Whether or not you’re occurring a picnic, a hike, or a quick tenting journey, a backpack cooler is a good piece of substances to have.
There are such a lot of situations during which it’s a ache to hold a conventional cooler.
However a backpack cooler makes every thing from picnics to boating a lot simpler and hassle-free.
Plus with new cloth expertise, in the present day’s backpack coolers pack super ice retention, generally for a number of days.
However not each mannequin is appropriate for each scenario. We’ll go over lots of them to search out one of the best backpack cooler for you, however listed below are our favorites:
Greatest Backpack Cooler – Our High Picks
Greatest Backpack Coolers:
Greatest Twin-Compartment Backpack Coolers:
ICEMULE Urbano 30L
Weight: 4 lbs | Capability (L): 30 | 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 undoubtedly stands out from the gang with its design.
It’s rugged and waterproof, however it seems so fashionable, nobody would ever suspect that it’s a cooler and never an everyday backpack!
With a capability of 30L, it’s one of many largest fashions on the checklist. It’s large enough to suit 18-20 cans of soda plus ice and not using a downside.
And in terms of ice retention, it could possibly maintain your meals and drinks at icy temperatures for greater than 24 hours.
Due to the welded seams and zipper-less closure, this can be 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 prime with its smooth design and extra storage pockets, we love the ICEMULE Urbano.
Execs
- Trendy and smooth as hell
- 30L capability – holds up 20 cans of soda, plus ice
- 24-hours of ice retention
- Fully waterproof and buoyant for water actions as a consequence of IM AirValve
- Snug padded shoulder straps and hidden inside pockets
Cons
- Waist belts are beneficial when carrying a full cooler
Greatest for: any/all outside actions that require a backpack cooler
ICEMULE Professional Massive
Weight: 3 lbs. 8 oz. | Capability (L): 23 | 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 Massive actually offers you one of the best bang on your buck for a delicate cooler.
At this worth 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 one of the best worth.
It has a capability of 23L, which might match round 18 cans and ice, although we’ve discovered that it could possibly maintain rather more than its capability says it could possibly.
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 may roll the cooler up and pack it for the subsequent journey.
Learn our full ICEMULE Professional overview right here.
Execs
- 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 permits you to roll it up and pack it away when not in use
- Is available in a number of completely different colours, so you may match it with the remainder of your gear
Cons
- Not one of the best straps for a backpack cooler
Greatest for: having fun with water actions
ICEMULE BOSS
Weight: 5 lbs | Capability (L): 30 | 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 cloth
In the event you’re prepared to speculate a bit extra, this premium mannequin by ICEMULE is price 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 full of food and drinks, it’s fairly snug to put on.
That is because of 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 maintain your stuff protected and chilly if wanted.
Execs
- 30L capability, which means it could possibly 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 may retailer your necessities
- Backpack suspension system makes the cooler very snug to put on no matter its weight
Cons
- Fairly costly for a backpack cooler
Greatest for: longer journeys
Coleman Sportflex Gentle Cooler Backpack
Coleman all the time impresses with its inexpensive however high-quality merchandise. This cooler backpack is not any completely different.
The outside is manufactured from waxed canvas and lined with mesh, which permits it to repel water.
As for the inside, it options an antimicrobial liner that forestalls odor, mildew, and mould from forming.
Moreover, the heat-welded seams stop leaks.
This backpack cooler can match as much as 30 cans inside, however whenever you calculate within the ice, the numbers drop to roughly 23 cans, which continues to be wonderful.
When full of ice, the cooler can maintain your food 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 should utilize them to retailer necessities, like your telephone, snacks, or water bottles.
Execs
- 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 mould
Cons
- Powerful to wash when soiled
Greatest for: campers and day trippers on a finances
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Igloo Pursuit Backpack
Weight: 2.09 lbs | Capability (L): undisclosed | Capability (cans): 24 | Ice Retention (hrs): 12+ | Dimensions: 48 x 19.1 x 32 centimetres | Supplies: polyester
This may not be the most important backpack cooler on the checklist, 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, because of its elongated design, you may pack your wine bottles upright!
If it is advisable to pack different necessities, the cooler additionally options 2, tall, mesh facet 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 means, you may carry it nevertheless it fits you. I additionally like that you simply get a built-in bottle opener, which is all the time helpful to have.
Execs
- Options facet mesh pockets and an insulated entrance pocket for storing necessities
- Warmth-sealed, insulated liner is waterproof and simple to wash
- Options each shoulder straps and carry handles
- Double-zipper lid opens huge, permitting easy accessibility to the primary compartment
Cons
- Chest strap isn’t very snug for individuals with bigger chests
Greatest for: two individuals on a one-day hike
Carhartt Insulated 24-Can 2 Compartment Cooler Backpack
Weight: 1.5 lbs | Capability (L): undisclosed | Capability (cans): 12 | Ice Retention (hrs): 8+ | Dimensions: 12.5 x 8 x 17.75 inches | Supplies: 600 denier cloth with Rain Defender water repellent
At first look, this mannequin by Carhartt seems identical to an everyday backpack.
However as soon as unzipped, it’s clear that that is an insulated cooler.
This cooler can match as much as 12 cans with out ice and 12 with ice which is able to stay chilly for round eight hours.
After all, you may decrease the quantity of food and drinks and add ice to make them last more.
On the entrance, the backpack cooler additionally encompasses a zippered pocket, within which you’ve gotten 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 edges.
Execs
- Appears like an everyday 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 checklist
Cons
- Straps aren’t padded, so uncomfortable when the backpack is simply too heavy
Greatest for: picnics and quick hikes
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YETI Hopper M20 Backpack Cooler (at the moment 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 expertise behind their coolers, and this mannequin undoubtedly reveals that – particularly in terms of sturdiness.
YETI coolers are identified to be extraordinarily sturdy.
This backpack cooler can also be fairly massive. If full of simply cans, it could possibly match as much as 36 of them!
After all, you’ll most likely fill a very good portion of the cooler with ice for chilly retention.
In that case, you may relaxation assured your meals and drinks might be cool even after 30 hours.
Now, though it’s cumbersome, this cooler is slightly snug to hold, because of thickly padded shoulder straps.
The mannequin additionally has a carry deal with and two facet handles, so you may carry it in no matter means it’s most handy for you.
Be aware: 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 in the marketplace.
Execs
- 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 may be very sturdy and immune to puncture and mildew
Cons
Greatest 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
On the subject of cooler backpacks, I don’t suppose it will get any extra fashionable than this.
This mannequin by Cotopaxi has that retro vibe with colourful materials and a traditional 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 all the time completely different!
Plus, lots of the supplies are repurposed, so it’s higher for the atmosphere.
Except for the attractive design, this backpack cooler is absolutely 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 may retailer round 12 cans together with ice.
Execs
- Each product has completely different colours, so that you’ll get a novel backpack
- Eco-friendly because it’s manufactured from repurposed materials
- Incorporates a facet and prime pocket for storing important gadgets
- Bucket-style opening makes it simple to achieve no matter you want from the complete backpack
Cons
- Not one of the best ice retention in comparison with different picks on the checklist
Greatest for: campers searching for a classy however purposeful 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 encompasses a leak-resistant zipper, so nothing will come by.
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 can even work as a cooler compartment.
Though it’s fairly massive, this backpack cooler has a light-weight design and padded shoulder straps, so carrying it round is just not a difficulty.
The compression-molded base additionally permits it to face by itself whenever 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.
Execs
- Options two compartments, each of which have insulation for ice retention
- Broad roll prime opening permits you to 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 kind condensation on actually scorching days
Greatest for: maintaining 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 inside
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 maintain 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 received’t be robust.
However in case you don’t want a cooler in the intervening 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 an everyday mountain climbing pack.
Except for the primary compartment, it additionally has exterior gear pockets, a prime pocket, and entrance lash straps for carrying all of your necessities.
Execs
- Retains your meals cool for as much as 40 hours
- Inside layer will be eliminated to make use of the cooler as an everyday backpack
- Options loads of pockets and lash straps for storing your gear
- Made with recycled supplies and is bluesign®-approved
Cons
Greatest for: versatile use
Hydro Flask Day Escape Gentle 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 checklist, however it has fairly a formidable ice retention capability.
When full of ice, it could possibly maintain your stuff cool for as much as 36 hours.
The design is one other factor that catches your eye. Fabricated from 600D polyester, the outer shell is sturdy and waterproof.
And because of a watertight zipper and welded seams, no single drop will move by the fabric.
Plus, the facet mesh pockets will 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.
Execs
- Retains meals and drinks cool for as much as 36 hours
- Polyester outer cloth is waterproof and sturdy
- Padded, mesh again panel and shoulder straps make carrying simple
- Freestanding
Cons
- Zipper is less-than-ideal
Greatest 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 means that they’ll’t slot in an everyday wine bottle.
However in case you’re occurring a tenting date together with your companion, you then undoubtedly 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.
Due to the leak-resistant zipper with a water-resistant seal, this cooler will maintain your drinks chilly all day lengthy.
The cooler comes with a padded shoulder strap and rubberized carry deal with, so you may carry it round in essentially the most snug means for you.
Like different Pelican fashions, it encompasses a compression molded base for stability whenever you’re not carrying it.
Execs
- Can match 4 wine bottles or as much as 12 cans
- Incorporates a zippered outer pocket for storing necessities
- Leak-resistant zipper permits you to 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
Greatest for: transporting drinks to picnics and tenting dates
Backpack Cooler Shopping for Information
Most backpack coolers look alike at first sight. However there are a number of options to regulate, as they’ll 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 may see from the checklist, most backpack coolers have a capability between 20L and 30L.
And typically, that’s a really perfect measurement 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-Massive 40L, which has a whopping capability of 40L, however until you’re in a bigger group, you received’t want that a lot.
You additionally don’t wish to go together with a measurement that’s too massive, as you will have to hold something that you simply 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 measurement at 30L to pack a full days price of provides, but additionally 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 it is advisable to take note of the main points.
For example, a cooler is likely to be manufactured from 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 snug and doesn’t make you sweat like wild.
That’s why a very good 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 delicate coolers, which implies there’s some sort of foam concerned for insulation.
There are two varieties 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.
Because of this, 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.
Nevertheless, since they’ll be loaded with meals and drinks, the general weight in your again might be far more than the burden of the coolers themselves.
However we’re prepared for that. What’s essential is that the straps and handles on these coolers are snug 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 probability 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 large number.
That’s why it is advisable to ensure that the backpack is totally waterproof, so nothing can penetrate the fabric.
Needless to say, even in case you’re utilizing ice packs, they’ll additionally trigger a little bit of water to kind 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 neglect 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 may as effectively not use the cooler in any respect.
FAQs
How Lengthy Can A Backpack Cooler Maintain My Meals & Drinks Chilly?
Will depend on the standard, in addition to the food-to-ice ratio.
However most backpack coolers on our checklist final between 12 and 24 hours when used adequately.
What Elements Ought to I Contemplate When Shopping for A Backpack Cooler?
Dimension and weight are all the time essential components, as you’ll be carrying it in your again.
After all, 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 will depend on the mannequin, however most of them can carry as much as 30 lbs.
Nonetheless, needless to say 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, nearly all of them are water resistant.
Whereas that’s respectable sufficient, it is advisable to be sure that to maintain the cooler upright or it could possibly leak by the openings.
How Do I Clear & Preserve A Backpack Cooler?
Even when it’s waterproof, it’s finest to not fully submerge a backpack cooler within the water.
As a substitute, you may dab the inside and outside with water and cleaning soap, then rinse and wipe every thing with a dry towel.
To Sum Issues Up
There are lots of nice backpack coolers in the marketplace, and the one which comes out on prime 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 an everyday backpack!
But when Urbano isn’t your best choice, there are lots right here on this checklist that can fit your wants!
Extra Coolers:
