Portable folding chairs are indispensable for most outdoor trips. Especially the ones that include activities such as camping, fishing, and hiking. And there are plenty of types and designs available. The features each chair includes vary as well. And of all features, weight is probably the most important to consider. As you’ll probably need to carry it, the lighter the chair is the better. We know choosing one can be a chore, so we’ve come up with a list for you. Here are 13 of the best lightweight chair for camping.
How to Choose the Best Lightweight Chair for Camping
As mentioned before, chairs may vary in style, features, and weight. However, they also have different factors, such as the material they’re made of, how much weight they support, and their portability. Here are some key features you should consider when buying a portable folding chair:
Weight
Even though all chairs we feature on this list are lightweight, they still vary in weights. From 12lbs to lower, you can choose according to your preferences. Let’s say you’re going on a backpacking trip. You’ll probably need a lighter chair, perhaps those around 2-3lbs. But if you’re planning on driving, heavier chairs won’t be a problem. Also, if you prefer luxury chairs over regular ones, they’re relatively heavier. Just remember these two facts: heavier doesn’t mean more stable and lighter chairs are easy to carry around.
Frame and seat materials
Steel and aluminum are the two most used materials in camping-chair frames. Both tend to be tougher and more durable. However, steel is firmer than aluminum. So, keep this in mind when choosing a camping chair. On the other hand, the seats are usually made of coated rip-stop nylon. This material enhances the chair´s durability and water-resistance. Also, it adds comfort. Other chairs have closed-cell-foam padded seats, especially waterproof ones. This type of material doesn´t absorb water, which makes it great for rainy days! Regardless of which material you prefer, most chairs include carbon fiber to make it firmer, yet still lightweight!
Comfort and design
There are numerous designs and types of camping chairs. You’ll find minimalist, regular, or luxurious designs. Also, kids’ and adults’ chairs are designed differently. This is to provide the ultimate comfort. Minimalist chairs tend to be less comfy since they don´t include many features. Regular chairs are the medium point between minimal and luxurious. They usually have armrests or padded seatbacks, but that’s about it. Meanwhile, luxurious camping chairs have the most comfortable seats and are more expensive. Decide what type of chair is your best option!
Portability
Besides weight, design, and comfort, you should consider the packability of a camping chair. Think about what sort of activity you need it for. Camping or a backpacking trip? A bulky chair will never be the best option when it comes to packing light. Folding chairs are great for trips as you can pack them inside your duffel bag. And it would be even more convenient if they come with a carry bag. With this, your chair will fit and fold perfectly. Also, you should take a look if the chair requires assembling. We recommend those without or at least with minimum effort to set up.
Extras
Last but not least, you should check what additional features a chair includes. Just like how comfort varies depending on the type of chair, extra features vary too. Minimalist chairs usually don’t include any extra features, while regular and luxurious chairs do. Most likely, they come with cup holders and armrests. But extended pads and storage pouches aren’t that common. Before buying a lightweight folding camping chair, be sure to know what you need. If you don’t mind holding your drink, a minimalist chair will do. But if you want the full experience, pick a chair that includes the most features.
GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker Chair
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The first lightweight camping chair on our list is GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker Chair. It’s a portable outdoor rocking chair. It comes with a mesh backrest and padded armrests for extra comfort. Its frame is made of lightweight powder-coated steel. So it provides sturdiness and weight resistance, supporting up to 250lbs. A convenient carry handle is included for easy transport. It also includes a built-in beverage holder. Forget about having to hold your cups all the time!
This chair features GCI’s Spring-Action Rocking Technology for a rocking experience on any outdoor surface. Made with GCI’s Easy-Fold properties, it opens and closes smoothly. When open, the chair measures 24 x 25 x 34.8 inches. Its 19.7-inches height makes sitting and getting up easy. Despite its 12lbs weight, it’s considered a lightweight chair for car campers.
What We Love
The best chair for car camping trips!
Pros:
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Folds easily
- Rocking motion
- Includes carry handle
- Two colors options available
Cons:
Not suitable for a backpacking trip.
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Quik Shade MAX Shade Camp Chair
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Quik Shade MAX Shade Chair is a portable folding chair. Featuring an adjustable MAX Shade canopy, this chair is perfect for sunny days. And it’s adjustable! So you can raise, lower, and tilt the canopy as you like. The chair itself also includes two mesh cup holders. Another great thing is that it unfolds without requiring any assembly. Talk about convenience! It also contains one mesh storage that lets you keep snacks and essentials close.
The carry bag included has a shoulder strap, making its packing easier. And its polyester seat is not only waterproof but also stain resistant. With a breathable mesh material, it allows good air ventilation. The durable steel frame can support up to 225lbs. Also, the frame’s design has a higher arched back for more comfort. Its dimension is 7.5 x 37.4 x 6.3 inches and only weighs 9lbs. Such a good lightweight chair for camping!
What We Love
This makes sitting under the sun never been better!
Pros:
- Adjustable canopy for sun protection
- No assembly required
- Includes carry bag with shoulder strap
- Supports up to 225lbs
- It comes with two cup holders
Cons:
It has a short time-limited warranty.
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PORTAL Mesh Back Quad Camping Chair
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If you’re looking for a good lightweight folding camping chair, you’ve come to the right place. PORTAL Mesh Back Quad Camping Chair is a mountaineering folding chair. With a 23.6 x 18.5 x 36.6 inches dimension, it supports up 300 lbs. And the 600D Poly Canvas fabric makes it resistant to any weather conditions. Its corners have triple reinforcement to prevent tears. High quality is assured! Also, the seat has a breathable honeycomb mesh back to ensure comfort.
The High Carbon Steel frame has a powder coating that provides stability. And it features a hard-padded armrest. The armrest increases not only comfort but security when standing up. It also comes with one cup holder and a storage pocket. Perfect for drinks, snacks, and even your mosquito repellent! Lastly, the carry bag included makes it easier to pack.
What We Love
Weather is not an excuse for this PORTAL chair.
Pros:
- Supports up to 300lbs
- Resists all type of weather conditions
- Has one cup holder
- Includes a carrying bag
- Three color options available
- Includes storage pocket
Cons:
Heavier compared to other lightweight camping chairs.
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AmazonBasics Portable Camping Chair
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Another great lightweight chair for camping is AmazonBasics Portable Camping Chair. Made of 100% polyester, it’s one of the best and more affordable options. It comes with a cushioned seat and back, ensuring satisfaction. And it has one cup holder, a storage pocket, and a beverage-cooler pouch. Yes! A cooler pouch! This built-in beverage-cooler pouch can keep up to four 12-oz cans. A great alternative to coolers for camping! Also, the integrated cup holder conveniently allows you to store one can you’re drinking.
Due to all its features, this chair is one of the biggest available. However, the steel frame provides not only strength but also smooth folding. Every purchase comes with a carry bag for easy packing. The bag also allows you to fold it small enough to fit the trunk. And it keeps everything in place!
What We Love
High-quality chair at an affordable price!
Pros:
- Affordable
- Includes a beverage-cooler pouch
- Limited 1-year warranty
- Available in two sizes
- Includes carry bag
Cons:
Not waterproof.
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EVER ADVANCED Oversized Quad Chair (CU)
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EVER ADVANCED Oversized Quad Chair is a foldable camping chair. When open, its dimension is 22 x 22 x 43 inches. And when closed, it’s only 8 x 8.5 x 41 inches. Even though it weighs only 8.5lbs, it can support up to 300lbs. The fully padded and high back seat enhances relaxation and enjoyment. Also, the 600D polyester seat adds more comfort. The steel frame provides sturdiness while not requiring any assembly. Easy folding is assured!
It features a multifunctional design. The armrest is adjustable, so you can change it depending on your arm height. Also, the front support bar provides extra arm support. Each chair includes a side organizer pouch. It’s great to store your cellphone, notebooks, and some reading materials. The carry bag included has a portable strip, which makes carrying it even easier. Finally, a cup holder on the side is always handy.
What We Love
Its multifunctional design makes it the most comfortable chair.
Pros:
- Two colors options available
- Includes a carry bag
- No assembly required
- Fully padded seat
- Includes an accessory storage pouch
Cons:
The seat material is not water-resistant.
ALPS Mountaineering Rendezvous Chair
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ALPS Mountaineering Rendezvous Chair is a perfect chair for outdoor activities. It sits low to the ground, so you can easily lean back and stretch your legs. With a 22 x 14 x 24 inches dimension, it can support up to 300lbs. And the best part is that it only weighs 6lbs by itself! The compact design makes folding easy. And when folded, it only measures 8 x 24 inches. Kids would love sitting on it too. Such a versatile chair!
Considered a lightweight folding camping chair, it conveniently collapses and sets quickly. A powder-coated steel frame ensures sturdiness. On the other hand, the TechMesh Fabric seat assures airflow and comfort. And despite being not waterproof, it will dry quickly when it gets wet.
What We Love
A great chair for camping with kids!
Pros:
- Four colors options available
- Supports up to 300lbs
- Comfortable low design
- Compact
- Includes a carry bag
Cons:
The low design may not be suitable for some.
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Cascade Mountain Tech Camp Chair
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Just like the previous one, this is a low design chair. Cascade Mountain Tech Camp Chair is a lightweight folding camping chair. It has the perfect height that won’t hurt your back or legs. The breathable mesh fabric ensures excellent air ventilation. A great option for bonfires!
On the other hand, cushioned armrests offer extra comfort. It comes in a 26.5 x 6.6 x 6.6 inches of size. Yet, it’s only 6lbs! These make it a nice compact chair. It includes a storage bag with convenient shoulder straps, great for traveling. The steel and aluminum frame provides stability and durability. Overall, it supports up to 250lbs.
What We Love
An affordable and comfy option for adventurers!
Pros:
- Compact
- Supports up to 250lbs
- Easy and quick folding
- Includes storage bag
- Sturdy design
Cons:
Low profile design may not fit every camper.
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Coleman Broadband Mesh Quad Camping Chair
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Coleman Broadband Mesh Quad Camping Chair is a lightweight chair for camping. It’s portable, ideal for camping and backpacking. The nylon mesh fabric seat offers excellent airflow. Meanwhile, its dimension of 21.3 x 31.1 x 35.8 inches and 18.1 inches sitting height enhances comfort. The heavy-duty steel frame of the chair supports up to 250lbs. Yet, its compact and collapsible design makes it easy to pack.
Another great feature is the extra-wide seat. With 21.3 inches of space, it provides plenty of space for you to enjoy. This chair also includes a sling carry bag. Portability won’t be a problem! Keep your drink close with the integrated cup holder. And rest your arms on the comfortable armrests.
What We Love
This chair is everything you need at half the price of most products available.
Pros:
- 1-year limited warranty
- Includes one cup holder
- Supports 250lbs
- Ultra-wide seat
- Affordable option
Cons:
It doesn’t include a storage bag.
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TravelChair Slacker
5
Next up is a special one. TravelChair Slacker Chair is a tripod camping stool. Campers, hikers, and adventurers prefer it for its shape. The 3-legged design allows it to be extremely compact and portable yet comfortable. Perfect for on-the-go adventures! When folded and secured with its Velcro strap, the stool is no bigger than a rolled-up newspaper. You can even pack it inside your hiking backpack!
The tubing frame makes the tent durable, holding up to 275lbs yet only weighing 1.9lbs. Don’t worry about it getting wet. The exterior rust-resistant powder covers and shields it. Nylon connectors and powerful rivets give the stool the stability it needs. Also, its nylon feet prevent it from sinking on soft surfaces. A double-coated polyester fabric surrounds the seat. This material protects it from the sun. On top of that, it’s cut, stretch, and abrasion-proof. Also, it distributes weight evenly, so you would feel safe sitting on it.
What We Love
The perfect tiny camping chair!
Pros:
- Available in 4 colors
- Easy to set up
- Ultra-lightweight
- Compact
- Holds up to 275lbs
Cons:
Since it’s a stool, it doesn’t have back support.
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TREKOLOGY YIZI GO Portable Chair (404)
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TREKOLOGY YIZI GO Portable Chair is an excellent option for many reasons. First, it’s a lightweight chair for camping, only weighs 2.1lbs. With an 11 x 4.3 x 6 inches dimension, it supports up to 300lbs. The aluminum alloy frame grants perfect stability and strength. Its loop design provides easy setup not in minutes, but just seconds! Even though assembly is required, you won’t need extra tools for its setup.
The 600D polyester fabric of the seat is durable and flexible. The mesh panels allow continuous airflow and provide extra comfort. Also, its deeper seat design adds better back support. Convenience assured with the two side pockets included, great for essentials and food. Also, the chair is compact and portable when folded in the carry bag included. Fits perfectly in backpacks and carry-ons! All of these reasons make this a perfect outdoor camping chair.
What We Love
Style and comfort go hand in hand with this chair.
Pros:
- Available in four different colors
- Supports up to 300lbs
- Two side pockets
- Includes carry bag
- Easy unfolding
Cons:
The sand cover required is sold separately.
MOON LENCE Outdoor Ultralight Chair (CU)
3
MOON LENCE Outdoor Ultralight Chair is a heavy-duty camping chair. It supports up to 242lbs of sitting weight. And the 600D Oxford cloth seat and aluminum alloy frame contribute to its durability. The reinforced stitches provide the confidence to sit freely on the chair. Despite not having armrests, its unique ergonomic design provides complete comfort. Also, the breathable mesh of the seat allows you to feel comfortable and relaxes.
Due to its foldable feature, this chair is perfect for traveling. And its metal poles provide easy setup and folding. Besides, its waterproof feature makes it easy to clean. Every chair comes with a carry bag that conveniently attaches to the front part. This lightweight chair for camping is also great for backpackers because it only weighs 2lbs. It’s also very affordable, making it a good gift for your travel partners. So, if the ultralight tripod didn’t convince you, this one should be your choice.
What We Love
One of the most lightweight chairs available on the market.
Pros:
- Includes carry bag
- Six colors available
- Easy folding and unfolding
- Waterproof
- Ergonomic design
Cons:
Doesn’t have armrests.
Helinox Chair Zero Ultralight Compact Camping Chair
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If you’re looking for a great lightweight folding camping chair, this one’s for you! Helinox Chair Zero Ultralight Compact Camping Chair is one of the best options. When packed, it’s only 4 x 4 x 13.5 inches. Smaller than a water bottle! This feature also makes it a perfect travel gear. Even that it doesn’t include a carry bag, its small size allows it to fit in any of your luggage. When spread open, it measures 20 x19 x 25 inches and weighs as low as 1.2lbs. Thanks to the aluminum alloy frame that provides stability at minimum weight.
Due to the ripstop polyester material, the seat can withstand harsh weather. It also provides UV protection and is washing-machine-friendly for your convenience. Also, the polyester enhances the chair’s durability and quality. A single internal bungee cord that assembles the chair’s poles provides quick and easy setup. A great option for outdoor activities!
What We Love
Helinox lets you have it all: style, sun protection, water-resistance, and comfort.
Pros:
- Can withstand harsh weather conditions
- Three colors options available
- UV resistant
- Machine-friendly
- 5-year warranty
Cons:
Pricier than other lightweight camping chairs.
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Coleman Quad Portable Camp Chair with 4-Can Cooler
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Finally, we’ve reached the top of our list. Our best lightweight chair for camping goes to Coleman Quad Portable Camp Chair with 4-Can Cooler. Yes, you heard it right. The chair comes with an integrated cooler pouch, which is probably its best feature. The insulated cooler can store up to four cans while keeping them cool. It also comes with a cup holder and storage pocket, perfect for snacks and reading materials. With a dimension of 7.48 x 7.72 x 26.97 inches, it can support up to 325lbs weight.
Durability-wise, it features a steel frame that provides sturdiness. A cushioned seat enhances comfort and back support. And its collapsible design makes it easy to fold and unfold. Thanks to this and the carry bag, you can take it with you on a camping trip easily. Depending on the color, the price may vary. But, regardless of which color you choose, the quality remains!
What We Love
It’s everything you need from a lightweight folding camping chair!
Pros:
- Includes a can cooler
- Cushioned and wide seat
- Includes one cup holder
- Three colors options available
- Comes with a storage pocket
- Includes a carry bag
- Supports up to 325lbs
Cons:
It’s not waterproof.
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