If you’re looking for the best backpack coolers, you’ve come to the right place. If that’s the case, you’re not alone. People are increasingly choosing the best backpack coolers over regular coolers, and for good reason: they provide several benefits.
They’re wonderful for keeping food and beverages cold for hours, especially if you’re trekking or spending time outside. They’re also quite practical because they can be carried on your back, freeing up your hands. Many various brands, on the other hand, claim to keep your material cold for hours or even days.
But which one(s) will be able to meet the challenge? Which of the finest backpack coolers can withstand months of picnics, treks, skydiving, beach visits, family camping holidays, or longer expeditions? Don’t worry, I’m here to assist you.
I’ve put together a list of the 11 best backpack coolers that are both comfortable and built to withstand abuse while still performing their primary goal of keeping your belongings chilled and in good condition.
To help you determine which bag is ideal for you, this evaluation considers features, pricing, mobility, user reviews, and, of course, the pros and disadvantages of each bag.
Check out our top picks for the best convertible backpacks that are perfect for travel. Whether you’re looking for a backpack that can also be used as a carry-on bag or one that can be easily converted into a daypack, we’ve got you covered.
You’re sure to discover the right backpack cooler for your next excursion with a selection of sizes and features to pick from! Let’s get this party started!
Top 3 Picks
- Brand: YETI
- Color: Coral
- Item Weight: 3.2 Pounds
- Brand: Coleman
- Color: Evergreen
- Material: Other
- Manufacturer: SHRRADOO
- Color: A Grey
- Weight: 2 pounds
Top 11 Backpacks Coolers 2023
In a hurry? Here is a preview of the 11 best backpack coolers in 2023!
11 Best Backpacks Coolers 2023
1. Best overall: YETI Hopper Backflip 24 Soft-Sided Cooler Backpack
Top Product
YETI Hopper Soft Sided Backpack Cooler
Made for comfort, with MAGSHIELD ACCESS & COLDCELL INSULATION.
Check PriceSummary: The Yeti 24 backpack cooler is made for comfort and durability, with outstanding insulation to keep your liquids and food cold all day. The YETI Hopper Backflip 24 backpack cooler is one of the most trusted and trustworthy solutions on the market when it comes to backpack coolers.
This Hopper Backflip 24 is a terrific choice for having your beverages near to hand whether you’re going on a day hike or a week-long camping excursion. The outside is made of a tough Dryhide Shell that can withstand scratches, water, punctures, mildew, and even the sun’s UV rays, so you can count on it to last for years.
Most significantly, the pack’s ice retention is excellent, much better than most. You won’t have to worry about your food or drinks staying cold for long because the inside is properly insulated with closed-cell rubber foams.
Many studies on Yeti backpack coolers have shown that the BackFlip 24 can keep ice for up to 2-3 days. You also won’t have to be concerned about leaks. This cooler backpack is leak-proof and waterproof, thanks to its Hydrolock zipper since Yeti backpack coolers never let you down. This pack is also tall and wide enough to hold 18 beer cans or 25 pounds of ice.
- The product has also been positively reviewed, with only a few buyers taking exception to its premium and steep price
- There are no external pockets on the Backflip 24, which makes it difficult to carry other items like your phone, electronics, snacks, etc
2. Best Insulated: IceMule Boss 30L Backpack Cooler
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IceMule Boss 30 Liter 24 Can Outdoor Insulated Waterproof Backpack
It is rolled and built for the outdoors. Effortless Hands-Free Carry.
Check PriceThe IceMule Boss 30L backpack cooler is one of the finest on the market if you’re searching for a long-lasting cooler. The IceMule Boss 30L Backpack Cooler is a high-end backpack cooler with exceptional performance and durability.
It’s crafted with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, which shows in its capacity to keep ice cold for hours. It has a rectangular centre cooler compartment with 1.2′′ closed-cell PolarLayer XT insulating foam. This means it can keep ice for up to three days and has a 30L capacity, which is enough to carry about 24 cans plus ice.
As a result, the Icemule backpack cooler is ideal for any group excursion or outdoor activity, including camping, fishing, and hiking. Unlike Yeti Cooler’s backpack coolers, the Icemule backpack cooler incorporates bungee cords and three watertight external compartments!
This means you’ll have space for your phone, gadgets, sandwiches, and other cold goods while keeping them separate. Also, according to the majority of customer testimonials, this pack is really comfy.
The Boss has thick padded shoulder straps, a vented back, a well-padded hip belt, and a sternum strap, all of which make it pleasant to carry even when completely filled.
- I also appreciate the fact that this bag maintains its form even when empty, which is a significant benefit over other backpack coolers on the market
- When used as a daily pack, the Boss may become big and hefty, especially when fully loaded
3. Best for Durability: OtterBox Trooper 20 Cooler
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OtterBox Trooper Cooler
20-Quart capacity with food-grade interior liner; premium grade thermal insulation keeps ice frozen up to 3+ days depending on conditions
Check PriceSummary: The Trooper 20 has a big frame, but it’s a well-made cooler backpack that can keep you warm for up to two days. The OtterBox Trooper 20 is a heavy-duty cooler backpack that will keep your belongings cold for hours while you enjoy the great outdoors.
This cooler’s outside is composed of TPU laminated heavy-duty nylon, which makes it waterproof and resistant to UV rays, punctures, and chemicals. So, not only is this bad guy water-resistant, but he’s also puncture-resistant!
And, based on the numerous favourable evaluations that have accompanied this cooler, you can trust that it will hold its own against major companies such as Yeti and Pelican. This bad guy has excellent ice retention!
To keep the cold inside, the lid, walls, and base are all heavily insulated. It also includes an airtight seal for optimal insulation, so you can enjoy ice bliss for two or even three days without worrying about leaks.
The Trooper 20’s easy-to-open lid is one of its outstanding features. Its one-of-a-kind plastic flip-top lid and latch not only make the cooler stand out but also make loading and accessing goods within the cooler a breeze. It can even be opened and closed with only one hand!
- The Trooper comes in three colour schemes, has a bottle-opening multitool, and comes with a lifetime guarantee, ensuring that you get the most bang for your buck
- However, some reviewers have claimed that the Trooper 20 is not as comfy or flexible to tote about when it comes to carrying comfort
4. Most Stash Pockets: IceMule Pro Backpack Cooler
Top Product
ICEMULE Pro Collapsible Backpack
RUGGED AND VERSATILE, 24+ HOURS OF COOLING & HANDS FREE COOLER
Check PriceSummary: The IceMule Pro Backpack Cooler is a dependable and easy backpack cooler that will keep your food and drinks cold for up to 24 hours. The Pro, another IceMule cooler bag on this list, is ideal for keeping your food and beverages cool on lengthy walks or camping trips.
This cooler bag will keep your items cold for up to 24 hours thanks to its sturdy 1,000-denier tarpaulin covering and substantial insulation. Furthermore, because it is waterproof, you won’t have to worry about water seeping inside and destroying your food.
The IceMule Pro’s capacious 23-liter main compartment can contain up to 18 cans of ice, and its polar layer insulation guarantees that your ice stays frozen for hours.
- This Icemule backpack cooler has two cushioned mesh shoulder straps and a vented back panel, so it’s easy to carry even when it’s full and no matter how long you wear it on your back
- Even though the roll-top design and air-filling method take some getting used to, this backpack cooler will become your go-to for all your outdoor trips once you get the hang of it
5. Best Budget: Tourist Cygnini Cooler Backpack
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TOURIT Cooler Backpack 30 Cans Lightweight Insulated Backpack
600 Oxford+High-density Foam+Leak-proof Liner Leakproof Cooler Backpack: High-density Insulation material and leak-proof liner inside of the insulated backpacks work together to make sure anti-leaking and keep food hot/ cold for 16 hours with ice packs
Check PriceThe Tourist backpack cooler is a great value, comfortable, and well-insulated option. Don’t be fooled by the low price tag: There’s a reason why this high-quality outdoor is now Amazon’s best seller. It contains all of the high-performance features of the greatest backpack coolers but in a more relaxed and comfortable design.
You may transport your culinary things that need to be kept cold for hours in the PEVA lined inside since it is deep and waterproof (with Freeze Packs). Despite its size, reviews have stated that it can easily carry up to 20 cans, less than the 30 promised on the company’s website.
The TOURIST Backpack Cooler, unlike the more costly YETI Hopper, has many compartments for simple storage.
- There’s the main storage box, two side mesh pockets, and two huge front zipper pockets for your utensils
- It can only keep food cold/hot for 16 hours or less
6. Best Design: Corkcicle Eola Bucket Cooler Backpack
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Corkcicle Sling Crossbody Bag
Imported, Spot clean, Slick adjustable logo strap, Exterior cinch pocket fits 16oz – 40oz &Canteen
Check PriceThe Eola Bucket Cooler bag is ideal for trips to the park, the beach, or the pool. The Corkcicle Eola Bucket Cooler backpack is ideal if you want a backpack cooler that is both practical and fashionable.
To keep your food and beverages cool, the bag is lined with vegan leather and insulated with space-grade closed-cell foam insulation. The bag’s interior is coated with TPU for further durability, and it closes with a webbing strap system to keep everything safe.
This bag has cushioned, adjustable shoulder straps and reinforced handles for carrying comfort. It can accommodate either 12 cans or eight cans and two wine bottles. In addition, the bucket bag on the CORKCICLE prevents odour, mould, and mildew, making it ideal for outdoor use.
- Even better, the Eola bag does not appear to be cooler
- On a flight, it may also be used as a daypack or personal item
7. Best Diaper Cooler Pack: Petunia Pickle Bottom Axis Insulated Backpack
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Petunia Pickle Bottom Axis Backpack
THE PERFECT PLAYDATE PACK, FASHIONABLE & FUNCTIONAL & CRAFTED FOR YOU
Check PriceSummary: Keep your food, beverages, or breast milk cold with the Petunia Pickle Bottom Axis backpack. Are you looking for a charming diaper cooler bag to carry breast milk or food for your children? The Petunia Pickle Bottom Axis Insulated Backpack is the answer.
This multi-purpose backpack has a front zipped pocket, as well as a top and a bottom compartment that can be used to store everything you need for a day out with the kids.
With the use of an ice pack, the top compartment can hold most breast pumps and attachments, while the insulated bottom area keeps your food, beverages, or breast milk cool. An insulated zipped bottle compartment, a front zippered pocket, and an open magazine pocket are located on the exterior.
- It has broad, adjustable shoulder straps for carrying comfort as well as a robust top grab handle for hands-free carrying
- You may always stroll out in elegance with this beauty
8. Best for the Beach: Coleman 24-Can Leak Proof Soft Cooler Bag
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The Coleman 24 Cooler backpack is simple, functional, and provides enough insulation. The Coleman 24-Can Cooler Bag is ideal for keeping food and beverages cool while on the road. The bag claims to keep your products cold for up to 34 hours and contains up to 24 cans, plus it has a sensible weight and basic style.
Nonetheless, according to some Amazon reviewers, the bag’s insulation mechanism isn’t ideal, since it can only hold ice for a few hours owing to the weak insulation in the interior. Its mix of simplicity and mobility, though, is what makes it a game-changer. Thanks to its versatility, you can easily carry a whole day’s worth of food and drink on your back.
- The front zip pocket and side mesh pockets are ideal for storing dry items and accessories, and the bungee straps on the lid add to the storage choices
- You won’t need a bottle opener
9. Best for Picnics: Grateful Dead Dancing Bears Daytripper Backpack
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Igloo 18-Can Limited Edition Grateful Dead Collectors Cooler Backpack
Special-edition Grateful Dead backpack cooler bag. MaxCold insulation – keeps cooler longer
Check PriceSummary: The Daytripper is a great backpack cooler for keeping your beverages and munchies cool while you’re out having fun. Are you looking for a backpack cooler that’s ideal for picnics, excursions, and wine tastings? The Grateful Dead Dancing Bears Daytripper backpack cooler is what you need.
This fashionable backpack boasts a tie-dye fabric and the classic dancing bears artwork from the band’s legendary albums, making it ideal for any Deadhead. This bag has two cooler pockets for keeping your beverages and perishable things separate and refrigerated.
The main compartment can accommodate wine bottles or other heavy objects, while the side slip pockets and utensil pockets provide extra storage for essentials such as keys, phones, wallets, and, of course, utensils.
The two side pockets on the outside are even big enough to store water bottles. Plus, even if the backpack becomes wet, the Igloo-designed dry storage pouch protects your valuables secure and dry. In terms of comfort, it is also one of the best backpacks available.
The shoulder straps are adjustable, and there is also a sternum strap, so you may easily carry the bag while still getting adequate support.
- The addition of a built-in bottle opener is super convenient and is accessible from one of the exterior pockets
- When the flap is not properly fastened, this results in less insulation
10. Best Lightweight: Piscifun Insulated Cooler Backpack
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Piscifun Insulated Cooler Backpack
Lightweight and Durable, Leakproof and Easy to Clean & 18 Hours Cold
Check PriceSummary: With the Piscifun backpack, you can carry as much gear as you want without sacrificing mobility or comfort. For picnics, days at the beach, or any time you need to keep food and beverages cool, the Piscifun Insulated Cooler Backpack is a perfect choice.
The pack’s enormous capacity and leakproof construction allow you to keep 20 cans of food cold for up to 18 hours or less using freeze packs, making it one of the finest backpack coolers.
The pack is well-made and lightweight, allowing you to fit a lot of stuff inside it. The bag is composed of high-density nylon fabric, which makes it extremely durable. There are also two side compression straps to assist in better dispersing the weight and make the bag more comfortable.
- Even better, this one resembles a backpack rather than a cooler pack, so you can use it for everything from picnics to day excursions
- It has been mentioned that this bag has zipper problems and does not retain ice for long in some reviews
11. Best for Hiking: ROCK BROS Waterproof Backpack Cooler
Top Product
SHRRADOO Anti Theft Laptop Backpack Travel Backpacks
LOTS OF STORAGE SPACE, POCKETS, FUNCTIONAL, SAFE & USB PORT DESIGN
Check PriceIn comparison to competitors, the ROCKBROS Backpack Cooler is not just large (20L/ 36 cans), but also robust and reasonably priced. The Rockbros waterproof backpack is an excellent catch if you want a good cooler at a low price compared to other premium coolers.
The 840D Nylon + TPU shell and an extra airtight zipper make the bag completely waterproof. What’s the end result? Your items will be leak-proof and have a cool duration of more than 48 hours.
Because a backpack cooler should not only be highly insulated but also pleasant to carry, this one has padded shoulder straps and a cushioned back shell, making it a breeze to transport.
- Plus this 20L cooler backpack can fit at least 36 cans with ice, allowing you to pack enough for picnics, road/ beach trips, BBQ, hiking, camping, cycling, and more
- Plus, there’s more. You can only purchase this kid in one of two colours: grey or green
Buyer’s Guide: How to choose the Best Backpack Coolers in 2023
There are a few things you need to consider before making a final decision on the best backpack coolers in 2023.
Insulation and Ice Retention
When purchasing a backpack cooler, this is likely the most critical thing to consider. To keep your contents cold for hours, consider a backpack cooler with strong insulation and a solid seal (or even days).
To keep things cold, the finest backpack coolers employ a strong layer of foam insulation. Your ice will stay longer if the insulation is thicker. It’s also crucial to ensure sure the insulation is equal and constant throughout the cooler, which isn’t simply about thickness.
You’ll get the most ice retention this way, and your meal will stay nice and cool. Your ice will melt faster if there are any weak places or holes in the insulation. The basic message is that you must pay attention to the thickness and evenness of the foam insulation if you want your backpack cooler to work at its optimum.
So, insulation is essential if you’re searching for the finest backpack coolers to keep your food and beverages cool all day!
Size & capacity
The finest backpack coolers should be the proper size for your needs, thus size and capacity are crucial considerations. This is important because if you’re going on a lengthy vacation, you don’t want to have to carry more than one backpack cooler.
Make sure the backpack cooler you choose can hold all of the food, cans, and bottles you’ll need to keep cool. Additionally, the bag should have enough room to contain the extra ice you’ll need to keep your beverages cold for longer.
For example, a small backpack cooler like the Eola Bucket Cooler bag may store 12 cans of beer or a couple of sandwiches, but a bigger one could hold more. You won’t have to stop and refill your backpack cooler as often if you have a larger backpack cooler, which is very useful on long excursions.
Whether you’re going on a group walk or a two-person picnic excursion, the storage space should be plenty for your expedition and accommodate all of the supplies you’ll need.
Pockets & Compartments
There are several reasons why compartments and pockets in the finest backpack coolers are vital. First and foremost, they serve as a means of keeping everything in order. You may separate your dry products from your damp goods in two compartments.
This prevents items from becoming jumbled up and makes it easier to locate what you’re looking for. Second, compartments and pockets prevent items from sliding about excessively.
If you’re transporting delicate things like electronics or glassware, this is extremely crucial. Last but not least, exterior pockets are great for storing things like water bottles, maps, sunscreen, and snacks. The backpack can be balanced more evenly by keeping the items within easy reach.
Fit & Comfort
There are several reasons why the fit and comfort of backpack coolers should be a primary consideration when making a purchase. The first is that backpack coolers are less comfortable than standard packs since they are heavier, especially if you have a lot of gear or food to carry.
As a consequence, you should seek backpacks with hip and chest straps to assist in equally dispersing the weight. Ergonomic elements such as cushioning in the shoulder straps and ventilation in the back panel can also assist to make them more comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
You should also look for a pack that is tailored to your body, as this will give enough support and relieve stress on your back and shoulders. So, if you’re searching for a backpack cooler that can keep you cold on lengthy treks or camping vacations, seek one that has the attributes listed above.
Price
Some of the greatest backpack coolers are pricey, while others are inexpensive. The good news is that our assessment covers a wide range of price points. Although the higher-end choices are more costly, they are more durable and provide substantial insulation that lasts for hours or even days.
And if you’re searching for a budget-friendly best backpack cooler on Amazon or Target that’s just as competent as some of the more expensive models, TOURIST, Igloo, Coleman, and other manufacturers have you covered.
Surprisingly, the majority of the low-cost options evaluated here are Amazon bestsellers with excellent ratings and reviews, so you can rest certain that you’re in good hands. There’s something for everyone, regardless of their budget.
FAQs
Backpack coolers are beneficial for a variety of reasons. For starters, they may be really useful if you need to keep food and liquids cold for an extended period of time.
They are generally better insulated than normal coolers, allowing you to keep your food and drinks cold for extended periods of time – up to 24 hours in some situations.
If you’re moving perishable things or keeping meals cold for a big gathering of people, this is very crucial.
Furthermore, the finest backpack coolers allow you to keep your hands free.
Backpack coolers may be rather cumbersome. This is due to the fact that they are made to carry a lot of ice, beverages, and food, all of which are pretty heavy on their own.
In addition, the cooler’s insulation and dense materials add to its overall weight. So, if you’re planning on carrying a lot of gear on your trek or camping trip, expect your bag to be somewhat heavier than normal.
The loops on the finest backpack coolers are for securing additional stuff. This may be used to secure a water bottle, small blanket, flashlight, or even a tiny pocket to the exterior of the backpack for quick access.
The quantity and size of loops will, of course, vary from one backpack cooler to the next. However, they all serve the same purpose: to provide you with more storage alternatives when you’re on the road. The loops may also be used to secure and stabilise the backpack cooler by attaching it to other bigger bags or objects.
Final Thoughts
Isn’t it true that everyone desires a really comfortable, cool backpack with enough insulation? I understand, which is why I’ve hand-picked the 11 finest backpack coolers available at the greatest cost for you.
These will keep your food and beverages cool for hours, making them ideal for day trips, excursions, and everyday use.
The greatest premium value is the YETI Hopper Backflip 24 Soft-Sided Cooler Backpack, while the TOURIST Cooler 30 Can Backpack is the best value on a budget and for day travel.
Have I forgotten about your favourite? Please let me know in the comments section below! Also, make sure to read my comprehensive evaluation of the best sling bag for everyday carry.
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