At the end of an epic day of backpacking, we’d rather sink into a comfortable chair than sit on a rock, log, or the bare ground. The trouble is, many backpacking chairs aren’t that comfortable – and aren’t worth the extra pack weight. That’s why the CleverHiker team researched and tested more than 30 backpacking chairs from brands like Helinox, REI, NEMO, and more.
After some market research, we selected 11 promising backpacking chairs. We defined backpacking-worthy chairs as ones weighing under two pounds. Then we subjected them to months of field-based testing. Gear analyst Jory Brass carried them into the New Mexico wilderness to compare their comfort, packed size, stability, and ease of use. Our picks for the best backpacking chairs include two sit pads, a roll-up chair, two ground chairs, and five tent pole-style scoop chairs.
Are you looking for a big, comfy chair for the campground? Skip the light and packable options below and browse our guide to the best camping chairs.
And for more info, check out some of our other popular gear guides:
Quick Picks for Backpacking Chairs
Sit tight and skim through this quick list of the best backpacking chairs, or sink into our thorough reviews below.
Best Backpacking Chair Overall: Helinox Chair Zero ($140)
Best Value Backpacking Chair: REI Flexlite Air ($100)
Best Backpacking Ground Chair: Helinox Ground Chair ($130)
Best Sit Pad for Ultralighters: Therm-a-Rest Z-Seat Pad ($33)
Best Stability & Back Support: Big Agnes Skyline UL ($150)
Best Budget Backpacking Chair: Trekology Yizi Lite Camp Chair ($46)
Best Reclining Backpacking Chair: NEMO Moonlite Elite Reclining Chair ($180)
Versatile Foam Pad: Gossamer Gear Thinlight Foam Pad ($32)
Cheap & Comfy Camp Chair: Moon Lence Portable Chair ($35)
Best Stool: REI Trail Stool ($60)
Best Roll-up Camp Chair: Crazy Creek Hex 2.0 ($65)
What’s new
The CleverHiker team has been working hard (at sitting) in the newest backpacking chairs to hit the market and comparing them against our go-tos:
- The Helinox Chair Zero passed the REI Flexlite Air for our top spot due to its slight comfort edge and superior stability.
- The Trekology Yizi Lite made our list for the first time and scored a Best Buy Badge from our editor and gear analyst.
- The Helinox Ground Chair climbed a couple spots to claim its first Editor’s Choice badge from Cleverhiker.
- The REI Flexlite Air Stool has replaced the original Flexlite Stool on our list because it’s lighter, more packable, and has a higher weight limit.
Helinox Chair Zero
Best Ultralight Backpacking Chair
CleverHiker Rating: 4.8/5.0
Price: $140
Weight: 1 lb. 2 oz.
Weight Limit: 265 lb.
Seat Height: 10 in.
Pros
- Comfortable back support
- Lightweight
- Compact
- Durable construction
- Off the ground
- Intuitive to set up
Cons
- Price
- Set up / tear down is a bit slow
The Helinox Chair Zero has been at or near the top of our list for years because it’s an ultralight chair that’s relatively comfortable, supportive, and stable for its weight.
For us, the Chair Zero strikes the best balance between weight, packability, support, and stability. It’s one of the lightest aluminum-frame chairs on our list, weighing a smidge over a pound. But it also provides plenty of back support, comfort, and stability for such a lightweight chair. The deep scoop seat is supportive and comfortable, and setup is a breeze because the fabric attaches easily at the corners.
The downside of this chair is the price. With Helinox, you have to pay a premium for premium performance. For us, it’s worth it. You’ll be investing in an exceptional backpacking chair that’s light, comfortable, supportive, and stable – plenty of payoff for just a pound and change of pack weight.
This is one of our all-time favorite backpacking chairs. It also comes in other versions: the Chair Zero L, which boasts a weight limit of 320 pounds, and the Chair Zero High Back, which offers an extended back support plus a headrest. For us, the Helinox Chair Zero is a low-risk, high-reward pick for any serious hiker seeking the best backpacking chair available.
REI Flexlite Air
Best Value Backpacking Chair
CleverHiker Rating: 4.7/5.0
Price: $100
Weight: 1 lb.
Weight Limit: 250 lb.
Seat Height: 11 in.
Pros
- Great value
- Comfortable
- Excellent back support
- Lightweight
- Small packed size
- High off the ground
- Durable construction
- Versatile
Cons
- Limited stability
- Feet dig into soft ground
The REI Flexlite Air is a great buy, thanks to its relatively affordable price, ultralight weight, and solid comfort and support.
The Flexlite Air is our go-to choice for backpacking trips because it weighs only one pound – the lightest classic chair on our list. Despite its low weight, the Flexlite Air doesn’t skimp on comfort or back support. Its scoop seat has kept gear analyst Jory Brass happy for a decade, even though he has chronic back problems. It’s not the coziest chair we’ve tested, but it’s quite comfortable and supportive, especially considering its low weight and price.
The main drawback of this REI chair is its lack of stability. If any chair in the club’s gettin’ tipsy, it’s this one. But that hasn’t bothered Jory – who’s been backpacking with it since 2014. If you pick a level campsite and don’t do anything too crazy – especially on sand and soft ground – the Flexlite Air shouldn’t let you down.
If you’re looking for a high-value backpacking chair that’s both lightweight and supportive, it’s hard to beat this REI chair.
Helinox Ground Chair
Best Backpacking Ground Chair
CleverHiker Rating: 4.6/5.0
Price: $130
Weight: 1 lb. 6.4 oz.
Weight Limit: 265 lb.
Seat Height: 4.5 in.
Pros
- Comfortable
- Good back support
- Good for extending feet in front of you
- Square base is stable on soft ground
- Premium construction
Cons
- Price
- Average weight/packability
- Low-to-ground design isn’t for everyone
The Helinox Ground Chair ranks high on our list, thanks to its comfort and stability.
As its name implies, the Ground Chair sits low to the ground. With a seat height of only 4.5 inches, this design lets backpackers lean back and stretch out their legs in front of them. We’ve found this sitting position to be super comfortable. However, we acknowledge that it’s hard getting in and out of a ground chair. In a world of compact backpacking chairs, the Helinox Ground Chair stands apart for its deep scoop seat with plenty of back support, which feels downright lavish.
Stability is the Ground Chair’s trademark. The unique square base keeps the chair planted solidly beneath us, especially on soft ground. Where other chairs tend to sink into sand, mud, thawed ground, and beds of pine needle litter, the square base and four wide leg pads keep the chair more level and stable than most.
Our only complaints about the Ground Chair come down to weight, packability, and that it is far from free. It’s well below our two-pound cut-off for a backpacking chair. However, its weight is average for this category, and its stuff sack is stouter than most, making it harder to stuff this chair in our backpack’s expandable bottle pockets. This model is also a bit pricey. But, you get exactly what you pay for – one of the most durable, stable, and well-built backpacking chairs out there.
A low chair isn’t for everyone (we see you, tall people), but the Helinox Ground Chair is a stellar chair for shorter adventurers and those who want to extend their legs at camp. This is a stable and comfy chair that will last for years. We recommend it for anyone who loves to lean back and spread out after a taxing day on the trail.
Therm-a-Rest Z-Seat Pad
Best Sit Pad for Ultralighters
CleverHiker Rating: 4.5/5.0
Price: $33
Weight: 2 oz.
Weight Limit: N/A
Seat Height: 3/4 in.
Pros
- Affordable
- Ultralight
- Compact
- Convenient
- Versatile
- Simple
- Durable
Cons
- No back support
- Fairly thin
- Less comfortable than classic chairs
Though it’s super basic, the Therm-a-Rest Z-Seat Pad is an all-time favorite among ultralight backpackers, thru-hikers, and day hikers. When you need a soft place to plop down, the Z-Seat deploys quickly, weighs almost nothing, and offers a bit of extra comfort and protection from the ground whenever you need it.
CleverHiker Founder, Dave Collins, has used this seat for thousands of miles of hiking over the last decade. It’s been his go-to for backpacking trips everywhere from the Sawtooths, Yosemite, and Banff, to the Uintas, Wind River Range, and Mount Saint Helens – plus hundreds of day hikes.
The Z-Seat is extremely lightweight and super convenient to store, set up, and pack away for quick trail breaks, which makes it ideal for use throughout the day. At only two ounces, it’s the lightest “chair” on our list. Plus, it can literally save your rear, since you’ll vastly improve the appearance of (and extend the life of) your pants or shorts by using a pad instead of the ground.
The obvious downside is this pad doesn’t provide any back support, but it does add a layer of softness and a bit of insulation between you and the ground, which is really important on rough trails and cold, wet days. Also, you’ll still be sitting on the ground, a rock, or a stump with the Z-seat on top, so the level of comfort is relative – but we’d still prefer the cushioning and protection it offers over a wet bum.
For how versatile and affordable it is, we view the Z-Seat as a must-have for day hiking, backpacking, and more. Anytime you’re outside and want a bit of protection from that sandy beach, forested trail, or rocky summit, this little pad is a small investment with a big payoff.
Big Agnes Skyline UL
Best For Back Support & Stability
CleverHiker Rating: 4.5/5.0
Price: $150
Weight: 1 lb. 11 oz.
Weight Limit: 275 lb.
Seat Height: 15 in.
Pros
- Supportive
- Tall seat height makes it easier to get out of than other chairs
- Small packed size
- Stable
- Durable
- Wider than some
- High weight limit
- Easy setup with color coding
Cons
- A bit heavy for backpacking
- Expensive
- Set up / tear down is a bit slow
The Big Agnes Skyline UL Chair is our favorite for its tall seat height and stellar back support.
If you want the easiest chair to get out of and sit in, this is our top recommendation. At a whopping 15 inches, the Skyline is tied with the REI Trail Stool for the tallest seat height on this list. Since most backpacking chairs are lower to the ground, we found those extra inches can make a meaningful difference in comfort and accessibility.
The Skyline is very similar in design to the REI Flexlite and Helinox Chair Zero, but it’s much more supportive, a bit wider, and has a higher weight capacity. A slight curve in the rear legs adds a bit of stability, and we like that the scoop-style seat positions you upright without rounding your back or your butt – a rarity for most camping chairs. The result is a chair that feels stable yet cushy.
But at one pound, eleven ounces, the Skyline is one of the heavier chairs on this list and sits at the upper end of our maximum weight for a backpacking chair. It’s also one of the more expensive options we tested. However, it’s very compact and a real luxury for shorter overnight trips and is worth every penny for a taller chair that’s built to last.
This Big Agnes model is one of the few chairs we don’t mind lounging in for a couple of hours because it’s just that comfortable. It’s a durable, well-built choice for backpacking, but we also recommend the Skyline from hanging at the park to the packed dirt around a frontcountry campfire ring.
Trekology Yizi-Lite
Best Budget Backpacking Chair
CleverHiker Rating: 4.4/5.0
Price: $46
Weight: 1 lb. 10.4 oz.
Weight Limit: 220 lb.
Seat Height: 9.8 in.
Pros
- Roomy
- Back support
- Ventilated fabric
- Price
Cons
- Weight
- Lower weight capacity
- Low to the ground
New to our list, the Trekology Yizi Lite is a great budget buy because it performs well in our metrics and is priced well below its competition.
The Yizi Lite sits lower to the ground than most of the backpacking chairs we tested. This is a good thing if you like to extend your legs as you kick back at the campsite. But that also means it’s harder to get in and out of the chair, especially after a long day of backpacking. We found its stability to be average on uneven ground.
The Trekology chair didn’t wow us in any metric, but we see it as a viable budget option for backpackers. The chair’s weight and packed size are slightly below average, but we found its comfort above average. The generous seat size provides plenty of back support and is cozy enough for campfire hangs at night and sipping our morning coffee. For us, the comfort payoff is worth the tradeoff in weight.
Generally speaking, we worry about the durability of lower-priced gear. However, our testing didn’t reveal any red flags with this entry-level camp chair. To our eyes, the cheaper materials affect the Yizi Lite’s weight and bulk more than its durability. It felt sturdy in the field. Just keep in mind its weight limit is lower than most backpacking chairs at 220 pounds.
If you want premium performance, you’ll need to pay two to three times as much. But the Trekology Yizi Lite is pretty impressive for its price point.
NEMO Moonlite Elite
Best Reclining Backpacking Chair
CleverHiker Rating: 4.2/5.0
Price: $180
Weight: 1 lb. 2 oz.
Weight Limit: 250 lb.
Seat Height: 10 in.
Pros
- Reclines
- Ultralight
- All-aluminum (no plastic)
- Carry case doubles as ground sheet
- Stable
Cons
- Price
- Comfort concerns for bigger backpackers
- Smaller seat/backrest
As its name suggests, the NEMO Moonlite Elite Reclining Backpacking Chair has a reclining suspension to boost its comfort for weary backpackers. It’s also significantly lighter than the regular Moonlite Reclining Camp Chair.
This reclining suspension allows us to adjust the seat angle by a few inches – but not as much as we had hoped. In fact, the Moonlite’s reclined position isn’t noticeably lower than other non-reclining chairs. It’s comfortable but nothing special.
The smaller scoop seat is not a one-size-fits-all. Our lightweight gear analyst found it highly comfortable. Our burlier gear analyst felt the chair’s corners digging into his shoulder muscles and hiker’s thighs.
We were all impressed, however, with the Moonlite’s stability and overall build quality. NEMO opted for an all-aluminum frame and unique ball-and-socket attachment points to snap the seat fabric to the aluminum frame. That prevents some teetering and tottering.
Additionally, the chair features a wide base, low center of gravity, and a ground sheet to prevent its legs from digging into sand, mud, and soft, thawed ground. The latter is a nice bonus feature – the ground sheet for the Helinox Chair Zero is sold separately and costs extra. It’s remarkable, really, how stable this chair is, given its low weight.
We like the NEMO Moonlite, but it’s the most expensive model we tested. The reclining suspension doesn’t stand out as much as we expected, but its surprising stability does. Out of the ultralight backpacking chairs we tested, this one is by far the most stable. We especially like the Moonlite Elite recliner for backpackers who mostly camp on sand or soft riverbanks. The combination of the all-aluminum frame and groundsheet adds up to a solid base on soft ground, where several chairs on this list fall short.
Gossamer Gear Thinlight Foam Pad
Versatile Foam Pad
CleverHiker Rating: 3.8/5,0
Price: $32
Weight: 3.3 oz.
Weight Limit: N/A
Seat Height: 1/8 in.
Pros
- Affordable
- Ultralight
- Compact
- Convenient
- Versatile
- Large enough for yoga or sleep pad
- Durable
Cons
- No back support
- Fairly thin
- Less comfortable than classic chairs
The Gossamer Gear Thinlight is a stellar seating solution for hikers who want to keep weight to a minimum. With the largest area of any option on this list, this model is perfect for those who like to spread out when they relax.
This is one of the most versatile pads we tested. The Thinlight is a great sit pad when you fold it up. Having a full-size mat to use while taking breaks keeps your butt and your back out of the dirt so you stay cleaner and more comfortable on multi-day trips. It’s so long that you can also use it as insulation with your sleep system, and it’s perfect for use as a yoga mat to stretch out after miles of tough hiking.
We love this Gossamer Gear model because it’s so useful, unfussy, and handy in the backcountry – there’s no straps, parts, or pieces. We also like that it can be customized to suit your precise needs: if it’s too large for you, consider cutting it down to whatever size you need.
That said, the Thinlight is more than simply a sit pad. It doesn’t offer back support, the material is fairly thin, and it’s undeniably less comfy than classic chairs. However, it’s several times larger than the Therm-A-Rest Z-Seat Pad above – but only weighs a bit more – making it one of the handiest pieces of gear we’ve used when backpacking. The simplicity of this pad is its charm, and exactly why we love it.
The Thinlight Pad is also one of the most affordable options on the market. This Gossamer Gear model is a no-brainer addition to any backpacking kit, whether you’re new to trekking or a seasoned veteran. For less than $25, strap it to the bottom of your bag for when you need a durable and compact way to stay out of the dirt.
Moon Lence Portable Chair
Best Cheap & Comfortable Camp Chair
CleverHiker Rating: 3.7/5.0
Price: $35
Weight: 2 lb. 2 oz.
Weight Limit: 400 lb.
Seat Height: 11.5 in.
Pros
- Affordable
- Supportive
- Stash pockets on both sides
- Comfortable back support
- High off the ground
- Breathable & quick-drying
Cons
- A little heavy for backpacking
- Durability concerns
- Set up / tear down is a bit slow
The Moon Lence Portable Chair is an entry-level camp chair, just lightweight enough to be backpacking worthy for shorter missions. Even better, its price will save you some coin compared to most chairs on our list.
The best part about this chair is how comfy it is. With a deep seat and plenty of back support, this chair offers a relaxing break after miles of hiking in the hot sun. The seat height is higher than most, making it easy to sit down and stand up when your joints are stiff and muscles are weary after a long day on the trail.
The downside of all that comfort is weight. At 2 lbs 2 oz, the Moon Lence Portable is heavier than what we recommend for backpackers. It’s more of a camping chair than a backpacking chair, weight-wise. Its packed size is appropriate for backpacking, but not as compact as several chairs we recommend.
On the plus side, that added weight also allows this chair to claim a high weight capacity of 400 pounds. On one hand, this makes the Moon Lence an inclusive choice for folks of all shapes and sizes. On the other hand, our 200 lb tester bent two chair legs after only a minute of stability testing. Plus, our previous tester noted the stitching and hinge pins showed significant wear and tear after one season of use. Our experiences raise questions about this chair’s actual weight capacity—and its long-term durability.
But for a fraction of the price of comparable models, we don’t expect this chair to last forever. The Moon Lence is a budget-friendly option for campgrounds or backpackers who prioritize comfort over pack weight.
REI Flexlite Air Camp Stool
Best Stool
CleverHiker Rating: 3.6/5.0
Price: $60
Weight: 11 oz.
Weight Limit: 250 lb.
Seat Height: 17.5 in.
Pros
- Tall seat height
- Packability
- Quick setup
Cons
- Below average comfort
- No back support
- Limited stability
The REI Flexlite Air Stool is a lightweight yet useful alternative to a full-fledged backpacking chair. New this year, the Flexlite Air has replaced the original Flexlite Stool on our list because REI’s “Air” version is significantly lighter, more packable, and holds more weight than the OG.
The Flexlite Air Stool stands out as the tallest seat we tested and reviewed. It’s easier to sit down and stand up than with a sit pad or backpacking chair that is close to the ground. We don’t recommend this stool for extended sitting sessions due to its small seat, limited stability, and lack of backrest. However, this stool is wicked handy for trailside rest stops and campsite chores, as it sits up tall and sets up/breaks down quickly.
The biggest reasons to choose the REI Flexlite Air Stool are weight, packability, and ease of use. This stool is lightweight and packable, weighing 4 ounces less than its chair cousin. It also packs down into a skinnier stuff sack that fits in the side pockets of most backpacks than the chair version. Plus, it takes less than 30 seconds to whip out this stool, set it up, and dig into your trailside lunch, filter water next to a stream, or work your camp stove magic.
If you’d like something more substantial than a sit pad – and you’re not hung up on the lack of stability and back support – the REI Flexlite Air Stool may be the ticket to quicker rest stops, lunches, and chores at the campsite.
Crazy Creek Hex 2.0
Best Roll-up Camp Chair
CleverHiker Rating: 3.5/5.0
Price: $65
Weight: 1 lb. 4 oz.
Weight Limit: 250 lb.
Seat Height: 0 in.
Pros
- Convenient
- Versatile
- Back support
- Comfortable
- Durable
- Fast to set up / tear down
Cons
- A bit heavy
- A bit expensive
- Close to ground
- Packed size is bulky
The Crazy Creek Hex 2.0 is one of our favorite chairs when you need a quick, durable, and water-resistant seat to rest down on any surface. It provides a clean and dry place to sit and offers a bit of back support, unlike a basic sit pad.
The Hex 2.0 couldn’t be easier to deploy – simply unroll it, connect the arm rests straps from the seat to the back, and you’re ready to lounge. Whether you need to kick back during a lunch or snack break, want to take in the view from a gorgeous vantage point, or you’re ready to relax after setting up your tent, this model is ready to go in an instant.
The Hex 2.0 is versatile in the frontcountry as well, and it’s our go-to all summer long for a variety of events. We’ve used ours to make bench seating at baseball games more comfortable, brought it along for summer lawn concerts, and we’ve even taken it out on our paddle board to recline while floating.
At almost one and a half pounds, it certainly isn’t the lightest or the most compact option available, but the Hex 2.0 is durable. Thanks to excellent construction, burly nylon ripstop fabric, and carbon fiber stays, this model is built to last for years of use, and you’ll find yourself reaching for it season after season.
This chair also has the lowest seat height on this list, since it’s positioned directly on the ground. For those with mobility issues, sore hips or joints, or folks who want an ergonomic “classic” chair that lets you sit upright and bend your knees, the Hex 2.0 will fall a bit short.
That said, you won’t find a better seat when it comes to convenience, speedy setup, or ease of use. Also consider checking out the LongBack version, which is taller and wider than the 2.0, or the Power Lounger, which offers more coverage under the legs so you can lay back without your feet or calves touching the ground.
Product Comparison Table
| oSort | Product | Price | Weight | Weight Limit | Seat Height | Comfort | Ease of Use | Weight & Packability | Stability | 0 |
Helinox Chair Zero View at REI View at Amazon 
|
$140 | 1 lb. 2 oz. | 265 lb. | 10 in. | 4.3 | 4.2 | 4.6 | 4.2 | 1 |
REI Flexlite Air View at REI 
|
$100 | 1 lb. | 250 lb. | 11 in. | 4.1 | 4.4 | 4.7 | 4.0 | 2 |
Helinox Ground Chair View at Amazon View at Campsaver
|
$130 | 1 lb. 6.4 oz. | 265 lb. | 4.5 in. | 4.5 | 4.2 | 4.3 | 4.4 | 3 |
Therm-a-Rest Z-Seat Pad View at REI View at Amazon |
$33 | 2 oz. | N/A | 3/4 in. | 3.3 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 4 |
Big Agnes Skyline UL View at REI View at Amazon |
$150 | 1 lb. 11 oz. | 275 lb. | 15 in. | 4.8 | 3.8 | 3.7 | 4.7 | 5 |
Trekology Yizi-Lite View at Amazon View at Trekology
|
$46 | 1 lb. 10.4 oz. | 220 lb. | 9.8 in. | 4.6 | 4.1 | 3.8 | 4.1 | 6 |
NEMO Moonlite Elite View at REI View at NEMO |
$180 | 1 lb. 2 oz. | 250 lb. | 10 in. | 3.9 | 3.7 | 4.4 | 4.5 | 7 |
Gossamer Gear Thinlight Foam Pad View at Gossamer Gear View at Garage Gear Grown |
$32 | 3.3 oz. | N/A | 1/8 in. | 3.0 | 4.8 | 4.8 | 4.8 | 8 |
Moon Lence Portable Chair View at Amazon |
$35 | 2 lb. 2 oz. | 400 lb. | 11.5 in. | 4.9 | 4.0 | 3.5 | 3.9 | 9 |
REI Flexlite Air Camp Stool View at REI |
$60 | 11 oz. | 250 lb. | 17.5 in. | 3.2 | 4.6 | 4.8 | 3.6 | 10 |
Crazy Creek Hex 2.0 View at REI View at Amazon |
$65 | 1 lb. 4 oz. | 250 lb. | 0 in. | 3.5 | 4.6 | 4.1 | 3.4 |
|---|
How We Test & Methodology
Over two months, our gear analyst tested 11 backpacking chairs on several of New Mexico’s best wilderness trails. Here’s how we evaluated each one for comfort, weight, packability, stability, and ease of use.
COMFORT
For our comfort scores, we took a load off in each chair after some long days of backpacking and hiking. We took notes on how our backs and bums felt after more than an hour of seat time.
Our analysis also included measuring each chair’s dimensions, noting where backrests hit us, and documenting any discomfort caused by the seat materials, chair dimensions, and poorly placed corners and edges. In the case of sit pads, we compared cushion thickness and noted how well each pad protected against roots, rocks, and uneven ground cover.
We also spent multiple days playing musical chairs – moving from chair to chair every few minutes to compare their comfort side by side. This helped us discern subtle differences in their shape, weight distribution, height, back support, and seating angles. After cycling through all 11 chairs several times, we lined them up from most comfortable to least.
EASE OF USE
Chairs that are fast and mindless to set up in the backcountry rise to the top when it comes to ease of use. We timed how long it initially took us to assemble each chair without instructions and how long it took to break it down and pack it back up in its stuff sack.
Our testing notes included helpful features, such as instructions printed on the stuff sack or chair, as well as features that tripped us up or slowed us down, including bulky hubs and extra stability features. We also noted problems we experienced at our rest stops and campsites, such as a sit pad blowing away or chairs that require more careful selection of campsite locations (more on this in the stability metric below).
WEIGHT & PACKABILITY
To test the weight and packability of the chairs in our guide, we carried every seat into the backcountry on long day trips, weekend adventures, and longer overnight treks. Our tester weighed each chair on a kitchen scale to double-check the vendors’ claimed weights.
We compared the chairs’ packed size by lining them up side by side and then evaluated how well each one fit (1) inside our packs, (2) stuffed in our side (water bottle) pockets, and (3) strapped outside our packs. In the field, we tested how easily the chair could be stowed and retrieved from a backpack, as well as how well it packed alongside our other gear and clothing.
STABILITY
We evaluated each seat in our lineup by setting it up on level ground, soft ground, uneven terrain, and rough rocks to compare the chairs’ resistance to rocking, tipping, and wobbling. Our 200-pound gear analyst leaned forward and backward, and shook his money maker while seated, to put extra stress on the frames and test their limits.
We also compared each chair’s design features, materials specs, weight limits, and frame construction to evaluate its pros and cons for stability. Our stability tests also considered each chair’s center of gravity and evaluated how much the chair’s feet sank into soft ground, which can compromise an otherwise firm foundation to send campers sprawling when they lean the wrong way.
Why Trust CleverHiker
Braving everything from blistering heat to bone-chilling cold, our CleverHiker team has hiked over 1,000 days with sit pads and ultralight chairs in our backpacks. Gear Analyst Jory Brass has some serious gear chops.
He’s been a Gearhead® Expert and copywriter at Backcountry, edits both CleverHiker and Hiking Feet, and has more than 15,000 hiking miles under his belt. Thanks to his bad back, he’s also been using backpacking chairs for 12 years, so he knew what to look for as he tested these 11 chairs at several campsites in New Mexico’s high desert mountains.
Analysis & Results
Sit back and relax while you read on to find out which backpacking chairs are at the front of the pack when it comes to value, comfort, ease of use, packability, weight, and stability.
VALUE
When sizing up the value of a backpacking chair, we weigh performance against price. We’re looking for products that perform well for their price, whether they’re low-priced or not.
For us, the REI Flexlite Air Chair is an impressive value. This one-pound backpacking chair earned our second-highest score overall, costing substantially less than its closest competitors.
If you’d prefer to spend half that much, we like the Trekology Yizi Lite as an entry-level backpacking chair. For the price of many campground chairs, you get a comfortable backpacking chair that weighs less than 2 pounds. That’s a solid value.
Sit pads let minimalists get by spending even less. The Therm-a-Rest Z-Seat and Gossamer Gear Thinlight Pad are small investments that keep our bums drier, warmer, and slightly cushioned as we sit on snow, rocks, logs, and the ground. If you care more about weight than comfort and back support, these ultralight additions to your pack don’t cost much at all.
COMFORT
As a rule of thumb, the most comfortable outdoor gear often weighs a bit more. That holds true with the backpacking chairs we tested. The heaviest chair in this guide, the Moon Lence Portable, was arguably the most comfortable. It’s more of a campground chair than a backpacking chair, weight-wise, but we sure enjoyed sinking into its deep, scooped seat at the end of the day.
The Big Agnes Skyline UL was close behind in terms of comfort and support, but with a weight and packed size that are more palatable for backpackers.
Some backpackers may prefer ground chairs for comfort, even though it’s tougher getting in and out of them. Sitting low to the ground, the Trekology Yizi Lite and Helinox Ground Chair are comfortable seats that make it easy for our gear analysts to stretch their legs after long days on the trail.
EASE OF USE
Overall, we found most of the backpacking chairs we tested easy to use. It took less than a minute to assemble 9 of the 11 chairs we tested, and most of them packed up quickly, too. Overall, however, the sit pads, roll-up chair, and stool were easier to use than the traditional, tent-style chairs.
The Therm-a-Rest Z-Seat Pad and Gossamer Gear Thinlight Foam Pad are as easy as it gets. You simply unfold these pads to provide an instant dry seat on a rock, against a tree, or directly on the ground/snow.
The Crazy Creek Hex 2.0 is a step up from the sit pad. Similar to the Z-Seat and the Thinlight, you simply unroll the Hex 2.0 and place it wherever you want to sit on the ground. The Hex 2.0 is a level up because it has a backrest that secures quickly with two adjustable straps. This way, you can lean/rock back to relax even more comfortably.
We also love the REI Flexlite Air Stool for its simplicity. Unfold the stool, place it somewhere flat for stability, and it’s ready for immediate use with no assembly required. Even though it doesn’t have a backrest, this is a great option for a fast, convenient seat whenever you need a break.
WEIGHT & PACKABILITY
You won’t find lighter, more portable seats than the two sit pads on our list, the Therm-a-Rest Z-Seat Pad and Gossamer Gear Thinlight Foam Pad. If your top priority is minimal size and weight, the Z-Seat is only 2 ounces, and the Thinlight Foam Pad is 2.7 ounces.
The REI Flexlite Air (1 lb) and the Helinox Chair Zero (1 lb 2 oz) stood out among the traditional, aluminum-frame backpacking chairs. They’re not only impressively lightweight and packable but also provide plenty of comfort and back support for backcountry camping. That’s why they rank at the top among the 11 backpacking chairs we tested and reviewed.
STABILITY
Technically speaking, the Therm-a-Rest Z-Seat Pad and Gossamer Gear Thinlight Foam Pad scored highest for stability since they’re thin pads that allow hikers to sit a fraction of an inch off the ground. That being said, these simple foam pads make our bodies do all the work – they don’t add any stability themselves.
If you’re looking to crash in a stable backpacking chair that lets you relax, the Big Agnes Skyline UL is the standout in this guide. It’s almost indestructible with a wide, sturdy base made of aircraft-grade aluminum, no plastic parts, and a weight capacity of 275 pounds. We tried to abuse this thing in our field tests, and it didn’t budge.
We also found the NEMO Moonlite Elite surprisingly stable for its lightweight build. Like the Skyline UL, it has a wide base and high-grade aluminum poles and hubs that limit wobbling. The extended back legs also helped us maintain our balance when we leaned back to recline—a feature not found in other models we tested.
Sitting low to the ground, the Helinox Ground Chair was another standout in terms of stability. The sturdy square base, made with DAC aluminum alloy, not only resisted rocking but also resisted sinking into soft surfaces like sand, mud, and a bed of pine needles.
How to Choose a Backpacking Chair
For us, the key to buying a backpacking chair is balancing weight and packability with the benefits of added comfort, stability, and back support. In other words, the juice has got to be worth the squeeze when it comes to packing “luxury items.”
We don’t want to carry any more weight than necessary, which is why we limited our list to chairs under two pounds. At the same time, we want our backpacking chair to provide a clear upgrade over natural seats, such as stumps, logs, rocks, and the bare ground – no matter what it weighs.
As you consider our recommendations for the best backpacking chairs, please keep an eye on the following features, which differentiate our top picks:
WEIGHT
Every gram counts when you’re backpacking. The lighter and more portable your seat, the less strain you’ll feel on your body. If your top concern is weight, a sit pad is the lightest option on our list.
For backpackers who want back support and to be off the ground, an aluminum-framed scoop seat chair will be worth the added weight. Weight-wise, we consider two pounds the upper limit for a backpacking chair – anything heavier than that tends to overload your pack and will just lead to more fatigue. However, we’re more stoked about the backpacking chairs that weigh closer to one pound. They’re more likely to be worth the added pack weight.
PACKED SIZE
Chairs with slim designs are perfect for long carries by maximizing valuable internal (and external!) space for other gear. That’s why it’s a priority that your backpacking chair can fold or collapse into a compact package. Look for chairs with stuff sacks included to keep components, flaps, and straps in a small and streamlined package. Also, note the width and length of those stuff sacks – any carrying case that’s wider than a 1L Nalgene bottle may be too bulky to stuff into the side pockets of your backpack. We prefer strapping backpacking chairs to the bottom of our pack, but we may need those bottom straps for our sleeping pad as well.
WEIGHT LIMIT
Backpacking chairs generally have a lower weight limit than traditional camping chairs. Before purchasing, ensure your chair’s maximum capacity exceeds your body weight to prevent accidents or structural failures while using it.
We recommend models with sturdy construction and durable materials, so you’ll feel comfortable and worry-free as you kick it. Keep in mind that terrain and conditions can significantly diminish the performance of a chair – for example, chairs set up in soft soil or sand can lean one way or another, placing uneven weight and stress on one support. Be sure to position your chair on level and secure terrain for the best performance.
HEIGHT & BACK SUPPORT
For many, a chair is worth its weight in gold for the luxury of leaning back, staying elevated above the dirt, and kicking out your legs at camp. Plus, a bit of support can be the difference between an uncomfortable trip and an incredible one.
Most backpacking chairs sit relatively low to the ground, but it’s still important to find the right height for your comfort preferences and mobility needs. A higher seat makes it easier to sit down and stand up. Conversely, ground chairs may be harder to get in and out of, but they make it easier to stretch out your legs to get your blood circulating after a long day on your feet.
Higher seat backs offer more back support and are suitable for people who are taller, deal with chronic pain, or prefer to lounge. A simple sit pad might do the trick for minimalists – even though you’re on the ground without back support.
DURABILITY
At two pounds or less, backpacking chairs aren’t as durable as heavy-duty camping chairs. That’s why we recommend chairs constructed from high-quality aluminum alloys and ripstop fabrics. We don’t trust plastic hubs and connectors as much as metal ones.
We recommend looking for chairs with burly stitching and reinforced seams, particularly in high-stress areas such as pole pockets and the seat of the chair. Budget-oriented backpacking chairs also fall short in these areas compared to premium backpacking chairs.
Also, preventative measures can extend the life of your chair, especially if it’s an ultralight. Try to avoid using the chair at or near its maximum weight limit, and never flop into your chair with your full weight to avoid damage. Set up on solid and even ground to prevent too much pressure on one support pole. With a bit of TLC, you’ll get years of backcountry use.
Conclusion
Ultralighters may balk at carrying a 1-2 pound chair into the backcountry, but the best backpacking chairs may be worth the weight. These chairs – from simple sit pads to taco-style and tent-style backpacking chairs – made the cut after months of testing. For many backpackers, their added benefits outweigh the added pack weight.
