10 Best Backpack Coolers 2025 in the United States

The SPARTER Backpack Cooler is designed for those who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, camping, or beach outings. It holds up to 30 cans, making it spacious for food and drinks. The cooler's insulation capabilities are notable, retaining chill for up to 20 hours, thanks to the thick 8 mm foam and advanced seal technology. This feature is particularly beneficial for long days outdoors when keeping beverages cold is essential.

In terms of practicality, the leak-proof liner offers peace of mind, although users need to be cautious about the zipper area not being completely leak-proof. The inclusion of double insulated compartments allows for convenient separation of drinks and dry foods, while additional pockets provide space for personal items like your phone or snacks.

Lightweight at just 1.1 pounds, this backpack cooler is easy to carry, and the padded shoulder straps enhance comfort during travel. The water-resistant nylon material adds to its durability, making it suitable for various weather conditions. Potential users should note the cooler's weight capacity and design. Although it can hold up to 30 cans, it may become cumbersome to carry when fully loaded. Additionally, while the leak-proof feature works well for the liner, the zipper’s limitations could lead to spills if not handled carefully. Its hand-wash care instruction might also be inconvenient for some users.

The YETI Hopper M20 Backpack Soft Sided Cooler is designed for outdoor activities like picnics, fishing, camping, and hiking, making it a solid choice if you want to keep your drinks and food cold while on the move. It can hold up to 36 cans or 22 pounds of ice, which is a decent size for day trips or small groups. Its ColdCell insulation uses closed-cell foam, so it does a good job at keeping items cold for hours, which is great if you’re out all day.

The cooler weighs about 6 pounds, which is a bit on the heavier side compared to some soft coolers, but the backpack design helps distribute the weight and frees your hands. The DryHide shell fabric is strong and resistant to punctures and UV rays, adding to its durability, so it should stand up well to rough outdoor use. Comfort-wise, the backpack style can be easier to carry over long distances than a traditional cooler with handles.

Additional features like the MagShield Access system make it simple to open and close securely, reducing leaks and spills, while the HitchPoint grid lets you attach other gear or accessories conveniently. One downside is that it’s not a very large cooler, so it might not be ideal if you need to carry a lot of food or drinks for a bigger group or longer trip. The price might also be higher than some basic models, but it reflects its quality and thoughtful design. For reliable, sturdy cooler backpack with good insulation and extra handy features, especially for day outings or light camping, the YETI Hopper M20 is a strong pick.

The YETI Hopper M12 Backpack Soft Sided Cooler in Charcoal is designed for those who need to keep their beverages or ice cold while having their hands free. With the capacity to carry up to 20 cans or 12 pounds of ice, it offers ample storage for a day trip or a small gathering. The MAGSHIELD Access feature is a standout, with durable magnets that provide an ultra leak-resistant seal, making it easy to open and close the cooler securely. The closed-cell foam insulation, known as COLDCELL, ensures impressive cold retention, keeping your items frosty for extended periods.

The high-density DRYHIDE Shell material enhances durability by resisting punctures and UV rays, which is vital for outdoor use. Comfort is addressed with its backpack design, distributing weight evenly for easier carrying. Additionally, the external Kangaroo Pocket provides convenient storage for small essentials like phones, keys, or condiments. Weighing approximately 3.06 kilograms, it is relatively lightweight for its size and capacity.

However, some users might find the weight a bit heavy when fully loaded, especially over long distances. The price point may also be a consideration, as YETI products tend to be on the higher end. Ideal for campers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts, this cooler combines functionality with durability but may not be necessary for casual users who need a simpler and more affordable option.