup process.

The chair showing Velcro straps before unfolding.
The chair showing Velcro straps before unfolding.

Chair Dimensions and Design

Once set up, the chair boasts dimensions of approximately 40cm in height, width, and depth, providing comfortable seating for most adults. The overall height from the ground to the top of the back rest is just over a meter. It features a 600D polyester ripstop fabric for durability and a breathable mesh back panel for enhanced comfort.

Dimensions of the set-up chair are shown.
Dimensions of the set-up chair are shown.

The frame is constructed from powder-coated steel for strength and durability. While some hinges are plastic, the overall construction feels very robust and well made. The addition of small storage pockets on the arms and sides adds practical functionality.

Close-up of the chair's fabric and mesh backing showing its durability and breathability.
Close-up of the chair's fabric and mesh backing showing its durability and breathability.

Comfort and Usability

While not designed for lounging, the Front Runner Expander Camping Chair offers surprisingly comfortable seating in an upright position. Its sturdy build ensures stability. The chair's height is suitable for most users; however, it doesn't provide headrest support.

A person sitting in the Front Runner Expander Camping Chair.
A person sitting in the Front Runner Expander Camping Chair.

The chair is ideal for short periods of sitting, such as roadside stops, camping meals, or casual gatherings. Its compact nature makes it convenient for various scenarios where a lightweight chair is required. The lack of headrest support makes this more of a 'sit-up-straight' chair and not a recliner.

The chair positioned near a table, suggesting its usability at a campsite.
The chair positioned near a table, suggesting its usability at a campsite.

Packing and Storage

Packing up the chair involves reversing the setup steps. The chair folds neatly and compactly. The Velcro straps ensure a secure closure, and the carry handle makes transportation simple. The entire process is quick and efficient.

The chair being folded up.
The chair being folded up.

The ease of packing and storing this chair is a significant advantage. Its compact size makes it an excellent choice for users with limited storage space in their vehicles or campsites, such as those who frequently travel in caravans.

The folded chair ready to be transported.
The folded chair ready to be transported.

Conclusion

The Front Runner Expander Camping Chair is a well-designed, compact, and surprisingly sturdy option for campers and caravaners. Its ease of setup, storage, and comfortable upright seating position makes it a practical choice for various outdoor activities. While not ideal for extended lounging, its convenience and portability outweigh this minor drawback.

Final shot of the folded chair with the presenter.
Final shot of the folded chair with the presenter.

For users looking for a lightweight, easily storable chair for occasional use, the Front Runner Expander Camping Chair is highly recommended. However, individuals seeking a chair for extended lounging or reclining should consider bulkier options.