10 Best Backpacks With Coolers 2026 in the United States

The YETI Hopper M20 Backpack Cooler is a great choice if you need a portable cooler that keeps things cold and lets you carry your drinks hands-free. It holds up to 36 cans or 22 pounds of ice, which is a decent size for day trips like picnics, fishing, or hiking. Its ColdCell insulation uses closed-cell foam to keep your items cold for a good amount of time, which is important if you want to keep food or drinks chilled without constantly adding ice.

The unique MagShield Access is a smart feature—magnets help keep the cooler sealed tight to prevent leaks but also allow it to stay open easily when you need it. Comfort-wise, it’s designed as a backpack, so you can carry it on your back instead of holding it, which is easier during outdoor activities, although the weight of 6 pounds might feel a bit heavy when fully loaded. The DryHide shell material is tough and resistant to punctures and sun damage, so it should hold up well outdoors and last through rough use. There’s also a HitchPoint Grid to attach extra gear like a dry case or bottle opener, which adds convenience.

While it’s portable and durable, the M20's capacity is on the smaller side compared to some other coolers if you need to carry a lot for bigger groups or longer trips. The price, typical for YETI products, might be higher than simpler coolers. This backpack cooler is suited for users looking for a reliable, well-insulated cooler that’s easy to carry on moderate day outings, with added durability and handy features for outdoor enthusiasts.

The Hydro Flask Cooler Backpack offers a solid 20-liter capacity, which is enough to carry beverages and snacks for a day at the beach or a short trip. Its insulation is designed to keep contents cold for up to 24 hours when used with ice packs, which is impressive for a soft cooler. Comfort is enhanced by padded, stowable shoulder straps and easy-grab handles, making it versatile for hands-free carrying or hand transport.

Durability is well considered, with water-resistant recycled polyester fabric and a compression-molded lid and base that help the backpack stand upright and handle rough use. The use of 100% recycled materials and bluesign approval adds appeal for eco-conscious users. One drawback might be its weight of 2.2 pounds, which is somewhat on the heavier side for a soft cooler backpack and could add to the load when fully packed. Also, it requires hand washing, which means a bit more care in maintenance.

This backpack cooler balances good insulation, comfort, and an eco-friendly build, making it a great choice for casual beach days, picnics, or travel. Those looking for a larger capacity or more rugged features for extended trips might want to consider other options.

The Maelstrom Cooler Backpack is a solid choice if you're looking for a reliable insulated backpack to keep your food and drinks cold or hot for up to 16 hours. It holds about 35 cans (32 liters), making it spacious enough for a day trip or small group outing. The insulation quality is good, thanks to its high-density material and leak-proof liner, which also makes cleaning easier.

Comfort-wise, it features padded and breathable shoulder straps and back support, plus an adjustable chest buckle that helps spread the load and reduce strain during long walks or hikes. This can make a noticeable difference if you plan to carry it for extended periods. The backpack is also quite durable, made from polyester with water-resistant qualities to handle outdoor conditions. It includes handy extras like multiple compartments and pockets for organizing utensils, snacks, and accessories, a bottle opener on the strap, and clever holders for wine bottles, keys, and sunglasses. These thoughtful details improve convenience for camping, fishing, hiking, or even grocery shopping.

One minor downside is that its water resistance is limited (not fully waterproof), so heavy rain might be a concern. Also, the cleaning process requires hand washing, which might be less convenient for some users. The Maelstrom Cooler Backpack is a versatile, well-designed cooler backpack suited for outdoor enthusiasts and casual users needing a sturdy cooler on the go.