10 Best Camping Coolers 2026 in the United States

The YETI Hopper M30 is a strong choice if you want a portable soft cooler that holds up well in outdoor camping settings. It offers a decent capacity with 30 liters, enough to store food and drinks for a small group. Its insulation uses YETI’s ColdCell foam, which is well-regarded for keeping ice cold longer than many competitors, helping your items stay fresh on hot days.

The cooler’s DryHide shell is built tough with high-density fabric that resists punctures and protects against sun damage, making it durable for rugged use. Portability is a focus here—the soft-sided design and a clever wide-mouth opening with magnetic seals make it easy to load and access your gear. Plus, it includes a HitchPoint grid for attaching extra gear like tool holders or dry cases, which is handy for camping setups.

While the soft design improves portability, it may not offer the same rigid structure as hard coolers, which some users prefer for stacking or extreme durability. Also, the price point tends to be higher than basic soft coolers, reflecting its premium materials and features. If you’re looking for a reliable, well-insulated cooler that’s easy to carry and has useful extras for camping, the YETI Hopper M30 fits that need well.

The YETI Hopper M20 Backpack Cooler is designed for campers who want a portable, hands-free way to keep up to 18 cans or 26 pounds of ice cold. Its capacity is ideal for day trips or short outings. The ColdCell insulation does a good job at maintaining cold temperatures, so your food and drinks stay chilled for hours. This cooler is built tough with a DryHide shell that resists punctures and protects against sun damage, making it durable enough for rugged outdoor use.

The MagShield Access is a smart feature: powerful magnets create a leak-resistant seal that’s easy to open and close, helping prevent spills without extra effort. Portability is a strong point here since it’s designed as a backpack with multiple handles, allowing comfortable carrying while keeping your hands free. The HitchPoint Grid is a nice addition for attaching extra gear, adding to its versatility.

The soft-sided design might not provide as much rigid protection for delicate items compared to hard coolers. Also, while the insulation is solid, it may not keep ice frozen for several days like some high-end hard coolers. The limited warranty and water-repellent shell offer some peace of mind but don’t cover all possible damages. The YETI Hopper M20 fits well for outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize ease of carrying and solid cold retention in a compact cooler, especially for day trips or short adventures, but it might not be the best choice if you need maximum ice retention or hard-shell durability.

The RTIC 65 QT Ultra-Tough Cooler is a solid choice for camping and outdoor activities where keeping food and drinks cold is important. With a large 65-quart capacity, it can hold up to 84 cans, making it suitable for group trips or longer outings. Its standout feature is the thick 2.4-inch closed-cell foam insulation, which helps keep ice frozen for extended periods – a big plus if you need your perishables to last several days. The rotomolded plastic construction adds to its durability, meaning it can handle rough handling, bumps, and outdoor conditions without easily cracking or breaking. This makes it reliable for adventures like fishing, boating, or barbecues.

This toughness comes with some weight; at nearly 38 pounds empty, it’s on the heavier side compared to smaller or soft-sided coolers, so it might be less convenient if you need something very portable or light. The size is also fairly large, so consider your space for transport and storage. On the plus side, it can double as a bench or tabletop, adding some practical uses at your campsite. Additional benefits include a 5-year warranty, which shows confidence in its build quality. This cooler is an excellent fit for serious campers or outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize long-lasting ice retention and durability over lightweight portability.