26 Trendy Backpack Coolers for Every Journey

Setting off on an outdoor adventure means having the right equipment, and a dependable backpack cooler is a must-have. We've rigorously tested a variety of models to identify the best ones that balance durability, efficiency, and convenience.

Our findings focus on the unique features, strengths, and weaknesses of each cooler, suitable for everyone from occasional picnickers to avid explorers. With this guide, you'll find the ideal backpack cooler that meets your needs, ensuring your snacks and drinks stay perfectly chilled while you enjoy your outdoor activities.

1. Brew Chaser Backpack Cooler

The Brew Chaser Backpack Cooler is a sleek and functional accessory for any outdoor adventure.

Sporting adjustable straps for comfort and a front zipper pocket for essentials like your keys and phone, this insulated backpack cooler doesn’t skimp on convenience. Faux leather accents add a touch of elegance, while the zipper closure secures your chilled drinks.

The top-notch insulation keeps your beverages cool, and the custom designs set it apart. Experience the perfect blend of style and function with these structured backpack coolers!

Related: To personalize it with your logo, choose this cooler backpack, a unique blend of style and practicality for all your adventures!

2. ICEMULE Pro Large Collapsible Backpack Cooler

Take your outdoor adventures to new heights with the ICEMULE Pro Large Collapsible Backpack Cooler.

This hands-free, 100% waterproof backpack cooler features an Air Valve for extra insulation, keeping your drinks cold for 24+ hours. Crafted with a robust Muleskin exterior and interior plus Polar Layer insulation, durability is a given.

Welded seams and padded straps maximize comfort and ensure a leak-free experience. A soft-sided cooler that stands up to the rugged outdoors.

3. Personalized Carhartt Backpack 20-Can Cooler

This soft-sided, seam-sealed Carhatt Cooler Backpack is perfect for carrying your favorite beverages with you on the go.

With room for up to 20 cans, it is perfect for a day at work or a weekend by the river. The tough, durable construction ensures that your drinks will stay cold and fresh, no matter where you take them.

And for added convenience, this cooler backpack features hands-free carrying straps so you can focus on enjoying your time outdoors.

4. Titan Welded Backpack Cooler

Enjoy the perfect outdoor party with the Arctic Zone Titan 24-Can Welded Backpack Cooler. Its two insulated compartments offer ample space to chill your drinks while the leakproof, easy-clean lining ensures zero melted-ice issues.

Boasting a Microban interior and welded exterior that repels water and stains, it guarantees your drinks stay cold for up to 2 days. With this Arctic Zone Titan cooler, you're always party-ready!

5. Igloo Premium Soft-Sided Insulated Cooler Bag

Stand out with the Igloo Premium Soft-Sided Insulated Cooler Bag in stylish Chive Green.

With its 12-ounce capacity, this backpack cooler features an insulated liner in a smaller zipper compartment built into the lid, perfect for smaller food items. The exterior front zip pocket provides additional storage.

These soft backpack coolers not only make a fashion statement but also keep your food and drinks chilled and fresh. Enjoy your outdoor adventures with the right blend of convenience and style.

6. Hydro Flask 20-L Day Escape Pack

Explore the outdoors with the Hydro Flask 20-L Day Escape Pack. Its advanced insulation technology maintains a deep freeze for up to 36 hours, perfect for storing crushed ice or dry ice.

With a watertight TRU Zip zipper and welded seams, you won’t have to worry about leaks. The 600D polyester shell ensures durability, so you can conquer any adventure without worrying about your drinks.

This backpack goes beyond just cooling; it is a rugged adventurer's essential.

7. Under Armour 25 Can Backpack Cooler

Discover the durability and convenience of the Under Armour 25-Can Backpack Cooler. Unlike many backpack coolers, this one features a dirt and water-resistant outer fabric, ensuring your drinks stay cold and dry.

The LEVELED™ strap system and vented back panel provide carrying comfort for your outdoor escapades. With a large underlid pocket, concealed side pocket, and Molle webbing, there's ample space for extra gear.

These backpack coolers also have built-in fence hooks for easy hang-up and a bottle opener for added convenience.

8. YETI Hopper M12 Soft Backpack Cooler

The YETI Hopper M12 Soft Backpack Cooler is a cut above other coolers.

With a capacity for 20 cans and long-lasting ice retention, this soft cooler's unique MagShield Access and tapered design allow easy access to your beverages. The watertight zipper and UV, mildew, and puncture-resistant materials ensure your beverages stay cold in a secure cooler compartment.

Its ergonomic straps and kangaroo pocket add comfort and convenience for all your adventures. With these backpack coolers, you're always ready for the great outdoors.

9. ICEMULE Boss Backpack Cooler

Experience a new level of outdoor luxury with the ICEMULE Boss Backpack Cooler. This Icemule Boss 100% waterproof cooler boasts a roll-top design, ensuring easy access to your 24 cans.

Thanks to the Polar Layer insulation and Air Valve, it offers superior cooling for 24+ hours. The tough Muleskin exterior and interior further increase durability, ensuring your Icemule Boss cooler is ready for any adventure.

Comfort is assured with padded straps, making these 30-liter, soft-sided backpack coolers perfect for hiking, camping, and picnics.

10. Igloo Seasonal 18-Can Backpack Cooler

The Igloo Seasonal 18-Can Backpack Cooler is your ideal companion for road trips and all day hikes.

These backpack coolers feature adjustable shoulder straps, durable 420D printed and 600D solid polyesters that resist direct sunlight. The roomy main compartment, coupled with exterior pockets, provides ample space for your chilled beverages and other gear.

Adjustable, padded shoulder straps with air mesh ensure hands-free, comfortable transportation. The top handle adds versatility.

11. RTIC Backpack Cooler

The RTIC Backpack Cooler brings unparalleled convenience to outdoor adventures.

Unlike most designs, these backpack coolers boast a zipper-top opening for quick access and premium insulation for superior cold retention. Testers noted that even with a full load with cans or wine bottles, it floats, a unique feature not many backpack coolers offer.

The chest strap ensures comfort when carrying long distances. Ideal for any outdoor enthusiast, the RTIC Backpack Cooler redefines cool.

12. Igloo Pursuit 24-Can Backpack

The Igloo Pursuit 24-Can Backpack is designed for the active adventurer with a superior ice retention. With a top zipper for easier access, it keeps drinks cool and handy, even on uneven ground.

The secure front zippered pocket is ideal for your cell phone, ice packs, and other small valuables, while side mesh pockets accommodate additional items.

Comfortable sternum straps allow for easy carrying on long hikes. Enjoy the convenience and adventure with these Igloo Pursuit 24-can backpack coolers!

13. Embroidered Backpack Cooler

The Embroidered Backpack Cooler is a fusion of style and function. Available in eight custom designs and numerous embroidery colors, these backpack coolers will stand out!

Its soft canvas construction exudes a casual vibe, while the insulated lid and interior ensure your drinks stay chilled. The carabiner clip doubles as a bottle opener, perfect for impromptu gatherings.

Organize your essentials in the front zip pocket with three slot, and one open pocket and side mesh pockets.

14. Coleman Soft Cooler Bag

This Coleman Soft Cooler Bag can hold up to 28 cans of his favorite cold beverages and keep it cold for up to 42 hours, thanks to their ice retention technology.

This insulated backpack cooler Includes adjustable straps for added comfort, a front flap pocket, and side mesh pockets for easy access to dry goods and accessories.

These backpack coolers come with a zippered main compartment with added insulation and durability.

15. Picnic Backpack with Cooler Compartment

He need not worry about the next picnic with family or friends with this Picnic Backpack with Cooler Compartment.

This insulated cooler backpack has a hand-painted design complete with utensils, napkins, a plastic chopping board, a waterproof blanket, a detachable wine holder with insulation and an ample insulation space. 

This premium picnic cooler backpack has everything he needs for the next picnic, hiking, road trip, etc.

16. Black w/ Grey Heat Transfer Cooler Backpack

This Black w/ Grey Heat Transfer backpack cooler is perfect for a picnic, ideal for a day at the beach, and optimal for the outdoors.

These best backpack coolers come padded with PEVA lining and a detachable, clear PVC liner, which is heat-sealed, making the cooler leakproof and easy to clean. It holds up to 18 cans.

17. FORICH Backpack Cooler

This FORICH Backpack Cooler has a large capacity. It can hold up to 30 Cans/30L and measures: 18.1" x13.3" x7.9".

These backpack coolers have enough space for all his necessities, such as meals, beer cooler, tall beverages, snacks, fruits, reusable ice packs, cellphone, etc.

These soft coolers can also hold four bottles of wine in the side pockets.

18. Leakproof Lightweight Cooler Backpack

This Leakproof Lightweight Cooler Packs Bag has a deep main storage compartment and is large enough to provide roomy capacity for your meals, snacks, beers, or other drinks.

These backpack coolers can hold at least 28 cans. It also features leakproof high-quality insulation material and has one main roomy storage compartment. 

The power of this insulated backpack cooler is about 25L.

19. Custom Party Beer Cooler

Gather your best buddies and plan a getaway. But before you do, hand them this Embroidered Backpack Cooler with their names embroidered in it.

This way, they may bring any beverage and food they like without grabbing the wrong bag along the way.

This Insulated Sling backpack cooler is made from 210D Nylon material.

This insulated backpack cooler has a foil-lined main compartment with a separate insulated bottom room that can fit up to 8 cans.

This great ice retention insulated cooler backpack also features a sling adjustable shoulder strap, an open pocket with a side bottle mesh pocket.

21. TOURIT Cooler Backpack

This TOURIT Cooler Backpack is made of waterproof, durable fabric and the best lightweight backpack with a cooler for work, picnics, road/ beach trips, hiking, camping, and cycling.

These backpack coolers feature premium insulation material for an excellent ice retention and a leakproof liner that works together to ensure there is no leak.

22. Outer Woods Cooler Bag

The Outer Woods Insulated 2 Bottle Wine backpack cooler is a great option for anyone looking to take their wine on the go.

This insulated cooler backpack is made with durable nylon fabric and 5 times more thermal insulation that keeps ice retention the longest.

23. Blue Heat Folding Collapse Bag

If you are looking for a cooler bag that has it all, the Blue Heat Embroidery Name Folding Collapse Cooler Backpack is an excellent choice.

This backpack cooler is designed to hold up to 48 cans with its spacious interior and is built for durability with its exterior waterproof fabric construction.

24. Groomsmen Insulated Bag

This is the perfect backpack cooler for your next outdoor adventure.

Not only is it insulated and designed to keep your food and beverages cold all day long, but it also looks great with its high-quality exterior.

This Groomsmen Insulated cooler bag is perfect for a day at the beach or a hike in the woods, and it is sure to be the envy of your group.

25. Personalized Insulated Cooler Backpack

These personalized cooler backpacks are the perfect solution for outdoor adventurers who want to take their beverages along with them.

This Insulated Personalized Cooler included iPad holder is a great feature that allows you to keep your device safe and secure while you are out fishing, hiking, or camping.

This personalized cooler backpack is also insulated, keeping the ice retention in an excellent condition!

26. Backpack Cooler with Tap

If you are looking for sleek and durable hard coolers for your outdoor adventures, then an insulated Stainless-steel Backpack Cooler with a Tap may be the way to go.

This backpack cooler offers premium insulation, along with the convenience of having a tap right at your fingertips unlike most backpack coolers.

Not only will this cooler pack keep your drinks cold, but it also makes pouring a drink much easier than using an old-fashioned pitcher or jug.

Key Considerations When Choosing the Perfect Backpack Cooler

Choosing the perfect backpack cooler isn't just about aesthetics; it requires a thoughtful approach to ensure it meets your specific needs. Here are a few key considerations to keep in mind:

1. Insulation

The cooler's primary function is to keep your beverages chilled. Opt for a cooler with high-quality insulation material and technology to ensure your drinks stay cold for longer.

2. Capacity

Backpack coolers come in various sizes. Consider how many drinks you typically carry and choose a cooler that comfortably fits your needs.

3. Durability

Choose a cooler made from robust materials to withstand outdoor elements and regular use. Features such as water and dirt resistance can also enhance the cooler's longevity.

4. Comfort

Since you'll be carrying the cooler on your back, consider one with padded and adjustable straps for comfort. Some coolers also feature ventilated back panels for added comfort during long hikes.

5. Additional Features

Additional features like external pockets, bottle openers, and carabiner clips add convenience and value to your backpack cooler. Some coolers also have unique features like floating when fully loaded or built-in fence hooks for easy hang-up.

6. Design

Last but not least, your backpack cooler should reflect your style. Whether you prefer a casual vibe, a sleek look, or a touch of elegance, there's a cooler design for you.

Keep these considerations in mind, and you will find a backpack cooler that doesn't just look great, but also serves your outdoor adventure needs perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can you use a backpack as a cooler?

While traditional backpacks aren't designed to keep your drinks cold, backpack coolers, as discussed in this article, are specifically engineered to do so. They have special insulation layers that maintain a cold temperature for an extended period, making them ideal for outdoor adventures.

Q2: Why did Yeti stop selling backpack coolers?

Yeti hasn't stopped selling backpack coolers. In fact, we covered the YETI Hopper M12 Soft Backpack Cooler in this post, which is highly rated for its superior cooling capabilities and rugged design.

Q3: Is there a backpack cooler that doesn't leak?

Yes, many backpack coolers are designed to be leak-proof. For instance, the Hydro Flask 20-L Day Escape Pack and the ICEMULE Pro Large Collapsible Backpack Cooler have watertight zippers and welded seams to prevent leaks, ensuring your drinks stay securely chilled.

Q4: Are insulated backpacks worth it?

Absolutely! Insulated backpacks are invaluable for outdoor adventures, trips to the beach, picnics, and other events where you need to keep food and drinks cool. Their insulation capabilities, coupled with convenience, capacity, and added features, make them a worthy investment.

Q5. Will water leak out if the ice melts?

Generally, high-quality backpack coolers are designed to prevent leaks even if the ice melts. However, it's always a good idea to double-check the manufacturer's specifications for your cooler. Remember, not all coolers are created equal, and the leak-proof feature can vary among different models.

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