Comfort On The Go: The 10 Best Backpack Beach Chair Selections

Last Updated 26 Apr 2024 by Fiona Perisone

EDITOR'S PICKS

Recommended
best beach chair overall
Sport-Brella SunSoul Folding Lightweight Backpack Beach Chair thumbnail

4.5/5

  • Lightweight and comfortable
  • Easy to fold and unfold
  • Excellent storage space
  • High-quality
Recommended
worth the splurge
The High Tide Beach Bundle thumbnail

4.5/5

  • Easy to carry, open and close
  • Includes a drink holder, dry bag, and towel that attaches to your chair
  • Well-made and durable
Recommended
best value      
Tommy Bahama 5-Position Classic Lay Flat Folding Backpack Beach Chair thumbnail

4.5/5

  • Durable and lightweight
  • Comfortable and easy to carry
  • Large and well-made

MORE PICKS TO CHOOSE FROM

A backpack beach chair is an ultimate accessory for any beach-goer. Not only does it provide comfortable seating, but it also allows you to transport all of your beach essentials hands-free. With adjustable straps and a spacious interior, you can easily pack your towel, sunscreen, water bottle, and more. The lightweight, foldable design makes it easy to carry, and the durable materials ensure it will withstand the elements.

To help you shop, we have rounded up the best backpack beach chairs on the market below. Whether you're relaxing on the sand, walking along the shoreline, or taking a dip in the ocean, a backpack beach chair is a perfect companion.

What to Look for in a Backpack Beach Chair

Any outing to the beach isn't complete without a good beach chair. Most of us don't live right on or near the beach, so beach chair backpacks are the best and easiest way to bring comfort to you. When hunting for the perfect beach backpack, consider the following factors:

Durability, Material, and Weight

Investing in a backpack beach chair means finding one that will last and be able to hold a good amount of weight. Look for chairs made of steel if you want the sturdiest selection. If the weight of the beach backpack chair is more important, aluminum is durable and lighter than steel.

Along with the frame material, make sure that the fabric is decent as well. Cotton and canvas are best for comfort, but polyester and nylon are more weather resistant and less likely to fray. To ensure durability with these fabrics, look for a chair with a denier (fiber thickness of individual threads) strength between 420-600D.

Comfort

Beach chair backpacks have come a long way since the first folding lawn chair debuted in the 1950s. Now equipped with straps (or even wheels) for transportation, different height options, personalized position, and even various cushions for a footrest and head/neck support, the modern backpack lounge chair is comfier than ever.

Note that the comfier it is, the more cumbersome it might be to transport. But if comfort is your main goal, find one with reviews about cushioned support and whether or not you can feel the back bar when you sit. There's even one with a cavity for your face if you want to lie face down! Treat yourself.

Budget

Beach backpack chairs come in a wide variety of prices. You can get chairs for as low as $10 to as high as $400. Both cost-effective and decadent options are available.

Versatility

Backpack beach chairs fold up for easy transportation, but there's more to think about. A folding chair should fold easily and lock securely when you sit on it. Some options can recline to different angles, some even all the way to horizontal (in this case, the far back head bar doubles as a towel bar). Because they are so light and easily transportable, they can be used as lawn chairs or outdoor camping chairs as well.

Extra Features

Lastly, personal preference is also important. For example, some want a backpack beach chair with pockets for smaller items. For others, a chair with a sunshade is attractive. Many options come with drink holders or a large insulated pocket for cooler needs as well.

Having said all that, check out our list of top-notch recommended choices below! Best Backpack Beach Chairs

Weight Capacity

Most beach chairs will support up to 250 pounds, but some can support up to 500 pounds.

10 Best Backpack Beach Chairs

Sport-Brella SunSoul Folding Lightweight Backpack Beach Chair

Best Beach chair Overall

overall 

4.5/5

Quality

Sturdiness

Ease of Use

Comfort

Sport-Brella SunSoul Folding Lightweight Backpack Beach Chair

Features:

  • 3 reclining positions for multiple seating options
  • Large storage compartment with a water-resistant utility pocket
  • Arms rest and cup holders

Sport-Brella SunSoul Folding Lightweight Backpack Beach Chair is one of the best beach chairs on the market. An elevation to a traditional beach chair, Sport-Brella SunSoul Folding Lightweight Backpack Beach Chair is the ultimate folding beach umbrella that combines convenience, comfort, and protection all in one compact package! It has a unique combination of portability, comfort, and practical features (like the utility pocket with a built-in bottle opener and a cup holder on the right arm). While not the priciest chair in the market, the SunSoul is a premium offering with its stylish (Herschel) backpack design and wooden armrests.

Its innovative design sets the Sport-Brella SunSoul apart from other beach umbrellas. The umbrella folds down into a compact, lightweight backpack, making it easy to carry with you wherever you go. The backpack is spacious enough for many personal items and has a water-resistant pocket. Its lightweight design, backpack straps, and top strap make it easy to carry. The chair is durable and made of water-resistant nylon fabric and aluminum (with a weight limit of up to 225 lbs). It also comes with a one-year warranty.

Material

Aluminum, Nylon

Weight

7.5 pounds

Weight Capacity

N/A

Dimensions

4.72" D x 24.61" W x 27.76" H

Pros:

  • Lightweight and comfortable
  • High-quality
  • Easy to fold and unfold
  • Excellent storage space

Cons:

  • Backpack straps can easily break when the backpack is too heavy

The High Tide Beach Bundle

Worth the Splurge

overall 

4.5/5

Quality

Sturdiness

Ease of Use

Comfort

The High Tide Beach Bundle

Features:

  • Rust resistant
  • Reclines to 3 positions
  • Detachable back pack straps

Escape to the beach and soak up the sun in style with the High Tide Beach Bundle from SunFlow! This high-end High Tide is the perfect beach chair for those who demand the best in quality, comfort, and style. Designed with luxury in mind and comes everything you need for a perfect day at the beach, all in one convenient package. The bundle includes a spacious, high-quality beach tent, two comfortable beach chairs, and a beach blanket that's big enough for the whole family. The tent provides ample shade and protection from the sun, wind, and rain, so you can relax and enjoy your day without worrying about the weather. The chairs are designed for ultimate comfort, with sturdy construction, adjustable armrests, and a convenient cup holder. And the blanket is made from soft, durable fabric that's perfect for lounging on the sand.

To guarantee your investment is worthwhile, the High Tide is made of rust-resistant ultimate strength aluminum and Greenguard Gold Certified Water Resistant Marine Fabrics. There are also various protection plans available to ensure a lifetime of happy beach outings.

Material

70% PVC, 30% Poly

Weight

15 pounds

Weight Capacity

250 pounds

Dimensions

N/A

Pros:

  • Easy to carry, open and close
  • Includes a drink holder, dry bag, and towel that attaches to your chair
  • Well-made and durable

Cons:

  • Seat can be too high for some

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

Best Value

overall 

4.5/5

Quality

Sturdiness

Ease of Use

Comfort

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

Features:

  • 5-position easy-adjust recline options
  • Towel bar on the back and an insulated cup holder
  • Mesh pocket and plush pillow

With its combination of comfort, convenience, and affordability, this Tommy Bahama beach chair brings style and comfort to the beach while offering excellent value. Only weighing 7 lbs, the aluminum frame is durable and can support up to 250 pounds. The sturdy frame and high-quality fabric ensure that the chair will last for many beach seasons to come, while the backpack design makes it easy to carry with you wherever you go.

The Tommy Bahama Backpack Beach Chair offers five adjustable positions for customized comfort (including a lay flat option), a pillow for your head/neck, and two spacious back storage pouches (one mesh for personal items and one insulated for cooler needs). It also has armrest storage with a zipper pocket for your phone, a cup holder, and an attached bottle opener. While other chairs tend to pinch your fingers while adjusting, this one is made with Safe-Adjust technology to ensure that doesn't happen to you.

Material

Aluminum, Wood, Fabric

Weight

7 pounds

Weight Capacity

approx. 200 pounds

Dimensions

25.25" D x 23" W x 31.5" H

Pros:

  • Durable and lightweight
  • Comfortable and easy to carry
  • Large and well-made

Cons:

  • Shoulder straps break

Rio Beach 4 Position Lace-Up Backpack Folding Beach ChairBest

Budget Friendly

overall 

4.6/5

Quality

Sturdiness

Ease of Use

Comfort

Rio Beach 4 Position Lace-Up Backpack Folding Beach ChairBest

Features:

  • 4-position easy-adjust recline options
  • Large adjustable pillow and cup holder
  • Adjustable, backpack shoulder strap with large storage pouch

Make your next beach trip unforgettable with the Rio Brands Beach 4-Position Backpack Folding Beach Chair! This versatile beach chair offers the ultimate combination of comfort, style, and convenience while providing an affordable option for those who want to enjoy their time at the beach without spending a lot of money.

The Rio beach chair features a unique lace-up suspension system for added comfort and a lightweight (8 lbs) backpack design for easy transportation. With its adjustable design, you can sit up, recline, or lay flat for the ultimate beach relaxation. Crafted from waterproof polyester and an aluminum frame that can support up to 240 pounds. Despite its low price, this beach chair does not skimp on quality and features an adjustable pillow and backpack strap. You also get pinch-free and tilt lock protection, a cup holder, and a large storage pouch.

Material

Aluminum, Foam

Weight

8 pounds

Weight Capacity

240 pounds

Dimensions

32" D x 25" W x 24.75" H

Pros:

  • Lightweight and rust-proof
  • Comfortable and well-made
  • Excellent storage

Cons:

  • Can be difficult to fold

GCI Outdoor Waterside SunShade Backpack Beach Chair

Best with Shade

overall 

4.6/5

Quality

Sturdiness

Ease of Use

Comfort

GCI Outdoor Waterside SunShade Backpack Beach Chair

Features:

  • 4-position reclining
  • Ventilated mesh backrest
  • Collapsible sun shade
  • Built-in beverage holder and a comfortable head pillow

Looking to stay protected from the sun while they enjoy the great outdoors? The GCI chair might just be the chair that you're looking for! With this beach chair, you can take your beach day to the next level. The innovative beach chair combines comfort, style, and convenience into one convenient package. The adjustable design allows you to sit up, recline, or lay flat for maximum relaxation, while the sturdy aluminum frame and high-quality fabric ensure that the chair will last for many beach seasons to come.

The reclining beach chair features a four-position reclining backrest and, more importantly, a multi-position adjustable canopy allowing you to customize your comfort and shade coverage as needed. This reclining beach chair also comes with a large back storage pocket, a beverage holder, a head pillow, and ventilated breathable mesh backrest. But what really sets the SunShade Backpack Beach Chair apart is its built-in sunshade. This innovative feature provides ample protection from the sun, wind, and rain, so you can relax and enjoy your day at the beach without worrying about the weather. And with its compact, folding design and backpack straps, this chair is easy to carry wherever you go.

Material

Alloy Steel, Aluminum, Mesh

Weight

9.7 pounds

Weight Capacity

250 pounds

Dimensions

26" D x 24.2" W x 30.9" H

Pros:

  • Cup holder is large
  • Shady is handy and sturdy
  • Roomy and comfortable

Cons:

  • Seat can be a bit low for tall people

4Ocean Backpack Beach Chair

Best Eco-Friendly

overall 

4.8/5

Quality

Sturdiness

Ease of Use

Comfort

4Ocean Backpack Beach Chair

Features:

  • 5 positions for ultimate comfort, including lay flat
  • Drink holder and cell phone pocket on arm
  • Storage + cooler pouches on chair back
  • Folding towel bar to easily dry wet towels

The 4Ocean is a top choice for environmentally conscious beach-goers looking to enjoy the great outdoors while minimizing their environmental impact. Crafted from sustainable steel and recycled plastic, this stylish and eco-friendly beach chair is the perfect companion for your next beach trip. Additionally, 4Ocean is dedicated to cleaning the ocean and coastlines and donates a portion of its profits to this cause.

This chair is not only eco-friendly but comfortable as well. It has five reclining positions (including lay flat, thanks to the foldable towel bar), a neck pillow, adjustable padded backpack straps, pockets in the arm for a beverage and your phone, and storage and cooler pouches in the back. But the 4ocean Signature Layflat Cooler Backpack Beach Chair isn't just stylish and comfortable but also practical! The built-in cooler keeps your drinks cold and within reach, so you can stay refreshed all day long. And with its eco-friendly design, this chair is a great way to show your commitment to the environment and support the ocean conservation efforts of 4ocean. So be good to the environment and yourself, and get this chair!

Material

Aluminum, Plastic

Weight

9.48 pounds

Weight Capacity

275 pounds

Dimensions

26.38" D x 25.6" W x 32.28" H

Pros:

  • Sturdy and rust-proof
  • 100% post-consumer recycled plastic
  • Ergonomically designed neck pillow with hidden zipper pouch
  • Light weight and easy to carry

Cons:

  • Fabric is not durable

Bumruk Beach backpack Recliner

Best Multipurpose

overall 

4.5/5

Quality

Sturdiness

Ease of Use

Comfort

Bumruk Beach backpack Recliner

Features:

  • 5 reclining positions
  • Zip-on backpack
  • Adjustable shoulder straps
  • Holder and all-cotton towel

Unlike other choices on this list, this unusual choice is predominantly a backpack but is very cool in its own right. Say goodbye to uncomfortable beach chairs and hello to this innovative Beach Backpack Recliner. Due to its compact design, it looks like a typical backpack but transforms into a comfortable cushioned recliner. Sure, it doesn't have the usual features, but this is the way to go for any outdoor adventures (from concerts to beach days and hikes), as this all-in-one beach backpack is designed to make your beach day a breeze. With adjustable straps and a convenient backpack design, you can easily carry all your essentials to the beach.

Once you arrive, simply unpack the recliner and adjust it to your desired position. With multiple recline positions, you can find the perfect angle to soak up the sun or enjoy a good book. Ideally, this option is best for those looking for the easiest, most portable option out there. The actual backpack component is quite roomy, and the bottom comes with a holder for the included free towel. Whether you're headed to the beach, a park, or a camping trip, the Beach Backpack Recliner is the ultimate outdoor accessory.

Material

steel, cotton, epe foam, plastic buckle, plastic zipper, nylon, lycra, neoprene

Weight

N/A

Weight Capacity

300 pounds

Dimensions

12” W x 19” H x 8” D

Pros:

  • Lightweight and waterproof
  • Ultra-comfy cushioned chair
  • Convenient and functional
  • Sturdy and durable

Cons:

  • A bit pricey

Tommy Bahama Wavy Marlin High Back Recliner Shade Chair

Best High Back

overall 

4.3/5

Quality

Sturdiness

Ease of Use

Comfort

Tommy Bahama Wavy Marlin High Back Recliner Shade Chair

Features:

  • Wood arms and adjustable canopy
  • Mesh under-canopy pouch
  • Adjustable pillow

Elevate your outdoor lounging with the Wavy Marlin High Back Recliner Shade Chair from Tommy Bahama! This chair features a tall backrest that provides ample support, making it a top choice for spending long hours at the beach. The chair is also equipped with a mesh pocket, a reclining option, and an adjustable shade canopy, allowing you to customize your comfort level and protect yourself from the sun.

The Wavy Marlin High Back Recliner Shade Chair is made with high-quality materials and is built to last. The lightweight design makes it easy to transport from place to place, while the sturdy frame provides stability and support. If that wasn't enough, the adjustable pillow keeps your head, neck, and lumbar comfortable for hours, and the mesh backrest allows you to feel the ocean breeze. The right arm storage comprises of a beverage holder, a utility pocket, and a zipper pouch. The chair is made from high-quality materials, including a sturdy steel frame, ensuring years of use.

Material

Aluminum, Mesh

Weight

N/A

Weight Capacity

250 pounds

Dimensions

26.125" w x 10.25" h x 16.5" d

Pros:

  • Breathable and comfortable
  • Convenient
  • High-back
  • Well-made and durable

Cons:

  • Can be heavy for some

Hurley Deluxe Backpack Outdoor Chair

Best Lightweight Backpack Chair

overall 

4.6/5

Quality

Sturdiness

Ease of Use

Comfort

Hurley Deluxe Backpack Outdoor Chair

Features:

  • Rust resistant
  • 5 reclining positions (including full recline)
  • Padded pillow and adjustable shoulder straps
  • Towel bar and side storage bag

Stay stylish and organized with the Hurley Deluxe Backpack Beach Chair! This innovative beach chair combines the convenience of a backpack with the comfort of a beach chair. With adjustable straps and a spacious design, you can easily carry all your essentials to the beach or park. Weighing in on only 8 lbs, this chair is designed to be easy to carry. The chair's construction features a strong aluminum frame, making it durable yet lightweight. Not only that but also on the fashionable side of things, this chair comes in 6 stylish color/pattern options to choose from.

The chair is also equipped with two storage pouches, one spacious in the back for all of your personal items and one smaller one on the right arm. The chair is also designed to provide comfort, with five reclining positions (including full lay down), a pillow, and a beverage holder. In addition to its comfortable design, the Hurley Deluxe Backpack Beach Chair also features a built-in cooler compartment, keeping your drinks and snacks cool and within reach. A convenient cup holder, a storage pouch, and a towel bar make it easy to keep your essentials close at hand.

Material

Aluminum, Polyester

Weight

8 pounds

Weight Capacity

300 pounds

Dimensions

20" D x 25.5" W x 32" H

Pros:

  • Durable quick-drying
  • Lightweight rust-proof
  • Comfortable and easy to carry

Cons:

  • Not very durable

Folding Backpack Beach Chair

Most Stylish (likely for Women)

overall 

4.8/5

Quality

Sturdiness

Ease of Use

Comfortable

Folding Backpack Beach Chair

Features:

  • Padded adjustable backpack straps
  • Wooden arm rests
  • 5 lounge settings
  • Towel bar and mesh cup holder

With its combination of style and functionality, this Folding Backpack Beach Chair in Mixed Print is a top choice for those seeking a stylish and practical option for their outdoor activities. This chair is designed with many unique, eye-catching mixed print pattern options that are sure to turn heads at the beach or park.

The chair is also designed to be practical, with a folding design and backpack straps for easy transportation, as well as a mesh cup holder, a head pillow, and an adjustable backrest + towel rack for comfort in 5 reclinable positions, including full lay down! The Folding Backpack Beach Chair in Mixed Print is made from durable materials, ensuring that it can withstand the elements and provide you with years of comfortable seating. Plus, it folds up compactly when you're not using it, making it easy to store in your car trunk or closet.

Material

Aluminum, Polyester

Weight

N/A

Weight Capacity

N/A

Dimensions

31" H x 25.5" W x 29.5" D

Pros:

  • Stylish and functional
  • Easy to carry around
  • Not bulky when folded
  • Well-made and comfortable

Cons:

  • Seat height can be too short for some

About the Author

Fiona is a veteran travel consultant, photographer and travel writer at planetrider.com. She has spent many years as a corporate travel consultant and decided to actually live the life rather than plan it for others!

SEARCH FOR THE CITY YOU WANT TO VISIT