19 Must Have Backpack Beach Chair Choices for Summer 2024

LOOKING FOR A HIGH-QUALITY BACKPACK BEACH CHAIR?

You’ve come to the right place. Our favorite vacation is a beach vacation! We have been visiting beaches around the country together since 2010 and know how nice it is to have your hands free when getting out to the beach because you have a backpack beach chair!

It seems like we always take way too much out to the beach, whether it be snacks, drinks, toys, chairs, or an umbrella. Unlike a traditional beach chair, a backpack beach chair is designed for convenient transportability; you just strap it to your back, and your hands are free to carry the rest of your gear! 

Maybe you’re looking for something luxurious like a backpack beach chair with a footrest for long lounges on beautiful days. Or, as an avid outdoor adventurer, you may be after something lightweight and practical. Either way, our backpack beach chair guide will help direct you toward the perfect chair for your needs! 

Quick Guide: Backpack Beach Chair

Backpack Beach Chair with Cooler

1. Homevative Folding Backpack Beach Chair

Homevative Folding Backpack Beach Chair is a compact and convenient backpack beach chair with a cup holder. It also includes some amazing storage areas for personal items, as well as a cooler pouch. Not to mention five different reclining positions for optimal comfort, even including an entirely flat option. 

This chair is easily transported hands-free thanks to the padded backpack straps. Perfect for road trips to the beach, this chair folds up nicely and barely takes up any room in the trunk! 

▶️ SHOP Homevative Folding Backpack Beach Chair

2. Kelsyus Premium Outdoor Chair (2 Pack) 

The Kelsyus Premium Outdoor Chair may appear more like a camping chair, but it’s also an amazing option for the beach if you’re in need of some portable shade. When you’re ready to pack up, the overhead shade comes off and acts as a case of sorts for the chair

This chair provides a solid frame that will stand the test of time but also has the weight to prove it. At 24 lbs, this is one of the heaviest chairs on our list. Transport is made that much more difficult by the fact that this chair only has one carrying strap, as opposed to the full backpack model.  

This particular chair is a good option to consider for families who are looking to purchase more than one chair, as it’s available in a double pack. 

▶️ SHOP Kelsyus Premium Portable Camping Folding Outdoor Lawn Chair

3. PORTAL Backpack Cooler Chair

Star Rating: 3 out of 5 Stars 
Dimensions: 13 x 12.5 x 29.5
Weight: 5 lbs. 
Number of Reclining Positions: N/A 
Weight Capacity: 225 lbs. 
Materials: Alloy Steel, Polyester

PORTAL Backpack Cooler Chair is one of our favorite beach chair backpacks with a cooler option. The cooler portion of the chair consists of a soft insulated bag. It’s a very convenient feature to have, perfect for storing cold drinks and some snacks while enjoying some time at the beach. 

The chair itself isn’t much to look at. It’s small and resembles a standard folding chair. alloy steel frame has been treated with a powder coating that enhances the frame to provide a more secure and long-lasting product. 

Like most folding chairs, it isn’t overly comfortable. It’s a great option for easy portability and quick setup, but it’s not one we love for extended sitting or lounging. 

▶️ SHOP PORTAL Backpack Cooler Chair

4. Dowinx Beach Chair with Cooler Bag

Dowinx Beach Chair with Cooler Bag is a very comfortable oversized beach chair. The ample room provided by the oversized seat and backrest makes it a wonderful choice to have in your beach chair collection. 

The extra space isn’t the only special feature that aids comfort when it comes to this chair. With a three-position recline, this chair is perfect for full upright support or laidback naps. Not to mention the adjustable headrest for the utmost comfort! 

Our favorite thing about this chair is that no matter how or where you’re sitting, temperature control is also managed. With a breathable polyester weave, this chair won’t be stifling on hot summer days at the beach. Especially thanks to the detachable cooler beach tote and built-in cupholder for cold drinks. 

▶️ SHOP Dowinx Beach Chair with Cooler Bag

Backpack Beach Chair with Canopy 

5. GCI Outdoor Waterside SunShade Backpack Beach Chair

GCI Outdoor Waterside SunShade Backpack Beach Chair is the best beach chair with a shade that we came across. Perfect for moments on the beach when you need to take a moment to recharge, the sunshade provides excellent sun protection. We also love the reclining backrest, especially because it has four different settings to provide just the right position. 

This chair is sturdy and built to last, but also a wonder to transport, thanks to the backpack straps. It folds flat for easy storage and has a spacious pocket for storing all your small beach essentials. 

A mesh-backed chair will always win in our book for the breathable experience it provides. The material, along with the head pillow and cupholder, make this one of our favorite chairs on this list. 

▶️ SHOP GCI Outdoor Waterside SunShade Backpack Beach Chair

Backpack Beach Chair with Storage 

6. Coleman Utopia Breeze Beach Chair

Did you know that beach chairs are often categorized based on their height? Coleman Utopia Breeze Beach Chair is an excellent choice for shoppers looking specifically for a low beach chair. 

We love the lightweight and colorful presentation this chair offers. If your beach daydreams including stretching out in peace and comfort but never letting your feet leave the water, this is the chair for you. 

Aside from the seatback pocket and small cupholder, this chair does not have any impressive features. It’s simple but comfortable, well-crafted, and very affordable in comparison to some of the other chairs on this list. 

▶️ SHOP Coleman Utopia Breeze Beach Chair

7. Tommy Bahama Beach Chair, Multi-Color

The Tommy Bahama Backpack Beach Chair line is clearly the brand to beat in this area of beach accessories. The brand has mastered the beach basics as a beloved fan favorite. The Tommy Bahama Beach Chair, Multi Color is a great addition to your beach day arsenal. 

An aluminum frame gives the chair both a lightweight but also sturdy foundation, topped with a colorful polyester print. It’s functional and fun, a chair your whole family will love. 

Depending on the exact model you choose, the chair may include an insulated storage area for beverages or just a standard storage pocket. The 5-position recline offers a wide range of comfortable positions, including lying all the way down flat. 

▶️ SHOP Tommy Bahama Beach Chair, Multi Color

8. RIO BEACH 4-Position Lace-Up Backpack Folding Beach Chair

RIO BEACH 4-Position Lace-Up Backpack Folding Beach Chair is one of the most unique chairs on our list. There’s only so much variety you can expect when shopping for beach chairs, but this one definitely stands apart. 

This chair boasts an aluminum frame which we’ve come to expect in this type of chair, but it also features a lace-up support system. The lace-up feature is designed to provide more specific support to the user based on their body contours. 

This is a cool feature, but it has mixed reviews. A great and enjoyable feature for some, the lace-up setup can be quite uncomfortable for others. The chair also includes a large storage pocket, cup holder, adjustable backpack straps, and pillow, as well as safety features for reclining.  

▶️ SHOP RIO BEACH 4-Position Lace-Up Backpack Folding Beach Chair

9. Hurley Deluxe Backpack Beach Chair

Hurley Deluxe Backpack Beach Chair is a great beach chair that is made to last. Crafted from a rust-proof aluminum frame, sand and water won’t leave a lasting impression on its functionality. 

It’s always so convenient to have a spot to store beach essentials, and the Hurley Deluxe Backpack Beach Chair comes with an impressive zippered storage pocket. It’s so nice to put your phone, keys, and any other important items there, zip it up and not have to worry about anything getting lost. 

Also a great option for comfort, this chair has five different recline settings. Whether you’re sitting up tall to watch the kids play in the surf or lean way back for a nap, this backpack beach chair is a great addition to a beach experience. 

▶️ SHOP Hurley Deluxe Backpack Beach Chair

10. Tangkula Backpacking Chair (2 Pack) 

Tangkula Backpacking Chair is an easily folded, transported, and stored backpack beach chair. This option offers comfort in many forms, including padded shoulder straps and five recline options. All you have to do is lift the armrest and adjust the angle to the spot you want. The chair’s webbing is pre-assembled, making it ready for use straight from purchase. 

This design is all about convenience. We love the cup holders for a water bottle on each side of the chair, the storage pocket, the beach towel rack, and most of all, the ice bag. This chair is sturdy and provides great support. We also so that the fabric breathes, helping to keep users cool during hot summer days. 

▶️ SHOP Tangkula Backpacking Chair (2 Pack) 

11. Tommy Bahama 5-Position Classic Lay Flat Folding Backpack Beach Chair

Tommy Bahama 5-Position Classic Lay Flat Folding Backpack Beach Chair is similar to the other Tommy Bahama Beach Chair backpack discussed earlier on our list, with one distinct difference. 

Sunbathers of the world over revere this backpack beach chair because one of the five recline positions will lay the chair completely flat. This set-up offers users the best set-up for optimal tanning. Because the recline is a big selling point for this chair, it’s important to also point out the safe-adjust technology that limits incidents of pinching during recline. 

Other helpful features included with this chair include a towel bar, which allows for easier and more timely drying. Not to mention the mesh storage side pocket that will keep all of your important items together. 

Perfect for the hot days of summer, this chair also features an insulated cooler pouch and drink holder. As well as bottle opener, making sure you’re ready for anything when it comes to beverages. 

All in all, we love this colorful and convenient backpack beach chair! 

▶️ SHOP Tommy Bahama 5-Position Classic Lay Flat Folding Backpack Beach Chair

12. RIO Beach Big Boy 4-Position 13″ High Seat Backpack Beach Chair 

Not all backpack beach chair options are created equal. But when it comes to RIO Beach Big Boy 4-Position 13″ High Seat Backpack Beach Chair, the customization makes all the difference.

Depending on your stature, carrying a standard beach chair as a backpack may be a challenge. We love that this particular chair features adjustable straps, so you can find the right positioning for the specific user carrying it. The straps are also amply padded to offer the most comfortable experience possible. 

Rio Beach chairs may not technically be considered plus-size beach chairs, but its higher and wider seating often offers a more comfortable experience for larger body types than some of the other chairs on our list. The seat isn’t the only feature that benefits, as the armrests on this chair are wider. A little more space offers users stronger stability in terms of forearm and elbow comfort. 

This chair also boasts some of our favorite bonus features, including a roomy storage pouch, a removable pillow, and a cup holder, making this the perfect chair for relaxing and flying your beach kite.  

▶️ SHOP RIO beach Big Boy 4-Position 13″ High Seat Backpack Beach Chair 

Backpack Beach Chair for Kids 

13. Outdoor Portable Backpack Chair – Sun Squad

The Outdoor Portable Backpack Chair – Sun Squad is a great way to get your kids engaged in the backpack beach chair game. This chair is obviously great for the beach, but it has amazing versatility for kids. When your beachside vacation comes to an end, your kids can still use this chair while sitting on the sidelines at a sibling’s soccer game or even just lounging around in the backyard. 

This chair is sturdy yet lightweight, so it will still be easily manageable for your kids. We love the bright color options to choose from. No matter which colors you end up with, the fabric of the chair is weather resistant, so no matter rain, or shine this one is in the fight for the long haul. 

▶️ SHOP Outdoor Portable Backpack Chair – Sun Squad

Backpack Beach Chair for Elderly 

14. Ostrich Deluxe Padded Sport 3-in-1 Aluminum Beach Chair

Beachgoers who are all about self-care will absolutely love the Ostrich Deluxe Padded Sport 3-in-1 Aluminum Beach Chair! As if a roomy, oversized backpack beach chair with five recline positions and an adjustable footrest wasn’t enough, users can comfortably lay on both their back and stomach on this chair. 

Designed for optimal comfort, the back of the chair features an open hole and face cushion for breathability when on your stomach and a padded headrest that covers the hole when sitting in the chair. 

This is a great choice for an elderly beachgoer because the chair sits a solid 12” off the ground, making it one of the easiest to get out of on our list. We love the unique design of this chair and all the vibrant colors it’s available in! 

▶️ SHOP Ostrich Deluxe Padded Sport 3-in-1 Aluminum Beach Chair

15. SUNNYFEEL Extra Wide 28″ Low Beach Chair

SUNNYFEEL Extra Wide 28″ Low Beach Chair is a low beach chair with a high back. This comfy combination allows users to have optimal support while still getting to enjoy the sand and surf. And it folds up small, sure not to take up too much space between trips to the beach. 

Perfect for older beachgoers, the angle of this chair can be adjusted easily through the armrest recline system. It also has some super convenient features like an attached cup holder and storage options, so the user can have everything they need within arm’s reach. And of course, the backpack straps make transport a breeze when it comes time to pack up and head home for the day. 

This option isn’t cheap, but you can rest assured knowing that you are buying a quality beach chair. Designed from powder-coated aluminum, this frame is built to last, and the Oxford cloth fabric is not only comfortably breathable, it also exhibits great strength and durability. 

▶️ SHOP SUNNYFEEL Extra Wide 28″ Low Beach Chair

16. KingCamp Low Folding Beach Chairs

KingCamp Low Folding Beach Chairs is the perfect chair for a lazy day at the beach. Low to the ground, this chair offers unlimited leg extension space. Stretching out in this wide-seated chair has been compared to lying in bed; it’s that comfortable. 

Built from a heavy-duty steel frame and breathable Oxford fabric, it’s well-designed. Throw in the convenience of a cup holder and super easy set-up, you can’t go wrong with KingCamp Low Folding Beach Chairs! 

We took this particular chair on our last road trip through Florida when we visited the Gulf Coast beaches, and it worked great for us. It is really fast and easy to put this chair away. It is also low to the ground, which makes it easy for kids and babies at the beach to get in and out of the chair without tipping it over.

We used this chair for years and it worked very well for us. One of the drawbacks that we found slightly annoying was that the shoulder strap for the bag does not fit over the back of the chair. This made it a little hard to keep track of the bag.

▶️ SHOP KingCamp Low Folding Beach Chairs

17. Water Buffalo Beach Chair

Water Buffalo Beach Chair hits all the right marks when it comes to a stylish and functional backpack beach chair. A solid and nice-looking chair, the anodized aluminum frame and polytexteline material make for a great combination. We love the glow of the beechwood armrests too. They’re a beautiful touch to an already impressive chair. 

The chair’s waterproof polytexteline material makes wet swimsuits sitting in beach chairs no big thing. The breathable material dries quickly and provides a more refreshing experience than chairs with heavier fabric, making it the perfect place to rest after riding the waves on your boogie board.

Unlike many of the chairs on our list, the handy backpack straps that make for a wonderful hands-free transport can be detached. Enjoy the convenience without having to worry about a bulky seat.  

▶️ SHOP Water Buffalo Beach Chair

18. Ostrich On-Your-Back Outdoor Lounge 5 Position Reclining Beach Chair (2 Pack)

Ostrich On-Your-Back Outdoor Lounge 5 Position Reclining Beach Chair (2 Pack) is a great deal if you’re looking for a standard folding beach chair for more than one person. Not a conjoined chair, this particular chair is sold as a double pack of two separate chairs. 

We love the bright colors of these chairs and are impressed by their sturdy frame. This chair has the best material for the beach, lightweight, breathable, and water-resistant, it doesn’t get much better than that! 

Another big advantage to this chair’s design is the option for beachgoers to lay on their stomach on the chair as well. With the convenient face area and openings for arms, this is the perfect backpack beach chair for an all-around great tan. 

▶️ SHOP Ostrich On-Your-Back Outdoor Lounge 5 Position Reclining Beach Chair (2 Pack)

19. ONIVA Beach Chair 

ONIVA Beach Chair is a great upright chair for a day at the beach. The chair is sturdy yet easily transported and includes some very convenient features like pockets for storage and insulated cooler space. 

That said, its design is not as relaxing as most of the options on this list. This chair does not recline, and it includes a side table. The extra-wide seat and padded armrests are sure to make for a comfortable experience, but it’s not as laid back as a typical backpack beach chair. 

▶️ SHOP ONIVA Beach Chair 

What To Look For In A Backpack Beach Chair 

When shopping around for the perfect beach chair backpack, you should really consider what you want out of the chair. Depending on where you plan to take it, a shady canopy may be an essential feature for you, or maybe lots of storage pockets are more important. Here’s a rundown of the most important features to consider when buying a Beach chair with backpack straps 

Comfort

Do you need a chair with solid back support to make your day at the beach complete? Or would you rather lean back in a reclining seat with a footrest? Keep extra comfort features like these in mind while you’re shopping for the right fit. 

Cooler

Staying hydrated while you’re at the beach is so important. Decide ahead of time whether you need your backpack beach chair to have a cooler or if you want to store cool drinks on your beach getaway elsewhere. 

Storage

Some backpack beach chairs have several pockets and different places for storage of personal items or food and drinks, while others don’t. These compartments can be great for carrying small beach toys or games too. Keep in mind how important storage is to you, especially when it comes to open vs. zippered (more protected) storage. 

Sun Protection 

As we all well know, sun protection is a major thing to consider when planning a beach getaway with your family. Keep this in consideration while you shop for the best backpack beach chairs for your needs. If you’ve got a large beach umbrella or canopy already, sun protection on your chairs won’t be as much of a concern. But if you don’t have a major sunshade, individual chair shades provide another means to consider. 

Durability  

One of the best beach chairs can set you back a decent amount of money. It’s always wise to consider the durability and potential longevity of the backpack folding chair you’re interested in before making the purchase. 

Framing 

The metallic material used for the framing of the chair will offer great insight into how well the structure will stand over time. Aluminum is often the material used to frame the best beach chairs. This metallic material is more resistant to salt than many of its counterparts, helping it stand up stronger against the elements with less rust impact. Plus, it’s lightweight, which adds to the ease of carrying this type of backpack beach chair. 

Fabric 

Fabric can make or break your experience in a beach chair. Lightweight and quick-dry materials are the best to consider when spending time in the sand and sun. These breathable fabrics will guarantee a much more pleasant experience than heavier fabrics often seen in camping-style chairs. 

The lightweight fabrics will also be easier to clean and keep up than others that may age prematurely or stain if left wet for an extended period of time. 

Seat Height 

Seat height is a major factor to consider when determining which backpack beach chair style is best for you. There are three different heights to consider. 

Low 

The low seat height typically refers to a chair that will sit 8 inches or lower to the ground. This type of chair allows for maximum leg extension, perfect for beachgoers who want the support of a chair while also stretching out in the sand or splashing their feet in the water. Keep in mind these chairs will be most difficult to get out of. 

Standard

The standard seat height typically refers to a chair that sits 8-12 inches off the ground. This is somewhat of a norm for backpack beach chairs, as many chairs fit this category. This design provides comfort for most beachgoers. 

Tall

The tall seat height typically refers to a chair 13 inches and taller. These are great options for older folks or anyone else who may struggle with standing from a sitting position in a chair. The extra height makes it easier to get out of. 

Portability 

Like it or not, a day at the beach with your family can require a lot of different items. The last thing you need is to be weighed down by a heavy backpack beach chair Costco made you buy! Take a moment to research how portable the beach chair you’re interested in is before finalizing your purchase. 

Backpack beach chairs are the best beach chair option when shopping for portability. Not only do they fold up nicely for easy transport, they have straps that enable you to carry them hands-free.  

FAQ: Backpack Beach Chair

How Do You Fold Up a Backpack Beach Chair? 

Folding Tommy Bahama Beach Chairs (among many other brands) can be confusing for newcomers. This can be done in a few easy steps. 

Stand behind the chair, tilt it forward so the back bottom bar comes off the ground, place your foot on the bar, and continue to fold the chair forward until it collapses onto itself. Then use the straps on the outside to position it on your back for easy carrying. 

How Do You Carry a Beach Chair As a Backpack? 

If the chair is folded up correctly, the backpack straps should be easily accessible. Just put one strap over each shoulder, and you should be good to go! 

How Do You Clean A Beach Chair? 

Even the best backpack beach chair is bound to get dirty if you’re using it right! A simple shake and occasional wipe-down should be sufficient enough for cleaning standard sand and beach water grime. 

For tougher stains, mold, or mildew growth, we recommend cleaning the affected area with a vinegar and water solution or a baking soda solution. You can then scrub the soiled area to clear up the stains.  

Can I Fly With a Beach Chair? 

Yes, you can carry a beach chair with a canopy or any other style of beach chair on a plane. Based on FAA regulations, as long as it folds flat and can fit underneath the chair in front of you or in the overhead compartment, it’s cleared to fly. 

Some travelers even check their backpack beach chairs but recommend you put them in a suitcase or package them in a box if you take that route.  

What Chairs Work Best On The Beach? 

Beach chairs come in a wide variety of styles with different aims of comfort. All beach chairs are a great addition to a fun day on the water’s edge, but the best option will depend on the experience you’re looking for. 

Some beachgoers love a backpack beach chair with an umbrella to keep them protected from the sun, while others might be more interested in a low-profile seat where they can comfortably stretch out and soak up some rays. Tommy Bahama chairs and the Rio backpack beach chair line are some of the most popular beach chair backpacks. 

Do People Bring Camping Chairs to the Beach? 

Yes, people do use camping chairs on the beach. While you don’t have to purchase a specific beach-style chair, they are the seats best designed to provide stability and comfort on the sand.

We have used camping chairs a the beach for years. They can be a little taller than what we like at the beach and they can sink down in the sand a bit but they do work fine.

Conclusion: Backpack Beach Chair 

We hope this guide will help ease any retail woes as you determine which chair is right for your adventures to the beach or swimming lake. Here’s to lots of family fun under the sand in the sun.