EDITOR'S PICKS
MORE PICKS TO CHOOSE FROM
- Best Value | Igloo | Find On Target
- Best For The Beach | RTIC | Find On Amazon
- Best For Camping | Coleman | Find On Amazon
- Best For Picnic | Picnic Time | Find On Target
- Best Group/Family-Friendly Size | CamelBak | Find On Backcountry
- Best Portable Design And Best For Hiking | Oniva | Find On Target
- Most Stylish And Best Vegan-Friendly | Corkcicle | Find On Corkcicle
- Best For Water Activities | ICEMULE | Find On Amazon
Backpack coolers are versatile products designed to be carried and keep your perishable goods and beverages cold. They take the convenience of a traditional cooler and slap it with straps on it. Whether you want to enjoy some cold beverages on a longer hike or keep your perishable foods from going bad at the beach, a cooler backpack offers an ergonomic solution.
We have put together this guide to help you find the best backpack coolers. Armed with one of the selections below, you can take your delicious snacks and drinks along while you find the perfect spot to enjoy them.
What to Look for in a Insulated Cooler Backpack
With tons of cooler backpacks available, looking for the perfect one for you can be daunting. To help narrow down your search, here are some key features to consider.
Insulation
The main reason to get a backpack cooler is to keep your food and beverages cold while on the go. Uninsulated packs will spoil temperature-sensitive foods too quickly to enjoy. So, hunting for a cooler with high-quality insulation is a top priority.
Coolers typically use insulation made of foam to ensure that your items stay chilled for as long as possible. Cheaper coolers use styrofoam (extruded polystyrene), while premium coolers use heavier, thicker closed-cell foam but more effective, long-lasting, and durable polyurethane (PU). Backpack coolers are soft coolers and use open-cell foam to insulate, and it doesn't insulate better than closed-cell foam, but it provides flexibility.
To prevent future messes, consider a cooler with a leak-proof liner to prevent any melting ice or ice packs from seeping out.
Activity Type
Think about what you'll be using the cooler for. From kayaking to simply bringing back groceries, how you plan to use your cooler will narrow down what type to get.
Think about how much space you'll need and how easily you want to be able to access your food and beverages. Smaller, more compact models might be the way to go if you're planning on using the cooler for short hikes or day trips.
On the other hand, if you're going on a longer excursion, you'll want a larger cooler with more capacity to keep your food and beverages safe from the elements.
Strap System
A good strap system is essential for a backpack cooler because it will help distribute the weight evenly across your shoulders and back. Nobody wants (more) back pain, so look for a cooler with padded shoulder straps and a chest or waist strap for maximum comfort. With padded straps, you can carry the backpack cooler in comfort. Some will come with hip and sternum straps, allowing you to carry heavy items comfortably.
Durability
Investing in a cooler that falls apart after a few uses is a waste of time and money. Look for a model made with sturdy materials, like high-quality plastic or waterproof fabric, to make sure it can handle the rigors of outdoor adventures. Durability is a sticking point for a lot of people. Check out user reviews on the cooler you like and look for mentions of durability.
Capacity
The bigger, the cooler compartment, the more food and drinks you can fit. High-capacity coolers can carry more stuff but are generally bulkier and heavier when full. Consider how much food and drink you'll need to pack, then choose a cooler with enough room to accommodate your needs. Some models even have dividers, compartments, or specialized pockets for things like wine bottles, to help you keep things organized.
By taking the time to review these key features, you drastically lower the risk of buying a backpack cooler you won't enjoy.
11 Best Backpack Coolers
YETI Hopper Backpack Cooler
Best Overall
overall
Quality
Durability
Comfort
Cost
Features:
The YETI Hopper is our top choice for a high-quality, reliable backpack cooler. The brand has become a household name in the cooler market, both well-known and well-loved. Its rugged and durable construction helps it stand up to whatever nature's willing to throw at it. Coupled with reliable insulation and a comfortable strap system, the Hopper is perfect for the outdoors.
The Hopper has a leak-proof design and is made with tough, waterproof material, so you can take it anywhere without worrying about spills or leaks. Unlike many other backpack coolers on the market, the Yeti Hopper Backpack Cooler shell is made with high-density fabric that can withstand puncture and UV rays. There are also a series of hitch point grids on the outside that you can clip gear to, increasing the capacity even more. It can also hold up to 18 cans with a 2:1 ice-to-can ratio.
Material
Foam
Capacity
19.8 Liters
Dimensions
13.75" l x 10" w x 14.5" h
Pros:
Cons:
Picnic Time Tarana 12 qt Cooler Backpack
Runner Up
overall
Quality
Durability
Comfort
Cost
Features:
The Tarana is a stylish and convenient option that looks more like a backpack than a cooler. It has a 12.6-quart capacity, three storage compartments, and can hold up to 13 cans. It's a great fit for personal use or small groups.
Crafted using recycled material, each Tarana cooler backpack is made of 14 plastic water bottles and is the perfect choice for any environmentalist. The Tarana also has a leak-proof, easy-to-clean lining that is water-resistant and padded shoulder straps for added comfort. The Tarana is built with two compartments: a sturdy bottom half (ideal for six cans) and a soft top half (much like a floppy lunch bag). It also comes with two side pockets for water bottles. This hiking-and-beach-ready cooler bag is ready to explore the planet with you while protecting it too.
Material
100% Recycled Polyester, Plastic
Shell: 98% Recycled Polyester, 2% Plastic
Liner: Polyethylene Vinyl Acetate,
Capacity
12.66 Quart
Dimensions
16.93" h x 7.28" w x 11.22" d
Pros:
Cons:
TOURIT Backpack Cooler
Budget Friendly
overall
Quality
Durability
Comfort
Cost
Features:
For those on a tight budget, the TOURIT is a great choice. It has a lightweight and portable design, making it perfect for shorter trips. With a sleek modern look, the cooler can also double as a regular backpack.
Crafted using 600 oxfords, high density foam and leak proof liner, this cooler backpack can keep food hot/cold for 16 hours with ice packs. The TOURIT also has a highly praised leak-proof and insulated interior, as well as multiple well-sized pockets for organization and storage. It can hold up to 30 cans plus all your personal necessities, making it a convenient economic choice. Light yet durable, this cooler is perfect for work, picnics, road trips, hiking, camping, and so much more.
Material
600D Oxford, Foam
Capacity
330 Milliliters
Dimensions
13" l x 7.5" w x 15.8" h
Pros:
Cons:
Igloo Maxcold Evergreen Top Grip 9qt Backpack Cooler
Best Value
overall
Quality
Durability
Comfort
Cost
Features:
This Igloo Maxcold Evergreen Top Grip 9 qt Backpack Cooler offers great value for its price, and it is quite stylish too. The fashion-forward backpack cooler is more functional than your handbags and features multiple carry options.
Crafted from a vegan-friendly PU leather exterior with a gold metallic insulated antimicrobial liner that is easy to clean, this backpack cooler is "pretty cool." It has a 9-quart capacity and can hold up to 26 cans. It also has three extra mesh pockets on the outside for storage. The Maxcold cooler has a leak-proof design for its main compartment and is made with durable, easy-to-clean materials. It also has padded shoulder straps and a top handle for added convenience.
Material
Faux Leather
Liner: Easy Processing Polyethylene
Capacity
19.74 Quart
Dimensions
16" h x 11.75" w x 7" d
Pros:
Cons:
RTIC Backpack Cooler
Best for the Beach
overall
Quality
Durability
Comfort
Cost
Features:
The RTIC is a top choice for beach-goers. Its durable construction and reliable insulation make it perfect for long days on the sand. The best part is that it also floats! This means you can take the cooler on a boat or raft without worry.
Crafted with premium insulation that will keep your perishable cold for days. The RTIC cooler has a leak-proof design and can hold up to 20 cans. Like many backpack coolers, this one also has padded shoulder straps and a top handle for added use. This backpack cooler also floats, so you can take it with you on any adventure. Available in two different sizes and six different colors, you will find one that meets your style and needs.
Material
Polyester, Polystyrene Foam,
Capacity
20 cans
Dimensions
14.49" l x 16.97" w x 21.5" h
Pros:
Cons:
Coleman Soft Cooler
Best for Camping
overall
Quality
Durability
Comfort
Cost
Features:
Coleman is another popular name in the camping and outdoor world. This cooler is a great choice for those heading out to spend a night under the stars. It has a lightweight, portable design, making it easy to carry on longer treks.
Crafted from with extra foam for added insulation and durability. For easier cleaning, the antimicrobial-treated liner resists the forming of odor, mildew, and mold. The Coleman cooler has a leak-proof design, can hold up to 28 cans, comes with an integrated bottle opener, and has two side mesh pockets and a front flap pocket for extra storage. To top it off, this durable backpack cooler has excellent insulation; you can keep your food and drinks cold for up to 42 hours. Available in three different sizes so you can find one that meets your lifestyle and needs.
Material
N/A
Capacity
28 Liters
Dimensions
13.75" l x 8.5" w x 18" h
Pros:
Cons:
Picnic Time On-the-Go Traverse 34.65qt Cooler Backpack
Best for Picnic
overall
Quality
Durability
Comfort
Cost
Features:
The On-the-Go Traverse is a great choice for picnickers. It has a large 34.65-quart capacity, making it perfect for families and friend groups. The Traverse cooler has a leak-proof design and can hold up to 28 cans, making it one of the higher-capacity options on the list.
The On-the-Go Traverse also has padded shoulder straps, which you'll be thankful for if you're hauling 28 cans. It also has an ample accessories pocket for your personal items. Like others, there's also a top handle for that extra convenience. With features like an attachment harness, stretch side cargo storage, bottle opener, and a spacious front accessory pocket, you will never have to worry about having too many items.
Material
Polyester, PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride), Plastic
Capacity
34.65 Quart
Dimensions
15" h x 7" w x 12" d
Pros:
Cons:
CamelBak ChillBak Pack 30 Soft Cooler Hydration Center
Best Group/Family-Friendly Size
overall
Quality
Speed
Ease of Use
Cost
Features:
CamelBak is another outdoor name brand that got its start in the backpack hydration game. With the ChillBak Pack 30 Soft Cooler Hydration Center, they've come up with a sleek, stylish choice for larger groups. It has a 30-quart capacity, slightly smaller than the Picnic Time On-the-go Traverse cooler, but can still hold an impressive 24 beverages plus 6 liters of water for extra hydration.
The ChillBak cooler has a leak-proof design, a side pocket, extra straps to clip gear to, and a back panel compartment for the included 6L water reservoir. It also has padded shoulder straps, a top handle, and, most importantly, a hip belt for ultimate comfort for all that weight. The roll-top closure allows single-hand access while providing premium insulation, keeping your perishable cold for 72 hours and retaining ice for 72+ hours. With the side stretch pockets, you can place extra water bottles, snacks, or other essentials for easy access.
Material
Safer chemicals
Capacity
24 cans
Dimensions
N/A
Pros:
Cons:
Oniva On-the-Go Roll Top Cooler Backpack
Best Portable Design and Best for Hiking
overall
Quality
Durability
Comfort
Cost
Features:
The Oniva On-the-Go Roll Top is a top choice for those looking for portability, especially hikers. The cooler is compact, lightweight, and easy to sling over your shoulders, making it an obvious choice for long hikes or trips.
The Oniva cooler backpack has a leak-proof design and can hold up to 18 cans. The roll-top feature is great as well; if you leave it unrolled, the can capacity jumps up to 42. It also has padded shoulder straps, a top handle, multiple pockets, and an attached bottle opener. With the convenient side pockets, you can stick a water bottle and snacks in for easy access. When it's not in use, the backpack cooler is easily packable, and traveling with it is largely hassle-free.
Material
Plastic, Polyester, PVC
Capacity
42 cans
Dimensions
18.5" h x 12.5" w x 7.5" d
Pros:
Cons:
Corkcicle Eola Bucket Bag
Most Stylish and Best Vegan-Friendly
overall
Quality
Durability
Comfort
Cost
Features:
For those looking for a fashionable backpack cooler, the Eola Bucket Bag is a fantastic option. It has a stylish and versatile design, which is useful for a variety of occasions. Whether it's a sunny beach day or a picnic in the park, this bucket-style bag has you covered. The Eola Bucket bag's main compartment is fully zippered and has a back pocket for accessories.
The Eola is made with vegan leather (which looks quite classy) and has a leak-proof, insulated interior that is lined with a food-safe interior liner. It can hold up to 12 cans or 8 cans and two wine bottles. Featuring padded and adjustable backpack straps for comfort. With a rare accessory pocket with zippered closure, you can store away your essentials like wallets and keys. The smaller size capacity helps its portability, making it perfect for the city, suburbs, or great outdoors. Available in seven different colors so you will find one that fits your vibe.
Material
Neoprene
Capacity
12 cans or 8 cans and 2 wine bottles
Dimensions
16" l x 11.7" w x 11.7" h
Pros:
Cons:
ICEMULE Pro Collapsible Backpack Cooler
Best For Water Activities
overall
Quality
Durability
Comfort
Cost
Features:
If you love cold beverages or snacks during your water activities on a hot summer day, you must check out ICEMULE Pro Collapsible Backpack Cooler. Whether it is paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing, or boating, this collapsible, waterproof, and buoyant cooler is a game changer.
Crafted from ultra-tough proprietary MuleSkin fabric and PolarLayer Insulation that ensures strength and offers superior ice retention to maintain ice-like temperature for 24+ hours. Large enough to haul up to 18 cans and ice, making it a perfect size for a day on a boat, for your water adventure, or tailgate before a game. Designed with welded seams and zipper-less closure, this cooler is waterproof and buoyant with the UM AirValve that allows air to be added to the insulation layer, making the cooler buoyant enough to float. It features a padded sternum strap for support and an adjustable cross-body strap that allows you to carry it easily and comfortably on your back. Unlike the other soft coolers, the collapsible design allows you to roll it up and down easily. With different sizes and color options available, you can find one that fits your needs.
Material
N/A
Capacity
23 Liters
Dimensions
11.02" l x 14.17" w x 16.93" h
Pros:
Cons: