10 Best Foldable Cooler For Travel 2025 in the United States

The Maelstrom Collapsible Soft Sided Cooler stands out in its category with a substantial capacity to hold up to 75 cans or a combination of drinks and ice, making it ideal for camping, picnics, and tailgating. Weighing only 1.65 lbs, it offers impressive portability. Its 5-layer insulation design, including thick, reinforced PEVA materials and EPE foam, ensures your food and drinks stay cold for up to 12 hours, which is a major plus for any outdoor adventure.

The cooler's durable construction with double-stitched carry options and reinforced pick-up points means it can handle a good amount of weight without falling apart, adding to its reliability for frequent use. Additionally, the unique design features like the Velcro opening for easy access, adjustable straps, carrying handle, and integrated bottle opener offer convenience and versatility.

While being lightweight and foldable, it might not offer the same level of insulation as some hard-sided coolers, and extended use under extremely hot conditions may challenge its cooling capabilities. The ease of cleaning could also be a factor to consider, though the seamless interior design helps in this regard. This cooler is particularly beneficial for users needing a portable, large-capacity solution for carrying beverages and food for various outdoor activities.

The CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag is designed to be a versatile and practical option for travel with a capacity to hold 30 cans and up to 35 pounds. The insulation provided by the polyurethane material ensures that your beverages stay cold, and the leakproof liner is a notable advantage, especially compared to other soft-sided coolers that might not be as reliable. Portability is a strong suit with this cooler, as it is lightweight at just 1.54 pounds and can easily be folded to a compact size of 3 inches when not in use.

The included shoulder strap and sturdy handles make it convenient to carry around during outdoor activities like picnics, camping, and beach outings. Durability is another highlight, with a hard bottom and sturdy hinges designed to withstand regular use. The use of recycled materials also adds an eco-friendly touch. Cleaning is straightforward since the cooler can be wiped down with a damp cloth.

Additional features include a built-in bottle opener, accessory pockets, and loops for attaching items like portable speakers or car keys, enhancing its functionality. However, the cooler might not be as durable as hard-shell coolers, and some users might prefer more rigid options for better protection of contents. Its soft-sided nature, while advantageous for portability, could be a drawback if you need something more robust. Despite these minor drawbacks, the CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag is a practical and efficient choice for those needing a portable cooling solution for various outdoor activities.

The RTIC Soft Cooler 20 Can is a versatile and durable option for those looking to keep their food and drinks cool while on the go. With a capacity to hold up to 20 cans, it is spacious enough for most travel needs without being overly bulky. The insulation is impressive, keeping contents cool for up to 24 hours, and even up to 2 days with proper use, making it ideal for longer trips or outdoor activities like camping and beach outings. Additionally, the cooler floats, which is a great feature for pool or lake use.

The heavy-duty nylon shell ensures durability, and the cooler is lightweight at just 3 pounds, enhancing its portability. The leak-proof zipper is a big plus, preventing spills and maintaining the cooler's integrity. However, cleaning may be slightly laborious since it requires hand washing. While it boasts a strong build, some users may find the zipper stiff and challenging to operate initially. Despite these minor drawbacks, the RTIC Soft Cooler is a reliable and efficient choice for travelers looking for a portable and insulated cooler.