Overall Results

The right camping chair for you really depends on your needs, your budget and the type of trips you plan to take. If you're a backpacker or bikepacker who needs to save weight and space, you'll want a compact, ultra-lightweight model like the Helinox Chair One. If you're buying for car camping or simply relaxing in the backyard, a larger, more feature-heavy chair with a higher weight capacity and cup holders will likely suit you perfectly.

Still not sure which Camping Chair to choose?

Take a look at each of our detailed camping chair reviews linked above to get a clearer picture of their comfort and durability in real conditions. If you're stuck between a few favourites, feel free to reach out. We're always happy to help you pick the right chair for your next adventure

Camping Chair FAQs 

1. How much weight can a typical camping chair actually hold? - Most standard camping chairs are rated for around 113 to 136kg, but it's a good idea to always check the specific product's weight capacity. If you need more support, look for ‘big and tall’ or heavy-duty models, which are often built with stronger frames and fabrics and can hold 180kg or even more.

2. What's the real difference between a cheap chair and an expensive one? - You're mostly paying for three things: better materials, lighter weight and a smarter design. A cheap chair might be fine for occasional backyard use, but it will likely be heavier, bulkier and use weaker joints and thinner fabric. An expensive chair from a reputable brand will typically be much lighter to carry, use higher-quality, durable materials that won't sag or rip and have a more robust frame that will last for many seasons.

3. Are those super compact and lightweight backpacking chairs worth it? - If you're hiking any distance and every gram matters, then absolutely. They provide a luxury of comfort in the backcountry that you can't get from sitting on a log or the ground. For car camping, their high cost and smaller size might not be necessary, as a larger, more feature-filled chair would be more comfortable for the same price.

4. Why are some camping chairs so low to the ground? - Chairs that sit lower, often called ‘low-profile’ chairs, are generally more stable, especially in windy conditions, because they have a lower centre of gravity. They can be more comfortable for just lounging, but they can be difficult to get in and out of, particularly for people with knee or mobility issues.

5. What should I look for in a camping chair for a bigger person? - The most important thing is to look for a chair specifically marketed as ‘heavy-duty,’ ‘big and tall,’ or ‘oversized.’ Don't just rely on the weight limit; also check the chair's physical dimensions to make sure it has a wider seat and taller back. These models are built with a stronger frame, reinforced stitching and tougher fabric to provide safety and comfort.

6. My camping chair sinks into the grass or sand. How can I stop this? - This is a common problem on soft ground. The simplest solution is to look for chairs that come with or allow you to buy larger, wider foot attachments. These are often plastic discs or wider ‘feet’ that attach to the bottom of the chair legs, distributing the weight over a larger area so they don't sink in as easily.

7. Can I really repair a broken camping chair or should I get a new one? - Many common issues are totally repairable. If a pole snaps, you can often order a replacement part directly from the manufacturer. For fabric tears, a strong patch and some heavy-duty thread or a sewing machine can fix it. For smaller holes or broken plastic components, a strong repair tape can get you through the rest of a trip.

8. What extra features are actually useful on a camping chair? - Beyond a basic seat, the most appreciated features are a cup holder to keep your drink secure, a side pocket for storing a phone or book and a carry bag with shoulder straps for easier transport. Some higher-end chairs also offer features like adjustable headrests, reclining backs, or removable lumbar support pillows for more comfort.

Afterword

We hope you liked our review of the best camping chairs in Australia. After all our research we think at the end of the day there are plenty of great options that can suit your individual needs. In the process of deciding what is best for you we suggest thinking about what you want it for (e.g. primarily relaxing in comfort, eating or an allrounder) and how much storage space you have. If you would like us to review a product or have any feedback we’d love to hear from you, feel free to drop us a note.

About Our Testing Process

Here at The Equipment Guide we write reviews for Australians with the goal of providing a genuine personal assessment of the best products on the market right here at home.

All products are reviewed and ranked in a methodical and careful manner and we assess them on relevant key features. We do not accept free products from manufacturers.

Our mission is simple: To create Australia’s best outdoor gear reviews.