- Weight:1.46 kg
- Seat height: 30.4 cm
- Maximum Load: 136kg (21.4 stone)
Following a hugely successful Kickstarter campaign in 2023 (allegedly over 14,000 backers), this new version of the formerly tripod style lightweight foldaway backpacking chair (simply called the Campster) has been born – now featuring an infinitely more stable four leg design.
On first glance it is very much like Helinox’s Chair Zero, both in number of legs and packed size – this one also folds down to 35cm, similar in size to a 1.5l waterbottle. It is also easy to put up (they claim five seconds fold out time, which I found impossible, but it was straightforward). So you might be wondering how they managed to do it at a not insignificantly £35 cheaper price point.
Firstly it should be pointed out that it’s heavier – by a whole kilogram, which if you’re camping with the car won’t be a dealbreaker, but for backpackers looking to shave off as much weight as possible, this might just (pardon the pun) tip the scales in favour of its Helinox rival.
If you’re after comfort over grams, and/or a taller or heavier camper, however, then the Campster II is for you. Not only does it have a higher seat height (so easier to get in and out of) and can take an additional three stone, but also comes with some fairly luxe add-ons (additional price – and weight of course) including a snuggly fleece seat warmer – I’d skip the free-hanging bottle holder.
It has two side pockets which I felt a tad unnecessary given that using just one effects the stability. But, overall, a decent compact option for those wanting comfort and portability.
