One of my favourite childhood memories of camping as a child is sitting around the campfire with family. How much more comfortable would we all have been with a camping chair each.
If there is one luxury item that can drastically improve your camping experience it’s a comfortable camping chair. Whether you’re sitting around the campsite relaxing or having a drink or two with friends after a big day, a great camping chair can make all the difference.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through exactly what to look for in choosing the best camping chair for you and your family.
Click here to see my choice of the most comfortable camping chair in Australia
Best Camping Chair Australia 2023 Comparison Guide
Here is a comparison table to help you to select the most appropriate camping chair for your needs. Use the table to compare the various chair types and features and if you would like to read more information about a product or check the current price, click on the name of the chair.
ACCURACY
CONNECTIVITY
Headrest
Sturdy design
On the heavy side (6kg)
ACCURACY
CONNECTIVITY
Weight: 6kg
Capacity: 150kg
Sliding side table
Carry cover included
Large chair not easy to transport
ACCURACY
CONNECTIVITY
Weight: 8.5kg
Capacity: 120kg
Budget-friendly heavy duty camping chair
Integrated bottle opener
ACCURACY
CONNECTIVITY
Weight: 4.35kg
Capacity: 200kg
Built-in cooler bag
Drink holder
Heavier than similar quad-fold chairs
ACCURACY
CONNECTIVITY
Weight: 7kg
Capacity: 150kg
ACCURACY
CONNECTIVITY
Strong aluminium tube frame
Padded armrests
Doesn’t include a carry bag
ACCURACY
CONNECTIVITY
Weight: 3.5kg
Capacity: 120kg
Fold-out side table
Folds down neatly
ACCURACY
CONNECTIVITY
Weight: 3.35kg
Capacity: 135kg
Ultra-compact design
Strong and durable stitching
Chair feet not suited to soft surfaces
ACCURACY
CONNECTIVITY
Weight: 953g
Capacity: 135kg
Comfy padded seat
Quick and easy to set up and pack up
ACCURACY
CONNECTIVITY
Weight: 6.5kg
Capacity: 240kg
How to Choose the Best Camping Chair for your needs: Buyers Guide
For a fairly simple invention, you would expect that choosing an outdoor camping chair that meets your needs would be simple. However, there are many different types and options on the market to consider.
Chair Types
The first main consideration when choosing a camping chair is the type that best suits you. There are four main categories of folding camping chairs for sale and below is an overview of each.
Quad Fold Chairs
Quad fold camping chairs are the most popular options for many people as they are generally more lightweight, compact and cheaper than other types of camping chairs.
As the name suggests, the four legs of the camping chair fold up neatly and once folded, take up very little room in your vehicle.
One trade off to the portability of the quad fold chair is that they tend to be less comfortable than other types of camping chairs.
Director Chairs
Director camping chairs are typically stronger and more sturdy than quad fold types. The seating position in a directors chair is much more upright, which is a positive for those requiring a chair with back support.
Directors chairs often come with a fixed side table and drink holder making them a popular choice for caravan campers.
One disadvantage of directors chairs is that they aren’t as compact as quad fold chairs. A Directors chair folds flat, which may not suit those needing to carry it a distance. However, a flat folding chair could be easier to store in your vehicle depending on the layout of the storage area.
Flat Folding Camping Chairs
If you want to treat yourself to a camping chair that is ultra-luxurious, then a flat fold chair with all the modern conveniences is for you. These chairs often come with features such as multiple recline positions, cooler bags and side tables to name a few.
A flat fold chair is much like a directors chair in that it folds into itself, making it easy to transport in your vehicle. The main difference is that fold up chairs tend to be heavier which is not great if you plan on carrying them any distance.
The flip side of all the great features is that these camping chairs are the more expensive options on the market. So, if you’ve got the funds to purchase a super comfortable camping chair and don’t intend on carrying it far, a flat fold is the ultimate!
Other Chair Types
- Lounge / Double Camping Chairs – These types of chairs are great for couples and families. You can fit two adults on the one chair and most work like a quad fold or flat fold chair. When shopping for the best double camping chair, look for a sturdy design.
- Ground Chairs – Sometimes described as camping stools, these chairs are great if you’re backpacking to a campsite or have limited storage in your vehicle. Ground chairs are small and lightweight but aren’t the most comfortable option for sitting for long periods of time.
Size, Weight and Portability
The next thing to consider is the size and weight of the camping chair when folded. The dimensions of the folded chair are important in terms of how and where you plan on transporting it.
If you mainly plan on transporting the chair to the campsite next to your car or caravan then the size and weight may not be an issue. On the other hand, if you plan on carrying the chairs any distance a lightweight camping chair may be preferred over big and bulky types.
As you are researching the various camping chair models on the market, do consider that you will need more space in your vehicle to transport them. However, there are several lightweight camping chair options which whilst may not be quite as comfortable as the heavier alternatives are a good option when carrying any distance.
Drink holder attachment
Value
You don’t have to spend a fortune to get a decent camping chair, but you get what you pay for as with most things in life. Spending a little extra with often get you a more comfortable, durable and longer-lasting camping char.
Comfort
Let’s be honest, what is the point of buying a camping chair if it’s not comfortable? You want to choose a camping chair that you can sit in and relax all day or potentially fall asleep in after a big day hiking.
If you need a portable camping chair like a stool or compact folding chair then there will be a reduced level of comfort when compared to the padded reclining models. The level of comfort that you need will likely be determined by the amount of space you have to transport them and the higher cost of the reclining chairs.
Build Quality and Durability
The two main things to look for when selecting a camping chair is the sturdiness of the frame and the material or fabric used to cover the frame.
If you only go camping occasionally then you will get away with selecting a cheaper camping chair option with the expectation that they may not last as long as the more expensive versions.
On the other hand, if you’re a regular camper and are prepared to invest in a more durable and chair with extra comfort, it will be a worthwhile investment. Not only will the chair be stronger and more durable, but more expensive models are easier to clean and will last for years to come.
Other Features to Consider
- Padded seat: A camping chair with more padding is going to be more comfortable and may offer better lumbar support. They can take longer to dry when they get wet though.
- Headrest: A headrest can offer additional comfort and support. Some models are adjustable.
- Side table: Don’t underestimate the convenience of a side table to enhance your camping experience. While many chairs come with a cup holder, a side table is more stable.
Best Camping Chair Reviews Australia 2023
OzTent Burke Chair Review
Rating: 4.0
Specifications:
- Type: Quad-fold
- Weight: 6kg
- Capacity: 150kg
- Material/Fabric: Fully padded seat and back
If you’re looking for a padded camping chair that you can spend hours in at a time, the OzTent Burke camping chair is a tried and tested mid to high range option.
Weighing in at 6kg, this chair is suited to car campers and caravaners who are looking for a comfortable and supportive camping chair with adjustable lumbar support to help you relax every time.
The heavy-duty steel frame with front strut supports makes this chair a great choice for campers concerned about finding a camping chair that will hold their weight. These features mean that the chair can support up to 150kg, giving you peace of mind that you can sit back in comfort (with no injuries).
Other features include an insulated drink holder for easy access to your next cold drink and the carry bag is stored in the headrest creating extra padding. It also comes with a covered accessory pocket to keep your phone safe.
This is a terrific all-round camping chair, designed for comfort with full padding and lumbar support making it one of the best camping chairs on the market.
Dune Nomad II Deluxe XL Chair Review
Rating: 4.5
Specifications:
- Type: Flat Fold
- Weight: 8.5kg
- Capacity: 120kg
- Material/Fabric: Fully padded seat and back
Now we’re getting into the super comfortable reclining flat fold chairs, and the Dune Nomad II Deluxe chair is a really popular choice. How would you like to laze away the afternoon with an impressive 8 reclining positions to choose from? With its hard-wearing neoprene padded polyester material, this chair is built to be both durable and comfortable at the same time.
The chair is made of durable materials including a powder coated steel frame and supportive moulded PVC armrests. This strength does come at the cost of the additional weight of the chair at 8.5kg but can support up to 120kg. It also comes with a compact fold away side table with a drink holder, perfect for easy access to your favourite snack or drinks.
If you’re prepared to sacrifice some portability for a bit more comfort, then the OzTrail Emperor could be a great choice for you.
Oztrail Getaway Deluxe Chair Review
Rating: 4.0
Specifications:
- Type: Quad-fold
- Weight: 4.35kg
- Capacity: 200kg
- Material/Fabric: Fully padded seat and back
OZtrail has a great reputation for making comfortable and affordable camping furniture in Australia and it’s easy to see why with the Getaway Deluxe camping chair. This chair is generously sized, value for money and packs down neatly for easy transportation.
Although this camping chair weighs only 4.35kg, the steel frame and front cross leg support system can support up to a maximum weight capacity of 200kg giving you peace of mind as you’re relaxing.
This budget camping chair features a large padded seat and insulated cooler so you don’t even need to get up to enjoy another cold drink. Some reviewers have reported that the mesh drink holder can be unstable when filled, so this chair is better suited to those drinking from cans and bottles.
In general, this chair is one of the best value for money camping chairs for sale in Australia offering comfort, support and modern convenience for your next camping trip.
Burke & Wills Simpson Deluxe Chair Review
Rating: 3.5
Specifications:
- Type: Quad-fold
- Weight: 7kg
- Capacity: 150kg
- Material/Fabric: Fully padded seat and back
The Burke & Wills Simpson Deluxe Chair is another example of a comfortable seat suitable for all sizes of people.
This camping chair is heavier than similar quad-fold types weighing 7kg but has a strong and durable folding frame that has a 150kg weight capacity. The Burke & Wills Simpson Deluxe chair has been designed to be comfy but tough, with a cross brace powder-coated steel frame.
Additional features of this chair include a drink holder fitted into the armrest an insulated cooler bag to keep your drinks cold. The included carry bag is strong and good quality making this folding chair easy to transport on your next outdoor adventure.
Dune 4WD Directors Chair Review
Rating: 4.0
Specifications:
- Type: Directors
- Weight: 3.5kg
- Capacity: 120kg
- Material/Fabric: Fully padded seat and back
The Dune 4WD Directors is a great option for campers looking for a chair with a comfortable upright seating position with a strong, sturdy and comfortable chair.
The chair is designed to fold up easily and features a lightweight aluminium tube frame, foam padded armrests, 600D polyester fabric and a comfortable backrest. It is very lightweight for a directors chair, weighing only 3.5kg and has a weight rating of 120kg. Another great feature is the handy fold-away side table, perfect for a drink and some nibbles in the afternoon!
If you’re looking for a light and reasonably priced chair that offers, comfort, support and many good features, this chair will serve you well for many camping trips.
Coleman Portable Directors Chair with Side Table Review
Rating: 4.0
Specifications:
- Type: Directors
- Weight: 3.35kg
- Capacity: 135kg
- Material/Fabric: Fully padded seat and back
Coleman camping chairs are built tough for Australian conditions, and this directors chair model is no exception.
The standout feature of this chair is how sturdy it is for the modest weight of 3.35kg. Capable of holding up to 120kg this chair is suitable for campers of all shapes and sizes.
It includes a fold-out side table with an integrated drink holder, and well-padded polyester fabric high back and armrests.
If you’re in the market for a stable chair that you can securely sit back in and rest assured that you won’t end up on the ground, then the Coleman Directors chair could be a great choice.
Trekology Yizi Go Chair Review
Rating: 4.0
Specifications:
- Type: Ground
- Weight: 953g
- Capacity: 135kg
- Material/Fabric: Aluminium / Nylon fabric
If you’re a little short on space for your next trip, the Trekology Yizi Go Chair offers an ultra-compact and lightweight solution. These chairs are second to none for their unique high strength and comfort that weighs only 953g and packs up into a carry case of 35cm in length.
The sections of the chair frame are linked together with an elastic shock cord for easy assembly. This creates a chair that will mould itself to the contours of your body as you sit in it.
Another great attribute of these chairs is that you can purchase additional accessories to suit the camping conditions you’re heading into. For beach goers, this sand cover attaches to the base of the Yizi Go chair to prevent it from sinking into the sand.
The extreme portability of this chair makes it a great option for not only campers but anyone from cyclists, kayakers, motorcyclists and outdoor adventurers across Australia.
Spinifex Comfort Series 2 Seater Sofa Review
Rating: 4.0
Specifications:
- Type: Double Lounge
- Weight: 6.5kg
- Capacity: 240kg
- Material/Fabric: Fully padded seat and back
Sometimes life is just better with your favourite person sitting by your side! Why should you have to sit apart from your family when you go camping? With the Spinifex Comfort Series 2 seater chair you can lounge away together in style. This double seat camping chair is a great choice for couples and families that want all the comforts of a couch but in the outdoors.
Although this particular chair does not have a dedicated cup holder, the side pocket can be used to store your possessions and some users have used it to store their drinks. Children will also love being able to cuddle up with mum or dad and get comfortable.
The Spinifex Comfort Series chair is also fairly lightweight for its size at only 6.5kg but has a weight capacity of up to 240kg (120kg per side).
The double folding design is similar to the quad fold types mentioned earlier but just double the width!
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do camping chairs cost?
The price of a camping chair can range from $25 to $250, depending on the style, manufacturer, and retailer you choose. The amount that you decide to spend on a camping chair will largely depend on how often you plan on using it.
The list above includes a good range of comfortable camp chairs. Be sure that you buy a chair that is in the range of your budget.
