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10 Best Backpacking Chairs 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker Outdoor Rocking Chair with Beverage Holder

The GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker Outdoor Rocking Chair offers several appealing features for outdoor enthusiasts. With a weight of 11.8 pounds, it may not be the lightest backpacking chair, but it balances this with its sturdy steel frame and a weight capacity of up to 250 pounds, ensuring it can accommodate most adults comfortably. The setup process is straightforward, thanks to the Eazy-Fold Technology, making it easy to set up and pack away quickly. The chair's packed size is relatively compact, though not the smallest, allowing for convenient transport and storage.

Comfort is a significant highlight, with its rocking feature, drink holder, solid armrests, and breathable mesh backing, making it ideal for extended outdoor use, from camping trips to backyard gatherings. Durability is also a strong suit with its powder-coated finish and robust construction, promising longevity even with regular use. However, one potential drawback is its weight, which might be a bit heavy for those looking to minimize their load on long backpacking trips. Additionally, the chair's size, while offering great stability and comfort, could be a bit bulky for some users when packed.

This chair is an excellent choice for those who prioritize comfort and durability in their outdoor furniture and don't mind a bit of extra weight for these benefits.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Comfort
This chair is very sturdy and well made, offering great comfort even for taller individuals.
Durability
This chair is very sturdy and well made, offering great comfort even for taller individuals.
Ease of Setup
The GCI Freestyle Rocker is easy to fold and carry, despite its sturdy build.
#2

GCI Outdoor Comfort Pro Camping Chair | Collapsible Folding Chair with Durable Armrests, Drink Holder & Portable Carry Bag — Heathered Royal

The GCI Outdoor Comfort Pro Camping Chair is designed for outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable and comfortable seating option. Weighing 7.7 pounds, it is relatively lightweight but may not be the lightest option for backpacking. Its packed size of 5.5" x 7.1" x 44.1" is compact enough to fit in most car trunks but could be cumbersome for carrying long distances on foot.

The chair excels in comfort, featuring a mesh backrest for ventilation, padded armrests, and a supportive design, making it ideal for relaxing by the campfire or during outdoor events. Durability is a strong point, with a sturdy frame that supports up to 300 pounds. The ease of setup is another highlight, as the chair can be assembled quickly by simply pushing the backrest and armrests apart.

Additionally, the chair comes with a convenient drink holder and a phone pocket, enhancing user experience. Its bulkier packed size and moderate weight may not be ideal for those prioritizing ultralight backpacking. This chair is best suited for car camping, picnics, and short hikes where comfort and convenience are prioritized over portability.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Packed Size
The compact folding size and attached carrying strap make it easy to grab and go without a hassle.
Comfort
The chair is not only comfortable but also nice looking and of good quality, making it worth the value.
Durability
The chair is not only comfortable but also nice looking and of good quality, making it worth the value.
Ease of Setup
Easy to carry, open, and use, with the added benefits of rocking, a cupholder, and a phone pocket.
#3

GCI Outdoor Kickback Rocker Outdoor Rocking Chair with Beverage Holder

The GCI Outdoor Kickback Rocker Outdoor Rocking Chair is a well-rounded choice for backpacking and outdoor adventures. Weighing 10.6 lbs, it’s slightly on the heavier side for backpacking chairs, which might be a consideration for those needing to carry it over long distances. However, it compensates for this with a convenient carry strap that allows for hands-free portability. When folded, it has a fairly compact size of 7.9 inches in depth and 5.9 inches in width, though its height of 39 inches might not be ideal for small packs.

The chair is relatively easy to set up and take down, making it a hassle-free option for quick breaks during your hikes or camping trips. Comfort is a standout feature with its low-profile design and Spring Action Rocking Technology, allowing you to rock gently on different terrains. The chair includes a beverage holder and a phone pocket, which add to its practicality. Durability is another strong point, with a tough steel frame that supports up to 250 lbs, and a durable mesh backing for airflow.

The chair is best suited for those who prioritize comfort and ease of use in their outdoor seating, particularly at campsites or sports events. However, its weight and packed height might be a drawback for ultralight backpackers. Despite this, the positive customer reviews and high rating indicate satisfaction with its performance and durability.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Weight
The chair's strap and clip system make it easy to carry, even though it's slightly heavier than older camping chairs.
Packed Size
The absence of a sleeve simplifies packing up, allowing for quick and hassle-free storage.
Comfort
Comfort and ease of use are standout features, with the rocking motion adding a unique touch to outdoor relaxation.
Durability
High-quality materials and sturdy construction ensure durability, making it worth the investment.

Buying Guide for the Best Backpacking Chairs

Choosing the right backpacking chair can significantly enhance your outdoor experience by providing comfort and convenience. When selecting a backpacking chair, it's important to consider various factors that will affect your comfort, the chair's portability, and its suitability for your specific needs. Here are some key specifications to consider when picking the best backpacking chair for you.
WeightWeight is a crucial factor for backpacking chairs because you will be carrying it along with your other gear. The lighter the chair, the easier it will be to transport. Chairs can range from ultra-light models weighing less than a pound to more robust options that weigh several pounds. If you are going on long hikes or have a lot of other gear, a lighter chair will be more suitable. For shorter trips or if you prioritize comfort over weight, a slightly heavier chair might be acceptable.
Packed SizePacked size refers to how small the chair can be folded or collapsed for storage and transport. This is important because space in your backpack is limited. Chairs with a smaller packed size are easier to fit into your backpack and leave more room for other essentials. If you have a compact backpack or need to maximize space, look for chairs that pack down to a small size. If space is less of a concern, you can opt for a chair with a larger packed size that might offer more comfort.
ComfortComfort is a key consideration, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time sitting in the chair. Comfort can be influenced by factors such as seat height, back support, and the material of the chair. Higher seats are easier to get in and out of, while lower seats can be more stable on uneven ground. Chairs with good back support and breathable materials will enhance your comfort. Think about how long you will be sitting and what kind of terrain you will be on to determine the level of comfort you need.
DurabilityDurability refers to how well the chair can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. This includes the strength of the frame and the quality of the fabric. Durable chairs are made from materials like aluminum or steel for the frame and ripstop nylon or polyester for the fabric. If you plan to use the chair frequently or in rough conditions, look for a chair with a sturdy frame and tough fabric. For occasional use or in more gentle environments, you might be able to compromise a bit on durability.
Ease of SetupEase of setup is how quickly and easily you can assemble and disassemble the chair. This is important because you don't want to spend a lot of time and effort setting up your chair after a long hike. Some chairs have simple designs that can be set up in seconds, while others might require more time and effort. If you value convenience and speed, look for a chair with a straightforward setup process. If you don't mind spending a bit more time, you might find a chair with a more complex setup that offers additional features.
Weight CapacityWeight capacity is the maximum weight the chair can support. This is important to ensure the chair can safely hold you and any gear you might have on your lap. Chairs typically have weight capacities ranging from 200 to 400 pounds. Choose a chair with a weight capacity that comfortably exceeds your body weight to ensure stability and longevity. If you are on the heavier side or plan to use the chair for extended periods, opt for a higher weight capacity.

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