If you are an avid outdoor lover or backpacker like us, you may be observing the best seasons to all the different hiking trails in different parts of the world. For each of these outdoor adventures or camping trips, having the right backpacking chair to help us rest and chill in while watching the sun rise, barbeque our food or wait for the stars to come out. As a backpacker, weight matters a lot, given everything goes on your shoulders. Hence, items that are lightweight and practical are of utmost importance. There are many things to consider when you start planning your next camping trip, so why not start with a camping chair? Here are some of our top picks.
What is the Best Backpacking Chair?
Below you’ll find the list of the top 5 Best Backpacking Chair. We compiled this list from backpacking chairs we have used, asked others about, and researched further to give you the best possible roundup. With many years of experience with chairs for backpacking you can be assured that this article will give you what you’re looking for.
We also wrote a buying guide and answered some of the frequently asked questions (FAQs) at the end of this article.
1. G4Free Upgraded Lightweight Portable Camping Chair
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Foldable: Yes Material: Aluminum, oxford cloth Waterproof Level: No |
The G4Free Upgraded Lightweight Portable Camping Chair is lightweight. At only 2.8 pounds, the chair is easy to take along on your travels. The chair is comfortable to relax in and has longer legs than regular camp chairs for the taller backpacker. The chair can also manage a weight of up to two hundred twenty pounds as it is nine hundred D oxford cloth with a substantial aluminum alloy frame.
The design of the chair is ergonomic for comfort and made with a foldable mesh to allow for airflow and to make it easy to fold up small. A convenient storage bag attaches beneath the chair so you can store essential items close by such as your keys or wallet. The storage bag becomes the travel bag as the chair folds up for storage.
Pros
- The chair only weighs 2.8 pounds
- You can easily clean the chair with soap and water
- The chair can support up to two hundred twenty pounds of weight
- Made of durable oxford cloth
Cons
- The bars in the middle of the chair can break if you sit down too hard
- Chair does not balance well on uneven ground
2. Helinox Chair One Original Collapsible Camping Chair
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| Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Weight: 2.12 pounds (0.96 kg) Foldable: Yes Material: Aluminum, polyester Waterproof Level: No |
The Helinox Chair One Original Lightweight, Compact, Collapsible Camping Chair packs small and weighs less than a bottle of wine. The frame uses a lightweight, sturdy aluminum alloy to hold up to three hundred twenty pounds. The total weight of the chair only equals up to 2.1 pounds and comes with a five-year warranty.
The cloth seat comes off for storage and is a machine-washable mesh that is six hundred weaves polyester that prevents tearing. It is ultraviolet light-resistant to help it reduce sun damage. The chair is quick to set up with bungee cord assembly poles that help hold it together.
Pros
- The cover is a durable, machine-washable polyester that is ultraviolet light-resistant
- The chair can support up to three hundred twenty pounds
- The chair comes with a five-year warranty, in case of damage
- Excellent strength to weight ratio
- Durable build
Cons
- Premium pricing
- Tips easily if you are trying to stand up
3. Moon Lence Outdoor Portable Chair
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| Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Foldable: Yes Material: Aluminum, nylon Waterproof Level: No |
A competitive design like Marchway’s low back seated chair, Moon Lence promises more durability with side pockets. Assembly is time-saving, easy to clean and best for all kinds of outdoor terrains and weather. It’s also ultra lightweight at under 3 pounds and has a mesh back panel to keep you from getting hot and sweaty. Though it doesn’t have a high back, the material still makes it comfortable enough to rest for long periods of time.
Pros
- Highly durable
- Easy to setup
- Ultra lightweight
- Mesh cooling back
- Excellent weight distribution
Cons
- No high-back
- No hand rest
4. ALPS Mountaineering Rendezvous Chair
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| Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Foldable: Yes Material: Aluminum, nylon Waterproof Level: No |
The ALPS Mountaineering Rendezvous Chair is a sturdy chair made with powder-coated steel. TechMesh Fabric covers the metal framing giving you a breathable, comfortable chair to recline. The chair design comes with shorted legs so you can stretch your legs out and lean back.
Because the chair is smaller, it can collapse down and fit in the small, included travel bag. The chair takes up little room and only weighs 6.8 pounds when assembled. The chair also comes in four different colors so you can match your gear if you choose.
Pros
- The fabric is a solid fabric, which means no tearing or fraying
- The chair is comfortable enough to sit and fish in for hours
- The chair has very durable stitching that holds up to even the most substantial weight
- Mesh cooling seat
- Low profile design
Cons
- Taller and heavier people might not be comfortable in the chair
- The plastic can warp in extreme heat
5. Cascade Mountain Tech Compact Low Profile Outdoor Folding Camp Chair
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| Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper) Foldable: Yes Material: Alloy steel, polyester Waterproof Level: No |
The Cascade Mountain Tech compact chair is a breathable mesh material that will keep you feeling fresh in the heat of the summer. The frame is a durable steel and aluminum combination that can hold up to two hundred fifty pounds and is easy to transport as it is only 7.4 pounds. The durable carry bag makes it easy to take it on the go, and its UV protected fabric makes it perfect for the sunny outdoors (especially at the beach). However, it is a lower design, so may not be the best option if you struggle to stand up from lower positions.
Pros
- You can carry it easily around with the convenient carry bag
- The chair can support up to two hundred fifty pounds
- The chair is close to the ground so you can stretch your legs out
- UV protected fabric
- Comes in several colours
Cons
- The chair might be too low if you have trouble standing up
- The chair is not as cost-effect as other chairs
Verdict
Based on all of our experience with chairs for backpacking, we found that G4Free Upgraded Lightweight Portable Camping Chair is the best backpacking chair available today.
Our Premium Option is Helinox Chair One Original Collapsible Camping Chair with all the best features and high-quality materials, but that’s only if you have more money to spend.
However, if you are on a slightly tighter budget, you can also consider the Moon Lence Outdoor Portable Chair as an affordable alternative.
Our other reviews you may find useful in your research:
What You Should Know Before Buying backpacking chairs
Design
The design of your backpacking chair needs to be sturdy enough to withstand abuse. If you are traveling with these chairs like we are or taking them into the woods, the plastic and metal components need to be able to withstand scrapes, kicks, and tight spaces. They also need to be designed in a way that will support your weight and not tip over.
Material
There are many different materials that can go into a backpacking chair. A high-quality camping chair is usually a combination of aluminum, steel, and fabric. All components need to be top-grade materials to help the chair last a long time. Our chairs are going on a year and so far, no problems.
Weight Limit
The weight limit is often a guideline on these backpacking chairs. You would occassionally be mounting it onto your backpack, so the lighter is always better.
In ideal situations, you want to consider how you will use the chair, and if your weight will be a factor. How you sit down can also cause problems as the sudden weight can break frames.
Questions and Answers About backpacking chairs
Why is weight important to consider in a backpacking chair?
When backpacking, every ounce counts. Carrying extra weight can make your journey more strenuous, especially over long distances or challenging terrains. A lightweight chair ensures that you get the comfort of a good seat during breaks without adding unnecessary weight to your pack. Additionally, a lighter chair often means that it’s designed specifically for backpacking, ensuring ease of use and portability.
Are backpacking chairs durable enough for rugged terrains and frequent use?
Absolutely! While backpacking chairs are designed to be lightweight, they don’t compromise on durability. Many are made with sturdy materials like aircraft-grade aluminum for the frame and ripstop nylon for the seat. However, it’s always essential to check the chair’s weight capacity and care instructions. Proper maintenance, like avoiding overly rocky terrains and cleaning off dirt, can further extend your chair’s lifespan.
Is setting up a backpacking chair hard?
Not at all! Most backpacking chairs are designed with the user’s convenience in mind. They typically come with a foldable or collapsible design that allows for quick setup and takedown. Many chairs have intuitive pole structures that snap into place without the need for tools. Additionally, they usually come with a carry pouch or bag, making it easy to pack them away and attach to your backpack.
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