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10 Best Backpacking Chairs
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Buying Guide for the Best Backpacking Chairs
Choosing a backpacking chair is all about striking a balance between comfort, weight, and convenience. Since backpacking involves carrying all your gear over long distances, every ounce and inch counts, but having a way to relax at your campsite can make a world of difference. To pick the best chair for your needs, start by thinking about how far you’ll be hiking, how much comfort you want at the end of a long day, and what kinds of environments you’ll be in. If you do more casual, short trips, chair weight and size may be less of a concern; for long or rugged treks, portability will be your top priority. Knowing what to look for in each key feature will help you find a chair that’s just right for your adventures.WeightWeight refers to how heavy the chair is when packed. It's crucial because every added ounce adds up when you're carrying your gear for miles. Backpacking chairs fall into a few general weight ranges. Ultralight chairs are usually under 2 pounds and are best for those who want to travel as light as possible, even if it means a bit less comfort. Midweight chairs (2-3 pounds) offer a balance between comfort and ease of carrying. Heavier chairs might be more comfortable or durable but are usually only suitable if you don’t have to hike far. Choose a weight that matches the kind of backpacking you do: the longer or tougher the hike, the more important it is to go lighter.
Packed SizePacked size is how compact the chair becomes when folded up for carrying. This matters because space is limited in your backpack, and larger items are harder to pack. Some backpacking chairs fold down to the size of a large water bottle, which makes them easy to tuck in or strap onto your pack. Others might take up more room, which is acceptable if space isn’t an issue or if you’re carrying less gear overall. If your pack is usually full, look for the most compact chair you can find.
Setup and StabilitySetup refers to how easy it is to assemble and disassemble the chair at your campsite. Stability is about how well the chair stays upright and balanced, especially on uneven ground. Some chairs snap together with shock-corded poles and take less than a minute to set up, while others may need more steps or even a certain ground surface. Stability matters if you’ll be on rocky, sandy, or sloped campsites. If you value convenience or expect to make camp in challenging areas, look for a chair that’s quick to set up and stable even when the ground isn’t perfect.
ComfortComfort covers how supportive and relaxing the chair feels when you sit in it. This can be affected by the seat height from the ground, the width and depth of the seat, and whether there’s any backrest. Lower chairs with minimal support are lighter but can be harder to get in and out of, especially after a long day. Higher or larger chairs are more comfortable for lounging but are generally heavier and bulkier. Think about how much time you’ll spend in the chair and whether comfort or convenience is your priority.
Durability and MaterialsDurability depends on the materials used for the chair frame and seat. Stronger frames (often aluminum) and tough fabrics (like ripstop nylon or polyester) hold up better over time and can support more weight, but may add to overall weight. Less durable materials keep things lighter but may not last as long, especially if you use the chair a lot or in rough conditions. If your trips are frequent or take place in rugged terrain, lean towards more durable options.
Weight CapacityWeight capacity tells you the maximum weight the chair can safely hold. This is important to avoid accidents and extend the life of the chair. Most backpacking chairs support between 200 and 300 pounds, but you should always check that the chair you’re considering is suited for your needs. Choosing a chair with a higher weight capacity can also mean added peace of mind for stability and long-term wear.