The 8 Best Backpack Coolers of 2019
The 8 Best Waterproof Backpacks of 2019
The 8 Best Soft Coolers of 2019
Our Top Picks
Best Overall: Polar Bear Coolers Solar Bear Series Soft Cooler
The nylon case covered with a system of UV protection and moisture protection allows you to protect the contents of the cooler. The cooling system allows you to keep the cargo frozen for 24 hours. Belt adjustment system and helps maintain an equal load on the shoulders. Mesh pocket allows you to save all the necessary things and small items. The technology of thin seams allows you to achieve maximum material strength. Due to this feature, the backpack is resistant to mechanical damage. It is one of the best coolers on the market.
Runner-Up, Best Overall: Igloo Marine Ultra Square Coolers
The Igloo Marine Ultra Square Cooler is a universal solution for the safety of all things and tourist equipment. The cover of the backpack is protected by a locking system. The case is resistant to ultraviolet rays, bacteria and moisture. Special impregnation of the upper layer blocks the formation of stains and odor. You can safely keep your products chilled. MaxCold technology enhances the cooling effect. Fastening and lightning systems are protected against corrosion. Special pockets are convenient for storing water bottles. The whole design looks stylish and provides good functionality for a long period of time.
Best Price: OAGear Backpack Cooler
The OAGear Backpack Cooler is a roomy device that can provide long-term cooling of food and drinks. It is enough to put all the necessary things in a backpack and hit the road. The outer cover of the cooler is resistant to dirt, moisture and sunlight. Special side pockets is suitable for water bottles or snacks. The system of belts and straps is conveniently fixed. The backpack is 12.25 x 16.5 x 7.75 inches. Different colors allow you to choose the most interesting combination of shades. This is a stylish cooler that will last you a very long time. Reliability and usability is an undeniable advantage.
Best Lightweight: TOURIT Cooler Backpack
TOURIT Cooler Backpack is lightweight and durable. Its weight is only 1.1 pounds. You can easily carry it in your hand or pocket in a collapsed state. The design and material of production is resistant to mechanical damage and moisture. The main compartment holds up to 25 liters. Lacing and mesh pockets are convenient for placing additional accessories or water. Users can place food and drinks in the main compartment for 16 hours. They will remain chilled. Three color variations allow you to choose the most suitable option. The backpack is 18 x 13 x 7.5 inches. This is the standard size that many tourists and travelers choose.
Best for Hiking: TOURIT Insulated Cooler Backpack
TOURIT Insulated Cooler Backpack is an advanced solution for all tourists, travelers and adventurers. This is a universal device. You can use it as a cooler or a regular backpack. The 25-liter compartment maintains the temperature of food and drinks up to 16 hours. The sealed compartment does not allow moisture, unpleasant odors, smoke or ultraviolet rays. The special storage compartment of things and gadgets is convenient for long distances. Users can even place the laptop in a special compartment. Special storage with a zipper and mesh compartments are convenient for small items and water bottles. The material of the backpack is resistant to mechanical damage and cuts. The strap attachment system provides a comfortable carrying backpack for a long period of time. A special pocket on the belt ensures the safety of smartphones up to 6 inches.
Best for Long Distances: IceMule Coolers Pro Cooler
XXL Pro Cooler from IceMule Coolers provides the ultimate volume. Want to carry things in a volumetric cooler? No problem! 40 liters is enough for storage and cooling of various things and products. The manufacturer claims 24 hours of work. During this period of time, all your drinks and food will stay cool.
Covering and upholstery cooler is very durable. This provides resistance to all external factors. You can go hiking, climb the rocks and ride a bike with this cooler. The ventilation system provides air flow to the back, avoiding excessive sweating. Chest fastenings provide reliable fixation in the mode of intensive loads.
A special air valve removes excess air from the insulated medium. The appearance of the cooler is very stylish, which allows you to wear it on any hike or for a walk.
Best for Hunting: Igloo RealTree 16 Qt. Backpack Cooler
Want a cooler with camouflage colors? Here he is! This cooler has a stylish appearance, special branded fasteners and is suitable for forest trips. Special MaxCold technology keeps food and drinks cool for as long as possible. You can put up to 32 cans of soda here. That’s enough for a whole group of friends. Convenient fasteners, handles and straps help you to wear a cooler and not rub your skin when walking. The pack measures 17 x 12 x 10 inches. This is a universal size that is convenient for men and women.
Best for a Picnic: ONIVA Picnic Time Turismo Insulated Backpack
The ONIVA Picnic Time Turismo Insulated Backpack is the best solution for tourism. Many people love a picnic and everything connected with it. The main pocket holds a large number of things. Special bottle rack is very convenient for storing bottled liquid. Storage compartments for small things are convenient and reliable. You will not have to search for the necessary things for a long time. The fastening system includes belts and clamps, which ensure reliable wearing of the cooler. The convenient bag does not rub a back and is convenient in daily use. Three color variations allow you to choose the most relevant color. The backpack is comfortable in extreme conditions and resistant to mechanical damage.
Products We Tested
How We Tested
Any buyer wants to have the best cooler for its price. We test specimens for 18 hours. Focus group filled backpacks with arbitrary food and drinks. After that, all test samples were placed under the direct rays of the sun. A few hours later we opened all the coolers and estimated the temperature of the contents. Focus group was surveyed for the most important functions of coolers. Based on the data obtained, a list of the most important characteristics was compiled. We pay attention to the appearance, workmanship, functionality and capabilities of coolers. Thanks to this, you can make an informed choice.
What to Look for in a Backpack Cooler
EXTRAS
The modern market is oversaturated with interesting cooler models. They all have similar characteristics, but different shape, strength and durability. Users should pay attention to the details that are important to them. Special compartments, buckles, webbing, and any extra options may affect the final choice.
VALUE
Pay attention to how intensively and often you will use this cooler. If you need this device once or twice a year, you can choose more economical and affordable models. Intensive use requires increased wear resistance. In this case, you need to buy a more reliable cooler. Also note that the design meets your expectations.
ACTIVITY
Please note that the modern range of coolers includes universal and specialized models. Decide on the type of events and format of use of the cooler. After that, you can choose the type of cooler and a specific price category.
Test Results: Polar Bear Coolers Solar Bear Series Soft Cooler (Best Overall)
- Effective
- Durable
- Comfortable
- Bulky
- Difficult to clean
This model was taken to the beach by one of the focus group participants. He left the cooler in direct sunlight for as much as 6 hours. The result pleasantly surprised him. All drinks and snacks remained cold. Moreover, the temperature was lower than in similar coolers. This allows you to choose this model as one of the most efficient coolers. Also, the user noted a convenient system of straps and straps. The only drawback was the cumbersome design and difficulty in cleaning the internal sections of the cooler.
