There’s a moment on every perfect beach day that can turn bliss into a struggle. You’ve been soaking in the sun, listening to the waves, and enjoying the salty air. But now it’s time to get up—perhaps to reapply sunscreen, grab a drink, or join a game of frisbee. You brace your hands on the sandy armrests of your traditional, ground-hugging beach chair, bend your knees, and push. And then… nothing. You’re stuck. It’s an awkward, sand-kicking shuffle that involves more core strength than you bargained for. For years, my family and I accepted this as part of the beach experience. We’d lug heavy, clunky chairs that sat mere inches off the ground, resigning ourselves to the graceless dance of getting in and out of them. It was particularly tough on my parents, for whom a low chair could turn a relaxing day into a source of discomfort and potential strain. This common problem is precisely why we began searching for a better solution—a chair that could offer the relaxation of the beach without the physical tax, leading us directly to the doorstep of the Tommy Bahama 2-Pack Hi-Boy Backpack Beach Chair.
- EXTRA TALL BEACH CHAIR: Tommy Bahama extended seat height backpack chair with 4 recline positions offers hands-free portability and is lightweight to carry at only 9 lbs. with the adjustable backpack...
- ALL-DAY COMFORT: Flexible suspension design supports and conforms to your body, while the SAFE-ADJUST technology that's built into the wooden armrests prevents your fingers or hands from being pinched
What to Consider Before Buying a High-Seat Beach Chair
An outdoor furniture chair, particularly one designed for the beach or campsite, is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for comfort, portability, and convenience in environments where standard seating isn’t available. The right chair can elevate an outdoor experience from a rugged outing to a luxurious escape. It provides a clean, comfortable, and supportive place to rest, keeping you off the damp, sandy, or uneven ground. The main benefits are clear: enhanced relaxation, better posture, and a personal space to call your own amidst the chaos of a crowded beach or bustling campsite. For many, especially those with mobility challenges, a good chair is not a luxury but a necessity for even being able to enjoy these activities.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone who values comfort and accessibility. This includes taller individuals who feel cramped in standard low-profile chairs, older adults, or anyone with back or knee issues who finds it difficult to get up from a low position. It’s also perfect for families who want a durable, easy-to-carry seating solution for multiple people. Conversely, this type of chair might not be suitable for the ultralight backpacker or minimalist camper, for whom every ounce matters and a simple foam pad might suffice. Those who prioritize the ability to lay completely flat for sunbathing might also prefer a different style of chair, like a classic lay-flat model, which sacrifices seat height for a fully reclining position.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Seat Height & Dimensions: The primary feature of a “Hi-Boy” chair is its height. A 17-inch seat height is comparable to a standard dining chair, making ingress and egress significantly easier. Consider the chair’s overall dimensions when open to ensure it provides enough space, and more importantly, its folded dimensions to ensure it fits in your car trunk alongside coolers, umbrellas, and other gear.
- Capacity & Performance: Always check the maximum weight capacity. The Tommy Bahama 2-Pack Hi-Boy Backpack Beach Chair supports up to 250 pounds, which is standard for this category. Performance also includes features like the number of reclining positions—four, in this case—which dictates its versatility for sitting upright, conversing, or leaning back to relax.
- Materials & Durability: The frame material is paramount. Rust-proof aluminum is the gold standard for beach chairs as it’s both lightweight for portability and resistant to corrosion from salt and moisture. The fabric should be a durable, quick-drying material like polyester, which can withstand sun exposure and frequent use. Pay close attention to the construction of joints, armrests, and straps, as these are common failure points.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: A great beach chair should be effortless. Look for features like backpack straps for hands-free carrying, intuitive folding mechanisms, and secure locking systems. Maintenance should be simple; a chair that can be easily hosed off and left to air dry is ideal for long-term care and preventing mildew.
Keeping these factors in mind, the Tommy Bahama 2-Pack Hi-Boy Backpack Beach Chair stands out in several areas, particularly its elevated design and thoughtful features. You can explore its detailed specifications here to see how it measures up against your personal checklist.
While the Tommy Bahama 2-Pack Hi-Boy Backpack Beach Chair is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- Simple & Practical: Closed armrest and leg design makes the chair simple but modern and no need to worry about the rattan falling off when they are used after a long time.
- - Sturdy & Durable: Devoko rattan patio furniture set is made of brown PE rattan and strong steel frame, It is durable enough to withstand rain and wind for long time using. Featuring sturdy...
- All-Weather PE Wicker Build: Durable PE rattan resists sun, rain, fading & cracking. Natural texture adds outdoor charm with low maintenance—simply wipe clean. Lightweight yet tough for patio,...
Unboxing the Tommy Bahama 2-Pack: First Impressions and Standout Features
The chairs arrived in a single, surprisingly manageable box. As the name implies, this is a two-pack, which immediately adds value for couples or families. Pulling them out, the first thing we noticed was the lack of any required assembly—a huge plus. They were pre-assembled and ready to go right out of the plastic wrapping. The classic Tommy Bahama aesthetic was immediately apparent in the blue and green striped polyester fabric, accented by a tastefully embroidered palm tree logo. The solid wooden armrests felt substantial and smooth underhand, a premium touch compared to the plastic arms found on many competitors. Unfolding the chair is straightforward; a gentle pull and it locks securely into its upright position. The SAFE-ADJUST mechanism, designed to prevent pinched fingers, is a thoughtful detail that speaks to a user-focused design philosophy. At 9 pounds per chair, they have a reassuring heft without being overly burdensome, striking a good balance between sturdiness and portability. The integrated backpack straps are padded and easily adjustable, and our initial test of wearing one felt surprisingly comfortable. The whole package—from the lace-up suspension system to the zippered pouches—gave an immediate impression of a well-equipped, feature-rich beach chair designed for a comfortable day out.
What We Like
- Exceptional 17-inch seat height makes getting in and out effortless.
- Comfortable and conforming lace-up suspension system.
- Convenient hands-free portability with padded backpack straps.
- Premium features like wooden armrests, zippered pouch, and cup holder.
What We Didn’t Like
- Widespread user reports of poor quality control and long-term durability issues.
- Backrest may be too short for taller individuals to rest their head.
In the Field: A Deep Dive into the Hi-Boy’s Performance and Comfort
A chair can look great out of the box, but its true value is only revealed after hours spent by the water’s edge, under the hot sun, with sand finding its way into every crevice. We put the Tommy Bahama 2-Pack Hi-Boy Backpack Beach Chair through its paces over several beach trips and a weekend camping adventure to see if its performance matched its promising first impression. We focused on its core promises: elevated comfort, all-day support, easy portability, and overall durability.
The 17-Inch ‘Hi-Boy’ Advantage: A Game-Changer for Comfort and Accessibility
Let me be unequivocal: the 17-inch seat height is the single most transformative feature of this chair. It completely changes the beach-going experience, especially for anyone who has ever groaned while trying to lever themselves out of a low-slung seat. Sitting down feels natural, like taking a seat in a regular patio chair. But the real magic happens when it’s time to stand up. There is no struggle, no awkward rocking, no need to ask for a helping hand. You simply place your hands on the sturdy wooden armrests and stand up. It’s that simple.
During our testing, this feature was universally praised by everyone who tried it. My father, who has knee troubles, declared it the “best beach chair he’s ever used” for this reason alone. This sentiment is echoed countless times in user feedback. One user, aged 69 with back issues, noted how they could barely get out of their lower Tommy Bahama chair but found this high-rise version to be a perfect solution. Another celebrated that it’s “very comfortable, easy to rise from.” This isn’t just a minor convenience; for a significant portion of the population, this elevated design is the difference between enjoying a day outdoors and staying home. It turns the beach into a more accessible, inclusive place, and for that, the design deserves immense credit.
Lace-Up Suspension and Ergonomics: Does It Live Up to the Hype?
Beyond its height, the comfort of the Tommy Bahama 2-Pack Hi-Boy Backpack Beach Chair is largely dictated by its lace-up suspension system. Unlike chairs with a single piece of taut fabric stretched across a frame, the lacing allows the seat and back to conform more dynamically to your body. We found this provided excellent support over long periods, eliminating the pressure points that can develop in less forgiving chairs. The design, which ensures there’s no gap between the seat and back panels, further enhances this comfort, preventing any awkward slouching or lower back strain. It feels less like you’re sitting *on* a chair and more like you’re being comfortably cradled *by* it.
However, the ergonomics are not flawless. A peculiar design choice, highlighted by our own testing and confirmed by other users, is the height of the backrest. One user, who owned the shorter version of the chair, was surprised to find that the back on this “Hi-Boy” model is actually shorter. For individuals over six feet tall, this means the built-in foam headrest sits around the shoulder blades rather than behind the head, preventing you from fully leaning back and resting your head. It’s a baffling oversight in a chair that otherwise prioritizes comfort. While it remains exceptionally comfortable for upright sitting, reading, or chatting, it’s less than ideal for a proper nap. For those seeking all-day lounging comfort, the ability to rest your head is crucial, and this chair falls short for taller users.
Portability and On-the-Go Features: The Backpack Chair Experience
The “backpack” aspect of this chair is another of its key selling points. Each 9-pound chair is equipped with padded, adjustable straps that allow for easy, hands-free transport from the car to your spot on the sand. We found carrying the chair this way to be far more convenient than awkwardly clutching it by an armrest. It frees up your hands to carry a cooler, a beach bag, or hold a child’s hand. The straps are comfortable enough for a moderate walk, though the 9-pound weight is noticeable. As one user mentioned, while it’s a great feature, “9lbs is still a bit heavy for me,” which is a fair point for those with strength or stamina limitations.
The chair is also loaded with useful storage features. A large zippered pouch on the back is perfect for a towel, book, or sunscreen. A smaller, insulated pouch is ideal for keeping a drink cool, and there’s a dedicated cell phone pocket and a mesh cup holder. While these are fantastic additions, we did find the cup holder to be a bit small, better suited for a standard can than a larger insulated tumbler or water bottle. Despite this minor quibble, the combination of backpack portability and ample storage makes the Tommy Bahama 2-Pack Hi-Boy Backpack Beach Chair a self-contained relaxation station. You can genuinely pack much of what you need for the day right onto the chair itself. If you’re ready to make your beach trips easier and more organized, you can see this highly portable chair for yourself.
A Closer Look at Build Quality and Durability Concerns
This is where our review must take a critical turn. While the design and features of the chair are top-notch, its execution and long-term durability are subject to significant and concerning questions. Throughout our testing, the chairs performed well, but the sheer volume of user feedback detailing quality control failures is impossible to ignore. These are not isolated incidents; they point to a systemic problem that potential buyers must be aware of.
Reports range from minor cosmetic issues like “ruff spots” on the wood arms to major structural failures. Several users received chairs that were clearly not assembled correctly, with one noting a “gap in arm support” and another receiving a chair with “all 4 screws missing out of the arms.” Even more alarming are the reports of material degradation. Multiple users described the lace-up ropes or nylon straps “disintegrating” after only a few uses or a short period in storage. One user stated that after just two uses, “the ropes on the bottom of the seat broke apart,” while another recounted that after being stored for a few years, “all of the nylon strapping disintegrated in my hands.” Frames have arrived bent, chairs have collapsed during use, and screws have fallen out of the handles. This pattern of feedback strongly suggests a decline in manufacturing quality, a sentiment captured perfectly by one disappointed customer who said, “Surprised the quality has gone down so much.” For a premium-priced product from a reputable brand like Tommy Bahama, this level of inconsistency is unacceptable and represents a major gamble for any consumer.
What Other Users Are Saying
Synthesizing the collective experience of other buyers provides a clear, albeit conflicted, picture of the Tommy Bahama 2-Pack Hi-Boy Backpack Beach Chair. On the positive side, the praise is almost universally directed at the chair’s core design concept. A user who “needed a beach chair that had just enough height to make getting up easier” called it a “perfect 10,” praising its comfort, ease of rising, and portability. Others love the aesthetics, with one noting, “These chairs are excellent, comfy and very nice looking… Love the wood handles and the canvas is nicely done.”
However, this praise is severely undermined by a torrent of negative reviews centered on quality and durability. The theme is consistent: the product often fails to live up to its promise due to poor manufacturing. One user’s experience encapsulates the frustration: “I love the chair BUT when it arrived yesterday all 4 screws are missing out of the arms so I cant even sit in it.” Another expressed profound disappointment after purchasing three chairs, only to have the “white straps disintegrated.” This creates a frustrating paradox for consumers: a brilliantly designed chair that may not be built to last, forcing a choice between top-tier functionality and a significant risk of premature failure.
How Does It Compare? The Tommy Bahama Hi-Boy vs. The Competition
No product exists in a vacuum. To fully understand the value proposition of the Tommy Bahama 2-Pack Hi-Boy Backpack Beach Chair, it’s essential to see how it stacks up against some popular alternatives, each catering to a slightly different user need.
1. VINGLI Folding Lawn Chair Set of 2
- UPGRADED COMFORT: Built with durable and breathable web, the lawn chair is comfortable enough to use in every season. Updated higher backrest gives you more support when you lean back
- STABLE CONSTRUCTION:Heavy duty metal pipes add strength and durability to the folding lawn chairs. Anti-slip pads are used to protect the floor and prevent slip on the poolside
The VINGLI Folding Lawn Chair offers a dose of nostalgia with its classic webbed design. This chair is not a direct competitor for beach backpackers but serves as a great alternative for patio, backyard, or car camping use. Its primary strengths are its simplicity and time-tested durability. The interwoven webbing provides firm but comfortable support. However, it lacks all of the advanced features of the Tommy Bahama: there are no backpack straps, no storage pouches, no cup holder, and no recline function. Someone might prefer the VINGLI set if they prioritize a simple, sturdy, and budget-friendly chair for stationary use and don’t require the portability and bells and whistles designed for a beach trek.
2. Damei century Folding Camping Chair
- 【LIGHTWEIGHT】：The folding camping chair weighs 4lbs. So you can take it everywhere with ease. It comes with a carrying bag for easy travel and to make storage easy. Whether you're tailgating,...
- 【QUALITY MATERIAL】： 100% polyester fabric for a super-strong and lightweight fabric. The 16mm steel tube frame with powder coating creates a durable frame. The portable camping chair can support...
The Damei century Folding Camping Chair represents the ultra-lightweight and compact end of the outdoor seating spectrum. This chair is built for pure portability, collapsing down into a tiny bag that can be easily stashed in a backpack. It is the ideal choice for hikers, festival-goers, or anyone where space and weight are the absolute top priorities. The trade-off is significant, however. It sits very low to the ground, offers minimal back support, and lacks the creature comforts and robust feel of the Tommy Bahama Hi-Boy. A user would choose the Damei century chair when the journey to the destination is long and arduous, and any chair is better than no chair at all.
3. Tommy Bahama Lay Flat Backpack Beach Chair
- BACKPACK BEACH CHAIR: Provides comfy and convenient seating for all your outdoor adventures including beach or lake house trips, pool days, and more; measures 23" x 25.25" x 31.5" when open
- EASY AND SAFE ADJUSTING: Easily adjusts to 5 seating positions including a lay flat position for all-over tanning, and patented SAFE-ADJUST technology protects your fingers and hands from getting...
This is arguably the most direct competitor, coming from the same brand. The classic Tommy Bahama Lay Flat chair shares many features with the Hi-Boy, including the backpack straps, storage pouches, and aluminum frame. The critical difference is the trade-off between seat height and recline. This model sits much lower to the ground but offers a 5-position recline that includes a completely flat option, making it perfect for sunbathers who want to lie on their stomach or back. The choice between the Hi-Boy and the Lay Flat comes down to a single question: Is it more important for you to get in and out of your chair easily (Hi-Boy), or to be able to lay completely flat (Lay Flat)?
The Final Verdict: Is the Tommy Bahama 2-Pack Hi-Boy Backpack Beach Chair a Worthy Upgrade?
The Tommy Bahama 2-Pack Hi-Boy Backpack Beach Chair is a product of brilliant ideas and questionable execution. The concept is a resounding success; the 17-inch seat height is a revolutionary improvement for accessibility and comfort, the backpack straps are incredibly convenient, and the lace-up suspension provides excellent support. For those who struggle with low chairs, this design is nothing short of a godsend, making outdoor activities more enjoyable and accessible.
However, we cannot in good conscience overlook the significant and widespread reports of poor quality control and material failure. While our test units held up, the risk of receiving a poorly assembled product or having straps and ropes disintegrate prematurely is very real. Therefore, our recommendation comes with a major caveat. We recommend this chair primarily to those for whom the high seat is a non-negotiable, must-have feature. If ease of getting up and down is your top priority, the benefits may well outweigh the risks. But you should purchase it with the understanding that you may need to inspect it carefully upon arrival and be prepared for potential longevity issues down the line. It’s a fantastic chair in principle, but a gamble in practice.
If you’ve decided the Tommy Bahama 2-Pack Hi-Boy Backpack Beach Chair is the right fit for your needs and are willing to take the chance on its quality, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API