The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Soft Coolers: The Key Factors and Top Picks for Ice Retention, Durability, and Portability

When it comes to keeping your drinks and snacks cool on the go, soft pack coolers are the ultimate solution. Whether you're heading to the beach, going on a picnic, or embarking on a hiking adventure, these coolers offer the perfect blend of portability and functionality. But with so many options available on the market, how do you choose the best one for your needs? In this article, we'll explore the highest rated soft pack coolers, including their weight, price, size, insulation, and other important features. So, if you're on the hunt for the ultimate cooler companion, read on to discover everything you need to know before making your purchase.

Yeti 12 Soft Cooler

The Yeti 12 Soft Cooler is known for its outstanding durability.

CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag

Pros:

• The CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag can be easily folded and stored when not in use.
• It has a large volume capacity, making it perfect for storing a significant amount of items.
• The bag includes an integrated bottle opener for added convenience.
• It is portable and easy to carry around.

Cons:

The CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag has a capacity of 8 gallons, which translates to approximately 50 cans. It features padded insulation throughout and includes a built-in bottle opener. Its collapsible design allows for easy storage, making it a space-efficient option. The bag also offers additional stability with its wire frame and includes a grommet for hanging keys.

Pelican Dayventure Backpack Cooler

Most Packable

ORCA Walker Tote

Best for Winos

Weight

When comparing hard coolers to soft coolers, it is important to consider their weight. Hard coolers are typically made from heavier materials, such as rotomolded plastic, while soft coolers are made from lighter fabrics like nylon or vinyl. Soft coolers are the preferred choice when weight is a concern, as they offer a lighter alternative without sacrificing capacity or insulation. However, for situations where weight is less of a factor and greater storage capacity is desired, hard coolers are the better option.

Price

Soft coolers are generally more affordable than their hard-sided counterparts. For example, Yeti Cooler's soft-sided options are priced lower compared to their hard-sided models like the Tundra or Roadie. However, if price is the primary deciding factor, it is worth considering the Coleman Xtreme cooler recommended in our Best Camping Coolers guide. It offers a comparable ice retention capability to most soft coolers while being available at a similar or lower price point.

Some of the soft-sided coolers we tested side-by-side in Western Maine.

During our testing, the Yeti Hopper M30 demonstrated the best and longest ice retention, followed closely by the REI Cool Haul and REI Cool Trail Split Pack. However, the REI options showed some water leakage, while the Yeti Hopper M30 remained watertight.

What size cooler do I need?

Cabela's published a great article on this. When determining the size of the cooler you need, consider the number of people, duration of the trip, and the number of meals planned. As a general guideline, a 12-quart cooler can typically hold around 9 sodas without accounting for ice. Cooler manufacturers often provide specifications on the number of cans each cooler can accommodate, typically with a 2:1 ice ratio. For weekend trips, a 30-50 liter cooler should suffice, while larger families or longer camping trips may require a 60-100 liter cooler. Road-trippers may opt for a 10-20 liter cooler for easy storage and accessibility.

The Hydro Flask Carry Out cooler 20 hours into our ice retention test.

Capacity is a crucial consideration when choosing a soft cooler. It impacts various factors such as weight, design, and storage options. Our tested soft coolers ranged from holding a dozen to thirty cans-worth capacity, with an average of 18 cans. However, keep in mind that the amount of ice you want to use will limit the available space for beverages and food. If unsure, it is advisable to choose a larger size to accommodate both your items and sufficient ice for hot days.

Ice Retention/Insulation

The primary purpose of a cooler is to keep its contents cold, making ice retention an important feature to consider. Soft coolers vary in their insulation capabilities, with manufacturers often highlighting their ice retention rates in their product descriptions. The quality and amount of insulation in the design of a soft cooler play a significant role in determining its ice retention efficiency. Investing in a higher-quality soft cooler often translates to longer ice retention and better temperature control for the stored items.

For tips on maximizing ice retention, refer to Yeti's keep-it-cold guide.

Strap Design

Nearly all coolers featured in our testing include removable straps for cross-body carrying and handles for shorter distances. Some models, like the Hydro Flask Carry Out cooler bag, offer adjustable straps, although they may not be as easily removable as other options like the REI Cool Haul, OtterBox Trooper, or Yeti Hoppers. Others, such as the REI Cool Trail Split Pack, are designed to be worn as backpacks and have permanent straps. The choice of strap design ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific carrying needs.

Pockets

Pockets are a highly desirable feature in soft coolers as they provide additional storage options. Many top soft coolers include side pockets and front pockets for storing cell phones, wallets, straps, or even spare clothing. While pockets may not be as critical as ice retention or capacity, they offer convenient storage for essential items.

Leakproof

Ensuring that a cooler is leakproof becomes more important when planning for longer activities or road trips. While minor leakage may not be a significant concern during short picnics, it can become a nuisance during all-day events. Our coolers were tested for leakproof functionality, including upside-down shaking and stability on different surfaces. Some coolers performed exceptionally well, retaining airtight seals even in the most challenging conditions, while others exhibited minor leaks under specific circumstances.

Portability

Soft coolers are designed to provide easy portability. Our evaluated coolers feature user-friendly top and side handles, shoulder straps, ergonomic shapes, and lighter weights. These features make transportation more convenient, making soft coolers an excellent choice for on-the-go adventures.

Available Sizes/Capacities

While we couldn't test every size of every soft cooler, our top picks offer a range of sizes to accommodate various group sizes, activities, and available storage space.

Best Coolers for Outdoor Adventures

Orca Walker Cooler

We had the opportunity to test out the Orca Walker Cooler ($220) during our hiking and park BBQ adventures. This cooler is perfect for day trips and single-day outings. We were especially impressed by its durable 840-denier textile exterior, which withstands rough handling.

The cooler's metal-coated plastic blend insulation effectively preserves ice and keeps your goods fresh. The soft interior liner and waterproof zipper prevent any leaks from the top.

While the two side handles might not be the most comfortable to hold, the center magnetic handle provides a smooth grip. However, when the handgrip is detached into two separate pieces, it becomes less comfortable to grasp.

In our ice retention test, the Walker cooler demonstrated an impressive ice-holding capacity of up to 70 hours. It can accommodate up to 20 12-ounce cans.

We also tested the Orca Walker Tote ($197), which has a similar build and performed well, retaining ice for nearly 28 hours. For more detailed information, you can read our comprehensive review.

Specifications:

• Size: 14.5″ x 11″ x 13.25″
• Capacity: 33 L
• Weight: 1,633 g (3.6 lbs.)
• Ice retention test: Approximately 3 days

Pros:

• The waterproof top zipper and seams ensure no leakage
• Convenient small stretch exterior pocket
• Bungee cords for securing items

Cons:

• The magnetic split handle becomes less comfortable when divided as two straps

Check Price at AmazonCheck Price at Bass Pro

Hydro Flask Day Escape Soft Tote Cooler

The Hydro Flask Day Escape Soft Tote Cooler ($150) offers a streamlined, lightweight, and durable design. We found it to be ideal for park BBQs as it easily fits over our shoulders and is comfortable to carry.

The exterior is constructed with a waterproof 600-denier polyester shell. The watertight zipper and welded seams provide excellent leak protection. We did notice that the zipper requires both hands to operate, and sometimes the side handles need to be counter-pulled to open or close it.

During our ice retention test, we observed some sweating on the exterior of the cooler. The ice melted slightly faster compared to other coolers, lasting for about 60 hours, which is still above the brand's claimed 36-hour performance. The Escape cooler can hold up to 24 12-ounce cans.

Specifications:

• Size: 12.2″ x 20.5″ x 7.8″
• Capacity: 18 L
• Weight: 1,134 g (2.5 lbs.)
• Ice retention test: Approximately 2.5 days

Pros:

• The tote straps are comfortable for shoulder carry
• Watertight zipper ensures leakproof performance
• The cooler is completely waterproof

Cons:

• The exterior pocket lacks a zipper for additional security
• No integrated pockets inside

Check Price at AmazonCheck Price at evo

Mountainsmith Sixer

The Mountainsmith Sixer ($35) is an excellent lunch cooler for people on the go. Our tester, an electrician and avid mountain biker from Colorado, packed it with a canned drink, sandwich, fruit, and chocolate. The cooler's compact shape and size easily fit in a messy work truck.

Both the interior and exterior of the cooler are easy to clean. It has a durable build and a vintage aesthetic. The haul handle is ergonomically designed and comfortable to hold. However, on hot days, the ice tends to melt quickly, and the limited space in the cooler can cause the food to become wet. Nevertheless, the seamless liner holds the water without any leaks.

Based on our ice retention test, this cooler can maintain ice for approximately 25 hours. This cooler can fit twelve 12-ounce cans.

Specifications:

• Size: 11″ x 11″ x 6″
• Capacity: 12 L
• Weight: 499 g (1.1 lbs.)
• Ice retention test: Approximately 25 hours

Pros:

• The tote straps comfortably slide over the shoulder
• It's great for park concerts
• Zippered interior mesh pocket inside the cooler lid for utensils
• Two flat pockets on the side for additional storage

Cons:

• We'd prefer a sturdier lightweight removable shoulder strap
• Cooler bottom has the potential to absorb moisture
• The lid's zipper is not completely waterproof

Check Price at AmazonCheck Price at Backcountry

Igloo Pursuit Tote

The Igloo Pursuit Tote ($120) proved to be reliable during our car camping and crewing the Hardrock 100 activities, keeping our bubbly water, hummus, pepperoni, peppers, and arugula fresh. It was convenient to carry from the van to the hotel porch. We especially appreciated its lightweight design and flexible fabric.

The cooler offers ample storage space when expanded or can be easily compressed for storage. Its slender shape ensures stability during transport and comfortable shoulder carry.

We particularly liked the exterior front zipper pocket for keeping small items. However, the side mesh water bottle pockets felt flimsy and prone to snagging. The wide top entry with a two-way zipper was useful, although the wide rim made drying the cooler challenging.

When it comes to ice retention, this tote is a reliable option for quick errands and short trips. It's recommended to pre-cool the bag before use. According to our ice retention test, this cooler can keep ice frozen for up to 40 hours and can accommodate 30 12-ounce cans.

Specifications:

• Size: 22.4″ x 3.7″ x 15.7″
• Capacity: 21 L
• Weight: 907 g (2 lbs.)
• Ice retention test: Approximately 1.5 days

Pros:

• The tote straps comfortably slide over the shoulder
• Comes with a padded removable shoulder strap

Cons:

• Ice melts quickly in a hot vehicle or sunny conditions
• The top zipper is not waterproof and may leak
• A fair amount of condensation appears on the cooler's exterior

Check Price at AmazonCheck Price at Igloo Coolers

REI Co-op Cool Haul Soft Cooler

The REI Co-op Cool Haul Soft Cooler ($100) received high praise from our team. We used it for whitewater rafting, car camping, and crewing the Hardrock 100, and it proved to be a reliable companion. This cooler is an ideal size for two people.

The exterior of the cooler is crafted from sturdy ripstop nylon and is easy to clean. The insulated polyester liner inside is removable and durable, making it convenient to clean as well.

During our adventures, this cooler performed exceptionally well in terms of ice retention, exceeding the capabilities of other coolers we tested. The sealed seams ensure leakproof performance. The cube shape of the cooler allows it to fit into tight spaces on a boat or in a truck bed.

Based on our ice retention test, the REI Co-op Haul cooler can keep ice frozen for up to 60 hours. In terms of capacity, it can hold a dozen 12-ounce cans.

Specifications:

• Size: 14″ x 11″ x 11″
• Capacity: 15 L
• Weight: 1,415 g (3.12 lbs.)
• Ice retention test: Approximately 2.5 days

Pros:

• Daisy chain webbing and bottle opener included
• Interior zippered pocket inside the lid keeps food items above the ice
• Strong, smooth side and top handles
• Helpful cooling tips listed inside the pack's lid

Cons:

• The cube shape may bounce off your back when using the shoulder strap
• The top zipper is not completely waterproof, so caution is required
• The exterior front pocket lacks a zipper for securing items

Check Price at REI

KULA Soft Cooler

The 5-gallon KULA Softy Cooler ($240) stands out with its unique and playful shape. However, don't be fooled by its appearance––it offers excellent durability. The cooler's exterior is made from heavy-duty material that can withstand rough handling, and despite its sturdy build, it remains relatively lightweight.

There is also a smaller 2.5-gallon option, which is more suitable for one or two people on day outings or for use with compact vessels like stand-up paddleboards.

Based on customer reviews, this cooler performs well in preserving ice, even in hot and humid conditions like Texas' 90-degree heat, offshore fishing, and all-day boating in Florida. The ice is even reusable the following day.

Specifications:

• Size: 15.25″ x 14.5″
• Capacity: 18 L
• Weight: 2,041 g (4.5 lbs.)
• Ice retention test: Unavailable

Pros:

• Ample daisy chain attachment points
• Stylish design

Cons:

• Doesn't fit well in angular corners
• The zipper may be difficult to pull, but it comes with lubricant to ease operation
• Some users would prefer the cooler to be 1 inch taller to accommodate a bottle of wine

Check Price at AmazonCheck Price at BOTE

RovR TravelR

Our team was particularly impressed by the RovR TravelR ($100), which performed exceptionally well during our whitewater rafting trip, car camping, and while crewing the Hardrock 100. This cooler is the perfect size for a duo.

The cooler's exterior is made of durable ripstop nylon that is easy to wipe down. The insulated polyester liner inside is removable, making it convenient to clean.

When it comes to ice retention, the RovR TravelR surpassed our expectations. It outperformed other coolers we tested and proved to be highly effective in preserving ice. The sealed seams ensure no leakage. The cube shape of the cooler allows it to fit easily into tight spaces on a boat or in a truck bed.

Based on our ice retention test, the RovR TravelR can keep ice frozen for up to 60 hours. It can fit up to a dozen 12-ounce cans.

Specifications:

• Size: 14″ x 11″ x 11″
• Capacity: 15 L
• Weight: 1,415 g (3.12 lbs.)
• Ice retention test: Approximately 2.5 days

Pros:

• Includes daisy chain webbing and a bottle opener
• Interior zippered pocket inside the lid keeps food items above the ice
• Strong and smooth side and top handles
• Provides helpful cooling tips inside the lid

Cons:

• The cube shape may bounce off your back when using the shoulder strap
• The top zipper is not completely waterproof, so caution is required
• The exterior front pocket lacks a zipper for securing items

Check Price at evo

Key Factors to Consider When Buying a Soft Cooler

When shopping for a soft cooler, it is important to look for features such as leak-resistant or waterproof closures. Choose coolers with closed-cell foam insulation as they provide better cooling capabilities. Opt for coolers made from puncture-resistant materials to withstand regular use. While additional features like exterior pockets for utensils are advantageous, ensure they do not compromise the cooler's cooling performance or durability.

Recommended Amount of Ice to Use

To determine the best soft coolers, we conducted tests by filling each cooler with ice to observe how long it took for the ice to melt. According to our research and experiments, for optimal cooling, the cooler should have twice as much ice or ice packs as it does food by volume. For example, if you are chilling a gallon of milk, you should use two gallons of ice. However, using more ice will ensure better food preservation over a longer period of time. To preserve food for more than 24 hours, use a combination of ice chunks and ice chips, with the chips providing immediate cooling and the chunks keeping the food fresh for longer.

Tips for Keeping Your Cooler Cold Longer

• Pre-cool your cooler: Before use, bring your soft cooler inside your home if it has been stored in a hot garage so that it reaches room temperature. This prevents unnecessary ice wastage in an attempt to lower the cooler's temperature.
• Avoid using melting ice: Using ice or ice packs that are already melting will not keep your soft cooler as cold as freshly frozen ice. This also applies to ice packs.
• Keep it in the shade: Whenever possible, keep your soft cooler in the shade during your travels to extend the cooling of your food and drinks.
• Keep it closed: Minimize opening your cooler to preserve the cold temperature inside for a longer duration.

Using Dry Ice in Soft Coolers

Most soft coolers are designed to work best with ice packs or ice cubes. However, dry ice can also be used in soft coolers, especially if you need extremely cold temperatures to keep items like ice cream or meat frozen. Dry ice is advantageous as it evaporates, rather than melts, as it warms up, eliminating the need to deal with water puddles. However, dry ice does not last as long as regular ice. It emits carbon dioxide, so it should be stored outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. To use dry ice effectively, place it at the bottom of the cooler wrapped in newspaper, and place items that need to stay frozen or colder on top of the dry ice. Items that only need to be chilled should be placed closer to the top of the cooler.

In conclusion, when it comes to finding the highest rated soft pack coolers, there is a wide range of options to choose from. Whether you need a compact cooler for a day trip or a larger one for a weekend camping adventure, considering factors such as weight, price, size, ice retention, and portability will help guide your decision. Additionally, factors like strap design, pockets, leakproof features, and available sizes/capacities should also be taken into account. With so many great options on the market, you're sure to find the perfect soft cooler that suits your needs and keeps your beverages and food cool and refreshing. So, grab your cooler and get ready for your next outdoor adventure!