Whether you’re gearing up for a beach day, a hiking adventure, or a simple picnic in the park, a cooler backpack is your ultimate companion for keeping drinks chilled and snacks fresh. Combining the portability of a backpack with the functionality of a cooler, these versatile bags are a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts and casual explorers alike.
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Lightweight, stylish, and practical, the best cooler backpacks offer superior insulation, ample storage, and hands-free convenience. From rugged designs built for tough trails to sleek options perfect for urban outings, there’s a cooler backpack to match every lifestyle. Ready to elevate your outdoor experiences? Discover the top picks that blend performance with practicality.
Top Best Cooler Backpack Reviews
Let’s look at some of the best 5 and get into their details!
#1. IceMule Pro Cooler 23L Backpack.
The IceMule Pro offers a slightly smaller capacity than the IceMule Boss, yet it delivers similar top-notch insulation at a more affordable price and with a unique design. This cylindrical cooler can be fully flattened and even rolled up, making it easy to stow in your carry-on for travel.
- RUGGED AND VERSATILE – From our proprietary…
- 24+ HOURS OF COOLING – Ultra-tough Muleskin…
- HANDS FREE COOLER – This lightweight,…
- COLLAPSIBLE DESIGN – When your cooler is empty…
- WATERPROOF & BUOYANT – Welded seams and…
When expanded, it comfortably holds 18 cans with ice—though we found we could fit closer to 24 cans with space for ice left over. During our two-hour test, the ice remained almost entirely frozen, a testament to its excellent insulation. The roll-top closure not only makes it easy to load with large or oddly shaped items, but it also creates a secure seal.
In testing, the inner fabric and seams were completely waterproof, though a small amount of water did seep out from the roll-top corners when the bag was placed on its side. One minor downside is the limited exterior storage; aside from an elastic strap for small items, there’s little additional space for extras.
#2. RTIC Insulated Portable Cooler 36 Can Backpack.
If you’re undecided about investing in a backpack cooler—especially since small coolers and the best camping coolers are generally easy to carry over short distances—the RTIC Soft Pack Backpack Cooler strikes a nice balance. It combines the hands-free convenience of a backpack cooler with the sturdy, structured design of a soft cooler, complete with haul handles.
- HANDS-FREE COOLER – The RTIC backpack cooler is…
- PREMIUM INSULATION – Built with premium…
- IT FLOATS TOO – Not to mention it’s a floating…
- 100% WATERPROOF – It’s the perfect ice cooler…
- DURABLE ZIPPER – The soft cooler backpack has a…
Unlike some backpack coolers that expand or contract depending on the load, the RTIC maintains its shape, so your beverages stay put once packed. This structure made it easy to locate items during testing, but it did impact carrying comfort. With its more rigid design, the weight of a fully loaded RTIC Soft Pack sits further from your body, which can place added pressure on your shoulders and potentially affect your balance.
#3. Yeti Hopper M20 Backpack Soft Sided Coolers.
As with many of their products, Yeti has mastered the details on their Hopper M20 Backpack Cooler, but this precision comes at a high price—over three times that of my best value pick and $100 more than my best overall pick. The Yeti Hopper M20 impressed in ice retention, tying for third place with the Monti Shasta in my tests.
- Carry up to 36 cans of your favorite beverage (or…
- MAGSHIELD ACCESS: Powerful magnets create an…
- COLDCELL INSULATION: Closed-cell foam offers…
- DRYHIDE SHELL: High-density fabric withstands…
- HITCHPOINT GRID: Securely attach your SideKick Dry…
Its latching system is particularly impressive: two buckles secure the roll-top closure for waterproof transport, and a magnetic closure automatically snaps shut, ensuring that the cooler remains sealed even when friends frequently access drinks at the beach. The magnetic closure works smoothly with minimal effort—a true standout feature.
The only drawback, aside from the steep price, is the stiffness of the shoulder straps out of the box, though they should soften over time. The M12 model is ideal for smaller outings, but the M20 is the go-to for larger groups. Both models deliver the same reliable performance, though the M20 offers dual handles for easier carrying and lacks a front pocket.
#4. Hydro Flask Day Escape Soft Insulated Cooler.
The Hydroflask Day Escape stands out as one of the most comfortable backpack coolers I’ve tested. It’s the cooler I’d choose for a day hike or any trek beyond a quick walk. Its comfort lies in its design—a wide, shallow frame that keeps the weight closer to your body, unlike models that are bulkier or more traditional in shape.
- 36 hours cold
- Watertight zipper and welded seams ensure…
- Durable 600D polyester shell is lightweight and…
- Padded mesh back panel and padded shoulder straps…
- Woven sternum strap and carry handles
Though it has just enough structure to handle heavier loads, the lack of a hip belt means it’s best not to overfill it for extended hikes. One handy feature is a haul handle, a rarity among backpack coolers, making it easy to store when not in use.
Along with comfort, the Day Escape boasts all the essentials of a top backpack cooler. It’s fully waterproof and kept ice for 37 hours in my insulation test—ample time for a day hike or picnic. I also appreciated the outer mesh pocket, which is great for small essentials or for holding a drink while on the go.
#5. IceMule Boss 30L Waterproof Backpack Cooler.
In our insulation test, coolers that retained some solid ice after two hours scored highly. The IceMule Boss exceeded expectations, with barely any melt, and the brand claims it keeps ice frozen for over 24 hours. With a large capacity, it easily holds two dozen cans plus ample ice.
- RUGGED AND VERSATILE – From our proprietary…
- 24+ HOURS OF COOLING – Ultra-tough Muleskin…
- HANDS FREE COOLER – This backpack-style cooler…
- EASY ACCESS INTERIOR – Roll-top design opens…
- WATERPROOF & BUOYANT – Welded seams and…
The IceMule Boss excels in storage, featuring spacious compartments on each side, an even larger one on the back, and an array of straps, loops, and clips for attaching extra gear. However, all this storage and capacity come with trade-offs: the pack is bulky and quite heavy when filled. Just the liquid in 24 cans adds about 18 pounds, before accounting for the weight of ice or the aluminum cans.
This was the priciest backpack cooler we tested, but the quality of its materials and construction stood out. In our drop test, both the cans and the pack emerged unscathed, showcasing its durability with welded seams, reinforced stitching, and a rugged exterior. Comfort wasn’t sacrificed, either—the padded shoulder straps, hip belt, and chest strap help distribute the weight evenly. There’s even an air valve to add buoyancy so the bag can float.
Conclusion
A cooler backpack isn’t just a bag; it’s a gateway to effortless outdoor fun. With the perfect blend of style, functionality, and insulation, it keeps your essentials fresh and your adventures hassle-free. Whether you’re hiking, picnicking, or tailgating, the best cooler backpack is your ultimate ally. Choose wisely, and let every outing be cooler—literally and figuratively!