Traveling plein air painters have a unique challenge: capturing the beauty of nature in real-time while making sure their art supplies are easy to transport.
An easel is an essential tool for these artists, providing the stability needed to create masterpieces on location.
With so many options on the market, finding the right easel can enhance the painting experience and allow for greater creative expression, whether I’m in a serene park or at a bustling street corner.
When choosing an easel for traveling, I look for specific features that make the painting process smoother.
The weight of the easel is crucial since it needs to be light enough to carry easily but sturdy enough to hold my canvas steady against the winds.
Size also matters; an easel that collapses into a compact form is far more convenient for packing into the car or carrying on a hike.
Material is another key consideration.
Lightweight aluminum or wood can make a difference in durability and usability.
I also pay attention to how easy it is to set up and adjust, as I want to spend more time painting and less time wrestling with equipment.
With all these factors in mind, I’m eager to share my top picks for the best easels that are perfect for taking on the go.
Best Easels for Traveling Plein Air Painters
I’ve rounded up the best easels perfect for plein air painting on the go.
These options are lightweight, portable, and designed to help you capture nature’s beauty wherever you are.
Check out my top picks!
MEEDEN Plein Air Easel
This easel is my go-to for traveling painters thanks to its lightweight and portable design.
- Easy to carry in a backpack.
- Adjustable height for versatile use.
- Sturdy enough for various painting techniques.
- May struggle in windy conditions.
- Some users find it slightly wobbly.
- The mixing palette might not suit everyone’s needs.
I appreciate the adjustable height, which ranges from 17 to 65 inches.
This feature allows flexibility based on my preferred painting style.
The rubber soles offer good grip, so I can paint on various surfaces without worrying about slips.
Its compact design is another advantage.
Fitting easily into my backpack means I can take it almost anywhere.
The durable plastic drawing board is stable and supports my equipment without issue, making outdoor painting less of a hassle.
One aspect to keep in mind is its performance in breezy conditions.
While it generally stands strong, a mild gust could affect stability.
Despite this, it remains a practical choice for passionate plein air artists looking for a reliable easel.
VISWIN Portable Plein Air Easel
This easel is a solid choice for outdoor artists looking for portability and functionality.
- Convenient storage with two nylon bags included.
- Adjustable for various canvas sizes and painting techniques.
- Sturdy design that converts between tabletop and floor easel.
- Setup may require some practice to master.
- Slightly heavier than other portable options.
- Some assembly is necessary before use.
The VISWIN Portable Plein Air Easel really shines when it comes to portability.
It’s specifically designed for artists who enjoy painting outdoors, making sketches easy to transport.
The two nylon bags provide great storage for all your supplies, reducing the hassle of carrying separate items.
Another strong point is the ample storage space inside the easel.
I appreciate the well-thought-out compartments that keep everything organized, which can be a game changer when I’m on location.
The adjustable angles let me find the perfect height and angle, ensuring comfort during painting sessions.
While the setup is generally straightforward, I found it helpful to familiarize myself with the assembly process ahead of time.
It’s a bit heavier compared to some minimalist easels, but the sturdiness truly benefits my painting experience.
For anyone serious about plein air painting, this easel is a versatile and reliable option.
MEEDEN French Easel
This easel offers a stylish solution for plein air painters who value both aesthetics and functionality.
- Elegant walnut finish adds a classic look.
- Multi-functional design allows for easy transitions between setups.
- Lightweight and portable, making it ideal for travel.
- Assembly may require some patience.
- Stability concerns noted when used in outdoor environments.
- Some users found the canvas holder less robust than expected.
The MEEDEN French Easel truly stands out with its beautiful beech wood design, delivering a touch of elegance to any painting session.
I appreciate how it can switch from a tripod easel to a tabletop option seamlessly.
The dual drawer system keeps my paints organized, letting me focus more on creativity rather than clutter.
Portability is a significant plus.
Weighing just about 14.3 pounds, I find it manageable during outdoor trips.
The nylon shoulder strap adds to the ease of transport, ensuring I can carry it around without much hassle.
Once set up, the anti-slip rubber feet provide decent stability, minimizing shaking, which is crucial during creative moments.
Some users have mentioned challenges with assembly.
While the first setup may involve some trial and error, the instructions aren’t overly complex.
For those embarking on plein air adventures, this easel strikes a balance between style and practicality.
MEEDEN French Easel
This easel is a solid choice for anyone looking to combine portability with functionality.
- Compact design with ample storage.
- Adjustable height for various painting styles.
- Durable construction with a stylish finish.
- Initial setup may require some learning.
- Might need extra care when outdoors.
- Price point might be high for beginners.
The MEEDEN French Easel stands out because of its thoughtful design that caters to on-the-go artists.
Its compact size makes it easier to carry, and once you arrive at your painting spot, it transforms into a spacious work station.
The interior features several compartments that keep all your supplies organized, so there’s no need to worry about losing your brushes or paints while traveling.
I appreciate that this easel is made from high-quality beechwood.
It’s sturdy and lightweight, which is essential for plein air painting.
The rubber feet add stability on various surfaces, allowing for a more enjoyable painting experience.
Plus, the leather handle looks great and feels comfortable in hand—always a nice touch.
Adjustability is a significant perk, too.
With a height range that fits both sitting and standing positions, it’s versatile for any artist.
The capability to tilt the easel for different painting techniques is especially useful, whether I’m working with oils or watercolors.
This easel accommodates canvases up to 34 inches, making it suitable for various projects.
New Wave u.go Pochade Box
This pouch is a solid choice for anyone looking for a lightweight and portable plein air painting solution.
- Compact and lightweight, making it easy to travel with.
- Durable materials, resistant to water and solvents.
- Unique design features like strong magnets and friction hinges for versatility.
- Some users find it pricier compared to similar options.
- May require a compatible tripod for optimal stability.
- Limited painting surface size might not suit all artists.
The New Wave u.go Anywhere Pochade Box stands out for its exceptional portability.
At just 1.35 lbs and measuring 6″x8″, it fits easily into a backpack.
I appreciate the lightweight design, which makes it easier to carry on long excursions in nature.
Crafted from Baltic Birch wood, this easel combines aesthetics and functionality.
The wood is hand-sanded and finished to ensure durability against various artist mediums.
Its non-porous surface means I don’t worry much about spills or damage from solvents.
One of the key features is the magnetic components, which simplify setup and transport.
The friction hinges allow it to adjust easily between vertical and horizontal positions.
This flexibility is a big plus for my painting style.
Although it has some limitations in painting surface size, it still works well for smaller panels and quick sketches.
Buying Guide
When choosing an easel for traveling plein air painting, several factors matter.
Here’s what I consider when making my selection.
Weight and Portability
- Lightweight: Look for easels that won’t weigh me down.
- Compact Design: It’s best if the easel folds easily and fits in my gear.
Stability
- Sturdy Build: An easel should withstand outdoor conditions, especially wind.
- Adjustable Height: This allows me to set up at the right level for comfort.
Material
- Durability: Materials like aluminum or high-quality wood can last longer.
- Weather Resistance: Weatherproof options are a plus for outdoor painting.
Ease of Setup
- Quick Assembly: I prefer easels that are easy to set up and takedown.
- User-Friendly: Look for features that simplify my process, like built-in palettes.
Price Range
- Budget-Friendly: Setting a limit before shopping helps narrow my choices.
- Value for Quality: Sometimes, investing a bit more means better quality.
Considering these features makes the buying process smoother.
Each detail contributes to a better plein air experience, ensuring I can focus on my art.