10 Best Cooler Backpacks 2025 in the United States

The YETI Hopper M20 Backpack Cooler is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable soft-sided cooler that you can carry hands-free. It holds up to 18 cans or about 26 pounds of ice, which is a moderate capacity suitable for day trips like picnics, fishing, or hiking. Thanks to ColdCell insulation made from closed-cell foam, it keeps your food and drinks cold for hours. The DryHide outer shell is designed to be tough and resistant to punctures and sun damage, making it durable for outdoor use.

One standout feature is the MagShield Access—magnets create a strong leak-resistant seal that closes securely but also stays open when you need easy access, which helps prevent spills. This cooler is also fairly comfortable to carry, with multiple handles and backpack straps designed for ease. It weighs about 3.45 kg, which might feel a bit heavy when fully packed but is reasonable considering the insulation and materials. The interior is leak-proof and easy to clean, an important factor if you’re carrying ice or anything that might melt.

Organization-wise, it includes a HitchPoint Grid to attach extra gear like a dry case or bottle opener, adding useful customization options but has limited built-in pockets for separating small items. If you want a rugged, well-insulated backpack cooler that balances portability and durability, the YETI Hopper M20 meets these needs well, especially for outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize keeping contents cold and dry. However, if you need larger capacity or more compartmentalized storage, you might want to consider other models.

The YETI Hopper M12 Backpack Soft Cooler is a great choice if you need a durable, well-insulated backpack cooler that can hold up to 20 cans or a couple of wine bottles. Its ColdCell insulation keeps your drinks cold for a good amount of time, making it suitable for day trips or short outdoor activities. The MagShield Access feature uses magnets to keep the cooler tightly sealed against leaks but also allows easy one-handed access, which is very handy. The DryHide shell material is tough, resistant to punctures and sun damage, so it should hold up well over time.

At about 3 kilograms (around 6.6 pounds), it’s a bit on the heavier side when empty, so comfort might depend on how much you pack inside and how long you carry it. It has a kangaroo pocket on the outside for small essentials like your phone or keys, but otherwise, the organization is simple—this cooler is mainly focused on keeping your items cold rather than storing lots of gear. The leak-proof liner is easy to clean, which adds convenience after use.

If you want a backpack cooler with strong insulation, solid build quality, and easy access, the YETI Hopper M12 fits well. However, if you prioritize ultra-lightweight design or extensive organization features, you might find it a bit basic or heavier than some alternatives.

The SPARTER Backpack Cooler is a solid choice if you want a hands-free way to keep drinks and food cold for outdoor activities like hiking, beach trips, or camping. It can hold about 30 standard cans or 21 liters, so it’s roomy enough for a day’s worth of snacks and beverages. Its thick 8 mm foam insulation combined with silver PEVA lining keeps items cold for up to 20 hours, which is impressive for a cooler backpack in this size and weight range (just over 1 pound). The backpack’s leak-proof liner uses a high-tech seamless process, preventing spills inside, though the zipper is not fully leakproof, so careful handling is needed to avoid tipping.

Made from durable, water-resistant nylon with a PU coating, it should stand up well to outdoor use while being lightweight and comfortable thanks to padded shoulder straps and back support. Organization is good with two insulated compartments, plus front and side pockets for smaller items, and it even includes a bottle opener. However, if you need a cooler backpack that can withstand rougher conditions or heavy rain, this model might fall short because of its zipper not being leakproof. Also, cleaning requires hand washing rather than machine wash.

The SPARTER backpack cooler suits casual outdoor use well, offering a nice balance of insulation, capacity, and comfort, with thoughtful pockets and decent durability. Users should handle it carefully to avoid leaks.