Kmart's $55 version of controversial beach item gets rave reviews from shoppers

Love them or hate them, cabanas have become a common sight on the Australian coast each summer, prompting many to buy their own beach shelters.

There are plenty of options to choose from ranging from more expensive options to more budget-friendly versions.

After finding her current cabana a bit cumbersome to transport to the beach, one woman asked what people thought about Kmart's 1.7m cabana in the Kmart Mums Australia Facebook group.

READ MORE: 'I need these': New range has The Reject Shoppers in a frenzy

"Hi. Can anyone provide feedback on these. I have a Coconut Grove one from Anaconda but it is so bulky to carry in my small car. How long is the carry bag?" she asked.

The question prompted dozens of Kmart shoppers to share their experiences with the product, which overwhelming seem to be positive.

"I got one the other day for a spur of the moment beach trip and can't fault it. Im looking at another as I have 4 kids and just want bit more shade for them," a mum said.

"I've had one for probably about three years now still going strong. Easy to set up and pack down yourself too," a woman commented.

READ MORE: 'Why does it feel wrong?': Pantry makeover transforms kitchen

"We used ours over Christmas, it was sturdy, great quality, super easy to assemble and lightweight to carry. It allowed us to stay at the beach longer than we normally would have if we had to sit in the full sun. Well worth it," another said.

"Another hugely positive review here too! We have had ours for 3 years now, so easy to put up/down/carry (our kids do it). Highly highly recommend," a shopper posted.

There were comparisons to the original CoolCabana in the post including one who preferred it but only for one situation.

"We love these. Have 2 for the backyard to give shade for the kids. The cool cabanas can't be beaten at the beach. They are made so well and can handle the wind. The supports in this are not as flexible," they said.

The Kmart cabanas come in 1.7m and 1.9m sizes and cost $55 and $79, respectively.

There are currently two designs in the 1.7m size; a bluey green tropical leaf print and a striped design in blue and white.

The 1.9m cabana meanwhile, is a "natural" design with a beige cover and white fringing around the top edges.

Beach cabanas were already controversial for blocking the view of the ocean for others sitting behind and beside the large structures, but now some people are furious that they're being used to reserve space at the beach.

The new debate erupted on a Mornington Peninsula online community page, where it was revealed that some people set them up early and head off to finish up a few tasks before settling down to enjoy their prime position later on.

READ MORE: We review one of the most expensive robot vacuums on the market

It's a heated topic that has divided the nation but according to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese "it's not on".

"One of the great things about Australia unlike some parts of the world, you go and you got to pay to go to the beach. Here, everyone owns the beach and it's a place where everyone is equal and that's a breach of that principle," he told the Today show when asked during a live interview.

FOLLOW US ON WHATSAPP HERE: Stay across all the latest in celebrity, lifestyle and opinion via our WhatsApp channel. No comments, no algorithm and nobody can see your private details.