10 Best Ultralight Backpacking Chair 2025 in the United States

The Helinox Chair Zero Highback is a great option if you're looking for a super lightweight and compact chair to carry on backpacking trips. At just about 1.5 pounds, it’s easy to tuck away in your pack without adding much weight. Its folding design and single bungee-cord setup make it quick and simple to put together, which is handy when you want to relax fast after a day outdoors.

The chair’s high back is a nice touch, providing support not just for your lower back but also for your shoulders and neck, making it more comfortable than many other ultralight chairs. The materials are strong yet light—the frame uses a special aluminum alloy that balances weight and strength well, supporting up to 265 pounds safely. The fabric is durable ripstop polyester, resistant to weather and UV rays, so it should hold up well on many trips and is even machine washable.

One thing to note is the seat sits fairly low (6.5 inches high), which might feel a bit close to the ground if you prefer a higher chair. Also, the chair doesn’t recline or have armrests, so it’s quite basic in those terms. It’s best suited for hikers and campers who prioritize saving weight but still want a comfortable place to sit. The included five-year warranty suggests the brand stands behind its durability, giving extra peace of mind. If you want a reliable, lightweight chair that packs small and offers solid comfort on longer trips, this Helinox model fits the bill well.

The iClimb Ultralight Compact Camping Chair is a thoughtful choice for those needing a lightweight, portable seat for backpacking, beach trips, or outdoor events. Weighing just 2.2 lbs without its detachable large feet, it stays light enough not to add much burden to your pack. Its packed size is compact (about 14 x 5.5 x 5 inches), making it easy to carry and store. The chair’s square frame design and wide, anti-sinking feet provide good stability, especially on sand or soft ground, which is a nice plus for beach use.

Comfort is addressed well; with a seat height of 13.8 inches, a deep seat, and ergonomic mesh back support, it helps you relax without getting tired after long sitting. It also includes practical features like a cup holder and side pocket. Durability is strong thanks to aerospace-grade aluminum alloy and tough 600D ripstop fabric, with reinforced corners and corrosion resistance to handle rough outdoor conditions. Setup is quick and simple since the frame parts are connected by strings, so you can unfold and start using it easily.

One possible drawback is the extra weight added by the detachable large feet (0.2 lbs), which you might choose to leave off if you’re prioritizing weight over stability on very soft ground. Also, it doesn’t recline beyond one position and has no armrests, which might affect comfort for some users over longer periods. This chair effectively balances lightness, stability, and comfort, making it a solid pick for ultralight backpackers who value ease of setup and reliable support on varied terrain.

The Helinox Chair Zero Large stands out in the ultralight backpacking chair category primarily due to its impressive light weight of just 1.4 pounds, making it a great option for backpackers who prioritize reducing their load. It manages to combine this lightweight nature with a high weight capacity of 320 pounds, which is quite significant and can accommodate a larger range of users. The packed size is compact at 14 x 4.5 x 4 inches, making it easy to stow in a backpack without taking up much space.

Comfort-wise, the chair offers a modest seat height of 8.5 inches, which is reasonable for a backpacking chair but might be lower than some might expect for prolonged sitting, especially on uneven ground. The frame is constructed with DAC aluminum alloy, known for its durability while maintaining minimum weight, and the polyester material is both weather-resistant and machine washable, adding to the chair's longevity and ease of maintenance.

Setting up the chair is straightforward due to its shock-corded frame and high-strength resin hubs, which allow for quick and hassle-free assembly. This ease of setup can be highly appreciated after a long day of hiking or biking when you want to relax quickly. However, potential drawbacks include the lower height, which might not be comfortable for everyone, especially for taller individuals or those preferring higher seating. Additionally, while the chair is built for durability, it’s important to handle it with care given its lightweight design to avoid any damage in rugged environments. For those who prioritize ultralight travel, the Helinox Chair Zero Large is an excellent choice, combining portability with a sturdy build suitable for various outdoor activities.