Sometimes, all you want after a good hike is a quick spot to sit down, take a break, and enjoy the scenery. This is where a small, portable stool comes in handy. It’s not about bringing a full-size camp chair but rather a lightweight, no-fuss option you can carry without even thinking about it. I’ve been using the Wanderer Lightweight Tripod Stool on some recent day trips and a few fishing excursions to see if it’s a worthy addition to a minimalist’s gear list. I wanted to see how it performed on uneven ground, how it held up to use, and whether its portability was truly a standout feature. Here’s my take after putting it to the test.
The good
- Extremely lightweight at 802 grams
- Folds and unfolds in seconds
- Handy carry strap for transport
- Powder-coated steel frame
- 90kg weight capacity
The not-so-good
- No storage bag included
- Can be wobbly on uneven ground
- Seat area can feel a bit small
What You’re Getting
A lightweight and portable tripod stool with a powder-coated steel frame and durable polyester fabric, featuring a 90kg weight capacity and convenient carry strap.
Quick Specs
If you’re ready to dive into the details, here are the key specs for this product. The table below gives you a clear and quick overview of everything you need to know.
| Spec | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Wanderer |
| Material | Powder-coated Steel Frame, Polyester Fabric |
| Open Dimensions | W33 x H42.5 cm |
| Packed Dimensions | L57 x W10 x H10 cm |
| Weight | 802g |
| Color | Black |
| Weight Capacity | 90 kg |
| Features | Carry strap, velcro strap for storage |
| Use Case | Camping, hiking, fishing, festivals |
First impressions
Taking the Wanderer Lightweight Tripod Stool out of the box, I was impressed by its simplicity and how light it felt in my hands. It was folded up neatly, held together by a simple velcro strap around the seat fabric. There was no bulky carry bag, just the stool itself with a handy carry strap already attached.
This made it feel very streamlined and ready for action straight away. Unfolding it was just as easy. A quick pull on the legs and it snapped into a stable tripod shape. The seat itself felt small, but that’s the trade-off for such a compact design. Overall, my initial thoughts were that this stool delivered on its promise of being lightweight and portable.
Materials & Build Quality
The frame of this tripod stool is a powder-coated steel, which gives it a feeling of sturdy construction while keeping the weight down. The powder coating is a nice touch, as it provides an extra layer of protection against rust and the elements. The seat is made from a durable polyester fabric, which feels tough enough to handle plenty of use. The stitching on the seat and where the fabric attaches to the legs appears robust and well-reinforced.
Each of the three legs is held together by rivets, which feel solid and show no sign of loosening. It’s certainly not a heavy-duty, over-engineered piece of gear, but for its intended purpose, the combination of steel and durable fabric seems well-suited to the demands of a casual outdoor setting. The carry strap is also of decent quality, feeling strong and comfortable enough for carrying over a shoulder for short distances.
Ergonomics & Weight
When you’re hiking or fishing, weight is always a key consideration, and the Wanderer Lightweight Tripod Stool is a definite winner in this category. Coming in at a confirmed 802 grams on my own scale, it’s truly a featherweight. The carry strap makes it incredibly easy to sling over a shoulder or attach to a backpack without any hassle. Unlike a full-size camp chair that takes up significant space and adds noticeable bulk, this stool just disappears in your gear. Its folded dimensions of 57 cm by 10 cm by 10 cm mean it can easily be stored in the car boot or tucked away at home without any fuss.
The stool itself has a surprising amount of stability on level ground, giving you a safe place to rest. However, as with most tripod stools, placing it on uneven surfaces, like rocks or a slight hill, can make it feel a bit wobbly. The seat height of 42.5 cm is a good balance between being low to the ground and high enough to be comfortable for most people.
Performance & Features
The main feature of the Wanderer Tripod Stool is its absolute simplicity and portability, and in this regard, it performs flawlessly. The stool unfolds in a couple of seconds, making it a perfect tool for quick breaks. Whether I was stopping to bait a hook by the water’s edge or just needed a quick seat while tying my shoelaces on the trail, this stool was ready instantly. The powder-coated steel frame gives a reassuring stiffness, handling its 90kg weight capacity without any issues.
While the polyester seat is on the small side, it provides enough support for a quick rest. The carry strap is a simple but effective feature that I use to carry or hang it around camp. It makes the stool so easy to transport, and its light weight means you barely notice it on your shoulder. Overall, it’s a no-frills tool that does exactly what it’s supposed to do, and it does it well.
Gear That Complements Your Camping Setup
To make your outdoor trips even better, why not check out some of our other reviews? Some quality 4WD storage solutions are essential to carry gear and a small stool like this. Or perhaps you’re interested in our reviews of navigation tools to help you navigate trickier trails. For those longer trips, a reliable tent is an absolute must, so make sure you check out our reviews to find the best one for you.
For a portable seating solution, the Wanderer Lightweight Tripod Stool is a superb choice.
It delivers on its promise of being light and easy to carry, thanks to its minimalist design and convenient carry strap. The stool’s steel frame and durable polyester fabric make it feel sturdy enough for most casual outings, and it sets up in just a few seconds. While it doesn’t have the luxurious comfort of a full-size chair, that's not its purpose. This stool excels at providing a quick, convenient, and reliable place to rest your legs without adding any significant bulk to your gear. It’s an ideal piece of kit for anyone who values mobility and simplicity.
The Wanderer Lightweight Tripod Stool is best for hikers, fishers, and festival-goers who need a compact, low-profile seat. It's not a luxury item, but it's perfect for those quick breaks when you just need to get off your feet for a few minutes. Its lightweight design and easy portability make it an ideal choice for anyone who wants a dependable and convenient seating option without a lot of weight or fuss.
For the price, the Wanderer Lightweight Tripod Stool offers excellent value. It provides a simple yet effective solution for portable seating, and its robust construction and high weight capacity make it a durable choice for a variety of users. While it doesn't have a carry bag, the integrated carry strap is an efficient alternative. It's a fantastic, affordable option that performs well, making it a worthwhile purchase for anyone needing a lightweight seat on the go.
