There are so many different uses for a foldable camping table that once you buy it, you’ll wonder how you survived so long without it. If you’re in the market for a new one, then you’ll enjoy the following guide on how to find the best camping tables.
We went through the trouble of reviewing several different options using a strict criterion which will be revealed later on. With a camping table, you don’t have to settle for picnics all the time. You can create your own customized dining table. You can make it as fancy or as rustic as you like.
Having your own camping also gives you more flexibility in terms of the camping spots that you can pick. Plus, you can use it even outside of the camping setting, to provide extra seating when hosting dinner parties or as a prep station when hosting barbecues.
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Best Portable Camping Table
The beauty of shopping for the best camping tables is that there’s a plethora of options to choose from.
These tables come in different sizes, styles, weights and levels functionality. Most of them are highly flexible and easy to travel with and store.
1. Coleman Camping Table
Made from durable aluminum, this foldable camping table from Coleman is easy to assemble and simply snaps into place with very little effort.
In addition to the frame, the countertop is constructed from aluminum slats as well which can be disassembled and tucked away for easy storage while traveling. You can easily unroll these various components in order to attach the two rods it comes with in order to completely assemble your table.
The package comes with a carry bag that’s large enough to fit both the frame and the top. The overall weight of this table is 10 pounds, so it’s not a lightweight but it’s manageable. However, you’ll understand why it weighs this much once you unpack it because it’s a generously sized option that can easily sit up to four people at a time, comfortably at that. As such, it comes highly recommended for families or anyone who’s traveling with a group.
However, what really gives us confidence in this table is its simple and straightforward design. It’s sturdy, well-made and it’s sure to last for years to come. Plus, Coleman’s 1-year warranty gives us further peace of mind that this is a quality product.
2. iClimb Light Compact Camping Folding Table
This foldable table from iClimb is lightweight as it’s useful. This highly portable unit weighs just 3.53 lbs and is suitable for use even if you’re required to park far away from your camping site.
It comes with its own rip-stop mesh bag which is durable too. Not only will it fit effortlessly into your car or camper van, but you’ll find that setting it up is a breeze.
If you’re wondering what materials it’s made out of, you’ll be glad to know that it’s constructed from lightweight aluminum alloy. It folds up easily, thanks to the included slots which are located at the top of the frame. Although lightweight, this table can handle a considerable amount of weight, up to 66 pounds to be exact.
You can create even more storage by clipping on the extra tier to the table legs, or you can just leave them out of the equation if comfort and legroom are more important to you. This is definitely the best lightweight camping table, judging by its sturdy construction and its ability to handle a lot of weight. Overall, it offers great value for money.
3. Preferred Nation Folding Table
This folding table from Preferred Nation is a favorite thanks to how convenient it is to use. It comes folded in half, and when you’re ready to use it all you have to do is open it up and it’ll be flat and ready to use. This easy assembly is all thanks to its pop-up frame which is supported by dedicated clasps that are located at the bottom of the table.
The top of the table is made from quick-drying polyester which makes it resistant to rain and other moisture-promoting weather conditions. Not only that, it comes with built-in cup holders for you to safely store your cans and glasses while dining. This is a great feature to have when the camping ground you’ve set up in is uneven.
Wondering how easy it is to travel with? Well, you’ll be glad to know that it weighs just 5.83 pounds and it comes with its own carrying case.
This table also ensures that you’re sorted when it comes to storage, as it comes with a storage tier underneath which is perfect for storing condiments and sides while the main meals occupy the top part of the table. The only caveat that we noticed with this table is the fact that it’s quite lightweight and may not be able to handle heavy loads of different items at once.
4. REDCAMP Folding Camping Table
The REDCAMP folding camping table is one of a kind. It has a large surface area and a weight carrying capacity of up to 70 pounds. This isn’t surprising considering that it weighs 9.3 pounds. But, this is still lightweight when you take into account all the features that this table comes with.
This includes adjustable legs that make for versatile and easy assembly. It doesn’t come with a carry bag because it turns into a carry case with a built-in handle when you fold it up.
As if that weren’t enough, this camping table offers different leg size options from 15 inches to 28 inches. This means you can easily use it for both indoor and outdoor applications, and you can enjoy all of your meals on it while camping.
It’s worth noting that the top of this table is constructed from medium-density fiberboard which is 1.5 inches thick. It’s not as sturdy as say, a metal tabletop, but it’s just as useful and easy to clean. The frame is constructed from aluminum alloy which is weatherproof and durable. It’s arguably the best folding camping table from REDCAMP.
5. Outry Lightweight Folding Table with Cup Holders
This Outry folding table comes with a lot of features that make it an ideal addition to a camping trip with friends. This cost-effective option is constructed from durable 660D ripstop nylon which is sturdy and tear-resistant.
This is the type of material you want all of your outdoor furniture to have, especially if you’re going to need it to hold food. The best part is that this table is designed with four cup holders that measure 2.76 inches which makes it suitable for medium to large-sized bottles. This table is lightweight and easy to travel with, thanks to its aluminum alloy frame.
The medium version of this table folds up into a tiny 23. 6 x 3 inches with a weight of 1.7 pounds, while the larger one turns into a 30 inches by 3 inches size, while weighing 2.6 pounds. It’s much heavier but perfect for camping in the great outdoors.
We’re also glad to say that this table is easy to assemble at any size, and it comes with a carrying case that you can use to keep it in during storage. It’s the best portable camping table.
6. KingCamp Bamboo Folding Table
The last thing you want after slaving away on the grill is to struggle with a table that’s difficult to open.
No need to worry about that with this bamboo folding table from King Camp. It’s so small and portable that it’s perfect for travel.
Its dimensions include a 25.6 inches by 19.7 inches top which has a weight carrying capacity of 66 pounds. Although it only weighs 9.3 pounds, this table is quite balanced and sturdy so you don’t have to worry about the stuff you place on top of it.
The frame is constructed from durable aluminum which is adjustable from a height of 16.5 inches to 25.6 inches. The top is of course constructed from bamboo and it’s just as easy to fold as it is to handle. Not only that, but this material is weatherproof, UV-resistant, and waterproof. It’s also easy to maintain and it comes with its own carry bag with handle.
7. Trekology Portable Camping Side Table
The Trekology Camping Side Table is small as it’s convenient. But, it packs quite a punch with an aluminum top that’s coated with durable metal that adds an element of visual appeal. The same materials are utilized to make the frame which is supported by reinforced hinges.
Like the other tables on this list, this one is easy to assemble in a matter of seconds. Just remember to insert the legs into the caps to prevent slippage and ensure that the table stays balanced and sturdy when you have a lot of items packed on top of it.
The best part is that this camping table is available in three different sizes, namely small, medium, and large. The largest one weighs a little over 3 pounds and can easily handle a heavy load of several items placed on top of it. Not only that, but when the time comes to fold it up, you’ll find that it’s a breeze to do so, and carrying it is even easier thanks to its light weight.
You can easily pack them on the back of your camper van or even your car or boat deck without worrying about it taking up too much space.
8. Coleman Pack-Away 4-in-1 Camping Table
When there are so many options to choose from, it’s understandable to feel somewhat confused and overwhelmed. The Coleman Pack Away 4-in-1 adjustable camping table takes the guesswork out of the decision-making process. You can never go wrong with this versatile camper. As the name implies, you can set it up in four different ways for different uses.
You can set it up as a standard square table for a game of scrabble or sit-down lunches. All you have to do is connect the two rectangular sides together and voila! You have a large table.
This particular setup even comes with a dedicated crevice designed to handle large loads that are kept safe and balanced by the included bolts and clips that are used to connect the frames.
Alternatively, you could always connect the tables by their length to further increase its carrying capacity. This makes for an ideal buffet-style arrangement that’s just perfect for a nice repass, dinner party under the stars or a BBQ.
How to Find the Best Camping Tables
We know that it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when faced with such a diverse and fabulous selection of quality camping tables on the market.
That’s why we’ve put together this guide on the most important qualities to consider to help you narrow down your options and find the perfect table for you.
Portability
Portability is another important issue to identify when looking for a good quality camping table. That’s because you’ll probably travel with it far and wide so it needs to handle the rigors of the road as well as the different conditions that you’ll come across.
A heavy table isn’t a problem with someone that’s driving a van, but if you’re driving a motorcycle or you plan on going to a campsite that requires you to park far away from where you plan to set up your tent, then you should consider a smaller and more lightweight camping table that’s easy to manage.
Foldability is another important factor to consider when looking through the camping tables available. Some tables fold into suitcases while others come with dedicated carry bags and still others don’t come with carrying apparatuses at all.
Material
There are different materials that are utilized for making outdoor tables. Some are made from aluminum metal which is rust-resistant, lightweight, and durable.
Other tables are constructed from wooden tabletops that look nice but are not as resistant to weather conditions and require more upkeep.
Then you have fabric tabletop camping tables that feature materials like strong polyester, making them lightweight and easy to fold and store.
Weight Capacity
A metal frame is one of the first signs of a good quality camping table of good quality. It’s better than plastic options and can handle bumps and scrapes better.
But, make sure that the material it’s made from doesn’t negatively affect the table’s weight as it might make it easy or difficult to carry depending on how large it is.
Metal tabletops come highly recommended for their durability, ease of use and maintenance.
Space
There are different considerations to make when looking at this feature such as the size of the tabletop, its seating capacity and how easy it’ll make it for you to navigate the table, condiments, and cutlery. That’s why a solo camper or a couple will have different size requirements from a family.
You should also consider the size of the table when it’s folded as it will affect your ability to effectively store it when not in use. This all depends on how much space you have to spare not only in your van but back at home as well.
If leg room is important to you, then you should avoid tables that have an X-structure. But, if you want to have as much storage room within the table as possible for camping dinnerware, then you should consider something that comes with extra storage underneath for things like condiments.
Also, keep in mind that larger tables are often costlier and heavier.
Setup
The great thing about tables is that they’re usually easy to set up and use. This is especially the case for rolling and folding tables which is the type that we’ve exclusively featured in this article.
But, there are also tables that come in different parts so that you have to assemble them and this might take a while.
Luckily, they always come with simple and straightforward instructions on how to install them.
Frame Design
Camping tables come in different types of designs and shapes. You have options with cross supports that help to provide a strong base for the table so it can handle more weight.
But a table with these types of supports will reduce the amount of legroom that you can enjoy.
The good news is that there are tables whose frames have adjustable legs that enable you to enjoy the recreational aspects while seated and are built for more than dining.
Brand
When it comes to purchasing a camping table, name-brands matter. Sure, there are a few lesser-known brands that are doing their thing but they’re few and far in between.
The reason why we prefer well-known brands is because they have a track record of producing high-quality camping gear and accessories for years, and they have research and development departments that are dedicated to creating better and better products. So, high quality and value for money are almost always guaranteed with these brands.
Well-known brands also offer perks such as money-back guarantees and warranties, as well as positive reviews from satisfied customers who’ve been using their products for years and years.
Some of the best outdoor brands that we recommend that you explore when looking for the best tables including REDCAMP, Helinox Tables, Trejology, Coleman, KingCamp, ALPS Mountaineering, and GCI Outdoor.
Price
As with anything, you want to come up with a base budget while shopping for your camping table, and you definitely get what you’re paying for.
If you’re shopping on a tight budget, then you’ll be glad to know that there’s no shortage of decent quality folding tables to choose from, but they just don’t come with many features.
However, if you want to get a camping table that’ll last long and withstand the elements, then you should definitely expect to spend more and budget for it.
This is especially important if you’re looking to buy your camping table once instead of constantly purchasing a new one every other year.
Extra Features
Nowadays, tables come with all types of different features, from umbrella holders to storage spaces, cup holders and attached seats.
Some of these features are absolutely useful while others are unnecessary “nice to haves.” Either way, you’ll end up paying more for more features so it’s important to ensure that you’re actually getting features that you’re going to use.
Types of Camping Tables
As you can see, there’s a versatile variety of tables to choose from out there. Our favorites include rolling, folding, and assembly-requiring ones.
Here’s how they each work:
Folding Tables
As the name implies, this type of table folds up into a nice and compact piece of gear that you can easily carry with you.
They typically come with simple components such as a flat tabletop surface that’s suitable to sit at least two people.
They have a nice, low-profile design and it’s easy to figure them out especially if you’re a beginner. The great thing about folding camping tables is that there are models that even come with built-in camping chairs while remaining compact.
Most of the tables in this design type are made from aluminum alloy, a material that’s easily foldable and durable.
Roll Up Tables
Roll up camping tables are also compact and easy to store. They’re incredibly portable and don’t take up a lot of space.
Most of them also come with their own carry bag and have an aluminum frame that makes for a very durable and stable table that can handle a lot of weight.
A lot of them also come with a mesh layered top that makes them versatile or use in different applications. This means that you can easily handle a cup, bottle or bowl.
Some of these tables take it a step further by incorporating built-in cup holders in addition to the mesh layers, making them overall convenient options. They’re perfect for couples, singletons and small groups camping together.
Assembled Tables
Assembled camping tables usually come in two different components which means they require some form of assemblage. There’s usually one top section that’s easy to adjust and rearrange based on your preferences.
A good example of such a table would be the Coleman Pack-Away 4-in-1 Adjustable Height Camping Table. This is the transformers of the portable tables, as it can be assembled into different sizes making them ideal for users of different experience levels and groups.
However, it’s important to note that this type of camping table is more expensive in general but it’s worth the investment if you want a table that you can take with you anywhere, no matter if you’re traveling alone or with friends and/or family.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know what to look for in a camping table and what criterion to apply in order to narrow down your options and find the perfect option for your needs, we wish you a happy time.
If we were to recommend just one option from this list it would be the Coleman Camping Table. Not only does it come from a reputable manufacturer but it comes with a lot of useful features that make it one of the best camping tables out there.
It’s easy to fold and unfold, it’s compact, lightweight, large and stable enough to comfortably sit four people and it’s backed by a 1-year warranty from Coleman. In our opinion, this is what makes this table from Coleman the best lightweight camping table.