Whether you have heard of backpack chairs or not, they are something that you may really want to take with you to the beach. They allow you to sit in a comfortable place without having to sit directly on the sand and are easy to take along with you. Here’s a look at some of their features, as well as information to know if you’re getting a good deal.
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What are they for?
If you have ever been to the beach, you know that you either have to take your own chair, sit on a blanket, or just take a seat in the sand. Any of those things will work, but you may be able to relax a bit more when you’re sitting in your own chair, especially if you are someone who likes to use beach tents or umbrellas to block the sun and wind.
With a backpack chair, you can easily take your own chair with you, meaning you will have a comfortable place to sit, no matter where you choose to set up for the day.
Why are they called backpack chairs?
The name backpack chair comes from the fact that many models have straps so that you can carry them around like a backpack to get them from place to place. They range in size and shape, so they may take up just a little bit of space on your back or a lot, but that depends on the various features of the chair.
What should I look for?
Most models are rather simple, but there are a few things to look out for to ensure you are getting something that you will be able to keep using.
- Construction. Not all chairs are made the same. You need to pay attention to how they are made so that you can tell if it will hold up after many uses. It won’t be worth the purchase price if you can only sit in it a few times before it breaks of rusts. The best way to do this is to look at the materials it is made out of and check to see if there are a lot of stitching or rivets. This may let you know that something will stay together well.
- Weight limit. Weight limit can also be a big deal. Depending on who needs to sit in your chair, it is worthwhile to know what the chair can handle. Most options are made from polyester or other synthetic materials, which can become damaged if someone doesn’t sit on it correctly. Keep this in mind when you’re shopping around.
- Other features. Some products have extras like cup holders or places to put a beach umbrella. While these are great, a chair doesn’t need to have these things to be able to function properly. In other words, you shouldn’t have to pay more for chairs that have these extras, unless they are things that you wanted in the first place.
- Care instructions. Even if you just spend a few dollars on a chair, you will want to be able to keep using it. This means making sure that it is free of holes and snags each time you put it away so that it will be ready to use next time. If you aren’t willing to do this, you may want to find a different type of chair.
Types
They are called backpack beach chairs, but there are essentially two types to look out for.
The classic backpack type has straps on it just like a backpack so you can carry it on your shoulders. They usually fold up small and you just need to take it off your back and unfold it to use it.
There is also another kind that comes in a bag. These can also be carried on a shoulder, but not necessarily like a backpack. You take them out of the bag and unfold them when you want to use them. Some items are hard to get back in the bag and others you will have no problems with.
There are also different chair types that are made similar to this. You can have anything from a shortened beach chair to a camping type chair to a beach lounger. All of them can get some major use at the beach, so it’s a matter of preference on your part as to which one you choose.
Materials
The materials that the chair is made out will vary as well. Many options have aluminum or steel frames, both of which should be able to hold a decent amount of weight.
Other materials include canvas, mesh, and other things. Most of these things are treated, so the color won’t rub off or fade when it gets wet or placed in the sun. There are usually a number of designs to take advantage of as well. You can get everyone in your household something a little bit different when you find a type you like. Most options can be used comfortably many times and will still look like brand new.
Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Chair
This chair comes in a handful of designs and has plenty of extras to spoil you a little bit while you’re relaxing on the beach. It also has padded straps so you can carry it on your back with no problems at all.
Pros
- Comes with a storage pouch. There is a storage pouch on this one, for all your really important items.
- Can change positions. You can change your position when you sit. It can be adjusted to five different positions so you can get as comfortable as you want. This also helps ensure that any umbrella you have will be able to protect you.
- Holds up to 300 pounds. It is built strong and can hold up to 300 pounds. Essentially, anyone in your family can sit on this one without hurting it or causing structural damage.
- Has pillow. There is a pillow on the head of it that you can adjust in order to lean your head back and relax.
Cons
- Sits very low to the ground. This chair only sits a few inches off of the ground, so if you want to sit up higher than that, you’ll need to find something else to sit in.
Rio Brands Lace Up Aluminum Backpack Chair
This chair has a unique design, in which the seat is laced around the frame. This gives it a better level of support than just having a few grommets attached. It also adjusts to four different positions, has a drink holder, storage pouch, and a pillow. The weight capacity is approximately 240 pounds.
Pros
- Resistant to rust. The aluminum frame is resistant to rust. This means it won’t get rusty, even if you take it around the ocean.
- Easy for anyone to carry. It is easy for anyone to carry on their backs, although it may be a bit cumbersome if a child is carrying it, due to the width.
- Plastic arms. The plastic arms ensure that you aren’t burned by metal. They are molded so you’ll be more comfortable when you use them.
- Roomy. It is larger than some other chairs and because there is a place for most of your items, you won’t have to take an extra bag with you.
Cons
- Might be hard to fold up. You may have to practice folding the chair back up a few times because it might be confusing the first couple of times. This is because there are safety hinges to protect you when you sit in it.
Coleman Utopia Breeze Beach Sling Chair
When you think of Coleman you likely think of camping, but they also make many items for the beach. This chair comes with its own carrying case and can hold around 250 pounds. It has fewer features than other chairs, but it is made by a brand you may already trust.
Pros
- Lightweight. The chair only weighs a little over 5 pounds, so it won’t break your back when you’re carrying it.
- Curved arms. It has curved arms that are covered in foam, so you won’t hurt yourself. The arms are comfortable and shouldn’t be in your way at all.
- Dries fast. The canvas on this product will dry fast if you get it wet or sit in it after you’ve gone swimming. This is especially true if you let it dry in the hot sun.
- Folds up small. It not only folds up small enough to place back in its case, but it can also be stored right in your car for safe keeping.
Cons
- Chair doesn’t adjust. The chair doesn’t adjust or recline at all. However, it does sit about 4 inches up off the ground and has four solid feet, which is unlike many other backpack beach chair models.
Strongback Low Gravity Beach Chair
This chair can be used by anyone, especially those that may have back problems or thought their days of sitting in beach chairs were over. With its many features, you can be at ease sitting in this special chair and you can simply enjoy yourself. It can handle up to 300 pounds.
Pros
- Has lumbar support. The most important aspect of this chair is that it has lumbar support. This will protect your back and help guard you from pain while in use.
- Steel frame. The frame is made of steel, which makes it very strong. It is also coated to protect from rusting and scratches.
- Has a high back. The back of the seat is high, meaning that you won’t be straining your neck or head when you sit in it. You can sit back and not have to worry about not being properly supported.
- Ergonomic seat. The seat is also ergonomic, so each part of this chair should be comfortable to you.
Cons
- Might be hard to get back in case. Although it folds up nicely, it may not always be easy to get back into its case. You might want to have someone help you with this in the event that you have trouble.
Kelsyus Backpack Chair
This chair can be used for camping or the beach and has extras that make it more than your run-of-the-mill chair. Kelsyus has been making this model for many years, which is a good sign of reliability.
Pros
- Armrests are backpack straps. The armrests can be removed in order to put the chair on your shoulders and carry it; they become the backpack straps.
- Adjustable headrest. The headrest is adjustable so you’ll be able to put it wherever you want.
- Mesh seat. The whole bottom seat is mesh, which not only keeps you cool on hot days, but also allows you to dry off a bit while sitting in the chair. The chair itself should be able to stay dry too.
- Good for tall people. Since the headrest is adjustable, the product can easily accommodate individuals up to 6 feet in height. This is not a common feature of backpack beach chairs.
Cons
- Have to be careful with armrests. Although the armrests serve two purposes, you still have to be careful with them. You don’t want them to become damaged or lose function.
Conclusion
There are many backpack beach chairs you can purchase and use that will be just fine, but the best one is the Strongback Low Gravity Beach Chair. With its steel frame and the ability to hold up to 300 pounds, it can be used by most people. Furthermore, the fact that it has lumbar support allows you to use it without hurting yourself even if you have back problems. It weighs a little bit more than other chairs, but it will also hold up better than most.
If you want something with many features, the Tommy Bahama Backpack Cooler Chair has everything you need. There is an adjustable pillow, a storage pouch, and room for your drink. It can also change positions, so you can sit back and relax.
All of these options are top-shelf purchases, so check them out for yourself to determine which one is best for you. A few come in different styles and colors, so you can choose something that will really represent you and your family. They are all affordable and can protect you from having to sit on hot sand, so don’t delay. Purchase one as soon as possible, so you can start looking cool at the beach.