One of the best parts of camping is gathering around a fire at night to tell stories and share knowledge with friends, whether you’re at a campground or at a concert on the lawn. Three hours of balancing on a stump or log are among the worst possible scenarios. Having a dependable and comfy place to sit is essential for unwinding. This has led to a rise in the popularity of ultralight camping chairs, which provide a comfortable seating choice without adding too much bulk to a camper’s load.
An ultralight camp chair, weighing no more than two pounds and packing small enough to slip in or slip into your backpack, is ideal for those who are backpacking or hiking to their campsite. However, those looking for an ultralight chair to use at daytime events like backyard barbecues and maneuverable games can find chairs in the three- to four-pound weight range. And don’t fret too much about it being too big, too expensive, or too cumbersome.
To assist you in finding the best chair for your requirements, we have compiled a list based on our in-depth comparisons of the best-selling and highest-rated chairs currently available. Please check multiple boxes below.
You may be wondering, “Why to Choose Us?”
The difficulty of finding reliable recommendations for hiking equipment is something we’re quite familiar with, and it’s one of the major reasons we created web nailtravels. We take these guides extremely seriously because we rely on them to help us carry out our dreams of exploring the great outdoors. Here are a few of the many reasons why we deserve your confidence:
- All of our decisions are made on our own and from our own individual experiences.
- We make our income by testing camping and hiking equipment and have spent over 10,000 miles on the route.
- The products we propose have all been tried and tested by us in the field, which is not the standard.
- In order to stay abreast of developments in our field, we often attend trade events.
- Whenever a new product is released, we update our manuals to reflect it.
- When making suggestions, we always aim to do our best, as if they were going to our closest friends and relatives.
We consider ourselves to be in a state of perpetual learning and welcome any opportunity to improve. We welcome your comments, especially if you feel that we have omitted a product or made an error.
Our Top Picks
The 10 Best Ultralight Camping Chairs – Our top picks 2023
1. YETI Trailhead Collapsible Camp Chair
Brief description of the item:
The Collapsible Trailhead Chair from YETI, is This folding chair has been meticulously crafted to provide unmatched durability, hardy comfort, and hands-free transportation, making it ideal for use by the fire, at a tailgate, or at a concert. the best and most reliable camping chair we’ve used. It keeps you in an unstrained upright stance while gently cradling your contours due to its combination of firm support and supple springiness. The lightweight, breathable fabric is a welcome relief on hot days.
When we first saw the price tag on the Trailhead Chair, we were taken aback. Having gotten our hands on it, though, we can say that it is well-made and, if you use it often, well worth the price. The lightweight backpack bag makes it simple to transport, and the lightweight folding design makes it ideal for travel. The Trailhead Camp Chair is the ideal option if you want a durable and comfy seat but don’t mind spending a little more money.
- This fireside, tailgating, concert-going, best-in-class folding chair is designed down to a science for unrivaled durability, hardcore comfort, and hands-free portability
- CARRY BAG INCLUDED - A strong two-strap carry bag you can sling over your shoulder or wear as a backpack
- FLEXGRID FABRIC - Conforms to your natural curvature, eliminates pressure points, and supports up to 500 lbs. of weight
- PACKAWAY FRAME - The lightweight geometry of this crossover frame makes it easy to pack and go
- V UV-RATED - This camp chair won't break down under UV rays. No chipping paint or disintegrating fabric to strength, stretch, and comfort to worry about
AG TO CARRY IT IN INCLUDED – Durable two-strap bag that may be slung over the shoulder or used as a backpack.
FLEXGRID FABRIC – Supports up to 500 pounds, shapes your body’s contours, and prevents pressure spots.
Because of its compact and lightweight design, this crossover frame is ideal for traveling.
This camping chair has been tested to the highest UV ratings and will not degrade in the sun. On the contrary, there will be no paint peeling or fabric deterioration to make you fear durability, pliability, and ease of use.
Product details:
- Color Charcoal
- Brand YETI
- Product Dimensions 10.2″D x 8.3″W x 43.3″H
- Recommended Uses For Product Camping
- Room Type Tent
- Frame Material Alloy Steel
➕ Advantages: include a high weight capacity, sturdy construction, breathable and quick-drying fabric, padded armrests, a backpack-style carrying bag, and a secure cupholder.
➖ Cons: Costs more, is larger, and heavier than competing products.
2. Helinox Chair Zero Ultralight Compact Camping Chair
Brief description of the item:
Chair Helinox Zero Ultralight Folding Camping Chair, The Helinox Chair Zero is a great alternative if mobility is a must. It may be folded into a pouch roughly the size of a water bottle and weighs just a pound. When convenience and comfort are equally important, we even bring ours on hiking excursions. The nylon scoop seat allows for a modest recline, providing back support while yet allowing the legs to stretch out. The Helinox Chair Zero is our top pick if you value convenience and mobility equally.
- Ultralight, compact camping and backpacking chair weighs just 1.1 pounds and packs smaller than a bottle of water (measures 4 x 4 x 13.5 inches packed)
- Lightweight, folding chair frame is constructed from advanced DAC aluminum alloy to provide maximum strength at a minimum weight; holds up to 265 pounds
- Seat and carry sack are constructed from durable, lightweight ripstop polyester that resists harsh weather and UV rays; material is machine washable
- Setup is fast with a single internal bungee cord that assembles poles; assembled chair measures 20.5W x 19D x 25H inches, seat height is 8.5 inches
- Ideal for outdoor activities like camping, backpacking, hiking and biking where weight is critical; manufacturer's five-year warranty
Weighing in at just 1.2 ounces and collapsing to the size of a water bottle, this chair is ideal for outdoor adventures (measures 4 x 4 x 13.5 inches packed)
The foldable chair’s structure is made of high-tech DAC aluminum alloy, which enables it to support up to 265 pounds despite its lightweight.
The machine-washable ripstop polyester used in the construction of the seat and storage bag can withstand extreme temperatures and ultraviolet radiation without deteriorating.
The chair is 20.5 by 19 by 25 inches when fully completed; the seat height is 8.5 inches. The setup is quick thanks to a bungee rope hidden within the poles.
Lightweight and durable; 5-year manufacturer’s guarantee; perfect for camping, trekking, hiking, and cycling.
Product details:
- Color Black
- Brand Helinox
- Product Dimensions 19″D x 20.5″W x 25″H
- Material Aluminum
- Recommended Uses For Product Camping
- Room Type Tent
➕ Pros: Lightweight, compact, Very comfortable, breathable & quick-drying
➖ Cons: takes a minute or two to set up & break down, no armrests, no cup holder
3. Kelty Low-Love Seat Camping Chair – Portable, Folding Chair for Festivals
Brief description of the item:
The Kelty Low-Love Seat Camping Chair – Portable, Folding Chair for Festivals, Camping, and Beach Days is a convenient and comfy seat for two. The sturdy steel frame, thick quilted fabric, and well-made craftsmanship are its greatest strengths. The sturdy construction, though, does make it a little awkward to transport. The convenient carrying case buckles around the chair and wraps across the legs, making it simple to store or transport. You may use the bag to carry firewood or supplies, and you can even spread it out as a tiny ground cover to keep your feet dry. The Low-Love Seat is convenient, easy to use, and well-made wherever sitting is required.
- Camping friendly cuddle couch: low base 13.5 inches off the ground; relaxed, slightly reclining design with room for two (plus the family dog). 42 inches of seating space on Cushioned, insulated, nearly indestructible 600D weight polyester fabric.
- The beach chair standard: you don’t have to be at the beach to enjoy, but if you are, the low loveseat is the perfect way to chill in the surf without getting wet. Sturdy and durable steel frame makes this chair an outdoor chilling staple.
- Insulated beverage holders: Each adjustable armrest includes an insulated beverage holder, with enough space left over for munchies, Marshmallows, or the drink on deck.
- Made to last: quality materials and thoughtful Kelty craftmanship will keep your buns and back warm on cool nights for years to come. Steel framed construction, puppy-proof fabric, and a weight capacity of 400 lbs.
- Padded roll tote storage: no need to labor over lugging this thing around, the low loveseat folds neatly into the included roll tote and can be tossed over the shoulder for simple Transport at 15 lbs Total weight.
The gold standard of beach seating; you needn’t be on the sand to appreciate it, but if you are, the low loveseat is the best way to watch the waves without getting wet. This chair’s steel construction makes it ideal for use in all weather conditions.
Each movable armrest has its own insulated drink container, with extra room for snacks, Marshmallows, or the drink of choice.
Designed to endure, the high-quality materials and careful Kelty construction ensure that your buns and back will remain toasty on chilly evenings for years to come. Weight capacity of 500 lbs, cloth that can withstand the chewing of puppies, steel framing.
Easy transport and storage in padded roll tote; the lightweight (15 lb. total) low loveseat may be stowed away in the bag and carried with a simple throw over the shoulder.
Product details:
- Color Tapestry / Canyon Brown
- Brand Kelty
- Product Dimensions 23.5″D x 44″W x 31.5″H
- Special Feature Portable
- Material Polyester, Alloy Steel
➕ Pros: Large, adjustable, and detachable cup holders; soft, padded shoulder straps; strong, multipurpose carrying case
➖ Cons: Heavy/bulky, no center armrest
4. ALPS Mountaineering King Kong Chair
Brief description of the item:
The King Kong from ALPS Mountaineering is a long-lasting and reliable backpack. This chair is one of the few that can comfortably hold up to 800 pounds thanks to its sturdy build and reinforcements in all the right spots. With the King Kong, your back won’t get as chilly sitting around the campfire at night since the quilted fabric insulates more than a mesh chair would. However, it will not dry fast if it gets wet and may be too hot to wear on very hot summer days. It’s not the lightest or most easily transportable choice, but the King Kong can take a beating and keep on ticking.
- DURABLE 600D polyester fabric over a sturdy powder-coated steel frame, giving this impressive lawn and beach chair an 800 lb. capacity
- CUP HOLDERS in each armrest so you can kick back by the fire or the river in your favorite fishing and camp chair
- MORE POCKETS than your standard folding chair for outside, with a mesh organizational pocket on the seatback and stash pockets on each armrest
- COMPACT folding quad portable chair design for each storage and transport
- CARRY BAG with adjustable backpack straps for taking your outdoor chairs hiking
Comfort and support are ensured by the powder-coated steel frame and 600D polyester fabric.
There are many storage options, including a cup holder and a side pocket, on each of the armrests.
Comfortable chair with a handy shoulder bag for easy portability and storage.
The item’s weight is 13 pounds and its dimensions are 38 inches in width by 20 inches in depth by 38 inches in height; its weight capacity is 800 pounds.
Product details:
- Color Charcoal/Citrus – New
- Brand ALPS Mountaineering
- Product Dimensions 20″D x 38″W x 38″H
- Style Charcoal/Citrus – NEW
- Material Polyester
- Recommended Uses For Product Mountaineering
➕ Pros: Features a high, padded backrest, an adjustable headrest, and roomy side pockets.
➖ Cons: not breathable or quick drying
5. ALPHA CAMP Oversized Camping Chairs Padded Moon Round Chair Saucer Recliner with Folding Cup Holder and Carry Bag
Brief description of the item:
XL Alpha Camp Chairs The Moon Chair is a padded round saucer recliner that folds up into a tiny size for easy transport and storage, making it ideal for interior usage as well as outdoor excursions like picnics, camping trips, and rooftop parties.
The steel frame strikes an ideal mix between practicality and ease of use. The Moon Chair is perfect for outdoor activities like camping and athletic competitions, but it can also be used within the home thanks to its plush padding.
- 👉【Focus on Details】Extra straps on the bottom enhance the tear strength of the fabric and improves the overall weight capacity of 350 LBS. Leg tube with diameter 0.9'', guarantee safety and quality.
- 🚶【Easy to Carry】Weights 13.9 LBS. Folding size: 35.43" x 25.98" x 38.19". It comes with a carry bag for carriage and storage. This chair is good for the lawn, camping, sporting events, outdoor and indoor activities.
- 👌【High-Grade Material】With hammer tone powder coating prevent corrosion and fading. Use a durable heavy-duty steel stable frame, more stable construction.
- 📂【Extra Storage Spaces】Side pocket allows you to store your drinking cup and other personal items
- 🙏【 Guarantee】We want all of our customers to feel ready to take on the day from the comfort of our chairs. This chair comes with 90-days warranty, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee, but if you’re not satisfied, please contact ALPHA CAMP customer service.
At a size of 35.4″ “X 31.5″ X 35.4”, made of long-lasting Oxford fabric, plush padding on the seat, back, and arms for premium comfort both inside and out. Additional straps at the bottom increase the material’s rip strength and raise the maximum load to 350 pounds. A leg tube with a diameter of 0.91 inches ensures both quality and safety.
It’s Light and Convenient to Transport, It’s a hefty 13.9 lbs. 35.43 x 25.98 x 38.19 inches when folded “. A convenient bag is included for transport and stowage. You may use it on the grass, while camping, during a sports event, or indoors.
Top-Notch Stuff, powder-coated in a hammer-tone to stave against rust and wear. Make use of a sturdy steel frame, and build more securely. You may stow your water bottle and other essentials in the handy side pocket.
Features:
- Color Choice: Red, Blue
- Open size: 35.4″ x 31.5″ x 35.4″
- Folding size: 35.43″ x 25.98″ x 38.19″
- Weight: 13.9 LBS
- Weight Capacity: Up to 350 LBS
Product details:
- Color Faience
- Brand ALPHA CAMP
- Product Dimensions 35.4″D x 31.5″W x 35.4″H
- Material Oxford, Stainless Steel
- Recommended Uses For Product Camping
- Room Type Patio Garden
➕ Pros: A small cup holder on the chair side, convenient design, sturdy construction, Durable heavy-duty steel frame, Well padded seat, back, and arms to ensure comfort
➖ Cons: not breathable or quick drying
6. Cliq Camping Chair
Brief description of the item:
Cliq Portable Chair: The Most Successful Crowdfunded Chair Ever. Aircraft-grade aluminum folds out to a bottle-sized outdoor chair in only five seconds. Not only is this outdoor chair lightweight and easy to transport, but it also takes just five seconds to put up. The chair can’t fall over if you accidentally tip it over while sitting in it.
Miniature plastic chairs the size of water bottles, The Cliq foldable chair can be collapsed to practically the size of a water bottle, making it a fantastic portable option for outdoor use.
- Bottle sized outdoor chairs for anywhere: The Cliq foldable chair is almost the size of your drink bottle, making them great folding chairs for outside, as you can take them anywhere conveniently.
- Outdoor chair ready in 5 seconds: Our outdoor chair is not only compact, but it can set up in five seconds. Our tip-proof foldable chair keeps you stable in all environments.
- Built for anywhere: Cliq's foldable chair is super versatile and perfect for all outdoor adventures, or somewhere simple like your lawn. The lawn chair is an essential to add to your outdoor accessories.
- Supportive chair: Our lawn chair has been tested extensively and supports 300 pounds, while only weighing 3.5 pounds. With aircraft-grade aluminum, ripstop ballistic nylon and double seams, our chairs will last a lifetime.
- Useful for anywhere: Cliq's foldable chair is not only just perfect for your lawn - these outdoor chairs are suitable for barbecues, picnics, beach days, backpacking trips, music festivals and concerts.
Foldable and lightweight, Cliq’s chair is ideal for camping, picnicking, or just lounging on the grass. Lawn chairs are a must-have for any outdoor gathering.
In spite of its little weight (3.5 ounces), our lawn chair can withstand 300 pounds of weight without bending or breaking. Our chairs are built to endure a lifetime with materials like aircraft-grade metal and ripstop ballistic nylon with double seams.
Useful for anywhere, In addition to being ideal for use on a lawn, the collapsible chairs offered by Cliq may be taken on camping vacations, picnics, to the beach, on a hiking excursion, or to a performance.
Product details:
- Brand CLIQ
- Color Sky
- Material Aluminum
- Item Dimensions LxWxH 3.4 x 3.4 x 13 inches
- Item Weight 3.87 Pounds
➕ Pros: Compact, portable foldable seat, set up in 5 seconds, aircraft-grade aluminum, 300-pound support.
➖ Cons: not breathable or quick drying
7. GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker Portable Rocking Chair & Outdoor Camping Chair
Brief description of the item:
The high back with headrest, neck cushion, reclining options, and complete leg support of the GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker Portable Rocking Chair & Outdoor Camping Chair makes it a great bargain when compared to comparable luxury chairs. This chair is the heaviest and bulkiest we examined, making it impractical for long-distance travel. This lounge chair may not be the most stylish option, but it will certainly delight those who put comfort first. The Zero Gravity chair is one of our faves for camping or just lounging around the backyard, despite the fact that it isn’t the most portable.
- GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker Portable Folding Rocking Chair
- Outdoor Rocking Chair: Portable folding chair quickly and easily folds flat for simple storage and transportation
- Sturdy powder-coated steel frame supports up to 250 pounds includes padded arm rests and built-in beverage holder
- Quality Construction: Constructed from sturdy powder-coated steel, foldable chair frame supports up to 250 pounds and includes padded armrests, a mesh backrest, and beverage holder
- Patented Spring-Action Rocking Technology delivers smooth rocking motion anywhere outdoors – lawn, patio, camping or tailgating
Folding rocking chair for outdoor use: a convenient, lightweight option collapsible for ease of travel and storage
The cushioned armrests and integrated drink holder of this strong powder-coated steel frame chair provide maximum comfort for its occupants, notwithstanding their weight (up to 250 pounds).
Quality Sturdy powder-coated steel provides a folding chair structure that can withstand up to 250 pounds. Padded armrests, a mesh back, and a drink holder round out the convenient features.
Use it on the lawn, patio, while camping, or at a tailgate thanks to the patented spring-action rocking technology.
Product details:
- Color Indigo Blue
- Brand GCI Outdoor
- Product Dimensions 24″D x 25″W x 31″H
- Style Modern
- Special Feature Cup holders, Armrest, Ergonomic, Foldable
- Material Nylon, Stainless Steel
➕ Pros: It has a high back with a built-in cushion, a reclining mechanism, a soft seat, a sturdy frame, good ventilation, and a fast drying time
➖ Cons: Cup holder that is both heavy and fragile.
8. ALPHA CAMP Heavy Duty Canopy Lounge Chair Sunshade Hiking Travel Chair with Cup Holder Enamel
Brief description of the item:
ALPHA CAMP Canopy Lounge Chair Sunshade Hiking Travel Chair with Cup Holder Strong and breathable Enamel and Mesh construction with a reinforced mesh back. The moisture-wicking fabric of this chair makes even extended periods of sitting much more bearable. Oversize&Comfortable: Dimensions (opened): 36″ x 23.6″ x 53″; weight: 14 lb. This chair’s padded arms and large frame provide hours of relaxing seating. Wearing Shade, To block off UV rays of 50 or more, raise the cover. Offering welcome relief from the sun’s heat on a sunny day.
Relax in the cool outside air and shade. Incorporating more tubes at the base increases the total bearing capacity. A leg tube with a diameter of 0.91 inches ensures both quality and safety. Top-Notch Stuff: Rust-Resistant Hammer-Tone Powder Coating. Make use of a sturdy steel frame, and build more securely. Design Variation: There is space for one 32-ounce beverage and convenient phone storage.
- 🌞Sun Protection: Use the canopy in the up position for 50+ UPF sun protection. Providing you with cool shade in a hot summer day. Enjoy the shade and breeze outdoors!
- 👀Focus on Details: Extra supporting tubes on the bottom improves the overall weight capacity. Leg tube with diameter 0.9'', guarantee safety and quality.
- 👌High Grade Material: Anti- rust hammer tone powder coating for long working time.Use a durable heavy-duty steel stable frame, more stable construction.
- 👉Differential Design: One cup holder for 1 larger 32-ounce drink and a smart storage for cellphone
- 🙏【1 Year Guarantee】We try to make our canopy chair as good as we can. If there is any part missing or damaged, free replacement or refund promised if there is any quality issue.
Product details:
- Color Enamel Blue
- Brand ALPHA CAMP
- Product Dimensions 36.6″D x 23.6″W x 53.1″H
- Material Durable oxford cloth
- Recommended Uses For Product Camping, Lounge
- Room Type Patio Garden
➕ Pros: Canopy design protects skin and eyes from UV rays, Setup is quick and easy to pack into a bag. Anti-rust powder coating for long working time.
➖ Cons: the armrest is close and makes the edge of your knee very uncomfortable
What to look for in the best ultralight camping chair
PRICE
To purchase a high-quality recliner, you need not spend a fortune. However, we have seen that shelling out a little extra money is usually well worth the added comfort, convenience, and luxury. We hope you’ll find the range of prices below helpful in narrowing down on a fantastic chair option within your budget.
Light
The lightweight grade is important for individuals who value portability and those who don’t want the greatest levels of comfort because of the weight and packing size of their camping gear. Because textiles are becoming much thinner and we’re packing packages tiny enough to be worn outdoors — or even pushed into the frame — we’re willing to accept returns on chairs of all sizes. interior – to carry a heavy load or go a great distance. They’re more popular with minimalists and in situations where square footage is at a premium, but their resulting gratifying connections are more suited to camping and daily usage.
Material
The seats of most lightweight rating systems are made of fabric, and their frames fold up for easy transport and storage. These help you sweat more effectively in the summer, but they may be too cold to wear throughout the winter. You may keep warm in the chair by wearing a loose shirt beneath.
To keep warm when sitting in a chair, though, you’ll want to wear a top made of foam and/or a fabric that doesn’t allow air to get through. Keep in mind that the weight capacity of lightweight folding camping chairs is much lower than that of regular folding chairs. It’s very uncommon to see weight limits of 200 pounds, and anything beyond 250 pounds is considered generous. Take caution if you want to draw your dog in while resting since lightweight metals like carbon don’t have high weight limitations.
HEIGHT
The ability to move freely without having to constantly glance over your shoulder makes low ideal for concerts, corporate film screenings, and beach outings. It’s more convenient to use scissors while seated on a taller stool, and it’s also simpler to climb onto (for people with a terrible lead).
COMFORTABLE
The effort put into stowing a camping chair is all for the sake of sitting upright and pleasantly. However, not everyone has the same standards for ease. Some individuals place a premium on having solid support. When you’re up against other players, it helps to have a level mind and know how to do the back.
DIMENSIONS OF PACKAGING | PACKING
Camp seats don’t need to worry as much about weight and package capacity as airplane seats do, but it’s still smart to think about data storage and transmission methods just in case. If you don’t need to transport your camp chair very far and your vehicle has limited room, comfort should be your first priority. Choose a lightweight, foldable deck chair if you’re short on storage space or planning on moving it around often for concerts and beach visits.
Frequently asked questions
Q. What is the lightest camping chair?
Top Pick: Helinox Chair Zero, At 1.1 lbs, the Helinox Zero is the lightest, most portable chair we tested, and it can handle up to 265 pounds of tired hiker mass. And it does so while maintaining plenty of comfort and durability.
Q. could you tell me whether lightweight camping chairs are as comfy as foldable camping chairs?
To put it simply, the answer is no. The addition of armrests, footrests, additional padding, and amenities like tech pockets will cause the chair’s weight to rise over 3 pounds, so if you want to keep it under that limit, you’ll need to go without them. Ultimately, you’ll have to choose between the ease of use and how comfortable you are, which is why I’ve included a couple of more comfy options in the list above. The biggest issue, other than the obvious absence of armrests, is that those of a taller stature may not get adequate back support from the bucket seat design. While not unpleasant, they won’t provide the same level of comfort as a reclining camping chair with pillows and seat cushions.
Q. Is Helinox worth the money?
Our Verdict. The Helinox Chair One earned our award for Best Portable Camping Chair. Though it is not the lightest or most compact camping chair we tested, we found it to be the most comfortable, the most stable, and the most durable of all the compact models we tested in this review.
Q. If I’m not going to be doing a lot of serious backpacking, do I really need an ultralight camping chair?
You don’t have to have one, but you could use it more frequently than you think. The ultralight folding chairs are not only a tenth of the size of a regular foldable camping chair but also very lightweight. In other words, they won’t take up much room in your vehicle, so you may carry them in a tote bag or handbag, or stow them beneath the seat. If you’re going camping with smaller kids who aren’t great at remembering to pack their own stuff, this design also makes it easier to carry many of them at once.
Final Thoughts
We created this buying guide to assist you in locating the finest lightweight camping chairs for your requirements. We’d love to hear from you if you have any more inquiries or recommendations. Join the discussion in our online communities by subscribing to our newsletter and then visiting our Facebook and Instagram sites.
Share this lesson on social media if you found it useful, and give us a five-year high score by clicking the heart icon in the bottom right corner of the page. If you’re looking for the best prices on hiking gear, then check out the recommendations in the surviving guide
wish you All the best, and thanks for reading!
