July 17th, 2026
Home → Gear Reviews → Mountain Biking

Our verdict

The Smith Optics Engage Mips MTB helmet is among the most popular options for trail riders and one of Smith’s best-selling mountain bike helmets. After dozens of miles of testing, from Colorado’s chunky high alpine trails to flowy and dusty singletrack in the Southern Utah desert, we understand why this is. 

This helmet offers lots of comfort, coverage, and multiple forms of impact protection, all at a friendly price point. It’s not the most budget-oriented option out there, nor does it have all the bells and whistles of premium MTB helmets. But of all the mountain bike helmets we’ve tested over the years, the Engage offers some of the best bang for your buck overall. 

If you don’t want to spend top dollar on your mountain biking helmet, but still want an option that’s great for all-around trail riding, offers plenty of coverage and impact protection, all without sacrificing too much in the way of comfort and airflow, then the Engage Mips should be at the top of your list.

Smith Optics Engage Mips

We create reader-supported, objective gear reviews independently selected by our editors. This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission — without costing you an extra cent. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.

Smith Optics Engage Mips specifications

• Price: $150

• Weight: 350g (medium)

• Helmet type: Trail

• Safety tech: Mips, KOROYD

• Construction: In-mold

• Number of vents: 21

• Visor: Adjustable, 3 positions

• Fit system: Dial fit system

• Sizes available: S-XL

• Certifications: U.S. CPSC Safety Standard, CE EN 1078

Best for

• Trail riding

• Technical terrain

• Cross-country riding

• Riders who want a solid helmet at a good value

Comparison table

What we liked

• Comfortable fit

• Great value

• Multiple forms of impact protection

• Secure retention system

• Good coverage, especially at this price 

What could be better

• Helmet straps don’t lie flat

• KOROYD restricts some airflow

How we tested

We spent time testing the Smith Optics Engage Mips across a variety of trails. We rode flowy and dusty singletrack in the Southern Utah desert on hot and sunny days, and we spent cool mountain mornings pedaling and descending alpine and forested trails around Colorado. 

Some rides were hot laps to beat the heat, while others were hours long with lots of climbing. We assessed comfort, airflow, functionality, and more while testing this helmet, and compared it directly to other similarly specced helmets on the market from multiple different brands in our Best MTB Helmets guide. 

We also directly compared the Engage Mips to other popular Smith Optics helmets, including their most budget-oriented options like the Smith Pilot and Smith Convoy, and their most premium mountain bike helmet for trail riding, the Forefront 3. For this review, we had one primary tester who tested the helmet in a size small. 

Performance in the field

Fit and comfort

As far as fit goes, we found the Smith Optics Engage Mips MTB helmet to fit very comfortably and snugly. It fits better and more securely than some budget-oriented options we’ve tested from Smith Optics. Our tester had no issues or pressure points with this helmet, and we think most folks will find it comfortable. Even on long, hot rides, this helmet did not pose any comfort or fit issues. 

Ventilation

Ventilation in the Engage Mips helmet is right around average, if not slightly above. With 21 vents, there is ample airflow, though some of them lose airflow due to the KOROYD structure. KOROYD is a form of impact protection that often fills the helmet's vents with a structure that looks like straws glued together—so there is still some airflow, but it is more limited when KOROYD is present. 

We rode in this helmet on sunny, 85-degree days in the desert (with a tester who runs hot) and didn’t have any issues, though when we switched to a more premium, better-ventilated option, we noticed and were thankful for the extra airflow. That said, the Engage offers plenty of venting for all but the hottest days on the trail. 

Protection and coverage

Especially considering the price, we think the Engage offers great coverage. No, it’s not the highest-coverage option out there, but it’s more than sufficient for all-around trail riding. This is a mid-range priced helmet, and it offers mid-range coverage that we think is better than average. 

The Engage helmet uses Mips for rotational impact protection, which is the industry standard and is comfortable and effective. But in addition to that, the Engage also has KOROYD for directional impacts that is strategically placed in the sides of the helmet where those blunt impacts are most likely to occur. KOROYD is that straw-like structure that crumples on impact to help mitigate the forces applied to the head from said impact. 

Stability and retention

While not a BOA system, the Engage Mips does have a 360 dial fit system that feels secure and comfortable. Even on rides through rock gardens and chunkier terrain, we didn’t have an issue with the helmet rattling at all and never had to adjust the dial during a ride. 

Weight and feel

The weight of the Engage Mips is right around average. It neither feels like a feather nor like deadweight when you’re wearing it. The overall feel is comfortable and secure, and it feels like your head sits nicely and comfortably inside the helmet shell. 

Our only complaint with the overall feel of the helmet is that the straps do not lie flat, which is a feature common to most of the more expensive MTB helmets. It’s easy enough to forget about once you start riding, for the most part. But it feels like a simple feature that we wish Smith would incorporate here.

Usability

The Smith Optics Engage Mips is comfortable and easy to adjust with the click dial on the carriage. The visor is also very easy to move into the three different positions and isn’t sticky at all. We found this useful on days when we started riding early in the morning and could easily adjust the visor, even while pedaling, as the sun shifted throughout the ride. 

You can easily store MTB sunglasses under the visor when it’s lifted to the highest position, or on top of the visor in the lowest position, though this option isn’t quite as secure.

The helmet straps are easy to adjust, but as noted before, we wish they had a lay-flat design. 

Durability

The overall build quality of the Engage Mips MTB helmet is good, and through our testing, the helmet seemed to be very durable. We rode in various conditions (including hot desert days and cool alpine mornings) and toted it around in a large gear duffel between trailheads and across state lines. So far, the only sign of use on this helmet is a little desert dust—no dings or scratches whatsoever. We expect this helmet to have great longevity overall, as with most other Smith Optics MTB helmets we’ve tested.

Features

Rotational impact protection system 

The Smith Optics Engage Mips, as implied by the name, uses Mips for rotational impact protection. This helmet uses Mips Evolve Core.

Additional impact protection

Along with Mips, the Engage also features KOROYD, which helps to lessen the force of blunt impacts (rather than rotational ones). This is strategically placed on the sides of the helmet where impacts are most likely to occur.

Adjustable visor

There is an adjustable visor on the Engage Mips which can be set to three different positions (high, average, and low). 

Fit adjustment dial

The Engage Mips has a click dial fit system that can turn in both directions for easy adjustment.

Ventilation channels

There are 21 fixed vents on this helmet, four of which are filled with KOROYD.

Sunglasses storage 

You can easily store MTB sunglasses on top of the helmet, either above or below the visor, depending on its position. We tested the Engage Mips with multiple different pairs of sunglasses, including the Smith Optics Wildcat and Bobcat, and the POC Devour Mid. 

Sustainability 

Smith Optics is working towards zero plastic waste in their packaging. 

Similar MTB helmets

Smith Engage vs Smith Optics Forefront 3

Price: $300
Weight: 410g (medium)
Impact Protection: Mips Air Node, Koroyd

The Forefront 3 is Smith Optics’ most premium half-shell trail MTB helmet, and it has the price tag to prove it. Upgrades you get with the Forefront 3 include better shell coverage, KOROYD in more places, Mips Air Node, and an incredibly comfortable and slick BOA Fit System. Lay-flat straps and a more unique design also add to this helmet’s premium build and price. 

But, if you’re looking for a more affordable option that’s an excellent contender to the Forefront, we think the Engage Mips is a great option that offers far more than half the helmet at half the price. See our in-depth review of the Smith Optics Forefront 3 mountain bike helmet to learn more.

Smith Optics Forefront 3

Smith Engage vs Smith Pilot

Price: $95
Weight: 370g (medium)
Impact Protection: Mips

The Pilot Mips is the newest budget-oriented option from Smith Optics. It has Mips for impact protection, but no KOROYD in this model. And while it shares some of the design language of the Forefront 3, it is clearly a budget helmet overall, and we noticed this most in the fit and coverage. We think it’s worth shelling out an extra $55 for the Engage Mips if that’s within your budget. You get more helmet and more comfort without the full premium price tag.

Smith Optics Pilot Mips

Smith Engage vs POC Cularis

Price: $260
Weight: 360g (medium)
Impact Protection: Mips Air Node

The Cularis is one of POC’s higher-end helmets, though not at the top of the charts in terms of price or features. This helmet has Mips Air Node and a magnetic buckle, and we found it to be more breathable and comfortable overall than the Engage—but at over $100 more. So, if comfort and airflow are top priorities, consider the Cularis. But if you’re looking for excellent overall value, the Engage is where it’s at. 

See our in-depth review of the POC Cularis MTB helmet to learn more.

POC Cularis

Should I buy the Smith Optics Engage Mips MTB helmet?

Buy if:

• You want a great trail riding helmet at a very reasonable price

• You prioritize coverage, impact protection, and overall value

• You want more features than a true budget helmet, like better coverage and a dial fit system, but don’t want to shell out for a premium-priced helmet

Skip if:

• You want maximum ventilation in your helmet

• You want all the bells and whistles, like a BOA Fit System, magnetic buckle, and lay-flat straps—and don’t mind paying for it

Where to buy

The Smith Optics Engage is a popular gear item, so you have options when it comes to retailers. Here are some of the pros of the retailers.

REI

Pros: 100% satisfaction policy for 1 year; 10% dividend for members.

Backcountry

Pros: Frequent sales for Expedition Perks members (free to join), fast shipping, Gearhead chat customer service is excellent

evo

Pros: 364-day returns, free membership gets discounts on services and rentals

Why you should trust us / About the author

A true mountain dweller, Stasia feels far more at home on a high alpine ridge than on a busy city street. She’s worked as a backpacking guide in Southeast Alaska, has held a WFR, AIARE 1, AIARE 2, and Avalanche Rescue Certifications, and is working to become an avalanche education instructor. She’s now a full-time writer and editor in the outdoor space and has been testing and writing about gear for over a decade.

Stasia learned to mountain bike as a kid in Utah and rekindled her love for the sport after moving to Summit County, Colorado, and getting a new (and very much improved over her very old hand-me-down) full-suspension bike several years ago. She spends most of her summer days out on the singletrack. Stasia has been testing mountain bike helmets for several years and has learned what to look for in a great one. Thankfully, she has not had to do too much true impact testing—aside from the time she went OTB after just discovering she was pregnant with her first child. Whoops. (Everything was fine, and now that kid rides his own tiny bike, also often recklessly.)

Find more of Stasia’s work on her Treeline Review author page.

July 14th, 2026, with a new best budget cot, and a new cot tested
Home → Gear Reviews → Camping

Finding a good camping cot is harder than it should be. Most have hinges that stick, bars that require a second person to force into place, and frames that wobble once assembled. Cots should be comfortable, easy to assemble, and stable, and after two years of testing, we found few actually meet all three criteria.

To find the ones that do, we gathered a dozen testers of different body shapes and sizes, ages, and sleep styles, from self-described hot sleepers to cold sleepers, and tested across festivals, campgrounds, month-long summer camps, and backpacking trips in Montana, Oregon, and California. We even tested with a few dogs who turned out to have opinions of their own. Collectively, we've spent more than 60 nights sleeping on cots for this article.

What separates a good camping cot from a frustrating one comes down to how reliably the locking mechanism holds after repeated assembly and disassembly, how stable the frame feels under a sleeping person, whether the dimensions fit different body sizes, and how the packed size and weight work for how you actually travel to your campsite.

Top Pick: The Kelty Lowdown Cot earns our Best Overall award. It stood out for an easy and secure setup that one person can manage without forcing, a stable frame that never wobbled during testing, a generous 27.5-inch width, a carry case that actually fits the cot without a fight, and a weight under 5 pounds that makes it viable for backpack-in camping.

We create reader-supported, objective gear reviews independently selected by our editors. This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission, without costing you an extra cent. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.

Comparison table

The winners

Best overall camping cot: Kelty Lowdown Cot

Best for: Summer camp, car camping, rafting
Weight: 4 lbs. 12.8 oz.
Weight limit: 300 lbs.
Height: 6.7 in.
Dimensions folded: 17 x 7 x 7 in.
Dimension unfolded: 75 x 27.5 in.
What we liked: Easy and secure set-up, lightweight, value for the price, among the widest
What we didn’t like: Could be longer

The Kelty Lowdown Cot is our overall winner for best overall camping cot. It's easy and straightforward to set up. It stays secure and doesn't wobble when you're sitting or sleeping on it. It feels as comfortable as cots that cost twice the price. And at 4 lb 12 oz, it is relatively lightweight and compact so you could even backpack with it. 

The Kelty Lowdown is among the most compact cots we tested and comes with a convenient carry case with a shoulder strap (and actually fits inside without a hassle). The Kelty Lowdown is also one of the more affordable camping cots, offering everything we wanted at one of the best prices among the cots we tested.

Hanging out on the Kelty Lowdown Cot.

Author Liz Thomas testing the Kelty Lowdown Cot.

A closeup of the Kelty Lowdown Cot sleeve.

Our testers spent more than a month sleeping on the Kelty Lowdown Cot and found it among the most comfortable. It stays secure, and we never felt like it was going to collapse or fold in on itself, as happened with other cots we tested.

The Kelty Lowdown cot is simple to assemble. You unfold the two support poles and slide them vertically into the pockets. Then you unfold the legs and snap them into place horizontally along the cot. We didn't even need directions, though they come printed on the carry case. Like all cots, snapping into place took some pressure, though it was easier on the Kelty Lowdown Cot than many similar cots we tested. 

The only drawback of the Kelty Lowdown is that we wish it were longer. At 75 inches long, we couldn't fit a 6-foot-long sleeping pad and our pillow above it. Taller campers over 6 feet tall may want to consider the Helinox Cot Max Convertible. However, the Kelty Lowdown is among the widest cots we tested at 27.5 inches, making it among the more size-inclusive cots.

Best camping cot for bad back: Helinox Cot Max Convertible

Best for: Backpacking, pack rafting, firefighting
Weight: 6 pounds, 6 ounces
Weight limit: 320 pounds
Height: 6.5” (15” with optional leg extensions)
Dimensions folded: 22.8 x 6.9 x 6.9 inches
Dimension unfolded: 82.7 x 29.5 x 6.7 inches
What we liked: Comfort, easiest to set up with clever locking mechanism requires less force than other cots, longer height was more comfortable for taller campers (and campers of all sizes), higher max weight limit, sturdiness despite being lightweight
What we didn’t like: Price

The Helinox Cot Max Convertible is our winner for best camping cot for a bad back. We'd argue that the main benefit of a camping cot over a camping mattress or sleeping pad is that it better supports the back. Of all the cots we tested, the Helinox Cot Max Convertible was the best for bad backs and comfort.

Check with your medical professional before choosing a camp cot, but for those with back issues, the Helinox Cot Max Convertible was a lifesaver. It made camping on the ground possible for campers who said they thought they had to give up their camping days.

For comfort and ease of use, we think the Helinox Cot Max Convertible is the best camping cot for bad backs. Support for bad backs doesn't always mean extra padding. Instead, it means easy to set up and security and stability–something we didn't find in any of the padded camp cots we tested.

A 6’ tester on the Helinox Cot Max Convertible Camping cot.

Showing plenty of room on the Helinox Cot Max Convertible cot.

All tucked in on the Helinox Cot Max Convertible cot.

The Helinox Cot Max Convertible is surprisingly compact despite having the longest length of 82", accommodating campers over 6-feet. It also has the highest weight limit of any cot we tested.

The Helinox Convertible Max is one of the easiest cots to set up, with a clever locking system that requires less force to align than any other cot we tested. It's a small thing, but after a long day of hiking, we really appreciated not having to use extra energy for setup.

While the price rivals that of luxury camping mattresses, the Helinox Cot Max Convertible is one of those gear items that can last for decades of carting around and use while camping, at outdoor festivals, at campgrounds, and while backpacking in the backcountry. Although we've only been testing for two years, the Helinox Cot Max Convertible is versatile and feels like outdoor gear that can last a lifetime.

Our campers reported that it felt notably roomier and more luxurious than the Kelty Lowdown. This isn't just because the dimensions are wider and longer. The design feels like there is more usable space. The Helinox Cot Max Convertible has scaffolding rods that go right up to the edge of the fabric sleeping platform. Additionally, the fabric is less slippery than the Kelty Lowdown, so there's less sliding around, especially if you use a sleeping pad on top of your cot.

Cots, as a category, generally require a frustrating amount of force to assemble. With some of the cots we tested, it sometimes took multiple campers a lot of combined muscle and swearing to get all the parts in place, especially the first time we assembled them. That's not the case with the Helinox Cot Max Convertible. Although I realize this clever locking mechanism contributes to the higher price, I can't emphasize enough how much easier it is to set this one up, especially if you are solo.  

Like all the cots we recommend, the Helinox Max Cot Convertible's locking mechanism is secure and won't wobble, slide, or buckle. The feet stay in place and can handle uneven surfaces, from rocks to fat Jeffrey pine cones underneath.

Another unique feature we liked about the Helinox Cot Max Convertible is its ability to convert into a high cot. Some campers prefer a higher cot so they can store their gear underneath, especially when quarters are tight in a camping tent. You can attach legs (sold separately) to the struts, and that will lift it a total of 15” off the ground

Ultimately, the main drawback of the Helinox Cot Max Convertible is the price. There is no getting around the fact that this is a very expensive cot. However, it's similarly priced to other top-of-the-line camping mattresses and costs less than the Hest Sleep System.

If you haven't been able to sleep while camping due to a bad back and have found other cots too narrow or with weight limits that aren't high enough, then this cot is worth it.

Best ultralight backpacking cot: Helinox Lite Cot

Best for: Backpacking, pack rafting, firefighting
Weight: 2 lbs. 13 oz.
Weight limit: 265 lbs.
Height: 5 in.
Dimensions folded: 5 x 21 in.
Dimension unfolded: 73 x 23.5 in.
What we liked: Comfort, easy to set up with a clever locking mechanism that requires less force than other cots
What we didn’t like: Price, lower weight limit

The Helinox Lite Cot is our winner for best ultralight camping cot. At 2 lbs 13 oz, this cot is among the lightest you can find, making it a good choice for backpacking. The Helinox Lite Cot is incredibly compact and comes with its own carrying case that takes up barely more space than some sleeping pads. 

The Helinox Lite Cot comes with many of the same features we like in the Helinox Cot Max Convertible, but at a lower weight and price. That makes it a clear winner for backpacking. The Lite Cot is not only the lightest cot we tested but also functional, easy to set up, stable, and comfortable.

Despite the lighter weight, it comes with the same clever, easy-to-lock mechanisms as the Helinox Cot Max Convertible. It is also stable on uneven surfaces.

Instead, the Lite Cot saves weight compared to the Cot Max by being smaller. At 73 inches long, it is shorter than the Cot Max and the Kelty Lowdown, and it is also narrower. This helps keep the weight down, barely weighing more than a conventional backpacking sleeping pad and leagues lighter than a camping mattress. Yet, for wider-bodied people, these may not be the best choice. 

Ultimately, the main drawback of the Helinox Lite Cot is the price. But if you're backpacking, the Lite Cot is the clear winner for best ultralight camping cot, weighing almost half as much as the nearest competitor. 

Many backpackers say they cannot sleep comfortably on sleeping pads anymore and have voiced to me their concern that their backpacking days may be over. The Helinox Lite Cot could just be the way to stay out there while actually getting a good night's rest.

Best Heavy-duty Camping Cot: REI Campwell Folding Cot

Best for: Car camping, sleepovers
Weight: 17 lbs. 13 oz.
Weight limit: 300 lbs.
Height: 18 inches
Dimensions folded: 37 x 8 x 8 inches
Dimension unfolded: 76 x 25 inches
What we liked: Incredible easy assembly/disassembly, stable and locks in place, convenient carry case, storage space underneath
What we didn’t like: 360-degree ground-adjustable feet each need securing, heavier, and less compact than other options

The REI Campwell Folding Cot is the best heavy-duty camping cot. It's heavier than other camping cots we tested, but it makes up for it with setup speed and durability. Unlike every other cot we tested, its assembly and disassembly take seconds–not minutes. It comes with a convenient carry case and a shoulder strap, making it easy to move around. 

Unlike other folding style cots, it feels secure and doesn't buckle when you sit or lie on it. With a higher height than other cots, there is plenty of storage space underneath to store a backpack, camping lantern, extra layers, and a water bottle. This makes the Campwell Cot a good choice for when multiple people share a camping tent, and space is at a premium. 

The Campwell Cot is so easy and intuitive that we second-guessed ourselves because every other cot was such a pain. Many heavy-duty folding-style cots feel like complicated origami. That isn't the case with the Campwell Cot.

Unfolding the REI Campwell Cot.

Author Liz Thomas reclining on the REI Campwell Cot

The REI Campwell Cot folded up and in its stuff sack.

The REI Campwell Cot inside a camping tent.

Our one issue with the Campwell Cot is the 360-degree ground-adjustable feet. Designed to provide stability on uneven ground, we found the feet themselves would jostle into uneven angles, even when the ground was flat. The REI Wonderland Cot (review below) uses similar feet, and we find it annoying on that model, too. However, the Campwell Cot's body stays securely flat, so you can go in and level out each foot. For comparison, we had trouble keeping the REI Wonderland's body flat, which made it all the more difficult to level out each foot. 

High-rise cots, as a genre, will generally feel colder than lower cots because more cold air can accumulate under them. This can be a great win on a hot and humid summer day. It can also be annoying on a late-fall camping trip. If you are a cold sleeper or will be camping in cooler conditions, we recommend pairing the REI Campwell cot with an insulated sleeping pad. 

The REI Campwell Cot is heavier and less compact than some of the other cots we tested (though admittedly a lot more compact than the other folding cots we tested). However, that is something to keep in mind when packing up a loaded car with camping gear for the weekend–especially if you have a Campwell Cot for each person in the family.

Best affordable cot: Zempire W Leg Stretcher V2

Best for: Sleepovers, car camping
Weight: 12 lbs. 7 oz.
Weight limit: 330 lbs.
Height: 7.5 in.
Dimensions folded: 27.2 x 9.1 x 3.1 in.
Dimension unfolded: 76.4 x 25.8 
What we liked: Ease of set up, convenient carry case, lightweight
What we didn’t like: Stitching isn't straight

The Zempire W Leg Stretcher V2 is the best budget camping cot and nearly won best overall cot. It is similar to the Kelty Lowdown Cot but has a more intuitive design that we found easier to set up and secure. It's midweight and comes with its own carry case.

We tested this camping cot by sleeping on it for nearly 30 days straight while camping in the Eastern Sierra. It felt secure and never wobbled or lost its legs. It was easy to transport from campsite to campsite as well. 

The Zempire W Leg Stretcher V2 has a different set-up system than other cots we tested. It has built-in leg-lock hooks that secure the stretcher in an open position. It's got a rust-resistant and weather-resistant frame that will last for many years.

Our only complaint with this cot is that the stitching on the double-stitched pole sleeves wasn't completely straight. We don't think this impacts its strength (this is a heavy-duty cot!), but it bothered us aesthetically. We think that given that this cot is cheaper than the other cots we tested (except the Coleman), it is a minimal price to pay for such a great value in a camping cot.

Zempire W Leg Stretcher V2

The author Liz Thomas is sitting outside on the Zempire W Leg Stretcher V2 cot.

The author Liz Thomas on a Zempire W Leg Stretcher V2 inside a tent.

The Zempire W Leg Stretcher V2 turned upside down to show its legs.

The author reclining and testing a Zempire W Leg Stretcher V2 inside a tent.

A closeup of a leg of the Zempire W Leg Stretcher V2 camping cot.

The author is lying on the Zempire W Leg Stretcher V2 camping cot.

The author Liz Thomas is sitting on the edge of the Zempire W Leg Stretcher V2 camping cot.

Other camping cots we tested

Coleman Trailhead II

Best for: Car camping, sleepovers
Weight: 21.5 lbs
Weight limit: 300 lbs.
Height: 17 in.
Dimensions folded: 38.1 x 8.5 x 4.7 inches
Dimensions unfolded: 73 x 35 inches
What we liked: Value for the price, dimensions
What we didn’t like: Hard to get in the end struts/cross bars, heavy

There are no frills with the Coleman Trailhead II, but the price is right, and it's often on sale. The Trailhead II cot is easy to find at a big box store before a last-minute trip to the mountains. 

While it won't be the fanciest, it's more reliable than similarly priced options. The folding setup isn't quite as intuitive or secure as the REI Campwell cot. It unfolds like the Campwell but still requires you to add the end strut/crossbar to secure the head of the frame, like in the Kelty Lowdown or Helinox. It took some muscle to get the second end strut into place, too.

The Coleman Trailhead II has the widest dimensions of any cot we tested—a whopping 35 inches. This is great for bigger-bodied folks and campers who move around in the night. However, this also meant that we couldn't fit as many of these cots in a camping tent. A so-called 4-person tent can't really fit more than two of these comfortably if you want any room for your stuff. The 17-inch height on the Coleman Trailhead II is helpful for storing gear underneath, though. 

The Coleman Trailhead II is one of the heavier cots we considered, which annoyed some testers but was fine for others. It comes with a convenient carry bag. 

For a budget product, the Coleman Trailhead II still comes with a one-year warranty. All in all, with the Coleman Trailhead II cot, you get a similar product to the REI Campwell cot, just heavier and less refined. Depending on your individual tolerance for struggles with leverage during assembly and disassembly and for increased weight/bulkiness when bringing it to your campsite, the Trailhead II could serve you well.

KingCamp Ultralight Cot

Best for: Car camping, backpacking
Weight: 4.9 lbs
Weight limit: 264.6 lbs
Height: 4.7 inches
Dimensions folded: 14 x 5.1 x 5.1 inches
Dimension unfolded: 75 x 25 inches

The KingCamp Ultralight Cot is an Amazon bestseller with a design similar to the Helinox Lite Cot, at a lower price. However, we think it is worth investing in the Helinox instead. The lever-locking mechanism on the KingCamp Ultralight looks similar to the Helinox, but required so much force to ratchet into place that we started breaking out the wrench. It took multiple campers and a lot of muscle to get the bars into place. To set it up, we eventually had to call over our friend from another tent (who does a lot of CrossFit) to help us out.

REI Co-op Wonderland Comfort Cot

Best for: Guest bedroom, car camping
Weight: 20 lbs.
Weight limit: 300 lbs.
Height: 14 in.
Dimensions folded: 33 x 32 x 8.5 in.
Dimension unfolded: 82 x 31.5 in.

The REI Wonderland Comfort Cot was a strong contender for best camping cot with mattress. With built-in padding, this cot looks more like a recliner than the other cots we tested. We had no issue with the padding on this one. 

The big issue with this cot is securing it in place. In our testing, it folded on itself. It also has the same annoying, unstable feet as the REI Campwell Cot. Because the body of this cot doesn't stay in place, the foot issue becomes nearly impossible to correct. This cot doesn't come with a carry case and takes up a bunch of space in the car or in the garage. 

If you want padding, you're better off going with the most luxurious camping mattress you can find, like the Hest Dually, Exped MegaMat, or LuxeMat. While those mattresses will take up a fair amount of space in your vehicle or garage, they still take up less space than the Wonderland Comfort Cot and are much, much easier to set up.

What to look for in a camping cot

Locking mechanisms, stability, and security

Find one that folds and locks easily. A big differentiator for me between so-so camp cots and the best camp cots is their folding and locking mechanisms. Some set up more easily than others. Some moving parts get stuck, and figuring out how to unstick them can be even more annoying if you're doing it at night while mosquitoes are buzzing by. Practice setting up at home with plenty of light–and make sure that it is locked and secured before sitting or lying on it!

Weight

We tested camping cots from 2.8 pounds to 21.5 pounds. How lightweight you want your cot to be depends on how you'll be using it. Will you be backpacking or using it at a walk-in campsite? You may want a lighter cot. Can you pull up right next to where you're setting up the cot? It may be worth going with something heavier. 

Packability

We tested cots that take up more room than some outdoor furniture, all the way to cots will fit in lightweight backpacking backpacks. What sort of packability is suitable for you depends on where you'll be taking it, how you store it during the off-season, and what can fit in your vehicle.

Sleep area

When choosing a cot, get the dimensions right. Sure, you may be able to save a few bucks by going for a shorter or narrower camping cot, but if your feet are hanging off the end, you aren't going to get a great night's sleep. Similarly, make sure your cot is wide enough for the broadest part of your body–with several inches to share. 

Make sure it will fit in your tent. Many so-called 4-person or 6-person tents actually can't fit 4 or 6 camping cots. Get out the tape measure to find the dimensions of your camping tent. Remember to add some buffer for personal space and for storing shoes, gear, etc.

Load capacity

Most of the cots we tested have a load capacity of 250 to 300 pounds. Remember that load capacity includes the weight of you plus your gear, including a sleeping bag and camp mattress (if you're using one). 

Durability

We think a camping cot is a piece of gear that should last multiple generations of campers. We looked for durable materials and locking mechanisms made of metal that won't break or stick. We also considered the thickness of the material on the platform.

Sleeping height

We tested low cots and high cots. Generally, testers felt more comfortable sleeping lower to the ground, so they didn't worry about rolling off. However, when the whole family is sharing the tent, it can be nice to have high cots for the extra storage space underneath. 

Comfort

Comfort is arguably the most important thing to consider when choosing a cot. All testers found camp cots more comfortable than the sleeping pads or camping mattresses we tested side by side. In fact, some testers found the cots to be more comfortable than real mattresses. 

However, to get that comfort, campers had to feel stable and secure in the locking mechanisms on their cot. So while the comfort of our five winners was excellent and nearly indistinguishable among them, the comfort of the other cots we tested left something to be desired.

Support

Cots work by providing a taut but giving fabric suspended between a scaffolding of (usually) metal rods. The result is that the fabric supports the back as you sleep. None of the fabric cots we tested sank or sagged, unless there was a problem with securing the metal rods in place. 

Setup and takedown

Some of the cots we tested took seconds to set up and take down. Others literally took an hour, plus the time it took driving the cot home (once fully assembled), where we worked on it with tools from the garage. We rated setup and takedown as among the most important features of a cot. If it was easy, intuitive, and could be done at the end of a tiring day of hiking, we considered it a win.

Camping cots vs. sleeping pads and mattresses

Sometimes you want to use camp cots and inflatable sleeping pads together.

Camping cots:

Pros: 

• Comfortable night of sleep

• High-rise cots have storage underneath

• No need to deflate from night to night like camping mattresses 

• Can be used with sleeping pads for more insulation

Cons: 

• Weight limits

• Lacks insulation, so they are best suited for summer 

• Some models can be tippy or difficult to set up 

• Generally heavier and bulkier than sleeping pads

• You can roll off 

Sleeping pads:

Pros: 

• Lightweight and compact for backpacking

• Takes up less space in a vehicle or backpack

• Multiple sleeping pads can fit inside a camping tent better than cots or mattresses

• Can be used with cots to add extra insulation

Cons: 

• Generally less comfortable than cots or camping mattresses

• Generally narrower than cots or camping mattresses

• Can easily slide off the sleeping pad due to the slippery surface fabric

• Sometimes, sleeping pads can be loud (from the crinkling of the Mylar insulation inside)

See our top choices for Best sleeping pads.

Camping mattresses:

Pros: 

• Better insulation than cots, so they can be used in winter

• Can be used with sheets from home, so it can feel more comfortable to some people

• Generally have a bigger sleeping area than camping cots

• No weight limits

• Lower to the ground, so less likely to slip off or lose pillows, etc. 

• Stability or tippiness is not an issue

Cons: 

• Can be bulkier and heavier than sleeping pads or some cots

• Inflation can take some time

See our choices for Best camping mattresses.

Camping cots care and maintenance tips

Cleaning fabrics 

If you get dust, sand, or mud on the fabric of your camp cot, you can usually spot-clean with a damp cloth and maybe a bit of biodegradable soap. If it's a bigger area, you may want to consider handwashing the fabric. 

Lubricating hinges and frame joints

Camp cot frames are designed to last a long time, but may require occasional lubrication of hinges with silicone-based lube. 

Storage to avoid fabric sag

Camping cot fabric can stretch out over time, so it's essential to disassemble and put your cot away when you're not using it. It's okay to leave it up in your tent for multiple days or even weeks, but you shouldn't keep your cot assembled indefinitely. Give the fabric some time to rest and stretch back to its original shape, and store it out of sunlight in a cool place (heat can sometimes make fabrics stretchier). 

Repairing tears and replacing hardware

It's rare, but if you notice any fraying or tears in the fabric of your camp cot, repair them with patches. If it starts to affect stability and safety, contact the manufacturer for additional parts, which they may often sell at a discount. If any hardware starts to get sticky or loose, you can also contact the manufacturer for a replacement part. 

FAQ

• What weight capacity do I need in a camping cot?

  To find the right weight capacity, multiply your body weight by 1.2 to build in a safety margin, then add the weight of your sleeping bag, pad, and any gear you keep on the cot overnight. Most camping cots are rated between 250 and 320 pounds. If you are close to a cot's rating limit, size up rather than relying on the maximum, since repeated stress at or near the limit accelerates wear on the frame and fabric.

• Can I use a camping cot on uneven ground?

  Most camping cots handle mild unevenness reasonably well, but results vary significantly by design. Cots with adjustable feet, like the REI Campwell, are designed for uneven terrain, though the feet themselves can shift if the cot is not first secured flat. Low-profile cots with flexible frames, like the Helinox models, conform naturally to slight surface irregularities. On significantly uneven ground, clearing rocks and debris before setup makes a bigger difference than any adjustable foot system.

• Do camping cots provide enough insulation from the cold ground?

  Camping cots provide less insulation than sleeping pads or camping mattresses because cold air circulates freely beneath them. The higher the cot, the more cold air accumulates below, and the colder you will sleep. If you are camping in cool conditions or run cold, placing an insulated sleeping pad on top of the cot adds meaningful warmth. R-value is the standard measure of insulation in sleeping pads, and a pad rated R-3 or higher will make a significant difference on a cot in temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Are camping cots suitable for backpacking?

  Most camping cots are too heavy for backpacking, but a small category of ultralight cots is specifically designed for it. The Helinox Lite Cot at 2 lbs 13 oz is the clearest example, packing down to roughly the size of a sleeping pad and weighing less than many backpacking tents. The trade-off compared to a sleeping pad is the added setup time and a lower sleeping height. For backpackers who struggle to sleep on pads, the weight penalty of an ultralight cot is often worth it.

• Can two people sleep on a camping cot?

  No. Camping cots are designed for a single occupant, and their weight limits reflect individual use. Even the widest cots we tested, like the Coleman Trailhead II at 35 inches, do not provide enough space for two adults to sleep comfortably. Exceeding the weight limit also increases the risk of frame failure, particularly at the hinge and locking points where stress is highest. For couples camping together, two separate cots is the practical solution.

• Is a camping cot warmer or cooler than sleeping on the ground?

  Warmer and cooler at the same time, depending on the context. In summer heat, a cot is significantly cooler than sleeping on warm ground because air circulates underneath and around you. In cold weather, that same airflow becomes a liability, making a cot feel colder than a well-insulated sleeping pad directly on the ground. Season and temperature should guide the choice: cots excel in warm conditions, while ground-level sleeping systems with high R-value insulation outperform cots in the cold.

• Can I fit multiple camping cots inside a tent?

  It depends on the dimensions of the tent and the cot. Most tents marketed as four-person or six-person cannot actually fit that many cots side by side once you account for the cot width, tent wall angles, and space for gear. A good practice is to measure your tent's interior floor dimensions and then calculate how many cots fit with a few inches of clearance on each side. Narrower cots like the Helinox models fit more easily in smaller tents, while wide cots like the Coleman Trailhead II, at 35 inches, will quickly fill the floor space of a standard family camping tent.

• Do I need a sleeping pad on top of a camping cot?

  In warm weather, a sleeping pad on top of a cot is optional. Most cots provide enough support and comfort on their own during summer camping. In cooler conditions, a sleeping pad on the cot surface adds meaningful insulation and is worth carrying. A thin, closed-cell foam pad or a lightweight inflatable pad works well for this purpose without adding much bulk. Some campers also prefer the extra cushioning a pad provides, regardless of temperature, particularly side sleepers who want more surface conformity than a taut cot fabric offers.

How we researched and tested

We have been testing camping cots for the past two years in everything from sub-freezing temperatures to balmy summer days. We tested in campgrounds in Montana and outdoor festivals in Oregon. We tested on backpacking trips in the San Gabriel Mountains. We also tested cots side by side for more than a month at a summer camp in the Sierra Nevada mountains. 

To find the best cots for most people, we gathered a dozen testers with different body shapes and sizes, ages, and metabolisms, ranging from self-described "hot sleepers" to "cold sleepers."  We even tested with a few dogs to see how comfortable they found the cots. 

We tested each cot with different brands and types of sleeping pads, sleeping bags, and even backpacking quilts. We also tested in camping tents and backpacking tents of different sizes. 

To test how slippery cot fabric is, we tested cots with and without sleeping pads, depending on how much extra insulation we needed.

We tested cots while sleeping inside camping tents and directly under the stars. 

We evaluated camp cots based on different needs, taking into account the tradeoffs between lightweight cots vs. comfort-focused options. Generally, across all the cots, we used the same criteria: comfort, ease of setup and disassembly, stability, frame security, and durability. At the end, we factored in any extra features and the overall price when it came to categories like the best budget option. 

• Compared cots side by side
• Used them for up to a month at a time
• Tested inside tents and under the stars
• Set them up on flat and uneven ground
• Paired them with pads, bags, and quilts

• Sleeping comfort and support
• Setup and takedown
• Stability and locking security
• Fit for different body sizes
• Weight, packed size, and value

Why you should trust us / About the author

Liz Thomas is an award-winning Los Angeles-based writer and Editor-in-Chief of Treeline Review. A former Fastest Known Time (FKT) record holder on the Appalachian Trail, Liz came to Treeline Review from the New York Times/Wirecutter, the New York Times’ product review site, where she was a staff writer on the outdoor team.

Liz has talked gear on Good Morning America (TV), in The Wall Street Journal, The Guardian, BuzzFeed, Men’s Journal, Women’s Health, Gizmodo, and Outside.

To test the best camping cots, she and 16 other campers tested them side by side for two years, from Montana to the Sierra. Collectively, we've spent more than 60 nights sleeping on cots for this article. 

You can read more about Liz at her Wikipedia page or on her website. See all her Treeline Review articles on her author page.

July 14th, 2026, updated with a new winner for double camping chair, camping chair for bad back, best beach chair, and compact camping chair
Home > Gear Reviews > Camping

A camping chair is one of those pieces of gear where the difference between a good one and a mediocre one is felt immediately, whether you're sitting around a fire after a long hike, watching the sunset at a music festival, or trying to stay comfortable for three hours at a tailgate. The right chair is one you actually want to sit in, not just one that technically functions as a seat.

We've spent three years testing camping chairs on rafting expeditions, backpacking trips, music festivals, lakeside camping, and backyard gatherings, drawing on seven years of outdoor guiding experience in Alaska and Colorado to understand what holds up across real conditions rather than just showroom floors.

What separates a genuinely good camping chair from one that ends up abandoned at a campsite comes down to how well the fabric holds its tension rather than sagging after a season of use, how easy the setup and breakdown is when you're tired at the end of a long day, how stable the frame is on uneven ground, and how the weight and packed size balance against the comfort level you actually get.

Top Pick: The Kijaro Dual Lock Camp Chair earns our Best Overall award. It stood out for a dual-lock system that keeps the chair from collapsing when open and from unfolding during transport, tightly stretched fabric panels that eliminate the sag most camp chairs develop over time, two cup holders and an organizer pocket, a 300-pound weight capacity, and a price that undercuts most of the competition by a significant margin.

Related: Best Camping Tables

We create reader-supported, objective gear reviews independently selected by our editors. This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission — without costing you an extra cent. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.

Camping Chair Comparison Table

Interested in camping gear? See our Camping section for our most popular stories.

• Best Camping Tents

• Best Camping Sleeping Bags

• Best Camping Mattresses

• Best Camping Coolers

The Best Camping Chairs

The Best Overall Camping Chair: Kijaro Dual Lock

Unfolded Dimensions (inches): 37.4 x 35.4 x 26.0
Seat Height: 20 inches
Weight: 9.4 lbs
Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
Drink holder: 2
What we liked: Hits the sweet spot for price, design, quality, comfort, and ease of use, locking mechanism, more durable than similar chairs, no sagging in fabric after use, color options
What we didn’t like: Not as good for shorter people, there are lighter-weight options out there

We chose the Kijaro Dual Lock as the Best Overall Camp Chair out of its competitors based on the design, quality, comfort, price, and ease of use.

Designed as a folding chair, the dual-lock system on the Kijaro Dual Lock allows the chair to lock in place when set up (it won’t collapse on you!). In addition, its components lock together when folded for easier transportation (it won’t open on you!). Finally, the fabric across the back and seat panels is flat and stretched tightly, eliminating a slouch-inducing “sag” that other camp chairs can cause. All this adds up to a solid chair and a reasonable price that looks good and won’t let you down.

• Lumbar support 

  The angle of the back panel to the seat panel on the Kijaro Dual Lock is designed to produce a “correct” posture, which provides lumbar support and helps with back pain. This portable camping chair was an absolute favorite for those who prefer a better posture, no-sag seats, and sturdy construction. It also scored well with taller folks (but was a little difficult for shorter people).

• Portability

  The Kijaro Dual Lock also features an attached carrying strap (in addition to the storage bag with a belt) to make transportation easy, mesh cup holders for convenience, and padded armrests for comfort. Some did find the 9.5 pounds mildly challenging to carry, but most were pleased with the ease of transportation and weight. Reviews also applauded its multiple bright color options. (Bonus: Kijaro also makes a larger version of this chair that can sustain up to 400 pounds.)

Most Comfortable Camp Chair: Nemo Stargaze Reclining Camp Chair

Unfolded Dimensions (inches): 44h x 23.5w x 31.5l
Seat Height: varies (recliner)
Weight: 7 lbs 15 oz
Weight Capacity: 300 lbs
Drink holder: 2
What we liked: Fast and intuitive easy to set up, aeronautical grade aluminum is very sturdy, fun to recline and rock, stability,
What we didn’t like: Weight limit, price

If you’ve got a little more to spend on a camp chair to last a long time, we love the Nemo Stargaze Reclining Camp Chair and it wins our Most Comfortable Camp Chair award. Unlike other reclining or rocking styles, it has a sturdy base, fast, intuitive set-up, and compact breakdown. 

Even folks who never thought they’d want a reclining camp chair fell in love with the Nemo Stargaze. Even testers who hate assembling gear would run to have this be the first thing up in camp. It’s the ultimate way to relax and watch the sunset chair that will make you the envy of the campground.

• Design

  Designed as a hammock-style chair, it allows you to rock, recline, and swing— all with a base that feels more secure than other camp chairs we considered. We like this chair so much it made our Best Gifts for Campers gift guide. 

  The Nemo Stargaze is a rocker/recliner, but it stands out due to its sturdy base that allows you to set up in rocky and sandy environments, which is rare for any camp chair.

• Stability

  The base has a low center of gravity, providing more stability than traditional camping chairs. Nemo’s website says it is made of aircraft-grade aluminum. In its most recent model, Nemo has removed all plastic parts (the section that failed in an earlier version was plastic). Now, the chair feels engineered for stability above all else. We kept it up during windy nights in camp and were shocked to find it unmoved.

  One other thing to be aware of with the Stargazer is the weight limit: 300 pounds.

• Ease of Set-up

  Two locking mechanisms suspend the hammock/seat. We were concerned it would be difficult to fasten the seat-hammock to the base, but it was secure and easy to set up. The newest version has been engineered to be even easier to lock into place.

  In the newest version, the backrest support poles are integrated into the backrest to cut down on set up steps. The anodized poles naturally slot into place and there are few pieces to keep track of. 

  The directions are sewn into the carrying case, but even our least spatially-inclined tester had no problem setting up the Stargazer without instructions. Still, it’s worth practicing once or twice before taking it out on a trip.

• Portability

  We were also impressed by the carrying case on the Nemo. With most other camping gear we’ve tested, getting your item back into the carrying case is often a huge pain, but the Nemo Stargaze carrying case made it easy to fold and pack. 

  We hate carrying camp chairs generally, but found the handle and carrying case comfortable and generously sized enough to sling over our shoulder for a half mile walk down to the beach from the parking lot.

• Features

  The Stargaze also has luxurious features like a padded headrest, a deep no-spill cup holder, and a phone/stash pocket big enough to hold an iPad. However, we would’ve preferred the two-cup holder design found in other camp chairs (after all, a cupholder can usually fit a phone). 

• Value

  The sturdy aircraft-grade parts and clever folding design make it more expensive than other chairs. However, we found we were more likely to reach for this chair than others we tested because of its comfort and ease of set-up and break-down. We've hauled this chair over thousands of miles of camping trips and imagine it lasting years of heavy use. In the end, we think it’s worth investing in a durable chair that will last.

Best double camping chair: Kelty Low Loveseat

Unfolded Dimensions (inches): 44h x 23.5w x 31.5l
Seat Height: 13.5 inches
Weight: 15.4 lbs
Weight Capacity: 500l bs
Cup holder: 4
What we liked: Comfort for two people, cupholders, low design makes sitting around a campfire easy, sturdy, fun colors
What we didn’t like: Weight, too tall for concert restrictions

When you want room for friends, the Kelty Low Loveseat brings camaraderie. This two-seater was one of the most beloved by reviewers as an outdoor loveseat option — and our testers loved it, too! So if you can get your hands on one (they tend to come in super limited stock), it’s a buy you won’t regret!

While the Kelty does weigh in at a whopping 15+ pounds, we promise that it makes up for its weight: it sports two insulated cupholders (with room for snacks!), adjustable armrest straps to accommodate different heights on either side, a slightly reclined backrest for comfort, a steel frame for significant support, and 42 inches of cushioned and insulated bench seat that supports up to 500 pounds. That’s plenty of room for you and your bestie (even your four-legged besties). 

The Kelty Low Loveseat has room for you and a (furry) friend.

The Kelty Low Loveseat has room for you and a friend.

You don't have to share the Kelty Low Loveseat with anyone. You can sprawl out in luxury!

• Versatility

  On road trips across the country to visit multiple friends, we were pleasantly surprised to see this camp chair in multiple outdoors people’s backyards for use as everyday patio furniture in the summer. Whether friends are having a backyard campfire or watching the sunset from the porch, the Kelty Low Loveseat seems to double as many people’s favorite home patio furniture, too.

• Portability

  One bonus that we love is that the roll-tote is padded (for durability) and can double as a firewood or gear tote. The strap is wide, which is comfortable for that stroll down to the riverside or across a field to a picnic. The three adjustable buckles work well when converting the roll-tote to a camping gear carrier and make packing way easier — no more trying to shove a camp chair into a tiny sleeve since this tote opens up flat (and can double as a dog blanket, if need be).

• Height

  At 13.5”, it may be a little too tall to bring to a concert, but it’s perfect for beach nights, Fourth of July cookouts, car camping, lake days, date night under the stars, or family reunions. 

• Our verdict

  Overall, our testers loved this portable chair for what it’s meant — a comfort-based low loveseat. It’s not for the lightweight thru-hikers, and it’s not for those with a lot of difficulty sitting down and standing up (the Kelty Low Loveseat in the not-low version may be a better pick for you). But we’re excited to set up the Kelty Low Loveseat and watch the stars car camping with our friends these summer nights.

Best Heavy Duty Camping Chair: Alps Mountaineering King Kong

Unfolded Dimensions (inches): 38h x 38w x 20l
Seat Height: 18 inches
Weight: 13 lbs
Weight Capacity: 800 lbs
Drink holder: 2
What we liked: Weight limit, straight forward design, dual cup holders, 3 storage pockets, comfort
What we didn’t like: Material can sag, weighs more than other chairs

Of all the heavy-duty camping chairs on the market, the ALPS Mountaineering King Kong is far and away the most highly praised (and highly purchased) camp chair out there. Out of the eight media review sites we looked at, seven of them gave the King Kong high reviews — and it has 4.7/5 stars on Amazon. Reviews praised the weight rating (800 pounds!), the sturdy construction (powder-coated steel frame and 600-denier ripstop fabric!), and the comfortable design of the King Kong.

The ALPS Mountaineering King Kong also comes with dual cup holders, two storage side pockets, and a large storage pocket on the back.

Even for lighter-weight campers, the King Kong chair is praised for its comfort.

One complaint that we found from users was occasional unwelcome pressure on the back of the legs, caused by a “sagging” seat putting more pressure on the back of the legs closer to the front edge of the seat. As a result, a few owners modified the King Kong by elevating the seat panel to alleviate pressure.

Best Budget Camping Chair: Coleman Cooler Quad

Unfolded Dimensions (inches): 40.5h x 37w x 24l 
Seat Height: 18 inches
Weight: 10 lbs
Weight Capacity: 325lbs
Drink holder: 1 + built-in 4-can cooler
What we liked: Price, lots of storage, cupholders
What we didn’t like: Material isn’t the sturdiest, sags, less support and stability than other chairs

We chose the Coleman Cooler Quad Chair as the Best Budget Camping Chair out of its competitors based on the price and Coleman’s lauded quality.

The Coleman Cooler Quad chair is designed as a classic folding chair and is just what you think of when picturing a summer barbecue or a cool fall tailgate.

• Features

  The Coleman features a padded seat and back, adjustable armrests, mesh cup holders, a magazine or tablet side pocket, and a soft cooler pouch (large enough for a small ice pack and up to 4 cans!). 

• Weight

  At just under 11 pounds, it’s light enough to toss in the car or carry a few down to the fishing hole.

• Value for the price

  Testers expressed their appreciation for the simple but comfortable design of the Coleman Cooler Quad with additional padding, extra storage, carrying case to make transportation easy — but most of all, they loved the quality for the price.

Best Ultralight Camping Chair: Helinox Chair Zero lt

Unfolded Dimensions (inches): 25.5 x 20.5 x 19.0"
Seat Height: 7.0 in
Weight: 1.1lbs
Weight Capacity: 265 lbs
Cup holder: 0
What we liked: Light enough to carry backpacking, compact, minimal design, easy to set up
What we didn’t like: Price, other choices are better for situations where weight isn’t your primary concern

When weight matters, the Helinox Chair Zero saves the day. The lightweight world (especially backpackers) could not sing enough praises about this 17-ounce lightweight backpacking chair. Rated to 265 pounds, this lightweight chair could carry its own weight on any trail — although other users found it better for concerts, days at the park, or throwing in the beach bag.

The Helinox Chair Zero is so comfortable, it had even ultralight backpackers contemplating bringing along this “luxury” item.

• Ease of assembly

  The Helinox Chair Zero is easy to assemble with a single shock-cord pole that locks into place once it’s unfolded. It comes with instructions but it took us less than 20 seconds to set it up even without reading them. That counts for a lot when you get into camp near dark and are tired!

• Durability and stability

  The frame is made of lightweight (but still sturdy) aluminum, and the seat is made out of ripstop polyester fabric for durability. It’s held up in the rain. The legs lock and feel stable, even on uneven ground. Its only weakness was setting it up on sand or decomposing leaves, but most chairs would do well in those conditions.

• Comparison to the REI Flexlite

  We also tested the REI Co-Op Flexlite Air Chair, REI’s take on a 1-pound camp chair. Unfortunately, we didn’t find the REI Flexlite quite as stable as the Helinox camping chair.

  The key difference is the placement of the cross bars. The Helinox’s bars are lateral, dispersing weight between the supports evenly. In contrast, the Flexlite’s cross bars are front-back, which distributes weight in a way that tips if you lean too far in one direction.

• Portability

  Another plus? It’s an extremely compact camping chair. The Helinox folding camping chair folds down to 4”x 4"x 14" in its stuff sack — about the size of a Nalgene water bottle and it fits into the side pockets of a backpacking backpack. We easily fit it into a lightweight backing backpack and have even fit it in ultralight fastpacking backpacks.

• Value

  The only downside to the Helinox Chair Zero is the price. It’s not an investment to be taken lightly. But from the many people we know who own this chair, it’s an investment worth making.

  If you’re eyeing the Zero and want something more affordable, the Helinox Chair One has long been considered the gold standard for backpacking chairs. The Chair One has almost all the benefits of the Zero but weighs a little more.

Best Camping Chair With Footrest:

Alps Mountaineering Escape Chair

Unfolded Dimensions (inches): 32h x 36w x 41l
Seat Height: 17 inches
Weight: 10 lbs
Weight Capacity: 500 lbs
What we liked: Integrated footrest is at the right angle, weight limit
What we didn’t like: Not as durable as other chairs, lots of moving parts

If you’re using your chair often, we think it’s worth investing in some features that make it extra comfortable. We liked that the Alps Mountaineering Escape Chair with Footrest because it has an attachable footrest but is still a portable camping chair.

At 13.5”, it may be a little too tall to bring to a concert, but it’s perfect for beach nights, Fourth of July cookouts, car camping, lake days, date night under the stars, or family reunions. 

One bonus that we love is that the roll-tote is padded (for durability) and can double as a firewood or gear tote. The strap is wide, which is comfortable for that stroll down to the riverside or across a field to a picnic. The three adjustable buckles work well when converting the roll-tote to a camping gear carrier and make packing way easier — no more trying to shove a camp chair into a tiny sleeve since this tote opens up flat (and can double as a dog blanket, if need be).

Best Camp Chair For Beach Day: YETI Hondo Beach Chair

Unfolded Dimensions (inches): 30.5 x 29.4 x 25.5"
Seat Height: 8.0 in
Weight: 11.1 lbs
Weight Capacity: 350 lbs
What we liked: sturdy and stable on sand, quality materials, quick-drying UV-resistant materials, lightweight with easy carry strap, 350 lb weight capacity, 4 reclining modes
What we didn’t like: Only one cup holder

If you are at the beach a lot, you can find no better chair than the Yeti Hondo Beach Chair because it is designed to not sink into the sand. It has long crossbars footpads and bars, so it is better suited for sand than other chairs we considered. 

In addition to the beach, we often use this chair at sandy campsites in the desert. The sturdy base means you won't sink in like what happens with other chairs.

Plus, it's easy to set up. Just unfold it and you're good to go. It's got a sturdy strap that this lightweight chair one of the most portable camping chairs we tested.

We also liked the low height, which made it feel more stable on sand and it was easier to reach down to grab the beach towel or the sandwiches on the picnic blanket.

True, the Yeti Hondo Beach Chair is expensive. But after testing dozens of chairs in sand, this is among the only chairs that don't sink or collapse in the sand. The only other chairs that performed anywhere close are either discontinued or not made of sturdy materials. If you go to the beach often and intend to for years, the Yeti Hondo Beach Chair is worth investing in.

• Design

  Many of the camp chairs we tested have two or four legs that easily sink into sand or loose dirt. The Yeti Hondo Beach Chair has long, wider bars that don't sink, so it is better suited for sand than other chairs we considered.

• Portability

  We took this chair to Crystal Cove State Park in Orange County, California and Sunset Cliffs State Beach in San Diego, California. Both beaches require parking in lots or on the street a quarter to half mile away from the actual beach. 

  The comfortable backpack straps on the Yeti Hondo made it ideal for the long trek from the parking lot to the beach.

  We also appreciated how the Yeti Hondo lies mostly flat in the trunk of a car, making it easy to fit everything else needed for a beach day.

• Features

  Our only gripe is that it only has one cupholder. But again—that low height made it easier to reach over to the cooler on the sand.

Best Camping Stool: REI Trail Stool

Unfolded Dimensions (inches): 15.7 x 12.6 x 12.6"
Seat Height: 15.7 inches
Weight: 1 pound 2 ounces
Weight Capacity: 200 lbs
What we liked: Compact, easy to assemble
What we didn't like: Small seating size

If you don’t need a traditional camping chair but want to get off the ground, the affordable and compact REI Trail Stool does just the trick. It doesn’t have a back (it’s a camping stool!) but is easy to assemble and sturdy. Plus, if space is an issue, it’s a highly compact camping chair—it folds down to a mere 4” x 22”.

It’s also relatively easy to assemble. We appreciated that the parts are strapped together so you are less likely to lose a pole or support.

We’ve tried other camping stools and have found their seating size to be ahem inadequate for most adults who tried to sit in it. The REI Camp stool is much more accommodating and feels sturdy—as long as you’re below the 200 pound weight limit.

Best camping chair for bad back: Yeti Trailhead Camp Chair

Unfolded Dimensions (inches): 25.1 x 29.9 x 36.25
Seat Height: 16.75 inches
Weight: 13.3 pounds
Weight Capacity: 500 lbs
What we liked: most comfortable camp chair we tested, testers with bad backs felt supported, easy to set up, locks in securely, 500 lb weight limit
What we didn't like: price

Yeti changed the camping cooler game with their luxury coolers, and they’ve done it again with camp chairs. Our tester hailed the Yeti Trailhead Camp Chair as “the most comfortable chair I’ve ever sat in.” 

For people with a bad back, most camp chairs can be extremely uncomfortable. The Yeti Trailhead camp chair sits at a higher height than many camp chairs and has a supportive frame that can hold up to 500 pounds, the most of any chair we tested. The sturdy FlexGrid material is provides more support designed for comfort. 

It’s easy to set up, the frame locks into place for stability, and the breathable mesh fabric makes for a comfortable seat and also keeps you cool on hot days. 

If you have a bad back, check with a medical professional to figure out what angles and amount of "give" in the material is best for you. But as far as our testers with back pain are concerned, the Yeti Trailhead Camp Chair was the clear winner.

• Supportive Material

  The UV-resistant material dries quickly after a rain storm and is also easy to clean. The material is puncture resistant. In fact, we think it is so high quality looking that we use this camp chair even when not camping. The FlexGrid material is meant to (you guessed it!) flex when you sit on it to offer support and strength. The material is rated to 500 pounds (the most of any camp chair we tested).

• Flaws but not dealbreakers

  Comfort for a bad back comes with a price, and we have a hard time recommending someone spend this much on a camp chair. But once people commit to this chair, the most common complaint—only one cup holder (and we kind of agree)!

• Camp chair that can double as patio furniture

  If you live in a small house or apartment and are looking for a camp chair that can double as patio furniture and still look sophisticated, we think this is a good choice. It is literally sold at high-end home goods store Williams Sonoma. And its sturdy, UV-resistant material is strong enough to be left out for longer periods of time, as you often do with patio furniture.

  As far as patio furniture goes, the Yeti Trailhead is in line with what home furniture brands are charging. If it’s within your budget, you won’t be disappointed!

Best Compact Camping Chair: Crazy Creek Hex 2.0

Unfolded Dimensions (inches): 33 x 15"
Seat Height: 0
Weight: 1.3 lbs
Weight Capacity: 250 lbs
What we liked: portability, durability, design and color options, ease of use, meets festival height
What we didn't like: legs are on the ground so requires use with picnic blanket

The Crazy Creek Hex 2.0 is the best compact camp chair. It folds down so small, we've brought it as carry-on luggage on a plane. Being a compact camp chair also means it is quite portable. 

It's shorter than other camp chairs, but we think that has an advantage. Many festivals, ball games, and other outdoor events have height restrictions for chairs that you bring in (to prevent blocking views of people behind). The Hex 2.0 is low to the ground but gives you the comfort of a chair with a back.

We like the Crazy Creek Hex 2.0 that we use it any time we find ourselves on a picnic or outdoor blanket directly on the ground, bring the Hex 2.0. It's compact, lightweight, easy to use, and incredibly portable. This is also a very durable piece of gear and many folks have Crazy Creek Hex's that go back decades. We think that makes the Hex 2.0 an especially great value.

The Crazy Creek Hex 2.0 is nice to have a little padding and a backrest wherever you wander. It’s especially great for picnics in lush fields with mountain views.

The Crazy Creek Hex 2.0 is easy to pack and travel with.

Testing the Crazy Creek Hex 2.0 along other camping chairs on a sandy beach.

Best camp chair for backpacking: NEMO Moonlite Elite Reclining Backpacking Chair

Unfolded Dimensions (inches): 23 x 19 x 18"
Seat Height: 10
Weight: 1.1 lbs
Weight Capacity: 250 lbs
What we liked: portability, weight, size, reclining feature, adjustable back support, cover that keeps legs from sinking in sand
What we didn't like: price, weight limit of 250 lbs

The NEMO Moonlite Elite Reclicing Backpacking Chair is our winner for best camp chair for backpacking. It packs up so small and compact there is no reason not to bring it along on backpacking trips and dayhikes. Our tester forgot this was in her pack on a recent dayhike and was excited to find it when she took her lunch break. 

The NEMO Moonlite sets up quickly in under a minute and weighs just over a pound. The chair has a reclining feature that allows you to easily adjust the back support which is a real perk after a hard hike to a campsite. The NEMO Moonlite sits close to the ground allowing you to stretch your legs and relax.

In addition to use while backpacking, we took the NEMO Moonlite Elite chair out for a long plein air painting session and found it comfortable enough to use for a whole afternoon of sitting and painting. Since it is so small we keep it in our car because it works great for music in the park when you don’t want to sit on a blanket.

One feature we like about the NEMO Moonlite for backpacking is that it performs better than the Helinox Zero in sandy conditions. The cover does double duty as a surface for the chair legs keeping them from sinking into the sand or soft dirt. When you're done sitting, the chair folds up quickly back into its cover and can be packed out.

Other camping chairs we tested

We considered over a dozen different models of camping chairs and narrowed down that list to decide our winners. Here are some models that we liked a lot and were highly rated by customers and professional outdoor reviewers alike. They didn’t make our winners list because they have unique features that may not appeal to everyone, but we think that they are worth your consideration if you know there are specific things you are looking for in a folding camping chair.

REI Campwell Chair

Unfolded Dimensions (inches): 31 x 31.25 x 20 (H x W x D) inches
Seat Height: 15 inches
Weight: 8 lbs 2 oz
Weight Capacity: 300

The REI Campwell Chair combines strength, affordability, and sustainability in one easy chair. Alright, it’s actually a camping chair, but it felt like kicking back in a comfy couch when our testers took it to the banks of the Saco River, Boston’s greenspaces, and in the backyard for an early summer cookout. 

The ability to keep the deep cup holder tucked up and under the left arm was helpful, but it was even better to swing that cupholder down to support a long neck bottle (or keep your valuables cinched in). Our testers loved the support from X-shaped webbing that wasn’t uncomfy while it held up our loaded bbq plates, and appreciated the back support from a mid-height design. The recycled materials that meet bluesign® standards and keep REI’s effort carbon neutral were great bonuses, too — all without breaking the bank.

REI Flexlite Air Chair

Unfolded Dimensions (inches): 19 x 22 x 22"
Seat Height: 11
Weight: 1
Weight Capacity: 250

We tested the REI Co-Op Flexlite Air Chair, REI’s take on a 1-pound camp chair. We didn’t find it quite as stable as the Helinox camping chair.

The key difference is the placement of the cross bars. The Helinox are lateral, dispersing weight between the supports better than the Flexlite. In contrast, the Flexlite’s cross bars are front-back, which distributes weight less evenly.

Like the Helinox Zero, the REI Flexlite Air Chair is designed for backpackers. Weighing only a pound, this chair offers luxury without adding too much weight (though, if you’re an ultralight backpacker, this may still be too heavy). 

Due to its light weight and thin fabric, the Flexlite Air Chair isn’t the most stable chair, but it gets the job done and is impressively comfortable and durable for its weight. The seat is also small, so it’s not geared toward bigger bodies. 

Basically, this chair is for smaller folks who want the luxury of backpacking with a chair with a back without paying a huge weight penalty. Still, we think the Helinox Zero does a better job, especially on unstable ground.

Hillsound BTR Stool

Unfolded Dimensions (inches): 12"x11"x14.4", 14"x13"x17.5", 16"x15"x20.6"
Seat Height: 14”, 17”, or 20”
Weight: 13.2oz, 14.7 oz, 17.4 pz
Weight Capacity: 240 pounds

We appreciate the Hillsound BTR Stool for its ease of use, compact size, and portability. “BTR” stands for Better Than a Rock.

The medium version only weighs 14.7 oz, which is appreciated by backpackers. However, for just 1.3 oz and about $10 more, you get a backrest with the REI Flexlite Air Chair. The weight capacity is also only 240 lbs, making it one of the least weight-accessible options.

Indeed, in our own testing, we found that even average-sized folks had a hard time balancing themselves on this small stool.

If a backrest isn’t a priority for you, and you’re simply looking for a small, compact seat on which to park yourself while backpacking, fishing, or hanging out at a park, the Hillsound BTR Stool will work for you. Still, we prefer the REI Stool, which has more of a seat.

Helinox Camp Chair ONE XL

Unfolded Dimensions (inches): 27 x 23.5 x 35"
Seat Height: 14.5
Weight: 3.5
Weight Capacity: 320

The Helinox Camp Chair XL won’t win any prizes for being flashy, but it’s easy to transport, and is comfortable and durable for a compact chair. It weighs 3.5 lbs and has a capacity of 320 lbs. It’s not the lightest, but it’s stable for its size and it gets the job done. 

We were intrigued by this chair because it is a version of the Helinox Camp Chair we liked, but made for folks with bigger bodies.

However, in our testing, we found that bigger bodied folks don’t always fit inside the dimensions—even if the supports can hold up to 320 pounds. The width of the seat, in particular, didn’t seem to account for the shape of bigger bodied campers.

For its $160 price, you’re better off with other compact chair options. But if you find it on sale and it meets your needs, it will still serve you well.

Nomadix Easy Chair

Unfolded Dimensions (inches): 28.5 x 25 x 25"
Seat Height: 11.0 in
Weight: 7.4 lbs
Weight Capacity: 250 lbs

We love the look and lightweight feel of the Nomadix Easy Chair. With supportive crossbars in its base, it was one of the best performing chairs in sand and at the beach. We loved the beach-friendly design and strap that made it easy to carry to the beach or a faraway campsite.

The stylish bamboo armrests looked beautiful, but weren't as durable as other materials when stacked under camping gear in the back of a vehicle.

Nomadix Easy Chair

Crazy Creek AirCliner

Unfolded Dimensions (inches): 36 x 21"
Seat Height: 0 in
Weight: 1.8 lbs
Weight Capacity: 250 lbs

The Crazy Creek AirCliner was one of the most portable camp chairs we tested. It takes the design of the Crazy Creek Hex 2.0 (our winner for more compact camp chair) and gives it extra comfort. With material like an inflatable sleeping pad, the AirCliner adds soft support to a ground-based camp chair.

Despite countless camping trips, backyard barbeques, and outdoor hangouts, we did not get a hole in the Crazy Creek AirCliner. Every time we used it, we wondered if this would be the day, but it never happened. This is especially impressive given that kids love this chair as well as the similar Crazy Creek AirLounger.

Ultimately, despite no durability issues in years of testing, we still are concerned about spending more than $100 on an inflatable.

Crazy Creek AirCliner

Crazy Creek AirLounger

Unfolded Dimensions (inches): 50 x 20 x 17"
Seat Height: 0 in
Weight: 2.4 lbs
Weight Capacity: 250 lbs

Kids love the Crazy Creek AirLounger, a longer version of the Crazy Creek AirCliner that we like from above. 

Like the AirCliner, ultimately, despite no durability issues in years of testing, we still are concerned about spending $140 on an inflatable. Additionally, we found the AirLounger, which has extra material compared to the AirCliner, to be more difficult to roll and pack away.

Crazy Creek AirLounger

HEST Foamy Camp Chair

Unfolded Dimensions (inches): 35 x 26 x 24"
Seat Height: 17.0 in
Weight: 14.0 lbs
Weight Capacity: 500 lbs

We are currently testing the HEST Foamy Camp Chair and it is well on its way to win an award for most comfortable camp chair ever.

We tested the HEST Foamy Camp Chair Cushion, made of memory foam that is incredible. The cushion pops off so you can also use them against the side of a van or cabin when sitting on a porch. That’s how we’ve been using it and our cabin’s rocking chair on the porch has never felt more comfortable.

HEST Foamy Camp Chair

How we Researched and tested

We've spent the past 4 years testing camp chairs on camping trips, rafting trips, base camps for long trail runs, while trail angel-ing, at beaches, picnics, festivals and outdoor music, and more. To find the best camp chairs, we had more than a dozen people of different shapes and sizes test dozens of camp chairs from Colorado to Maine, from California to Washington, from Montana to Arizona. 

Before even getting started testing camp chairs, we spend 10 hours researching camp chairs, reading customer reviews and figuring out which models to test.

To even be considered, the camp chairs had to be:

• Affordable

• Comfortable

• Durable

• Packable

• Easily transportable

Each of the folding camping chairs we considered was well-reviewed and highly recommended by everyday users on platforms such as REI, Backcountry.com, and Amazon.

• Compared chairs across body sizes
• Used them on camping and rafting trips
• Carried them to beaches and festivals
• Tested them at trail-running base camps
• Set them up on varied terrain

• Comfort and body support
• Setup and breakdown
• Stability on uneven ground
• Durability and fabric tension
• Weight, packability, and value

What to look for in camping chairs

There is a multitude of chairs to choose from, so how did we pick our finalists? To narrow down the field, we created criteria for our contenders of key features these camping chairs must include:

Packability

What’s a camp chair worth if it’s not easy to store and take with you on your adventures? We searched for portable camping chairs that were easy to stow, didn’t take up too much space, and came with carrying cases for ease of transport and storage. 

Here's what to look for in terms of packability:

Folding Or Collapsible Design:

Look for chairs that can fold up or collapse into a compact size. This makes them easier to pack and carry, as they take up less space car trunk or gear storage area after your trip is over.

Size When Packed:

Consider the dimensions of the chair when it is folded or collapsed. Will it fit in your car for bringing to the campground? If you're flying with your camp chair, will it fit in your checked luggage? 

Weight:

Check the weight of the camping chair, especially if you'll be carrying it over long distances, such as from the car to a walk-in campground or from the distant parking lot to a music festival or sporting event. Lighter chairs are generally more packable and won't add much weight to your overall gear.

Weight Capacity

Stability

Consider chairs with sturdy frames and wide bases for enhanced stability, especially if you'll be sitting on uneven or rugged terrain such as the beach or a particularly rocky campsite. Similarly, it's worth being extra careful about stability if you anticipate coming close to the weight limit on your chair. Note that some higher-end chairs, like the Nemo Stargaze, are made with aeronautical grade aluminum vs. some of the lower-end chairs. 

Size and seating area

Consider the size of the chair and the seating area it provides. Ensure that the chair accommodates your body shape and size and allows for comfortable sitting without feeling cramped.

Comfort and ergonomics

Look for chairs that provide comfort during extended periods of sitting. Consider chairs with sufficient padding, back support, and armrests. Many campers find that a low chair, like the Kelty Low Double Chair or the GCI Everywhere chair, are more comfortable than chairs with a higher height. Adjustable features such as reclining positions and headrests can also enhance comfort.

Durability and materials

Invest in a camping chair that is made of durable materials such as aluminum or steel frames and high-quality fabric. Check for reinforced stitching and reliable construction to ensure the chair can withstand outdoor conditions, avoid rust, and can handle getting packed in-and-out of a car on a regular basis.

While some of our choices were certainly not weight-conscious (Our Heavy-Duty pick weighs 13 pounds!), we did consider weight (our lightweight choice is only 1.1 pounds!). Our choices had to be within a reasonable amount of weight to transport—easy to stow in the car, in the RV, in a backpack, or just to carry down to the beach. On the other hand, we were also conscious of the weight ratings of each chair. We looked for chairs rated to hold the average adult (a minimum of 250 pounds) and found that our winners were often rated far above that and had even been tested to weights far beyond those ratings.  

Construction

When considering camp chairs, we looked at materials and frame constructions. Our winners were all constructed with quality materials and designed to handle uneven terrain, bear weight evenly and securely, and withstand wear and tear from a variety of climates and ecosystems. Therefore, materials and frame constructions were high on our list of priorities. 

Versatility

We chose our finalists for their versatility across the board; we wanted chairs that you could take with you just about anywhere to do just about anything. While we did home in on a few specialties (lightweight backpacking and a two-seater), we have used both specialized chairs in various other situations—outdoor theaters, river trips, family reunions, even July 4th barbecues. We searched for chairs that you can toss in your car and have for any occasion. All of the camp chairs we considered met these basic criteria. But when deciding the best camp chair for you, we developed a set of questions to help you find features or additions to your chair that are important.

Easy To Use & Portable

Portability

Some camping chairs come with a dedicated carry bag or storage sack. This helps keep the chair protected, organized, and makes it easier to carry. Look for chairs that include a bag or sack for convenient storage and transportation.

Weather resistance

If you plan to camp somewhere it rains or is humid, consider chairs that are weather-resistant. Look for chairs with water-resistant or quick-drying fabrics that can withstand rain or moisture. If you expect a lot of sun exposure, be aware that some fabrics deteriorate much faster when exposed to UV rays. Try to store your camp chair indoors when not in use.

Additional features

Although not an essential criteria to be awarded a winner, you may find that certain feature are Must Haves for you. For us, the Must Have was a cup holder. But for others, it may be side pockets for storage or integrated sunshades. These features can add convenience and functionality to your camping experience.

Cup Holder

It kind of goes without saying, but a good camping chair should have at least one drink holder. A side pocket for magazines and phones is a bonus.

How to choose a camping chair

How often will you be using this chair?

If you're planning to use the camp chair often, it's worth investing in one of the mid-to-higher end camping chairs, which are designed with more durable materials. The Nemo Stargaze, for example, is made with aeronautical grade aluminum to withstand not only use, but the damage that can happen during transporting the trail to-and-from campgrounds, picnics, sporting events, and festivals.

How do you plan to use the camping chair?

Think about how you'll primarily use the camping chair. Are you planning to use it for camping trips only, or do you also want a chair that can be used for other outdoor activities like picnics, fishing, or sports events? Understanding the chair's intended use will help you choose one that suits your specific needs. For example, if you're primarily using the chair for festivals, you may want a low-chair as many concerts have height restrictions. 

What types of terrain will you be using this chair on?

If you're using the camp chair in sand, you'll want a chair that can handle uneven terrain. If you're using it in mud, you'll want a chair with a design and parts that can wash off quickly.

What is the weight capacity and seating size of the chair? Will it comfortably accommodate your body weight and size?

Consider your body weight and size when selecting a camping chair. Check the weight capacity specified by the manufacturer to ensure the chair can comfortably support you. Additionally, think about the dimensions of the chair and whether it provides ample seating space for your body size. We list the dimensions and the weight limits of each chair in our comparison table.

Is the camping chair easy to clean and maintain?

If you anticipate your camping chair getting dirty or exposed to outdoor elements, consider chairs that are easy to clean and maintain. Look for chairs with removable and washable fabric, as well as materials that are resistant to stains, dirt, and mildew. In our experience, less expensive chairs are more susceptible to rust. Better-made chairs will require less maintenance in the long-run because they'll be made of higher quality rust-proof materials.

Do you have a preference for the style and aesthetics of the camping chair?

Modern camp chairs come in fun designs and colors. While not a necessity for function, if you like how your chair looks, you'll be more likely to use it and treat it well. Consider the color, design, and overall appearance of the chair, as it can contribute to your camping experience and match your personal style.

What's your budget?

We considered camp chairs from $50 to $300. Occasionally, we'll see camp chairs as low as $40 on sale. In our experience, it's worth spending a little more on a camping chair to get something that will last longer and require less maintenance (e.g. removal of rust).

Are you concerned about the environmental impact of the chair?

If you're conscious about the environmental impact of your gear, you may want to consider chairs made from eco-friendly or sustainable materials. Look for chairs that use recycled materials or are designed with minimal environmental footprint. For example, you can look at Nemo's sustainability report to look at their impact as a brand, including carbon accountability.

Camp chair care and Maintenance

how to clean a camp chair

• If you have removable fabric, check the fabric tag for specific instructions. In general, you should gently remove dirt and grime with non-detergent soap (using a dishcloth also works!), and then rinse. 

• If you do machine wash, make sure it’s only in a washer WITHOUT an agitator. (It turns out an agitator can rip seams.) Use the gentlest setting. 

• Use cold water when cleaning. 

• Don’t use fabric softeners, bleach, or laundry detergent. 

• Don’t dry clean your camp chair; it can strip the fabric of its water-resistant treatments. 

How to store a camp chair

• While using your chairs in the sun is great, avoid storing them in direct sunlight (aka, against the side of your house). The more UV exposure, the faster the fabric on chairs can deteriorate.  

• Never put chairs away wet—that’s how they collect mildew or mold!

• Be careful around open flames — the materials may not catch on fire, but they may melt. 

• If zippers, closures, or pulls get stuck, don’t force it — ease the problem out gently. 

• Completely dry out your chair before storage. 

• If the material tears or gets a hole, you can sew it by hand or with a sewing machine. Additionally, you can use a temporary patch with gear-repair tape. (Careful with this, though — if you try to remove the tape, it could cause the rip to worsen.)

• To treat wood, use a gentle sponge to wipe off dirt and grime — or even finely sand it down if need be. If you want to reseal or re-waterproof, apply a few coats of Dutch oil, Tung oil, or Marine Varnish for protection. 

• If sand or grit gets into tension lock systems, remove the extensions and carefully release/extend a few times while rinsing the component with clean water. Of course, let the extensions dry before repacking. 

FAQ

• Are camping chairs necessary for camping?

  Camping chairs aren’t essential, but they make a big difference in comfort. Sitting on a rock, cooler, or the ground works in a pinch—but a good camping chair gives back support, improves posture, and makes long nights around the campfire far more enjoyable. They're especially useful for new or skeptical campers.

• How do I choose the right size camping chair?

  Check the seat width, height, and weight capacity to ensure the chair fits your body comfortably. If you have a larger frame, look for chairs with wider seats, taller backs, and higher weight ratings. Our comparison table at the top of the article helps you quickly compare these specs across models.

• Can I use a camping chair for other outdoor activities?

  Absolutely. Camping chairs are great for picnics, beach days, backyard BBQs, sporting events, festivals, and even as extra patio seating. Many people use them year-round as portable or backup furniture.

• Are camping chairs safe to use?

  Yes, but follow basic safety precautions. Don’t exceed the chair’s weight limit, set it on stable ground, and avoid leaning too far back. Supervise young children using camp chairs to prevent tipping or falls. Always read the chair’s instructions before first use.

• Can camping chairs handle rain and sun?

  Most camping chairs can withstand occasional rain and sun exposure. The best models use quick-drying, UV-resistant materials. For longer-lasting performance, always store your chair in a dry place when not in use.

• Can I bring a camping chair on an airplane?

  It depends on the airline and chair size. Most camp chairs can be checked as luggage, especially compact or foldable models. Carry-on acceptance varies, so check with your airline ahead of time. Be mindful of baggage weight limits if you're packing other gear.

• What’s the best camping chair for bad backs or extra support?

  Look for camping chairs with lumbar support, high backs, and rigid frames. Some models include adjustable reclining angles or padded headrests, which help reduce strain during long sits.

• What’s the difference between a low vs. high camping chair?

  Low chairs are ideal for lounging, beach camping, or tight spaces, but can be harder to get in and out of. High chairs are easier on the knees and better for eating at camp tables or sitting around the fire. Your choice depends on how (and where) you plan to use it.

AUTHOR’S EXPERTISE & WHY YOU SHOULD TRUST US

I wouldn’t call myself an expert, but I have been sitting in chairs my entire life. (Kind of.)

I’ve guided hiking, backpacking, rock climbing, and (mostly) rafting trips in Alaska and Colorado for seven years. I’m now a program manager for a guiding company out of Southeast Alaska and managed their hiking and rafting program on the Chilkoot Trail and Taiya River. So camping — whether out of my truck on the side of remote Canadian highways or in our backyard near the White Mountains —  is no foreign concept to me. 

However, as a raft guide, I prefer what some might call “glamping” — the more comfortable, the better. (After all, I can haul anything in that raft!) So while my favorite is a camp rocking chair, I also love a good loveseat by the water or a Crazy Creek in the alpine. 

I managed a section of Backpacker Magazine’s annual Fall Gear Guide for four years, have been a gear tester for several other publications, and have written about hiking, skiing, and rafting locations globally. I’ve also written gear reviews for Treeline Review on categories from Personal Flotation Devices to Dog Packs to Ski Gloves.  

My favorite places I’ve sat (thus far) have been overlooking a purple sunset over a slot canyon in Northern Utah and a massage chair at a post-ski onsen in Myoko, Japan. 

You can read more about Josette on her website and on her author page.

Sources

How to Choose a Camp Chair | REI

July 14, 2026
Home > Gear Reviews > Backpacking

Our verdict

We’ve been big fans of the Alpenglow Gear Alpenblow Sleeping Pad inflator since we first saw it at PCT Days in 2023. It’s the lightest full-featured sleeping pad inflator we've tested — 13.7 g (0.48 oz), roughly half the weight of any pump that also deflates. It is the lightest way to inflate your own sleeping pad without your breath or a heavy inflator pump sack.

The new Alpenblow Lux includes an inflator and deflator so you can get your pad as compact as the day you bought it, and it can actually fit in the included stuff sack.

The Lux is noticeably faster to inflate than the original Alpenblow Classic (twice as fast to ⅔ the time by our tests) and also uses 50% less energy, meaning it will drain your battery pack or phone less per pump.

The Alpenblow Lux now has features found in heavier sleeping pad inflators by other brands, including a deflate function and flashlights. The Alpenblow Lux pad pump is available with an inflate and deflate function, a lantern, and white noise/ocean noise machine, a dedicated off button, and it weighs all 0.48 oz (13.7 g). This makes the Alpenblow Lux the lightest-weight fully functioning sleeping pad inflator/deflator available and less than half the weight of other pad pumps.

I’m a thru-hiker, fastpacker, former Appalachian Trail FKT-holder, and former board member of the American Long Distance Hiking Association-West. And I will admit, I hate inflating my sleeping pad and am so thrilled sleeping pad inflators have been invented.

The Alpenblow Lux is an ultralight inflator for sleeping pads for ultralight backpackers and thru-hikers like me who realize that inflating sleeping pads is one of the worst chores a hiker has to do at the end of a long day.

Alpenglow Gear Alpenblow Lux Sleeping Pad Inflator

Note: We tested an early model that is in black and white. The production model is in purple and pink like all Alpenglow products.

We create reader-supported, objective gear reviews independently selected by our editors. This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission — without costing you an extra cent. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.

Alpenblow Lux specifications

• Price: $60

• Weight: 13.7 g (0.48 oz)

• Inflation time: ~2 minutes (depends on model of pad. See Alpenglow’s table for details)

• Deflation: Yes

• Powered through: USB-C from your phone or battery pack

• Noise level: 43dB at 30cm 

• Power: 2.4 W (fan) | 0.30 W (lamps)

• Energy Usage: 9 mAh @ 5V (NeoAir NXT)

• Features: Lantern, Candle-flicker, White noise, Ocean noise

Comparison table

Best for

• Ultralight hikers, thru-hikers, and backpackers who are tired of inflating their sleeping pads

• Thru-hikers who want to efficiently do their camp chores and have their pad inflate itself while they are setting up a tent, cooking, etc.

• People who want to deflate their sleeping pads to get the most space in their backpack or storage area at home

• Backpackers who want to deflate their sleeping pads to get it to fit back in the bag it came with

• Backpackers and campers who want a lantern or “campfire” but are ultralight (and don’t want to use their headlamp)

What we liked

• Incredibly lightweight (only 13.7 grams with the Therm-a-Rest nozzle!)

• Includes inflator and deflator, so you can get your pad as compact as the day you bought it, and it can actually fit in that included stuff sack it came with

• Light and attached lantern leash turns your water bottle into a camping lantern

• Includes an off button, which most ultralight models do not have

• Bright colors mean you are less likely to lose the inflator in your campsite

• White noise and ocean noise machine is a perk for some people, and it comes with a 30-minute auto shut-off

• Uses 50% less energy than the original Alpenblow Classic pump, so it won't run through your battery pack or phone's battery as much

• Inflates faster than the Alpenblow Classic, with reported 80% higher pressure and twice as fast (⅔ the time, by our tests)

• Better packaging to keep all the parts together!

What we didn’t like

• Expensive

• Only comes in pink and purple, which may not be everyone’s favorite

• Is a white noise or ocean machine leaving no trace? (Leave No Trace principle #7 says to let nature’s sounds prevail)

How we tested

We tested the Alpenblow Lux while backpacking and camping for a month straight in the Eastern Sierra, inflating our sleeping pad each night and then deflating it in the morning. We switched off each night and tested with a NEMO Tensor All-Season mummy, NEMO Tensor Extreme rectangular size, and Sea to Summit Ether Light XR Insulated Air Sleeping Pad. Between the two types of sleeping pads, we had slipped off the valve adapters on both the inflate and deflate sections.

We also did more lab-like testing, timing how long it took to inflate each sleeping pad with the Alpenblow Lux, the Alpenblow Classic, and the similar Rex Creations Pad Pal inflator (now discontinued). We also tested against the heavier and more fully featured FLEXTAIL Zero Pump 2.

The Lux noticeably has an off button (in the original Alpenblow Classic, you unhooked it from the battery to turn it off, which still works).

Performance in the field

Valve adapters

We really like that all the valve adapters for the most common pads are included. The bright pink attachment nozzles stand out, so you won’t lose them. All the adapters are included, which can sometimes get confusing. However, the new packaging for the Alpenblow includes a drawing of each valve next to the sleeping pad valve name to make it easier. This is a simple addition to the packaging, but greatly appreciated to get the system up and running fast.

Inflate speed

The Alpenblow Lux inflates faster than the original Alpenblow Classic inflator, with reported 80% higher pressure and twice as fast. In our time tests, it took about ⅔ the time to inflate on average. We ran multiple tests over several days and found it took about 2 minutes to inflate a full-length mummy NEMO Tensor sleeping pad at an altitude of around 8,000 feet, which is down from the 3 minutes we got with the Alpenblow Classic. 

Alpenglow has an extensive table explaining times to inflate per pad and an explanation of what can impact speed.

Deflate speed

The Alpenblow Lux notably has an inflate and deflate function, a first for the brand and for a sub-1-oz sleeping pad inflator. This allows you to not only inflate your sleeping pad but also deflate it in the morning so your pad takes up as little space as possible while packed in your backpack.

For backpackers who carry the stuff sack their sleeping pad comes in, this makes it much easier to fold it up and put it back in there in the morning. I don’t carry my sleeping pad’s stuff sack (I know I’m risking it with the durability), but I appreciate this function at the end of a trip when I am storing my pad at home. A completely deflated pad takes up noticeably less space.

By our tests, it took an average of 2 minutes to deflate the NEMO Tensor sleeping pad at around 8,000 feet altitude. 

Powering

It hooks up via USB-C to a battery power pack. Alpenglow reports it takes about 95 seconds to inflate a full-length, 6’, regular-width sleeping pad. In our tests, it took us about 2 minutes (120 seconds) to inflate a 6-foot length mummy NEMO Tensor.

You can also plug the system into your phone to power it, which takes less than 1% of your phone’s battery to inflate. That is well worth several minutes of huffing and puffing that I could be spending resting or doing camping chores.

Unlike other sleeping pad inflators, such as the FLEXTAIL Zero Pump 2, it does not require direct charging because it doesn’t have a battery. This means when thru-hiking, when you resupply and charge electronics, you can run it all off your phone or battery pack and have one fewer thing to charge. This is important because thru-hikers often have limited access to outlets and plugs while in town. Having one less thing to charge means a faster turnaround time when in town. 

Light feature and lantern leash

The Alpenblow Lux has lantern features, which are essentially two orange LED lights that can cycle between several lantern modes, including candle flicker (awesome to get that campfire-like feeling without making a campfire! Very Leave No Trace). The whole Alpenblow Lux attaches to an included bright pink leash. You can attach the inflator to your M!Go water bottle, CNOC ThruBottle, or NOBO bottle from Igneous gear. 

Once you attach your Alpenblow Lux to your water bottle, it turns into a lantern. Light diffused over a larger surface area can make a space appear brighter, and if you’re already carrying a water bottle, the little light on the Lux can brighten up a campsite.

The lantern mode doesn't need the fan to be running, so it is a quiet feature. The lamps start glowing once inflation is complete.

Durability and sustainability

The Alpenblow Lux and the lantern leash are bright pink (so you are less likely to lose them).

The whole system is assembled in California and has an estimated motor lifetime of 30,000 hours.

Size and weight

The Lux is 0.48 oz (13.7 g). This is 5.1 grams more than the original Alpenblow Classic (8.6 g). The Lux is also larger, which takes up slightly more room in my Hartford Gear Dyneema Trail Pouch (size M). Most people will not be so much of a gram counter as to be bothered by this, but as with all ultralight gear, if you aren’t going to use the extra features on the Lux, choose the lighter-weight Alpenblow Classic.

Sound and noise

One of the things I like the most about the Alpenblow Classic is how quiet it is. I don’t want to disturb my neighbors when inflating my pad, but I really see the benefit of using a pad inflator. Other pad inflators sing songs or have loud fans that make a backcountry campsite sound more like a frontcountry RV park.

The sound on the Alpenblow Lux is similar to the Alpenblow Classic, registering 40 decibels on my Xb app. Given that it only takes 120 seconds to inflate my pad, this is acceptable. Just be mindful when doing it around other campers, especially if you roll into camp late at night.

Some people have a hard time sleeping outdoors with all the sounds of nature. This is especially true for people starting their first thru-hike. A white noise machine can help. Cleverly, the Alpenblow Lux has a 30-minute auto shutoff, so you won’t run the battery down.

I question whether the noise machine is Leave No Trace. Principle #7 is to keep noise levels down/let nature’s sounds prevail. While “ocean” may be a natural sound (and the Alpenblow Lux is relatively quiet), you’re unlikely to hear that kind of noise in the desert or on Springer Mountain.

I’d prefer to see hikers who want white noise run it through their phone and listen to those sounds on wireless headphones rather than on a machine where everyone else in camp can hear it. Many apps have a 30-minute (or 5-, 10-, or 20-minute) auto-shutoff as well.

Features

Valve adapters

As with the Alpenblow Classic, the Alpenblow Lux comes with adapters compatible with the NEMO Laylow, Therm-a-Rest WingLock, Sea to Summit, Big Agnes, and Exped sleeping pads.

Other valves

Alpenglow sells the Rab, Klymit, KILOS GEAR, REI Co-op, and Therm-a-Rest original valve adapters separately, since those are less common pads.

White noise and ocean noise machine

When the fan is running, clicking the triangular logo cycles through modes. The Ocean and White Noise machines both run for 30 minutes before shutting off automatically.

Lantern

To match other pad pumps, the new Lux version has a light. You can attach it to the backside of your water bottle to turn it into a lantern. When the fan is on, scroll through the modes to reach the lantern by clicking on the logo.

Lantern leash included

The Alpenblow Lux comes with a lantern leash that attaches the inflator to your water bottle, turning it into a lantern. It is compatible with M!Go bottle by Mazama, NOBO bottle by Igneous, and ThruBottle by CNOC.

Should I buy the Alpenblow Lux?

Buy it if:

• You are an ultralight backpacker or thru-hiker skeptical of sleeping pad inflators. The Alpenblow will change your life, and the Lux version has even more features than the Classic.

• You already like the Alpenblow Classic or Rex Creations pad pump, but wish it had a deflator. 

• You hate blowing up your sleeping pad (even if you aren’t an ultralighter). This is a lighter-weight version of a product you will likely enjoy anyway.

• Getting your sleeping pad into its stuff sack in the morning is your least favorite camp chore. A pad deflator makes this so much easier.

Skip it if:

• You are so ultralight that you don’t want to add the extra weight of a sleeping pad inflator.

• You are against using electronics in the outdoors.

• You use a foam sleeping pad.

• You want the fastest sleeping pad inflator.

• You want a sleeping pad inflator that runs on its own batteries and not off an external battery pack.

Similar sleeping pad inflators

Alpenglow Gear Alpenblow Lux vs Alpenblow Classic

Weight: 8.6 g
Time to inflate: 3-5 minutes, depending on pad
Powered by: USB-C attachment to your phone or battery pack

The Alpenblow Classic is similar to the Lux version. They’re both sleeping pad inflators that work via USB-C, connecting to a phone battery or your phone. They come with similar connectors for attaching to a variety of pads, and both are pink and purple (won’t get lost) and are assembled in the USA.

The difference is that the Alpenblow Classic doesn’t deflate and doesn’t have a lantern or noise machine. It weighs 8.6 g, which is 5.1 grams less than Lux.

Alpenglow Gear Alpenblow Classic Micro Inflator

Alpenblow Lux vs. FLEXTAIL Zero Pump 2

Weight: 1.7 oz (including nozzle)
Time to inflate: 1:05 (by our tests)
Powered by: Internal rechargeable Lithium battery that runs on USB-C

The FLEXTAIL Zero Pump 2 has an inflate and deflate function and a lot of power. In our tests, it can inflate a full-length pad in 1:05, about half the time of the Alpenblow Lux. It also weighs more than three times as much while costing about the same amount. 

The FLEXTAIL Zero Pump 2 is compatible with about all the same pads as the Alpenblow Lux and Alpenblow Classic, but the Alpenblow can also accommodate pads by Rab, Kilos, and the old Therm-a-Rest nozzle. 

The FLEXTAIL Zero Pump 2 does not have a lantern, lantern leash, or white noise and ocean noise maker.

It uses an internal rechargeable Lithium battery and charges via USB-C. You pull it out of the Zero Pump 2 and charge the battery directly. The battery can also be used with the FLEXTAIL headlamp if you use that model. FLEXTAIL says it is good for around 30 inflations before recharging. In practice, we've gotten much less than that out of it, perhaps because we were inflating and deflating. Some people report that the on/off button is finicky, but we haven't had any issues.

FLEXTAIL Zero Pump 2

Alpenblow Lux vs. Rex Creations Pad Pal

Weight: 8.5 g
Time to inflate: 30-60 seconds, depending on your power mode
Powered by: USB-C attachment to your phone or battery pack

The now-discontinued Rex Creations Pad Pal had a lot in common with the original Alpenblow Classic. Like the Alpenblow Classic, the Rex was an inflator only. It weighed about the same. It used USB-C connected to your battery pack or phone to charge. It inflated more quickly and came with more settings for speed. However, it was louder and played a song between settings reminiscent of a Samsung washer or dryer. I love it in my washer or dryer, but don’t need an electronic song in the backcountry.

The Rex Creations did not have a deflator, lantern, or white noise/ocean noise machine. It did have an on/off button as well as a way to increase speed/power.

Rex Creations Pad Pal

Where to buy

The Alpenblow Lux sleeping pad inflator is a brand new product currently only available from the inventor.

Alpenglow Gear

About the author / Why you should trust us

I’ve backpacked over 20,000 miles and have at least 1,000 nights sleeping outdoors. On most of these overnight trips, I’ve slept on inflatable sleeping pads. 

I've spent the past eleven years testing inflatable sleeping pads originally for Wirecutter/NYTimes since 2015, and then for Treeline Review. I tested the Alpenglow Gear Alpenblow Lux for nearly 30 nights of backcountry sleeping, both in a camping tent and an ultralight backpacking tent. I also tested it side by side with other pad pumps.

I’ve written about outdoor gear for numerous publications, including as a contributing editor at Backpacker Magazine and the New York Times’ product review site, Wirecutter. I’m the author of the National Outdoor Book Award winning Long Trails Mastering the Art of the Thru-hike. 

I regularly book speaking gigs with outdoor clubs, non-profits, and colleges and universities to talk about backpacking and lead gear panels. I’m also Editor-in-Chief here at Treeline Review and oversee all of our outdoor gear stories.

You can read more about me on my website or at my author page.

July 13th, 2026
Updated with a new winner for best folding camp table, best lightweight, and best side table and three new tables tested
Home > Gear Reviews > Camping

What's the most underrated equipment in your campsite kitchen? The mighty camp table. Nothing can make or break your camping meals, keep you stable through a rainy night of playing cards under a tent, or help keep you stay comfortable after a long day on the trail like a camping table.

We've spent four years researching and testing the most popular, most durable, and most versatile camping tables on the market through comprehensive field testing–from Maine's rocky coasts to New Hampshire's White Mountains to the desert of Joshua Tree to the shores of Lake Tahoe in California. Our evaluation process included exposing 14 top contenders to temperature extremes, summer downpours, sandy beaches, and rocky terrain over multiple camping seasons, testing each table's durability, weight capacity, setup efficiency, and real-world performance in conditions ranging from backyard gatherings to multi-day rafting expeditions. 

Through rigorous side-by-side comparisons measuring stability, portability, weather resistance, and versatility across car camping, backpacking, rafting, backyard picnics, and even outdoor art festivals, we identified the 10 best camping tables that deliver exceptional performance for however you spend time outdoors.

Our Top Pick: The REI Co-op Camp Prep Table emerged as our overall winner, combining adjustable height functionality, durable aluminum construction, and versatile performance that excels across picnics, beach days, backpacking, and camping trips.

Related: Ultimate Camping Gear Checklist

Read more: Best Camping Chairs

We create reader-supported, objective gear reviews independently selected by our editors. This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission — without costing you an extra cent. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.

Comparison Table

The 10 Best Camping Tables

Best overall camping table: REI Co-op Camp Prep Table

Surface area and Height: 24 x 49 x 22-31 (L x W x H)  inches
Folded Dimensions 24 x 24.5 x 4.25 (L x W x H)  inches
Weight: 19 lbs 11 oz 
Material: Aluminum tabletop; steel frame
What we liked: Adjustable individual legs, aluminum slat top, foldable, durable, big enough for 4 people, cookstove compatible 
What we didn't like: Tendency to bow upward (bridge) in the middle, larger to store when packed up, heavier than most of our picks 

When it came down to which table would be the overall best camping table, I knew there was one folding table that I could take almost anywhere I wanted to go — the REI Camp Prep Table. With easy portability on a car camping road trip or a weekend rafting trip, four individually adjustable legs to compensate for any kind of terrain variables, a tough aluminum table top, and a handy carrying case, it was a no-brainer.

The author used the REI Camp Prep table as a surface to write this article. It is set up on the porch of her parents’s house in Maine.

REI Camp Prep Table in low mode. The legs are adjustable to a short mode for sitting at low camp chairs around a fire or a high mode for camp prep or dining.

The REI Camp Prep table folds down into its sturdy carry bag.

The REI Camp Prep Table isn’t the lightest table on our list, nor is it the biggest. But did it hit the perfect middle ground for all of our criteria for best camping tables? It sure did. The durable materials were what drove home the win first — the aluminum tabletop allowed us to use our Coleman cook stove without worry about damaging or melting through the table, while the steel legs could handle the dinner for four that we cooked on it, easily. (It’s rated for up to 100 pounds, and although our testers tried to push that in s’more supplies, we fell short of that lofty goal.) 

We really appreciated the slat-design to the table top, which allowed rainwater to drip through and not collect during rainstorms. (Simultaneously, the slat design does allow crumbs to fall through easily, so if you’re a hardcore LNT-er, make sure you put a tarp down to collect the micro-remnants before you start cooking!) 

The adjustable height was also great to switch between kitchen mode and dining mode, allowing the table to drop to a comfortable height to match our camping chairs while we ate and played cards. The flip-latch holding the legs is easy to use, but held up to the challenge when we tossed a hard-sided camping cooler full of ice and drinks on the table top.

The setup was easy to figure out and simple to break down, while the carrying sleeve not only protected the table during storage (aka being thrown into the bed of a truck with the rest of the camping gear and dragged over a beach by an enthusiastic 6-year-old), but made transport one-handed easy. So easy, in fact, that the author’s younger brother could easily carry the table across the yard with his other arm in a sling. 

The materials REI chose and the construction of this table point towards a long and sturdy life for the Camp Prep Table. We loved its versatility, its ease of use, its sturdy and well-crafted design, and most of all — its capacity to comfortably seat up to four people in standard height camp chairs comfortably. This all stacked up to make the REI Camp Table the Best Overall Camp Table for most outdoor activities.

Best folding camp table: Zempire Kitpac Pro Standard Camping Table

Surface Area and Height: 25.6 wide x 19.7 inches deep, and 15.7in–25.6 inches tall
Folded Dimensions: 26.7in x 7.5in x 5.9in
Weight: 12lbs 4.8oz
Materials: Tabletop–Bamboo, frame–Anodized Aluminium
What we liked: Adjustable height and surface area, sturdy surface, built-in bottle opener 
What we didn’t like: Heavier than other tables we tested, have to be careful breaking it down so you don’t pinch your fingers.

The Zempire Kitpac Pro Standard Camping Table is adjustable in both height and surface area, making it adaptable to many different camping scenarios. 

At the shortest setting, it works very well with low to the ground backpacking chairs—like the NEMO Moonlite Elite or the REI Flexlite Camp Chair—as a surface for cooking, eating, and playing cards. At its tallest setting, it pairs nicely with average height camping chairs like the Kijaro Dual Lock Folding Camp Chairs our best overall camp chair winner. When it’s at its tallest you can also comfortably stand next to it for cooking and prepping food.

Zempire Kitpac Pro Standard Camping Table

REI Flexlite Camp Chair at camp with a camp chair on either side.

Two campers sitting at the REI Flexlite Camp Chair

Two campers preparing coffee on the REI Flexlite Camp Chair

The REI Flexlite Camp Chair is the perfect height for camping chairs. It makes for a great table for morning coffee.

The tabletop is made of four adjustable panels that are 26.7 inches long in total. The two outside panels can be flipped down to make a smaller surface area of 26.7 inches by 12.25 inches, which we liked in tighter spaces. 

The table has a weight capacity of 220 pounds so it can handle things like heavier camp stoves, coolers, or someone accidentally sitting on it without breaking it. It is a durable table that is nice enough to use indoors, bringing the comforts of indoor living outside while camping. 

The heavier weight of this table was considered a downside as we were packing it in our car and carrying it around the campsite, however, we did appreciate the heavier weight with dogs running around since it was harder for them to knock it over. The heavier weight also was nice for windy conditions and overall made it feel very sturdy and reliable. 

The surface area panels lock into place and allow for the table to be moved from one location to another without having to remove all the items from the top of the table. This was very necessary during a leisurely lunchtime when the sun kept moving around our campsite and we wanted to follow the shade. We were not able to move other tables as easily, like the Rock Cloud Portable Camping Table or the REI Camp Roll table, since their tabletops can be more wobbly. 

All four legs on the Zempire table are independently adjustable down to one-eighth of an inch so it can be set up on uneven ground and adjusted to provide a level surface. This was really nice for playing cards and having an even surface so the cards weren’t sliding off the table. The solid surface area is also really nice when you are using it as a work surface while camping; we felt safe leaving a laptop set up on it and also used it as a solid surface for painting and drawing en plein air. 

The bottle opener on the underside of the table was a fun bonus feature that we enjoyed having at the campsite, as we never seem to remember an opener while camping and now we have one built in to the table. 

This table isn’t the quickest to set up and break down (it took us about two minutes) and it isn’t the lightest table, but we love it for the adjustable height and surface area. We feel like it is worth the trade-off to have a table that is so adjustable in both height and surface area while being sturdy enough to handle wind, changing camp conditions, and dogs running into it.

Best Roll-Top Camping Table: REI Camp Roll Table

Surface area and Height: 27.5 x 27.5 x 27.5 inches
Folded Dimensions 28 x 7.5 x 5.5 inches
Weight: 8.5 lbs
Material: Aluminum frame
What we liked: Roll-top allows for quick set up, durability and sturdiness, value for the price, size is big enough to play cards or hold a camping stove
What we didn't like: Height is fixed, roll-top is held together with elastic bungees that can stretch and move individual slats in the table top during use. 

The REI Camp Roll Table is our winner for best roll-top camp table and one of the REI's bestsellers for camp tables. We chose this as our best roll-top table because it is sturdy and quick to set up. We timed it and it took us less than a minute from inside its carry bag to a fully functional table.

We have been using this table for over a year now and still pack it on every camping trip. It is now mostly used as our prep station because the aluminum surface is super easy to sanitize and keep clean at camp with wet wipes, and there is enough space to chop veggies and organize ingredients for cooking meals over the grill. 

The heavier weight of 8 pounds makes this table sturdy enough that we don’t have to worry about our dogs knocking it over, which happened with some of the smaller, lighter roll-top tables we tested like the Rock Cloud. It is also designed with a large open space underneath that allows any dogs to have a shady spot to lay down (great for ours since they always want to be close to us).

Treeline Review writer Sara Kruglinski used the REI Camp Roll table at a weeklong outdoor plein air art festival in Tahoe, using it for everything from an art table during the day, to meal table at night, and to play cards in the evening. Photo by Sara Kruglinski.

Testing the REI Camp Roll Table at camp

The REI Camp Roll Table is heavier duty than most other camping tables and we even found it durable enough to be used as a summer patio table at home. The 27 by 27 -inch top is big enough to accommodate two for an outside dinner or a game of cards. We played many intense games of UNO on this table with ease. It pairs nicely with taller chairs like our best overall winner in our camping chair story, the Kijaro Dual Lock Folding Camp Chairs. 

We also liked the REI Camp Roll Table for boondocking because it packs down small, takes up minimal space in the vehicle, but is sturdy enough to leave in place when you're set up. We used it to hold up our camping stove. 

With the right camp chair, you can set up a laptop and work outside or even set up a plein air painting studio (like we did!). When you are ready to change locations, everything packs up into a bag with a strap. We carried this table over a mile on hikes just to have a table at our destination and we found with the quick set up it was worth the effort.

Interested in camping gear? See our Camping section for our most popular stories.

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Best Camping Kitchen Table: GCI Outdoor Outdoor Slim-Fold Cook Station

Surface area and Height: 52 x 21 x 32" 
Folded Dimensions: 27.2 x 24.2 x 3.5" 
Weight: 18.9 lbs
Material: 1-piece powder coated steel frame
What we liked: three levels of storage racks, cookstove/grill compatible aluminum table top, cup holders and hooks, good value price, easy folding and portability
What we didn't like: we wish the side tables were also aluminum, lack of table height adjustability, requires securing legs 

You want options? The GCI Outdoor Slim-Fold Cook Station gives you plenty of ‘em. GCI thought of just about everything when it comes to this kitchen cook station table — it sports three levels of storage racks or table tops, has a cookstove/grill-compatible aluminum tabletop at the top, utilizes cup holders and hooks built into the side tables for extra pizazz, sits just under the $100 mark, and folds down to the size of a collapsed beach chair, all in one foldable piece. (You read that right — all of those side tables are already attached, so no losing a wing to the depths of your closet between now and next camping season!) 

The GCI Outdoor Slim-Fold Camping Station’s side tables alone are a camp kitchen master’s dream. The cupholders can house marinade and ketchup bottles (or your beverage), while the “hooks” serve a myriad of purposes. Did you bring your camping-couture stemmed wine glass with you? Rest the stem in the hook to hold your glass in place. Need a place to keep the paper towels from blowing away? Put a string through the roll and attach each end to the hooks. Need a place to hang your tongs, or a tableside garbage bag? Each side table sports these inward-curving hooks so you can have every option at your stove side. 

Related: Best Camping Tents

The metal grate on the bottom level served us well holding the dish bin and keeping our soft cooler full of meats and veggies handy, and held up well despite several bumps from curious dog noses.

The aluminum countertop withstood a camp stove easily, although we would have liked the side tables to be made of the same material at times. (Juggling several hot pans and pots when cooking for 6+ people would have been easier with a place to put the pans that wasn’t plastic.) However, when taking on an ambitious meal like steak and risotto or biscuits and gravy for 6 folks, the four plastic side tables were nothing short of miraculously helpful. 

All in all, it’s the considerate design that won us over with the GCI Outdoor Slim-Fold Cook Station — the extra space that can be folded up or tucked away as needed, the cookstove-safe top, the durable steel braces, the clever cut-out hooks to hold all of our accessories elevated our camp cooking experience to a new level. 

Our testers’ minor complaints were about the lack of adjustability (one taller tester felt like he had to stoop down to use the camp table) and that the table could be tippy if not “dug in” or set on a flat surface properly, which adjustable legs would have helped. However, with forethought and good planning (bury the two legs in the rocks, if your campsite has gravel!), the GCI Outdoor Slim-Fold table will rock your camping world. 

Best lightweight portable camping table: Helinox Table One

Surface area and height: 16 x 23.5 x 15.5 inches (length x width x height)
Packed dimensions: 4.3 x 4.3 x 16"
Weight: 1 lb 8 oz
Material: Aluminum, durable mesh and rip-stop polyester
What we liked: Less than 2 lbs, sunken cup holders mid-table, holds over 100 lbs of weight, super fast set-up, 5 year warranty 
What we didn't like: Low height

We were nearly convinced that the Helinox Table One should take the Overall Best Camping Table Winner slot thanks to its mere 1.5 pounds, its great packability, its 110-pound weight rating, its strong weather-resistant mesh top, and its snap-in-place easy setup. The only reason it didn’t? The lower height profile works well between two camp chairs or next to the campfire but isn’t the best for bigger groups or standing up to cook. However, when it comes to out-on-the-trail camping, no table made a better impression on us than the Helinox Table One, making it the winner for best camping table for those who value weight over height.

The Helinox Table One packs down to a mere 4.5 by 4.5 by 16 inches, making it easy to store in a pack while you’re trekking to the campsite or to tuck into a tote bag for the day at the beach. When you’re ready for set up, shake out the spider-legged aluminum frame to line up the rods, attach the two runner rods that run lengthwise for support, and clip the weather-resistant, durable tabletop fabric into place at each corner.

Once set up, this folding camp table measures 23.5 by 16-inches on top and can hold over 100 pounds. Each side has an in-set cup holder that's handy for beverages standing steady, but the crescent-moon fabric design on each side (which helps steady your drinks) also makes it easier to balance other objects over top without losing them into the cupholders’ depths.  

Our testers have taken an older model of the Helinox Table One on road trips, camping trips, living out of an old Tacoma, and on backpacking trails from the Adirondack Mountains of New York to the Rocky Mountains of Colorado to the Coastal Mountains of Alaska and British Columbia.

One tester has kept it in that Tacoma for at least the last five years, where it comes in handy for apres ski parking lot feasts and for dinnertime prep on a weekend rafting trip. He loves the pack-away case that has kept the Helinox Table One in good, durable shape through all of his travels but loves how versatile it’s proven — from playing cards in the sand while dinner finishes after a rafting trip to a prep station for pancakes in Colorado’s high country. 

The mesh has survived campfire embers, rocks, mud, silt, and dogs knocking it over at camp (with the cups still staying in the cupholders, mind you), as well as being kept in the bottom of a raft for days on end. While the grime can make the table more difficult to connect, one quick rinse has cured any difficulties over the years. 

Not one piece of the Helinox One has failed him in over 200 days of use — “I’d like to never buy another camping table again,” he says, “and I don’t think I’ll have to.” If that doesn’t convince you of the Helinox Table One’s worthiness as our Best Lightweight Portable Table Pick, we don’t know what will.

Interested in camping gear? See our Camping section for our most popular stories.

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Best Camping Table Under $75 : Lifetime Adjustable Height 24”x48” Folding Table

Surface area and height: 48 x 28 heights: 24, 29, 36"
Folded dimensions: 48 x 24 x 2.3"
Weight: 19.2 lbs
Material: Steel frame, HDPE Top
What we liked: Ample space, simple set-up/breakdown, sturdy, affordable, adjustable height, carrying handle
What we didn't like: Weight

Simple, spacious, durable, and affordable. One look at this folding table and you know its value — you’ve seen it at every camp craft corner, every picnic, every school fundraiser, every sports game, any event you could think of utilizes this table. But what makes the Lifetime Adjustable Folding Camping Table stand out from every other camp table you’ve carried and set up at every family reunion? Three characteristics: the adjustable legs, the carrying handle, and the middle-fold design. Why else did we love this table? Because of its affordability. 

The Lifetime Adjustable Folding Camping Table is certainly not our lightest table pick, nor is it our most decked-out. However, its price for its capacity swept the board for any of our other options. 

Eight square feet of tabletop gives you plenty of surface area for the whole family to gather around and eat, ample space to cook and serve, or tons of real estate for games. Four adjustable height settings make it easy to fit this table to whatever chair height (or standing height) you may need. Plus, it holds one of our top weight capacity titles at 200 pounds — bring on the potato salad competition. 

The powder-coated stainless steel legs and frame, plus the high-density polyethylene plastic hard top, give this folding camping table a sturdy, durable, waterproof edge. It can not only handle heat and cold but will withstand rain, snow, hail, sand, rocks, mud, and enthusiastic canines with ease, thanks to impact-resistant corners and a wide leg stance which helps with balance. For a solid, sturdy folding camping table that won’t break your budget and will last you through several camping seasons to come, the Lifetime Adjustable Folding Table is a great pick.

Related: Gear we like for Backyard Camping

Best camping table with sink: Goplus Folding Fishing and Hunting Cleaning Table with Faucet and Sprayer

Surface area and height: 23 x 45  x 37 inches (length x width x height)
Packed dimensions: 45 x 23 x 3"
Weight: 22 lbs
Material: Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, High Density Polyethylene, Iron
What we liked: Included sprayer, faucet, and drainage hose, sink on the side, prep surface area, lots of table space
What we didn't like: No adjustable height, weight, easy storage size  

Cook like you’re at home while you’re camping in the woods or on the coast. The Goplus Folding Table with Faucet and Sprayer allows you to connect a garden hose to both a sink and a sprayer for directed water flow and allows you to collect your wastewater in a bucket or gray water tank. No more dumping gallon jugs over your vegetables or fileting a fish next to the stream — your workspace awaits you right at your campsite with as much ease as if you were standing in your own kitchen. 

The GoPlus Folding table with Faucet comes with a good amount of workspace for chopping or holding up a camp stove.

The sloped sink on the GoPlus folding fishing and hunting camping table

The GoPlus Folding table comes with a hose so you can hook up the drain to a greywater tap. It acts as the pipe from the bottom of the sink down to your grey water storage. Since we didn’t have a grey water tank with us, we improvised with a bucket.

This somewhat unconventional folding camping table is a great middle-ground for kitchen prep — it’s spacious with a flat prep surface area next to the sink — and even has knife storage on the opposite end to keep you safe from blades.

The faucet rotates 360 degrees, so you can fill up a water bottle just as easily as you can wash a dish. The drainage hole and plug make it easy for you to catch bigger pieces from going down the drain or fill up your sink to soak a dish. 

However, it’s the sprayer that we really loved — not only was it helpful for washing dirt off of fruits and veggies that spilled from a bag, it was great for rinsing out dishes, hosing down dirty feet, and spraying off tough burned pieces from a dinner left too long on the stove. 

There were a few things we didn’t love about the Goplus Folding Table with Faucet and Sprayer, but they were to be expected — the lack of adjustable height was one issue, as the camp table stands on the taller side.

While the sturdy plastic hard top is great for meal prep and cleaning, it didn’t give us the ability to cook on top of the space with a grill or stove.

Last but not least, this is not a very “packable” table in terms of size — unless you have a space tall enough or wide enough to hold this table, it can be difficult to tuck it away when not in use since it’s a whopping 45-inches by 23-inches. 

However, for its intended use — a big prep area with a functioning sink — the GoPlus Folding Table with Faucet and Sprayer knocks it out of the park.

Just make sure you have a water source and a garden hose handy, and you’re good to go!

Related: Best Beginner Fly Fishing Combos

Best camping table for grills: ALPS Mountaineering Dining Table (Regular)

Surface area and height: 28 x 43 x 28 inches (length x width x height)
Packed dimensions: 43 x 7.5 x 5"
Weight: 12 lbs
Material: Aluminum
What we liked: Entire tabletop is able to handle hot pans/cook stoves/grills, spacious, easy to set up
What we didn't like: Can unhook roll top with one good bump 

We love an entire camp table that can take on the chaos of cooking for a group of people — especially one that can handle hot pots, pans, stoves, and camping grills sitting atop it. The ALPS Mountaineering Dining Table won our top pick for grilling for exactly that reason: we had plenty of space to utilize, and none of it was off-limits to hot items.

At just over 8 square feet of tabletop, we had no problem with space to use while cooking up pancakes for 6 people using multiple pans (because no one should wait on fresh blueberry pancakes on a beautiful summer morning in Maine).

We rotated through 3-4 pans from our two-burner stove to the tabletop to keep breakfast rolling and were able to put the hot-off-the-stove pans directly onto the tabletop for hungry campers to scavenge from.

Cleanup was easy with one good wipe from a damp paper towel, and we could pack up the table and head out for a hike. For dinner, we pulled out a small grill and cooked up kebabs with ease — just beware that the table underneath will stay hot for a while after you turn the grill off! 

While we wouldn’t recommend leaving this camp table out in direct sunlight (the aluminum heats up quickly, and you might burn a finger if you’re not careful), it held up beautifully to the elements when left in the sun and rain for 5+ days. 

It took a good look at the directions for our testers to intuit how to set up and fold up the base correctly, but after one good try, everyone could do so with ease. The slat-design roll top was easy to fold like a paper fan, and an included rubber band keeps the whole top together easily. (The storage bag didn’t hurt, either.) 

The ALPS Mountaineering Dining Table is available in three sizes — square (31" W x 31" L x 28" H), regular (28" W x 43" L x 28" H, which we tested), and XL (28" W x 55" L x 28" H). While none of these options is on the cheaper end, ALPS used quality aluminum to build a sturdy, durable roll-top table for all of your grilling needs. Fire up the coals and get cooking!

Best camping table with storage: Camp Chef Sherpa Table

Surface area and height: 28 x 43W x 28 inches (length x width x height)
Packed dimensions: 15.75 x 27 x 18.25"
Weight: 12 lbs
Material: Aluminum
What we liked: Entire tabletop is able to handle hot pans/cook stoves/grills, spacious, easy to set up
What we didn't like: Can unhook roll top with one good bump 

The Camp Chef Sherpa Table is the ultimate organization for your camping kitchen set up. The Camp Chef Sherpa Table comes with one table that utilizes a zippered storage pouch underneath the tabletop to hold the four included storage cubes and telescoping legs for a maximum height of 28 inches. 

We found this space to be more than enough to carry our cookware, utensils, Jetboil Flash, half a dozen tumblers, firestarters, and s'mores equipment, with room to spare. 

This made packing everything in the car easy and even easier to store at home. All your camping stuff is in one spot. The legs are removable for transporting in your car. If you've got room in your garage/gear storage area, you can keep the legs on. It's so convenient, we frequently use this table camping and for every backyard barbeque or get together.

Storage pocket on Camp Chef Sherpa Table with zippered organizer compartment

Corner frame and tabletop support on Camp Chef Sherpa Table

Camp Chef Sherpa Table used as a camp kitchen with cookware and drinks on the tabletop

Storage compartment on Camp Chef Sherpa Table with carrying handle

The magic lies within both the storage cubes and the zippered bin below the tabletop. Each primary-colored storage cube is crafted from 600-denier fabric, which does well with the wear and tear that comes from tossing these cubes on the ground, in the sand, and over rocks and splintered wooden tables. The blue cube is even rubber-lined, designed to be used as a wash bin or even a cooler.

The camp table was also great for cooking at a Crazy Creek chair height or from a picnic table.

A plastic label shield on the foot of each cube lets you mark precisely what belongs in which cube, so (in theory) you should never have to go digging for the spatula ever again. (The handle helps with the grabbing of a pair of tongs right before the kebabs burn, too.) Each cube is 12 inches by 11 inches by 6.5 inches, for a total of 3.7 gallons of storage space. All four cubes stack within the zippered compartment for easy transport or storage post-meal. 

Overall, our own testers and everyday Amazon users remarked on the organizational genius and stability of this table, even with unevenly distributed weight on the tabletop. The hands-down everyone’s favorite when it came to camp kitchen storage.

Best camping side table: Nemo Moonlander Table

Surface area and height: 19 x 15 x 16 inches (length x width x height)
Folded Dimensions: 14.5 x 9.5 x 1.5 inches (length x width x height)
Weight: 4 lbs. 14 oz.
Surface area:
Material: Tabletop Material(s) Nylon Frame Construction Aluminum
What we liked: Picnic table height and side-table height options, twist-in legs for stability, carrying case, high-quality materials, simple setup 
What we didn't like: price 

Our editor-in-chief has tested this camp table to its limits and sings its praises from the summits.

The Nemo Moonlander Table packs away to the size of a laptop, sets up in a snap, sports two heights, and weighs little enough to easily pack for all but the lightest of backpacking trips. She and her partner used it on ​​a 2,300-mile National and State Park road trip when no other portable camping table would have fit with the other gear (and an extra friend plus full backpack mid-trip) along the way.

Thanks to its light weight, stability on uneven terrain, and compactability — plus the double height options — the Nemo Moonlander made the trip exponentially more enjoyable.

The tabletop held up well to hot drinks, hot summer sun, and even hot foil-wrapped ears of corn at a BBQ. 

Overall, the price can be a hindrance. That's one reason that in 2025, we chose a new winner for best side table. But after another year of testing, that table broke, was unstable, and unreliable. While the Moonlander is expensive, this is the type of table that will last a lifetime of camping. If you need extra portability or compactness (for road trips or van life), the Moonlander is the best side table you can get.

What she — and other testers and user reviews — appreciated the most about the Nemo Moonlander was its stability at either height. 

Black wings unfold on aluminum hinges and snap into place for the picnic table height option, which gives you both a stable surface and a raised platform from dirt and insects. When you’re ready for a side table for your camp chair, Crazy Creek, or fireside log, twist-lock in the aluminum/carbon fiber legs for a 16-inch lift and stabilize your snacks and beverages wherever you camp — whether it's a developed or undeveloped campsite. (Read: uneven ground like desert sand, half-buried boulders, shrubs, and soft dirt — all which aren’t an issue when your apres hike beverages are perched on top.) Our testers were impressed by the low-effort setup (not having to read the instructions is a major plus), although the twist-lock legs can take a moment to get used to. 

Tuck this table between camp chairs, beside the fire pit, or on top of the picnic blanket for easy use in any scenario. When you’re ready to pack up, zip the whole table back into its carrying case and pop it in the trunk or your pack. This is the kind of carrying case you’ll want to hold onto, too, says our editor-in-chief tester: “I often have the worst time getting gear back into its stuff sack, and the Moonlander is the one piece of gear where that isn’t a struggle.” 

This table is time-tested, easy to use, a breeze to pack, and a compact option that can serve you in any context.

Other camping tables we tested

Rock Cloud Portable Camping Table

Surface area and height: 21 x 16.5 x 15 inches (length x width x height)
Folded dimensions: 17.3 x 5.1 x 4.3 inches
Weight: 3.5 lbs
Material: aluminum alloy, mesh net 

If the Nemo Moonlander hadn’t wowed the crowd with its raving reviews, the Rock Cloud Portable Camping Table would have been our #1 pick for camping side tables. This table was not only one of the most budget-friendly picks on our list, it was easy to set up, packs down small, and weighs just 3.5 pounds. The aluminum slats settle on top of the aluminum frame, much like a roll-top — minus the bungee cords of a roll-top that could fray or lose elasticity with time.

For picnics, the mesh net underneath worked wonders for keeping electronics out of the sun and holding sunscreen or a book underneath. It’s affordable, easy to use, packable, and lightweight.

The tabletop held up well to hot drinks, hot summer sun, and even hot foil-wrapped ears of corn at a BBQ. For picnics, the mesh net underneath worked wonders for keeping electronics out of the sun and holding sunscreen or a book underneath. Despite the Nemo Moonlander’s two height options, stellar reviews, and overall popularity, we couldn’t justify its lofty price tag for a side table. Thus, the Rock Cloud Portable Camping Table has earned our top spot — it’s affordable, easy to use, packable, and lightweight.

This is a table that looked promising as an affordable budget camp table.

Dometic Go Compact Table

Dimensions: 39.37 x 27.36 x 25.59"
Packed dimensions: 26.77 x 4.92 x 21.26"
Weight: 20.64
Material: Bamboo, aluminum

The Dometic Go Compact table is our recommended camp table in our Ultimate Camping Gear Checklist. 

Treeline Review writer Erica Zazo likes the Go Compact Table for its durable build, stylish design, and portable and collapsible features. 

It has excellent attention to detail and is great for doubling as a backyard table. That kind of versatility is something we appreciate in camp gear. 

We think it's great when your camping gear can be your home gear and then you only have to buy one.

Still, at 20 lbs, we found this camp table to be heavy and it takes up significant storage space in the off-season. If you plan to use this table in everyday life and also take it camping, we think it's the best option. If you are looking for a camp table to only use for camping, we think you'd be better served by more portable models.

Coleman Outdoor Compact Table

Dimensions: 8 x 8 x 28.5 inches (length x width x height)
Packed dimensions: 18 x 18 x 2"
Weight: 10 lbs
Material: Aluminum slat top and strong steel frame

Another good runner-up to our Best Roll Top/Grilling Table, the Coleman Outdoor Compact Table is a smaller, lighter, and cheaper table but just as effective.

Ultimately, it didn’t make it to our list of best camping tables because of the smaller table space, but for a space-saving option with a strong steel frame, grill- or stove-proof aluminum top, and easy set-up table, you can rest assured that the Coleman Compact Table earned our stamp of approval. The snap-held design keeps the table secure while the non-slip legs steady the contents on the tabletop. (Note, the legs don’t adjust in height, so choose your table site appropriately.)

Tailgater Tire Table Original Steel Table

Dimensions: 1.5 x 29 x 23 inches (length x width x height)
Packed dimensions: 29 x 24 x 3"
Weight: 13 lbs
Material: steel or aluminum options

While we didn’t quite know how to categorize this table, it was easily one of our favorites, if only for the novelty of it.

A car camper’s dream, this table fits over truck tires and the spare tire on the back of a Jeep for a little extra space when the tailgate filled up.

The screw-down clamps make it easy to adjust and maneuver for different tire sizes, while the adjustable stabilizing leg gives you added security and stability. Available in both a steel and an aluminum option (we tested the steel version), both options are durable with a few key differences — the weight and price.

The steel version weighs 13 pounds, supports up to 70 pounds, and costs $140, while the aluminum version weighs only 5.5 pounds, holds up to 50 pounds, and costs $175. Ultimately this table was a little too niche for us to grant it a full winner’s spot, but we never want to take this out of the Jeep just in case an adventure arises. (Just make sure you take it off the tire before driving away, or you won’t get too far.)

GCI Outdoor Compact Camp 2.0

Surface area and height: 20 x 18 x 24 inches (length x width x height) 
Folded Dimensions: 18 x 18 x 2 inches 
Weight: 4 lbs.13 oz.
Material: Aluminum Frame Construction Steel 

The GCI Outdoor Compact Camp 2.0 was one of our most affordable and easiest setup options that we love for a camper, keeping in the truck for the campsite or afternoon by the lake, or having around the back yard. We tested this table on a long weekend at York Beach in Maine, and it worked perfectly for lunch, snacks, beverages, and sunscreen in between jaunts through the waves. 

As one whole piece, the GCI Compact Table slides down into a slim, easy-to-carry unit and sets up just as quickly. It settled in well in the sand and kept everything stable and secure throughout the weekend, no matter how many kids ran past it or sand got into the crevices. The height is perfect for camp chair usage but worked well to keep devices and books out of the sand from towel-on-the-beach level, as well. 

Overall, we loved the durability, bigger tabletop, and lighter weight of the Nemo Moonlander more for our Best Side Table pick, and the even lighter set up of the Helinox Table One for our Best Lightweight Portable Table pick. However, for the car camper, road tripper, backyard barbecuer, and beachgoer, the GCI Compact is a great (and affordable) camping table option.

Mountain Summit Gear Heavy-Duty Roll-Top Table

Surface area and height: 37 x 28 x 28 inches (length x width x height) 
Packed Dimensions: 31 x 9 x 6 inches
Weight: 14 lbs
Material: Steel frame, aluminum tabletop 

While we really appreciated the easy setup, the durable materials, and the price for what you get, we couldn’t justify the Mountain Summit Gear Heavy-Duty Roll-Top Table over the ALPS Mountaineering Dining Table. In the end, we (and the reviewers) liked the ALPS Mountaineering Dining Table just a bit more for its ease of setup and lighter weight. However, the Mountain Summit Gear Heavy-Duty Roll-Top Table has some major perks — it’s more table space, it’s cheaper, and is designed to be sturdy. If that sounds up your alley, this roll-top table is a great addition to your camping kitchen gear — especially for grilling!

Rock Cloud Portable Camping Table Medium

Surface area and height: 16x22 inches surface area 16 inches tall
Folded Dimensions: 24in x 6.5in
Weight: 3.1 lbs
Material: Aluminum
What we liked: Lightweight, quick to set up and break down
What we didn’t like: Not as durable as other tables we tested, the top can pop off when you move it.

The Rock Cloud Portable Camping Table is a very lightweight camping table that is quick to set up and takes up very little space in your car. The shorter height works nicely with smaller chairs like the NEMO Moonlight Elite as an eating surface or pairs nicely with taller chairs, like the Yeti Trailhead Camp Chair, as a surface to hold drinks or play a game of cards between two chairs. It sits a little lower with a standard sized chair and is not perfect for eating a meal but is the perfect height as a side table. 

This table isn’t as sturdy as some of the other tables that we tested. When we tried to move it, the tabletop piece/panel popped off and had to be put back into place. This wasn’t a huge deal, but meant we had to take everything off the top before moving it to another spot. It sets up very quickly similar to the REI Camp Roll Table, just without the elastic between the slats, making it a bit more tricky to get right into place.

Rock Cloud Portable Camping Table Medium

Rock Cloud Portable Camping Table used for coffee at a campsite

Rock Cloud Portable Camping Table set up between camping chairs at a campsite

Rock Cloud Portable Camping Table used as a side table between camp chairs

Camper relaxing beside Rock Cloud Portable Camping Table at a campsite

We like this table for light solo camping outings without dogs. We have used it as a surface to hold our backpacking stove set up and made coffee and breakfast on it. We love the small footprint in our car and the easier-to-carry weight. We have taken this table to music in the park outings since it is so light to hold drinks and snacks. It packs into a tote bag or backpack with our NEMO Moonlite Elite chair. It is also a nice table for beach or creek days, since it is so close to the ground you can set it up next to a towel and keep the sand out of your drinks and sunscreen. 

The aluminum surface is easy to clean with a wipe, which we really liked after camping in an area with aggressive raccoons who left footprints all over the table at night.

How to choose a camping table

Types of Camping Tables

A table is a table is a table, right? Technically, you are correct, but several nuances distinguish the best camping tables that are suitable for different activities and camping situations.

A folding table (like our Lifetime pick) is generally sturdy but on the heavier side. A roll-top table can be great for car camping and rafting trips but holds less weight than a traditional folding table. A lightweight portable camping table, like the Helinox One, can be a great addition to a backpacking trip but won’t cut it if you’re out at the lake grilling for a half-dozen people. There are side tables, kitchen tables, grilling tables, large tables, small tables — any kind of table you can imagine. So what’s best for you? The questions (and answers) below should give you a good idea! 

How often do you go camping?

No shame here — not all of us can disappear for 6 months to hike the AT! If you’re a solid weekend warrior, you might be willing to drop some dough on a super-tough table that will hold up to your every-weekend excursions. However, if your camping plans look more like a handful of times a year, you might not want to break the bank on a camping table. 

If you’re the former, you might be interested in a burly option like the Go Plus Slim Fold or Master Kitchen Table. If you’re the latter, you might want a great budget option like the Coleman Compact or Lifetime Folding Table. When in doubt, we’d argue for quality that will last you over a cheap option, but we leave that to your own prerogatives.  

How many people do you camp with?

More people, larger table! If you’re looking to host a multi-family affair or want ample space for your good friends, we would recommend camping tables like the Lifetime Folding Table, the REI Camp Prep Table, or even the ALPS Mountaineering Dining Table in XL.

If it’s just yourself or you and your partner, then space might not be as much of an issue (without sacrificing room for all the fixings or enough space to win at cards, of course). A camping table like the Nemo Moonlander, the Coleman Compact, or the Rock Cloud Portable Table might be just the ticket for this sized crew.  

How much do you want to spend?

Arguably one of the most important points when shopping for a camping table is your budget. You might be very budget conscious and cautious about spending money on a camping “accessory,” or you might be willing to spend a little extra if it means you won’t be replacing your table in the next 10 years of use. Whatever your budget, we made sure to find durable options for every price range. 

Do you want a dining table or a cooking station — or a multi-functional table?

While you can absolutely pull double duty with either style of camping table, they really are designed with one purpose (or the other) in mind.

For example, the GoPlus Slimfold Cook Station is our pick for the best kitchen table, with its many fold-out table expanders and multi-level storage options.

Once you’re done cooking, you could fold it up and use just the top as a dining table — however, the height and the easy storage-minded design might make that a little more difficult. The REI Camp Prep Table, on the other hand, won our Best Overall pick because of its versatility — it can be raised up high enough to serve as a great prep table, with ample space for your cooking endeavors, and the aluminum top allows you to set up a stove or grill and cook right from the tabletop.

However, when you’re ready to eat, you can clean up and adjust the table legs to the height of your chairs, with plenty of space for folks to fit around the table.

What to look for in a camping table

Materials

Plastic table tops can be extremely useful (and sometimes, lighter weight) — easy to clean, don’t get as hot in the sun, and hold up well in wet weather. However, if you plan to cook on your table, we strongly suggest a metal-topped table, as a cook stove or grill will melt right through the plastic. 

Look for camping tables with durable materials like aluminum, steel, reinforced canvas, or rotomolded plastic that will hold up against the elements and stay sturdy for years to come. 

Size & Packability 

You want your table to be big enough for your crew of fellow campers or give you enough space to cook your campsite cuisine. However, make sure you pick a camping table that will pack down easily to transport and won’t take up your entire storage closet when you’re not using it. All of our camping table picks fold or break down to a smaller storage size, but some (like the REI Camp Prep table or the Lifetime Utility Table) are still relatively large (especially compared to the Nemo Moonlander or the Rock Cloud Table). Find one that works not only for your campsite but for your storage capacity, too! 

Weight & Portability

We chose the Helinox Table One as our Best Lightweight pick for a reason — weight matters when bringing a portable table with you on a hiking trip! We made sure to include several different weight options with our camping table picks, from lighter weight tables like the Nemo Moonlander and the Rock Cloud Portable to heftier tables for car camping like the REI Camp Prep or the GoPlus Camp Sink Table. Keep in mind what each table weighs as you “weigh” your decision — you wouldn’t want to pack an 18-pound table for a hiking trip, but a 1.4-pound table might not cut it for car camping at a windy campsite. 

Height

Before we started testing our camping tables, our testers didn’t realize how much of a difference a table height could truly make. Once we began testing, however, it became clear just how important this aspect is. 

Adjustable height tables make a significant difference between cooking (where you’re generally standing) and eating (where you’re generally sitting). Some of our options, like the Nemo Moonlander, also give you options for picnic table height or using chairs like a Crazy Creek, where you are much lower to the ground than a traditional table.

Others, like the REI Camp Prep Table, were helpful for a slanted campsite — singularly adjustable table legs made it easy to level out the tabletop by putting the right two legs at the “4” setting and the left two legs on the “2” setting, for instance. This increased both the stability of the table, as well as its effectiveness by leveling out the tabletop. 

In general, look for a kitchen camping table that can either be adjusted or start off higher for easier cooking while standing. On the same token, look for a dining table that fits the height of your camping chairs better or can be adjusted to fit your chairs more easily. 

Weight Capacity

Check out our comparison chart for weight capacities for the tables we tested. Make sure your camping table can handle the amount of food (or drinks, or rocks, or arts and crafts supplies) that you intend to rest on the tabletop. Our burliest weight capacity from all the tables we tested was a whopping 220 pounds on the GoPlus Camping Sink Table, while our lowest weight capacity was 48 pounds on the top rack of the GCI Slim Fold Kitchen table.

Durability

Above all else, we wanted to test (and review) camping tables that could go the distance — hold every cooler, take on every family picnic’s pasta salad, survive every camping trip’s hot dog dinner. To make sure we brought you tables that would take on the elements, hold up against the record-breaking amount of s’mores, and work just as well five years in the future as it did the first time you set it up.

To do so, we tested tables made with durable, weather-proof materials (like rotomolded plastic and heavy-duty steel), and carefully engineered aspects like hinges and locks to keep the legs sturdy and secure. 

However, keep in mind the terrain that you plan to use your camping table in. If you’re looking for a good beach day table, remember that sand can wear down and affect the durability of your table. If you’re going for a damp, rainy camping area often, remember that metal can rust. Proper cleaning and storage of your equipment when it’s not in use is key to increasing the longevity of your gear’s life, and keeping its durability at top notch. 

Setup Difficulty (Ease of Setup)

No one wants to be foiled by their table set up every time they get to camp. While a few of our tables required a look at the instructions (I won’t lie, I set up every table in my front yard before I took them on their first camping trip or to the beach to avoid such a scenario), each one of our picks was simple enough to set up and tear down — after the first time. 

Some camping tables may just take two moves — unfold and lock the legs. Other tables may require locking each prong of the support in place and rolling a table top over. Weigh your intended usage, size, weight, and budget against how little (or how much) set up and break down you’d like to do before you make your camping table purchase.

Table Accessories and Upgrades

The right accessories can make a transform a basic camping table into a versatile outdoor workstation. After testing dozens of add-ons and modifications, here are a few upgrades that we found actually improve functionality versus those that just add weight and complexity.

Essential Add-Ons

Table covers

A well-fitted table cover protects the surface of your camp table and keeps your cooking surface clean (trust us!). Look for covers with elastic edges that won't blow off in wind, or tie-down systems that secure to the table legs. You can also use your table cover in the off-season. Waterproof materials prevent moisture damage while you're storing it in the garage. Meanwhile, if you camp somewhere with intense sun, UV-resistant fabrics protect against sun degradation. You can learn more about blankets suitable to use on picnic and camping tables in our Best Camping and Outdoor Blankets guide.

Clip-on organizers and storage

We love some good organiation in our camp kitchen! Look for vertical storage options to keep your kitchen tools close, but out of the way until you need them. We like clip-on baskets that can hold utensils, spices, and frequently used items within arm's reach. Side-mounted organizers keep essential tools accessible without cluttering your work surface.

Lighting attachments for evening use

If you're like most camp chefs, especially those camping in the fall, cooking and dining after dark requires camp lights and lanterns. Clamp-on LED lights with flexible necks provide targeted illumination that can be adjusted as activities change.

Solar-powered lights eliminate battery concerns on longer trips, though they require daytime charging consideration. String lights create ambient lighting for dining and social activities, but position them to avoid interference with cooking tasks. You can read more in our Best Camping Lanterns and Lights guide.

Camping table care and maintenance tips

Ask my dad: a well-maintained camping table can last decades of adventures. But as a guide, after watching countless tables deteriorate over seasons of guiding on rivers and camping with kids, I've learned that a little maintenance goes a long way to keeping a camp table from cracking, breaking, and ultimately ending up in the landfill.

Different table materials need different cleaners

Aluminum and metal tables are going to need a different level of TLC than plastic camp tables. Here are a few tips on which cleaners to use.

Aluminum care and oxidation prevention

Clean aluminum surfaces with mild soap and water after each trip, paying special attention to joints where corrosive materials accumulate, especially if you are anywhere sandy or salty. For stubborn stains or oxidation, specialized aluminum cleaners work better than your typical household cleaning products. Avoid chlorine-based cleaners, which can cause pitting. After cleaning, dry components thoroughly—water trapped in mechanisms can cause corrosion that affects function.

Plastic surface maintenance

Plastic surfaces resist damage but require gentle care to maintain UV-protective coatings. Use mild detergents and soft cloths for routine cleaning. Heat damage (like from a camp grill) is usually permanent, but minor scratches can be minimized with plastic polish. For stubborn stains, try baking soda paste before resorting to stronger cleaners.

Wood treatment and protection

We didn't test many wood camp tables, but if you opt for one, know that wood surfaces need the most maintenance. Clean with mild soap and minimal water, working with the grain. Dry thoroughly and inspect finishes regularly—reapply protective treatments annually for high-use tables. Oil-based treatments penetrate deeper than surface coatings but require more frequent reapplication.

How to store a camp table

Fold it right and watch for climate control

Clean your table before putting it away for the season. Then, do a real good job folding it completely, and watch for grit damaging mechanisms. If your table has any fabric components, dry those out completely before storing. Believe me–a moldy table is no fun. Lastly, to the best extent you can, store your table in climate-controlled environments when possible. It isn't as make-or-break it as other outdoor gear, but extreme temperatures and humidity can still affect all materials and can cause cracking, brittleness, or corrosion.

Lubrication and seasonal inspection

Use only manufacturer-recommended lubricants on moving parts, applying sparingly to avoid attracting dirt and sand. Before each season, inspect thoroughly for wear, damage, or corrosion. Check locking mechanisms for proper engagement and test weight capacity with known loads—age and use can reduce load-bearing capability.

How to repair your camp table in the field

Emergency repairs

I always carry duct tape, zip ties, and basic tools for common failures. Bent legs sometimes can be gently straightened to restore function, but be careful not to over-bend aluminum. For telescoping leg failures, flush mechanisms with clean water to clear debris. Use cutting boards or mats to cover surface damage and provide safe prep areas.

When safety becomes a concern

Some failures on your camp table create hazards that shouldn't be improvised around. If structural damage affects stability, locking mechanisms fail, or surface damage creates sharp edges or heat resistance issues, keep anything hot, breakable, and sharp off your table. Depending on what you're doing and the gear you are using, you may even have to end the trip (though we hope it doesn't come to that). Trust your judgment—trip inconvenience is minor compared to preventable burns and cuts.

FAQ

• What should I look for in a camping table?

  Choose a camping table based on how you camp. Key features include durability, portability, weight, adjustable height, surface material, and ease of setup. If you plan to cook, make sure the tabletop is heat-resistant. For dining or games, look for a larger surface area and a comfortable table height that matches your camp chairs.

• Can you cook on a camping table?

  Yes, but only on tables designed to handle heat. Look for camping tables with metal tops (like aluminum or steel). Avoid placing hot stoves or pans directly on plastic surfaces, which can melt or warp.

• Are there camping tables with sinks or storage?

  Yes. Some models, like camp kitchen tables, include sinks, sprayers, or built-in storage compartments. These are great for food prep, dishwashing, and keeping your cooking gear organized at camp.

• What’s the best height for a camping table?

  It depends on your use. Tables around 28–32 inches high work well for food prep and cooking and are designed to work with camp grills. Lower tables (15–25 inches) are better for use with camp chairs or as side tables. Adjustable-height tables give you the most versatility.

• What’s the difference between a folding table and a roll-top camping table?

  Folding tables are usually sturdier and offer higher weight capacities but are bulkier when packed. Roll-top tables are more compact and easier to transport, but they may offer less surface stability or strength.

• How much weight can a camping table hold?

  Weight limits vary widely. Ultralight tables may hold 50–100 lbs, while heavy-duty options can support over 200 lbs. Always check the manufacturer’s weight rating before using a table for cooking or heavy gear.

• Can I use a camping table for indoor or backyard use?

  Absolutely. Many camping tables are versatile enough for backyard BBQs, picnics, or as extra tables at home. Some, like the Dometic Go Table or Lifetime Folding Table, are stylish and sturdy enough for regular indoor use.

• What’s the best camping table for backpacking?

  For backpacking or minimalist trips, look for ultralight tables like the Helinox Table One or the Rock Cloud. These weigh under 1 lb, pack down small, and are perfect for trailside meals or campfire snacks. For ultralight backpackers, we recommend the Cascade Wild folding table, which weighs 2.3 oz.

• Are camping tables waterproof?

  Most camping tables are made from water-resistant materials like aluminum, powder-coated steel, or high-density plastic. However, it’s best to dry them off after wet use and avoid long-term exposure to rain to prevent wear and rust.

How we tested

We’ve been testing camp tables for the past four years.

Our main tester took the tables out into the woods of Western Maine, along the Maine coast, around the White Mountains of New Hampshire, in backyards, on front porches, in the middle of New England farms and gardens, and by sandy riverbanks.

From backyard grill-outs to beach weekends to late dinners by the river, from scorching sun to summer downpours, these tables withstood a lot in the few weeks we had to test them.

They were used to hold platters of food at a Downeast family reunion, keep drinks, books, and phones out of the sand at York Beach, and even served as the writing platform for this table review on the front porch of my family’s home.

Every camping table was left outside for 5+ days in the hottest (and then rainiest) days of Western Maine’s summer to see how they handled temperature fluctuations, wind, and rain. Each proved its toughness in the backwoods and at the rocky coasts of New England’s best hangouts.

In addition to our main tester, we had testers take camp tables out in the deserts of Joshua Tree, the Mojave Desert, and the Sonoran desert in Arizona. We also had testers take these camp tables to the beach in Oregon and the temperate rain forest of Washington state.

• Compared tables in real campsites
• Left them outdoors for 5+ days
• Used them for cooking and dining
• Tested them on sand and rocky ground
• Took them camping, rafting, and backpacking

• Stability and weight capacity
• Setup and breakdown
• Durability and weather resistance
• Weight and packed size
• Versatility and overall value

About the author / Why you should trust us

I spent nearly 8 years of my life as a river and backpacking guide, but nearly 20 years camping. I know firsthand how a table at your campsite has the ability to make or break your experience, whether that be cooking dinner on the banks of the Salmon River in an Idaho summer rainstorm after a full day of rafting or making breakfast for 6 in the red dirt of Utah while car camping for the weekend. Tables (and chairs) became a great way to encourage more people to join us in outdoor activities — those of us with bad shoulders, backs, hips, or knees felt more relief and more comfortable with a table to lean on or cook on rather than stooping to the ground or balancing on a rock. 

In my time as a backpacking, rock climbing, hiking, and rafting guide in Alaska and Colorado, using tables to plan the day, prep and serve meals, pack for the day’s adventures or just decompress and have somewhere to set your book and your coffee on made a huge difference. Multi-day rafting trips used tables to keep the silt and sand out of our food for every meal, even if the table was strapped down on a raft. Having a small camp table after a 6-mile hike to the basecamp felt like the height of luxury, but kept us sane under a tarp playing cards in a downpour. Even living out of the back of my ‘95 Tacoma on four cross-continent roadtrips from Maine to Colorado to Alaska and back again was drastically improved with the addition of a folding table, instead of just the tailgate (which functioned as both my doorway and my kitchen for far too long). 

My gear expertise stems from 6 years of gear reviews for Backpacker Magazine, 8 years of guiding, 20 years of camping adventures, and a plethora of gear-head friends. In addition, I’ve written outdoor lifestyle pieces for NRS’s Duct Tape Diaries, REI’s Uncommon Path Magazine, and Powder 7 Ski Shop’s Lift Line Blog. (For additional publications and upcoming articles, check out my website.)

Let it be known: no one in my family (including myself) is sponsored, an ambassador, or an employee of any of the companies mentioned here. Our reviews are unbiased, and we do this to help you find the best product for the price. Treeline Review doesn’t accept sponsored content, native advertising, or paid reviews.

You can see all of Josette's articles on her author page.

July 9th, 2026
Home > Gear Reviews > Hiking

Our verdict

We think the new Gossamer Gear FT3 trekking poles are the best trekking poles for thru-hiking, especially on trails like the Pacific Crest Trail or Tahoe Rim Trail, where ultralight poles are a must. The Gossamer Gear FT3 poles have all the ultralight features we loved of the older Gossamer Gear LT5s but with the speed of a quick-button system. These quick-button deployments are common in heavier poles, but a first for poles this lightweight. 

I'm a thru-hiker, fastpacker, former Appalachian Trail FKT-holder, and former board member of the American Long Distance Hiking Association. I've used every iteration of Gossamer Gear poles for literally thousands of miles over the past decade. When I first tried the Gossamer Gear FT3, it was like a lightbulb came on. I immediately knew these poles were Gossamer Gear's best poles yet.

While there are lighter twist-lock and lever poles out there, the FT3s are miles ahead in terms of usability and adjustability. They never slip, they never lose their lock, they don't require fiddling midday. This is a given with most heavier trekking poles, but as an ultralighter, for years I've accepted that with twist-locks, my poles will slip some throughout the day. 

The Gossamer Gear FT3 folding poles are a three-piece carbon pole that can, with the click of a button, become a sturdy, full-length trekking pole. This is convenient while running/trail racing and fastpacking when speed is of the essence. It is also so appreciated during thru-hiking, when patience fiddling with locks on poles can turn a meh day into a bad day. In my many years of thru-hiking, I've seen multiple thru-hikers throw poles in frustration. After testing, I’m confident that is not going to happen with the FT3s.

With the easy fold-in, deploy out system, the Gossamer Gear FT3 are easy to put away for sections of a peak that were cliffy where hands were needed. At 15” (38 cm) when folded, you can easily reach them while wearing your pack. For thru-hikers and ultralight backpackers, the printed on marking showing the height to set up your trekking pole shelter is the simple design feature we have been asking for.

Gossamer Gear FT3 Folding Trekking Poles

Another tester and I took out the FT3 trekking poles for four months from the Pacific Crest Trail in Oregon to coastal bluffs in Big Sur, California. I tested in the California Redwoods as well as peaks in Southern California and in the Eastern Sierra. We tested these poles on hikes with significant elevation gain on the PCT on well-maintained, well-graded trail.  We also tested on other abandoned trails on extremely steep and loose terrain leading up to summits. We tested while hiking and ultralight backpacking as well as off-trail scrambling. 

Ultralight carbon fiber trekking poles (from any brand) are an investment, but if you want something ultralight that folds down easily and is designed especially for ultralight hikers and backpackers, this is it. Carbon fiber poles aren't for everyone, either. If you really lean into your poles, are mostly off-trail or on snow or talus, trip and fall a lot, go with an aluminum pole. But if you use poles for fording rivers, setting up shelters, or for extra stability on downhills, these are the poles for you. 

We write mission-driven gear reviews. To find the best gear, we combine expert reviews, everyday user opinions, and rigorous independent trail testing—never pop-up or display ads. We are reader-supported and may make a small commission from some qualifying affiliate links. Learn more.

Gossamer Gear FT3 Folding Trekking Poles specifications

• Price: $245

• Weight per pole: 6.2 oz | 178 g

• Rubber boot weight: 0.32 oz | 9 g each

• Folded length: 15" (38 cm)

• Minimum deployed length: 45" (115 cm)

• Maximum deployed length: 51" (130 cm)

• Top section diameter: 16.3 mm

• Middle section diameter: 12.7 mm

• Bottom section diameter: 12.7 mm

• Shaft: Carbon fiber

• Grip: Cork-like EVA foam

• Wrist strap: Built-in nylon webbing

• Tips: Carbide

• Locking mechanism: Push button deployment design with aluminum lever lock adjuster

• Baskets: Minimalist baskets included

• Carbon fiber breakage covered under warranty: No

• Carry-on friendly: Maybe with rubber boots on, check with your TSA agent (We successfully got it through a flight from Sacramento to Denver!)

Best for

• Thru-hikers and ultralight backpackers who want secure, folding carbon fiber poles

• Trail runners who want lightweight trekking poles that can be put away quickly 

• Ultralight hikers and peakbaggers who want lightweight poles that can be put away easily during scrambling

• Anyone setting up an ultralight trekking pole shelter, especially Gossamer Gear shelters

• Fans of the Gossamer Gear LT5 who want something without a twistlock function

• Fans of the LT5s who want to be able to reach back and grab their poles without taking off their pack

• People who want the lightest folding carbon fiber trekking poles

Comparison table

What we liked

• Stability and strength despite the weight

• Ease and speed of deploying poles

• Ease of adjusting poles

• Weight

• Clear lengths on edge of pole that are pre-calibrated for setting up shelters

What could be better

• Price

• Durability (though this is true for all carbon fiber running poles we tested)

How we tested

Another tester and I took out the FT3 trekking poles for four months. Both of us have used every iteration of Gossamer Gear poles for the past decade for literally thousands of miles.

To test the Gossamer FT3s, we used these poles from the Pacific Crest Trail in Oregon to summiting Mt. Ashland and on foothill trails in the Rogue Valley. We then took them for four days of hiking in the California Redwoods where we had to fold them up to crawl over and under redwood-sized blowdowns. From there, we hiked coastal bluffs in Big Sur California and Ventura, California, where trails are steep and loose and occasionally overgrown and we used the poles to push poison oak out of our way.

We also tested on extremely steep and loose peaks on abandoned trails in Southern California. These "trails" had burnt-out blowdowns and bushwhacking that required putting the poles away and then reactivating them once the trail got "good" again.

We also tested the FT3 on trails in the Eastern Sierra. There, we tested hiking and ultralight backpacking as well as off-trail scrambling, taking them up steep trails to alpine lakes as well as to lower elevation sagebrush and juniper forests. This is also where we tested setting up ultralight shelters with these poles including the Gossamer Gear Whisper Tent and the Slingfin Mid.

In addition to hundreds of miles of testing the FT3, we tested them side by side with other hiking and running poles, including carbon-fiber three-piece models like the Zpacks Minimalist Poles, the Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ, and the Gossamer Gear LT5s. Learn more in our Best Trekking Poles guide.

Performance in the field

Deployment speed

The FT3 folding trekking poles deploy quickly. We timed it and it took less than 6 seconds. If you're unfamiliar with button-based trekking pole deployment, it is worth watching the video to see how to do it. It's quite a departure from Gossamer Gear's LT5s (or the LT4) twist-locks. Black Diamond and Leki have been using similar button-deployment systems for a while, but their poles are heavier. 

Stiffness and load under use

As a long-time user of the LT5s and the LT4s and LT3s before them, I feel so much more secure with the stiffness and load under use of the FT3s than any of my other Gossamer Gear poles. These poles can really take some weight without slipping, buckling, or shrinking.

Grip

The cork-like grip on Gossamer Gear poles is legendary. I actually thought it was cork until looking it up. It's EVA foam that molds to your hands, doesn't get sweaty, and doesn't degrade with UV or use over time like most foam grips. It doesn't feel cold on chilly days. Leki (and some other pole manufacturers) use natural cork, which stands up better than most foams. In fact, we have Gossamer Gear poles made of this EVA foam that are over twelve years old and have thousands of miles of hiking on them. The same cannot be said of the foam on other poles we have tested.

The EVA-foam handles (the same as on other Gossamer Gear poles) mold to the hands, don't degrade over time or with UV like foam, and don't feel hot or sweaty after a long day. 

Wrist straps

I really like the wrist strap on the FT3s. Ultralight pole straps tend to come in two flavors: overbuilt for an ultralight pole (in which case, I remove them to save weight) or underbuilt and can cause chafing and digging in. The wrist straps on the FT3s make sense and tread the line between ultralight and comfortable. And if you want to make your system even lighter, you can remove them.

Easy to adjust ultralight wrist straps allow you to really dig in and use more of your body, similar to ski poles. 

Shelter setup

I don't know why no brand (to my knowledge) has thought this up before, but the FT3s have marks on the poles that show what height to set up a trekking pole shelter. For decades, ultralight hikers have been marking the spot with duct tape or paint pens. 

Despite all the warnings to set up your shelter at home each time before going on trail, I constantly find myself looking up on my phone from some ridge the exact height of poles needed or just going on what "looks right." While adding the trekking pole notch on the shelter is an incredibly small detail that probably doesn't cost Gossamer Gear much to add, it speaks to their core audience: thru-hikers and ultralight backpackers who use trekking poles during the day and then set up their ultralight shelters with the same poles at night.

Packability

We found the FT3 poles to be quite packable, fitting inside a minimalist daypack as well as adventure travel packs with ease. With the fast pack, we found they were easy to stow and retrieve mid fastpack thanks to a Velcro that keeps the poles together but doesn't get in the way when you're using them. With adventure travel packs, we found they weren't too tall to fit in side pockets for times when you're moving between locations.

Durability

The FT3 are surprisingly durable for ultralight carbon fiber poles (which, as a genre, aren't going to be as durable as aluminum poles). With other ultralight poles, like the Zpacks Minimalist Poles, we found the clamp wear would loosen over time and constantly need to be re-tightened with pliers or other tools we were unlikely to have in the field. 

The shaft condition is in great shape after our testing, showing minimal scratching. The rubber tips (which often fall off of poles) have extra traction and are staying on better than we've seen on many poles. 

Carbon poles are at risk to break with lateral stress, such as if you get a pole stuck between a root and a rock and twist it (we've seen it happen with other carbon fiber poles). Best to let go and then retrieve your pole, though that is easier to say than do at the moment.  

Ease of use

The Gossamer Gear FT3 trekking poles are the easiest to use lightweight poles we tested. A simple button springs the three segments into a durable shaft. A lever lock allows you to adjust the height further. This mechanism is similar to what we found in the Leki Makalu FX Carbon and Leki Cressida FX Carbon, but the FT3 are more than 5 oz lighter. For more tips, check out our How to Choose Trekking Poles guide.

Ease of storing

We tested many models of poles that fold down into three pieces, but the Gossamer Gear FT3 folded to one of the shortest lengths. This is convenient for fitting in a fastpack or running pack, which has less room for longer items. This will also work with ultralight packs for thru-hiking like the Pa'lante V2 pack, which has minimal room for fitting poles.

Marked for setting up ultralight shelters

We also like how the FT3 trekking pole has marks on it specifically to show you the length to set up trekking-pole supported ultralight shelters. On thru-hikes, it is easy to forget the exact height of the pole you need for set-up. Many hikers mark their poles with duct tape, which is sticky and messy. Gossamer realized hikers want that height and printed it right on the pole.

Features

Carry-on friendly 15" folded length

This is among the smallest folding trekking pole sizes we tested. Recent TSA regulations allow you to once again bring trekking poles as carry-on (previously, you had to check them). This is if you have "blunt tips" (the rubber tips that the poles come with may or may not qualify), and it is subject to your local TSA agent. But the 15" length is huge in making it easier to fit these poles in a carry-on. The LT5s, for comparison, only break down to 23.5", which makes them difficult to pull out of the pack without taking off the pack.  (We successfully got it through a flight from Sacramento to Denver!)

Carbon Fiber Shaft

For its weight, carbon fiber is considered the strongest material for ultralight trekking poles. The maximum diameter of this shaft is 16.3 mm, and it tapers to 12.7 mm in the middle and bottom sections. These are thinner than some other hiking poles but not as thin as some running poles. 

Cork Grip

The EVA-foam-molded faux-cork grip on Gossamer Gear poles is considered among the best in the industry. Although less angled and featured than a Leki cork trekking pole, these are extremely light and extremely comfortable.

Wrist strap

The minimalist but still comfortable nylon wrist strap is built in.

Carbide Tips

Underneath the rubber tips are strong carbide tips. We've found we usually get years of thru-hiking out of carbide tips on similar Gossamer Gear poles. They are sharp, so use the rubber tips if you are going to take them on a plane and hope to carry them on. TSA won't let sharp tips through. As always, the local TSA agent has final say on whether your trekking poles will be allowed on the plane. (We successfully got it through a flight from Sacramento to Denver!)

Rubber boots included

The FT3 poles come with rubber boots. The rubber bottoms can help protect rock from getting scratched, though. These scratches are pretty noticeable on red rock like in the Grand Canyon. Usually, these fall off new poles pretty quickly (for example, on another carbon fiber pole, these lasted us less than 25 miles), though we haven't lost our Gossamer Gear rubber boots yet. Each one weighs 9 g, so if you're looking to cut weight, remove them.

Locking mechanism

The Gossamer Gear FT3 uses a quick-deploy button to lock the length of the shaft. A smaller section lets you adjust the height with a lever lock that is secure.

Shelter icon

Clever marks along the poles’ shafts show how many cm in length you should arrange your poles to set up a certain shelter.

Carbon fiber breakage covered under warranty:

The warranty does not cover carbon fiber breakage.

Similar trekking poles

Gossamer Gear FT3 vs Gossamer Gear LT5

Grip material: Cork
Weight: 9.8 oz (pair)
Maximum length: 130 cm
Shaft construction: Carbon fiber
Locking mechanism: Twist-lock
Adjustable wrist strap: Yes
Packing method: Collapsible shaft

The LT5s have been my go-to trekking poles for years and are our pick for best ultralight trekking poles. They are the same brand and are also three-piece poles. However, they don't fold. The LT5 uses twist-lock mechanisms to adjust the height of each segment. The LT5 are more lightweight but the twist-locks take some getting used to and can feel less secure. The twist-locks also take more time.

Since they're also three-piece, you can put them away for scrambling sections of trail. However, since they don't fold, each segment is separated and it is possible to lose a segment (shout-out to Ken who found and mailed me my lost segment during my Arizona Trail thru-hike!).  

Choose the LT5s if you want the lightest poles possible, don't put a lot of weight on your poles, and are willing to put up with some slippage. Choose the FT3s if you are tired of the twist-lock slippage and are ok with a few extra ounces.

Gossamer Gear LT5 Trekking Poles

Gossamer Gear FT3 vs Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ

Grip material: EVA foam
Weight per pair: 10.7-12.8 ounces
Maximum length: 110-140 cm
Shaft construction: Carbon fiber
Locking mechanism: FlickLock Pro
Adjustable wrist strap: Yes
Packing method: Foldable z-design

The Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ are running poles that are most similar to the FT3s. They weigh less than half an ounce more (for the largest size) and are priced similarly. Their clamp is reliable, and their stow speed is comparable. They’re our pick for best folding trekking poles.

The big difference between the two is the grip and who they are designed for. The Gossamer Gear FT3, despite marketing that they are for trail runners, is really a great pole for thru-hiking. They are designed for thru-hikers who are out in the backcountry for a week or more without easy access to the tools to adjust poles. The Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ are designed for trail runners, who are putting in extreme miles and faster speeds, but usually people get back to their car at the end of the night and can access a tool kit. 

We found the foam grips and wrist straps on the Black Diamond poles comfortable on long days and even more so over weeks. The grips are firm, inflexible foam that grow slick with sweat and aren't the best in high humidity.

Black Diamond Distance Carbon FLZ

Gossamer Gear FT3 vs Zpacks Minimalist 

Shaft construction: Carbon fiber
Locking mechanism: Clasp lock
Grip material: EVA foam or cork handle
Weight per pair: 14.4 oz
Maximum length: Fixed length. Sizes go up to 137 cm (142 for tent pitch)
Adjustable wrist strap: Yes
Packing method: Folding 

The Zpacks Minimalist poles are similar to the LT5 trekking poles — they are both three-piece carbon fiber models. However, the Minimalist poles use clasp levers instead of twist-locks to secure each segment. It isn't folding, so it is possible to lose the segments. 

In our experience, the clasp locks are not very secure, similar to those on the Cascade Mountain Tech Carbon Fiber trekking poles we got at Costco. The Zpacks trekking poles are a great weight and an even greater price for poles of that weight. However, they aren't as secure as we'd like, and come with foam grips and an uncomfortable nylon webbing wrist strap.

Zpacks Minimalist Trekking Poles

Should I buy the Gossamer Gear FT3?

Buy if:

• You're an ultralight thru-hiker who uses a trekking pole tent and wants poles that are easier to use and more secure than the Gossamer Gear LT5s

• You want the lightest folding trekking poles available

• You want ultralight poles for the 14 reasons you can use trekking poles

• You are a fastpacker or runner who wants to stash your poles quickly, pull them out of your pack, and deploy quickly

Skip if:

• You put a lot of weight on your poles or carry a heavy load. In that case, go with an aluminum pole

• You want the most ultralight poles and are willing to put up with some inconvenience to save a few ounces—go with the Gossamer Gear LT5 instead

• You need race-day running poles–opt for something like the Leki Neotrail Pro FX.One Superlite that is even lighter and has a smaller diameter

Where to buy the Gossamer Gear FT3

The Gossamer Gear FT3 poles are popular gear items, so you have options when it comes to retailers. Here are some of the pros of the retailers.

Gossamer Gear

Sometimes, purchasing directly from Gossamer Gear can make it easier if you need to make a warranty return due to a defect.

Garage Grown Gear

Pros: Small ultralight cottage focused retailer

FAQs

• What is the difference between the Gossamer Gear FT3 and the LT5?

  The FT3s fold and use a quick-deploy button and lever lock to adjust. The LT5s use twist locks to adjust and are slower to fully extend. FT3s fold to 15" whereas the LTs fold to 23.5".

  While similar, the LT5s use a twist lock to adjust, and the FT3s use a quick-deploy button to lengthen and a lever lock to adjust. Both are three-piece, carbon fiber running poles made by Gossamer Gear. The FT3s are folding, so the pieces stay together for fast stowing and pulling out of a quiver while running or fastpacking. 

• Are the Gossamer Gear FT3 poles carry-on friendly?

  Yes, depending on your TSA agent. The newest TSA regulations state that poles can be carried on if they have blunt tips, not sharp tips. The FT3s come with rubber tips and fold to 15", an airline carry-on friendly dimension. However, the TSA agent may ask if the rubber tips are removable, so you could be forced to check them. 

• Can I pitch a Gossamer Gear tent with the FT3 poles?

  Yes, Gossamer Gear tents are almost all designed to be set up with trekking poles. The FT3s come with length markers etched on the side that show the length of pole you need for the height of your tent.

• Does Gossamer Gear cover carbon breakage under warranty?

  No, carbon fiber breakage is not covered under warranty for the FT3s.

Why you should trust us / About the author

To test the Gossamer Gear FT3 trekking poles, Liz Thomas spent 4 months testing these poles on hikes and backpacking trips up and down California and Oregon. She tested on everything from well-maintained PCT trail in Oregon to loose and abandoned steep burnt out trail to summits in Southern California. In addition to Liz testing, another tester used these poles on hikes in Redwood National Park, Big Sur, and the Central Coast of California. Lastly, Liz backpacked and hiked with these poles in the Eastern Sierra for a month, using them to set up a trekking pole shelter where she slept.

Liz is an award-winning Los Angeles-based writer and Editor-in-Chief of Treeline Review. A former Fastest Known Time (FKT) record holder on the Appalachian Trail, Liz came to Treeline Review from the New York Times/Wirecutter, the New York Times’ product review site, where she was a staff writer on the outdoor team.

Liz has talked gear on Good Morning America (TV), in The Wall Street Journal, The Guardian, Buzzfeed, Men’s Journal, Women’s Health, Gizmodo, and Outside Magazine.

You can read more about Liz at her Wikipedia page or on her website. See all her Treeline Review articles on her author page.

July 13th, 2026
Home > Gear Reviews > Backpacking

Our verdict

The Sea to Summit Ether Light XR Insulated Air sleeping pad is the newest iteration of plush, ultralight sleeping pads. For side sleepers, people who roll around, or backpackers who bottom out on their sleeping pad, inflatable pads can be uncomfortable. The Sea to Summit Ether Light XR solves that with their innovative Air Sprung cells, which operate like springs on a mattress back home. Each cell holds weight and diffuses it so it's always comfortable. It has the best pump sack in the inflatable sleeping pad industry. Plus, it's costs a little less than similar premium sleeping pads we've tested. 

The Sea to Summit Ether Light XR Insulated Air sleeping pad is one of the best sleeping pads for people who want one pad for backpacking and camping. With a thickness of almost 4", it's the most plush sleeping pad we considered for backpacking.  It's comfortable enough for car camping, easy to use, of quality construction, and insulated enough to work for folks who only want to own one inflatable pad for camping and backpacking.

Sea to Summit Ether Light XR Insulated Air Sleeping Pad

I tested this pad for over a month straight while backpacking and camping in the Eastern Sierra. I tested while sleeping in ultralight shelters and while camping in a big car camping tent. I tested this pad directly on a tent bathtub floor as well as on top of a camping cot and in a floorless tarp (with a minimalist groundsheet). We tested at temperatures just above freezing.

While there are other insulated sleeping pads that weigh less or have a higher R-rating for insulation in the cold, we still think this pad is worth it. The Ether Light XR Insulated is among the most comfortable pads we've tested, and comfort is essential for a good night’s rest and a better day’s hike.

Whether you're trying to limit gear spending or have limited space in an apartment, the Sea to Summit Ether Light XR is the rare gear item that spans car camping and backpacking without compromise. And if you've tried other inflatable sleeping pads and found them uncomfortable, hard on your lower back, or are bottoming out on your hips if you are a side sleeper, consider the Sea to Summit Ether Light.

We create reader-supported, objective gear reviews independently selected by our editors. This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission, without costing you an extra cent. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.

Sea to Summit Ether Light XR Insulated Air Sleeping Pad specifications

• Price: $199-$259 (depending on size, from short mummy to large rectangular)

• R-value: 4.1 (ASTM F3340 tested)

• Thickness: 10 cm / 3.94 in

• Best use: Tapered sizes: backpacking, thru-hiking, bikepacking; Rectangular sizes: comfort backpacking, hunting, camping

• Materials: Mat: 100% nylon; Valve: 100% TPU; Stuff sack: 100% nylon

• Insulation technology: ThermalCore (suspended TRM layer)

• Construction: nylon with Air Sprung Cell

• Valve: XPRESS valve (single, two-way inflate/deflate/fine-tune)

• Inflation: Airstream Pump sack integrated into the stuff sack

• PillowLock System: Yes (self-adhesive hook-and-loop patches included)

• Repair kit: Included

• Non-PFAS: Yes

• Flame retardant free: Yes

Best for

• Side sleepers who bottom out or experience back pain when sleeping on other inflatable sleeping pads could benefit from the Sea to Summit Air Sprung Cells

• Backpackers who aren't comfortable on other inflatable sleeping pads and still want 3-season insulation

• Backpackers and campers who want an additional 0.5-1" of distance between themselves and the ground

• Backpackers who want a lightweight, premium pad that is less expensive than other top-of-the-line pads

• Backpackers tired of huffing and puffing to inflate their pads and who want the best pump sack inflation system out there

• Bikepackers who want a compact and lightweight pad 

Comparison tables

Comparing sleeping pads 

Sizes of Sea to Summit Ether Light XR Insulated

What we liked

• Air Sprung Cell construction is extremely comfortable for backpacking and camping, especially for side sleepers and rollers

• Integrated Airstream Pump sack is very fast, attaches easily, and is the best in the industry

• Feels warm relative to the R-4.1 rating

• A great value and very affordable for what you get with this pad, offering pretty much the same specs as other premium sleeping pad brands

• Air Sprung Cell construction is generally quieter throughout the night than Therm-a-Rest's or even NEMO's reflective foil designs

• XPRESS valve makes it easy to fine-tune firmness after getting into your backpacking sleeping bag or quilt.

What could be better

• The 16.6 oz weight is 2 to 3 ounces heavier than lightweight sleeping pads with similar R-value

• Nylon shell material can be slippery when used on a camping cot

• Pump sack cannot be used as a separate stuff sack

How we tested

Two testers slept on this sleeping pad for over a month straight while backpacking and camping in the Eastern Sierra. Weather conditions outside when camping were between just above freezing at night and up to 90F in the peak of the day. We slept in dispersed campsites, rough-road areas, and on dirt in ultralight shelters against a bathtub floor and while camping in a big car-camping tent on a cot. Even though we know you aren’t “supposed to” use an inflatable sleeping pad in a camping hammock, we even spent a night in this pad suspended in the trees.

The other tester was new to camping, and this pad was a comfortable introduction to sleeping outside.

I tested the mummy (tapered) 6-foot length relative to my 5'8". I found the length to work great with my 6' sleeping bag. We tested in temperatures just above freezing. While camping, the 15°F Exped Terra sleeping bag worked well in these temperatures. While backpacking, I also tested this pad in the Gossamer Gear Whisper, a floorless ultralight tarp with a minimalist groundsheet. In those situations, I tested with a 20°F Feathered Friends Egret sleeping bag.

Most nights, I toss and turn and roll. I often sleep on my side, sometimes on my back, and sometimes on my stomach. Having a sleeping pad that stays stable, comfortable, and doesn't bottom out in all these positions makes a big difference in how I feel the next morning. 

Performance in the field

Warmth and insulation accuracy

We tested in the summer at altitude in the Eastern Sierra with temperatures down to just above freezing. The Sea to Summit Ether Light XR Insulated Air has an R-value of 4.1 (see our Best Sleeping Pads guide for how R-value measures insulation). Using the Exped Terra 15F degree sleeping bag, I was warm and comfortable, if not too warm.

Another tester, who is a beginning camper, also tested using a 15°F synthetic sleeping bag by Marmot and found it warm, even on chillier nights. While backpacking, I tested this sleeping pad with a 20°F Feathered Friends bag. In each instance, I didn't notice cold spots or inconsistent insulation across the pad. It also doesn't have the crinkly reflective foil sound of other pads and is quieter. The suspended TRM (thermal reflective) layer helps keep a similar warmth distribution with less noise. 

Comfort and sleep position

Most inflatable pads have some form of surface texturing to capture heat. Unfortunately, those long, straight seams can be uncomfortable for side sleepers especially. By contrast, the smaller dimples on the Ether Light XR accomplish the insulating effect without causing you to slide into seams or crater out when sleeping on your hip. 

This design especially helped with side sleeping, as the dimples more comfortably nestled the hips compared to a long seam on other lightweight pads. With a 3.94-inch thickness (the brand says 4” and REI states 3.9” so we rounded down, using our measurements), the Air Sprung Cell construction felt very comfortable while side sleeping, back sleeping, and stomach sleeping. There was no bottoming out, and there was support at pressure points. 

Inflation and deflation

The pump sack is one of our favorite parts of the Sea to Summit Ether Light XR. Compared to other pump sacks, this one is a dream. The pump is connected to the sleeping bag’s pad so you won’t lose it and it is always where you need it. The pump sack is small, has directions printed right on it, and takes just a few pumps to inflate. Inflating this pad takes less than 30 seconds, whereas even using a pump sack on other pads, I often start, give up, do another chore, and come back when I'm less frustrated.

I could rant to you for hours about how other pump sacks can't be used as a stuff sack, making them a single use product. I could rant about how other pump sacks don't really connect well to their pad's valve. I could rant about how other pump sacks take dozens of fills to inflate their pads. The Sea to Summit Ether Light XR pump sack is the ideal that every pump sack wishes it could attain.

As far as deflation goes, the two-way XPRESS valve works well for fine-tuning the firmness of your pad. The best part is you can do this while you're on the sleeping pad without pushing out too much air. It's similar to the valve on Exped pads and NEMO pads, though the Expeds have two valves (one for inflating and one for deflating). Deflation in the morning with the Sea to Summit takes under 10 seconds and happens quite suddenly compared to other pads. It’s a little startling if you were hoping for a lazy morning getting out of your sleeping bag.

Noise

Another huge differentiator on the Sea to Summit Ether Light XR Insulated Air sleeping pad and pads by Therm-a-Rest or NEMO is the sound. The Ether Light is not loud at all when you move around at night. It doesn't disturb light sleepers. Even when my pad was rolling around a lot because I was camped on a not-flat-at-all spot, the sound didn't bother other campers.

Packability and weight in practice

The Sea to Summit Ether Light XR sleeping pad packs into its own pump sack (genius) and is 8x4x4" in dimensions. There is a weight penalty and a volume penalty compared to lighter sleeping pads due to the Air Sprung cells. However, given the comfort, we think that the weight penalty really isn't that noticeable. 

Durability

We haven't had any issues after a month of sleeping on the Sea to Summit Ether Light XR nearly every night except town day. The nylon shell and weld construction is holding up. However, with the Sprung Cells, that means there are additional seams compared to other sleeping pads. On earlier iterations of the Sea to Summit Ether Light XT, that is where we have developed a hole. Luckily, Sea to Summit provides specialized small, circular sticky repair patches that fit perfectly in those holes. The Sea to Summit Ether Light XR is a noticeable update compared to the earlier model and one of the features they sought to improve was durability. So far, so good!

Features

• Air Sprung Cell construction, 10 cm / 3.94 in thick: among the thickest of the lightweight insulated sleeping pads we have tested

• ThermalCore insulation—suspended TRM layer reduces internal air movement so that warmth stays consistent across the pad

• R-value 4.1 (ASTM F3340 independent lab tested): suitable for 3-season use

• XPRESS valve: a two-way valve with integrated inflate port, rapid dump deflate port, and fine-tune button you can use to adjust firmness even when you're already lying on the pad

• Airstream pump sack integrated into stuff sack: inflates in 3–4 pump cycles, is incredibly quick, has instructions printed right on the pad so you know how to use it and don't accidentally try to activate it inside out or backwards

• PillowLock System patches included: locks in  a Sea to Summit Aeros pillow so it won't slip during the night

• Increased weld strength vs. prior models: in our testing, very noticeable

• Lighter weight and reduced packed size vs. prior models: 2-4 ounces lighter than earlier models and much more compact

• 100% nylon shell and stuff sack

• 100% TPU valve

• Non-PFAS

• Flame retardant free

• Repair kit included

• Available in 5 sizes: Small, Regular, Regular Rectangular Wide, Large, Large Rectangular

What's new

The Ether Light XR Insulated replaces the Ether Light XT Insulated, which Treeline has reviewed extensively. Key changes from the XT to the XR include:

• In real world testing, it is noticeably warmer, noticeably lighter weight and has a smaller packed volume. If you love the XT and aren't bothered by the weight or size, you probably don't need to upgrade. They are similarly comfortable.

• ThermalCore insulation upgrade: The XR uses smaller die cuts in the TRM layers compared to the XT. This reduces internal air movement further. It also bumps up the R-value from 3.2 to 4.1. The current R-value is more in line with what we like to see for a 3-season pad, whereas the old version is better for 2-season backpacking.

• Increased weld strength: Sea to Summit has strengthened the pad welds in the XR for improved durability. We've had issues in the past with the XT, and that isn't the case with the XR. If you've sprung one too many holes in your XT but still love it, check out the XR. It's way stronger.

• Lighter and more packable: The XR is lighter and packs smaller than the XT for the same size.

• R-value change: The XT Insulated Air was rated at R-3.2 and the XR Insulated is R-4.1.

Similar products

Sea to Summit Ether Light XR Insulated vs Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT

Weight: 11.5 to 17.0 ounces
R-Value: 4.5
Thickness: 3.0”
Lengths: 66, 72, 77”
Packed Size: 4.1 x 9”

The NeoAir XLite NXT is one of our long-time favorite pads. At 14 oz, it is lighter than the Ether Light XR. It has horizontal baffles lined with reflective film to yield a higher insulation rating of 4.5. However, compared to the Air Sprung cells in the Sea to Summit, it can be noisier. The 3.9" of Air Sprung cells are also more comfortable for side sleepers and people who bottom out on sleeping pads. The packed size and weight of the NeoAir NXT are less than those of the Sea to Summit Ether Light XR. However, the NeoAir NXT is about $10 more expensive for the same length and width pad. Another big difference is the valve. The NeoAir NXT uses a Winglock valve, while the Sea to Summit Ether Light uses a two-way XPRESS valve on the pad surface.

Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XLite NXT

Sea to Summit Ether Light XR Insulated vs NEMO Tensor All-Season Ultralight Insulated

Weight: 14.1 to 18.0 ounces
R-Value: 5.4
Thickness: 3.5”
Lengths: 72, 76”
Packed Size: 4 x 10”

The NEMO Tensor All-Season Ultralight Insulated is our overall winner for Best Backpacking Sleeping Pad. It uses reflective film similar to the NeoAir XLite but in a square pattern reminiscent of the Air Sprung cells on the Sea to Summit Ether Light XR. The NEMO pattern helps diffuse weight across the pad in a similar way as the Sea to Summit Ether Light XR, without the need for the circular repair pads should a hole happen. The Sea to Summit Ether Light two-way XPRESS valve on the surface of the pad is pretty similar to the Laylow Micro-Adjustable valve on the NEMO Tensor. The NEMO Tensor Insulated is about 2 oz lighter than the Sea to Summit XR. However, it costs $20 more than the Sea to Summit XR (regular size). For more, read our in-depth review of the NEMO Tensor All-Season Ultralight.

NEMO Tensor All-Season Ultralight Insulated

Sea to Summit Ether Light XR Insulated vs Exped Ultra 6.5

Weight: 12.5 - 16.0 ounces
R-Value: 6.9
Thickness: 3.5”
Lengths: 72, 78”
Packed Size: 4.1 x 8.3”

The Exped Ultra sleeping pad is a similarly priced, high-quality sleeping pad to the Sea to Summit Ether Light XR Insulated Air. It has a higher R-value of 6.5 but doesn't have the Air Sprung Cells of the Sea to Summit Ether Light XR.

It uses vertical baffles rather than the horizontal ones found on the NeoAir XLite. The Ultra has two valves, one for filling and one for deflating. Both are found directly on the surface of the pad.

See our in-depth review of the Exped Ultra 6.5 sleeping pad for more info.

Exped Ultra 6.5R

Should I buy the Sea to Summit Ether Light XR Insulated?

Buy if:

• You are a side sleeper who finds baffled pads uncomfortable and want the Air Sprung Cell construction's independent cell support

• You want the fastest possible inflation system—the integrated Airstream pump sack inflates the pad in 3–4 cycles with one breath

• You prioritize a quiet sleeping pad and are sensitive to the crinkling noise of reflective foil designs

• You are upgrading from the Ether Light XT and want improved warmth, lower weight, and better packability in the same design

• You want a more affordable, premium 3-season insulated pad

Skip if:

• You are a strictly weight-obsessed ultralight backpacker—at 16.6 oz for the regular size, lighter options exist at a similar R-value

• You camp in genuinely cold conditions (below 20°F) and need a higher R-value — consider the Ether Light XR Pro, NeoAir XTherm NXT, or NEMO Tensor Extreme instead

• You want a wider pad for more comfortable sleep—the tapered regular is 22 inches wide at the shoulder, narrower than rectangular options; size up to the Rectangular Wide if width matters to you

Where to buy

The Sea to Summit Ether Light XR Insulated Air Sleeping Pads are popular gear items, so you have options for retailers. Here are some of the pros of the retailers.

REI

Pros: 100% satisfaction policy for 1 year; 10% dividend for members.

Backcountry

Pros: Frequent sales for Expedition Perks members (free to join), fast shipping, Gearhead chat customer service is excellent

Garage Grown Gear

Pros: Small ultralight cottage focused retailer

Sea to Summit 

You can sometimes find more options when purchasing directly from Sea to Summit. It can make it easier if you need to make a warranty return due to a defect.

FAQs

• What is the difference between the Sea to Summit Ether Light XR and the Ether Light XT?

  The XR is the updated successor to the XT Insulated. Key improvements include a refined ThermalCore insulation system with smaller TRM die cuts for better warmth and less internal air movement, increased weld strength for durability, and reduced weight and packed volume. The R-value of the XR Insulated Air (4.1) is slightly higher than the 3.2 on the XT Insulated Air. 

• Can I inflate the Ether Light XR by mouth without the pump sack?

  Yes, the pad can be mouth-inflated, but it takes 20 or more breaths, depending on lung capacity, compared to three or four pump cycles with the integrated Airstream pump sack. Repeatedly inflating by mouth can also introduce moisture condensation into the pad. Sea to Summit (like all pad manufacturers) recommends drying the pad before long-term storage if you do this.

• What is the coldest temperature the Ether Light XR Insulated is suitable for?

  The R-4.1 rating is generally considered suitable for conditions where a hard frost might occur. Sea to Summit notes that temperature ratings for sleeping pads are estimates based on air temperature and ground temperature. For truly cold conditions (snow camping, alpine use below 20°F), consider a higher R-value pad. 

• Does the Ether Light XR work with Sea to Summit pillows?

  Yes. The included PillowLock patches attach to the pad and are compatible with all Sea to Summit Aeros pillows. The patches use a hook-and-loop system that will not snag sleeping bags or lightweight fabrics. Existing Sea to Summit pillows can be made compatible by adding an Aeros Pillow Case.

Why you should trust us / About the author

I’ve backpacked over 20,000 miles and have at least 1,000 nights sleeping outdoors. On most of these overnight trips, I’ve slept on inflatable sleeping pads. I tested the Sea to Summit Ether Light XR Insulated Air sleeping pad for nearly 30 nights of backcountry sleeping, both in a camping tent and ultralight backpacking tent.

I’ve written about outdoor gear for numerous publications, including as contributing editor at Backpacker Magazine and the New York Times’ product review site, Wirecutter. I’m the author of the National Outdoor Book Award winning Long Trails Mastering the Art of the Thru-hike. 

I regularly book speaking gigs with outdoor clubs, non-profits, and colleges and universities to talk about backpacking and lead gear panels. I’m also Editor-in-Chief here at Treeline Review and oversee all of our outdoor gear stories.

You can read more about me at www.eathomas.com or at my author page.

July 11th, 2026
Home → Gear Reviews → Dog Gear

Our verdict

The Tractive Dog 6 is a daily-wear dog GPS collar that tracks your pet based on GPS and cellular service. We’ve found that it’s generally more reliable than most other similar cellular-based GPS dog collars on the market, since it uses LTE Cat-M1 tech with 2G as a backup, and is able to connect to the three major cellular networks in the United States: AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon. Most other cellular GPS collars only leverage one network. 

It also features fast boundary alerts, live tracking, quick connection times, a fairly long battery life (almost double what’s advertised), and a user-friendly app that allows you to view your dog’s location history and health status updates. It’s easy to put on and take off of your dog’s existing collar—no new collar necessary. And, it’s also waterproof for pups who love to swim.

Tractive Dog 6

We tested the Tractive Dog 6 over months of daily park walks, local hikes on Colorado's Front Range, trail runs, and drives to and from dog sport events to put the location tracking of this device through its paces. This GPS dog collar is best suited for pet parents who want a collar for daily wear. It’s great at pinpointing your dog’s location and giving you super fast alerts when your dog leaves the virtual boundaries set in the app. 

This collar gives you location updates on your dog as frequent as every 2–3 seconds in live tracking mode, and about every 2–60 minutes, in normal mode depending on your dog’s activity level. You can also track your dog’s activity levels and walk distance if you start a walk in the app.

Our biggest qualm with the Tractive is that it doesn’t automatically track walks, and it doesn’t differentiate between walks and drives the way the Fi collar does. Each walk needs to be manually started and stopped in the app for accurate tracking. The Fi, in comparison, starts walks automatically if you, your dog, and your phone all leave the safe zone together.

If you want the most reliable cellular GPS tracking for your pet, are willing to start walks and manage activity tracking more manually, and are usually within range of at least minimal cell service, the Tractive is a great GPS dog collar.

The previous model won our Reader’s Favorite Gear of the Year Award in 2025.

Learn more about our top picks and what to consider in our Best GPS Dog Collars guide. 

This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission without costing you an extra cent. This allows us to create reader-supported objective gear reviews. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.

Tractive Dog 6 specifications

• Price: $79 (device only)

• Subscription plans: 

• $120 billed annually

• $168 billed every 2 years

• $300 billed every 5 years

• Tracking speeds: Up to every 2-3 seconds during live tracking, dynamic updates every 2-60 minutes in normal mode based on your dog’s activity

• Battery life: Up to 14 days, but lasted 25 days during testing with daily use

• Water resistant: Yes, IP68

• Weight: 1.4 ounces

• Cellular networks used: AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile

Best for

• People who are constantly out with their dogs on walks, local hikes, and drives

• Those who typically stay within range of at least minimal cell service (any carrier)

• Folks who want to keep a GPS collar on their dog most of the time

• Folks who hike or walk their dogs off-leash who want an extra layer of safety

• Folks who hike or walk flight-risk dogs on a leash who want an extra layer of safety

• Those who are interested in keeping track of their dog’s activity levels

• Those who want fast alerts if their dog leaves set boundary lines

• Those who want a GPS device that can be attached to their dog’s existing collar

Comparison table

What we liked

• Fast connection times

• Has service in most locations unless you’re deep in the backcountry

• Uses three cellular carriers for more robust coverage

• Fast live tracking

• Battery life lasted almost double what was advertised (depends on use)

• Easy to attach and detach to existing dog collars

• Feature-rich app with health and activity tracking

What could be better

• Doesn’t automatically track walks when you leave a virtual boundary

• Doesn’t differentiate between walks and drives on the location history map and timeline

• A bit bulky for very small breeds

How we tested

We tested the Tractive Dog 6 over months of dog walks, drives, camping trips, hikes, and other outdoor adventures with two dogs in the Front Range of Colorado. Our adventures ranged from local park walks in urban areas of Boulder, trail runs in the foothills, hikes along the Front Range, and more.

We tested this GPS dog collar on two different off-leash dogs with varying hiking styles over the months. One dog prefers to be independent on hikes, getting ahead of the pack and doing more mileage as she walks back and forth on the trail. The other tester dog prefers to stay close to her people. We compared the battery range based on the two different activity levels, and also tested this collar at the same time as the Fi Series 3+ and the Garmin Alpha T 20 to cross-reference location data. 

While testing on the trails, we encountered different cell service reliability that affected how accurate the tracking on this device was, and how quickly the connection and loading times were. We found that unless we were truly in the backcountry off of 4WD trails or in areas with dense tree coverage, the Tractive nearly always had some level of connection.

Performance in the field

Location accuracy and speed

Of the LTE-based GPS trackers we’ve tested, the Tractive had the fastest connection time and most accurate location data. Even when phone service was low or non-existent during a hike or walk, once the tracker was back in service, it showed accurate location data.

Connecting to the tracker was always quick and easy, and I was always able to turn on live tracking within a few seconds of opening the app when I was within service. When service was low, the live tracking would still turn on, but it took longer and wasn’t able to refresh as quickly as the advertised 2-3 seconds. 

The live tracking feature is quite accurate, and it showed my dog’s location within a few yards each time I used it. This tracker would absolutely help find your dog if they were genuinely lost. 

Service

During testing, the Tractive had service around 85% of the time. When there was cell service (on local lake walks, park outings, and frontcountry hikes), the app loaded quickly and seamlessly, and was able to toggle to live tracking mode in a few seconds. The tracking didn’t work or worked with delays in backcountry settings and areas with very dense tree coverage and no cell service. Generally, if you can get a few bars of cell service, you can connect to the Tractive. 

When the service was poor, it took a while to connect to live tracking. However, once service resumed, the device was able to log all the positions it tracked while it lacked service. 

If you regularly do big mountain hikes, go backpacking with your dog or overlanding in the desert, or spend lots of time with your dog in areas without any cell service, a satellite dog GPS collar like the Garmin Alpha T 20 will be better suited to your needs.

App usability

The app is very easy to navigate. The home screen shows the map location of where your dog currently is, and allows you to begin a walk, live tracking, or radar, all from the first screen. From there, you can navigate to the location history map/timeline, the health tracking page, and more.

We wish that the location history map differentiated between walks and hikes and that it was easier to view your dog’s actual activity on the history map, and not just their general location. As an example, the Fi collar differentiates between walks and drives on their app.

Battery life

Though Tractive advertises up to 14 days of battery life, during some of our testing, this tracker lasted up to 25 days with daily usage. The battery life really depends on your dog’s activity level and how far they stray from WiFi, as more active dogs who range farther will drain the battery faster. 

For reference, my dogs walk between 2 and 5 miles per day, but the rest of the time they’re either at home with their collars off or training indoors (connected to WiFi) with their collars on. Since I take my dogs’ collars off in the house, there’s no battery drain when we’re not on walks, so the batteries last quite a long time even though we do a fair bit of mileage per day. 

If you have a large property, and your dog spends a lot of time out of WiFi range, or if you leave your dog’s collar on 100% of the time, your battery will drain faster. 

Note that live tracking features will also drain the battery down faster than using the normal variable update speed setting, which updates your dog’s location every 2–60 minutes, depending on your dog’s activity.

Tractive Dog 6 Features

Companion App

The Tractive App is intuitive and easy to use. It shows a map image of where your dog is currently, your tracker’s battery life percentage, and lets you quickly toggle live tracking, start a walk, or turn on radar controls. Radar shows you how close you are to your dog by displaying rings on-screen that fill as you get closer. 

It also has menu options to view your dog’s location and activity history, health alerts, their profile, and your account settings.

USB-C Charging

The Tractive charges via a USB-C cord and fully charges in about 3 hours from 0% battery. The charging port features a silicone cover, so the tracker is still fully waterproof.

Virtual boundaries

Tractive allows you to set virtual boundaries in the app. You’ll be instantly notified (on your phone) if your dog crosses these boundaries. You can set safe zones (like your home or yard) where your dog is allowed to roam freely, and no-go zones where your pet shouldn’t be.

Unlike electronic fences, Tractive does not correct your pet for entering or exiting any designated zones. They’re meant entirely as notifications and information to help you monitor your dog. Treeline Review does not recommend electronic fences or any dog tool that utilizes corrections.

Variable speed settings + live tracking

The Tractive Dog 6 defaults to a dynamic tracking setting, which updates your dog’s location data in the app every 2-60 minutes, depending on your dog's activity. Dogs who are outside of their virtual boundaries and are more active will get more frequent location updates, while dogs who remain in their safe zones will get less frequent updates, in order to save battery life for when they’re outside of the boundaries.

Health tracking features

Tractive’s app includes health-tracking features such as activity tracking, sleep monitoring, resting heart rate, resting respiratory rate, bark monitoring, separation anxiety monitoring, and scratch monitoring.

Note that the health and sleep tracking features usually only work if your dog wears their collar 100% of the time, which isn’t recommended. Collar use 100% of the time can damage your dog’s coat and can be a strangulation hazard. If your dog must wear a collar 100% of the time, a breakaway safety collar is recommended. 

Collar compatibility

The Tractive Dog 6 features a handy silicone collar connector that can be attached to basically any type of collar. It’s highly secure and didn’t become loose or fall off of our tester dogs’ collars during testing. 

Understanding GPS dog collar features

LTE is cellular service, just like how smartphones are able to connect to the internet when away from WiFi. GPS dog collars that rely on LTE service connect to one or more of the three major cell networks (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile) and usually require a separate monthly subscription fee to use the service. The fees are paid to the collar brand directly, regardless of which cellular service they use. LTE dog collars rely on cell towers for signal, so they’ll only work if you’re within range of the collar’s carrier’s towers. Collars that use multiple or all three cellular networks are more likely to offer better service coverage than those that use only one.

Satellite GPS dog collars connect to satellites in space to track your dog’s location. These kinds of GPS dog collars are more reliable in backcountry or very remote areas where there’s little to no cell service. They’re a larger upfront financial investment than LTE collars, but they don’t require monthly subscription fees the way LTE collars do. Satellite dog GPS collars often require the purchase of a separate handheld device, and connect to the handheld via a radio connection.

Radio connections are connections between a GPS dog collar and a handheld device held by the handler. Radio connections aren’t always the most reliable in rough, rocky terrain, in areas with dense tree cover, or at long distances. Radio connections typically connect the collar to the handheld, while satellite GPS data is used to pinpoint your dog’s location. Satellite collars often also use radio connections.

Similar GPS dog collars

Tractive Dog 6 vs. Garmin Alpha LTE

Price: $300
Subscription plan: Required, $4.99 per month
Tracking speeds: Location updates every 10 seconds, 2 minutes, or dynamic setting that varies based on dog activity
Battery life: Between 11–75 hours depending on use and if it’s connected to another Garmin satellite GPS collar; around 12 hours of battery life for 10-second tracking rate, 18 hours for the dynamic rate, and up to 45 hours for the two-minute tracking rate; battery life extends to up to 75 hours when paired with a Garmin satellite GPS collar
Water resistant: 1 ATM
Weight: 50.8 grams / 1.79 oz
Cellular networks used: AT&T and T-Mobile

The Garmin Alpha LTE is a cell-service-based collar that’s slightly less reliable than the Tractive but more reliable than other options we tested. It utilizes two cellular networks and gives you location tracking via an app on your phone. It’s more rugged and durable than some other GPS dog collars, and it updates as often as every 10 seconds, making it a good choice for hunting dogs or dogs who like to run big. It also has a few drawbacks.

Namely, the app experience isn’t nearly as user-friendly as some of the other options we’ve tested. It doesn’t have advanced activity or health tracking, has a relatively short battery life due to its fast live-tracking capabilities, and isn’t compatible with every collar.

The Alpha LTE is best-suited for dog owners who are married to the Garmin ecosystem, don’t want advanced health or activity monitoring, and prioritize fast, accurate location data for their dog. 

Read more about this dog GPS tracker in our Garmin Alpha LTE review.

Garmin Alpha LTE

Tractive Dog 6 vs. Garmin Alpha T 20 Dog Tracking Collar

Price: $300 for collar, $400+ for handheld depending on model
Subscription plan: N/A
Tracking speeds: Dynamic tracking, 30-second location refresh when the dog is not moving, and a 2.5-second location refresh when the dog is in motion
Battery life: Up to 68 hours with standard battery pack
Water resistant: Yes, 1ATM (1 atmosphere of pressure at sea level, or roughly up to 10m of water)
Weight: 8.4 ounces with transmitter, antenna, and collar
Cellular networks used: None, satellite and radio connections

If you spend a lot of time in the backcountry where cell or LTE service is rare, the Garmin Alpha T 20 is one of the few options on the market that works without service. This collar connects to a Garmin Alpha 10 handheld (sold separately) that uses a combination of satellite and radio connections to give you a read on your dog’s location. 

We tested the Alpha T 20 with the Alpha 10 handheld, which is Garmin’s cheapest handheld option at $400. This is the main downside of this collar: though it doesn’t have a monthly subscription fee, the upfront cost is significantly higher than that of other GPS dog collar options.

This collar was designed with hunting dogs in mind, and features tracking alerts for treeing and pointing if you actually use it for hunting. Even if you don’t use it for hunting, it lets you see your dog’s location up to 9 miles away. This makes it a good choice for breeds that like to run hard, fast, and far, like Pointers and Spaniels.

The Alpha T 20 can also be paired with the Garmin LTE for extended reliability and coverage. Most hikers, backpackers, and overlanders likely won’t need the additional coverage and reliability, but hunting dog owners might. 

Read more about the Garmin Alpha T 20 in our Best GPS Dog Collars guide.

Garmin Alpha T 20 Dog Tracking Collar

Tractive Dog 6 vs. Fi Series 3+

Device cost: Free with subscription
Subscription plan: 
Six months: $99 semi-annually
One year: $189 annually
Two years: $339 biennially
Monthly: $19/month
Tracking speeds: Updates around every 5 minutes by default, but updates every few seconds in live tracking mode (official timing not listed, but a 2025 update made big improvements to update times)
Battery life: Up to three months, but lasted about 10 weeks in testing
Water resistant: Yes, IP68
Weight: 1.3 ounces without the collar
Cellular networks used: AT&T

The Fi Series 3+ was neck and neck with the Tractive in our best dog GPS collar testing. The Fi app is basically Facebook + Instagram for dogs, showing all the local dogs’ stats and letting you compare your dog’s activity. More than just a GPS tracker, the Fi is comparable to a Fitbit or Apple Watch for your dog.

The companion app has a ton of health and activity tracking features (more than any other GPS collar we’ve tested), including sleep tracking, strain rates, step tracking, behavior tracking, and more. 

The best part about the Fi collar is that it begins walks and other activities automatically, meaning you don’t have to go into the app to begin a walk or run with your dog. The app also does an amazing job of differentiating between walks/runs and drives, and shows you when your dog was in the car (including start and end points) versus when they were walking. 

Fi Series 3+

The Fi collar is lightweight and isn’t too bulky for smaller dogs, but it requires you to either use the collar that comes with it or buy a compatible collar or adapter. It also comes in a smaller size (Fi Mini) for small breeds or cats. Read more about the Fi Mini in our guide to the best GPS Dog Collars. 

The Fi collar has slightly slower connection speeds than the Garmin LTE or the Tractive, and only utilizes AT&T’s LTE-M cellular network, as opposed to Tractive’s 3 cellular network usage. The location data on the Fi was also slightly less accurate than that of the Garmin LTE and Tractive devices, though not in a way that would affect your dog's safety if it were lost within cell range.

If you want to be highly involved in your dog’s activity and want automatic tracking, this is a good choice. Read more about the Fi Series 3+ in our guide to the best GPS Dog Collars. 

Should I buy the Tractive Dog 6 GPS collar?

Buy if:

• You want an everyday wear GPS collar

• You mostly walk and hike in areas with at least some cell service (any carrier)

• You want a GPS device to attach to your dog’s existing collar

• You’re looking for fast boundary alerts, quick connection speeds, and accurate location tracking

Skip if:

• You want walks to be started and tracked automatically

• You want walking locations and driving locations to be separated in your dog’s location history

• You have a toy-sized dog who needs a lightweight tracker

Where to buy

The Tractive Dog 6 GPS Dog Collar is a popular gear item, so you have options when it comes to retailers. Here are some of the pros of the retailers.

Amazon

Pros: Free 2-day shipping with Amazon Prime membership

Chewy

Pros: Quick shipping, pet-centric focus

Tractive

Pros: Easy customer service and returns

Why you should trust us / About the author

Jae Thomas has written and edited numerous pet and lifestyle product reviews for sites like CNN Underscored, Whole Dog Journal, and more. She was formerly the shopping editor at Mashable, covering tech and lifestyle products before leaving to pursue her incredibly niche passion of dog product testing. She has a journalism degree from NYU, and has been involved in commerce writing since graduating in 2020. 

Jae is also a dog trainer, dog show exhibitor, dog sport competitor, and has worked as kennel help and as a dog show assistant in the past. She teaches both behavioral lessons and sport classes, and competes in AKC conformation, rally, agility, barn hunt, and herding with her two dogs. 

Jae is an avid hiker, overlander, and camper, and where she goes, her dogs go. From boondocking in Moab to enjoying the extensive trail system in Boulder where they live, Jae’s two dogs are always with her, and they’re usually off leash. Though they’re both well-trained, being off leash inherently poses some risks, and Jae has used GPS trackers on both dogs for years now on all their travels, just in case one of them ever gets lost. 

Find more of Jae Thomas’ reviews and guides here.

July 10th, 2026
Home > Gear Reviews > Hiking

Our verdict

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Pemi 15 is the ideal fastpack or running pack for running or hiking when you need to carry more gear than a running vest allows, but you still want the comfort and bounce-free fit of a vest. It has running vest straps and tons of pockets to keep essentials within reach, as well as a roll-top main compartment made of ALUULA waterproof fabric. 

I tested the HMG Pemi 15 while trail running, scrambling, and hiking across Utah, Arizona, and Colorado. I wore it for a 25-mile off-trail segment of the Hayduke Trail across Arches National Park, where I carried 4.5 liters of water plus food for 12 hours, a puffy jacket, a windbreaker, and a first-aid/emergency kit. I’ve also used it for other long days hiking and running in canyons around Moab, Utah, Southern Arizona, and in the mountains of Colorado. 

The Pemi excels at carrying more gear than a running vest while still feeling like one as you move. It doesn’t bounce much, even when it is stuffed full of gear. It also has tons of pockets that make it easy to access any item—the most notable is a vertical zippered pocket that lets you reach the main compartment without undoing the roll-top closure. It also has an actually useful water bladder sleeve on the outside of the pack, so you can remove and reinsert a bladder without unpacking everything in the main compartment. 

This is also the only running backpack we’ve seen made with the very durable and waterproof ALUULA fabric. While the Pemi 15 doesn’t have taped seams and isn’t fully waterproof, we’d trust it to keep our gear mostly dry in all but the heaviest deluge. 

The biggest downside of this pack is that it’s quite expensive. The Pemi costs at least $50 more than most of the other high-capacity running vests we tested for our running backpacks guide, and $85 more than our overall winner from that guide. 

But if you’re looking for the most water-resistant running backpack for your next mountain mission and don’t mind paying a little extra, the HMG Pemi is a great option.

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Pemi 15

We create reader-supported, objective gear reviews independently selected by our editors. This story may contain affiliate links, which help fund our website. When you click on the links to purchase gear, we may get a commission, without costing you an extra cent. Thank you for supporting our work and mission of outdoor coverage for every body! Learn more.

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Pemi 15 Running Vest Specifications

• Price: $250

• Volume: 15L

• Weight: 12.1-12.8 oz

• Strap type: Running vest straps with two elastic shock cord sternum straps 

• Back panel: Foam

• Hip belt: None

• Closure: Roll-top with side access zipper

• Water carry: Two soft flask pockets (up to 500mL flask), hydration sleeve

• Shoulder strap pockets: Four pockets per strap

• Exterior pockets: 9 (4 strap pockets per strap plus 1 external stretch mesh pocket)

• Bottom pocket: No

• Waterproof: Water-resistant (waterproof materials without taped seams)

• Main body material: ALUULA 97

• Pocket mesh material: Lycra stretch mesh shoulder strap pockets, UHMWPE stretch mesh rear pocket 

• Chest width sizing: Small/34"-38", Medium/38"-40", Large/40"-42", X-Large/42"-44"

• Variants available: None

• Made in: Mexico

Best for

• Overnight fastpacking under 15 pounds

• Peakbagging and mountain running 

• Desert running and hiking with longer water carries

• Mountain biking and bikepacking

• Off-trail alpine running and hiking

Comparison table

What we liked

• Great pocket design that makes all your gear easy to access without stopping

• Carries heavy water loads plus gear well

• Durable external mesh pocket

• Shoulder straps are comfortable after 10 hours on trail

• Feels stable when running and scrambling

What could be better

• Made with waterproof materials, but the seams aren’t taped

• Sizing runs small

• Expensive

How we tested

I tested the Pemi 15 running vest for several months during the spring and summer in Arizona, Utah, and Colorado. I wore it while running, fast hiking, and on adventures that were a mix of running, hiking, and scrambling. 

I used it for desert runs where I needed to carry 4+ liters of water plus food for an entire day. I also used it for mountain running and peakbagging, where I carried warm clothing, food, water, and an emergency kit. I also used it for off-trail hikes in canyons, where I needed to carry a lot of water and a pack durable enough to withstand abrasion from rocks and brush. 

I am 5’9”, 165 pounds, with a 37-inch chest. I tested a size medium Pemi, which fits chests between 38 and 40 inches, according to Hyperlite’s sizing. I think this pack runs slightly small, because the medium fits me fine, and I often opt for a size small. When the back is nearly empty, I still don’t cinch the shock cord chest straps all the way, and when I have it stuffed full of gear, I almost wish I could loosen the chest cinch more.  

We also tested the Pemi 15 alongside other running vests and fastpacks to directly compare features, performance, fit, best uses, and more.

So far, I’ve used this pack for close to 200 miles, with a fair amount of bushwhacking and dragging it through desert brush in overgrown canyons. It still looks almost new. 

Performance in the field

Carry comfort and load stability

The Pemi 15 feels good when you’re running. This pack is designed to carry moderately heavy loads, and it does that well. It doesn’t bounce as much as heavily loaded running vests do. The shoulder straps distribute weight across your shoulders and chest, so it stays comfortable all day. 

Hyperlite states that this pack is comfortable up to 15 pounds. I found 10-12 pounds was my limit for comfortably running with this pack, but that’s more because running isn’t as comfortable with 15 extra pounds on your back, no matter how comfortable that extra weight is. However, hiking with 15 pounds of weight is comfortable, so you can load up on food and water, then start running when you’ve drunk and eaten some. 

If you use this pack when it isn’t full, it’s very comfortable. However, the extra material will bounce around, which could be annoying to some people. There are side compression straps to shrink the internal volume, but the extra material still crinkles annoyingly. 

Pocket accessibility

The Pemi has tons of accessible pockets you can reach without taking the pack off. Each shoulder strap has four pockets: a 500 mL soft flask pocket, a top-access stretch mesh pocket layered over the soft flask pocket, a side-access zippered pocket sized for smartphones and other small items like lip balm, and another top-access stretch mesh pocket on the remaining section of the strap that goes under your arm. 

It also has a large Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) stretch mesh pocket on the back of the pack. This material is rad because it’s much more durable than other elastane-based stretch mesh while still being stretchy. There is also a zipper running vertically along the side of the pack, allowing you to access the main compartment without opening the roll-top closure—a brilliant feature that makes grabbing stuff on the trail faster. 

Every pocket on the shoulder straps is very easy to access while you’re moving. You can also remove one shoulder strap to reach the rear stretch mesh pocket. If you’re skilled, you can also get into the side-access zippered opening without stopping.

The Pemi’s water bladder sleeve is accessible on the outside of the pack, too. This allows you to remove and refill the bladder more quickly, since you don’t have to unpack the main compartment to access it (see more on this below).

Water management

As I mentioned in the pockets section, the Pemi’s water bladder sleeve lets you access it from the outside of the pack. You can slide a 2-liter (or smaller) bladder into the durable mesh sleeve, which lets the water’s weight rest directly against your back. There isn’t anything built into the pack specifically designed to hold a water bladder’s drinking tube. But I don’t see this as a flaw, because it gives you the flexibility to secure the tube with any part of the shock cord system that zigzags across your chest. 

The shoulder strap pockets can each hold a 500 mL soft flask running bottle. These pockets hold the bottles securely while running, and I’ve never had an issue with them bouncing out or falling deeper into the pocket when they’re emptier, either. 

Fit and adjustability

The Pemi comes in four different strap sizes to fit different chest circumferences: small (34"-38"), medium (38"-40"), large (40"-42"), and X-Large (42"-44"). 

The sternum strap system is a piece of shock cord that hooks across your chest in a zig-zag and tightens via a toggle. You can adjust this system almost infinitely, as there is a chain of loops running along the inside edge of each strap. The shock cord can be secured to any of these loops, and the two hooks and toggle can also hook anywhere along the straps to fit your body best. 

Packability and compression

The Pemi 15 has two cinch straps on the side of the pack that let you compress it when you aren’t using the full volume of the main compartment. You can also use these side compression straps to lash extra gear—running poles, ice axe, or a jacket—to the outside of the pack. The webbing that forms a chain of loops on the shoulder straps is also used on the back edge of the pack, so you can adjust the compression straps to suit your needs. 

In total, there are three of these side compression straps per side. One of the side compression straps also has hardware to hold an ice axe. Since the compression cords have a hook and toggle on one end, they can also clip to themselves to secure the handle of the ice axe. 

The roll top also secures to a pair of adjustable, movable clips. You can move these clips up or down along the chain of loops on the back of the pack, depending on how far down you need to cinch the roll-top closure.

Durability

Overall, the Pemi 15 is a very durable pack. I’ve used it for roughly 200 miles so far, hiking through brushy, overgrown desert canyons and scrambling in alpine conditions, and it still looks almost new. 

The ALUULA fabric used on the pack body is extremely durable. I used another pack made of the same ALUULA material, a Nashville Pack The Cutaway, for an entire 2,000-mile thru-hike on the Appalachian Trail. After 2,000 miles, that pack is still in great shape, so I’d expect the Pemi to hold up for years. 

The UHMWPE stretch mesh used on the Pemi’s back pocket is also much more durable than standard stretch mesh used on many running vests and fastpacks. The Pemi’s back stretch pocket will likely last longer than the shoulder strap pockets, which are made of standard Lycra mesh.

The back panel mesh is also very durable. After several months of use, there is no visible wear on this back panel material, either. 

Features

15 Liter Volume and Four Size Options

The Pemi holds 15 liters of gear and doesn’t come in larger or smaller volume options. It comes in sizes small through extra large. Each size fits a range of chest circumferences: small (34"-38"), medium (38"-40"), large (40"-42"), and X-Large (42"-44"). 

Running Vest Style Straps

The Pemi 15  has running-vest-style chest straps. The sternum strap consists of an adjustable, replaceable piece of shock cord with hooks and a toggle for tightening or loosening. 

Rigid Foam Back Panel 

The Pemi’s back panel is made of rigid foam. The foam is not removable. 

Roll-top Closure

The Pemi has a roll-top closure for the main compartment. The roll top clips onto webbing straps that are adjustable up and down the pack. 

Four Shoulder strap pockets 

Both running vest shoulder straps have four pockets—a soft flask bottle pocket, two snack pockets you access from the top, and a zipper-closure pocket that’s large enough for a smartphone. 

Hydration sleeve with external access 

The Pemi has a hydration sleeve that you can access from the outside of the pack.

Main Compartment Side Zipper Access

The main compartment, which you pack through the roll-top closure, also has a zippered opening on the side of the pack. This zipper allows you to grab an item quickly without opening the roll-top. 

Ice Axe or Trekking pole attachment

The Pemi 15 has hardware to carry an ice axe. It also has moveable cinch cords with toggles and hooks that you can use to lash trekking poles to the back. 

ALUULA 97 Main body material

The Pemi is made with ALUULA 97, a UHMWPE (Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene) fabric that is adhesive-free, waterproof, heat-weldable, and UV-resistant composite material.

Rear UHMWPE mesh pocket 

It has a rear pocket made of UHMWPE stretch mesh that is extremely rip-resistant. 

Waterproof materials 

The ALUULA material used on the pack is waterproof. However, the seams are not taped, so it isn’t completely waterproof, only extremely water-resistant. 

Sustainability

The ALUULA 97 material used on the Pemi is 100% recyclable and is made entirely of Polyethylene with no adhesives. This material is extremely durable and up to 8 times stronger than steel for its weight, so it will last a long time. 

All ALUULA materials are made using low-energy, low-waste, and low-fume production methods. Offcuts and old products can be chemically recycled into ethylene gas and repolymerized for reuse in new products. You can read more about ALUULA fabrics on their website. 

Should you buy the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Pemi 15 running vest?

Buy if:

• You want a high-volume running vest, but don’t want to use it for overnight fastpacking

• You’re a dedicated ultralight fastpacker who can cram an overnight kit into a 15-liter pack. 

• You’re looking for the ideal pack for mountain running, where you need to carry a lot of layers and food. 

• You want a durable pack for hiking, trail running, and scrambling. 

• You’re a peak bagger who needs to carry a lot of gear while summiting remote mountain peaks. 

Skip if:

• You need a running vest, but don’t need 15 liters of gear because you only carry water, snacks, and a jacket. 

• You want an affordable backpack for summertime adventures. 

• You want to start going on overnight fastpacking trips and want to carry 20+ liters of gear.

Where to buy the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Pemi 15 running vest

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Pemi 15 running vest is available on the Hyperlite website.

Hyperlite Mountain Gear

You can sometimes find more options when purchasing directly from the manufacturer. It can make it easier if you need to submit a warranty return, such as due to a defect.

Similar running vests

Hyperlite Pemi 15 Running Vest vs Black Diamond Distance 15 Backpack

Price: $200
Volume: 15L
Weight: 11.6 oz
Exterior pockets: 7
Water layout: 2 x soft flasks, 2 x 1 L bottles

The Black Diamond Distance 15 is our favorite for scrambling in our running backpacks guide. It costs $50 less than the Pemi and weighs about the same. Overall, we like both the Distance and Pemi a lot because they occupy the “Goldilocks” zone between smaller-volume running vests and larger-volume fastpacks. They’re both extremely durable, comfortable, and capable of carrying larger loads for mountain running, winter trail running, and scrambling. 

The Distance comes in 8L and 22L options, as well as a 15L size we tested. The Distance has three stretch mesh pockets on the shoulder straps—a soft flask pocket, a larger drop-in pocket that stretches over the top of the water bottle pocket, and a smaller drop-in pocket where the shoulder straps are sewn into the pack. The Distance has an extra zippered pocket on the right shoulder strap, too. This is one less pocket than the Pemi, which also has zippered pockets on each shoulder strap (for a total of four per strap). The Distance also has two external pockets for folding running poles, but no other external pockets. This has less external pocket space than the Pemi, which has a UHMWPE stretch-mesh pocket.

Black Diamond Distance 15 Backpack

Hyperlite Pemi 15 vs Ultimate Direction Fastpack/Fastpackher 20

Price: $165
Volume: 23L
Weight: 18.4 - 19.8 oz
Exterior pockets: 9 
Water layout: 2 x soft flasks, 2 x 1 L bottles

The Ultimate Direction Fastpack is another pack that’s similar to the Pemi. The UD Fastpack is a 20-liter pack, compared to the Pemi, which can hold 15 liters of gear. The UD Fastpack is available in women’s and men’s sizes, comes in 30-liter and 40-liter versions, and is the overall winner in our running backpacks guide. 

The Fastpack and Pemi have a very similar pocket layout. They both have a stretch mesh pocket on the back and multiple pockets on the vest-style shoulder straps. The Fastpack has side water bottle pockets on each side, unlike the Pemi. The Pemi is more durable than the Fastpack and weighs 12.1 oz, compared to the Fastpack's 18.4 oz. The Fastpack is significantly less expensive than the Pemi, too. 

Ultimate Direction Fastpack/Fastpackher 20

Hyperlite Pemi 15 vs Outdoor Vitals Skyline 30 Fastpack

Price: $188
Volume: 28L (size L)
Weight: 20.6 - 21.6 oz
Exterior pockets: 6
Water layout: 2 soft flasks included, 2 L pockets, hydration sleeve

The Outdoor Vitals Skyline 30 Fastpack is the overall winner in our fastpacks guide. The Skyline comes in three sizes: S, M, and L. The small and medium-sized packs have a 23L main compartment volume, while the large has a 28L main pack volume. The size small weighs 20.6 oz, and the large weighs 21.6 oz. 

Compared to the Pemi 15, the Skyline is better suited for overnight fastpacking because it can carry more gear. The Skyline also costs almost $100 less than the Pemi. Both the Pemi and Skyline have UHMWPE stretch-mesh external pockets and similar shoulder-strap pockets on their vest-style shoulder straps. The Skyline also has side pockets and a bottom pocket, unlike the Pemi.

Outdoor Vitals Skyline 30 Fastpack

Hyperlite Pemi 15 vs Nashville Pack The Cutaway 30 Gridstop

Price: $237 (pack body) + $125 (vest straps) = $362
Volume: 31 - 35 L
Weight: 12.9 oz (18”)
Exterior pockets: 7
Water layout: 2 x soft flasks, 2 x 1 L bottles

The Nashville Pack The Cutaway 30 is another pack that’s similar to the Pemi 15. The Cutaway is our favorite fastpack for adjustability in our Fastpacks Guide, and comes in 20-, 30-, and 40-liter sizes. It’s available in ALUULA Graflyte material, similar to the Pemi’s body material. 

The Cutaway has the most possible pockets accessible while wearing the pack. It has four accessible pockets per shoulder strap, a bottom pocket, and side water bottle pockets that connect to the rear mesh pocket. If your shoulders are flexible enough, you can reach into the rear pocket and pull out a jacket without taking the pack off. 

The 30L Cutaway weighs about 15 oz, compared to the Pemi, which weighs 12 ounces for half the volume. The Cutaway is significantly more expensive than the Pemi, though. The pack body starts at $215, and can be more expensive depending on the material you choose. The vest straps cost another $125. However, because the vest straps on the Cutaway are sold separately, they’re replaceable. So even if you wear out the shoulder straps, you can replace them without needing to replace the entire pack. The Cutaway is also made in the USA.

Nashville Pack The Cutaway 30

Why you should trust us / About the author

Sam Schild is a thru-hiker, trail runner, cyclist, and mountain athlete based in a converted camper van across the western United States. He has been running since he was a kid, and tests running backpacks, running vests, and fastpacks for Treeline Review, among other (and maybe all?) things running. 

He has completed countless ultra-distance self-supported trail runs across the American Southwest. He has thru-hiked the Pacific Crest Trail, Continental Divide Trail, Appalachian Trail, Grand Enchantment Trail, Arizona Trail, Hayduke Trail, Pacific Northwest Trail, and the Colorado Trail twice. Most of those trails were completed with a frameless backpack or fastpack.  

You can read more about Sam on his author page or his website.

July 9th, 2026
Home > Gear Reviews > Footwear

Our verdict

Despite its name, what we love the Merrell Trail Glove 7 for is its everyday athleisure versatility beyond the trails, particularly in the gym. We love how approachable and easy it is to wear all day with minimal transition time, yet it has the breathability, flexibility, and elevated traction to stay comfortable during moderate to intense workouts. 

We wore this shoe for several months of sweaty days spent moving heavy gear across glossy warehouse floors, late-winter urban explorations, and sweltering indoor rowing sessions. We’re impressed with their forefoot flexibility and the excellent breathability of their mesh upper. It’s definitely a “vibe,” but we also like the cool athletic style and many available colors of the Trail Glove. 

Though its traction isn’t the best on rugged trails, it's well above average for indoor and gym use, like tire pushes and lunges. It runs narrower than many other barefoot shoes, though the mesh upper makes it somewhat more forgiving than the fit might suggest. Ultimately, we think this shoe is an excellent choice for gym rats needing great traction and unrelenting breathability for their workouts.

Merrell Trail Glove 7

Men's

Women's

We write mission-driven gear reviews. To find the best gear, we combine expert reviews, everyday user opinions, and rigorous independent trail testing—never pop-up or display ads. We are reader-supported and may make a small commission from some qualifying affiliate links. Learn more.

Merrell Trail Glove 7 Specifications

• Price: $130

• Drop: 0 mm

• Stack height: 14 mm

• Weight per pair: 14.2 oz

• Upper: Recycled mesh

• Outsole: Vibram Ecostep recycled outsole (30% recycled rubber)

• Sole flexibility: Medium-high

• Toe box: Standard

• Closure: Laces

• Waterproof: No

• Vegan: Yes

• Sizing: Half sizes available; women’s 5-11, men’s 7-15

• Best use: Gym, every day, moderate hiking

Best for

• Gym-goers who want a flexible, zero-drop shoe with good grip

• Moderate hikers who like flexible soles

• Everyday athleisure fans

Comparison tables

Men’s

Women’s

What we liked

• Great flexibility without having to feel every pebble underfoot

• Excellent breathability during sweaty workouts

• Great traction on highly smooth and polished surfaces

• Cool athleisure style

What could be better

• Runs somewhat narrow

• Tread traps small pebbles and gravel

How we tested

Both our men’s and women’s main testers are barefoot enthusiasts, and have been for well over a decade. We put the Merrell Trail Glove 7s through their paces across three seasons of wear, braving snowstorms, mud puddles, and heatwaves. We worked out, went to work, walked the dog, and ran errands in these shoes. We wore them for miles at a time, jogging down streets, hiking trails, exploring cities, and hauling gear. 

We got nitty gritty with lacing systems and inspected their durability after crashing through vegetation. After wearing them for days at a time, we made direct comparisons with other barefoot shoes we tested and teased apart which ones are best for which purposes.

Performance in the field

Ground feel and sensory feedback

On the scale of barefoot shoes, the Merrell Trail Glove 7 is just higher than average in terms of ground feel. Though its 14 mm-thick soles put more between your feet and the ground, what’s underfoot is softer and more forgiving than some thinner barefoot shoes we tested. 

This cushioning smooths over the sharpest sections of trails without totally dulling the feeling of undulation underfoot. Under the heel, sensations are more muted, but below the forefoot, the Trail Glove still provides a good level of feedback that feels useful without being overwhelming for someone relatively new to barefoot shoes.

Fit and toe box

While most barefoot shoes emphasize a wider toe box for foot splay in stride, the Trail Glove width is more similar to conventional shoes. However, its upper is thinner and more flexible, and the edges of the sole allow feet to spread moderately over the sides with minimal constriction. Perhaps an unconventional approach to “wide toe box”, we found that this design works for all but the widest-footed wearers.

The heel cup features a more conventional construction, with thicker padding around the shoe opening that provides a more secure fit around your ankle. Along the instep and midfoot, zigzagged laces are visibly sewn onto both sides of the upper, anchoring the traditional laces. Though these sidewall adjustment laces don’t extend all the way down to the sole, as Xero shoe adjustment straps do, they still let you somewhat customize the fit and snugness of the Trail Glove through the midfoot — which we found very useful when dialing in our shoes to support big movements in the gym. 

Traction and outsole grip

Though the Trail Glove 7 is designed for trail use, we found others with better traction on trails. Instead, our testing showed us just how great the small, flexible, 2.5 mm-thick tread of these shoes is on polished floors, particularly when we’re pushing ourselves — and these shoes — to their limits. 

Hiking on gravelly trails resulted in small pebbles getting frequently trapped between the countless maze-like lines of the soft rubber tread pattern. But when we needed to push a 100 lb tire across a studio or move a 200 lb solid wood bar across a polished warehouse floor, the grip of the Trail Glove 7 proved its worth many times over. Through trial and error, we learned that what these shoes lacked in intense trail traction, they made up for on smooth flooring, where other indoor and gym-specific shoes fell short. 

Flexibility and natural movement

The flexibility of the Trail Glove 7's soles is focused in the forefoot. From the heel through the midfoot, their flexibility is rather limited, trending instead toward structured support. Yet their forefoot flex was enough that we felt our stride could be fairly natural. And it’s located in just the right section of the shoe to facilitate big movements — like weighted lunges, rowing, and climbing metal posts.

With the sole extending upward around the midfoot and instep (and covering the back of the heel), the upper of the Trail Glove 7 feels secure when moving. As those patches of sole wraparound fade to nothing around the forefoot, the fabric's impressive flexibility becomes more apparent. By concentrating flexibility in the parts of the foot that flex the most, the Trail Glove feels more flexible on the foot than it does when bending it in hand. We’re impressed by how well that translates into feeling pretty natural underfoot, while still offering some of the structure and protection of conventional shoes. 

Comfort over time

As far as barefoot shoes go, the Trail Glove 7 is easier to transition into from conventional shoes than many others. It still provides rigidity in key areas of the foot that are unused to movement after a lifetime in “regular” shoes, like under the heel and midfoot. 

With 14 mm underfoot, the Trail Glove also provides more cushioning and is more forgiving than most other barefoot shoes, which tend to be thinner and not as soft. We still recommend a thoughtful transition for wearers coming from conventional footwear, but folks already somewhat used to low-drop or barefoot shoes will find these easy to get comfortable in, right out of the box. 

Durability

The Trail Glove 7 doesn’t just feature a toe cap — the actual sole of the shoe simply wraps up over the end of the toe. And up the back of the heel. And on each side of the midfoot. That offers an impressive amount of accidentally-kicking-random-objects protection. 

The outsole of these shoes is made with Vibram recycled material, typically associated with increased durability. At the same time, the individual tread patterns are rather thin and flexible–not traits we would typically associate with longevity. That said, we wore these shoes for months of long workdays on our feet and daily visits to the gym, and they currently show no signs of wear anywhere (just dirt!). 

Features

• Zero-drop – heel and forefoot ride the same distance from the ground, encouraging a more natural gait

• Stack Height – the thickness of all underfoot components between your foot (or sock) and the ground

• Vibram Ecostep Recycled Outsole – contains 30% recycled rubber, known for enhanced traction on wet surfaces and greater longevity

• 100% Recycled Mesh Upper – uses recycled synthetic materials (also true of laces and webbing), while the structural design of the mesh facilitates airflow and breathability

• Merrell Barefoot 2 – pattern of construction that keeps the foot in a natural position, with heel and forefoot the same distance from the ground

• FloatPro Foam midsole – provides some cushioning from debris underfoot and softens the transition from conventional shoes

• Cleansport NXT – proprietary treatment of construction materials to facilitate natural odor control

Should you buy the Merrell Trail Glove 7?

Buy if:

• You want a barefoot shoe for CrossFit or the gym

• You’re seeking an athleisure shoe that can still perform under duress

• You’re fairly new to the barefoot scene and want a good transition shoe

Skip if:

• You need top-tier trail traction

• You have very wide feet

• You often walk over small-grained gravel

Where to buy

The Merrell Trail Glove 7 barefoot shoes are popular footwear, so you have options when it comes to retailers. Here are some of the pros of the retailers.

REI

Pros: 100% satisfaction policy for 1 year; 10% dividend for members.

Men's and women's

Amazon

Pros: Free 2-day shipping with Amazon Prime membership

Men's and women's

Returns and advice on where to buy

In general for shoes, we recommend purchasing from a place with easy or free returns, like REI. Trying on shoes is an important way to get the sizing right. With both those retailers, if your funds allow, you can buy two sizes and easily return one. Additionally, check reviews to see whether other users recommend sizing up or down. 

Similar barefoot shoes

Merrell Trail Glove 7 vs Lems Primal 3

MSRP: $125
Stack height: 9.5 mm
Weight (per pair): 1 lb 1.2 oz
Upper: Super-soft microfiber + open-weave mesh (100% vegan)
Outsole: Injection Blown Rubber (IBR)
Flexibility: Medium
Grip: Medium-high
Ground feel: Medium-low

Despite being marketed for slightly different uses, we actually found a lot of overlap in the activities where these two shoes excel — everyday wear and moderate-intensity activities. Where the Trail Glove has the leg up on smooth-surface traction and a secure fit, the Primal offers a wider toe box, thinner sole, and the ability to go sockless on cork insoles. The Lems Primal 3 are our best overall pick in our Best Barefoot Shoes guide.

Lems Primal 3

Merrell Trail Glove 7 vs Xero Mesa Trail II

MSRP: $120
Stack height: Not stated
Weight (per pair): 15.6 oz (men’s), 13.4 oz (women’s)
Upper: Synthetic mesh
Outsole: FeelTrue rubber
Flexibility: High
Grip: High
Ground feel: High

We’re not opposed to wearing the Trail Glove 7 for hikes and trail runs, but for traction when you need it most and a truly barefoot feel, we reach for the Mesa Trail II. The multidirectional caret-shaped (^) lugs of the Mesa Trail kept us moving forward over loose gravel slopes where the shorter tread of the Trail Gloves picked up small pebbles and folded, letting us slip at inopportune moments. These are the winners of best hiking shoes in our Best Barefoot Shoes guide. We also have a full review of the Xero Mesa Trail II.

Xero Mesa Trail II

Merrell Trail Glove 7 vs Altra Lone Peak 9

MSRP: $145
Stack height: 25 mm
Weight (per pair): 1 lb 6.4 oz (men’s), 1 lb 3 oz (women’s)
Upper: Ripstop mesh
Outsole: MaxTrac rubber
Flexibility: Medium
Grip: Exceptionally high
Ground feel: Moderate

When you need the best traction on the trails, the Altra Lone Peak 9 is the zero-drop shoe we recommend. It has serious grip — and the 9+ GTX version works even better in wet, sloppy terrain. While the Lone Peak is zero-drop, its 25 mm stack height is too much for some barefoot enthusiasts, who might prefer the more flexible 14 mm of the Trail Glove 7. Learn more in our in-depth review of the Altra Lone Peak 9/9+ and the Altra Lone Peak 9+ GTX trail running shoes.

Altra Lone Peak 9

Merrell Trail Glove 7 vs Vivobarefoot Primus Lite 3.5

MSRP: $150
Stack height: 2 mm
Weight (per pair): 1 lb 2.9 oz
Upper: rPET mesh
Outsole: Rubber
Flexibility: Medium-high
Grip: Medium
Ground feel: High

While these two shoes have somewhat similar, narrower shapes than many other barefoot shoes, the Merrell Trail Glove 7 maintains a seriously flexible upper that’s more accommodating of foot splay. On the other hand, the Vivobarefoot Primus Lite 3.5 has stiffened sections on each side of the upper, which feel uncomfortably restrictive, even on average-width feet.

Vivobarefoot Primus Lite 3.5

Why you should trust us / About the author

Maggie is an avid trail runner based in Reno, Nevada, hitting her neighborhood trails at least four days a week and taking hikes in her backyard Sierra Nevada Mountains and through the deserts of northern Nevada as often as possible. She likes to compete in both trail and road races and is no stranger to the podium. She worked as a professional backcountry guide for over 15 years, backpacking, hiking, and kayaking, from places like Texas and Utah to the U.S. Virgin Islands and the Galapagos Islands, mostly in a pair of Chaco sandals.

Maggie started her barefoot journey running in some of the early Vibram Fivefinger shoes back in 2009. Though she added some cushion to her runs after a few years pounding cement, she is still adamant about running in only zero-drop shoes. She has logged thousands of miles in nine pairs and iterations of the Altra Lone Peak trail shoe line over the past decade. 

Not only is Maggie a passionate advocate for wearing barefoot shoes, she also studied hand and foot evolution and morphology at university and completed a Master’s thesis on chimpanzee hand and foot manipulation of tools. She spent 7 years teaching anatomy and osteology labs at the university level, giving her a high level of familiarity with the more than 100 bones that make up human hands and feet.

When not running, Maggie loves to be as barefoot as possible, feeling the ground and honing her foot stability and strength. She explores her natural backyard with her dog, Isla, and travels the world with a pair of barefoot shoes on her feet and Altra Lone Peaks in her bag.

July 9th, 2026, updated with a new overall winner, new best changing poncho towel, two new towels, and to remove discontinued products
Home > Gear Reviews > Camping

For travel, camping, backpacking, or sweaty hikes, having your own quick-dry towel is convenient, hygienic, and an awesome comfort upgrade. We spent two years testing camping towels and travel towels, using them to dry off after solar showers at campgrounds, swims and boating in lakes and beaches, and cleaning up while traveling and on backpacking trips.

Since camping towels are absorbent and designed with a minimal, packable profile, they're also great for hauling to the gym, yoga, beach, and day hikes. When traveling, having a packable personal towel spares you from relying on uncomfortable hotel towels or paying towel fees at gyms, pools, or hot springs. When road tripping or van-lifing, a lightweight towel means you can dry off quickly after a swim in a river or a shower off the side of your car. As Douglas Adams wrote in The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, "A towel is about the most massively useful thing an interstellar hitchhiker can have." These are the best towels for adventure, interstellar or otherwise.

We tested 17 of the most popular camping and travel towels in varied sizes for absorbency, softness, packability, dry time, and design. We also considered microplastics shedding and environmental impact, which turned out to matter more than we expected across the brands we tested.

Top Pick: The Nomadix Ultralight earns our Best Overall award. It stood out for hitting all the boxes: among the softest towels we tested, the widest range of colors and patterns of any towel on the market, a hook with a clip for hanging from branches or a clothesline, a thin sand-repelling fabric that works equally well at the beach and at camp, and sizes from face to beach so you can tailor it exactly to your needs.

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Comparison table

*Reflects MSRP price. Discounts can be found on our Deals Page.

** Absorption rate as stated by brand.

The winners

Best overall quick-dry towel: Nomadix Ultralight

Best use: Travel, beach, watersports, backpacking
Material: 88% Post-consumer recycled polyester
Sizes available: 54 x 30"
Loop or snap? Yes
Carry pouch? Yes
Stated absorption rate: Not stated
What we liked: Options of designs and colors, many options for sizes, softness, quick dry, value for price
What we didn’t like: Not the cheapest (though still a great value)

The Nomadix Ultralight towel is the best quick-dry towel for camping, backpacking, swimming, the beach, the gym, and travel. It hits all the boxes we're looking for in a camp towel. The Nomadix Ultralight is among the softest towels we tested. It comes in the most colors and patterns, so you can individualize what otherwise is a straightforward product that usually doesn't have a lot of room for getting stylish.

While we recommend the beach-sized Ultralight, it comes in a popular bandana size, mini size, and 3-pack of face towels, so you can tailor it for your needs. It not only has a hook, but the hook has a clip so you can snap it around tree branches or a clothesline to hang. 

While not the least expensive towel, it's reasonably priced and much softer than our budget winner. It also feels pleasant on the hand—neither too thick nor too thin. It's a thin, smooth, no-pile fabric that repels sand and dirt, so you can sit on it at the beach or in camp.

See how the Nomadix Ultralight fits into our full Camping with Kids Checklist, which covers the complete family car-camping kit, from sleep systems to hygiene.

In short, the Nomadix Ultralight ticks all the boxes we want on a camping towel: soft, compact, quick-drying, with lots of options for sizes and colors. It's a crowd-pleasing towel worthy of bringing along for your next outdoor trip.

Best quick-dry towel for swimming: Nomadix Original Towel

Best use: Watersports, Yoga, Camping
Material: Recycled plastic polyester/ nylon
Sizes available: 72 x 30 inches
Loop or snap? Yes
Carry pouch? No
Stated absorption rate: 4x its weight
What we liked: use for yoga, travel, and camp, hook, design, softer fabric more reminscent of terry-cloth style towels 
What we didn’t like: sized for a yoga mat means it is a non-standard towel size, more expensive than other towels, fewer design options

If I had to only choose one camp towel, I'd go with the Nomadix The Towel, which is our winner for best beach towel for swimming. It has some of the most square footage of all the towels we tested (and we tried the largest sizes available from all brands). It's got a mid-height pill that feels almost terry-cloth soft and has some of the best absorbency of all the towels we tested, making it the best for drying off after a lakeside swim or ocean.

The Nomadix Original Towel has a clip that works with hooks or tree branches. It is so absorbent that it even is designed to double as a hot yoga towel, so it fits squarely over a standard size yoga mat and provides grip when sweaty. 

The Nomadix Original also comes in an assortment of fun designs and colors. Were it not for the limited size options and heavier weight, this would have been our best overall camp towel. But if the size works for you and you have a little more room in your swim bag, the Nomadix The Towel is the camping towel we recommend.

Doing some campsite yoga on the Nomadix Towel at a 4-day camping trip in Montana.

Enjoying a camp shower and using the Nomadix Original towel

Using the Nomadix towel with an outdoor camp solar shower.

The material is soft and absorbent, feeling more like a towel you'd have at home than most travel towels we considered. While not quite spa-towel soft, it is less plasticky-feeling and more pliable than most of the towels we tested. 

Still, the Nomadix doesn't have the stretchiness of the other towels designed for an at-home feel, like the PackTowl Luxe. But that style of towel often has a slower dry time.

Since it's shaped to fit a yoga mat, that means it is longer than most towels we tested while not necessarily being wider than other towels. So even though it takes up a larger area, when wrapping it around your body, it doesn't give you added modesty over a PackTowl. 

The Nomadix towel is also thicker than most other travel towels. For us, that means it's survived nearly five years of rough use, including using it multiple times a week as a yoga towel.

But that thickness means it weighs more and takes up more space than other travel towels, so keep this in mind if you have limited space in your suitcase, backpack, or camper van. 

Nomadix is a member of 1% for the Planet and is Climate Label certified.

Quick-dry towels really earn their keep when you're camping with kids — between swim sessions, muddy boots, and impromptu cleanups, you'll go through them fast.

Best quick-dry towel for traveling: Matador NanoDry 

Best use: Travel, Camping
Material: Polyester
Sizes available: 52 x 24 inches
Loop or snap? Yes
Carry pouch? Yes, silicone/anodized aluminum carabiner
Stated absorption rate: 2.3x its weight
What we liked: lightest weight, thin
What we didn’t like: one size, one color, not big or thick enough to provide modestry after a shower

The Matador NanoDry towel is our winner for best camp towel for traveling. It is the lightest towel we tested and is incredibly quick drying. It comes in its own protective silicone case (not plastic!) that clips to the outside of your travel bag when you're really trying to fit everything in. The case also adds an extra level of hygiene when traveling, especially if you're like me and find yourself packing and unpacking luggage in airports and train stations. Many towels come with cases but this one was the best sized and had the best air flow. 

The Matador NanoDry Towel is a great towel (even without the case) with excellent absorption and a soft handfeel. While it's simple (only available in grey) it is sleek enough to double as a scarf for the multi-purpose kind of traveler.

You can't tell, but the minimalist Matador travel towel is around my neck as I set off to kayak.

Drying off after a ford with the Matador Travel towel.

The Matador travel towel is so minimalist, I sometimes carry it while backpacking to dry off.

The material on the Matador Towel is very thin and it is among the fastest drying towels we tested. It doesn't scream "I'm a towel" like the other quick-dry towels we tested, so you can use it as a multi-purpose item, which is common among minimalist travelers. It also has a skinnier shape than the other towels we tested and I wore it on one trip as a scarf when I needed extra sun protection around my neck. While this means that the design isn't as fun (or loud) as some of the colors and patterns offered on other camp towels, it does mean you'll blend in better if you are traveling in Europe. 

Best affordable quick dry towel: RainFiber PackTowel

Best use: Travel, camping
Material: Microfiber
Sizes available: 6 sizes
Loop or snap? Yes
Carry pouch? Yes
Stated absorption rate: 5x its weight
What we liked: Value for price, color options, absorbency, speed of drying
What we didn’t like: Colors don't look quite like on the webpage, not as soft as other towels, comes with stuff sack, microplastics

The Rainfiber PackTowel is the best affordable quick-dry towel. An Amazon bestseller, it scored high for absorbency and quick drying in our side-by-side "lab" testing. It's available in the most sizes and colors of any of the models we considered. It isn't as soft against the skin as other towels we tested. It's also a stiffer feeling towel, almost as if it has been starched. 

Because their largest size is affordable, the Rainfiber towel nearly won our award for best beach towel and best large towel. However, we think regardless of which size you get (and we tested their largest and their smallest size), the Rainfiber is the best budget towel. Rainfiber Packtowel won our Reader’s Favorite Gear of the Year Award in 2025.

Woman wrapped in the Rainfiber PackToweld by a river

Rainfiber PackTowel hanging in a tree by a river

Rainfiber PackTowel hanging over a tree banch drying

Rainfiber PackTowel in its stuff sack

While not every person will agree, we didn't like that the Rainfiber PackTowel comes with a stuff sack. My towels at home don't come with a stuff sack so I don't understand why a travel towel would come with one. The included stuff sack doesn't prevent a wet towel from moistening nearby items. And honestly, this towel dries so quickly that the time it stays wet is pretty minimal. It's unnecessary packaging that makes the product look fancier. Ultimately, the stuff sack is another plastic-based item that will end up in the trash.

Lastly, while the Rainfiber has the most color options, the color that showed up on my computer screen wasn't the same shade as what showed up in the mail. The teal was more of a sea foam. The lilac is more of a magenta. This is a minor quibble, but something to keep in mind while ordering.

Best Quick Dry Towel for Beach: PackTowl Personal Body

Best use: Travel, watersports
Material: 80% polyester/ 20% nylon (50% recycled)
Sizes available: Body, beach
Loop or snap? Yes
Carry pouch? No
Stated absorption rate: 4x its weight
What we liked: Options of designs and colors, many options for sizes, softness, quick dry, value for price
What we didn’t like: Micro plastics shedding 

The PackTowl Personal Body towel is the best quick-dry towel for the beach. Sand doesn't stick to its fabric. It comes in many colors and patterns. It's soft to sit on and absorbent to use after a swim. It's also relatively compact, making it easy to carry in a beach bag. 

While not the least expensive towel, it's reasonably priced and much softer than our budget winner. 

It not only has a hook, but the hook has a clip so you can snap it around tree branches or a clothesline to hang.

I often wish this towel was bigger so I can wrap it around myself for more modesty. However, the PackTowl poncho (made of the same material) has plenty of coverage (see review below). Still, we recommend the Packtowl personal for most beach situations because it is more compact and lightweight than the Poncho version, so is more versatile. It's also more affordable. 

While not every person may agree this is a benefit, we appreciated that the PackTowl didn't come with a stuff sack, as we found we didn't use the stuff sacks often and they just end up being thrown away.

Best comfortable camping towel: REI Multi-Towel Deluxe

Best use: Travel
Material: 85% Polyester 15% Nylon Microfiber (Bluesign Approved)
Sizes available: 29 x 16" / 50 x 25" / 58 x 39"
Loop or snap? Yes
Carry pouch? Yes
Stated absorption rate: 6.5x its weight
What we liked: soft stretchy terry-like softness
What we didn’t like: slower dry time, not quite wide enough to provide much modesty after a shower, microplastics

Compared to backpackers and "one-bag" style travelers, campers value comfort. The most comfortable camp towel we tested was the REI Multi-Towel Deluxe, making it the best option for campers who want that at-home feel in a quick-dry towel. With terry-cloth soft, stretchy material, the REI Deluxe Towel feels, well, luxurious.

Despite its luxury handfeel, the REI Multi-Towel Deluxe still comes with the standards we find in more camp-y looking towels such as a handy snap hook found in our overall winner, the PackTowl Personal. 

The REI Multi-Towel Deluxe doesn't dry as quickly as other towels we tested. But we think if you're parked in a campsite for a weekend or a few weeks, you likely can spare the extra half hour of dry time. Reinforced seams along the edges give it durability and a sophisticated look. A light ribbing helps scrub off the grime better and gives some texture. 

The REI Multi-Towel Deluxe is similar to the PackTowl Luxe but costs less and has different dimensions. It's 1" shorter but 3" wider, which adds some modesty when wrapping the towel around yourself.

Best quick-dry towel for backpacking: Sea to Summit Drylite Towel

Best use: Travel, backpacking
Material: 80% recycled polyester, 20% nylon microfiber
Sizes available: 16 x 32" / 20 x 39" / 24 x 47" / 30 x 59" / 34 x 67"
Loop or snap? Yes
Carry pouch? Yes, Mesh Faced Storage Pouch
Stated absorption rate: unstated
What we liked: excellent packability, light weight, multiple use, easily attaches to trees and a backpack 
What we didn’t like: limited sizing, not as soft as other towels, microplastics

The Sea to Summit Drylite towel is the best quick-dry towel for backpacking due to its light weight, high absorbancy, and minimal profile. Backpackers want a camp towel that can help them dry off while swimming or for wiping condensation from the inside of their tent, but that won't add much extra weight to their pack. The Sea to Summit towel hits all those marks at 3.5 oz for the size medium.

The Sea to Summit Drylite has a long snap hook that we used to attach to tree branches and our backpack's straps to dry it off.

The Drylite is available in many sizes, so you can decide how much towel you need. We found the towel so absorbent that the medium was all we needed to dry off in summer, but you may want larger for modesty. 

We also appreciated it is available in many colors, including a bright orange. Search and rescue teams recommend displaying large, brightly colored gear in case of emergencies. While you may opt for stealthier colors for the rest of your backpacking gear, it's not a bad idea to have something like a compact towel that can be opened up and waved to flag down a rescue. 

The Sea to Summit towel also comes with a separate minimalist carry case so you can keep your wet towel separate from your other gear. While we disliked the carry cases on other towels, we found it an important addition for a backpacking towel. A carry case is important if you used your towel to wipe down a leaking or condensation-filled tent, for example. The carry case means you can separate your wet towel from gear you want to keep dry, like a sleeping bag. We wish the carry case had a minimalist carabiner included (like on the Matador carry case) but most backpackers are likely to have a carabiner around, so it isn't a dealbreaker. 

It's worth noting that if you're a backpacker who values weight above all else, the Matador Dry Light towel is a lighter option that we recommend at 2.4 oz without the carry case. The Lightload Towels are even lighter, but are almost a one-use towel. For most backpackers, though, the Sea to Summit Drylite is a better size and thickness and provides more warmth. 

Best Wearable Quick Dry Towel: PackTowl Poncho

Best use: Camping, van life, surfing
Material: 85% polyester/15% nylon
Sizes available: S/M, M/L
Loop or snap? Yes
Carry pouch? No
Stated absorption rate: 3x its weight
What we liked: not too bulky despite extra material for a poncho, not too heavy despite extra material, quick drying
What we didn't like: could use a little more side coverage for changing

The Packtowl Poncho doesn't look like a traditional beach towel or even camping towel. It's a poncho made of quick-dry camping towel material. That means you can easily change into or out of your swim suit at the beach. It means you can cover up your body from the sun after some time in the water without having to put on your clothes and get them sandy. 

We've even used the Packtowl Poncho for modesty to change out of hiking clothes after a long trip. We also used it at the gym for changing in the locker room after taking a shower. 

We've tested a few ponchos and wearables and chose this one because it's lighter weight and easier to pack than the Nomadix poncho towel. It's also faster drying.

Other quick-dry towels we tested

Lightload Towel

Best use: Backpacking, travel
Material: 100% viscose
Sizes available: 12 x 12"
Loop or snap? No
Carry pouch? No
Stated absorption rate: 10x its weight

By far the lightest towel we tested, this towel is the size of a silver dollar and expands in contact with water. It's very thin and even at max size, grows only to 12 x 12" dimensions. It's convenient for backpacking trips but isn't designed for multiple uses. One trip in the washer and it is shredded, resembling what happens when you leave a tissue in your pocket.

Rumpl Tech Towel

Best use: Travel, camping, water sports
Material: 95% polyester, 5% spandex
Sizes available: 29.5 x 72”
Loop or snap? Yes
Carry pouch? No
Stated absorption rate: unstated

The Rumpl Everywhere Towel has some of the prettiest designs out there, similar to the PackTowl Personal. However, in our tests, it has some of the lowest absorbency rates. It also isn't as soft as other towels we tested.

Nomadix Poncho

Best use: Camping, van life, surfing
Material: Recycled polyester/nylon
Sizes available: S/M, M/L
Loop or snap? No
Carry pouch? No
Stated absorption rate: 4x its weight

Made of the same material as our winner for best versatile camping towel, the Nomadix Poncho is a wearable towel that can be used for changing in and out of a swimsuit or for extra warmth.

It unfolds into a large double towel for sitting at the beach or using as a picnic blanket. Plus, it has a hood with a drawstring for warmth. It thoughtfully has magnets to hang it to the side of a camper van as well as hooks for hanging on more conventional surfaces.

As much as we liked this poncho, it was the heaviest and bulkiest towel we tested, making it inconvenient to pack for travel or even trips to the gym. While we appreciate the ability to open up the poncho up to lie flat on the beach, the design meant we often found ourselves showing off too much side when changing.

Sea to Summit Tek Towel

Best use: Camping, boating, gym
Material: 80% polyester, 20% nylon microfiber
Sizes available: 16 x 32" / 20 x 40" / 24 x 48" / 30 x 60"
Loop or snap? Yes
Carry pouch? Zippered storage pouch
Stated absorption rate: unstated

The Sea to Summit Tek Towel is a quick-drying microfiber towel that feels terry-cloth soft. Seriously, this is a very comfortable towel against the face. It comes with a quick attach loop that snaps onto hooks and tree branches. The Tek Towel fits into a silicone carry case with a water-resistant zipper and one side has openings to facilitate faster drying, similar to the Matador towel. However, the Tek Towel was slower to dry than other towels and other high-pill towels were available in more sizes and colors.

Shamwow

Best use: Camp kitchen, wiping up things
Material: Rayon
Sizes available: Regular and mini
Loop or snap? No
Carry pouch? No
Stated absorption rate: 10 x

A favorite of TV infomercials, the Shamwow is a lightweight and extremely absorbent towel that is surprisingly soft. While not sold by an outdoor brand, we had to test it just to see how it matched up.

The Shamwow is a great utility towel. It can mop up spills in camp or wipe off condensation from a tent. It's durable enough to last a decade.

But this isn't a nice-looking towel. It doesn't dry flat. The corners curl up, giving it a less than rectangular shape. It lacks the refinement and design of almost all the other towels we tested. It's a great alternative to reusable paper towels for camp chores, but otherwise, we wouldn't recommend it.

Nomadix Organic Travel Towel

Best use: Hot springs, spas, pools
Material: 100% Organic cotton
Sizes available: 72.5 x 30"
Loop or snap? Yes
Carry pouch? No
Stated absorption rate: Not stated

The Nomadix Organic Travel Towel is a cotton-based towel that is soft, beautiful, elegant, and everything I'd want for a towel at home. It's got a lot of absorption and the size is right for covering the whole body. It's a good option to bring to a spa or hot spring resort, but wasn't quite compact or quick-drying enough to compete with other travel and camp towels we tested. Still, it is the only towel we've tested that is still on the market that is designed for travel and made of non-synthetic materials. So if you want a more eco-friendly camp towel, this is a great option.

Why do you need a quick-dry towel

A quick dry towel can make a camping trip, road trip, beach day, boating trip, or international travel more pleasant by providing you with the ability to clean up and dry off wherever you are. Here are some real world examples of situations where we've found having a camp towel or travel towel to be useful—and why we keep packing these towels on trips.

Convenience

If you're swimming, fishing, or boating, you're going to get wet. It's handy to have something on hand to dry off and camping towels are the quickest drying and most compact solution (compared to a traditional beach towel). You can easily fit them in your beach bag, dry bag to take on a Stand Up Paddle Board (SUP), or in carry-on baggage for trips farther from home. 

Hygiene

If you are unsure about sharing rental towels at the pool, spa, hostel, or gym (or at your friends' house…), bringing your own towel can provide some peace of mind. 

Reduced weight and more compact

Camp towels weigh less than traditional towels, which means they are easier to pack in luggage, a beach bag, or gym bag. I've taken to only using travel towels for showering at the gym because they take up less room.

Fast and efficient packing and unpacking

Since travel towels take less room in luggage than terry-cloth towels, they make organization easier when you're packing a lot of stuff. 

Versatility

Camp and travel towels can be used in all sorts of away-from-home situations. We've used our camp towels to dry off pets. We use them after a solar camp shower. We use camp towels to clean up spills. We throw them down as a picnic and beach blanket when we don't have a dedicated camping blanket. We use them to keep ourselves warm when we forget our camp blanket for use around a campfire. And as mentioned above, we use it as a yoga mat and even as a scarf for extra sun protection. 

Comfort

It's no fun being cold after a swim or hiking on a rainy day. Having a camp towel in the car can help you dry off before driving home. 

Durability

Camping towels are often more durable and stain-resistant than traditional terry-cloth towels. This means they can withstand dirt, sand, and getting tossed around outside better than other towels.

Easy maintenance

Because camping towels are more durable and easily washed and dried, they are lower maintenance than traditional towels.

Eco-friendliness

Using a reusable towel for washing hands or cleaning up spills for camp chores will create less waste than using single-use paper towels. 

What can you use quick-dry towels for

Camping: Quick-dry towels don't take up much room in your car on the way to the campsite and dry quickly, so you won't pack up wet towels for the drive home. You can use them for swimming or using showers at the campsite, even wiping off hands and feet or dog paws. It's handy to keep a few older ones around for spills, especially to minimize the need for paper towels. 

Travel: Many hostels around the world require you to pay extra for a towel. Some hotels won't let you take their indoor towels to the beach. As far as travel gear goes, having your own towel saves you some money, saves you from wondering who used the towel before you, and means you can take the towel where you want. 

Hiking: While hiking in Japan, I discovered that most people hike with towels around their neck. The reason is that the climate is humid in summer and having a towel means you can wick sweat and wipe off. Sweaty hikers and people who hike in moist climates sometimes hike with bandanas, but I find the camp towel is much more absorbent. 

Beach trips: If you have any sort of walk from your car to the beach, you know the pain of having to haul all the cooler, camp chairs, and all the towels with you. Quick-dry camp towels are packable and take up less space in the beach bag. 

Thick, indoor towels seem like they'd be great at the beach, but grains of sand get stuck in between the cotton or terry cloth and take a lot of washing to get out—usually getting sand all over the inside of your house and car in the process. Most camp towels are absorbent without the individual fibers found on indoor towels, which means less sand all over the space. 

Swimming: Ditto for swimming. If you have to walk to a swim competition, public pool, or lake, the more packable your stuff, the better. 

Gym workouts: Many gym go-ers love to have a towel to wipe off sweat and keep it off the machines. A quick dry towel is more absorbent than most towels and also takes up less real estate on the machine's handlebars, so you can bring a bigger, less thick towel. 

Yoga: I use camp towels exclusively as my yoga towel for hot yoga sessions. Between my mat, yoga towel, change of clothes, shower towel, toiletries, and water bottle, I feel like I need a mountaineering pack just to take a yoga session. Using packable towels has reduced the volume of the items I bring to the yoga studio with me. However, not all towels are equally grippy for yoga, so note which models are best suited for yoga and consider getting a dedicated yoga towel instead. 

Backpacking: Jumping in alpine lakes? Thru-hiking and taking advantage of showers at campsites along the way? Hiking along a cooling creek? It's surprising how even the smallest of towels can dry off an entire body. 

I also use quick-dry camp towels to wipe off condensation from my ultralight tent. 

Picnics: Camp towels can double as picnic blankets. Due to low-pile height, some models can even be better than traditional picnic blankets at not accumulating sand or dirt.

Sports activities: Camp towels can be great at sports events. After a super sweaty running event, for example, runners can get chilled easily. A packable towel doesn't take up a lot of space in your bag and can help the athlete warm up. We also recommend a towel as one of the items to keep in your drop bag in our How to Pace and Crew an Ultramarathon. It can also help wipe you down after an event. 

Road trips: Whether you're swimming, camping, or van-dwelling, packable towels take up little room in the car and dry quickly, so you don't have a sopping wet towel getting everything else wet.

Boating: If you're kayaking, packrafting, canoeing, or rafting, you'll want a towel with you that doesn't take up a lot of space in the boat. Even if you aren't bringing it on the boat, you're like bringing a lot of other gear so something lightweight and packable can minimize the volume of stuff you're carrying to the water. And, as mentioned above, travel towels often capture less sand than terry-cloth towels, so if you encounter sand while boating, they're less likely to make a mess.

Spa visits: Skip the towel fee and bring your own packable travel towel.

Home use for quick clean-ups or spills: I'm trying to move more towards reusable towels in my home life. While most of my camp towels are too nice for cleaning up spills, I keep around some older ones, like my Shamwow in my camp kit and also under the sink at home for spills and clean up.

What to look for in quick-dry towels

Material

We were surprised at the difference between camp towel materials. Some are soft and thin and others are plasticky, stiff, and thick or high-pile. We prefer materials with a nice feel on the hand, that dry quickly, and ideally, are made of eco-friendly materials.

Absorbency

For the most part, a towel's job is to absorb moisture. Whether it's helping you dry off after a swim or camp shower or cleaning up a spill in the camp kitchen, a towel should soak in as much water as possible. The exception would be if you're planning to use your camp towel as a picnic blanket. We think a waterproof camping blanket is a better bet, but we often use camp towels as picnic blankets. Just watch out if you're using a travel towel on wet grass!

Drying Time

Drying time is a major difference between a camping towel and a terry cloth or beach towel like you'd use at home. The bath towel we tested side-by-side with quick-dry towels took hours to dry, and came out feeling stiff after time on the laundry line (this often happens when I use too much laundry detergent for the load). Camping towels take as little as 15 minutes to dry and feel soft after a wash, even when I use too much detergent.

Size and weight

We prefer when brands have a variety of sizes of the same towel to give you options. Large towels can be used at the beach or as picnic blankets. The smallest towels can be used to wipe away sweat on a hiking trip or as a face or washcloth, as well as to clean up small spills in a camp kitchen.  

Larger towels will weigh more, so if you are backpacking or looking to reduce the weight of your luggage, opt for the smallest size travel towel that will get the job done for you.

Durability

We were impressed by the durability of the camp towels we tested. Over two summers, we shared the models we tested with teenagers at a summer camp. Not one of the models managed to get a hole or fray.  

Antimicrobial properties

Wet towel stink is the worst! Many of the quick-dry towels we tested come with anti-microbial anti-odor treatments. In general, however, the fact that quick-dry towels, well, dry quickly means there is less time for bacteria to grow in a moist environment than happens on terry-cloth cotton towels.

Portability

All travel towels are portable, but some are more compact. Additionally, many towels come with hooks or hanging loops. Some quick-dry towels come with travel cases or bags. 

Packability (comes with a carrying bag or strap)

I find camp towels to be more packable than cloth towels for use at the gym or if I'm slapping together gear in my trunk for a car camping trip. I usually just throw towels into my car in a ball, or sometimes I'll flatten them out.

Other people, especially vanlifers who are traveling, value the packability offered by the straps and carrying bags that come with some of the bags we tested. In general, I feel like the carrying bags are unnecessary packaging. But if you know you want a carrying case, look for ones that come with a stuff sack included.  

Comfort

As mentioned above, not all material on camp towels is the same. Some are just plain softer and plusher against the skin. We're biased towards the softer towels. 

Ease of maintenance

Because they are quick-drying, camping towels are much easier to maintain than bath towels. That's one reason I started using my outdoor towels for use at the gym. They just don't get as stinky as regular towels.

Quick-dry towels care and maintenance tips

As with towels, if they get wet, hang them up to dry. Don't ball them up or forget them in a bag if they are wet. Moisture can house bacteria, which can lead to odors and mold. Gross!

Most quick-dry towels can be washed in a laundry machine with regular detergent. If they start to get extra funky smelling, consider using a sport detergent.

Take care if you're using a quick-dry towel near a campfire, as most are made of materials that can melt and maybe aren't fire-resistant.

FAQ

• What is the difference between a camping towel and a regular bath towel?

  Camping towels are made from synthetic microfiber or natural fiber materials that absorb water quickly and dry in 15 to 30 minutes, compared to several hours for a standard cotton terry cloth towel. They also weigh a fraction of a bath towel and pack down to roughly the size of a water bottle. The trade-off is that most camping towels feel less plush against the skin, though softer options like the REI Multi-Towel Deluxe come close to a bath towel feel while still drying quickly.

• What size camping towel do I actually need?

  For backpacking, a small or medium towel in the 20 x 40 inch range is enough to dry off a full body and adds minimal weight. For camping, travel, or beach use, a larger body or beach size in the 30 x 60 inch range provides more coverage and doubles as a picnic blanket or beach layer. If modesty when changing is a priority, size up, since most camping towels are narrower than standard bath towels and wrapping one around your body takes more fabric than you might expect.

• Do camping towels get smelly over time?

  Microfiber camping towels can develop a persistent odor over time, particularly if they are stored while still damp or washed infrequently. The synthetic fibers that make them quick drying can also trap bacteria from sweat and body oils. Washing promptly after use, allowing the towel to dry fully before storing, and using a sport-specific detergent periodically are the most effective ways to prevent odor buildup. Natural fiber options like the Lava Linens hemp and TENCEL blend are less prone to this problem than synthetic microfiber.

• Are camping towels safe to use near a campfire?

  Most camping towels are made from polyester or nylon, both of which can melt or scorch when exposed to direct heat or embers. They should not be draped over camp chairs or placed on surfaces near an open fire. If you need a towel close to a campfire, the natural fiber Lava Linens models made from hemp and TENCEL are more heat-resistant than synthetic alternatives, though no camping towel is designed for direct flame exposure.

• Do camping towels shed microplastics?

  Most camping towels made from polyester or nylon microfiber shed microplastic particles when washed, which enter waterways through household drain systems. Using a microplastic-catching laundry bag like a Guppy Friend when washing synthetic towels captures a significant portion of shed fibers before they reach the drain. The Lava Linens hemp and TENCEL models are the only towels in this review that are completely free of synthetic microfibers, making them the most environmentally responsible choice for buyers concerned about microplastic pollution.

• Can I use a camping towel as a beach towel?

  Yes, though there are trade-offs compared to a traditional beach towel. The main advantages are faster drying time, easier packing, and less sand retention, since most camping towels have a low-pile surface that does not trap sand the way terry cloth does. The main disadvantage is coverage: most camping towels in body or large sizes are narrower than a standard beach towel, so spreading out fully on the sand requires buying a dedicated beach size. The Nomadix Original at 72 x 30 inches is the closest to a full beach towel in size among the models we tested.

How we researched and tested

We spent two years testing quick-dry towels. We used them while kayaking, swimming, fly fishing, and visiting the hot springs in the eastern Sierra, Montana, and Idaho. We used them as beach towels and to dry off at rivers, lakes, and the ocean. We handed them out to teenagers at a summer camp to use with their solar outdoor camp showers. We also used them daily to wash faces and dry off hands after going to the bathroom (instead of using home towels). 

To test their utility for camp chores, we used them in the camp kitchen to dry off dishes and clean up spills. 

I brought them in my carry-on luggage on more than 20 flights for use during travel.

In the off-season, I used them almost daily for showers at the gym and as a yoga towel and for drying off sweat at a hot yoga studio.  

Confirming and Testing Specs 

For "lab" testing, I washed all the towels together and measured dry time in the same conditions, temperature, sun exposure, and humidity. I tested absorbency by weighing towels before and after exposure to water, allowing each towel to soak up as much water as possible. 

In many cases, the amount of water sponged up was different from manufacturers' claims. However, for all practical real-world use case cases except cleaning up spills or repeated use while drying dishes, we found absorbency to be a less important criteria. 

• Used towels at rivers, lakes, and beaches
• Took them kayaking and fly fishing
• Tested them on camping and backpacking trips
• Used them for showers, yoga, and travel
• Cleaned dishes and camp spills

• Drying speed
• Absorbency and softness
• Weight and packability
• Size, design, and hanging features
• Microplastic shedding and impact

Why you should trust us / About the author

Liz Thomas is an award-winning Los Angeles-based writer and Editor-in-Chief of Treeline Review. A former Fastest Known Time (FKT) record holder on the Appalachian Trail, Liz came to Treeline Review from New York Times/Wirecutter, the New York Times’ product review site, where she was a staff writer on the outdoor team.

She was a guest editor at Backpacker Magazine, where she is currently the columnist of “Ask a Thru-hiker” and instructor of their online class, Thru-hiking 101.

Her first book is Long Trails: Mastering the Art of the Thru-hike. The book was the recipient of the National Outdoor Book Award for Best Instructional Book, and was deemed by judges as destined to become the “Bible of the Sport.”

She represented the sport of hiking at President Obama’s Great American Outdoors Initiative.

Liz’s keynote speaking engagements have included colleges and universities including Yale and MIT and on Capitol Hill, the Trust for Public Land, American Hiking Society, and BikeTexas.

You can read more about Liz at her website or on her wikipedia page. All her Treeline Review articles are on her author page.