Whether you're going on a picnic, a hike, or a short camping trip, a backpack cooler is a great piece of gear to have.
There are so many instances in which it's a pain to carry a traditional cooler.
But a backpack cooler makes everything from picnics to boating much easier and hassle-free.
Plus with new fabric technology, today's backpack coolers pack tremendous ice retention, sometimes for several days.
But not every model is suitable for every situation. We'll go over many of them to find the best backpack cooler for you, but here are our favorites.
Best Backpack Coolers:
- Best Overall Backpack Cooler: CORE CLIMAKEEP® 24 Can Magnetic Backpack Soft Cooler
- Best for Ice Retention: Engel Roll Top High Performance 25-Quart Backpack Cooler
- Best Value Backpack Cooler: ICEMULE Pro L
- Best Premium Backpack Cooler: YETI Hopper M20 Backpack Cooler
- Best Classic Backpack Style Backpack Cooler: Carhartt Insulated 24-Can 2 Compartment Cooler Backpack
- Best Dual-Purpose Premium Backpack Cooler: Pelican Dayventure Backpack Cooler
Best Backpack Cooler – Our Top Picks
CORE CLIMAKEEP® 24 Can Magnetic Backpack Soft Cooler
Weight: 5.1 lbs | Capacity (cans): 24 | Ice Retention (hrs): 72+ | Dimensions: 12.5 x 8.5 x 17.75 in | Materials: TPU/EVA foam/PET film
This CORE CLIMAKEEP backpack cooler features a rugged TPU shell and welded seams, ensuring it stands up to tough outdoor use.
The MagSnap magnetic closure provides quick, one-handed access to your drinks and snacks, sealing securely to keep the cold in.
You'll find the high-density EVA foam and reflective PET film insulation keep contents cold for up to three days.
Carry it comfortably with padded backpack straps, freeing your hands for other gear on the trail or at the beach.
A waterproof front pocket and true-stretch side pockets offer convenient storage for essentials and quick access to snacks.
Pros:
- MagSnap magnetic lid allows effortless one-handed access
- Keeps ice for up to 72+ hours with HYPERCOLD insulation
- Holds a generous 24 cans, perfect for group outings
- Waterproof and leakproof construction with durable TPU shell
- Integrated bottle opener adds convenient functionality
Cons:
- At 5.1 lbs empty, it's heavier than many comparable soft coolers
Best for: This cooler is best for adventurers who prioritize multi-day ice retention and hands-free transport.
Engel Roll Top High Performance 25-Quart Backpack Cooler
Weight: 3.5 lbs | Capacity (L): 23.6 | Capacity (cans): 36 | Ice Retention (hrs): 72+ | Dimensions: 20 x 9 x 14 inches | Materials: TPU laminated 840D nylon with welded seams
I was really impressed with this cooler. Its 25-quart capacity can handle up to 36 cans without ice (or two bottles of wine plus 7 lbs of ice) while remaining surprisingly comfortable to carry.
I was able to get 29 water bottles into this with room to spare. Plus, the roll-top design creates a watertight seal that locks in cold air and lets you adjust the height depending on your load.
The 1-inch closed-cell foam insulation — paired with a built-in vacuum valve — locks in cold air for up to 3–4 days under ideal conditions giving this the best ice retention of all the backpack coolers we've looked at.
The padded straps, chest buckle, and ventilated back panel make it ideal for longer carries, while thoughtful touches like a reinforced base and extra storage pockets keep your gear organized.
If you want a tough, flexible, and easy-to-carry cooler that performs far beyond the average softshell, the Engel Roll Top High Performance Backpack Cooler is an excellent pick.
Pros
- Up to 3–4 days of ice retention thanks to thick closed-cell foam insulation
- 25-quart capacity fits 36 cans or two wine bottles plus ice
- Waterproof roll-top design with vacuum valve for a tight seal
- Durable TPU-laminated 840D fabric with welded seams
- Comfortable padded straps, chest buckle, and ventilated back panel
- Flat reinforced base keeps cooler upright
Cons
- Heavy when fully loaded
- Price point is higher than most soft coolers
Best for: Beach trips, tailgating, and multi-day adventures
ICEMULE Pro Large
Weight: 3 lbs. 8 oz. | Capacity (L): 23 | Capacity (cans): 18 + ice | Ice Retention (hrs): 24+ | Dimensions: 17 x 14 x 11 inches | Materials: 1,000-denier ripstop tarpaulin/vinyl/nylon
The ICEMULE Pro Large really gives you the best bang for your buck for a soft cooler.
At this price range, it's very difficult to find other coolers that have all the features this one does.
This model in particular comes in several sizes, but the large one offers the best value.
It has a capacity of 23L, which can fit around 18 cans and ice, though we've found that it can hold much more than its capacity says it can.
This backpack cooler is specially designed for water activities. It has welded seams and a zipper-less closure for true waterproofing.
It also floats on water like most ICEMULE models, so in case it falls into the water, you don't have to worry about your food and drinks sinking to the bottom.
What's also great about this design is that it's collapsible.
Once you finish all your food and drinks, you can roll the cooler up and pack it for the next trip.
Read our full ICEMULE Pro review here.
Pros
- Fully waterproof and great for kayaking or other outdoor activities
- Can safely use the cooler around water without worrying it will sink
- Collapsible design allows you to roll it up and pack it away when not in use
- Comes in several different colors, so you can match it with the rest of your gear
Cons
- Not the best straps for a backpack cooler
Best for: enjoying water activities
Stanley The All Day Madeleine Midi Cooler Backpack
Weight: 2.2 lbs | Capacity (L): 14.0 | Capacity (cans): 20 + ice | Ice Retention (hrs): 24 | Dimensions: 11.8 x 7.9 x 16.1 in
The Stanley All Day Madeleine Midi Cooler Backpack offers a stylish way to carry your refreshments. Its 100% recycled polyester construction provides durability for daily adventures.
You'll appreciate the unique doctor's bag hinge top, which opens wide for easy packing and unpacking. This design makes accessing your items simple and quick.
Padded, adjustable backpack straps ensure comfortable carrying, even when fully loaded. A top handle also offers a quick grab-and-go option.
Side mesh pockets are perfect for water bottles or other quick-access items. A discreet back pocket keeps your valuables secure.
The robust YKK zipper secures your contents, preventing leaks and maintaining temperature. This cooler is designed for reliable performance on the go.
Pros:
- Keeps contents cold for a full 24 hours
- Wide doctor's bag opening for easy loading and access
- Lightweight design at just 2.2 lbs
- Made from durable, 100% recycled polyester
- Multiple external pockets for extra gear and valuables
Cons:
- Lacks a chest strap for added stability on longer hikes
Best for: This cooler is best for casual outings, picnics, and daily commutes where style and portability are key.
Igloo Trailmate 30-Can Cooler Bag
Weight: 3.21 lbs | Capacity (cans): 30 | Ice Retention (hrs): 48+ | Dimensions: 17.52 x 12.2 x 16.54 inches | Materials: 600D polyester/TPU/PU
The Igloo Trailmate 30-Can Cooler Bag extends the popular Trailmate line into soft-sided convenience. This spacious cooler is designed for easy transport and robust outdoor performance.
MaxCold Ultra insulation, featuring 20mm HDPE foam, keeps your food and drinks cold for extended periods. You can expect impressive ice retention, often lasting at least two days.
Its durable, welded exterior uses 600D coated polyester, providing excellent resistance against dirt, sand, and water. The crushproof EVA molded top and bottom add significant durability.
A super spacious zippered main compartment opens wide for effortless packing and quick access. Smooth-glide, water-resistant zippers ensure contents stay secure and liquids contained.
Carry this cooler comfortably with its padded top grab handle or the removable shoulder strap. It's built to withstand the elements while keeping your provisions chilled.
Pros:
- Holds 30 cans, perfect for a day's outing or small group
- Built-in bottle opener on the front pocket for convenience
- Welded 600D coated polyester exterior resists dirt, sand, and water
- Wide-mouth opening and smooth-glide zippers allow easy access
- MaxCold Ultra insulation with 20mm foam provides extended cooling
Cons:
- Ice retention is shorter than heavily insulated rigid models
- Soft walls offer less internal structure, allowing contents to shift
Best for: This cooler is best for adventurers seeking a durable, portable soft cooler for day trips and weekend excursions.
Carhartt Insulated 24-Can 2 Compartment Cooler Backpack
Weight: 1.5 lbs | Capacity (L): undisclosed | Capacity (cans): 12 | Ice Retention (hrs): 8+ | Dimensions: 12.5 x 8 x 17.75 inches | Materials: 600 denier fabric with Rain Defender water repellent
At first glance, this model by Carhartt looks just like a regular backpack.
But once unzipped, it's clear that this is an insulated cooler.
This cooler can fit up to 12 cans without ice and 12 with ice which will remain cold for around eight hours.
Of course, you can lower the amount of food and drink and add ice to make them last longer.
At the front, the backpack cooler also features a zippered pocket, inside of which you have two mesh pockets and a key fob.
There are also two small pockets at the front and two mesh pockets for storing a water bottle or any other essentials on the sides.
Pros
- Looks like a regular backpack, so it's perfect for a variety of situations
- Retains temperature for up to eight hours (even without ice)
- Features tons of pockets for storing all your other essentials
- Affordable compared to most picks on this list
Cons
- Straps aren't padded, so uncomfortable when the backpack is too heavy
Best for: picnics and short hikes
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YETI Hopper M20 Backpack Cooler
Weight: 5.6 lbs | Capacity (L): 18 lbs | Capacity (cans): 36 | Ice Retention (hrs): 24+ | Dimensions: 18.1″W x 9.9″D x 18.1″H | Materials: 840-denier double-sided thermoplastic urethane
YETI really mastered the technology behind their coolers, and this model definitely shows that – especially when it comes to durability.
YETI coolers are known to be extremely sturdy.
This backpack cooler is also quite big. If filled with just cans, it can fit up to 36 of them!
Of course, you'll probably fill a good portion of the cooler with ice for cold retention.
In that case, you can rest assured your food and drinks will be cool even after 30 hours.
Now, even though it's bulky, this cooler is rather comfortable to carry, thanks to thickly padded shoulder straps.
The model also has a carry handle and two side handles, so you can carry it in whatever way it's most convenient for you.
Pros
- Can retain icy temperatures longer than a whole day
- Features shoulder straps and handles
- Uses magnets to ensure leak-resistant closure
- Outer material is very durable and resistant to puncture and mildew
Cons
- Rather expensive
Best for: use on warm, sunny days
Cotopaxi Hielo 24L Cooler backpack
Weight: 4oz | Capacity (L): 24 lbs | Capacity (cans): 12, 12oz cans | Ice Retention (hrs): 12+ | Dimensions: 4 x 4 x 2 inches | Materials: Polyester, Nylon
When it comes to cooler backpacks, I don't think it gets any more stylish than this.
This model by Cotopaxi has that retro vibe with colorful fabrics and a classic backpack shape.
And here's the cool part – no two of these are the same.
Employees in Cotopaxi have full creative control over the product, so the colors are always different!
Plus, many of the materials are repurposed, so it's better for the environment.
Aside from the beautiful design, this backpack cooler is really well-made as well.
It has a bucket-style opening, which allows you to easily reach for whatever you need from it, even if it's at the bottom.
With a capacity of 24L, you can store around 12 cans along with ice.
Pros
- Every product has different colors, so you'll get a unique backpack
- Eco-friendly since it's made of repurposed material
- Features a side and top pocket for storing essential items
- Bucket-style opening makes it easy to reach whatever you need from the full backpack
Cons
- Not the best ice retention compared to other picks on the list
Best for: campers looking for a stylish but functional backpack cooler
Pelican Dayventure Backpack Cooler
Weight: 9.3 lbs | Capacity (L): 18 lbs | Capacity (cans): 6 | Ice Retention (hrs): 24+ | Dimensions: 12.10 x 7.10 x 21.70 in | Materials:
Pelican is known for their durable and high-quality products. Now, this model is designed with versatility in mind.
The bottom compartment can fit up to 6 cans and features a leak-resistant zipper, so nothing will come through.
The top part has a wide roll-top opening and has lighter insulation compared to the bottom part.
But while designed for dry storage, this section can also work as a cooler compartment.
Even though it's pretty big, this backpack cooler has a lightweight design and padded shoulder straps, so carrying it around is not an issue.
The compression-molded base also allows it to stand on its own when you place the backpack on the ground.
The whole construction is quite durable.
The outer shell is puncture-resistant and will stand up to wear and tear from outdoor use.
Pros
- Features two compartments, both of which have insulation for ice retention
- Wide roll top opening allows you to easily reach stuff at the bottom of the compartment
- Compression-molded base allows the backpack to stand upright
- Outer shell is both water and puncture resistant, so it's quite durable
Cons
- Outer shell tends to form condensation on really hot days
Best for: keeping food separated from drinks
REI Co-op Campwell Pack Cooler
Weight: 2 lbs 7 oz | Capacity (L): 31 | Ice Retention: 38+ hrs | Materials: Recycled polyester | Dimensions (flat): 19 x 12 x 10 in
The REI Co-op Campwell Pack Cooler offers a lightweight solution for keeping items cold on the go. Its clever design allows it to transform for various carrying needs with additional handles on top as well as backpack straps.
This cooler easily converts between a spacious tote and a compact cube shape, adapting to your load and storage space. You can also fold it completely flat when not in use.
Constructed from recycled polyester, the Campwell balances durability with minimal weight, making it comfortable to carry. The shell and liner feature a DWR finish for moisture resistance.
A straight-zip, wide-mouth opening simplifies loading and unloading, while the leakproof liner ensures easy cleanup. Just wipe it out with a soapy sponge and air dry.
While excellent for day trips and short outings, its insulation is designed for hours rather than multi-day ice retention. It keeps contents cold for 38 hours with 10 lbs of ice.
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight at just 1.1 lbs for easy portability
- Folds completely flat to a slim 1 inch for convenient storage
- Versatile 3-in-1 design converts between tote and cube modes
- Includes a padded, adjustable shoulder strap for comfortable carrying
- Leakproof liner is simple to wipe clean after use
Cons:
- Offers light insulation, not built for multi-day ice retention
Best for: This cooler is best for individuals or families needing a lightweight, packable option for daily use, picnics, or short day trips.
Hydro Flask Carryout™ Cooler Backpack 22L
Weight: 3.34 lbs | Capacity (L): 22 | Can Capacity: 30 cans | Materials: Recycled polyester | Liner: Welded, leakproof
This cooler backpack offers hands-free carrying for your day trips and outdoor adventures. Its compression-molded body provides structure and stability on the move.
You get a comfort-forward suspension system that distributes weight evenly for an ergonomic carry. The FlexClip™ strap system allows for customizable and removable strap configurations.
Accessing contents is simple with the wide-opening clamshell lid. This design lets you see everything inside without digging around.
The welded, leakproof interior liner ensures no spills escape into your gear. Cleanup is quick and easy after a full day of use.
Constructed with bluesign® APPROVED 100% recycled polyester, this pack is durable. It delivers all-day cold when paired with an ice pack.
Pros:
- Lightweight at just 3.34 lbs for comfortable all-day carrying
- Spacious 22 L capacity fits 30 standard cans without ice
- Clamshell lid opens wide for easy loading and access to contents
- FlexClip™ strap system offers customizable and removable carry options
- Welded, leakproof interior liner makes cleaning simple and fast
Cons:
- Minimal exterior storage with only one stretch pocket
Best for: This cooler is best for those seeking comfortable, hands-free transport of food and drinks for day-long outings and picnics.
Pelican Dayventure Sling Cooler
Weight: 7.9 lbs | Capacity (L): 8.5 lbs | Capacity (cans): 12 | Ice Retention (hrs): 24+ | Dimensions: 18.30 x 7.50 x 7.50 in | Materials:
Most backpack coolers are designed in such a way that they can't fit in a regular wine bottle.
But if you're going on a camping date with your partner, then you definitely need this model by Pelican.
The interior compartment has a capacity of 8.5L, which is enough for four wine bottles or 12 cans of soda.
Thanks to the leak-resistant zipper with a waterproof seal, this cooler will keep your drinks cold all day long.
The cooler comes with a padded shoulder strap and rubberized carry handle, so you can carry it around in the most comfortable way for you.
Like other Pelican models, it features a compression molded base for stability when you're not wearing it.
Pros
- Can fit 4 wine bottles or up to 12 cans
- Features a zippered outer pocket for storing essentials
- Leak-resistant zipper allows you to lay it horizontally without spilling
- Features both a shoulder strap and a carry handle
Cons
- Only suitable for carrying a small number of drinks
Best for: transporting drinks to picnics and camping dates
ICEMULE Urbano 30L (Discontinued)
Weight: 4 lbs | Capacity (L): 30 | Capacity (cans): 20 + ice | Ice Retention (hrs): 24+ | Dimensions: 14.5 x 8.5 x 18 inches | Materials: ripstop tarpaulin/vinyl/nylon
The ICEMULE Urbano definitely stands out from the crowd with its design.
It's rugged and waterproof, but it looks so stylish, no one would ever suspect that it's a cooler and not a regular backpack!
With a capacity of 30L, it's one of the largest models on the list. It's big enough to fit 18-20 cans of soda plus ice without a problem.
And when it comes to ice retention, it can keep your food and drinks at icy temperatures for more than 24 hours.
Thanks to the welded seams and zipper-less closure, this is a 100% waterproof backpack cooler.
But what's even cooler is that the IM AirValve allows air to be added to the insulation layer, which makes the cooler buoyant. So, it's great for water activities like kayaking.
Coming out on top with its sleek design and additional storage pockets, we love the ICEMULE Urbano.
Pros
- Stylish and sleek as hell
- 30L capacity – holds up 20 cans of soda, plus ice
- 24-hours of ice retention
- Completely waterproof and buoyant for water activities due to IM AirValve
- Comfortable padded shoulder straps and hidden interior pockets
Cons
- Waist belts are recommended when carrying a full cooler
Best for: any/all outdoor activities that require a backpack cooler
Backpack Cooler Buying Guide
Most backpack coolers look alike at first sight. But there are a few features to keep an eye on, as they can make a whole world of difference.
Size & Capacity
Given they're carried on the back, backpack coolers don't have such a wide range of sizes compared to regular coolers.
As you can see from the list, most backpack coolers have a capacity between 20L and 30L.
And in most cases, that's an ideal size for carrying food and drinks on your back.
And for a 1-day trip for a couple, these are generally more than enough.
Sure, there are models like the ICEMULE Pro XX-Large 40L, which has a whopping capacity of 40L, but unless you're in a larger group, you won't need that much.
You also don't want to go with a size that's too big, as you are going to have to carry anything that you put in, which will add up quickly and weigh you down.
Frankly, anything larger than 30L is going to be too heavy for normal humans to carry.
That's why we especially enjoy the ICEMULE Urbano since it has enough size at 30L to pack a full days worth of supplies, but also a sleek design as well.
Read: What Size Cooler Do I Need for Camping?
Material & Durability
When choosing a backpack cooler, it's important to pay attention to the material.
Most of them are made of similar materials, but you need to pay attention to the details.
For instance, a cooler might be made of a very durable material, but if the seams aren't welded, it will leak.
You should also pay attention to the backside and the straps.
Most manufacturers like YETI and ICEMULE will make their backpack coolers waterproof, leakproof, and they'll float in the event they go overboard.
Since you'll be carrying the cooler on your back, it's important that it's comfortable and doesn't make you sweat like wild.
That's why a good cooler should have mesh pads on the back and padded straps for optimal comfort.
More: The 6 Best Cooler Brands
Insulation Quality, Ice Retention, & Cooling Duration
Backpack coolers are soft coolers, which means there's some kind of foam involved for insulation.
There are two types of foam: open-cell and closed-cell.
Open-cell foam features cells that aren't completely encapsulated.
This makes the foam flexible and lightweight, but it is not as great at insulating.
Closed-cell foam, on the other hand, features completely encapsulated cells.
As a result, the material is much denser and heavier, but it will provide better insulation.
Weight & Portability
Since they're designed to be carried on the back, most backpack coolers are relatively light.
However, since they'll be loaded with food and drinks, the overall weight on your back will be way more than the weight of the coolers themselves.
But we're ready for that. What's important is that the straps and handles on those coolers are comfortable enough to make carrying easier.
Otherwise, it kills the purpose of having a backpack cooler.
Leak-Proof Design
There's a pretty good chance you'll use ice in your backpack cooler.
And in that case, one thing you don't want is the melted ice leaking and making a mess.
That's why you need to make sure that the backpack is completely waterproof, so nothing can penetrate the material.
Keep in mind that, even if you're using ice packs, they'll also cause a bit of water to form inside the cooler (from condensation) as they start warming up.
So even in that case, it's important that the cooler is fully leak-proof.
Zippers & Hardware Quality
Hardware is one of those things that we often forget about, yet they're just as important as any other part of the cooler.
A backpack cooler with a high-quality outer shell will mean nothing if it uses a bad-quality zipper that snags and breaks with use.
The same goes for buckles and stabilizers. If they break, you might as well not use the cooler at all.
FAQs
How Long Can A Backpack Cooler Keep My Food & Drinks Cold?
Depends on the quality, as well as the food-to-ice ratio.
But most backpack coolers on our list last between 12 and 24 hours when used adequately.
What Factors Should I Consider When Buying A Backpack Cooler?
Size and weight are always important factors, as you'll be carrying it on your back.
Of course, insulation and zipper quality are just as important. They determine how long your backpack cooler will stay cool.
How Much Weight Can A Backpack Cooler Comfortably Carry?
It depends on the model, but most of them can carry up to 30 lbs.
Still, keep in mind that you shouldn't carry more than ten percent of your weight on your back.
Are Backpack Coolers Waterproof Or Water-Resistant?
While some backpack coolers are completely waterproof, the majority of them are water-resistant.
While that's decent enough, you need to make sure to keep the cooler upright or it can leak through the openings.
How Do I Clean & Maintain A Backpack Cooler?
Even if it's waterproof, it's best not to completely submerge a backpack cooler in the water.
Instead, you can dab the outside and inside with water and soap, then rinse and wipe everything with a dry towel.
To Sum Things Up
There are many great backpack coolers on the market, and the one that comes out on top is the ICEMULE Urbano 30L.
This cooler has great capacity, is completely waterproof, and even floats on water!
Not only is it great for water activities, but you can use it for practically any trip because of its sleek and urban design.
I've even considered using it as a regular backpack!
But if Urbano isn't your top choice, there are plenty here on this list that will suit your needs!
More Coolers: