Whether or not you’re happening a picnic, a hike, or a brief tenting journey, a backpack cooler is a good piece of substances to have.
There are such a lot of cases during which it’s a ache to hold a standard cooler.
However a backpack cooler makes every part from picnics to boating a lot simpler and hassle-free.
Plus with new material know-how, at this time’s backpack coolers pack large ice retention, typically for a number of days.
However not each mannequin is appropriate for each state of affairs. We’ll go over lots of them to search out the very best backpack cooler for you, however listed below are our favorites:
Finest Backpack Cooler – Our High Picks
ICEMULE Urbano 30L
Weight: 4lbs | Capability (L): 30 lbs | Capability (cans): 20 + ice | Ice Retention (hrs): 24+ | Dimensions: 14.5 x 8.5 x 18 inches | Supplies: ripstop tarpaulin/vinyl/nylon
The ICEMULE Urbano positively stands out from the gang with its design.
It’s rugged and waterproof, however it appears so fashionable, nobody would ever suspect that it’s a cooler and never a daily backpack!
With a capability of 30L, it’s one of many largest fashions on the listing. It’s large enough to suit 18-20 cans of soda plus ice and not using a downside.
And with regards to ice retention, it may hold your meals and drinks at icy temperatures for greater than 24 hours.
Because of the welded seams and zipper-less closure, it is a 100% waterproof backpack cooler.
However what’s even cooler is that the IM AirValve permits air to be added to the insulation layer, which makes the cooler buoyant. So, it’s nice for water actions like kayaking.
Popping out on high with its smooth design and extra storage pockets, we love the ICEMULE Urbano.
Professionals
- Trendy and smooth as hell
- 30L capability – holds up 20 cans of soda, plus ice
- 24-hours of ice retention
- Utterly waterproof and buoyant for water actions resulting from IM AirValve
- Comfy padded shoulder straps and hidden inside pockets
Cons
- Waist belts are really useful when carrying a full cooler
Finest for: any/all outside actions that require a backpack cooler
ICEMULE Professional Giant
Weight: 3 lbs. 8 oz. | Capability (L): 23 lbs | Capability (cans): 18 + ice | Ice Retention (hrs): 24+ | Dimensions: 17 x 14 x 11 inches | Supplies: 1,000-denier ripstop tarpaulin/vinyl/nylon
The ICEMULE Professional Giant actually offers you the very best bang on your buck for a comfortable cooler.
At this value vary, it’s very troublesome to search out different coolers which have all of the options this one does.
This mannequin particularly is available in a number of sizes, however the giant one gives the very best worth.
It has a capability of 23L, which may match round 18 cans and ice, although we’ve discovered that it may maintain far more than its capability says it may.
This backpack cooler is specifically designed for water actions. It has welded seams and a zipper-less closure for true waterproofing.
It additionally floats on water like most ICEMULE fashions, so in case it falls into the water, you don’t have to fret about your meals and drinks sinking to the underside.
What’s additionally nice about this design is that it’s collapsible.
When you end all of your meals and drinks, you’ll be able to roll the cooler up and pack it for the subsequent journey.
Learn our full ICEMULE Professional evaluation right here.
Professionals
- Absolutely waterproof and nice for kayaking or different outside actions
- Can safely use the cooler round water with out worrying it is going to sink
- Collapsible design means that you can roll it up and pack it away when not in use
- Is available in a number of totally different colours, so you’ll be able to match it with the remainder of your gear
Cons
- Not the very best straps for a backpack cooler
Finest for: having fun with water actions
ICEMULE BOSS
Weight: 5 lbs | Capability (L): 30 lbs | Capability (cans): 24 + ice | Ice Retention (hrs): 24+ | Dimensions: 24 x 17 x 11 inches | Supplies: 3cm closed-cell PolarLayer XT Insulation, MuleSkin 1000-denier material
In case you’re prepared to take a position a bit extra, this premium mannequin by ICEMULE is value each penny.
First, this mannequin has a capability of a whopping 30L, which is large enough for storing 24 cans plus ice for cooling.
For insulation, it makes use of 3cm closed-cell PolarLayer XT Insulation foam, which retains your meals and drinks cool for a number of days!
Even when the cooler is filled with foods and drinks, it’s fairly comfy to put on.
That is due to the backpack suspension system, which incorporates padded straps, air mesh, a sternum strap, and a cushioned hip belt.
Lastly, it additionally has three outsized pockets with zippers. They’re waterproof and insulated, to allow them to hold your stuff secure and chilly if wanted.
Professionals
- 30L capability, which means it may retailer as much as 24 soda cans and ice
- Thick insulation retains your drinks and meals cool for a number of days
- Options three giant pockets and industrial clip factors, so you’ll be able to retailer your necessities
- Backpack suspension system makes the cooler very comfy to put on no matter its weight
Cons
- Fairly costly for a backpack cooler
Finest for: longer journeys
Coleman Sportflex Delicate Cooler Backpack
Coleman at all times impresses with its inexpensive however high-quality merchandise. This cooler backpack is not any totally different.
The outside is product of waxed canvas and lined with mesh, which permits it to repel water.
As for the inside, it options an antimicrobial liner that stops odor, mildew, and mildew from forming.
Moreover, the heat-welded seams stop leaks.
This backpack cooler can match as much as 30 cans inside, however if you calculate within the ice, the numbers drop to roughly 23 cans, which remains to be wonderful.
When filled with ice, the cooler can hold your foods and drinks icy for as much as 34 hours.
What’s additionally nice about this backpack cooler is that it additionally options stretch pockets within the entrance and on the sides.
You need to use them to retailer necessities, like your telephone, snacks, or water bottles.
Professionals
- Holds the temperature for as much as 34 hours
- Options three stretchy pockets for storing important gadgets
- Inexpensive for its high quality
- Options an antimicrobial liner that retains away odor, mildew, and mildew
Cons
- Robust to scrub when soiled
Finest for: campers and day trippers on a price range
Test Worth on Dickssportinggoods
Igloo Pursuit Backpack
Weight: 2.09 lbs | Capability (L): lbs | Capability (cans): 24 | Ice Retention (hrs): 12+ | Dimensions: 48 x 19.1 x 32 centimetres | Supplies: –
This may not be the most important backpack cooler on the listing, however this mannequin by Igloo makes nice use of its cupboard space.
With a capability of 24L, this cooler can match about 12 cans of soda. Additionally, due to its elongated design, you’ll be able to pack your wine bottles upright!
If you must pack different necessities, the cooler additionally options 2, tall, mesh aspect pockets and a big insulated entrance pocket with a zipper.
I do like the truth that the cooler options each adjustable padded shoulder straps and quick-grab handles.
That approach, you’ll be able to carry it nevertheless it fits you. I additionally like that you just get a built-in bottle opener, which is at all times useful to have.
Professionals
- Options aspect mesh pockets and an insulated entrance pocket for storing necessities
- Warmth-sealed, insulated liner is waterproof and straightforward to scrub
- Options each shoulder straps and carry handles
- Double-zipper lid opens broad, permitting quick access to the primary compartment
Cons
- Chest strap isn’t very comfy for folks with bigger chests
Finest for: two folks on a one-day hike
Carhartt Insulated 24-Can 2 Compartment Cooler Backpack
Weight: 1.5 lbs | Capability (L): lbs | Capability (cans): 24 | Ice Retention (hrs): 8+ | Dimensions: 12.5 x 8 x 17.75 inches | Supplies: 600 denier material with Rain Defender water repellent
At first look, this mannequin by Carhartt appears identical to a daily backpack.
However as soon as unzipped, it’s clear that that is an insulated cooler.
This cooler can match as much as 24 cans with out ice, which stay chilly for round eight hours.
In fact, you’ll be able to decrease the quantity of foods and drinks and add ice to make them last more.
On the entrance, the backpack cooler additionally includes a zippered pocket, within which you’ve two mesh pockets and a key fob.
There are additionally two small pockets on the entrance and two mesh pockets for storing a water bottle or some other necessities on the perimeters.
Professionals
- Appears like a daily backpack, so it’s excellent for quite a lot of conditions
- Retains temperature for as much as eight hours (even with out ice)
- Options tons of pockets for storing all of your different necessities
- Inexpensive in comparison with most picks on this listing
Cons
- Straps aren’t padded, so uncomfortable when the backpack is simply too heavy
Finest for: picnics and brief hikes
Test Worth on Dickssportinggoods
YETI Hopper M20 Backpack Cooler (at present on voluntary recall)
Weight: 5.6 lbs | Capability (L): 18 lbs | Capability (cans): 36 | Ice Retention (hrs): 24+ | Dimensions: 18.1″W x 9.9″D x 18.1″H | Supplies: 840-denier double-sided thermoplastic urethane
YETI actually mastered the know-how behind their coolers, and this mannequin positively exhibits that – particularly with regards to sturdiness.
YETI coolers are identified to be extraordinarily sturdy.
This backpack cooler can also be fairly huge. If full of simply cans, it may match as much as 36 of them!
In fact, you’ll most likely fill an excellent portion of the cooler with ice for chilly retention.
In that case, you’ll be able to relaxation assured your meals and drinks shall be cool even after 30 hours.
Now, despite the fact that it’s cumbersome, this cooler is quite comfy to hold, due to thickly padded shoulder straps.
The mannequin additionally has a carry deal with and two aspect handles, so you’ll be able to carry it in no matter approach it’s most handy for you.
Word: The YETI Hopper M20 has been voluntarily recalled in cooperation with the U.S. Client Product Security Fee. As soon as the merchandise is modified to satisfy security requirements, we assume it’ll be again available on the market.
Professionals
- Can retain icy temperatures longer than an entire day
- Options shoulder straps and handles
- Makes use of magnets to make sure leak-resistant closure
- Outer materials could be very sturdy and immune to puncture and mildew
Cons
Finest for: use on heat, sunny days
Cotopaxi Hielo 24L Cooler backpack
Weight: 4oz | Capability (L): 24 lbs | Capability (cans): 12, 12oz cans | Ice Retention (hrs): 12+ | Dimensions: 4 x 4 x 2 inches | Supplies: Polyester, Nylon
In relation to cooler backpacks, I don’t assume it will get any extra fashionable than this.
This mannequin by Cotopaxi has that retro vibe with colourful materials and a basic backpack form.
And right here’s the cool half – no two of those are the identical.
Staff in Cotopaxi have full artistic management over the product, so the colours are at all times totally different!
Plus, most of the supplies are repurposed, so it’s higher for the atmosphere.
Other than the gorgeous design, this backpack cooler is de facto well-made as effectively.
It has a bucket-style opening, which lets you simply attain for no matter you want from it, even when it’s on the backside.
With a capability of 24L, you’ll be able to retailer round 12 cans together with ice.
Professionals
- Each product has totally different colours, so that you’ll get a novel backpack
- Eco-friendly because it’s product of repurposed materials
- Includes a aspect and high pocket for storing important gadgets
- Bucket-style opening makes it simple to achieve no matter you want from the total backpack
Cons
- Not the very best ice retention in comparison with different picks on the listing
Finest for: campers searching for a trendy however useful backpack cooler
Pelican Dayventure Backpack Cooler
Weight: 9.3 lbs | Capability (L): 18 lbs | Capability (cans): 6 | Ice Retention (hrs): 24+ | Dimensions: 12.10 x 7.10 x 21.70 in | Supplies:
Now, this mannequin is designed with versatility in thoughts.
The underside compartment can match as much as 6 cans and includes a leak-resistant zipper, so nothing will come by means of.
The highest half has a large roll-top opening and has lighter insulation in comparison with the underside half.
However whereas designed for dry storage, this part may also work as a cooler compartment.
Though it’s fairly huge, this backpack cooler has a light-weight design and padded shoulder straps, so carrying it round shouldn’t be a difficulty.
The compression-molded base additionally permits it to face by itself if you place the backpack on the bottom.
The entire development is kind of sturdy.
The outer shell is puncture-resistant and can stand as much as put on and tear from outside use.
Professionals
- Options two compartments, each of which have insulation for ice retention
- Large roll high opening means that you can simply attain stuff on the backside of the compartment
- Compression-molded base permits the backpack to face upright
- Outer shell is each water and puncture resistant, so it’s fairly sturdy
Cons
- Outer shell tends to type condensation on actually scorching days
Finest for: preserving meals separated from drinks
REI Co-op Cool Path Pack Cooler
Weight: 3lbs | Capability (L): 38 lbs | Capability (cans): 20 | Ice Retention (hrs): 24+ | Dimensions: 22 x 17 x 9 inches | Supplies: Recycled ripstop nylon outer/polyester internal
REI Co-op is one more model that makes dependable merchandise, and this backpack cooler is one in every of them.
Now, the capability of this backpack cooler is kind of spectacular: 38L.
This mannequin can maintain 10lbs of ice and 20 cans, and it’ll hold them chilly for as much as 40 hours.
And because of the padded, contoured hip belt and shoulder straps, carrying such weight in your again gained’t be robust.
However in the event you don’t want a cooler in the mean time and simply want a backpack, this mannequin will work in that case as effectively.
Merely take away the leak-proof cooler insert, and you should utilize it as a daily mountain climbing pack.
Other than the primary compartment, it additionally has exterior gear pockets, a high pocket, and entrance lash straps for carrying all of your necessities.
Professionals
- Retains your meals cool for as much as 40 hours
- Internal layer could be eliminated to make use of the cooler as a daily backpack
- Options loads of pockets and lash straps for storing your gear
- Made with recycled supplies and is bluesign®-approved
Cons
Finest for: versatile use
Hydro Flask Day Escape Delicate Cooler Pack
Weight: 2.63 lbs | Capability (L): 20 lbs | Capability (cans): 36 | Ice Retention (hrs): 36+ | Dimensions: 7.8 x 12.99 x 17.72 inches | Supplies: Sturdy 600D polyester shell is light-weight and waterproof
This mannequin by Hydro Flask could also be small in comparison with different picks on the listing, however it has fairly a formidable ice retention potential.
When filled with ice, it may hold your stuff cool for as much as 36 hours.
The design is one other factor that catches your eye. Made from 600D polyester, the outer shell is sturdy and waterproof.
And because of a watertight zipper and welded seams, no single drop will cross by means of the fabric.
Plus, the aspect mesh pockets let you retailer a water bottle and different necessities.
What’s additionally nice about this product is the compression molded base, so the backpack can stand by itself.
Professionals
- Retains meals and drinks cool for as much as 36 hours
- Polyester outer material is waterproof and sturdy
- Padded, mesh again panel and shoulder straps make carrying simple
- Freestanding
Cons
- Zipper is less-than-ideal
Finest for: solo mountain climbing in scorching climate
Pelican Dayventure Sling Cooler
Weight: 7.9 lbs | Capability (L): 8.5 lbs | Capability (cans): 12 | Ice Retention (hrs): 24+ | Dimensions: 18.30 x 7.50 x 7.50 in | Supplies:
Most backpack coolers are designed in such a approach that they will’t slot in a daily wine bottle.
However in the event you’re happening a tenting date along with your associate, then you definitely positively want this mannequin by Pelican.
The inside compartment has a capability of 8.5L, which is sufficient for 4 wine bottles or 12 cans of soda.
Because of the leak-resistant zipper with a water-resistant seal, this cooler will hold your drinks chilly all day lengthy.
The cooler comes with a padded shoulder strap and rubberized carry deal with, so you’ll be able to carry it round in essentially the most comfy approach for you.
Like different Pelican fashions, it includes a compression molded base for stability if you’re not carrying it.
Professionals
- Can match 4 wine bottles or as much as 12 cans
- Includes a zippered outer pocket for storing necessities
- Leak-resistant zipper means that you can lay it horizontally with out spilling
- Options each a shoulder strap and a carry deal with
Cons
- Solely appropriate for carrying a small variety of drinks
Finest for: transporting drinks to picnics and tenting dates
Backpack Cooler Shopping for Information
Most backpack coolers look alike at first sight. However there are just a few options to regulate, as they will make an entire world of distinction.
Dimension & Capability
Given they’re carried on the again, backpack coolers don’t have such a variety of sizes in comparison with common coolers.
As you’ll be able to see from the listing, most backpack coolers have a capability between 20L and 30L.
And usually, that’s a super dimension for carrying meals and drinks in your again.
And for a 1-day journey for a pair, these are typically greater than sufficient.
Certain, there are fashions like the ICEMULE Professional XX-Giant 40L, which has a whopping capability of 40L, however until you’re in a bigger group, you gained’t want that a lot.
You additionally don’t wish to go together with a dimension that’s too huge, as you’re going to have to hold something that you just put in, which is able to add up rapidly and weigh you down.
Frankly, something bigger than 30L goes to be too heavy for regular people to hold.
That’s why we particularly benefit from the ICEMULE Urbano because it has sufficient dimension at 30L to pack a full days value of provides, but in addition a smooth design as effectively.
Learn: What Dimension Cooler Do I Want for Tenting?
Materials & Sturdiness
When selecting a backpack cooler, it’s essential to concentrate to the fabric.
Most of them are made of comparable supplies, however you must take note of the main points.
As an example, a cooler could be product of a really sturdy materials, but when the seams aren’t welded, it is going to leak.
You must also take note of the bottom and the straps.
Most producers like YETI and ICEMULE will make their backpack coolers waterproof, leakproof, they usually’ll float within the occasion they go overboard.
Because you’ll be carrying the cooler in your again, it’s essential that it’s comfy and doesn’t make you sweat like wild.
That’s why an excellent cooler ought to have mesh pads on the again and padded straps for optimum consolation.
Insulation High quality, Ice Retention, & Cooling Period
Backpack coolers are comfortable coolers, which suggests there’s some type of foam concerned for insulation.
There are two forms of foam: open-cell and closed-cell.
Open-cell foam options cells that aren’t fully encapsulated.
This makes the froth versatile and light-weight, however it’s not as nice at insulating.
Closed-cell foam, alternatively, options fully encapsulated cells.
In consequence, the fabric is way denser and heavier, however it is going to present higher insulation.
Weight & Portability
Since they’re designed to be carried on the again, most backpack coolers are comparatively gentle.
Nonetheless, since they’ll be loaded with meals and drinks, the general weight in your again shall be far more than the load of the coolers themselves.
However we’re prepared for that. What’s essential is that the straps and handles on these coolers are comfy sufficient to make carrying simpler.
In any other case, it kills the aim of getting a backpack cooler.
Leak-Proof Design
There’s a fairly good likelihood you’ll use ice in your backpack cooler.
And in that case, one factor you don’t need is the melted ice leaking and making a multitude.
That’s why you must make it possible for the backpack is totally waterproof, so nothing can penetrate the fabric.
Remember the fact that, even in the event you’re utilizing ice packs, they’ll additionally trigger a little bit of water to type contained in the cooler (from condensation) as they begin warming up.
So even in that case, it’s essential that the cooler is totally leak-proof.
Zippers & {Hardware} High quality
{Hardware} is a kind of issues that we frequently overlook about, but they’re simply as essential as some other a part of the cooler.
A backpack cooler with a high-quality outer shell will imply nothing if it makes use of a bad-quality zipper that snags and breaks with use.
The identical goes for buckles and stabilizers. In the event that they break, you would possibly as effectively not use the cooler in any respect.
FAQs
How Lengthy Can A Backpack Cooler Maintain My Meals & Drinks Chilly?
Is dependent upon the standard, in addition to the food-to-ice ratio.
However most backpack coolers on our listing final between 12 and 24 hours when used adequately.
What Elements Ought to I Think about When Shopping for A Backpack Cooler?
Dimension and weight are at all times essential elements, as you’ll be carrying it in your again.
In fact, insulation and zipper high quality are simply as essential. They decide how lengthy your backpack cooler will keep cool.
How A lot Weight Can A Backpack Cooler Comfortably Carry?
It relies on the mannequin, however most of them can carry as much as 30 lbs.
Nonetheless, remember the fact that you shouldn’t carry greater than ten % of your weight in your again.
Are Backpack Coolers Waterproof Or Water-Resistant?
Whereas some backpack coolers are fully waterproof, the vast majority of them are water resistant.
Whereas that’s first rate sufficient, you must be certain that to maintain the cooler upright or it may leak by means of the openings.
How Do I Clear & Keep A Backpack Cooler?
Even when it’s waterproof, it’s finest to not fully submerge a backpack cooler within the water.
As an alternative, you’ll be able to dab the inside and outside with water and cleaning soap, then rinse and wipe every part with a dry towel.
To Sum Issues Up
There are numerous nice backpack coolers available on the market, and the one which comes out on high is the ICEMULE Urbano 30L.
This cooler has nice capability, is totally waterproof, and even floats on water!
Not solely is it nice for water actions, however you should utilize it for virtually any journey due to its smooth and concrete design.
I’ve even thought-about utilizing it as a daily backpack!
But when Urbano isn’t your best choice, there are loads right here on this listing that may fit your wants!
Extra Coolers:
