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10 Best Ultralight Backpacking Chair 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

CLIQ Portable Chair Version 1.0 - Lightweight Folding Chair for Camping - Supports 300 Lbs - Perfect for Outdoor Adventures - Moss

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,354
Weight
Packed Size
Comfort

Most important from
6775 reviews

Weight
While not the lightest chair on the market at around 3.6 to 4 pounds, it remains a highly portable option that fits well in backpacks and car trunks.
Packed Size
The chair folds down to about the size of a Stanley thermos, making it incredibly easy to carry in nearly any daypack, backpack, or car trunk.
Comfort
Despite its compact size, the chair feels surprisingly solid and stable, comfortably supporting users up to 250 pounds without wobbling.
Durability
The build quality is premium, featuring robust aircraft-grade aluminum and tight, supportive fabric that withstands frequent outdoor use.
Ease of Setup
Setup is straightforward and quick, typically taking around 10 to 15 seconds once you know the process, with no complicated assembly required.

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.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,354
Weight
Packed Size
Comfort

Most important from
6775 reviews

Weight
While not the lightest chair on the market at around 3.6 to 4 pounds, it remains a highly portable option that fits well in backpacks and car trunks.
Packed Size
The chair folds down to about the size of a Stanley thermos, making it incredibly easy to carry in nearly any daypack, backpack, or car trunk.
Comfort
Despite its compact size, the chair feels surprisingly solid and stable, comfortably supporting users up to 250 pounds without wobbling.
Durability
The build quality is premium, featuring robust aircraft-grade aluminum and tight, supportive fabric that withstands frequent outdoor use.
Ease of Setup
Setup is straightforward and quick, typically taking around 10 to 15 seconds once you know the process, with no complicated assembly required.
#2

ONETIGRIS Tigerblade Camping Chair, Lightweight Folding Backpacking Hiking Chair, Compact Portable 330 lbs Capacity

Rating
10.0
Weight
Packed Size
Comfort

Most important from
992 reviews

Weight
Compact, lightweight, and easy to set up, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize portability.
Packed Size
Sturdy construction and fits perfectly in small storage spaces like saddle bags or beneath car seats.
Comfort
Quick and efficient assembly, providing strong support and comfort during use.
Durability
Sturdy construction and fits perfectly in small storage spaces like saddle bags or beneath car seats.
Ease of Setup
Compact, lightweight, and easy to set up, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize portability.

The OneTigris Tigerblade Camping Chair is designed for ultralight backpacking, offering a good balance of weight and durability. Weighing just 2.9 pounds (1.34 kg), it is very lightweight, making it easy to carry on long hikes. The compact packed size of 5.9”x5.1”x13” (15x13x33 cm) ensures it won't take up much space in your backpack, which is a significant advantage for backpackers and hikers who need to minimize their gear load.

The chair’s high-strength 7075 aluminum alloy frame and 600D polyester fabric provide robust support, accommodating up to 330 lbs (150 kg), which is impressive for such a lightweight product. The triangle structure of the frame enhances stability and comfort, making it suitable for various outdoor activities like camping, fishing, and trekking. Setup is straightforward, thanks to the foldable frame and detachable fabric, allowing for quick assembly and disassembly.

However, some users may find the absence of armrests and a customizable feature a bit limiting for extended periods of use, and it may not offer the highest level of comfort compared to bulkier chairs. Additionally, the chair's low height could be a drawback for those who prefer a higher sitting position. Despite these minor drawbacks, the OneTigris Tigerblade Camping Chair is an excellent choice for those prioritizing portability and durability in their ultralight backpacking gear.

Rating
10.0
Weight
Packed Size
Comfort

Most important from
992 reviews

Weight
Compact, lightweight, and easy to set up, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize portability.
Packed Size
Sturdy construction and fits perfectly in small storage spaces like saddle bags or beneath car seats.
Comfort
Quick and efficient assembly, providing strong support and comfort during use.
Durability
Sturdy construction and fits perfectly in small storage spaces like saddle bags or beneath car seats.
Ease of Setup
Compact, lightweight, and easy to set up, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize portability.
#3

Naturehike YL08 Ultralight Camping Chair, 2.38 LBS Portable Backpacking Chair with Anti-Sinking Feet, Lightweight Compact Folding Hiking Camp Chair

Rating
9.4
Weight
Packed Size
Comfort

Most important from
806 reviews

Weight
The chair is impressively lightweight and packs down into a compact sack that fits easily in any backpack or travel gear.
Packed Size
The chair is impressively lightweight and packs down into a compact sack that fits easily in any backpack or travel gear.
Comfort
The deep seating design offers real comfort, making you feel fully supported rather than just perched on top.
Durability
Durability shines through with top-quality fabric and a sturdy frame that holds well on uneven or soft ground.
Ease of Setup
Setup is nearly effortless thanks to the internal bungee system, with only some fabric stretching needed to complete assembly.

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.

Rating
9.4
Weight
Packed Size
Comfort

Most important from
806 reviews

Weight
The chair is impressively lightweight and packs down into a compact sack that fits easily in any backpack or travel gear.
Packed Size
The chair is impressively lightweight and packs down into a compact sack that fits easily in any backpack or travel gear.
Comfort
The deep seating design offers real comfort, making you feel fully supported rather than just perched on top.
Durability
Durability shines through with top-quality fabric and a sturdy frame that holds well on uneven or soft ground.
Ease of Setup
Setup is nearly effortless thanks to the internal bungee system, with only some fabric stretching needed to complete assembly.

Buying Guide for the Best Ultralight Backpacking Chair

Choosing the right ultralight backpacking chair can significantly enhance your outdoor experience by providing comfort without adding much weight to your pack. When selecting a chair, consider factors such as weight, packed size, comfort, durability, and ease of setup. Understanding these key specifications will help you find a chair that best fits your needs and preferences for your backpacking adventures.
WeightWeight is a crucial factor for ultralight backpacking chairs because every ounce counts when you're carrying all your gear on your back. Chairs can range from under a pound to a few pounds. If you're a minimalist hiker, aim for a chair that weighs less than a pound. For those who prioritize comfort over minimal weight, a chair weighing up to two pounds might be acceptable. Consider how much weight you're willing to carry and balance it with the level of comfort you desire.
Packed SizePacked size refers to how small the chair can be folded or collapsed for storage in your backpack. This is important because space in your pack is limited. Chairs with a packed size of around 10-15 inches in length and a few inches in diameter are ideal for ultralight backpacking. If you have limited space or a smaller backpack, look for a chair that packs down to a very compact size. If space is less of a concern, you can opt for a slightly larger packed size for added comfort.
ComfortComfort is subjective and varies from person to person, but it generally includes factors like seat height, back support, and overall design. Some chairs offer higher backs and more ergonomic designs, while others are simpler and more basic. If you plan to spend a lot of time sitting, prioritize a chair with good back support and a comfortable seat. For shorter breaks or minimal use, a simpler design might suffice. Consider how much time you'll spend sitting and choose a chair that meets your comfort needs.
DurabilityDurability refers to how well the chair can withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including the materials used and the construction quality. Look for chairs made from high-quality materials like ripstop nylon and aluminum or carbon fiber frames. If you frequently backpack in rugged terrain or harsh conditions, prioritize a chair with robust construction and durable materials. For occasional use in milder conditions, a less durable but lighter chair might be suitable. Assess your typical backpacking environment and choose a chair that can handle it.
Ease of SetupEase of setup is about how quickly and effortlessly you can assemble and disassemble the chair. This is important because you don't want to spend a lot of time and effort setting up your chair after a long day of hiking. Chairs with simple, intuitive designs and fewer parts are generally easier to set up. If you value convenience and speed, look for a chair that can be set up in under a minute. If you're okay with a bit more complexity for added features, a slightly more involved setup might be acceptable. Consider how much time and effort you're willing to invest in setting up your chair.

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