10 Best Insulated Backpack Coolers 2025 in the United States

The YETI Hopper M20 Backpack Cooler is designed for outdoor enthusiasts who need a reliable way to keep their food and drinks cold while on the move. It holds up to 36 cans or 22 pounds of ice, providing plenty of space for a day trip. Thanks to its ColdCell insulation, it keeps contents cold for hours. The bag weighs about 6 pounds, which is a reasonable trade-off for its sturdy build and insulation, though it might feel a bit heavy if you plan to carry it for long distances.

Comfort and fit are enhanced by its backpack style, which frees your hands and balances weight better than traditional coolers. The DryHide shell fabric is tough against punctures and UV damage, ensuring it handles outdoor conditions without wearing out quickly. One standout feature is the MagShield Access—a magnetic closure that stays open when needed and seals tightly to prevent leaks, making access simple while avoiding spills. Additional practical touches include the HitchPoint Grid, allowing you to attach extra gear like bottle openers or dry cases.

While the bag is portable, the 6-pound weight plus the load can become bulky for some users, and it is pricier than basic coolers. The cooler’s cosmic lilac color offers a unique style but might not appeal to everyone. For those seeking a durable, high-performance insulated backpack cooler that combines convenience with strong cold retention, especially for picnics, fishing, or hiking, the YETI Hopper M20 is a solid choice.

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 SPARTER Backpack Cooler is a solid choice for anyone needing a portable and efficient way to keep beverages cool for up to 20 hours. With a capacity of 30 cans (12 liters), it’s spacious enough for meals, drinks, and snacks, making it ideal for beach trips, camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities. The 8 mm foam insulation and advanced silver PEVA seal contribute to its impressive cooling retention.

However, while the liner is leak-proof, the zipper isn't, so you need to be cautious about tipping it over to avoid spills. The backpack is lightweight at only 1.13 pounds and made of high-density, scratch-resistant nylon with a waterproof PU coating, which enhances its durability. Comfort is addressed with padded shoulder straps and back, but the fit can vary depending on individual preferences.

Additional features include two insulated compartments for separating cool and dry items, multiple pockets for accessories, and a convenient beer opener. Despite its many strengths, users should note that it requires careful handling due to the non-leak-proof zipper. It's well-suited for those who need a versatile and easy-to-carry cooler for various outdoor adventures.