How to Choose a Camp Chair

For its size and hardiness, the REI Co-op Flexlite camp chair has become a co-op favorite. Its ripstop seat and tentlike frame surpass our durability tests—and also fans' bring-it-anywhere tests!
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Imported.
View the REI Co-op Flexlite Product LineView all REI Co-op Camp ChairsBest Use | Backpacking Camping |
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Camp Chair Style | Scoop |
Unfolded Dimensions | 25 x 20 x 20 (H x W x D) inches |
Folded Dimensions | 4.5 x 15 inches |
Seat Height | 11 inches |
Weight Capacity (lbs) | 250 pounds |
Seat Material(s) | 300-denier ripstop polyester (bluesign approved) |
Frame Construction | Aluminum |
Weight | 1 lb. 11 oz. |
Sustainability | Contains materials that meet the bluesign® criteria From a Climate Label Certified brand |
From feedback to field testing, all of our gear is dialed-in by REI Co-op members. Their adventures informed every stitch and detail—making for better, longer-lasting gear.
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Great chair. I had always hated the idea of taking a chair backpacking as it seemed so extra. There's always a rock or gravel that makes for a nice place to sit outdoors. I tried the Helinox and other lightweight chairs and ended up finding this one the most comfortable. Durability: Warning to those who break things. It is a 1 pound chair with aluminum legs. I am fairly big, 6-5, 220. I don't land into this chair. I push it into the sand or dirt to even it out and stabilize it before sitting in it. It is a 1 pound chair; treat it as such and it will last. I believe it's the best chair out there for durability and comfort given its weight.
A great budget chair. Is lightweight for bikepacking or backpacking. Packs down to small size for stowage in bags. Easy to bring to the crag due to weight and size.
I've been using this chair for about 4 years. It packs small enough to fit into my motorcycles saddle bag so this chair has been with me for at least 20 motocamping trips as well as a lot.of beach parties and anywhere else I go on the bike. Comfortable, small, light weight, easy to assemble and pack. The only drawback is you need get used to sitting with your legs extended out or tucked in to keep balance on it. After using it a few times, you get used to how to sit in this thing to keep it balanced. It's not an uncomfortable sitting position but just get used to keeping your badonk in the back of the chair and you'll be golden. If compact and durable is specifically what you need. This is just fine. If you're car camping, do yourself a favor and just get a bigger chair.
The good stuff: this chair is light and packs down to a very small size. It's easy to assemble and is comfortable. The bad: the stitching on the pockets that hold the seat to the frame started failing on a canoe trip to North West Wabakimi; only the second time I used the chair. Very annoying. The chair is also a bit unstable, so you have to be careful when sitting down into it and not lean too far to the side, or it will tip you out. Finally, you need to replace the rubber feet with wide trekking pole feet because the ones the chair comes with just sink right in to soft ground, adding to the instability. REI replaced the fabric seat for me and I think this is an upgrade. Seems to be stronger and better stitched.
I bought the REI Flexlite chair and used it for about 10 backpacking trips. It was nice and light and seemed fine. On my last backparking trip in July 2025 one of the plastic fittings that hold the poles together just cracked and broke. Chair needs to be replaced. I wasn't doing anything special just sitting my 190lb body on it. I took it to my local REI store in Roseville, CA for a replacement. They said NO. I asked for a discount on a new one. They said NO. This is not the same old REI. Disappointed in the equipment and customer service.
Well constructed lightweight chair for backpacking--weighs less than a liter of water. However feet always sink into soft ground at camp. Several competing brands include wider non-sink feet which would greatly improve this chair.
Very comfortable and solid chair. Love it. It is a bit heavier than the flex life air but size is not much bigger. A little more stable than the air. So if you are going day hiking it’s perfect. Would buy it again.
have had 2 of these chairs for over 2 years now and I took one with me on my deployment to Iraq. used every day and it's held up well, it's a complete one and done purchase
So I bought this for a recent camping trip because I was packing out on my motorcycle and I wanted to be as lightweight and compact as possible. None of my camping chairs fit this description so I went in search of something like this and this was the choice I made. I went back-and-forth a little bit between This and the “higher capacity” version because I am only about 20 lbs below the weight threshold. I have to say, not only is it super packable. It is also very durable and comfortable. I am 5‘10“ and I can sit back and relax in this chair and it does not feel unstable. It has also become my go to chair when my daughter and I go for a bike ride to the park so I can sit where I want and not be relegated to the benches.  Currently relaxing and reading my book in the shade while my kiddo plays!
Super light, rugged fabric, comfortable, great price. Just what I was hoping for. Another great product from REI.