When you’re heading out on a multi-day hike or a camping trip where space is at a premium, a bulky chair just isn’t an option. This is where lightweight backpacking chairs come in. They promise to give you a comfortable seat without the weight and size of a traditional camp chair. I got my hands on the Moon Lence Portable Folding Chair to see if its reputation as a compact and comfortable option holds up. I’ve taken it along on a few recent adventures to test its stability, ease of setup, and overall comfort, especially after a long day on the trail. Here’s how this little chair performed.
The good
- Packs down to a very compact size
- Weighs only 1.35 kg
- Sturdy carry bag with handles
- Attached straps prevent losing parts
- Handy and strong side pockets
The not-so-good
- Sits quite low to the ground
- Assembly can take some effort
- Mesh back is not great for cold nights
What You’re Getting
A lightweight and foldable backpacking chair featuring a sturdy aluminium frame, durable 600D Oxford nylon fabric, and convenient side pockets.
Quick Specs
If you’re ready to dive into the details, here are the key specs for this product. The table below gives you a clear and quick overview of everything you need to know.
| Spec | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Moon Lence |
| Material | 600 D Oxford Nylon, Aluminium Alloy Frame |
| Open Dimensions | L55 x W55 x H70 cm |
| Packed Dimensions | L36 x W12 x H12 cm |
| Weight | 1.35 kg |
| Colours | Black, Green, Grey, Khaki, Onyx, Orange, Desert Camo |
| Weight Capacity | 180 kg |
| Features | Side pockets, mesh back, carry bag, attached straps |
| Use Case | Hiking, backpacking, picnics, camping |
First impressions
Right out of the box, the Moon Lence chair impressed me with its compact size. It came neatly packed in a sturdy carry bag with a zipper and multiple loops for hanging the bag around camp. It felt a little heavier than I expected for a backpacking chair, and my scale confirmed it came in at 1.35 kg, which is a bit more than the advertised weight. Despite that, it was still very light and small.
Pulling out the frame, I noticed the elastic cord was very strong, pulling the pieces together almost on their own. The best part? The straps that keep the frame bundled are actually attached to the frame itself, a genius design choice that prevents you from losing them on the trail, which has happened to me with other chairs.
Materials & Build Quality
The chair’s frame is constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum, which gives it a super rigid and sturdy feel while keeping the weight impressively low. The fabric, made from 600 D Oxford ripstop ballistic nylon with double seams, feels extremely durable. I have no doubt that it could withstand plenty of use and abuse on the trail. The mesh panel in the back is a fantastic idea for warmer weather, allowing air to circulate.
The design, which uses a central linkage pole to form a dual-triangle base, feels incredibly stable. The carry bag is also a standout, made from the same strong material with a robust velcro strap and convenient hanging loops, it feels like it will last a very long time.
Ergonomics & Weight
When you’re hiking, every gram in your pack matters, and at 1.35 kg, the Moon Lence camping chair is a great compromise between being lightweight and offering a comfortable seating experience. The chair’s compact packed size makes it easy to slide into a backpack or strap to the outside. Once assembled, it feels surprisingly spacious. The seating height is alright, especially for a chair that folds down so small. It’s a low-profile chair, but that’s a trade-off you expect for this level of portability.
A great feature is the side pockets, which are a godsend. They are roomy and sturdy, perfect for holding your phone, a water bottle, or a small snack. This little detail makes the chair far more functional than its competitors, allowing you to keep essentials close by.
Performance & Features
The Moon Lence chair performs exactly as a high-quality backpacking chair should. The setup is lightning fast; the shock-corded poles essentially guide themselves into place, and then you just slip the fabric seat on. The chair feels very stable, even on slightly uneven ground, thanks to its sturdy triangular structure. This is a massive confidence booster when you’re tired and just want to sit down.
Another huge plus is the mesh back, which lets air flow through, keeping you cooler on hot days. While this is great in summer, it’s not ideal for colder nights, so I had to put a jacket on the back for insulation. The side pockets are an excellent feature, making it easy to store small items without needing to get up. Overall, this chair is a top performer for anyone prioritising a lightweight and packable seating solution.
Gear That Complements Your Camping Setup
For a truly comfortable camp setup, having a great camp chair is just the beginning. You might want to check out our reviews of lightweight swags and tents that pack down small. Reliable water gear is also a must-have for any serious adventurer. And for those nights when the temperature drops, a good sleeping bag and a comfortable sleeping pad can make all the difference.
The Moon Lence Portable Folding Chair is an excellent piece of kit for anyone who needs a lightweight and compact seating solution.
Its sturdy frame, durable fabric, and ingenious design features—like the attached straps and convenient side pockets—make it stand out from the competition. While it sits a little low and isn’t the lightest chair on the market, it offers a great balance of comfort, stability, and portability. It’s perfect for multi-day hikes, backpacking trips, or even just as an extra chair for picnics where you want to travel light. This chair is a fantastic addition to any minimalist adventurer’s gear list.
This chair is best for backpackers and hikers who need a lightweight, comfortable chair to rest in after a long day of walking. It’s also a great option for festivals or picnics where you want to travel light and avoid carrying a bulky traditional camp chair. Its strong build and high weight capacity make it suitable for a wide range of users.
Yes, this chair is well worth the money. It offers a great combination of features, from its durable aircraft-grade aluminum frame and ripstop nylon fabric to the clever side pockets and attached straps. It provides excellent comfort and stability for its compact size and weight. The Moon Lence backpacking chair is a brilliant investment for anyone looking for a reliable and comfortable seat that won’t weigh down their pack.
