Camping Directors Chairs

Folding Chair Director: A Smarter Seat for Camp Setup

A directors chair gives you more than just a place to sit. It’s sturdy, easy to fold flat, and the frame makes it easier to get in and out of after a long day. Many models also come with a side table for your drink, phone or dinner. That’s why the folding chair director design is a favourite at campsites, caravan parks and day trips.

At Outback Equipment, we stock directors camping chairs from Oztrail, Darche, Supex, NotLost, Black Wolf, Quest, CampBoss, Oztent and Front Runner. Some come with padded seats and storage pockets. Others pack down small or include a director camp chair with table for meals on the go. There’s something here for every setup.

Shop online today at Outback Equipment. We deliver across Australia and offer a range of chairs ready for camp season.

What Else Might You Need?

A good camp chair sets the tone, but there’s a few extras that can make your setup even better. These small add-ons help turn a basic campsite into a comfortable spot to spend the day. Browse gear that fits right alongside your new chair.

• Camping Tables – Handy if your chair doesn't have a side table or you're cooking outdoors. Great for meal prep or setting up gear.
• Camping Lanterns – If you're relaxing after dark, a soft light nearby makes reading or eating much easier.
• Camp Mats and Flooring – Helps keep your feet clean and stops the chair legs from sinking in.
• Coolers and Fridge/Freezers – Keep your drinks cold and snacks nearby while you relax in your chair.
• Awning – A bit of cover goes a long way in the sun or rain. Directors chairs work well under a 4WD or freestanding awning.

Why is it called a directors chair?

The name comes from the film world, where directors needed a chair that was quick to set up and easy to carry between locations. But the design goes way back, all the way to ancient Rome. It was inspired by the Curule chair, used by Roman leaders when issuing orders. The 15th-century version was known as a coffer-maker’s chair, with a similar folding frame and upright seat.

As movies grew in popularity, directors adopted this same style for its portability and comfort. Today, that design is still going strong, now found at campsites, festivals and outdoor setups across Australia.

What is the weight capacity of a directors chair?

Most directors chairs hold between 115kg and 150kg.

• 115kg: Both the Front Runner Expander Chairs (single and pair) are rated to 115kg.
• 150kg: The Oztent Gecko Chair and the Oztrail Cape Series Compact Directors Chair both support up to 150kg.
  Other models like the Darche DCT33, Darche Kozi, and NotLost Ultralite range between 120kg and 135kg.

What materials are used in these chairs?

Most frames are made from powder-coated steel or lightweight aluminium.

• Aluminium: These are more portable and easy to carry.
• Steel: Used in sturdier models like for added strength.

Seat materials are usually 600D polyester, with some using recycled canvas (Oztrail Cape Series) or PVC-coated fabric (CampBoss Drysdale) for extra durability.

Do any models come with a side table?

Yes, many director camp chairs include a side table with extra features.

• Includes side table: Oztrail Studio, CampBoss Drysdale, Darche DCT33, Darche Kozi, Supex Aluminium, NotLost Ultralite, Oztent Gecko, and OZtrail Classic all feature a folding side table.
• Some even have extras like built-in cup holders, tablet slots, or phone pockets