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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

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.

#2

MOON LENCE 2 Pack Portable Camping Chairs Backpacking Chair - The 4th Generation Ultralight Folding Chair - Compact, Lightweight Foldable Chairs for Hiking Mountaineering, Beach

Rating
10.0
Weight
Comfort
Durability

Most important from
1693 reviews

Weight
The chair's foldable design and lightweight frame make it incredibly easy to carry and quick to set up, fitting perfectly into a backpack for on-the-go convenience.
Comfort
Despite its compact size, the chair provides surprisingly comfortable seating with solid back support, suitable even for heavier users.
Durability
The sturdy frame offers great stability, holding up well on uneven ground and supporting up to 400 lbs without issue.
Ease of Setup
The chair's foldable design and lightweight frame make it incredibly easy to carry and quick to set up, fitting perfectly into a backpack for on-the-go convenience.

The Moon Lence 2 Pack Portable Camping Chairs are a solid choice for ultralight backpacking and outdoor activities. Each chair weighs about 2.7 lbs, which is quite light for camping chairs that can support up to 400 lbs, making them suitable for most users looking to keep their pack light without sacrificing strength. The design uses aircraft-grade aluminum and a triangular frame for extra stability, so you can feel confident sitting on uneven ground. The seat fabric is made from tough 900D Oxford ripstop nylon with mesh backing, offering good airflow to keep you cool during warm weather.

Comfort-wise, the ergonomic design and mesh back help with ventilation, although the chair is armless, which might feel less comfy for longer sitting sessions. Its seat height of 11.5 inches is fairly standard for low-profile backpacking chairs, making it easy to relax close to the ground. Setup is straightforward thanks to the central linkage pole system, which lets you assemble or pack up the chair quickly without a hassle.

In terms of packed size, the chair folds down compactly to fit into a backpack or carry-on, and it includes side pockets for small essentials, adding to its convenience. The durability stands out because of the ripstop fabric and solid frame construction, but keep in mind the chair’s lightweight design means it might not handle rough treatment as well as heavier-duty models. If you need a pair of chairs that balance portability, strength, and comfort for camping, hiking, or beach trips, these are a great fit. For those who prefer armrests, a higher seat, or expect to rough up their gear often, other options may be better suited. This 2-pack offers excellent value for anyone wanting a dependable, easy-to-carry chair for outdoor adventures.

Rating
10.0
Weight
Comfort
Durability

Most important from
1693 reviews

Weight
The chair's foldable design and lightweight frame make it incredibly easy to carry and quick to set up, fitting perfectly into a backpack for on-the-go convenience.
Comfort
Despite its compact size, the chair provides surprisingly comfortable seating with solid back support, suitable even for heavier users.
Durability
The sturdy frame offers great stability, holding up well on uneven ground and supporting up to 400 lbs without issue.
Ease of Setup
The chair's foldable design and lightweight frame make it incredibly easy to carry and quick to set up, fitting perfectly into a backpack for on-the-go convenience.
#3

MOON LENCE Portable Camping Chair Plus, Upgraded Comfort & Size, Compact and Lightweight Still, Folding Chair for Backpacking & Hiking, 330Lbs Capacity (Black 2 Pack)

The MOON LENCE Portable Camping Chair Plus is designed with backpackers and hikers in mind who want a balance between comfort and portability. Weighing just 2.7 pounds, it is light enough to carry on long treks without adding much weight. When folded, it compacts down to about 15 x 5.7 x 5.9 inches, which fits reasonably well into most backpacks, though it may be a bit bulkier compared to ultralight models focused solely on minimal size. The chair stands out with its oversized 22-inch wide seat, providing more comfort than many compact chairs and supporting up to 330 pounds, making it suitable for a wide range of users. The fabric is strong and tear-resistant, and the aircraft-grade aluminum frame with reinforced legs offers solid stability even on uneven ground. Setup is simple and tool-free, so you can quickly get comfortable without hassle. The added mesh pocket and tactical webbing are handy extras for organizing small gear during outdoor activities.

The open back and armless design may not offer the fullest support some users prefer for longer sitting sessions. Also, while the chair is lightweight, its size when packed might feel a little large for those seeking the absolute smallest chair option. This chair presents a reliable option for anyone wanting a sturdy, comfortable, and easy-to-use backpacking chair that maintains durability, although it may be somewhat bulkier than the lightest alternatives favored by ultralight enthusiasts.

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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