Image: REI Co-op Flexlite Air Chair - Best Lightweight Camping Chairs
There are numerous camping chair options on the market, making it a challenge to find the best lightweight camping chair for your needs. To simplify the process, we have conducted comparisons and tests to determine the chairs that are truly worth considering. Below, you'll find our top picks for the best lightweight camping chairs in different categories.
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 lb
The REI Co-op Flexlite Air Chair is one of the best camping chairs on the market. It combines a lightweight and sturdy frame with a comfortable seat. The chair poles connect to a hub, making setup quick and easy. With its four legs and aluminum frame, this chair provides stability on any surface. The seat is made of durable Ripstop nylon with a water-repellent finish that resists stains. Despite its light weight, this chair can support up to 250 lbs. It's perfect for hanging out around the campsite.
Pros:
- Stable on uneven terrain
- Lightweight
- Moisture- and stain-resistant seat fabric
Cons:
- Nylon may stretch over time
Best for: Hanging out around the campsite
NEMO Moonlight Reclining Camp Chair
- Type: Scoop
- Folded Dimensions: 4" x 14"
- Unfolded Dimensions: 26" x 20" x 20"
- Seat Material(s): Polyester
- Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
- Item Weight: 1 lb 14 oz
The NEMO Moonlight Reclining Camp Chair is a premium camping chair with a sturdy design. Its frame poles have shock cords for added stability, and the plastic feet keep the chair in place on any terrain. Setting up the chair is straightforward, and the seat is made of recycled materials with a comfortable mesh fabric. The chair is seamless, and the edges are bound for additional durability. With a weight capacity of 300 lbs and a lifetime warranty, this chair is built to last.
Pros:
- Breathable and comfortable mesh seat
- Sturdy construction with a high weight capacity
- Lifetime warranty
Cons:
- Higher price point
Best for: Campers willing to invest in 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 lb
The Helinox Chair Zero is one of the lightest camping chairs on the market, weighing just one pound. Its anodized DAC aluminum poles provide strength and stability, while the shock cords ensure a sturdy frame. The chair comes with a stuff sack for easy transportation and compact storage. Despite its light weight, the chair sits 8.5" off the ground, making it easy on your knees. It's an excellent choice for campers with limited storage space and weight restrictions.
Pros:
- Lightweight and compact
- Sturdy frame with shock cords
- Easy to assemble
Cons:
- Not the most comfortable fabric
Best for: Campers with limited storage space and weight restrictions
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
The Klymit Ridgeline Camp Chair is an affordable option that doesn't compromise on quality. The seat is made of 900D polyester, a high-density material commonly used in outdoor gear. The backrest is tall and features an integrated padded pillow for added comfort. The chair also has a side pocket for storing essential items. With its durable construction and 265 lbs weight capacity, this chair is perfect for car camping.
Pros:
- Tall backrest with integrated pillow
- Durable 900D polyester seat
- Side pocket for storing essentials
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
The Helinox Speed Stool is the top choice for camping stools. It's light, packs small, and is super sturdy. The stool features a DAC aluminum alloy frame, known for its strength and durability. The seat is made of polyester with aramid yarn, making it sturdy and comfortable. The stool comes pre-assembled, and its compact size allows for easy storage and transportation.
Pros:
- DAC aluminum alloy frame for optimal sturdiness
- Polyester seat with aramid yarn
- Comes pre-assembled
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive than other stools
Best for: Campers looking for a durable stool
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
The TravelChair Slacker Chair is a convenient tripod stool. It features a powder-coated steel frame for maximum durability. The seat is made of Ripstop polyester, a material commonly used in outdoor gear. With a weight capacity of 275 lbs, this stool is perfect for various activities. It folds down flat and comes with a shoulder strap for easy transportation.
Pros:
- High weight capacity
- Durable powder-coated steel frame
- Velcro closure keeps legs closed when not in use
Cons:
- Bulkier when packed
Best for: Campers looking for a durable and versatile stool
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
The GCI Outdoor Quik-E-Seat offers the comfort of a backrest on a camping stool. The wide, padded backrest provides excellent support, offering comfort for long periods of sitting. The stool features a powder-coated steel frame, ensuring durability. The seat is made of Ripstop polyester, a rugged and water-resistant fabric. It also includes a beverage holder and a storage pocket for added convenience.
Pros:
- Wide padded backrest for optimal support
- Covered by a lifetime warranty
- Includes a beverage holder
Cons:
- Bulkier when folded
Best for: Campers who prefer a chair with a backrest
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
The Coleman Woodsman II Backpacking Stool is an affordable and reliable option. It's a cross between a stool and a chair, featuring a backrest for extra comfort. The frame is made of powder-coated aluminum, providing durability while keeping the weight down. The seat is made of polyester and offers stretch resistance and sturdiness. This stool folds down flat and is easy to store in the trunk of your car.
Pros:
- Folds down flat for easy storage
- Features a backrest for added comfort
- Covered by a 2-year warranty
Cons:
- Heavier than other stools
Best for: Backpackers looking for an affordable and comfortable chair
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
The Therm-A-Rest Trekker Chair Kit is an incredibly light and compact chair option. While it requires an inflatable pad, it transforms your sleeping pad into a comfortable chair or lounge. The chair kit is made of durable Ripstop polyester, and it fits most inflatable pads on the market. With adjustable straps, you can set the backrest at various angles for your preferred comfort.
Pros:
- Lightweight and compact
- Adjustable backrest angle
- Fits most inflatable pads
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 lb 2 oz
The Kelty Camp Chair is a minimalist legless chair suitable for various situations. It features closed-cell foam padding for added comfort. The seat is made of durable 600-denier polyester fabric. The chair's seat angle can be adjusted by tightening or loosening the straps. The chair also includes convenient carry handles for easy transportation.
Pros:
- Rugged and durable 600D polyester fabric
- Closed-cell foam padding for extra comfort
- Affordable option
Cons:
- Not as comfortable as other options
Best for: Backpackers in need of an affordable and compact 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
The Crazy Creek HEX 2.0 Original Chair offers exceptional comfort with its high-density cored EVA closed-cell foam padding. The inner side of the seat is made of water-resistant and breathable 70D Ripstop nylon, while the outer shell is made of 210D Ripstop nylon for excellent durability. The chair features virtually unbreakable carbon-fiber stays and tight-knit webbing for added stability. It rolls up to a compact size and easily fits in your backpack.
Pros:
- Comfortable and well-insulated closed-cell foam padding
- Compact when rolled up
- Water-resistant and durable fabric
Cons:
- Backrest may be narrow for larger individuals
Best for: Backpackers spending extended periods 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 Eureka! Tagalong High Back Chair is an excellent choice for tall campers. The high backrest provides excellent support, while the padded suede keeps your head and neck comfortable. The chair's aluminum frame is lightweight, and the ski pole-tipped legs with non-sink feet ensure stability on various terrains. The chair also features a hideaway pocket at the bottom of the seat for storing essentials, as well as a beverage holder on the right armrest.
Pros:
- Stable on different terrains
- Storage pocket and beverage holder
- Comes with a carry bag for compact packing
Cons:
- More time-consuming to set up compared to other chairs
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 lb 8 oz
The Helinox Chair Zero High Back is an incredibly lightweight and sturdy camping chair. Its DAC aluminum alloy frame with shock cords provides optimal stability. The chair's seat is made of Ripstop polyester, offering breathability, ruggedness, and water resistance. The chair comes with a compact stuff sack for easy storage and transportation. Despite its light weight, this chair has a weight capacity of 265 lbs, making it an excellent option for tall campers.
Pros:
- Sturdy DAC aluminum frame with shock cords
- Lightweight
- Breathable and water-resistant seat fabric
Cons:
- Higher price point
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
The G4 Free Lightweight Portable Camping Chair is the strongest chair on the list, with a weight capacity of 330 lbs. Its aircraft-grade 7075 aviation aluminum alloy frame provides strength and durability. The seat is made of 900D Oxford cloth with double-reinforced V stitching, ensuring sturdiness and preventing fraying and ripping. The chair also features mesh sides for breathability and an integrated cotton pillow for added comfort.
Pros:
- High weight capacity
- Integrated pillow for head and neck support
- Side pocket for storing essential items
Cons:
- 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 come in different types and sizes, making it challenging to choose the right one. Here are some things to consider when buying a camping chair:
Types of Chairs
Various types of chairs cater to different camping needs. Stools are low and usually feature three legs, while legless chairs and scoop chairs offer a compact and light option. High back chairs provide additional support for taller campers.
Use Case
Consider the type of camping trip you're going on. Car camping allows for larger and more comfortable chairs, while backpacking requires lightweight and compact options.
Comfort
Comfort is crucial when choosing a camping chair. Look for padded seats, backrests with integrated pillows, and breathable materials for maximum comfort.
Set-Up & Packed Size
Consider how easy the chair is to set up and pack down. Folding chairs are straightforward but less compact, while disassembling chairs offer better portability.
Weight & Durability
Choose chairs with lightweight materials like aluminum or fiberglass frames. Nylon and polyester are durable and weather-resistant options for seat fabrics.
Additional Features
Additional features like cup holders, storage pockets, or beverage holders can enhance your camping experience. Decide if these features are worth the extra cost.
Remember to consider the specific needs of your camping trip when choosing a camping chair. Finding the perfect lightweight camping chair will ensure comfortable and enjoyable outdoor adventures.
FAQs
What materials should I consider when choosing a lightweight camping chair?
Consider chairs with lightweight frames made of aluminum or fiberglass. For seat fabrics, both polyester and nylon are relatively lightweight, with nylon having slightly better durability.
How important is the portability and packability of a camping chair for outdoor activities?
For backpacking or other outdoor activities where weight is a concern, portability and packability are crucial. Look for chairs that are lightweight and easy to pack down to a compact size.
What are some top lightweight camping chair brands to consider?
Helinox and Therm-a-Rest are popular brands known for their high-quality lightweight camping chairs. Other brands like REI Co-op and Big Agnes also offer a variety of lightweight camping chair options.
What is the difference between a folding camping chair and a backpacking camping chair?
Folding camping chairs usually fold down for easy storage and transportation. Backpacking camping chairs are typically more compact and can be disassembled or rolled up for even better portability.
To Sum Things Up
Choosing the best lightweight camping chair can enhance your outdoor adventures. Whether you prefer a chair, stool, or legless design, there are excellent options available. Consider factors like comfort, portability, and durability to find the perfect chair for your needs. Happy camping!
Note: For more information on comfortable camping chairs, check out our other articles on the best camping rocking chairs and the best heavy-duty camping chairs. Happy camping!