A Budget Chair That Overdelivers
The Moon Lence Backpacking Chair has quietly become one of the most popular ultralight camp chairs on Amazon—and for good reason. With a sub-£40 price tag, a 900g weight, and a surprisingly comfortable bucket seat, it’s a compelling alternative to premium models from Helinox, Big Agnes, and REI.
But is it just a cheap knockoff, or does it actually hold up on the trail? We tested the Moon Lence chair across campsites, hilltops, and vanlife setups to see how it performs in real-world conditions.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Weight | 907g (2 lbs) |
| Packed Size | 34 x 12 cm (13.4 x 4.7 in) |
| Unfolded Dimensions | 50 x 63 x 67 cm (W x L x H) |
| Seat Height | 23 cm (9 in) from ground |
| Weight Capacity | 110–181 kg (242–400 lbs, depending on source) |
| Frame Material | 7075 aluminium alloy |
| Fabric | 600D or 900D Oxford cloth + mesh panels |
| Extras | Carry bag, side pockets, reinforced stitching |
| Price | £30–£40 (varies by retailer) |
Design and Build Quality
The Moon Lence chair uses a shock-corded aluminium frame similar to high-end models. The poles snap together automatically, and the seat fabric stretches over the frame with reinforced corner pockets.
The seat material is a mix of Oxford cloth and breathable mesh, with reinforced stitching at stress points. The frame is made from 7075 aluminium, which is both lightweight and strong.
The latest version features:
- A square base for improved stability
- Anti-slip feet for better grip on uneven ground
- Side mesh pockets for small items like phones or snacks
- A carry bag that doubles as a storage pouch when attached to the frame
Overall, the build quality is impressive for the price. It doesn’t feel flimsy, and the materials are on par with chairs costing twice as much.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Despite its budget price, the Moon Lence chair is surprisingly comfortable. The bucket seat design cradles your hips and back, and the seat width (21 inches) accommodates a range of body types.
What We Liked:
- High backrest supports mid-shoulder blades
- Deep seat allows for relaxed lounging
- Mesh panels improve airflow in warm weather
- Side pockets are handy for storing small items
What Could Be Better:
- The recline angle is a bit too laid-back for upright sitting
- Seat height is low, which may be difficult for taller users or those with knee issues
- No headrest—though this is typical for chairs in this category
In short, it’s not a luxury lounger, but for a sub-£40 ultralight chair, it’s more than adequate for evenings around the fire or trailhead lunches.
Setup and Portability
Setting up the Moon Lence chair takes under a minute:
- Shake out the shock-corded frame and let it snap into shape
- Slide the seat fabric over the four corner poles
- Sit back and relax
The carry bag is compact and fits easily into a backpack or pannier. At just 907g, it’s light enough for:
- Bikepacking
- Wild camping
- Festival weekends
- Vanlife setups
It’s not the lightest chair on the market (Helinox Chair Zero is ~500g), but it’s one of the best in its price-to-weight class.
Durability and Long-Term Use
After months of use, the Moon Lence chair shows minimal signs of wear. The Oxford cloth resists abrasion, and the frame remains solid with no bent poles or broken joints.
That said, some users report:
- Fraying at the seams after extended use
- Plastic joints loosening over time
- Feet sinking into soft ground (a common issue with narrow legs)
For best results:
- Use a groundsheet or mat on soft terrain
- Avoid exceeding the 110–120 kg weight range
- Store the chair dry to prevent mildew
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value for money
- Lightweight and compact
- Comfortable bucket seat
- Easy to set up and pack down
- Side pockets and carry bag included
- Durable frame and fabric for the price
Cons:
- Low seat height may be hard for some users
- Slightly reclined posture
- Not as compact or light as premium ultralight chairs
- Durability may not match Helinox or Big Agnes over years of use
Comparison: Moon Lence vs Helinox Chair One
| Feature | Moon Lence Chair | Helinox Chair One |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 907g | 960g |
| Packed Size | 34 x 12 cm | 35 x 10 cm |
| Weight Capacity | 110–181 kg | 145 kg |
| Price (UK) | £30–£40 | £90–£110 |
| Warranty | None | 5 years |
The Moon Lence offers 80% of the performance at 30% of the price, making it a great choice for budget-conscious campers. The Helinox wins on refinement, warranty, and long-term durability.
Ideal Use Cases
The Moon Lence Backpacking Chair is perfect for:
- Budget-conscious campers
- Bikepackers and wild campers
- Festival goers and vanlifers
- Anyone who wants a compact, comfy seat without spending a fortune
It’s less ideal for:
- Ultralight backpackers counting every gram
- Heavier users over 110–120 kg
- People with mobility issues who need a higher seat
Final Verdict: Is the Moon Lence Chair Worth It?
The Moon Lence Backpacking Chair punches well above its weight—and price. It’s not the lightest or most durable chair on the market, but it’s comfortable, compact, and affordable, making it one of the best value options for casual campers and weekend adventurers.
If you’re looking for a reliable camp chair under £40, this is one of the best buys of 2025.
Rating: 8.8/10 Best for: Budget campers, bikepackers, and festival goers Avoid if: You need ultralight gear or long-term durability
