10 Best Coolers 2026 in the United States

The YETI Hopper M15 is a portable soft cooler designed for outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, or beach trips. It can hold up to 32 cans or 15.5 pounds of ice, making it a good size for day trips or small gatherings. Its standout feature is the MAGSHIELD ACCESS, which uses strong magnets to keep the cooler securely closed yet easy to open when needed, helping prevent leaks. The insulation employs ColdCell closed-cell foam that effectively keeps ice and drinks cold for many hours.

The cooler’s Dryhide shell is made from tough nylon fabric that resists punctures and UV damage, enhancing its durability. Additionally, the exterior kangaroo pocket provides convenient storage for small items like your phone or keys. Weighing about 2.4 kilograms (5.3 pounds), it is lightweight enough for carrying on the go, and its water-resistant design helps keep your gear dry. Cleaning requires hand washing with mild soap and air drying, which is typical for soft coolers but may demand some extra care compared to hard coolers that can be rinsed easily.

While its capacity isn’t huge, it is well-suited for solo adventurers or small groups. For those seeking a rugged, high-quality soft cooler that is easy to carry and effective at keeping contents cold for a day or so, the YETI Hopper M15 is a reliable option. If longer ice retention for multiple days or a larger capacity is needed, a bigger or hard cooler might be more appropriate.

The Stanley All Day Julienne Mini Soft Cooler Bag is a compact and stylish option for anyone needing a portable cooler for daily outings like picnics, hikes, or beach trips. It holds up to 10 cans or about 7.2 quarts, making it suitable for personal use or small group refreshment. The cooler keeps your food and drinks cold for several hours thanks to its insulated design, though it's best for short-term cooling rather than extended ice retention. Its unique “doctor’s bag” style top zipper offers easy access, which is convenient when you’re on the go.

Portability is a strong point here — the cooler is lightweight (around 1.2 pounds) and includes both handles and a detachable shoulder strap, making it easy to carry in different ways. The material is durable recycled polyester with a leak-resistant liner, so it can handle regular use without worrying about spills. Cleaning is straightforward with hand washing recommended, though you should avoid harsh chemicals to keep the insulation and fabric in good shape.

While it’s built to last and comes with a lifetime warranty, the soft-sided construction may not provide the same rugged protection as hard coolers if you need something for very rough outdoor activities. The ice retention is good for hours but won’t match larger or more insulated models designed for multi-day trips. This cooler suits those who want a stylish, easy-to-carry cooler with moderate capacity and reliable cold-keeping for everyday adventures.

The YETI Hopper M20 Backpack Cooler is designed for people who want a portable and durable cooler that lets them move freely, thanks to its backpack style. It holds about 6.3 liters, which fits around 18 cans or up to 26 pounds of ice, making it suitable for day hikes or short outdoor trips. Its standout feature is the MagShield Access—a magnetic closure system that keeps the cooler tightly sealed to prevent leaks but also opens easily when needed. The ColdCell insulation uses closed-cell foam, which does a strong job keeping ice cold for hours, so your drinks or food stay fresh longer.

The DryHide shell is made from tough, high-density fabric that resists punctures and UV damage, helping the bag last through rough outdoor use. Additionally, the HitchPoint Grid allows you to attach extra gear like smaller dry bags or tools, adding to its versatility. It weighs about 3.4 kilograms and has multiple carry handles for convenience. Cleaning should be relatively easy because of its leakproof liner, although, as a soft cooler, it might not be as simple to wipe down as hard-sided models.

The size is compact and designed primarily for hiking and active use, so it might not be the best choice if you need to carry a lot of ice or items for a longer trip. This cooler is an excellent choice for those prioritizing portability, ruggedness, and effective insulation in a hands-free design.