10 Best Backpack Coolers in 2023 – Buyer’s Guide

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In general, the best backpack cooler has a large internal space that is fully enclosed and typically has two mesh side pockets on the outside that could be in the shape of a zipper pocket and a bungee on the front to allow extra room for the backpack. Cooler backpacks easily carry ice, beer, and food to the campsite, lake, or hiking trail. But each cooler comes with both benefits and inconveniences.

We found in our study that the preservation of ice is not the main feature of a cooler backpack. Key attributes for cooler backpacks were portability and comfort. Once you fill a whole backpack full of ice, water, and beer it quickly gets heavy. Backpack coolers are lightweight for the most part, so you’ll probably use it for a short time and for short trips where you don’t want to bring too much baggage.

In a Hurry? The test winners after 8 hrs of research

Best Backpack Coolers – Overview

Over the years coolers have come a long way. You’re no longer trapped in the grocery store with small styrofoam coolers. They can now store ice for almost a week, retain hot foods and cold drinks, and the coolers have become more compact. Get ready for best backpack coolers you should put on your back— whether you’re hitting the beach, working long days outdoors, or just wanting to have a cold drink.

Backpack Coolers Reviews

1. Polar Bear Coolers Backpack Cooler – Premium Pick

Many soft coolers look alike, but that is where the similarities end. It’s what’s on the inside that really counts. The Polar Bear Cooler’s patent-pending design consists of several features that are essential to the longevity and proper functionality of a performance soft cooler. The Polar Bear Coolers Backpack Cooler houses one-inch-thick 10 gauge high-density foam insulation, capable of keeping your beverages cold up to 24 hours even in 100+ degree heat. The interior liner is made of TPU Double-Coated Nylon, which is the most durable and longest-lasting liner ever built into a soft cooler.

All seams are double hemmed and anchor stitched with a 1000-denier luggage grade nylon outer shell. The zippers are also made from heavy-duty YKK #10 that is weatherized zipper (rustproof). Heavy-duty YKK side release buckles, zippers, and tie-downs. 4 tie downs (2 on each side) and the included padded shoulder strap make traveling with your Polar Bear Coolers a breeze. The bottom saddle is a staple of the Polar Bear brand that gives great support and durability to conform sturdiness once you have packed your cooler.

Key Features:

• 24 hours insulation in 100+ degree heat
• TPU Double Coated Nylon for the interior
• 1000-denier luggage grade nylon outer shell
• Super heavy-duty YKK #10 weatherized zipper
• 4 tie downs (2 on each side) and the included padded shoulder strap

Specifications:

• Brand: Polar Bear Coolers
• Dimensions: 18″ H x 12″ W x 7″ D
• Weight: 3.5 lbs

2. YETI Hopper Backflip 24 Soft Sided Cooler Backpack

The YETI Hopper Backflip 24 Soft Sided Cooler Backpack fuses the durability of the Hopper Flip with a new, convenient-to-carry design. It’s our first cooler engineered to carry as a backpack, using the best tech of both worlds. Built taller and wider than its Hopper Flip counterparts, Hopper BackFlip is designed to efficiently distribute the weight of your goods, while the ergonomic shoulder straps make the journey more comfortable.

Even more, a removable chest strap and waist belt are included for added stability and security. And like the rest of the Hopper family, it promises superior cold-holding, a 100% leakproof zipper, and a tough DryHide Shell. So, go ahead and trek to your favorite faraway fishing destination, because this backpack cooler won’t slow you down.

Key Features:

• Big enough to hold 20 cans with a 2:1 ice-to-can ratio.
• Closed-cell rubber foam
• High-density fabric is waterproof and resistant to mildew, punctures, and UV rays
• Removable chest strap and waist belt 

Specifications:

• Brand: YETI
• Dimensions: 19″ H x 13″ W x 8″ D
• Weight: 5.3 lbs

3. IceMule Pro Insulated Backpack Cooler Bag

The IceMule Pro Insulated Backpack Cooler Bag is engineered to be the most portable, high-performance soft cooler around and is available in a variety of sizes to ensure that whatever the occasion, your drinks and refreshments stay ice cold all day long. The ICEMULE closure system is designed without zippers and welded seams, meaning no leaky zippers and easy access to load and unload the cooler. It is big enough to hold 18 cans plus ice, perfect for a day on the boat or a tailgate before the game

The ICEMULE Pro is a backpack style cooler that comfortably straps to your back, leaving hands and arms free. ICEMULE backpack coolers feature double padded and ventilated straps for effortless hands-free carrying. Forget bulky ice boxes, an ICEMULE backpack cooler rolls, and stores easily when not in use. This soft-sided cooler is fully collapsible, perfect for traveling to your destination.

Key Features:

• Retain up to 24 hours cold
• Roll-top design
• IM Airvalve allows you to release air so that the cooler can roll up
• MuleSkinET rugged exterior fabric
• Big enough to hold up to 18 cans plus ice

Specifications:

• Brand: IceMule
• Capacity: 23L
• Dimensions: 17″ H x 14″ W x 11″ D
• Weight: 3.1 lbs

4. Igloo Daytripper Collection – Best Value

Take the party with you in a fashionable, functional tote or backpack cooler with multi-party pack-in sets designed for different destinations. Insert the top compartment’s removable divider to securely transport your favorite wine and pack the pockets with corkscrews and other sommelier staples. Make your day trip the ultimate celebration with the Igloo Daytripper Collection.

Bottle opener conveniently located on the right backpack strap and front pocket hold the included bamboo cutting board. Extra dry storage pockets on the sides for carrying along with your phone, key, wallet, extra drinks, snacks and water bottle along with your phone, keys, wallet, extra drinks, snacks, and water bottle. Lastly, the bottom insulated food compartment is always accessible, even when the lid is down the lid flap includes a plastic container for your snacks

Key Features:

• Soft Side Insulated Picnic Tote with detachable 50″ crossbody strap
• Two main compartments with a push-aside divider
• Extra dry storage pockets on the sides
• Bottom insulated food compartment

Specifications:

• Brand: Igloo
• Dimensions: 12.8″ H x 12.5″ W x 9.1″ D
• Weight: 3.3 lbs

5. Coleman C003 Soft Backpack Cooler

Keep your food and snacks cool from the park to the campsite with a Coleman C003 Soft Backpack Cooler. This stylish bag is large enough to hold 28 cans. Extra padding in the back and waist make it even easier to carry over almost any distance. The BPA- and phthalate-free, the heat-welded main compartment is perfect for using with ice and the zippered front pocket lets you store extra snacks and small gear.

The bungee cord on the front also provides quick access to other items. Antimicrobial, product-protecting properties are built into the flexible lining to resist odor, mold, and mildew, making it easy to clean between uses.

Key Features:

• Heat-welded seams prevent leaks 
• Adjustable comfort shoulder straps
• Large side handles 
• Multiple pockets
• Holds up to 28 cans

Specifications:

• Brand: Coleman
• Dimensions: 19.38″ H x 14.76″ W x 1.78″ D
• Weight: 1.06 lbs

6. TOURIT Leak-Proof Soft Sided Cooler Backpack

Whether you have a strong interest in road/ beach trips, picnics or daily hiking, the TOURIT Leak-Proof Soft Sided Cooler Backpack is your best partner for all types of outdoor activities. To ensure you feel ultimate comfort and portability, the padded shoulder straps and the rear of the insulated backpacks are made very well. It features a waterproof and tough shell, to ensure it can hold its own when faced with the hazardous wild.

To ensure this soft backpack with cooler leak-proof and own advanced cooling performance, they use an airtight zipper which may be a little tight when you first use it. You can use the TOURIT lubricant which is provided to make the zipper slide more easily. The ergonomic shoulder straps make the journey more comfortable. Even more, an adjustable chest strap is included for added stability and security.

Key Features:

• Can hold at least 36 cans with ice
• 3-layer insulation material in BPA-Free and FDA approved quality materials
• Airtight & water-proof zipper with easy pull tab 
• Waterproof and tough shell

Specifications:

• Brand: TOURIT
• Dimensions: 19.1″ H x 17.8″ W x 11.9″ D
• Weight: 4.6 lbs

7. OAGear Backpack 20 Can Cooler

The OAGear Backpack 20 Can Cooler has enough space to hold 20 cans, plus even more room for ice. Load it up for a day at the beach or a tailgating session before a game and all your goodies will stay cold. Along with the large insulated interior space, the pack has two outside mesh side pockets, one front zipper pocket and a bungee on the front for extra storage. It also has adjustable padded backpack straps and a carry handle on top.

Whether it is another hand, some camp chairs, or your favorite lawn game we know that you probably have more important things to carry than a cooler. Padded shoulder straps ensure you will get to your tailgate party or your kids soccer game with comfort. This cooler backpack is the perfect size to keep the drinks and snacks available all day. Its size is just right for those long sports tournaments or a relaxing picnic.

Key Features:

• Holds 20 Cans plus ice!
• Heat-sealed no-leak liner
• Two mesh side pockets
• Padded backpack straps

Specifications:

• Brand: OAGear
• Dimensions: 16.5″ H x 12.25″ W x 7.75″ D
• Weight: 1.2 lbs

8. Igloo Outdoorsman Gizmo Backpack

Stay mobile and keep your items cool with the Igloo Outdoorsman Gizmo Backpack. Stop lugging around your cooler to the game and beach. Featuring adjustable, padded air mesh comfort straps for hands-free carrying convenience with sternum straps to distribute the load.

MaxCold insulation with 25% more foam to keep food and drinks cooler longer. The side mesh pocket with an elastic strap buckle to keep beverage bottles from falling out. Padded back pocket accommodates flat, dry items like books, magazines, e-readers, etc.

Key Features:

• Adjustable, padded air mesh comfort straps
• Side mesh pocket with elastic strap buckle
• Padded back pocket
• Leak-resistant, antimicrobial liner
• Can carry up to 32 cans

Specifications:

• Brand: Igloo
• Dimensions: 17″ H x 12″ W x 10″ D
• Weight: 1.6 lbs

9. TOURIT Insulated Backpack Cooler

Whether you have a strong interest in road trips, picnics or daily hiking, the TOURIT Insulated Backpack Cooler is your best choice for all types of outdoor events. This cooler bag uses high quality thicken PEVA hot-pressed material to keep your snacks and drinks cool for 16 hours temperature below 15℃（with Freeze Packs). The main storage compartment is large enough to provide roomy capacity for your beers, juice, sandwiches or other food.

2 front zipper pocket can be used for your chip bags, travel wallet or other small accessories which can be easily accessed and 2 bottle holders on the side that worked nicely for your water bottle or umbrella. The inner insulation thickened foam and leak-proof liner work together to make sure anti-leaking.

Key Features:

• Holds up to 28 cans
• 2 side mesh pockets
• Adjustable, padded shoulder straps
• Keeps cool up to 16 hours

Specifications:

• Brand: TOURIT
• Capacity: 25L
• Dimensions: 17.7″ H x 13″ W x 7.5″ D
• Weight: 1.1 lbs

10. ONIVA – a Picnic Time Brand Turismo Insulated Backpack Cooler

The ONIVA – a Picnic Time Brand Turismo Insulated Backpack Cooler is made from durable polyester canvas and sports more pockets than you can shake your hiking stick at! Two large insulated interior compartments keep your food and drink warm or cool, and a multi-use mesh pocket, a zippered pocket hidden under the exterior flap, and a large carabiner utility clip give you unlimited options for stowing your gear.

Non-slip, padded backpack straps, and a padded handle grip keep you trekking in comfort, while the detachable water bottle duffel with adjustable shoulder strap means you don’t have to stop along the trail to stay hydrated.

Key Features:

• Non-slip padded backpack straps
• Padded handle grip
• Detachable water bottle duffel with shoulder strap
• Multiple pockets house all your stuff

Specifications:

• Brand: ONIVA – a Picnic Time Brand
• Dimensions: 19″ H x 16″ W x 5″ D
• Weight: 2.5 lbs

Buying Guide

Ice Retention

First of all, the whole point of buying a backpack is that it cools the food and beverage you have and keeps it that way for the remainder of your journey. This is why ice retention is an important factor in your purchasing decision. So the standards for what constitutes good ice preservation can vary depending on the type of backpack cooler you’re looking for. When you purchase a luxury cooler bag, our knowledge indicates that preservation of ice for at least 48 hours is a good standard to start with. Less than that, then it would be considered a cheap backpack.

Comfort

Are you going to need to have it on you for hours or days? Do you have to take lots of items in the cooler? If this is the case, you might want to find a cooler backpack with a little more padding when it comes to straps.

Pockets

Who doesn’t need additional space? Whether it’s internal or external, it’s important to have more room on the outside for water bottles, etc. If you’re going to hide a twelve-pack until you get to the campsite, or if you’re loading up all the food for your three-day trip, you’ll want additional pockets in your bag to carry it, and you’ll want to make sure that other objects in your pack don’t crush other stuff.

Size

Are you looking for an XL type / Do you have minimal needs? Think about how much that pack can weigh when it’s loaded with food and drink. The max weight you can carry will also depend on the size of the backpack cooler you’re picking, so choose wisely.

Durability

If you’re looking for a premium quality backpack cooler, then you want to make the material to be nylon with at least 600 TPU. At that durability, you know it’s going to be immune to tears, punctures and UV radiation. You also want a leak-proof zipper to make it waterproof. As for the inside, you want a food-grade lining approved by the FDA that is resistant to mildew and also leak-proof. Now, you don’t have to worry about getting ruined by putting wet stuff inside.

Frequently Ask Questions

How long will a backpack cooler stay cold?

The answer is dependent on multiple factors; for example, how much ice did you pack? Is the color of your backpack a dark color? (Darker colors retain more heat, which warms up your pack’s interior a little faster.) Much of the cold preservation depends on how you use it. Make sure it’s locked as soon as possible, so you easily clear things from it, and drain any water that’s collected from the ice (otherwise you’re only sweating out the water and losing the cold).

Can backpack coolers hold ice?

Yes but you’ve got to be careful with how you do it. If you’re trying to pack small, and you’re jamming a lot of ice in the bag, a puddle of water can inevitably chill you. They will keep the ice, and well, but at any moment, you must be careful to remove any excess water. Otherwise, you’re probably going to be wasting ice.

Can backpack coolers be flatted for travel?

If the backpack cooler is not fitted with a rigid inner lining, it may typically be flattened to position it in a backpack, or more conveniently placed in the car for transport. Those backpack coolers with a rigid liner could not be flatted, but that is part of what makes them efficient for insulation.

Conclusion

We hope this guide was helpful for finding the best backpack coolers as well as our guide on features to look for in a backpack cooler. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this guide, feel free to let us know in the comments section.