Best Camping Chair: Top 10 Picks for Backpackers

A camping chair is debatably a luxury item when you're backpacking, with recent innovations in making lighter stronger materials, a decent chair that is comfortable and won't weigh you down is finally a viable option. When choosing the best camping chair, factors such as comfort, size, weight, stability, and durability are crucial considerations. In this article, I will review the top 10 picks for the best camping chairs specifically designed for backpackers, focusing on models that can be easily purchased on Amazon.com. From lightweight and compact options like the Helinox Chair Zero to more supportive and comfortable choices like the Big Agnes Big Six, I'll discuss the pros, cons, and features of each chair to help you make an informed decision.

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NEMO Moonlite

The NEMO Moonlite Elite is a reclining camp chair. It is compared to the Helinox Chair Zero and REI Flexlite, with the Nemo chair being more similar to the Helinox in terms of design. The Nemo Moonlite Elite features a carrying case that doubles as a ground stabilizing platform so you don't sink into muddy terrain, which you'd have to buy separately on the Helinox, and the Moonlite has a reclining feature.

Key Features:

• Weight: 1 lb., 14 oz.

• Weight limit: 300 lbs.

• Packed size: 4" x 14"

• Adjustable straps for reclining

• Available colors: red, grey, or blue

• Seat width: 17"

Cons: Some have claimed that it is not easy to put back into the carrying case, and some have also said that the stiffer top corners dig into their shoulder blades.

$165 on Amazon

Redcamp Foam Hiking Sit Pad

The Redcamp Foam Sit Pad is the go-to choice for outdoor enthusiasts seeking comfort and durability in one. Whether you're out for a hike, attending a concert in the park, or just needing a quick seat during a sports event, this sit pad has got you covered. While it is not a chair per se being able to put a cushion on whatever you're sitting on is very versatile and helpful. I like putting this sit pad on the side of my pack while I'm on the trail so I can take a quick rest and at the very least keep my butt dry.

Key Features:

• Weight: 54 Grams

• Weight limit: N/A

• Packed size: 11" x 3"

• Inexpensive

• Available colors: Black, green, or blue

• Seat width: 15.75"

Cons: For as light as it is it doesn't pack down very small, not made of the most durable materials and you may need to replace it somewhat frequently if you're not careful with it.

$13 On Amazon

Helinox Chair Zero Highback Chair

For those who take their seating seriously, the Helinox Chair Zero Highback Chair is a step up from the other chairs, that extra half pound for the high back really adds a lot to the comfort of the chair. Having a place to rest your back after having a backpack on it all day hiking is a big relief.

Key Features:

• Weight: 1.5 lbs

• Weight limit: 265 lbs

• Packed size: 5" x 16"

• Lightest chair with a back support

• Available colors: Black, grey, or White

• Seat width: 19.5"

Cons: Because the high back tapers towards the top, those with a wider frame will find this chair less comfortable than the others.

$180 on Amazon

Helinox Chair Zero

The Helinox Chair Zero is a lightweight backpacking chair that has earned a reputation for balancing low weight with reasonable comfort. This is the chair that made bringing a backpacking chair popular. Adding 1 pound of weight and it's small pack size finally made it a viable option for taking a chair with you.

Key Features:

• Weight: 1 lbs 2 oz

• Weight limit: 265 lbs

• Packed size: 4" x 14"

• Available colors: Black, grey, or White

• Seat width: 20"

Cons:

The thin legs on this chair make it sink in sand and muddy ground. In my opinion the fabric on this chair is not breathable and I don't find it comfortable to sit in for very long.

$150 on Amazon

Klymit Ridgeline

The Klymit Ridgeline™ Camp Chair is a lightweight and comfortable option for backpackers looking for a highback camp chair at a reasonable price. The mesh and fabric on this chair is very comfortable

Key Features:

• Weight: 2.8 lbs

• Weight limit: 265 lbs

• Packed size: 6" x 18"

• Inexpensive

• Available colors: Blue, Green

• Seat width: 21"

Cons: Some have stated quality issues with this chair stating that it broke on their first outing or that it ripped after not very long. It is also heavier than most of the chairs on this list.

Currently on sale for $34 on Amazon

Grand Trunk Compass 360° Stool

The Grand Trunk Compass 360° Stool is a compact and versatile option for backpackers, this stool packs down small and is extremely easy to set up. The Compass gets its not by being able to swivel all the way around for some added convenience and it has a small pocket beneath the seat for a water bottle or other small items.

Key Features:

• Weight: 1 lbs

• Weight limit: 330 lbs

• Packed size: 3" x 11"

• Swivels all the way around

• Available colors: Black, Red

• Seat width: 12.5"

Cons:

This is a very comfortable stool, that being said it does not have a back rest which is what many are looking for out of a chair, the thin legs sometimes sink into soft ground.

$70 on Amazon

Big Agnes Skyline UL

The Skyline UL Chair is designed for comfort and convenience in the backcountry, making it suitable for backpacking trips, short overnights, and as a portable van chair. It is praised for its comfort, stability, and weight. The chair is slightly heavier than some of the other chairs on this list but is often preferred for its comfort and stability.

Key Features:

• Weight: 1 lb 12 oz

• Weight limit: 275 lbs

• Packed size: 3.5" x 17.5"

• Durable

• Available colors: Blue, Aqua, Orange, and Black

• Seat width: 21"

Cons: It is a little heavy compared to other Ultralight Backpacking chairs.

$150 on Amazon

Big Agnes Big Six

The Big Agnes Big Six is Renowned for being a very comfortable camp chair. This chair is the Heaviest chair on this list. Like all Big Agnes chairs this chair is loved because it is very comfortable, is made of quality sturdy materials and the high back of this chair is perfect for taking a load off when you want to relax. I would personally only take this chair on a short hike backpacking due to it weighing 3 lbs. Something else to add about this chair is that you can purchase an insulated cover that slips over the chair and is great for winter camping.

Key Features:

• Weight: 3 lbs 3 oz

• Weight limit: 300 lbs

• Packed size: 4.5" x 21"

• Very Comfortable

• Available colors: Blue, gray, black, green, tan and other patterns

• Seat width: 26"

Cons: This is a chair that is better suited for car camping, it is heavier and packs down larger than all the other chairs on this list but for those who like to camp in luxury that is a price worth paying.

$175 on Amazon

Big Agnes Skyline UL Stool

The Big Agnes Skyline UL Stool is a lightweight, portable folding seat designed for backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts. This ultra-compact stool boasts a collapsible frame that fits into a 12" x 3.5" x 3.5" cinch bag, making it easy to carry on the go. While it is a stool this chair has a noticeable bowl shape offering additional comfort.

Key Features:

• Weight: 1 lbs 1 oz

• Weight limit: 250 lbs

• Packed size: 3.5" x 12"

• Bowl Stool

• Available colors: Black, Orange, and Yellow

• Seat width: 21"

Cons:

This chair sits low enough that at times it is difficult to get out of. Just like all other stools not having a chair back isn't as comfortable for some people.

$100 on Amazon

Crazy Creek Hex 2.0

The Crazy Creek Hex 2.0 Camping Chair is a lightweight and versatile option for backpackers, offering a balance of comfort, stability, and ease of use. This taco-style chair features a high back for added support and a fold-out seat that can double as padding, ground protection, or a minimalist sleeping pad.

Key Features:

• Weight: 1 lbs 4 oz

• Weight limit: 250 lbs

• Packed size: 4" x 16.5"

• Great for on and off the trail

• Available colors: Olive, Copper, Blue, Camo

• Seat width: 15.5"

Cons: Doesn't provide much cushion from the ground, the 15.5" width of the chair is a bit small for most users

$65 on Amazon

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the best camping chair for your backpacking adventures requires careful consideration of factors such as comfort, weight, durability, stability, and packability. Among the top 10 picks discussed in this article, all of which can be conveniently purchased on Amazon.com, you'll find a range of options to suit your individual needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize ultra-lightweight designs like the Helinox Chair Zero or value the added comfort and support of chairs like the NEMO Moonlite Elite, there's a perfect backpacking chair waiting for you.

Remember, the ideal backpacking chair should strike a balance between comfort, durability, and ease of use while remaining lightweight and compact enough to carry on your outdoor excursions. By carefully weighing these factors and considering your personal preferences, you'll be well on your way to finding the ultimate camping chair companion for your next backpacking trip.

FAQs

What is the best option for seating while backpacking?

For backpackers, a small hiking sit pad is an excellent choice for seating as it's ready to use immediately and lacks mechanical parts that could fail. Alternatively, some hikers opt for small chairs or inflatable cushions.

How much should a backpacking chair weigh?

A backpacking chair should ideally weigh under 2 pounds to be considered lightweight enough for carrying on a pack. The Helinox Chair Zero is highly recommended for backpackers due to its weight, which is even lighter than taco-style chairs, and for its added comfort and compact packed size.

Which of these chairs is my favorite?

My favorite is the grand trunk compass stool. I find the fabric on many lightweight backpacking chairs uncomfortable, even without the back cushion this a very comfortable chair that suits my needs.