When you’re heading outdoors, keeping your food and drinks cold is essential. Whether you’re hiking, camping, or just spending the day at the beach, a backpack cooler is a must-have item. It’s a convenient way to carry everything you need while ensuring your refreshments stay fresh and cool. In this guide, we’ll explore the 15 best backpack coolers on the market, each offering unique features and benefits.
1. YETI Hopper BackFlip 24
Durability Meets Superior Cooling
YETI is known for producing some of the toughest coolers on the market, and the Hopper BackFlip 24 is no exception. This backpack cooler is designed with high-density fabric that resists punctures, mildew, and UV rays. Its ColdCell insulation is the key to keeping your items chilled for an extended period, even in sweltering conditions.
The Hopper BackFlip 24 has a comfortable, ergonomic design that makes carrying heavy loads easier on your back. Its Hydrolok Zipper is waterproof and airtight, ensuring no leaks. The wide-mouth opening makes loading and unloading effortless. This cooler is perfect for day-long adventures and can hold up to 20 cans with ice.
2. Hydro Flask Day Escape Soft Cooler Pack
Lightweight and High-Performing
Hydro Flask is synonymous with high-quality, insulated products, and the Day Escape Soft Cooler Pack is no different. This cooler backpack is lightweight yet offers superior insulation that keeps your drinks cold for over 36 hours. The True Access hinged top opens wide, providing easy access to your items without compromising its cooling abilities.
Its lightweight construction and padded shoulder straps make it a breeze to carry, even when fully loaded. This cooler is ideal for day trips and can hold up to 36 cans without ice. The rugged exterior is abrasion-resistant, and the welded seams prevent leaks.
3. Igloo Reactor 24-Can Backpack
Value Meets Functionality
The Igloo Reactor is a versatile backpack cooler that offers an excellent balance of price and performance. It can hold up to 24 cans and keep them cold for up to two days. The insulated lining is thick yet flexible, allowing you to pack your cooler tightly without worrying about losing cooling efficiency.
The Reactor is constructed from durable, water-resistant materials, making it suitable for outdoor activities. The adjustable straps and padded back panel provide comfort during long treks, and the front zippered pocket is perfect for storing small items like utensils or keys.
4. OtterBox Trooper LT 30 Cooler
Premium Insulation for Extended Trips
OtterBox is famous for its rugged phone cases, but the Trooper LT 30 Cooler showcases their expertise in creating durable outdoor gear. This backpack cooler features a leak-proof seal and premium-grade insulation that can keep ice frozen for up to three days. Its large capacity allows you to pack up to 30 cans with ice, making it ideal for multi-day adventures.
The Trooper LT 30 is also designed with convenience in mind. The wide-mouth opening provides easy access to your contents, while the adjustable shoulder straps and back panel ensure comfort during extended use. The exterior is built from tough TPU-coated nylon, which is waterproof and resistant to punctures.
5. TOURIT Cooler Backpack
Budget-Friendly and Practical
If you’re looking for an affordable yet reliable cooler backpack, the TOURIT Cooler Backpack is a fantastic option. It can hold up to 30 cans and offers decent insulation that keeps your items cold for up to 16 hours. The exterior is made from high-density, water-resistant fabric that protects against the elements.
This backpack cooler is lightweight and features padded shoulder straps for added comfort. It also has multiple compartments, including a front zipper pocket, two side mesh pockets, and a bungee cord on the front for additional storage. The TOURIT Cooler Backpack is a great choice for casual outings or day trips.
6. Carhartt Cooler Backpack
Durability for the Toughest Conditions
Carhartt is a brand synonymous with durability, and their Cooler Backpack lives up to that reputation. Constructed from heavy-duty, water-repellent polyester, this backpack is built to withstand harsh outdoor environments. It can hold up to 24 cans and keeps them cold for up to 24 hours.
The Cooler Backpack features a large main compartment, an insulated front pocket, and two side pockets for extra storage. The shoulder straps are padded and adjustable, ensuring a comfortable fit. Whether you’re on a job site or a rugged outdoor adventure, this cooler backpack will keep your refreshments chilled.
7. Coleman Soft Backpack Cooler
Affordable and Convenient
Coleman is a trusted name in outdoor gear, and their Soft Backpack Cooler offers excellent value for money. It can hold up to 28 cans and keep them cold for up to 24 hours. The main compartment is insulated with leak-proof, heat-welded seams to prevent any spills.
The Coleman Soft Backpack Cooler is designed for comfort with adjustable, padded shoulder straps and a sternum strap to distribute weight evenly. The front pocket and side mesh pockets provide additional storage space for snacks or accessories. This backpack cooler is ideal for casual outings, picnics, or day hikes.
8. IceMule Pro Backpack Cooler
Innovative Design and Portability
The IceMule Pro is a roll-top backpack cooler that offers exceptional portability and cooling performance. Its unique design features a leak-proof, air-tight construction that allows you to inflate the cooler for extra insulation. This design keeps ice frozen for over 24 hours.
The IceMule Pro can hold up to 18 cans with ice, and its soft-sided, collapsible design makes it easy to store when not in use. The padded straps and ventilated back panel ensure comfort during long hikes. Its waterproof and buoyant construction makes it an excellent choice for water-based activities like kayaking or rafting.
9. Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze Backpack Cooler
Stylish and Functional
The Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze Backpack Cooler combines a sleek design with advanced insulation technology. This cooler features the brand’s Deep Freeze high-performance insulation, which keeps items cold for up to two days. The interior is lined with a leak-proof, Microban-treated lining that resists stains and odors.
This backpack cooler can hold up to 24 cans, and the Rhino-Tech exterior is tough, water-resistant, and easy to clean. The Titan Deep Freeze also includes multiple pockets, an adjustable Backsaver shoulder strap, and a padded back panel for comfort. It’s a stylish and functional option for day trips or weekend getaways.
10. Pelican Dayventure Backpack Cooler
Rugged Build for Extreme Conditions
Pelican is known for producing rugged outdoor gear, and the Dayventure Backpack Cooler is no exception. This cooler is constructed from high-density, water-resistant materials that withstand extreme conditions. It features a leak-proof zipper and closed-cell foam insulation that keeps items cold for up to two days.
The Pelican Dayventure can hold up to 12 cans with ice in its main compartment, plus additional drinks or snacks in the front storage compartment. The backpack design includes padded shoulder straps, a sternum strap, and a breathable back panel for comfort during long hikes. This cooler is ideal for those who need a reliable, heavy-duty option.
11. REI Co-op Cool Trail Pack Cooler
Eco-Friendly and Functional
The REI Co-op Cool Trail Pack Cooler is an excellent choice for those who prioritize eco-friendliness. Made from recycled materials, this backpack cooler offers a sustainable way to keep your items cold on the go. It can hold up to 24 cans and offers insulation that keeps them chilled for up to 24 hours.
The Cool Trail Pack Cooler features a large main compartment with a leak-proof liner that is easy to remove and clean. The exterior includes multiple pockets for storage and attachment points for gear. The padded shoulder straps and back panel provide comfort, making it a great option for hiking or day trips.
12. RTIC Backpack Cooler
High Capacity and Long-Lasting Cooling
RTIC is known for their high-performance coolers, and their Backpack Cooler is no exception. This cooler offers a high capacity, holding up to 40 cans with ice. The thick insulation keeps items cold for up to three days, making it ideal for extended trips.
The RTIC Backpack Cooler is constructed from durable, waterproof fabric with leak-proof zippers. The padded shoulder straps, chest strap, and back panel provide comfort, even when carrying heavy loads. The cooler also features multiple pockets for organization and storage. This is a top choice for those needing a high-capacity, long-lasting cooler.
13. Engel HD30 Waterproof Soft-Sided Cooler
Heavy-Duty and Waterproof
The Engel HD30 Waterproof Soft-Sided Cooler is built for serious outdoor enthusiasts. Its welded seams and waterproof construction ensure that your items stay dry and cold, even in the harshest conditions. The closed-cell foam insulation keeps ice frozen for up to four days.
This cooler can hold up to 24 cans with ice and features a large, easy-access opening. The Engel HD30 includes adjustable shoulder straps, a padded back panel, and multiple pockets for extra storage. Its rugged design makes it perfect for fishing trips, camping, or any adventure where you need reliable cooling.
14. Dakine Party Pack Cooler
Versatile and Stylish
The Dakine Party Pack Cooler is a versatile option that combines style with functionality. This backpack cooler is perfect for social gatherings, offering enough space to hold up to 20 cans with ice. The insulated main compartment keeps your drinks cold, while the front pocket provides storage for utensils or snacks.
The Party Pack Cooler also includes a dedicated pocket for a water bottle or other essentials. The padded shoulder straps and back panel offer comfort during use, and the stylish design makes it a great choice for both outdoor adventures and casual outings.
15. Columbia PFG Skiff Guide
Zipperless Design for Easy Access
The Columbia PFG Skiff Guide Zipperless Cooler Pack offers a unique, zipperless design that allows for quick and easy access to your items. This cooler features ThermaCool high-performance insulation that keeps items cold for up to two days. The main compartment can hold up to 20 cans with ice.
The cooler pack is made from durable, water-resistant fabric with a HardBody liner that provides structure and protection for your items. The padded shoulder straps and back panel ensure comfort, while the multiple exterior pockets offer additional storage. This cooler is perfect for anglers, hikers, or anyone who needs quick access to their chilled items.
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Conclusion
Choosing the best backpack cooler depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you need a high-capacity cooler for extended trips or a lightweight option for day hikes, there’s a backpack cooler on this list that will meet your requirements. Consider factors like insulation performance, durability, and comfort when making your decision. With the right backpack cooler, you can enjoy cold refreshments no matter where your adventures take you.