10 Best Outdoor Coolers 2026 in the United States

The YETI Hopper M20 Backpack is designed for outdoor enthusiasts, especially hikers, who want a portable and reliable cooler. It holds about 6.3 liters, which fits around 18 cans or 26 pounds of ice—a moderate size ideal for day trips or short outings rather than large group events. Its ColdCell insulation uses closed-cell foam to keep items cold for a long time, which is great if you need your drinks or food to stay chilled during a hike. The DryHide shell material resists punctures and UV damage, enhancing durability so it can handle rough outdoor conditions without easily wearing out.

One of the standout features is the MagShield Access, a magnetic closure that seals tightly to prevent leaks but stays open when you want it to, making it convenient to access your items without fumbling. The backpack style with multiple carry handles and a HitchPoint grid means you can carry it hands-free and attach extra gear like a bottle opener or dry bag, adding versatility for outdoor adventures.

On the downside, while the cooler is well-insulated, its 6.3-liter capacity is somewhat limited if you need to store larger amounts of food or drinks. Also, being a soft-sided cooler, it may not offer the same level of protection as hard coolers against heavy impacts. Weighing around 3.4 kilograms, it’s reasonably lightweight but might feel a bit bulky when fully loaded. The YETI Hopper M20 Backpack Cooler excels in portability, insulation, and durability for solo hikers or small groups who want to keep essentials cold on the go, but it might not be the best fit for those needing very large capacity or maximum impact protection.

The YETI Roadie 32 Wheeled Cooler is a sturdy and well-designed option for outdoor activities like camping, fishing, hiking, and picnics. It has a 32-quart capacity, which is enough to hold a moderate amount of food and drinks for a small group. One of its strong points is excellent insulation using polyurethane foam, helping keep ice frozen longer than many other coolers, which is ideal for extended trips. The cooler is also built to last, featuring durable polyethylene construction and components like neverflat wheels that resist punctures and impacts—great for rough terrain or crowded events. Portability is a big plus here: the retractable periscope handle and smooth-rolling wheels make it easy to move around without heavy lifting, while the LipGrip handles and BearFoot non-slip feet add convenience when carrying or placing the cooler on slippery surfaces like boats. Additionally, the included dry goods basket can serve as a built-in cup holder or organizer for smaller items.

The cooler weighs about 13.5 kilograms (around 30 pounds) when empty, which might feel heavy if you need to carry it for long distances without rolling. Also, while the 32-quart size suits most casual outings, it may be a bit small for larger groups or longer trips requiring more storage. The YETI Roadie 32 offers reliable performance with strong ice retention and rugged build quality, making it a durable and convenient cooler for those who prioritize portability and durability over massive capacity.

The YETI Tundra Haul is a heavy-duty outdoor cooler designed for camping, fishing, hiking, and picnics, offering a robust 64-kilogram capacity. Its standout feature is the rotomolded construction, which makes it extremely tough and nearly indestructible, ideal for rough conditions. The insulation excels at keeping ice frozen for a long time, which is beneficial for extended outdoor trips.

Portability is enhanced by the built-in NeverFlat wheels and a strong, comfortable handle that makes towing easier over uneven terrain. However, at 32 pounds, it is on the heavier side, so while the wheels help, it might still be somewhat cumbersome for very long hauls or tight spaces. The cooler is also slightly large, which may make it challenging to fit in smaller vehicles or compact storage areas.

This model lacks compatibility with some accessories like the dry goods basket or divider found in other YETI coolers, potentially limiting organization options. The cooler’s material is acrylic and requires hand washing, which might be less convenient compared to models with dishwasher-safe parts. This cooler is an excellent option for those who prioritize durability and ice retention in a portable package with wheels but are willing to accept the weight and size trade-offs.