The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Backpack Cooler for All Your Outdoor Adventures

Looking for the ultimate way to keep your drinks cold and your adventures uninterrupted? Look no further! In this article, we will dive deep into the world of backpack coolers, exploring everything you need to know before making your purchase. We'll test and compare the best backpack coolers, discuss the use of ice and dry ice, and reveal the secrets to keeping your beverages chilly for longer. Whether you're a backpacking pro or a casual day-tripper, we've got you covered with our expert reviews and recommendations for the best backpack coolers on the market. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to discover the unbeatable convenience and functionality of the best backpack cooler.

Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Backpack Cooler

Ice Retention

When you are in the market for a backpack cooler, it is important to think about how you intend to use it. Will you be needing to keep food and beverages cold for a weekend trip, or will you only need it for less than 24 hours? High-end brands such as Yeti and IceMule offer longer ice retention, but it comes at a higher price due to their premium insulation. On the other hand, brands like Igloo and Arctic Zone are more affordable but will cause the ice to melt faster. It is also worth noting that while backpack coolers have improved over time, they still cannot match the long-term ice storage capabilities of hard-sided coolers.

Strap System

The length of time you plan on carrying your backpack cooler is another important factor to consider. If you plan on hiking for more than a mile, it is advisable to look for a cooler with supportive and comfortable padding, as well as a hip or chest belt to alleviate the weight on your shoulders. Conversely, if you only plan on walking a short distance from your car, a hip belt or padded straps may not be necessary.

Capacity

Backpack coolers come in various sizes, ranging from small lunch box-sized packs to larger backpackers that can hold up to 36 cans. It is crucial to determine your capacity needs before purchasing a cooler. It is also important to remember that ice cubes take up a significant amount of space.

Features

Consider whether you require additional features such as pockets and dry storage or if you simply plan on using the backpack strap system for convenience. If the backpack cooler is the sole item you will be carrying, pockets can be useful for storing personal items like your phone, wallet, keys, and water bottle.

Shape

There are two main types of backpack coolers: boxy and stiff coolers, and more flexible soft-sided coolers. Boxy and stiff designs have flat bottoms for easy loading and can accommodate food and drinks more easily. However, they may be less comfortable to carry. Soft-sided backpack coolers, such as the Hydro Flask Day Escape or the REI Cool Trail Pack, fit more naturally on your back for a more comfortable carrying experience. However, they may be less convenient to load with cans.

Testing the Best Backpack Coolers

One of the most important tests for a backpack cooler is its insulation capabilities. In order to assess this, the author placed a 5-pound bag of ice in each cooler and left them in moderate temperatures (mid to upper sixties), checking every twenty-four hours to monitor if the ice had melted. The author recorded the time at which only a puddle of water remained in each backpack cooler.

The author left 5 pounds of ice in each cooler to test the insulation capabilities. Laura Lancaster

In addition to insulation, the author also examined the waterproofing of each backpack cooler by tipping them in all directions and leaving them upside down for an hour. The comfort and adjustability of each backpack were also taken into consideration, along with additional features such as pockets and haul handles, as well as price. Popular models like the YETI Hopper and Camelback Chillback were not included in the test due to availability issues.

Can Ice Be Used in a Backpack Cooler?

The author suggests using ice packs rather than ice in a backpack cooler, as some backpack coolers may not be waterproof and can leak. Ice packs are easier to clean up compared to melted ice.

Can Dry Ice Be Used in a Backpack Cooler?

While dry ice can be a solution for some backpack coolers because it does not turn into water when it melts, there are downsides to using dry ice. Dry ice melts quickly, despite being colder than water ice. Additionally, it releases carbon dioxide as it melts, which can be dangerous. If you choose to use dry ice, it is recommended to wrap it in newspaper and keep it at the bottom of your cooler. However, dry ice is generally not recommended for use in a backpack cooler.

How to Keep a Backpack Cooler Cold Longer

Pre-cooling your cooler is a good idea. If possible, place your backpack cooler in the fridge or freezer before heading out to ensure that it is already cool when you start using it. Keep your freezer packs frozen until just before you plan to use them. When the cooler is not in use, store it in the shade and away from direct sunlight.

Backpack Cooler Comparison Chart

(Photo/Eric Phillips)

Reviews & Recommendations for the Best Backpack Coolers

Most Comfortable: Hydroflask Day Escape

Key Features

• Capacity: 20 liters
• Weight: 2.6 pounds
• Insulation Test: 48 hours

Pros

• Very comfortable to carry
• Waterproof
• Mesh pocket

Cons

• No hip belt
• Comparatively expensive

The Hydroflask Day Escape was chosen as the most portable option among the best small coolers. It stood out in the test for its comfort, largely due to its wider frame and less depth, which keeps the weight closer to the body compared to models with a more freeform or traditional cooler shape. While it provides enough structure to support heavier loads, it lacks a hip belt, so it is not advisable to fully load it before embarking on a longer hike. It also features a haul handle, a common feature in backpacks but not typically found in backpack coolers, which is convenient for storage at home.

The extra padding and wide frame made the Hydroflask Day Escape the most comfortable backpack cooler to carry. Laura Lancaster

In addition to its comfort, the Hydroflask Day Escape is fully waterproof and maintained ice for forty-eight hours during the insulation test. It also includes an outside mesh pocket, which is useful for storing small items or holding a trail beer on the go.

Most Versatile: RTIC Soft Pack

Key Features

• Capacity: 20 liters
• Weight: 3.7 pounds
• Insulation Test: 48 hours

Pros

• Can be carried like a typical soft cooler or a backpack
• Easy to organize

Cons

• Less comfortable than other backpack coolers
• Bulky to store

The RTIC Soft Pack Backpack Cooler offers a good compromise for those who are unsure about the necessity of owning a dedicated backpack cooler. It combines the convenience of a backpack cooler with the user-friendly structure of a traditional soft cooler, including haul handles. Unlike other backpack coolers that can expand or shrink in size based on what is stored inside, the RTIC Soft Pack maintains its structured shape. This ensures that your items stay in place regardless of their positioning.

The RTIC Soft Cooler Backpack shares many characteristics with the other soft coolers in the RTIC lineup. Laura Lancaster

While the structured design makes it easy to locate items, it may not be as comfortable to carry as other models. The weight of the RTIC Soft Pack is held further from the body, which can increase pressure on the shoulders and affect balance.

Best Insulation: Icemule Jaunt

Key Features

• Capacity: 9 liters
• Weight: 1.5 pounds
• Insulation Test: 72 hours

Pros

• Affordable
• Lightweight
• Roll-top minimizes space during storage
• Zip pocket at front
• Great insulation

Cons

• No padding at the back panel
• Not fully waterproof

The Icemule Jaunt is a small and affordable option for those hiking in hotter climates who need to keep their lunch and snacks at a suitable temperature. It offers excellent ice retention, lasting up to 72 hours in the test. It provides ample space for drinks and food for two people and packs down efficiently due to its inflatable insulation, roll-top closure, and lack of rigid structure.

While the straps on the Icemule Jaunt are padded, there is no padding or shaping along its back panel. Laura Lancaster

Although the Icemule Jaunt features a zip pocket at the front, it could benefit from additional storage pockets on the side for holding other hiking essentials. It also lacks internal padding or shaping on the back panel, so careful packing is necessary to prevent discomfort caused by sharp objects pressing against the back. The roll-top closure, while effective at minimizing space during storage, is less waterproof than zip models and may leak water if left upside down for an extended period.

Best Value: Icemule Pro Large

Key Features

• Capacity: 23 liters
• Weight: 3.2 pounds
• Insulation Test: 48 hours

Pros

• Large capacity for the price
• Padded back panel
• Roll-top closure

Cons

• Less comfortable to carry

The Icemule Pro Large offers substantial insulation at a more affordable price compared to other models. It maintained ice for 48 hours, making it suitable for weekend camping or boating trips. While it is not fully waterproof, it can be carried and stored upright to prevent leakage as the ice melts.

A valve on the Icemule Pro can be used to inflate the insulation chambers for added insulation and then deflated for storage. Laura Lancaster

Although the Icemule Pro lacks a substantial hip belt for carrying larger and heavier loads, it does feature padding along the back panel for added comfort during shorter distances. Despite its larger appearance, it can be compactly stored thanks to the roll-top closure and deflatable insulation.

Factors to Look for in a Backpack Cooler

Ergonomics are crucial when considering a backpack cooler. It is important to choose one that fits your body comfortably, especially since these coolers can become quite heavy. Consider the type of straps that best suit your body and provide the most comfort. A backpack cooler with adjustable padded straps is a versatile option.

Since individual bodies have different needs, it is important to search for a backpack that meets your specific requirements.

How to Pack a Backpack Cooler Like a Pro

Kieran Kreevy, an International Mountain Leader and backcountry chef, offers tips on how to properly prepare your backpack cooler and its contents to enhance your outdoor experience.

Ice blocks and ice packs should be your primary cooling method, with ice cubes used to fill any empty space. It is important to fill your backpack cooler as much as possible to maintain cold temperatures for a longer period of time. If space allows, chilling the backpack cooler in the fridge or freezer before loading it can be beneficial.

"It's important that anything you plan on putting in the cooler is properly chilled," advises Kieran. "Even in freezing conditions, food left in direct sunlight can spoil quickly."

If you plan to bring meat for a barbecue, it is recommended to choose fish and beef over chicken or pork due to the need for extra caution. One option is to pre-cut raw chicken and freeze it, then transport it in a Ziplock bag or sealed container to prevent contamination.

Using insulated containers as an additional measure to maintain temperature is a great idea. Kieran mentions using them to transport ice cream, which remains perfectly frozen even after a five-hour hike.

Pre-preparing food is a time-saving and practical approach. It reduces the amount of food you need to carry and dispose of. Some ingredients, such as coffee grounds, can be easily buried and composted, but items like banana peels take a long time to decompose, so they should be carried out with you.

Properly loading your backpack cooler is essential when carrying food. Cooler temperatures can potentially spoil delicate ingredients like leafy greens and fresh berries. It is crucial to keep these items separate from the ice and cold blocks. Grouping cold goods separately, including drinks, snacks, and meal ingredients, also eliminates the need to rummage through the cooler and reduces the amount of cold air lost.

How Long Will Ice Last in a Cooler Backpack?

The duration of ice retention in a cooler backpack depends on several factors, such as the type of insulation, outside temperature, and frequency of opening the cooler. Ice can last anywhere from 12 hours to 7 days, with premium hard coolers offering the longest ice retention and simpler soft coolers typically lasting only a day in the sun.

How to Choose the Best Backpack Cooler

Weight

While the weight of a backpack cooler itself is not generally a major concern, as most of the weight comes from its contents, it is worth considering if weight is a crucial factor for you. Chilling your beverages before adding them to the backpack can help reduce the weight of ice.

Capacity

The capacity of a backpack cooler determines how much ice and other items it can hold. A smaller capacity is suitable for carrying beverages for yourself and a few friends, while a larger capacity is advantageous for all-day activities at the beach or other events.

Waterproofness

As backpack coolers often contain ice that can melt and create a mess, it is important to choose a waterproof option to ensure that the rest of your gear stays dry. This is particularly significant when considering backpack coolers that do not include ice packs.

Comfort

Comfort is a key consideration when purchasing a backpack cooler, especially if you plan on carrying it for long distances. While backpack coolers do not typically offer the same load-bearing capacity as hiking backpacks, there are noticeable differences in terms of cushioning and adjustability. It is important to choose a model that provides a comfortable carrying experience based on your preferences.

Advice for Buying a Backpack Cooler

Our Perspective on Backpack Coolers: Functionality and Ideal Uses

Backpack coolers are a specific type of soft-sided cooler that offers the convenience of a backpack and the insulation capabilities of a cooler. They are particularly useful for short trips to picnic spots or fishing spots, as well as for basecamping near water for a few hours. They can also complement larger hard-sided coolers by providing extra storage space for food and drinks when camping with a larger group.

Backpack coolers offer exceptional portability for outdoor adventures that require some walking. However, they are not well-suited for overnight trips or multi-day outings. Unlike hard-sided coolers that can keep contents cold for extended periods, backpack coolers are only designed to keep items cold for a few days at best. They also tend to have smaller storage capacities, usually around 30 liters at the highest end. Despite their modest capacity and performance, backpack coolers can be quite expensive. However, if hands-free carrying is a priority for your day trips, they are a worthwhile investment.

Sizes of Backpack Coolers (Capacities)

Different manufacturers use various methods to measure the interior capacity of coolers. Some use units like liters, quarts, or gallons, while others use the number of cans the cooler can hold. Backpack coolers are commonly listed according to their can capacity (hard-sided coolers are typically listed by quarts). It's important to note that the can capacity may or may not include the space occupied by ice. In our research, we have tried to provide accurate information about can capacity and ice inclusion in our write-ups and comparison table. However, it is crucial to keep this distinction in mind when shopping for a backpack cooler.

Backpack coolers come in a variety of capacities. For reference, the largest option mentioned earlier, the Hydro Flask 20 L Day Escape, can hold up to 36 12-ounce cans without ice. On the other hand, Pelican's Dayventure Backpack Cooler can fit only 6 cans with ice, according to Pelican's estimate. Our experience has shown that the ideal capacity for most backpack coolers falls within the range of 18 to 24 cans with ice. These sizes are sufficient for day trips or weekend road trips, manageable in terms of weight and portability, and do not require excessive space in vehicles or storage areas.

Ice Retention and Cooling Abilities

As mentioned earlier, backpack coolers have limited ice retention capabilities compared to hard-sided coolers. In ideal conditions, most backpack coolers can keep contents cold for a maximum of one to two days. However, several external factors affect ice retention, including air temperature, frequency of lid opening, exposure to sunlight, and ice-to-food ratio. To maximize performance, it is recommended to pre-chill the cooler by filling it with freezer packs or ice for a few hours before adding the items. When ready to use, replace the pre-chilled packs or ice with fresh ones in the optimal ratio for the best cooling results.

REI's Cool Trail Split Pack is rated to keep ice frozen for up to 40 hours. Most cooler manufacturers provide a "claimed ice retention" specification in their product descriptions. However, these specifications should be taken with a grain of salt as they are often exaggerated due to ideal testing conditions. In reality, you can expect to get approximately half of the claimed ice retention time in real-world conditions, depending on various factors.

CameBak's new ChillBak Pack 30 is well insulated with a claimed three days of ice retention.

Weight and Portability

One of the main advantages of backpack coolers over hard-sided coolers is their weight and portability. They are significantly lighter and easier to carry, whether you are hiking to a campsite or taking lunch and gear to a local water body for paddleboarding or kayaking. Most backpack coolers weigh between 2 to 4 pounds, with larger and more robust models weighing around 5 to 6 pounds or more. The heaviest model on our list is the Pelican Dayventure Backpack Cooler, weighing a hefty 9 pounds 4.8 ounces. On the other hand, the lightest options are the Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze (1 lb. 8.5 oz.) and Coleman 28-Can Soft Cooler Backpack (1 lb. 9 oz.). Comfortable shoulder straps and grab handles contribute to the overall portability of backpack coolers.

The YETI Hopper M20 is one of the heavier options at 5 pounds 9.6 ounces.

Carrying Comfort: Straps, Padding, and Support

It's important to note that backpack coolers are not designed for long-distance hauling like dedicated daypacks or backpacking packs. However, they offer hands-free convenience and make it easier to navigate uneven terrain compared to hard-sided or traditional soft-sided coolers. Most backpack coolers come with padded shoulder straps and backpanels for added comfort during transportation. They also feature exterior pockets and lash points for extra gear storage. Some models, like the ICEMULE Boss, RTIC Backpack Cooler, and CamelBak ChillBak, have hip belts that transfer weight to the hips, enhancing long-distance carrying comfort. However, for most users, hip belts are not necessary.

Based on our experience, higher-priced backpack coolers tend to have better suspensions and padding. High-end designs such as the YETI Hopper M20 and ICEMULE Boss provide excellent comfort. On the other hand, more budget-friendly options like those from Coleman and Arctic Zone may not be as comfortable for extended carrying due to less sophisticated strap systems and cheaper foam padding that tends to deteriorate over time. The shape and size of the cooler also play a role in comfort, with tall and rectangular designs being the least comfortable. However, all the models on our list are suitable for short trips to the beach, boat, or campsite.

Premium designs typically offer the best padding and support for all-day comfort.

Construction and Durability

The durability of backpack coolers can vary significantly depending on the model and the materials used. One way to differentiate between models is by looking at the denier (D) rating, which measures the thickness of the fabric. Rigid designs like the YETI Hopper M20 and Pelican Dayventure Backpack Cooler (both 840D) are known for their toughness and ability to withstand sharp gear without wear. ICEMULE's Pro Large cooler stands out with its thick (1,000D) dry bag-like exterior, which is well-suited for rugged outdoor adventures. Softer and more flexible options like ICEMULE's Jaunt 15L and OtterBox's Backpack Cooler are less burly and may be more prone to wear and tear, although they are still reasonably well-built for most casual outdoor activities.

The ICEMULE Pro is impressively durable with a thick shell that stands up well to rough use.

Price and build quality often go hand in hand. Budget-friendly options like the Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze, Coleman 28-Can Soft Cooler Backpack, and Carhartt Insulated Two Compartment Cooler Backpack may feel less sturdy and have cheaper components compared to premium models. If you plan to use your cooler regularly, especially around water, investing in a higher-quality option is recommended for better longevity and performance.

Waterproof Backpack Coolers

Many mid-range to high-end backpack coolers feature highly water-resistant zippers or openings to prevent leaks. Some models take it a step further and are fully waterproof, such as ICEMULE's Pro, RTIC's Backpack Cooler, and Hydro Flask's 20 L Day Escape, which have welded seams and watertight zippers. ICEMULE's Boss even includes an air valve to keep it afloat in rough conditions. Most other options are highly water-resistant and can withstand light moisture. However, if you frequently engage in activities like kayaking or paddleboarding, a fully waterproof option provides added assurance while on the water.

The ICEMULE Boss is fully waterproof with welded seams and watertight zippers to seal out moisture.

Hybrid Backpack Coolers/Daypacks

Some backpack coolers offer additional compartments for storing gear. For example, the REI Cool Trail Split Pack, Carhartt Insulated Two Compartment Cooler Backpack, and Pelican Dayventure Backpack Cooler have separate compartments designed specifically for food and beverages, as well as gear. These hybrid designs divide the storage space, allowing for insulation in the bottom compartment and gear storage in the upper section. The Pelican model is fully insulated, whereas the REI and Carhartt backpacks only provide insulation in the bottom compartment. The gear storage space reduces the overall cooler capacity, making these packs less suitable for large groups or situations where a full day's worth of food and drinks need to be kept cold. However, they are ideal for packing a light lunch and a few drinks. The removable cooler insert in the REI Cool Trail Split Pack also allows for using the entire capacity for gear.

The REI Cool Trail Split's hybrid design effectively divides space for food/beverages and gear.

Opening Styles and Closure Systems

The opening style and closure system of a backpack cooler can significantly affect convenience and overall performance. Different models employ various styles. For example, the YETI Hopper M20 has a magnet-equipped opening that easily closes but can be tricky to prop open wide enough for larger items. Many models have zipper-equipped openings that may require a significant amount of force to operate. However, these designs, like RTIC's Backpack Cooler, tend to offer better leak resistance. Hydro Flask's 20 L Day Escape features a watertight zipper that is easy to open with minimal force, provides a reliable seal, and is easy to realign if it separates.

Backpack coolers have a wide variety of opening styles, ranging from roll-top closures to zipper-equipped lids.

Another style to consider is the roll-top opening, which is used by ICEMULE, CamelBak ChillBak Pack 30, Engel Roll Top High Performance, and Pelican Dayventure. Roll-top openings provide a wide opening for easy loading and unloading of items. When combined with a flexible structure, such as ICEMULE's coolers, they can be easily compressed around partially filled bags. However, it takes more time to secure a roll-top compared to a zipper, and it requires the use of both hands. Each opening style has its pros and cons, but generally, a smoothly operating zipper, like the one on Hydro Flask's Escape, is preferred.

The CamelBak ChillBak Pack 30's roll-top opening provides quick and easy access to the interior.

Additional Features of Backpack Coolers

Pockets and Organization: Many backpack coolers include at least one exterior pocket for storing small valuables like phones, wallets, or keys. These pockets are especially useful for keeping track of belongings during day trips or beach outings. Water-resistant pockets provide extra protection against splashes or precipitation. Noteworthy backpack coolers with functional stash pockets include Igloo's Pursuit, Coleman's 28-Can Soft Cooler Backpack, ICEMULE's Boss, and Carhartt's Insulated Two Compartment Cooler Backpack.

The ICEMULE Boss has a large front stash pocket for storing valuables and accessories.

External Attachment Points: Many backpack coolers feature daisy chain webbing or attachment points on the exterior, allowing users to secure extra gear. This is particularly useful for keeping valuables like keys easily accessible by attaching them with a carabiner. The stretchy bungee system on models like ICEMULE's Pro and Boss is excellent for securing lightweight jackets or small towels.

YETI's Hopper M20 has accessory-ready exterior attachment points for gear.

Other Features: Some additional features to look for include integrated bottle openers and vacuum ports. The Engel Roll Top High Performance, Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze, Igloo Pursuit, OtterBox Backpack Cooler, and Coleman Soft Cooler come with bottle openers. The Engel also includes a unique vacuum valve system that helps maximize insulation power by removing excess air. ICEMULE's Boss has a similar valve system that allows users to add air for increased cooling capabilities or remove it to compress the cooler for storage. The REI Cool Trail Split Pack has a removable cooler insert for easy cleaning and full gear capacity usage. Some models also have attachment points for securing the cooler to a boat or truck bed for added security during rough waters or rocky drives. Additionally, CamelBak's ChillBak Pack 30 is the only backpack cooler on the market with a built-in hydration reservoir, making it ideal for activities such as climbing or group outings where hydration is essential.

CamelBak's ChillBak Pack 30 includes a convenient 6-liter reservoir for on-the-go refills.

Accessories for Backpack Coolers

Many soft cooler manufacturers offer accessories that can be attached directly to the exterior of their coolers. For example, Hydro Flask's 20 L Day Escape has thread-through points for securing their Dry Storage Bags in various sizes. YETI's soft cooler accessories are relatively limited compared to their hard-sided collection, but their SideKick Dry Gear Case that attaches to the HitchPoint grid on the Hopper M20 is a great addition. The Molle Zinger from YETI is another useful accessory for securing multitools or bottle openers.

Price: Budget vs. Premium Backpack Coolers

Can You Use The Yeti Backpack As A Cooler?

Unfortunately, the Yeti Hopper M20 Soft Backpack Cooler has been recalled due to a potential safety issue. The magnet-lined lid of the cooler can release its magnets, which poses various risks. While it is possible to use the Yeti backpack as a cooler, it is strongly recommended that you contact the brand to initiate a recall claim and return the cooler.

What Is A Hybrid Backpack Cooler?

Differentiating hybrid backpack coolers from regular ones is not a straightforward task. The classification is primarily based on the amount of storage capacity each type offers.

For instance, some backpack coolers provide a significant amount of extra storage space for books and gear, essentially functioning as multi-purpose bags. On the other hand, some backpack coolers are essentially one large insulated bag with no additional compartments.

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In conclusion, when it comes to choosing the best backpack cooler, there are several key factors to consider. From durability and insulation capabilities to size and comfort, it's important to weigh all options before making a purchase. Additionally, understanding how to properly pack a backpack cooler and maximize ice retention can make all the difference in keeping your items cool for a longer period. With the information provided in this article, you can confidently browse through our backpack cooler comparison chart and make an informed decision. So whether you're heading out for a day at the beach or embarking on a weekend camping trip, make sure you have the best backpack cooler by your side to keep your drinks and snacks chilled and ready to enjoy.