10 Best Small Coolers 2025 in the United States

The YETI Hopper Flip 8 Portable Cooler in Big Wave Blue is a robust and versatile personal cooler, well-suited for day trips, hiking, fishing, picnics, camping, and beach outings. With a capacity of 2.5 gallons, it can hold up to 6 cans plus ice, making it ideal for short trips where you need to keep beverages and snacks cold. The ColdCell Insulation, made from closed-cell foam, provides excellent cold retention compared to ordinary soft coolers. This means your items will stay cold for longer periods, which is crucial for day-long activities.

The cooler is designed to be highly durable, featuring a DryHide Shell that's resistant to punctures and abrasions, and a 100% leakproof HydroLok Zipper which ensures that no water gets in or out. This makes it reliable even in rugged outdoor conditions and resistant to UV rays. At 2.8 lbs when empty, it is quite lightweight and easy to carry, enhancing portability for outdoor enthusiasts. The high-density fabric and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) material add to its durability and waterproof capabilities.

The capacity might be a bit limiting for larger groups or longer trips, as it can only hold a small amount of items. Also, being a high-end product, it may not be the most budget-friendly option for all users. The design focuses heavily on durability and insulation, potentially making it more expensive compared to other coolers in the market. In essence, the YETI Hopper Flip 8 is an excellent choice for individuals or small groups looking for a reliable, portable, and durable cooler for their outdoor adventures.

The YETI Hopper M12 Backpack Soft Sided Cooler is designed for those who need a portable and durable solution to keep their beverages cold. It can carry up to 20 cans or 12 pounds of ice, making it a versatile option for picnics, camping trips, or any outdoor activity. The ColdCell insulation provides impressive cold-holding capabilities, ensuring your items stay cold for extended periods. This cooler's MagShield Access feature uses durable magnets to create a leak-resistant seal that is easy to open and close, adding to its convenience.

The DryHide Shell is made from high-density fabric that resists punctures and UV rays, enhancing its durability. Additionally, the Kangaroo Pocket offers extra storage for small essentials like a phone or wallet. However, it's worth noting that the cooler weighs around 3.06 kilograms, which could be a bit heavy for some users. Also, despite its high capacity in cans and ice, the actual fluid capacity is only 12 ounces, which might be confusing.

The backpack design is excellent for portability, keeping your hands free, but it might be less comfortable for extended carrying periods due to the weight. This cooler is particularly suitable for outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize insulation and durability in their gear.

The YETI Roadie 15 Hard Cooler is a compact and durable option for those who need a small cooler for activities like picnics, fishing, or camping. With a capacity to hold 22 cans or 16 lbs of ice, it offers decent storage for its size. The wine-friendly packing is a nice touch, allowing most standard wine and soda bottles to fit comfortably on their side. This is particularly useful for those who enjoy bringing along their favorite beverages on outings.

The DoubleDuty strap enhances portability, providing a hands-free option for carrying or a comfortable grip when needed. Additionally, the LipGrip handles stay out of the way, making it easier to carry without any hassle. The BearFoot non-slip feet ensure that the cooler stays in place whether on a boat or in a car, adding to its practicality.

However, the 2-liter capacity may be limiting for some users looking for more storage space. Cleaning is straightforward with warm soapy water and a dilute bleach solution, but users should be cautious not to submerge the cooler in water. Weighing 5.38 kilograms, it might be a bit heavy for its size, which could impact its portability for some users. The YETI Roadie 15 Hard Cooler is a solid choice for anyone in need of a tough, portable cooler with handy features, though its capacity and weight might not suit everyone’s needs.