Reviews You Can Rely On

The Best Backpacking Chairs of 2026

We tested 13 backpacking chairs from Helinox, Big Agnes, Crazy Creek, Nemo, and others to find the lightest weight and most comfy options for your backcountry travels
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Best Backpacking Chair Review
Credit: Jason Wanlass
Jason Wanlass
By Jason Wanlass ⋅ Review Editor  ⋅  Updated September 28, 2026

You could sit on a rock or a stump, but sometimes you want some creature comforts when you're out in nature. Backpacking chairs offer a lightweight and portable seat that you can tote into the backcountry to keep your bum off the ground.

The Big Agnes Skyline UL is comfortable, stable, and weighs under two pounds. Though it's not the lightest chair we tested, we think extra ounces can be worth carrying.

If you don't mind sitting on the ground, we love the Crazy Creek Hex 2.0. It's lightweight enough for backpacking, fairly packable, and we take ours everywhere (one staff member keeps hers in the trunk of her car for impromptu sits just about anywhere).

If you want to go super minimal, the Therm-a-Rest Z Seat is a simple foam pad that goes right on the ground (no backrest, though).

Since 2011, we've tested around more than 40 different backpacking chairs. This review compares 13 of the top models available today. We evaluated each seat on its comfort, stability, and how easy it is to set up and pack away. If weight doesn't matter because you're not straying far from the car, we've also tested comfy camping chairs.

Editor's Note: We updated our backpacking chair review on September 28, 2026, after retesting a few of our favorites and adjusting our award winners.

Quick Picks

Here's a quick list of our favorite Backpacking Chair recommendations.
Thumbnail photo of Big Agnes Skyline UL
Best Overall Backpacking Chair
Big Agnes Skyline UL
Thumbnail photo of Crazy Creek Hex 2.0
Best Reclining Seat for Ground Dwellers
Crazy Creek Hex 2.0
Thumbnail photo of Moon Lence Backpacking Chair
Best Bang for the Buck
Moon Lence Backpacking Chair
Thumbnail photo of Therm-a-Rest Z Seat
Best Choice for Minimalists
Therm-a-Rest Z Seat
Thumbnail photo of Big Agnes Skyline UL Stool
Best Backpacking Stool
Big Agnes Skyline UL Stool
Thumbnail photo of Big Agnes Big Six
A Larger and Comfier Option for Base Camp
Big Agnes Big Six

The Best Backpacking Chairs


Full results from testing 13 top products are in our Product Comparison Table and Analysis & Test Results sections.

Best Overall Backpacking Chair


Big Agnes Skyline UL


74
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Comfort 9.0
  • Size and Weight 5.0
  • Stability 8.0
  • Ease of Use 7.0
PROS
Comfortable
Tough
High weight limit
Hubless frame
Stable
CONS
A bit more time-consuming to set up
A tad heavy

The Big Agnes Skyline UL is our favorite chair because it's comfortable, strong, and full-bodied. It's a little heavier than some of the chairs in our lineup, but with this added weight comes incredible stability. The deep-pocket seat means that it's comfortable to sit with your legs in a variety of positions, and your backside won't slide forward. This chair encouraged better posture than most of the other chairs we've tested. It also kept our backs in a straighter, less curled position. Its unique bent leg design creates a wider base and seat while keeping the packed profile slim. These attributes make it one of the most well-rounded chairs we tested.

SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight 29.0 oz
Measured Packed Size 17"L x 4.0"W x 3.5"H
Listed Maximum Weight Capacity 275 lbs
Main Material High-tenacity Robic nylon with polyester ripstop and waterproof UTS coating, aluminum frame
Measured Seat Height (Ground to Butt) 10 in
Compared to the lightest model, the Skyline UL chair is noticeably heavier, so if you're ultra-conscious about going ultralight, its 29 ounces may be too much weight. We also found that the space-saving hubless pole design takes slightly more time to assemble than the hubbed pole models. But overall, you can't beat the luxury of this seat at the end of a long day. If you want to stay with the same basic design as the Skyline UL, but you're looking to shave off some weight, try the REI Co-op Flexlite Air or Helinox Chair Zero LT; both are smaller and lighter (although they don't hold as much weight). If you don't need a backrest, Big Agnes makes a stool version of the Skyline UL.

Read more: Big Agnes Skyline UL review

This chair is comfortable, so you can still sit for hours and enjoy the scenery when the fish aren't biting.   Credit: Jason Wanlass

Best Reclining Seat for Ground Dwellers


Crazy Creek Hex 2.0


73
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Comfort 7.0
  • Size and Weight 6.5
  • Stability 9.0
  • Ease of Use 7.5
PROS
Super tough
Easy to set up
Stable and well-balanced
Good for the back
CONS
Not off the ground
More difficult to plop into
Slightly heavier and larger

Hear us out. Just give the Crazy Creek Hex 2.0 a try, and you'll see exactly why we feel this chair takes the concept of “kicking back at camp” to a whole new level. A common complaint from backpackers is the lack of true support for the upper and lower back — not the case with the Crazy Creek. For such a simple design, this chair performs like a champ, allowing you to recline (with your legs out straight) for hours. The Hex 2.0's clamshell design literally counterbalances your body weight — like a teeter-totter — so your back and shoulders can completely relax as you chill the night away. You can even use it like a rocking chair. This seat is built from solid materials and is made to last. Some of our testing crew have used theirs for close to a decade.

SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight 19.3 oz
Measured Packed Size 16" L.x 3"W x 4"H
Listed Maximum Weight Capacity 250 lbs
Main Material 210-denier ripstop nylon with PFAS-free DWR
Measured Seat Height (Ground to Butt) 0 in
The Hex 2.0 can be set up in just a few seconds. It's also stable, adjustable, and super comfortable. However, some of our testers didn't like that it sits directly on the ground, so if that's not your thing, this likely isn't the chair for you. We tested two versions of the Crazy Creek. The original size weighs about 19.3 ounces, while the Longback version has an extended back and weighs around 23.3 ounces. Both models are a little heavier than the lightest chairs we've tested, but the majority of our crew say they would gladly carry a few more ounces in order to benefit from this chair's luxury. If you don't mind sitting on the ground and you're looking to cut weight, we think you should take a look at the minimalist and ultralight Therm-a-Rest Z Seat or the NEMO Chipper.

Read more: Crazy Creek Hex 2.0 review

Breaking trail with our Crazy Creek. This thing sets up in seconds and lets you chill for hours without having to hunch over or put unnecessary pressure on your legs or back. The green version is the Original, while the blue one shown is the Longback model.   Credit: Jason Wanlass

Best Bang for the Buck


Moon Lence Backpacking Chair


63
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Comfort 7.0
  • Size and Weight 5.0
  • Stability 7.0
  • Ease of Use 6.0
PROS
Inexpensive
Convenient pockets
Good seat depth
CONS
Challenging to pack up
Stiff fabric

The Moon Lence Backpacking Chair is a value pick that outperforms its price point. It has a well-defined bucket seat that makes it lounge-worthy but not so deep that it's hard to get out of it. The square base is also stable enough that we weren't worried about it tipping over. “I liked having the side pockets for storing my phone or sunglasses,” our tester remarked. In terms of performance, this chair stacks up well for its price point, and we like it best for car camping trips where we're short on space.

SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight 38.6 oz
Measured Packed Size 13.0"L x 4.5"W x 5.5"H
Listed Maximum Weight Capacity 400 lbs
Main Material 900D Oxford ballistic nylon
Measured Seat Height (Ground to Butt) 8 in
Unfortunately, we have some questions about the longevity of this chair. The seat fabric is stiff, resulting in several pressure points over time. Attaching the seat fabric to the aluminum frame also requires some finesse. Moreover, this chair is really gangly. It features a lot of short tube segments, and the legs are particularly difficult to fold up and pack away. It's also heavy — probably too heavy to want to schlep very far into the backcountry. Despite these complaints, this chair is a solid budget pick for casual adventures. You may also want to take the time to compare the Moon Lence to the Marchway Lightweight Portable and the REI Co-op Flexlite Air.

Read more: Moon Lence Backpacking Chair review

Pockets and ventilation: cool and cooling features that earned the Moon Lence some extra props from our team.   Credit: Jason Wanlass

Best Choice for Minimalists


Therm-a-Rest Z Seat


67
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Comfort 2.0
  • Size and Weight 10.0
  • Stability 10.0
  • Ease of Use 9.0
PROS
Highly durable
Ultralight
Insulated
Inexpensive
CONS
No backrest
Requires sitting on the ground

Though 2 ounces could be a dealbreaker to some hikers, the vast majority of even the most ultralight backpackers are willing to add the minuscule weight of the Therm-a-Rest Z Seat to their kits. It's hard to pass up this kind of versatility — this foam pad can act as your seat, sleeping pad extension, pack cushion, and more. Add in the fact that there is zero setup involved and that these seats are known to last for decades, and you've got a winner.

SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight 1.8 oz
Measured Packed Size 13.0"L x 2.5"W x 2.5"H
Listed Maximum Weight Capacity N/A
Main Material Cross-linked polyethylene
Measured Seat Height (Ground to Butt) 0.5 in
We should point out that this isn't really a chair, per se — you are still basically sitting on the ground. If you find getting up off the ground difficult and uncomfortable, this seat isn't the best fit for your needs. But if you want a dry, warm spot to park your rear without adding more than a couple of ounces to your packs, this may be your best bet. The NEMO Chipper is a similar option, but it weighs nearly twice as much.

Read more: Therm-a-Rest Z Seat review

Don't blink or you may miss how quickly the Z Seat is to set up and tear down.   Credit: Jason Wanlass

Best Backpacking Stool


Big Agnes Skyline UL Stool


69
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Comfort 6.0
  • Size and Weight 7.0
  • Stability 8.0
  • Ease of Use 7.5
PROS
Stable even without a backrest
High seat height
Comfortable
Light and compact
CONS
No backrest for reclining

The Big Agnes Skyline UL Stool incorporates a modern backpacking chair design into stool form. The wide, scooped seat offers plenty of support and space for your rear, unlike some of the small tripod stools that have the unfortunate appearance of being swallowed up. The wide, 4-legged design with hubless poles enables this seat to be comfortable, stable, compact, and one of the lightest we tested.

SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight 19.0 oz
Measured Packed Size 12.5" W x 3"W x3"H
Listed Maximum Weight Capacity 250 lbs
Main Material High-tenacity Robic nylon ripstop, waterproof PFAS-free UTS coating, aluminum frame
Measured Seat Height (Ground to Butt) 12 in
Due to the nature of the stool design, there is no backrest, so reclining is not an option. Still, our testers were surprised by how comfortable this model was to sit on. For an elevated sitting spot from which you can cook dinner, share a snack, or take in the sunset, we are stunned by how much we enjoy the Skyline UL Stool. That said, if a lack of back support is a dealbreaker for you, consider the Big Agnes Skyline UL, which is the chair version of this stool.

Read more: Big Agnes Skyline UL Stool review


A Larger and Comfier Option for Base Camp


Big Agnes Big Six


Deal Alert: on sale for 25% off at REI
See Deal
PROS
Deep comfortable seat
Tall
Headrest
Spacious
CONS
Pricey
Heavy and bulky

Backpackers willing to put in extra work for extra comfort will rejoice when discovering the Big Agnes Big Six chair. The spacious seat is wide and tall and offers a high enough back for a headrest, a feature not found on any other chair this compact and lightweight. Its size is enormous for the small 5.5" x 5.5" x 21.5" bundle it makes when packed up, and the comfort it offers may even encourage you to take a catnap. This is a great option for anyone looking for a camp chair that packs down small but offers tons of comfort.

SPECIFICATIONS
Measured Weight 51.0 oz
Measured Packed Size 21.5"L x 5.5"W x 5.5"H
Listed Maximum Weight Capacity 300 lbs
Main Material High-tenacity Robic nylon with polyester ripstop and waterproof UTS coating, aluminum frame
Measured Seat Height (Ground to Butt) 12 in
The Big Agnes Big Six hubless pole design is great for increasing stability and reducing bulk, but setup requires a bit of effort. It's also substantially heavier than the superlight models on the market. If you're the type who is willing to haul an extra pound or two to improve your camp amenities, the Big Six offers unmatched comfort wrapped up in a reasonably small travel size. If you want a lighter option without going the foam pad route, the lightweight Helinox Chair Zero LT can lighten your pack without completely sacrificing comfort. We also think you should consider the Big Agnes Skyline UL.

Read more: Big Agnes Big Six review

We used our Big Six for shorter trips and basecamps and absolutely loved its roomy comfort.   Credit: Jason Wanlass

Product Comparison Table


Displaying 1 - 13 (scroll right to see all products)
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#2
Compare:
crazy creek hex 2.0
#3
Compare:
big agnes big six
#6
Compare:
therm-a-rest z seat
#8
Compare:
backpacking chair
#10
Compare:
backpacking chair
#12
Compare:
backpacking chair
Awards Editors' Choice Award
Best Overall Backpacking Chair
Editors' Choice Award
Best Reclining Seat for Ground Dwellers
 Top Pick Award
Best Backpacking Stool
 Top Pick Award
Best Choice for Minimalists
  Best Buy Award
Best Bang for the Buck
    
Price $200 List
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$70 List
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$250 List
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$150 List
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$160 List
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$35 List
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$190 List
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$25 List
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$40 List
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$140 List
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$100 List
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Overall Score Sort Icon
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Bottom Line An excellent combination of comfort, weight, and stability for your next backcountry excursionA true lounger that lets you lean back and chill for as long as you wantPart backpacking chair, part car camping chair, this seat is tall, wide, and comfyIf all you need is a simple place to plop your rear, this stool will do the trickA good pick because it's light, breathable, comfy, and reasonably toughA featherweight, versatile, and durable foam seat even ultralighters won't leave at homeThis super-engineered chair is both strong and comfortable, and it reclinesThis ultralight twist on a classic egg crate sit pad is made from recycled bits of other camping productsA bargain basement backpacking chair with a wide seat and comfortable recline angleA low-hanging backpacking chair with solid comfort and breathable mesh sidesNowhere near our first choice for backpacking, but it's a great low-cost, sturdy option for the beach, camping, or hanging by the lakeThis super simple chair is an inexpensive option when all you need is to keep yourself off of the groundThis chair's lightweight design and reasonable price make it a good choice for ounce-counting adventurers
Pros Deep comfortable seat, lightweight, surprisingly stable, unique interlocking frameVery stable, great back support, durable fabrics, carefree lounging, easy setup, great priceComfortable, spacious, tall back, accessible heightPacks up small, wide and stable, comfortable seat, durableLightweight, extra stabilizing strap, breathable, easy to assembleVery durable, weighs less than toothpaste, easy setup, versatile, insulated, inexpensiveWell-engineered, reclines, good on unstable or soft ground, great style, fairly lightweightInexpensive, recycled material, lightweight, each one uniqueInexpensive, comfortable, two side pockets, integrated breathable mesh, nice carrying case, fairly easy setupLightweight, comfortable, durableSits high above the ground, great price, locking frame, breathable material, stable, wide, impressive max weight, sturdy, built-in pocket, lots of available colorsInexpensive, lightweight, easy setupLightweight, reasonably priced, easy setup
Cons Complicated setup, a little heavySits on the ground, a little heavier, slightly larger packed size, harder to get into and out ofExpensive, heavy, bulky, takes more time to set upPricey, no support for your backMore fragile, pushes against the hamstringsNo backrest, requires sitting on the ground, smallExpensive, may be a little too compact for someDifficult to sit/get up from ground, blows away in wind if not sitting on itWobbly, heavy, longer breakdown time, questionable durability over timeTakes force to stretch seat over poles, expensive, gangly to pack upToo heavy, large packed size, longer setup, seat is s little shallowUncomfortable, narrow basePoor stability, small base, less comfortable
Rating Categories  Big Agnes Skyline UL Crazy Creek Hex 2.0 Big Agnes Big Six Big Agnes Skyline UL... Helinox Zero LT Therm-a-Rest Z Seat Nemo Moonlite Elite... NEMO Chipper Moon Lence Helinox Ground Marchway Lightweight... REI Co-op Trail Stool REI Co-op Flexlite Air
Comfort (40%)
9.0
7.0
9.5
6.0
7.5
2.0
6.0
2.0
7.0
7.0
6.5
4.0
4.0
Size and Weight (30%)
5.0
6.5
3.0
7.0
8.0
10.0
7.0
9.5
5.0
6.5
2.0
8.0
8.0
Stability (20%)
8.0
9.0
9.0
8.0
3.5
10.0
7.0
10.0
7.0
4.0
9.0
3.0
2.0
Ease of Use (10%)
7.0
7.5
6.0
7.5
7.0
9.0
8.0
9.0
6.0
6.0
6.0
9.0
7.0
Specifications Big Agnes Skyline UL Crazy Creek Hex 2.0 Big Agnes Big Six Big Agnes Skyline UL... Helinox Zero LT Therm-a-Rest Z Seat Nemo Moonlite Elite... NEMO Chipper Moon Lence Helinox Ground Marchway Lightweight... REI Co-op Trail Stool REI Co-op Flexlite Air
Measured Weight 29.0 oz 19.3 oz 51.0 oz 19.0 oz 16.6 oz 1.8 oz 21.6 oz 3.3 oz 38.6 oz 23.7 oz 43.6 oz 17.0 oz 16.9 oz
Measured Packed Size 17"L x 4.0"W x 3.5"H 16" L.x 3"W x 4"H 21.5"L x 5.5"W x 5.5"H 12.5" W x 3"W x3"H 13.5" W x 4"W x4"H 13.0"L x 2.5"W x 2.5"H 13.0"L x 4.0"W x 4.0"H 12.5"L x 4.0"W x 2.5"H 13.0"L x 4.5"W x 5.5"H 11.8"L x 4.3"W x 4.3"H 14.8"L x 4.0"W x 5.5"H 22"L x 4.0"W x 4.0"H 14.3"L x 4.5"W x 4.5"H
Listed Maximum Weight Capacity 275 lbs 250 lbs 300 lbs 250 lbs 265 lbs N/A 250 lbs N/A 400 lbs 265 lbs 330 lbs 200 lbs 250 lbs
Main Material High-tenacity Robic nylon with polyester ripstop and waterproof UTS coating, aluminum frame 210-denier ripstop nylon with PFAS-free DWR High-tenacity Robic nylon with polyester ripstop and waterproof UTS coating, aluminum frame High-tenacity Robic nylon ripstop, waterproof PFAS-free UTS coating, aluminum frame Ghostgrid translucent monofilament grid ripstop Cross-linked polyethylene Seat: Recycle polyester mesh TPU, bluesign-certified, Suspension: HTP and Dyneema cords Reclaimed, remolded polyethylene foam 900D Oxford ballistic nylon Recycled 300D polyester and 50D polyester monofilament mesh, DAC aluminum alloy frame, bluesign-certified High-density ripstop polyester 200D ripstop polyester with polyurethane coating Ripstop nylon with aluminum frame
Measured Seat Height (Ground to Butt) 10 in 0 in 12 in 12 in 10 in 0.5 in 11 in 0 in 8 in 4 in 10.8 in 15 in 7.5 in
Legs Yes No Yes Yes Yes No Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Measured Seat Width (At Edge) 19.0 in 16.0 in 21.0 in 20.0 in 19.5 in 16.0 in 16.0 in 17.0 in 21.0 in 20.0 in 21.0 in 12.0 in 19.5 in
Measured Base Size (Width x Depth) 15.5" W x 13.5" D 16" W x 14" D 18.0"W x 16.0"D 14.0"W x 11.0"D 14.0"W x 11.0"D 16.0"W x 12.5"D 16.0"W x 9.5"D 12.8"W x 16.5"D 15.0"W x 15.0"D 20.0"W x 17.3"D 18.0"W x 15.0"D 12.0"W x 12.0"D 9.0"W x 11.0"D
Features Hub-less pole design Attached roll-up strap, hanging loop Color-coded frame, hub-less pole design, head rest 4 legged stool, color-coded frame, hub-less pole design, self-equalizing center pole helps level chair on uneven ground Attachable x-strap stability enhancer Clip loop Reclines, seamless seat design, attachable base, roll up 100% reclaimed foam remnants, ultralight, egg carton mould, removable loop for lashing Two storage pockets, carry bag Carry bag Sturdy carrying case, locking frame, side pocket Carrying strap Hubbed pole design, stuff sack


backpacking chair - the perfect backpacking chair is going to depend on your priorities...
The perfect backpacking chair is going to depend on your priorities, but for us, it's one that is comfortable and compact enough to strap on the side of a pack.   Credit: Elizabeth Paashaus

How We Tested


We start each of our reviews with market research, which yielded an initial selection of several dozen contenders for our backpacking chairs. From there, we purchased the most promising models and tested them for several weeks. Over the years, we have tested more than 40 chairs and used them on everything from rocky cliff bases to desert sand to city parks. We assess each model's comfort during an extended sit, the effort required for setup and breakdown, their sizes and weights, and how stable they feel on different surfaces. You'll find this review helpful in narrowing down your options in a market full of excellent chairs.

Scores for each backpacking chair are weighted across four rating metrics:
  • Comfort (40% of overall score weighting)
  • Size and Weight (30% weighting)
  • Stability (20% weighting)
  • Ease of Use (10% weighting)

Why Trust GearLab


Jason Wanlass has spent the last 25 years of his life exploring the outdoors. He's an avid hiker and backpacker who has completed routes in Iceland, Nepal, Tibet, France, Switzerland, Slovenia, Italy, and the Patagonia Region of Argentina and Chile. Closer to home, he hikes weekly in the foothills above his home in Utah and has backpacked trails in nearly every Western state. Jason knows a thing or two about gear and the value that a camp chair can add to any backcountry adventure.

Backpacking enthusiast Elizabeth Paashaus has spent hundreds of mornings, evenings, and lunch breaks seated on the ground, which is enough to appreciate the comfort afforded by a lightweight camp chair. She has backpacked thousands of miles through the Appalachian mountains, the deserts of Southern Utah, and the high Sierra, both alone and with her husband and two girls. Elizabeth and her family can be found traveling the country, living in their converted school bus, seeking adventure through climbing and hiking, and enjoying our public lands as their outdoor living room.

Ben Applebaum-Bauch is also an avid backpacker. He has spent hundreds of evenings in backcountry and front country campsites, parking himself on all sorts of seating. After 7,000 miles on some of America's most iconic long trails, he knows what to look for when it comes to ideal seat selection.

We tested all of the gear in our review — and we had fun doing it. Then, we compare each model side by side to see which is best.   Credit: Jason Wanlass

Analysis and Test Results


With so many backpacking chairs on the market, how do you pick the right one? In this article, we've identified the four most important qualities to look for in a chair. We rate each seat on its comfort throughout 30 minutes of lounging, its size and how much it weighs, its overall stability when getting in and out, and its ease of use. We weight metrics accordingly based on our experience of what is most important in a backpacking chair, with comfort being at the top of that list, followed by size and weight, stability, and, finally, ease of use.

Worse Value
Better Value

What's the Best Value?


Our team defines “value” as the meeting point between performance and price. The Moon Lence Backpacking Chair stands out for being comfortable, stable, and easy to use, with a low price point. However, it's not lightweight, and if you want to tote it in your backpacking pack, it's about three pounds. The Marchway Lightweight Portable is another low-cost chair, but it's about five ounces heavier than the Moon Lence.

backpacking chair - the moon lence is an affordable chair that offers some comfort and...
The Moon Lence is an affordable chair that offers some comfort and stability, but you may not want to tote it far on your back.   Credit: Jason Wanlass

The Crazy Creek Hex 2.0 is one of our favorite chairs, and it can be snagged for around $70. Some of our testers and staff have used Crazy Creek's ground chairs for years, so we know they hold up. They're fairly light and packable, and are great for backpacking where you're probably cooking on the ground or a low rock, so sitting close to the ground is actually helpful.

Sometimes, the simplest answer can be the right one. The Therm-a-Rest Z Seat and the Nemo Chipper are both just a basic piece of egg-carton style foam. They're simple and affordable compared to some of the more complex-to-set-up options in our lineup, but it is just a piece of foam, so we'll leave you to decide how much bang you're really getting for your buck.

backpacking chair - if we had to sum up the z seat in just a few words: sit anywhere for...
If we had to sum up the Z Seat in just a few words: Sit anywhere for 2 ounces   Credit: Adam and Elizabeth Paashaus

The REI Co-op Trail Stool wasn't a favorite for comfort or stability, but it's lightweight and easy to use, and you can snag it for around $25.

Comfort


Real talk: in the backcountry, chairs are mostly a luxury, not a necessity, and their main purpose is to provide some comfort. To justify lugging a purely luxurious item around with you, it must improve your outdoor experience. For our comfort metric, we evaluated how chairs can be more or less comfortable and used these characteristics to rate each product against the others. We also measured how far each seat elevated us off the ground. In general, the higher the chair is, the easier it is to get in and out, and the gentler it is on the knees and hips. We also compared how far back the seat reclined (or didn't) and the seat's width.


Our clear leader in this metric is the Big Agnes Big Six. This chair is simply massive. It sits high above the ground and offers a large back support that's tall enough to rest your head against. The only downside to all of this comfort is this chair's weight. Plush, yes, but not lightweight.

backpacking chair - taking a load off in the big six in between rock climbs at joshua...
Taking a load off in the Big Six in between rock climbs at Joshua Tree. We love the headrest on this chair.   Credit: Elizabeth Paashaus

Other comfortable models that are more practical for the backcountry are the Big Agnes Skyline UL, Helinox Chair Zero LT, and the Crazy Creek Hex 2.0. The Skyline UL beats the Chair Zero and Crazy Creek, but it's also heavier. The Chair Zero and Crazy Creek offer completely different designs, but both offer some of the best comfort we've seen for lightweight backpacking chairs.


We also loved the NEMO Moonlite Elite Reclining for its adjustable reclining back. We don't feel this chair suits bigger, taller bodies very well, but our smaller-sized testers enjoyed it.

The NEMO Moonlite Elite Reclining has a simple but effective reclining feature that we really liked.   Credit: Jason Wanlass

Size and Weight


Unlike our camping chair review, this review is designed specifically for portable chairs that can be carried into the backcountry or during hikes. We analyzed packability and weight for this metric, knowing that a chair would have to be pretty compact to make it into an already heavy pack on your next trip into the backcountry. We considered both the relative weight of each chair compared to models of the same design (foam or tent style), as well as how it stacked up against every product we tested.


We put each chair on a scale, brought out the measuring tape, and recorded what we found. Then, we assessed whether the bulk and weight were worth it for the comfort of each model offered. The lightest 'chairs' in the category are actually simple ground pads: the Therm-a-Rest Z Seat is a featherweight 1.8 ounces, and the Nemo Chipper is a mere 3.3 ounces. Both are easily packable on a long-distance backpacking trip and fit neatly into a water bottle side pocket.

Enjoying our Therm-a-Rest Z Seat during day one of a 75-mile trek in the Italian Dolomites. A simple and lightweight chair is key for long, multi-day routes.   Credit: Jason Wanlass

Our other top scorers for this metric are the Helinox Chair Zero LT and the REI Co-op Trail Stool. The most impressive thing about the Helinox chair is its weight-to-capacity ratio. It tops the scales at about 1.5 pounds, but boasts a maximum holding capacity of 265 pounds. Impressive is an understatement.

backpacking chair - the seat of helinox chair zero lt is so thin and lightweight that&#039;s...
The seat of Helinox Chair Zero LT is so thin and lightweight that's its almost completely see-through.   Credit: Jason Wanlass

Lastly, we were also impressed by the weight and size of the REI Co-op Flexlite Air (one of the lightest in our lineup), NEMO Moonlite Elite Reclining, and the Crazy Creek Hex 2.0. If we had to pick between the three, we'd go with the Crazy Creek chair. It's a little heavier and has a larger packed size, but the biggest trade-off is its comfort.

backpacking chair - the rei flexlite air tips our scales at just 16.9 ounces. one of the...
The REI Flexlite Air tips our scales at just 16.9 ounces. One of the lightest full chairs of the bunch.   Credit: Jason Wanlass

Stability


We got a lot of feedback on the chairs in this review, and one thing quickly became clear: if a chair is stable, our testers didn't even think about it. If, on the other hand, a chair is unstable, it's the first complaint you'll hear. The sign of a great product is one you can use easily and effortlessly, and chairs are no different.


Both the Therm-a-Rest Z Seat and the NEMO Chipper were the clear leaders here since they sit directly on the ground. This makes for a very stable place to put your rear end. Right on their tails is the Crazy Creek Hex 2.0. This amazing chair also sits on the ground. This clamshell-style chair sits directly on the crease that divides both of its sides, creating a very stable surface that can balance on dirt, sand, grass, and more.

backpacking chair - we loved the unmatched stability of the crazy creek.
We loved the unmatched stability of the Crazy Creek.   Credit: Jason Wanlass

Other top performers in this metric include the Big Agnes Big Six, Big Agnes Skyline UL Chair, Big Agnes Skyline Stool, and the Marchway Lightweight Portable. Stability is a tricky thing when it comes to lightweight backpacking chairs, but we think each of these models do a great job.

We've never tested a stool that would allow us to lean back with our full body weight -- enter the Big Agnes Skyline UL Stool. This little guy is one of the most stable camp stools we've ever seen.   Credit: Jason Wanlass

We were quite impressed with the stability of the Helinox Chair Zero LT, and then… we broke it. We pushed this chair to its limits, and we found them. Jason, our head tester, weighs 265 pounds, which is this chair's exact max weight limit, and on day 2 of a 5-day backpacking trip, he sat down and snapped one of the poles. This was a bummer because we were ready to recommend this chair as the best overall, but we couldn't do that in good conscience after it broke during testing. However, Jason is adamant that he thinks those who are well under the 265-pound limit will find this chair stable, comfortable, and awesome to tote into the backcountry.

backpacking chair - look closely at the right back support and you may see where we...
Look closely at the right back support and you may see where we duct-taped this chair back together after breaking it. Oops! However, for folks smaller than our lead tester, we think this chair will stay intact.   Credit: Jason Wanlass

Ease of Use


We've wrestled with our share of outdoor equipment, and we know the product we're willing to take with us is the one that doesn't make us want to pull our hair out. Sometimes, we may be willing to learn how to operate a more complicated piece of gear when the benefits outweigh the struggle, but often, we want to just to pick it up and have it work. Setting up these backpacking chairs is by no means difficult, but some models have the setup dialed in.


To put the chairs to the test, we first set them up without reading or looking at any instructions, and we attempted to pack them back into their bags. We were surprised that every model we tested had no issue fitting back into its stuff sack. Some fit tighter than others, but nothing compared to the notoriously difficult task of putting a tent back into its bag!

Foam seat pads require almost no setup. The Therm-a-Rest Z Seat and Nemo Chipper only need a quick unfurl from their accordioned positions, and they are ready in an instant. The only reason we dinged these models any points at all was for the difficulty required to get up off the ground. The Crazy Creek Hex 2.0 is another incredibly easy set-up; it unpacks in less than five seconds and is ready to go. You may need to adjust the side straps once you sit down, but this is quite simple.


Other top performers included the Nemo Moonlite Elite Reclining, REI Co-op Trail Stool, and the Big Agnes Skyline UL Stool. In particular, we really loved Nemo's snap-in system. It was a nice new take on attaching the chair's fabric seat.

The NEMO Moonlite Elite Reclining chair uses a ball-and-socket system for attaching its frame to the seat fabric. It's carrying case also doubles as stabilizer.   Credit: Jason Wanlass

The chairs we tested from Big Agnes have color-coded poles and pole pockets for a quick visual cue during assembly. We love that some of the Helinox models include picture directions printed on the chairs, making your first setup as easy as your fifteenth. The REI Trail Stool is effortless. It just requires a quick twist and your body weight on the chair to set it up.

backpacking chair - there are tons of options, so picking the right chair for your needs...
There are tons of options, so picking the right chair for your needs requires you to really think about how you plan to use your chair.   Credit: Jason Wanlass

How to Pick the Best Backpacking Chair


An ever-saturated gear market makes it an increasingly daunting task to both find and purchase even simple items. To make it easy, we've boiled it down to three questions you should ask yourself.

Do I Need a Backpacking Chair?


Mother Nature's living room is filled to the brim with furniture. From boulders to tree stumps and even the forest floor, there are plenty of places to plop your rump after lugging your backpack into camp. Before shelling out $150 or more on some aluminum and fabric, ask yourself if having a chair is a necessity for you. They take up pack space, they're somewhat fragile, and they weigh a lot (at least that's what most avid backpackers would say). However, they are a luxury that really can make a difference. They allow you to truly rest your back and legs after a long day of trudging uphill. They also make eating much more relaxing and enjoyable. Most backpackers will circle together at camp as they recover from the rigors of the day, and a comfortable place to sit will make it that much more enjoyable to connect with your group (especially if you're not coveting your buddy's comfy chair while you shift around on a lumpy rock).

backpacking chair - there&#039;s an old backpacker&#039;s saying: ounces in the morning begin to...
There's an old backpacker's saying: Ounces in the morning begin to feel like pounds by the afternoon. Whether you like it or not, weight begins to add up quickly when you're on your sixth mile of the day. So it pays to wisely plan every ounce in your pack. This includes your chair.   Credit: Jason Wanlass

How Much Am I Willing to Add to My Pack?


There's an old backpacker's saying: Ounces in the morning feel like pounds in the evening. Even the best backpackers have to fight the urge to overpack. Those who give in to their desire for extra food, clothing, and gadgets usually regret it pretty early on in any multi-day backpacking trip. Most die-hard backcountry wanderers have a firm idea of how much they want their pack to weigh, and many believe sparing an extra 20 ounces or more for a luxury seat isn't worth it. The backpacking chairs in our lineup vary in weight from just 1.8 ounces to upwards of 50 ounces (3.1 pounds). In addition to added weight, chairs generally take up a lot of space. So, it's important to study the specs related to each chair in order to select one that will complement your packing system.

backpacking chair - a typical backpack that is stuffed to the gills with gear and...
A typical backpack that is stuffed to the gills with gear and gadgets. Strapping a camp chair to the bottom adds more weight. It's best to take inventory of your pack before you leave and pare it down to offset the added weight of a luxury item like a chair.   Credit: Jason Wanlass


How Much Comfort and Support Do I Want?


Backpacking chairs vary in size, shape, and features. Generally, the greater the comfort, the greater the weight. This type of chair will never match the comfort offered by larger car camping chairs. In the backpacking world, the most spacious chairs are usually too heavy to lug around for 5 days on the trail, so it's important to be realistic about your definition of comfort. Generally, pack chairs are thin, compact, and somewhat shallow (they do not support the entire upper legs. We recommend testing your new chair in your home long before you ever hit the trail. Additionally, there are many different styles of backpacking chairs. Some sit directly on the ground, while others have legs. Some have more extensive back support, but most are more on the minimal side. However, they all have one thing in common: they have limited features and are small and compact.

Several versions of backpacking chairs, each with their own style and comfort levels.


How Much Am I Willing to Spend?


In the backpacking world, smaller and lighter usually means more expensive. Tough, lightweight fabrics, aircraft-grade aluminum, and premium engineering make for a lighter, stronger chair, but it also drives up the price. So, if having one of these luxury items to lounge in at camp is a solid expectation, prepare to pay well over $100. Yes, there are cheaper models, but they are much heavier and have packed sizes that rival a roll of paper towels. If you tend to do a short backpacking trip (2-3 days) once a year, you could certainly get by with one of these heavier models. However, if backpacking is your jam, we highly suggest spending the extra moolah to go as lightweight as possible.

A classic, grade-A aluminum model like this one is reasonably lightweight, comfortable, and strong, but it will set you back upwards of $180.   Credit: Jason Wanlass

Other Backpacking Chairs to Consider


  • Helinox Chair Zero - We've tested the original version as well as the newer Chair Zero LT, and we like them both. The LT is only around two ounces lighter than the original, with a slightly smaller packed size. We believe the original Chair Zero may be a bit more robust, as our 265-pound tester tested both and actually broke the Chair Zero LT. The LT's upgrades are mesh fabric that feels more breathable and an X-strap that helps stabilize the bottom legs. Overall, both are great chairs, but we caution against pushing them to their weight limit. If you're 200 pounds or under, we think you'll love either chair for its comfort, weight, stability, and strength.

  • REI Co-op Flexlite - This is the heavier version of the Flexlite Air we tested for this review. The designs are quite similar, but the non-Air version uses a burlier 300 denier material. The Air is only 70 denier, which helps shave 11 ounces, but isn't going to be as rugged or durable. If you're not going to be lugging your chair as far, we recommend the Flexlite, which is a little cheaper than the Flexlite Air. And if you're staying really close to camp, check out the REI Co-op Flexlite Camp Dreamer, which has a high back and a padded headrest (but weighs over 3 pounds).

  • Crazy Creek Hex 2.0 Powerlounger - The Powerlounger basically has the same design as the Crazy Creek Hex 2.0. Its key difference is an extended flap of padding that continues past the legs. It can be unfolded to offer increased protection for the legs, but it can also be folded back on itself, essentially doubling the cushion for your tush. Lastly, the entire chair can be unfolded to produce a basic sleeping pad.

  • REI Co-op Flexlite Air Stool - We typically don't find tripod stools to be super comfortable, but if you love the stool design and want one that's ultralight, the Flexlite Air is the lighter-weight (and much pricier) version of the REI Co-op Trail Stool we tested. For the price, though, we'd suggest other comfier options.

Conclusion


Though we like to get out and get after it, we also consider ourselves experts at sitting back and taking in the view. We have spent weeks on end with all these chairs, taking them everywhere we went, from Southern Utah's canyons to backpacking in the High Sierra to the lush Appalachians. We jammed out at outdoor concerts and soaked up the sun in the desert. We got to know each product in this review, from small details to more extensive impressions. We compared them all side-by-side, taking detailed notes as we went along. By evaluating comfort, size, weight, stability, and ease of use, we feel confident that you now have the information you need to select the best chair for you. Whether you're looking for the lightest option on the market or the most comfortable spot to park your booty tent-side, we've got you covered.

—Jason Wanlass, Ben Applebaum-Bauch, and Elizabeth Paashaus