10 Best Ultralight Backpacking Chairs 2025 in the United States

The MOON LENCE Portable Camping Chair stands out as a solid choice for ultralight backpacking thanks to its combination of light weight and strong build. Weighing only 2.7 pounds, it’s easy to carry without adding much load to your backpack. Its compact folded size also makes it travel-friendly. The chair’s durability is impressive, using aircraft-grade aluminum and tough 600D ripstop nylon, which means it can handle rough outdoor use and support up to 400 pounds—great if you want a reliable seat that won’t easily break or sag.

Comfort is considered too, with a ventilated mesh back to keep you cool and an ergonomic seat design that helps you relax after a long hike. Setup and takedown are hassle-free due to the unique central linkage design, making it quick to use even if you’re tired. The detachable claw-shaped foot pads add extra stability on different surfaces like sand or soft dirt, preventing the chair from sinking or tipping.

One minor point is that while the chair is lightweight and compact, its package size is not the smallest on the market, so if you need absolute minimal bulk, there might be lighter or smaller options. Also, the seat height and depth are comfortable for most adults but might feel a bit low for taller users. This chair offers a great balance of durability, comfort, and portability, making it ideal for backpackers who want a dependable seat without extra weight or complicated setup.

The MOON LENCE Portable Camping Chair, part of the 4th Generation series, is a robust option for ultralight backpacking. Weighing only 2.7 pounds, it is light enough to carry on long hikes, yet it impressively supports up to 400 pounds, thanks to its strong aircraft-grade aluminum frame. The chair's compact packed size (approximately 14 x 7.3 x 5.1 inches) ensures it fits easily into backpacks or carry-on luggage, making it highly portable for various outdoor adventures such as hiking, mountaineering, and beach trips.

Its durability is another strong point, featuring a 900D Oxford ripstop ballistic nylon seat with double seams, which is designed to be rip-proof and withstand rugged use. The mesh back enhances comfort by providing airflow and reducing sweat buildup, which is essential for maintaining comfort during prolonged use. Furthermore, the ergonomic seat design aims to provide a comfortable sitting experience, which is crucial for relaxation after a long day of trekking.

The setup process is straightforward, thanks to the central linkage design, which simplifies installation and disassembly. However, for those seeking extra features such as adjustability or reclining positions, this chair might fall short, as it only offers a single seating position. Additionally, while the chair's low weight is advantageous for portability, it may not offer the same level of stability on uneven terrains compared to heavier models. In summary, the MOON LENCE Portable Camping Chair is a well-balanced choice for ultralight backpackers prioritizing weight, durability, and packability, with minor trade-offs in adjustability and stability.

The MARCHWAY Lightweight Folding High Back Camping Chair is a great choice for those venturing into ultralight backpacking. With a weight of only 3.5 pounds, it's easy to carry, making it suitable for campers, hikers, and festival-goers. Its compact design allows it to fit into a suitcase or backpack without taking up much space, which is a significant advantage for travelers looking to minimize gear bulk.

Comfort is one of its standout features. The high back, along with head support, allows users to recline and relax comfortably. This chair is designed to offer a normal sitting position while maintaining proper support, making it ideal for long periods of use. The moderate seat height aids in getting in and out easily, adding to the user experience.

Durability is another strong point. The chair's construction includes a lightweight yet robust aluminum frame and high-quality ripstop fabric. It can support up to 330 pounds, which is impressive for a chair in this category, giving users confidence in its stability.

Setting it up is straightforward, requiring minimal effort. The elastic cords and sleeve design make assembly intuitive, and with a bit of practice, you can get it ready in under a minute.

There are a few drawbacks to consider. While it is quite stable, the chair's design may not be suitable for very soft or uneven ground, which could impact stability if you're camping in such areas. Additionally, the seat depth might feel shallow for taller individuals, which could affect comfort for some users.

The MARCHWAY chair provides an excellent mix of comfort, portability, and durability, making it a solid option for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a reliable ultralight chair. It's especially suitable for casual camping and short backpacking trips, although those with specific comfort needs or who often camp on uneven terrain may want to explore other options.