There are many amazing camping chair models on the market, and that means choosing the best lightweight camping chairs for your needs can be a challenge.
But to make your job easier, I’ve done some comparisons and tests to find which ones are really worth consideration.
Here are our top picks for the best lightweight camping chairs in the market by type:
- Best Overall Lightweight Camping Chair: REI Co-op Flexlite Air Chair
- Best Overall Camping Stool: Helinox Speed Stool
- Best Overall Legless Chair: Kelty Camp Chair
- Best Overall High Back Chair: Helinox Chair Zero High Back
Best Lightweight Camping Chairs
REI Co-op Flexlite Air Chair
Type: scoop | Folded Dimensions: 4.5″ x 15″ | Unfolded Dimensions: 25″ x 20″ x 20″ | Seat Material(s): Ripstop nylon | Weight Capacity: 250 lbs | Item Weight: 1 lbs
When it comes to actual camping chairs, this model by REI Co-op is one of the best on the market.
It has everything you need: a lightweight, sturdy frame and a comfortable seat.
Also, the chair poles connect to a hub, which makes set-up simple and straightforward.
It features four legs, which make the chair stable on any surface. Plus, the frame is made of aluminum, which keeps the chair weight to a minimum.
As for the seat, it’s made of sturdy Ripstop nylon, a material commonly used for making products for the outdoors.
The fabric is treated with a durable water-repellent finish, so you don’t have to worry about getting it soaked in a light breeze.
The coating also allows the fabric to resist stains better.
Pros
- Four-leg design makes the chair stable on uneven terrain
- Weighs just 1 lbs
- Seat fabric is treated with a moisture- and stain-resistant DWR finish
Cons
- Nylon stretches over time
Best for: hanging out around the campsite
NEMO Moonlight Reclining Camp Chair
Type: scoop | Folded Dimensions: 4″ x 14″ | Dimensions: 26″ x 20″ x 20″ | Seat Material(s): polyester | Weight Capacity: 300 lbs | Item Weight: 1 lbs 14 oz
What do you get by paying a premium price for a camping chair? An extremely sturdy design that will pass the test of time.
Even at first sight, it’s clear this is a high-quality product. The frame poles have shock cords inside that connect through a hub, which is visibly sturdy.
The legs also feature plastic feet which keeps them in place on any kind of terrain.
Assembling the chair is pretty straightforward. Simply expand the frame, then attach the seat that you can loosen or tighten with the straps.
Speaking of the seat, it’s made of recycled materials and features mesh that conforms to your body when sitting.
Lastly, the fabric is seamless and features edge binding for additional sturdiness, allowing it to withstand up to 300 lbs of weight.
Pros
- Mesh seat makes the chair breathable and comfortable even in high heat
- Has a weight capacity of 300 lbs (one of the sturdiest options on the list)
- Protected by a lifetime warranty by the brand
Cons
- Rather expensive for a chair
Best for: campers willing to pay more for a premium model
Helinox Chair Zero
Type: scoop | Folded Dimensions: 13.8″ x 3.9″ x 3.9″ | Unfolded Dimensions: 20.5″ x 18.9″ x 25.2″ | Seat Material(s): polyester | Weight Capacity: 220 lbs | Item Weight: 1 lbs
This is one of the lightest camping chairs on the market, weighing just one pound.
If you’re carrying gear on your back, you don’t have to worry about this chair weighing you down.
The low weight is thanks to the anodized DAC aluminum poles, which are the cream-of-the-crop when it comes to the quality of the chosen material.
These poles also feature shock cords, which makes the whole construction much sturdier.
Additionally, the chair comes with a stuff sack which makes transportation easy.
When folded, it’s quite compact, so you can attach it to your backpack.
The stuff sack will keep it safe from weather elements.
You can check out our video of the Helinox Chair Zero L here:
Pros
- Easy on your knees since the seat is 8.5″ off the ground
- Weighs only 1 lbs
- Shock cords eliminate stress cracking, so the frame is very sturdy
- Quick and easy to put together
Cons
- Not the most comfortable fabric (but dang it’s durable)
Best for: campers with limited storage space and weight
Klymit Ridgeline Camp Chair
Type: scoop | Folded Dimensions: 17″ x 4″ x 4″ | Unfolded Dimensions: 20″ x 20″ x 26.5″ | Seat Material(s): polyester, mesh | Weight Capacity: 265 lbs | Item Weight: 1.9 lbs
This model by Klymit is on the more affordable side, but that doesn’t mean it’s not as high-quality as many other products on this list.
First, let’s talk about fabric. The seat is 900D polyester, which is a high-density material that is common in outdoor gear.
The thick weave can easily withstand harsh weather conditions, heavy weight, and frequent use.
The backrest is pretty tall, allowing you to rest your head as well.
It has an integrated padded pillow, which makes the chair even more comfortable.
The side pocket is a nice addition, as it allows you to keep essentials close at hand.
It’s flat but wide, so it’s perfect for storing your phone, book, or flashlight.
Pros
- Features a tall backrest with an integrated pillow for optimal comfort
- Made of 900D polyester, which is very durable
- Features a side pocket for storing essential items
Cons
- Not as lightweight as other chairs on the list
Best for: car camping
Best Lightweight Camping Stools
Helinox Speed Stool
Type: stool | Folded Dimensions: 16.5″ x 3.5″ x 3.5″ | Unfolded Dimensions: 9.5″ x 14″ x 11″ | Seat Material(s): polyester | Weight Capacity: 220 lbs | Item Weight: 1.03 lbs
When it comes to camping stools, this model by Helinox holds a well-deserved first spot on the list.
It’s light and packs small, but it’s also super sturdy and will last you for a very long time.
This stool has a DAC aluminum alloy frame, which is the highest-quality and performance aluminum tubing you can find on the market today.
This alone should reassure you that this stool has an incredibly sturdy design.
In fact, the stool has a weight capacity of 220 lbs. Of course, the seat fabric also affects how rugged this model is.
In this case, we’re talking about 600D weave rip-stop polyester with aramid yarn.
This combo makes the seat sturdy and durable.
When it comes to storage, this model doesn’t disappoint.
The poles are connected and the seat is pre-attached, so all you need to do to set up the stool is to unfold it.
When not in use, the stool easily fits into an included carry sack, which makes transportation easy.
Pros
- Frame is made of DAC aluminum alloy, the strongest and best-performing aluminum tubing on the market
- Seat is made of polyester with aramid yarn
- Comes pre-assembled
Cons
- A bit expensive for a stool
Best for: campers looking for a stool that will last them a very long time
TravelChair Slacker Chair Folding Tripod Camp Stool
Type: stool | Folded Dimensions: 2.75″ x 2.75″ x 24″ | Unfolded Dimensions: 12″ x 14″ x 20″ | Seat Material(s): Ripstop polyester | Weight Capacity: 275 lbs | Item Weight: 1.9 lbs
Tripod stools are particularly handy for fishing or other activities you might do while seated.
But of course, they’re also great for just sitting around the campsite, waiting for dinner.
This model has a powder-coated steel frame. It doesn’t get much stronger than that.
As for the seat fabric, it’s made of 600D Ripstop polyester, which is the same material sport bags, luggage, and awnings are made of.
With materials in mind, it’s no surprise that this stool has a decent weight capacity.
It supports up to 275 lbs, which is quite impressive.
This tripod stool comes pre-assembled, with a Velcro strap keeping the legs closed when not in use.
There’s also a shoulder strap attached to the stool, so you don’t need a separate carry bag for transporting it.
Pros
- Has a weight capacity of 275 lbs
- Made of powder-coated steel and is extremely durable
- Velcro closure system keeps the legs closed when the stool is not in use
Cons
- A bit bulky when packed
Best for: campers looking for a stool that should last them a while
Check Price at Dick's Sporting Goods
GCI Outdoor Quik-E-Seat
Type: stool | Folded Dimensions: 26.8″ x 5.5″ x 4.7″ | Unfolded Dimensions: 14.6″ x 17.1″ x 27.4″ | Seat Material(s): Ripstop polyester | Weight Capacity: 250 lbs | Item Weight: 3.5 lbs
Most stools don’t have a backrest, but this one does! It’s wide and extra padded, so you’ll be very comfortable sitting on this stool.
This is a tripod stool with a frame made of powder-coated steel, which is extremely sturdy and durable.
The seat and backrest are made of Ripstop polyester, which is another very rugged material.
What I’m really impressed about is the addition of the beverage holder.
You don’t usually get that with stools, so that was a cool feature.
The holder is pretty large, allowing you to fit anything from a large water bottle to a wide mug.
Pros
- A wide padded backrest provides excellent support to your back when sitting
- Covered by a lifetime warranty by the manufacturer
- Drink holder can hold anything from a bottle to a mug
Cons
- Rather bulky when folded
Best for: campers who prefer having a backrest on their camping chairs
Coleman Woodsman II Backpacking Stool
Type: stool | Folded Dimensions: 22.2″ x 15.4″ x 2.5″ | Unfolded Dimensions: 17.3″ x 14.6″ x 28.5″ | Seat Material(s): polyester | Weight Capacity: 225 lbs | Item Weight: 2 lbs
If you’re looking for an affordable camping stool, you can’t go wrong with Coleman.
The brand is known for making high-quality budget gear, and this stool is no exception.
Well, this model is a cross between a stool and a chair, as it has the best of both worlds.
It features a backrest, which can really come in handy when you’re sitting for a longer period of time.
When it comes to the frame, the material of choice in this case is powder-coated aluminum.
The seat is made of polyester, which is an excellent option given its stretch resistance and sturdiness.
Combined, these two materials allow the stool to withstand up to 225 lbs of weight.
Pros
- Folds down flat for easy storage in the car trunk
- Features a backrest, which comes in handy for fishing and other sitting activities
- Covered by a 2-year warranty by the manufacturer
Cons
- Heaviest stool on the list
Best for: fishing
Best Lightweight Legless Camping Chairs
Therm-A-Rest Trekker Chair Kit
Type: legless, self-inflating| Folded Dimensions: 20″ x 20″ x 4.1″ | Unfolded Dimensions: 20″ x 20″ x 25″ | Seat Material(s): Ripstop polyester | Weight Capacity: 300 lbs | Item Weight: 13 oz
Now, this chair by Therm-a-Rest is quite something. It’s extremely light, it’s compact when packed down, and it’s extremely relaxing to sit in.
The seat is made of 75D Ripstop polyester, which is typically used for tents.
This fabric is durable but very light, which explains why this chair weighs just 10 oz.
This trekker chair is designed to work with most Therm-a-Rest inflatable pads, but it also fits a variety of other brands’ products as well.
Since it comes in two widths, you can choose the one that suits you more.
The chair features two straps that allow you to adjust the backrest angle.
You can set it up in different configurations: a mattress, lounge, or chair.
Pros
- Weighs just 13 oz and practically unnoticeable in your backpack
- Straps can be adjusted depending on the angle you want for your backrest
- Comes in two widths and fits most inflatable pads on the market
Cons
- Must be used with an inflatable pad
Best for: campers who already use inflatable pads
Kelty Camp Chair
Type: legless | Folded Dimensions: 19.5″ x 19.5″ x 1″ | Unfolded Dimensions: 19.5″ x 19.5″ x 17″ | Seat Material(s): 600-denier polyester| Weight Capacity: 330 lbs | Item Weight: 1 lbs 2 oz
This model by Kelty is one of the best legless chairs you can find nowadays. It’s minimalistic, but it works well in practically any situation.
First off, it features closed-cell foam padding, which makes sitting on it comfortable.
The seat fabric is also 600D polyester, which is typically used for outdoor gear because of its durability.
To change the seat angle, you simply adjust the straps as you would do on a backpack.
And when it’s time to pack it up, simply fold the two parts.
The chair also features carry handles for easier transportation.
Pros
- Fabric is made of rugged and durable 600D polyester
- Features closed-cell foam padding for additional comfort
- One of the most affordable picks on this list
Cons
- Not as comfy as most other picks on the list
Best for: backpackers in need of an affordable chair
Crazy Creek Products HEX 2.0 Original Chair
Type: legless | Folded Dimensions: 4″ x 33″ | Unfolded Dimensions: 16.5″ x 15.5″ x 16.5″ | Seat Material(s): Ripstop nylon | Weight Capacity: 250 lbs | Item Weight: 1.2 lbs
Legless chairs don’t seem that comfortable to you? That might be the case with certain models, but it’s absolutely not true for this one by Crazy Creek.
That’s because this chair features a high-density cored EVA closed-cell foam, which improves the insulation and comfort of the seat.
The inner side of the seat is made of 70D Ripstop nylon, which is water-resistant and breathable.
The outer shell is made of 210D Ripstop nylon, which has excellent tearing strength, water resistance, and resistance to abrasion.
You might be wondering – how does this chair keep its shape?
Well, it’s thanks to virtually unbreakable carbon-fiber stays and tight-knit webbing.
However, you can still roll the chair up when not needed, without worrying that will affect its shape when unfolded.
Pros
- Uses very comfortable and well-insulated closed-cell foam padding
- Rolls up to only 4″ in diameter and fits in your backpack
- Fabric is water-resistant and durable
Cons
- Backrest can be somewhat narrow for larger men
Best for: backpackers who spend a lot of time on the trail
Best Lightweight High Back Camping Chairs
Eureka! Tagalong High Back Chair
Type: high back, scoop | Folded Dimensions: 20″ x 7″ x 5″ | Unfolded Dimensions: 33″ x 26″ x 39″ | Seat Material(s): polyester | Weight Capacity: 265 lbs | Item Weight: 3 lbs 12 oz
The Tagalong chair is a great option for tall campers.
The high backrest provides excellent support to the back, with padded suede keeping your head and neck comfortable.
The chair is relatively light for its size, which is mainly due to the aluminum frame which barely adds weight to the product.
The chair legs feature ski pole-tipped legs with non-sink feet for additional stability on muddy terrain.
There’s so much to love about this chair, including the storage options it offers.
At the bottom of the seat, it features a hideaway pocket, which is ideal for storing essentials like a phone or your keys.
On the right armrest, it also features a beverage holder – which is always handy.
Pros
- Ski-pole tipped legs with non-sink feet keep the chair stable on different terrains
- Features a storage pocket and a beverage holder
- Comes with a carry bag for compact packing and for attaching it to your backpack
Cons
- A bit more time-consuming to set up compared to other chairs on the list
Best for: use on soft or loose terrain
Helinox Chair Zero High Back
Type: high back, scoop | Folded Dimensions: 16″ x 5″ x 5″ | Unfolded Dimensions: 21.5″ x 19.5″ x 32.5″ | Seat Material(s): Ripstop polyester | Weight Capacity: 265 lbs | Item Weight: 1 lbs 8 oz
This model by Helinox might weigh just over a pound, but it’s extremely sturdy and has a weight capacity of 265 lbs.
This is possible thanks to the DAC aluminum alloy frame, with poles featuring shock cords for additional stability.
The poles are connected to a hub, which makes setting up the chair a breeze.
As for the seat fabric, it’s made of Ripstop polyester, which is rugged, breathable, and water-resistant.
The backrest features padding around the head area for additional comfort, too.
The chair comes with a stuff sack for easy storage.
To pack it, simply fold down the legs and place it into the sack, which is compact enough to attach it to your backpack.
Pros
- DAC aluminum poles feature shock cords and are connected to a hub for optimal sturdiness
- Weighs over a pound
- Seat fabric is breathable, rugged, and water-resistant
Cons
- Quite expensive
Best for: very tall campers
G4 Free Lightweight Portable Camping Chair
Type: high back, scoop | Folded Dimensions: 16.9″ x 6.5″ | Unfolded Dimensions: 18.1″ x 24.4″ x 38.4″ | Seat Material(s): Oxford cloth | Weight Capacity: 330 lbs | Item Weight: 4.6 lbs
There are several reasons why this camping chair by G4Free is amazing.
First, it has a weight capacity of a whopping 330 lbs, which makes it the strongest chair on the list.
This is mainly due to the frame made of aircraft-grade 7075 aviation aluminum alloy, which is known for its ruggedness and durability.
When it comes to seat fabric, it’s 900D Oxford cloth with double-reinforced V stitching.
This makes the chair even sturdier by preventing fraying and ripping.
The fabric itself is rather comfortable to sit on, too, and the mesh sides make it more breathable.
But it’s worth noting that the backrest features an integrated cotton pillow.
It’s so comfy you can basically fall asleep while sitting in the chair.
Pros
- Has a weight capacity of 330 lbs
- Features an integrated pillow that keeps your head and neck comfortable
- Side pocket allows you to store your essential items close
Cons
- A bit more difficult to set up compared to other models
- Heaviest chair on the list
Best for: campers in need of a chair with a high weight capacity
Our Guide To Choosing The Best Camping Chair
Camping chairs are one of those things that come in different shapes and sizes, so choosing the best one is a tough job.
Here are all the things you should keep in mind when buying a camping chair.
Types Of Chairs
First things first, let’s talk about the different types of chairs you can get.
Depending on the type and length of your camping trip, some of these types might be more or less suitable for you.
Stool
Originally, stools didn’t have a backrest, although today you can find models featuring it.
In any case, these chairs are usually low and feature three legs.
In most cases, they come preassembled and are simply folded down for storage.
Legless
Legless chairs are mainly designed for backpacking. As the name suggests, they only feature the seat and backrest.
The idea is to place them on an elevated surface, like a rock or a tree stump, if used as a regular chair.
Alternatively, you can place it on the floor and turn it into a lounge.
Scoop
A scoop chair is a chair that doesn’t have a distinct back, seat, or even hand rests.
Basically, this type of chair offers a good compromise between comfort and weight.
High Back Scoop
Just like they sound, scoop chairs typically have a low backrest to support up to half of your back.
That might not be a big deal, unless you’re sitting in it for a longer period of time.
However, there are models that have a higher backrest, usually with a padded pillow for better head support.
Pad
Even legless chairs can be too heavy or bulky for certain backpacking trips.
But certain models allow you to transform your sleeping pad into a chair or a lounge.
This type of chair is made of a sturdy but lightweight fabric, like polyester, and features straps that allow you to set the backrest at a desired angle.
Use Case
As you can see, certain chair types are focused on comfort, while others put light weight and compactness as their primary focus.
Choosing between them ultimately comes down to the type of trip you’re going on.
Car Camping
If your gear is stored in your car trunk, weight should not be an important factor while you decide on the best camping chair.
Depending on the size of your car and the amount of gear you have, you might not even have to worry about the dimensions of the chair either.
If that’s the case, then you can pick the model based on other features, with comfort being among the more important ones.
Backpacking/Trekking
If you’re trekking or backpacking, you’re carrying all weight on your back. That also includes the chair.
Most chairs with legs feature metal parts, which inevitably adds more weight and bulk.
However, legless and pad chairs save on weight wherever possible, so they feature as little material as possible.
That makes them an excellent option for this type of camping trip.
Comfort
Let’s be real – a chair needs to be comfortable. Otherwise, you might as well just sit on a rock.
If weight and bulk are not an issue, you can find many models with padded seats for additional comfort.
Many high-back chairs also feature an integrated pillow on the backrest, making the chair even cozier.
Of course, that’s not to say that non-padded chairs aren’t comfortable. Ultimately, it depends on the materials used.
The majority of camping chairs are made of either polyester or nylon.
Between the two, nylon is more durable, breathable and weather-resistant.
However, polyester is more affordable and has better abrasion resistance.
Furthermore, polyester won’t fade in sunlight like nylon or stretch as much over time.
Set-Up & Packed Size
Like any camping equipment, camping chairs fold down for storage and transportation.
Certain models only fold down, which makes setup simple and quick.
However, folding chairs aren’t usually very compact, so they take up a good portion of your storage space.
Some chairs can be completely disassembled, so that they pack down to a small size that can fit inside your backpack.
However, compared to folding chairs, these aren’t so straightforward to put together.
Weight & Durability
Of course, weight is always an important factor for camping. And you’ll notice that most chairs on our list weigh under 3 lbs.
Still, if you’re backpacking, that might be too much to carry on your back, along with the rest of your gear.
The weight of the chair is in direct relation to the type and amount of material used.
When it comes to poles, stainless steel arguably offers the best sturdiness and durability. But it’s also the heaviest material for poles.
That’s why most camping chairs with frames use either aluminum or fiberglass.
These materials are lighter than steel, so they’re easier to carry around.
Between the two, aluminum is sturdier and lighter, but fiberglass is a more affordable option.
Additional Features
While you may not think you need it, even the tiniest additional feature can improve a camping chair’s appeal.
Certain models come with cup holders, which is definitely a handy feature.
Basically, you don’t need a table nearby to hold your drink and prevent accidental tipping.
Another great feature to have is a pocket. Usually made of mesh, pockets allow you to store essentials close by, be it a book or your phone.
Now, additional features usually come with a higher price tag.
It makes sense, as they require more material and improved design (to a degree).
Ultimately, you should decide whether those cool nifty features are worth the increase in price.
FAQs
What Materials Should I Consider When Choosing A Lightweight Camping Chair?
If the chair has a frame, consider models with aluminum, which is the lightest option available.
As for the seat fabric, both polyester and nylon are relatively lightweight, with the latter having a slight edge.
How Important Is The Portability & Packability Of A Camping Chair For Outdoor Activities?
If you’re walking up to the campsite, they matter a lot.
Some chairs fit inside a backpack, but others must be carried separately.
What Are Some Top Lightweight Camping Chair Brands To Consider?
Brands like Helinox and Therm-a-Rest offer a variety of camping chairs mainly designed for backpacking.
Other brands, like REI Co-op and Big Agnes, offer a variety of camping chairs, with some of them falling under the lightweight category.
What Is The Difference Between A Folding Camping Chair & A Backpacking Camping Chair?
While the former simply folds down, the latter can usually be completely disassembled or rolled for even more compact storage.
To Sum Things Up
There are many amazing models on the market, so choosing one of the best lightweight camping chairs is no easy task.
From the Helinox Speed Stool to REI Co-op Flexlite Air Chair to the Kelty Camp Chair, there’s something for everyone’s needs.
Whichever chair from the list you might pick, you can’t go wrong!
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