10 Best Insulated Backpack Coolers 2025 in the United States

The YETI Hopper M20 Backpack Soft Sided Cooler is a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts who want a durable, hands-free way to keep drinks and food cold. It holds about 18 cans or 26 pounds of ice, which is a moderate capacity—good for day trips, hiking, fishing, or picnics but not large enough for extended group outings. Its ColdCell insulation uses closed-cell foam to keep contents ice cold for hours, a key feature for any cooler backpack. The MagShield Access with magnets is a clever design that helps prevent leaks while making it easy to open and close, adding convenience on the go.

Comfort-wise, it’s designed as a backpack, so it frees your hands and distributes weight, though it weighs around 3.45 kg (about 7.6 lbs) when empty, which may feel a bit heavy for some during long hikes. The DryHide shell fabric makes it tough against punctures and UV damage, enhancing durability for outdoor use. Additional features like the HitchPoint Grid let you attach extra gear or tools, adding versatility.

With its relatively higher weight and moderate capacity, it’s best suited for solo adventurers or small groups rather than large parties. If you prioritize high-quality insulation and durable materials in a handy backpack style, the YETI Hopper M20 is worth considering.

The YETI Hopper M12 Backpack Soft Sided Cooler stands out with its impressive ability to carry up to 20 cans of beverages or 12 pounds of ice, which speaks well for its capacity. The MAGSHIELD ACCESS feature ensures the cooler is ultra leak-resistant and easy to use, which is a significant advantage for users on the go.

Additionally, the COLDCELL INSULATION ensures that contents remain cold for extended periods, which is crucial for outdoor activities like camping and hiking. The DRYHIDE SHELL adds to the cooler’s durability, making it resistant to punctures and UV rays, a thoughtful inclusion for those who frequent rugged environments.

The kangaroo pocket adds convenience, allowing users to store small but essential items such as phones, keys, or wallets securely. However, the cooler's weight might be a downside for some, as it weighs over 3 kilograms, which could be cumbersome for long treks or when fully packed. Comfort and fit are essential for backpacks, and while the YETI M12 offers hands-free convenience, some users might find the dimensions (8 x 17 x 16 inches) bulky or challenging to fit their personal comfort. Despite these minor issues, the YETI Hopper M12 is an excellent choice for those who prioritize durability, insulation, and the convenience of hands-free carrying in their outdoor adventures.

The YETI Hopper Flip 12 Portable Cooler is a robust option for those in need of a high-performance cooler. Its ColdCell Insulation is a standout feature, ensuring that contents remain cold longer compared to regular soft coolers. With a capacity to hold up to 12 cans plus ice, it offers ample storage for a day outing.

However, it’s not the lightest option at 3.1 pounds when empty, which might be a consideration for those planning to carry it over long distances. The high-density fabric and DryHide Shell contribute to its exceptional durability, making it resistant to punctures, abrasions, and UV rays. This makes it ideal for outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, or boating.

The 100% leakproof HydroLok Zipper is another notable feature, though it might be a bit stiff to operate initially. Comfort and fit seem lacking in the description, suggesting it may not be designed with extended carrying in mind. The YETI Hopper Flip 12 is best suited for users who prioritize superior insulation and durability in demanding outdoor conditions over lightweight portability.