11 Best Backpacking Chair
Joshua Keaton
Backpacking isn't just about the hike. It's also about the camaraderie, like sitting around the campfire or enjoying a meal during a break in the hike. It’s also nice to be able to sit and take a break and rest your muscles.
To do that, a comfy camp chair is a great addition to your backpack. But you don’t want to add weight and bulk. So the best backpacking chair combines comfort, lightweight materials, and a convenient packed size and shape.
How do you find a hiking chair that combines all your needs? We’re here to help with a look at the best camping chairs. Let’s start with a look at the features you should consider to help you make the best choice possible.
Size
The size for your hiking chair has several components to consider. While you may think you need to find the smallest camping chair, that depends somewhat on your size. Some people actually need an extra large camping chair
When thinking about size, then, there are several factors:
- Packed Size: Compact camp chairs should not take much space in your backpack, or you can look for a small folding chair that straps on the outside of your backpack. Either way, you want to look for folding chairs with a small size for packing.
- Weight capacity: This depends on your size, so you need to be sure the chair can handle your body weight.
- Back height: Tall people or those with a long torso will want a tall camping chair, as a back that’s too short will be uncomfortable.
- Seat height and width: Large people will want to choose extra large camp chairs, so the width of the seat is important. Consider hip and waist width when choosing. But it’s also a good idea to pay attention to the seat height, or how far off the ground the seat is when you’re sitting in it. Tall people will probably want a higher seat so their knees aren’t folded up under their chin. And some of us just don’t like to sit right on the ground.
Capacity & Style
Those who will be hiking with their significant other may want to look for a different style than the solo hiker. A two-person camping chair means that only one of you has to carry a chair, but it likely also means more weight in your backpack than if each of you carried a chair.
Other styles that some people like include lounge camping chairs, which allow you to recline and sit in more comfort than a simple lightweight folding chair. If you’re looking for the best camping chair for a bad back, you may have to look at a lounge chair. Similar to double seat camp chairs, however, added comfort can mean added weight and bulk.
Weight
Some people want a lightweight camp chair that’s under two pounds, ensuring you aren’t adding too much extra weight to your pack. Others don’t mind a bit of extra weight if it means a more comfortable chair. Still others want an ultralight backpacking chair, which usually weighs only a few ounces, ideal for long hikes. Be sure you understand what the chair weighs before choosing.
Material
The choice of material and its comfort is somewhat of a personal preference. There are options for breathable fabric, or a ventilated chair, if you’re often hiking in hot weather. Or, opt for the durability of ripstop nylon if your chair will get a lot of wear and tear. Waterproof is another choice if you’re hiking in wet conditions. And then there are choices like cushioning on the seat, or a machine washable fabric.
Function
There’s also the question of function when you’re looking for a chair. If you’ll only be taking short breaks, then a portable foldable stool may be enough for you.
If you plan to use your chair on overnight trips, your foldable chair should allow you to sit comfortably for several hours. Do you want to sit in it to cook? Do you want to recline to watch the stars? Is swiveling a luxury or a necessity? How you’ll use your portable chair is important to consider before making your final selection.
Characteristics
Finally, there are some important characteristics to consider when choosing the most comfortable camping chair for you.
If you don’t mind sitting on the ground, and you want the versatility of a chair that lays flat to serve as a sleeping pad, then you don’t need a chair with legs. Either a chair that sits on the ground or a low profile camping chair will be a good choice.
If you camp in wet weather or you have other reasons for being high off the ground, you’ll want a chair with long legs. Decide what characteristics are important to you as you make your choice.
Now, let’s look at the best Backpacking Chairs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How to fix a broken camping chair
A:If you have a broken camping chair, you don’t necessarily have to throw it out and get a new one. Depending on the nature of the break, you can fix it.
If the brace is loose or bent, flip the chair upside down and loosen the brace with a screwdriver. Fix the bend in the brace and replace the screw. Or, if it’s loose, tighten the screw to ensure the brace is strong enough to hold you again.
Q: How to make a camp chair
A:If you’re really handy, you can make your own camp chair. The simplest version is constructed from three posts, crossed to make three poles that serve as legs, with three pegs on top to which you attach fabric.
Or, if you’re in the woods without a chair, you can make yourself a seat with branches, flat rocks, or logs.
Q: How to repair a torn camping chair
A:If your camping chair gets torn, you have a few options for repair. If it’s separated at the seam, it’s a fairly straightforward job to re-sew the seam. Do it yourself or ask a friend who’s good at sewing. If it’s a matter of holes in the chair or a tear away from the seam, you can sew a new cover and wrap it around the chair to cover the hole or tear. Or, you can contact a reputable upholstery company and see about an inexpensive and easy repair.
11 Best Backpacking Chair
1. MOON LENCE Outdoor Ultralight Portable Folding Chairs
2. MARCHWAY Ultralight Folding Camping Chair
3. Trekology YIZI GO Portable Camping Chair
4. GigaTent Blue Folding Camping Chair
5. GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker Portable Folding Rocking Chair
6. Sportneer Camping Chairs
7. Cascade Mountain Tech Compact Low Profile Outdoor Folding Camp Chair with Carry Case
8. FBSPORT Lightweight Folding Camping Backpack Chair
9. ENKEEO Camping Folding Chair
10. Helinox – Zero Ultralight Compact Camping Chair
11. Crazy Creek – Hex 2.0 Original Chair
MOON LENCE Outdoor Ultralight Portable Folding Chairs
This is a highly durable seat made of 600D Oxford cloth with high-strength aluminum alloy frame. Our heavy duty camping chair weighs only 2 pounds which can hold up to 242 pounds/110kg. Unique and ergonomic seat design gives you the best seat experience allowing you to relax. Breathable and soft seat net makes you feel comfortable while you sit. Both the mesh and the holders can be folded into small pieces.This portable chair is compact enough to put into your backpack or your carry-on luggage. Foldable mesh and metal poles make it easy to set up and fold down. It is super easy to clean: just sweep off or clean by soap water. The ideal choice for Backpackers, Tailgaters, Hikers, Concertgoers, Campers, Adventurers, and anyone looking for comfort without the bulk.
Pros
- Durable
- Lightweight
- Easy to clean
- Inexpensive
Cons
- Slightly shaky when installed
Our Take
One of the most important functions that a good backpacking and camping chair must possess is portability. You don't want to be carry heavy metal rods and bulky chairs as you walk a steep hike, do you? That is why I believe that the MOON LENCE Outdoor Ultralight Portable Folding Chair deserves a spot in this list.
First of all, it is definitely lightweight. In my conservative estimate, it only weighs around 2 lbs which is a weight that is slightly higher than that of a usual powerbank. This foldable and collapsible chair is well-made and is can carry the weight of a huge person. It also looks sturdy and will most likely last long if taken care of.
Another thing that got me into this chair is that it is easy to clean. We all know how dirty our stuff gets when we are in the mountains and it starts to run. With this chair, all you need to do is just sweep it off or clean it by soap and water. Awesome, isn't it?
MARCHWAY Ultralight Folding Camping Chair
The Marchway Ultralight Folding Camping Chair weighs only 2 pounds that can be picked up with a finger, and folds down to a 14.20 x 5.20 inch stuff sack that can fit into a carry-on. It is made with foldable aluminum poles with shock-cord structure enabling quick set up and fold down. Within one minute you can finish the assembly process. Velcro straps can hold the frame together easily. Ergonomic seat design gives you optimal seat experience. Breathable seat net brings you comfort when in hot weather. It is ideal for tailgating, mountaineering, motorcycling, hunting, music festival, concert party, park, BBQ, road trips and adventuring.
Pros
- Inexpensive
- Breathable mesh back
- Easy to dis/assemble
Cons
- Poor balance
- Very lightweight so the wind can blow it away
Our Take
Much like the other chairs in this list, the MARCHWAY Ultralight Folding Camping Chair is foldable and lightweight. But what makes this chair stands out is it that the mesh in the back of the chair makes it very comfortable to sit in. It is very sturdy, so that's a plus. But whenever you sit on it, there is enough air that circulates in your back preventing you from sweating too much.
It is also very compact. Since it's foldable, it is easy to collapse and can fit right into most backpacks. When it comes to it, this chair is also easy to set up and put down. The poles have stretchy connectors and snap into place making it easy to assemble and disassemble. Getting the seat cover on the frame is a minor challenge, but it's really not that bad.
As compared to other chairs with similar style, you definitely can't beat this price. Real snatch!
Trekology YIZI GO Portable Camping Chair
The new YIZI GO design is 1cm higher and 15% lighter and prior version. Experience superior lower back support from the new deeper seat fabric. It has breathable side Mesh Panels allow for increased Air Flow in hot and humid environments, helping to keep you cooler. Designed and Engineered with the same High strength aluminum alloys used by Aircraft manufacturers. The frame provides sturdy support with a weight capacity of up to 300 pounds. Engineering Grade 600D polyester seat fabric with double reinforced V stitch is durable, flexible and Machine Washable for ease of care. Designed with “daisy chain style” multiple tie downs and end handles. The chairs versatile design allows you to not only attach the bag to the chair, but also your backpack, motorcycle, etc. When you’re done the Yizi Go stores back inside the included storage bag.
Pros
- Has lower back support
- Has mesh panel for extra air flow
- Easy to set up`
Cons
- No arm rest
Our Take
If comfort is what you're looking for in a camping chair, then you would not be disappointed with the Trekology YIZI GO Portable Camping Chair. The way it is design is very ergonomic that it allows for superior lower back support. It also has mesh panels in the sides to increase air flow and prevent sweating in your back. It is so lightweight I don't even notice it in my pack (weighs just a bit more than a 20oz bottle of water) and is small enough to not take up excessive room. Setting it up takes maybe 1-2 minutes, and that includes getting it out of my pack. And yes, it is comfortable.
In conclusion, if you want utmost comfort, then go for this chair!
GigaTent Blue Folding Camping Chair
The GigaTent Blue Folding Camping Chair is a comfortable outdoor chair that offers maximum comfort and optimal relaxation. With a powder coated steel frame, and 600D padded polyester material, you’re guaranteed a long lasting chair to enjoy outdoors all year round with peace of mind. You can fold and unfold it in seconds because it collapses down to just 8″ x 38″ and can be stored almost anywhere. Open, it’s 40″ high (16″ back height), 21.5″ wide and 15″ deep. Whether you’re in your garden, at the beach, camping or hiking, this quad chair is super comfy. It even has a beverage holder in the arm rest for drinks, cups or bottles. It is also super light and easy to carry that it weighs only 7.85 pounds, ideal to hike with or carry. Its weight capacity is 250 lbs and it can be carried with one hand or tossed over your shoulder.
Pros
- Sturdy
- Portable
Cons
- Not very ergonomic
Our Take
Whether you’re miles away from home on a camp site near a lake or right in your backyard heating up some burgers with your buds, relaxation is imperative. After a long day of working up a sweat, it would be ideal to a have somewhere you can kick your feet up and chill. With our camping chair, you’re getting everything you need if you’re looking to relax. For that, the GigaTent Blue Folding Camping Chair is a perfect chair to bring with you!
The quality of this chair is amazing. The base carries some weight which is great for stability. However, for some reason, the lead edge of the canvas seat bottom is too high relative to where you posterior settles down into the chair. I am six feet tall of average weight and my legs are propped up so high because of the pressure of the lead edge beneath my knees. Some adjustments could correct this tho.
GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker Portable Folding Rocking Chair
With portability and durability built in to each chair, stool, and table, it takes less time to pack, carry, set up, and fix gear–that’s more time spent on what truly matters. GCI Outdoor prides itself on solving ease-of-use issues through innovation, ensuring relaxation. Designed with patented Spring-Action Rocking Technology, the GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker camp chair delivers a smooth rocking action on any surface in the outdoors. Featuring padded arm rests, built-in beverage holder, and a convenient carry handle, folding a camp chair open and closed has never been easier or safer with GCI Outdoor’s patented Eazy-fold Technology. The Freestyle Rocker is constructed of lightweight and sturdy powder-coated steel, supports up to 250 pounds, and has a limited lifetime warranty.
Pros
- Strudy
- Well-made
- Portable
Cons
- The seat angle is kinda uncomfortable
- Slightly more expensive
Our Take
To be honest, this is chair has a lot of potential. However, there needs to be a little more redesign. Nonetheless, it still does the job well and is very portable. It is still comfortable. It folds flat super easy and is light enough to pack one handed across the RV park to neighboring BBQ, rock in uneven ground, grass and gravel and store flat in the underbelly of our trailer for travel.
One major critic on this chair, though, is the angle between the chair seat and back is too upright and steep. This needs to be relaxed some. If the chair is on an uneven surface with the rear higher than the front it is very uncomfortable and you have to work against the shocks to get a somewhat comfortable position.
Sportneer Camping Chairs
The frame of Sportneer Camping Chair is made of heavy-duty aluminum ensures stability and durability of this camping chair. These portable chairs can be folded into a small piece of 14.25" x 5.25" including the carry-on bag and still weighs 2 lbs. It is extremely easy to carry during outdoor activities such as hiking, camping and backpacking. The aluminum shock-cord pole structure makes for quick intuitive setup. This chair’s height is 13.8" with a back height of 26". But it may not be suitable for people with back pain problems or those who can’t get up from low positions. This robust chair is capable of taking weight up to 350 lbs. This heavy duty chair is a necessity for campers, hikers, backpackers, adventurers and anyone who loves outdoor activities.
Pros
- Very durable
- Well-balanced
- Portable
Cons
- Slightly more expensive than others
Our Take
When other backpacking chairs in this list focus on the fact that they are comfortable and lightweight, the Sportneer Camping Chair pride itself for its durability. It same of heavy-duty aluminum which ensures stability and balance. However, don't get fooled because this is also a very comfortable and lightweight chair like much the others, making it one of the best in this list.
The unit seems really good and of really good quality materials. For those who said it takes over a minute to put together we're clearly doing something wrong. Just know that the lettering is on the left side of the chair and you will have it together in about 20 seconds. And to disassemble re-wrap and zip about 40 seconds. When you're sitting in the chair and you look at the aluminum poles they seem to flex slightly but not actually bend or stay in that shape once finished using. There is a slight amount of give and movement to the unit and I am by no means at maximum capacity for this chair.
Cascade Mountain Tech Compact Low Profile Outdoor Folding Camp Chair with Carry Case
This is the perfect low profile, lightweight chair for camping, the beach, outdoor concerts, sporting events and much more. It is made comfortable with breathable mesh fabric and cushioned armrests. . Reinforced feet allow it to stand on various grounds. Just 21" high and 20" wide, meeting requirements for most outdoor music festivals. Sits 9" off the ground allowing you to easily snuggle up by the campfire. Folds up fast and stows easily at 26" x 8". This can be stored in the bag with the shoulder straps included. The strong steel aluminum frame holds up to 250lbs. Carry it anytime, anywhere!
Pros
- Sturdy
- Comfortable to sit in
- Inexpensive
Cons
- It is hard to get out of
Our Take
To be perfectly honest, this is not the best chair there is, but it definitely is not bad for its price tag.
It is really comfortable to sit in and unlike a normal bag chair, my legs don't dig into the front of it. I can stretch my legs out or keep them bent. The arms of the chair have a nice padding so it is not just metal bars. Some people have said they wish this had a higher back to help support their lower neck, but I disagree. It serves its purpose and I have not had that issue. Scoot down on the chair if you want to rest your neck.
The only problem that I experienced in using this chair is the fact that it is pretty difficult to get out of. I pretty much have to roll out of the chair to stand up. Nonetheless, it is still worth mentioning in this list.
FBSPORT Lightweight Folding Camping Backpack Chair
These camping chairs are made of 1000D Oxford cloth with high-strength aluminum alloy frame. Our heavy duty backpacking chair weighs only 2 pounds which can hold up to 242 pounds/110kg. It has a Unique and ergonomic camping chair design gives you the best seat experience allowing you to relax. Breathable and soft camp chair net makes you feel comfortable while you sit. Aluminum shock-cord pole structure makes for camp chairs easy to assemble. Ergonomic design provides extra stability. Velcro strap to hold the frame together when collapsed. This weighs only 2.2 lbs. Additional storage bags and a carrying bag are included, which are easy to carry and take on.
Pros
- Sturdy
- Very compact
- Well-made
Cons
- Not for someone who is very tall or wide
- Can be slightly expensive depending on size
Our Take
First of all, I am very much impressed with how compact this chair is. This is a very comfortable chair that collapses into a very small bag, maybe the most compact of its class. It's easy to put together and take down. There's no guessing what goes where. The internal shock cords mean that the structure practically assembles itself when you take it out of the bag. All you do is secure the joints that suggest themselves, and then stretch on the fabric.
However, this chair is definitely not made for someone with a wider body. I will say that this chair is better suited for smaller people.So, for anyone over 200 pounds, I would consider getting something a little bigger. Part of this is because this chair is really low to the ground, so the legs don't provide as much support as some other camping chairs. But as a short person who likes hike and camp, this was a great buy.
ENKEEO Camping Folding Chair
ENKEEO’s camping folding chair with extended backrest allows you to fully relaxed and your head can be supported thanks to the add-on sponge pillow. This collapsible camping chair features high-density 600D Oxford fabric and rust-resistant 7075 aluminum alloy frame and it is capable of holding up to 330 lbs. This chair weighs 2.7 lbs that can be folded to 17 x 6 x 6 inches. This camping folding chair comes with 3 mesh pockets for convenience, it frees your hands by fitting in cellphones, keys, wallets, cards, and more small items. This portable outdoor chair features integrated foldable aluminum pole which ensures quick set up and folds down; you can finish the whole assembly process in seconds.
Pros
- Stable
- Compact and portable
- Sturdy
Cons
- No armrest
- Slightly more expensive than others in the list
Our Take
Probably one of my favorite things I have bought on Amazon lately. I bought this chair for my camping trips. I am not a back packer but I car camp at camp sites. I was looking for something comfortable and something that pack in my car better. You come use this chair for backpacking but it would be a luxury item for sure. It is very light and very comfortable to sit on.
The only thing I wish this chair has is an armrest, but other than that, this is a definite steal!
Helinox – Zero Ultralight Compact Camping Chair
This ultralight backpacking chair weighs just 1.1 pounds and packs down to the size of a water bottle, about 4x4x14 inches. When it’s set up, it measures 20.5 inches wide, with a seat depth of 19 inches, and an overall height of 25.5 inches. The seat sits 11 inches off the ground.
The foldable chair fits over an aluminum frame and sits on four poles. The material of the seat and the included carry bag is made of a durable, lightweight ripstop polyester. It’s machine washable and constructed to resist ultraviolet rays.
The frame is made of an advanced proprietary aluminum alloy. It’s lightweight but has a weight capacity up to 260 pounds. To set it up, there’s an internal bungee cord that self-assembles the poles on which the chair sits.
Pros
- Ultra lightweight, making it ideal for carrying on long hikes.
- Packed size is small.
- Comes with a carry sack for carrying in a backpack.
Cons
- Maximum weight capacity of 260 pounds.
- Seat height is only 11 inches.
Our Take
Crazy Creek – Hex 2.0 Original Chair
This ultralight backpacking chair is extremely packable, making it ideal when space or weight are a factor. Its design does not include legs, which makes it versatile for much more than hiking. Two pads are held together with adjustable straps, serving as a seat and a back when set up. And it weighs only 21.9 ounces.
It can be used in concert seats, on boats, at the beach, or for any type of hiking or camping. It can even be folded out flat to serve as a sleeping pad.
Cushioning comes from 8 millimeter high-density cored closed-cell foam, providing insulation and comfort. The outer shell is ripstop nylon that’s water-resistant and breathable, but seals out sand and dirt.
When open flat, it’s 33 inches long and 17.5 inches wide. It rolls up to a diameter of 4 inches. There’s an attached strap for carrying and a built-in hanging loop to clip it to your backpack.
Pros
- Easy to pack and set up.
- Versatile enough to be used anywhere, including as a sleeping pad.
- Rolls up for easy carrying.
Cons
- No legs means you’re sitting on the ground.
- Cushioning may not be enough for larger people.
Our Take
