10 Best Ultralight Backpacking Chair 2025 in the United States

The Big Agnes Skyline Ultralight Backpacking Chair is an excellent choice for hikers and campers who want to travel light without giving up comfort or strength. Weighing just under 1.75 pounds and packing down to a small 3.5" x 3.5" x 17" size, it’s easy to carry and fits well in a backpack. Its unique hub-less frame made from aircraft-grade aluminum offers impressive sturdiness compared to typical chairs that use plastic hubs, meaning it won’t wobble and can support up to 275 pounds reliably.

Comfort-wise, it features a deeper and wider seat than most other ultralight chairs, with a 15-inch seat height and 17.5-inch depth, making it roomy enough for long rests. The chair’s nylon ripstop fabric is both durable and weather-resistant, designed to hold up well in rough outdoor conditions. Setup is straightforward thanks to color-coded poles and shock cords, so you won’t struggle putting it together, although some assembly is required and instructions are not included.

The main downsides are the slightly higher weight compared to the absolute lightest options and the need to assemble it yourself, which might be tricky if you prefer something ready-to-go instantly. Still, if you value a balance of light weight, solid durability, and better seating comfort, this chair remains a top contender for ultralight backpacking.

The CLIQ Portable Chair Version 1.0 is designed to be very convenient for outdoor use, especially for activities like camping, picnics, or festivals. It’s impressively compact, folding down to about the size of a bottle, which makes it easy to carry. Weighing 3.6 pounds, it's relatively light though slightly heavier than some ultralight backpacking chairs. Setup is quick and simple, taking just about 5 to 15 seconds without any complicated assembly, which is great when you want to relax fast after a long day outdoors.

Comfort-wise, the chair offers a high back and a roomy seat (22 by 22 inches), supporting up to 300 pounds with sturdy materials like aircraft-grade aluminum and ripstop ballistic nylon. This means it should feel stable and comfortable for most adults. The chair’s design is armless and leans towards lounging, which might not offer as much support for active sitting or hiking breaks where a firmer seat is preferred.

Durability is a strong point here, as the materials and double seams are built to last even with frequent outdoor use. However, at 3.6 pounds, it’s a bit heavier compared to the very lightest backpacking chairs, so if you’re trying to minimize every ounce, this might feel bulky. Also, while it’s easy to set up and fold, the folded size, although compact, might not be as small as ultra-minimalist options. This chair represents a solid choice for those seeking a comfortable, stable, and durable option that’s easy to carry and quick to use. It balances comfort and portability well for casual backpackers, campers, or anyone valuing these qualities.

The Naturehike YL08 Ultralight Camping Chair is a solid choice for ultralight backpackers who want a combination of portability and comfort. It weighs just 2.38 pounds, making it easy to carry without adding much bulk to your pack. When packed, it fits compactly into a 14.6” by 3.6” bag, which is convenient for slipping into most backpacks or travel gear. Setup is impressively quick and user-friendly—thanks to an internal bungee system and simple snap-together aluminum poles, you can have the chair ready in about 15 seconds without any tools.

Comfort-wise, the chair uses breathable 600D Oxford fabric with mesh panels that help keep you cool, and the seat is well-sized for most adults. Its open-back design may not provide full support for everyone, but it keeps things lightweight and airy. Durability is another strength, with a strong 7075 aircraft-grade aluminum frame supporting up to 265 pounds and reinforced poles that hold steady on uneven ground. The detachable anti-sinking feet are a thoughtful touch for stability on soft surfaces like sand or mud.

On the downside, the chair doesn't have armrests or reclining features, which might reduce comfort during long sittings for some users. Also, while it’s sturdy, the lightweight design means it might not feel as robust as heavier camping chairs. If you prioritize easy carrying, fast setup, and decent comfort in an ultralight package, this chair offers a great balance. However, if you want more padding, arm support, or a reclining option, you might want to look at slightly heavier models.