10 Best Small Coolers 2025 in the United States

The Titan by Arctic Zone Deep Freeze Cooler is a versatile choice for those needing a reliable cooler for picnics, fishing trips, or camping. With a capacity to hold up to 30 cans and a user-friendly zipperless design, it allows easy access to its contents. The Deep Freeze insulation is a standout feature, promising to keep ice for up to two days, which is handy for short trips. The SmartShelf inside is a clever addition, letting you separate hard items from soft, preventing your sandwiches from getting squished.

Portability is well-thought-out with the adjustable shoulder strap that includes a non-slip pad, making it more comfortable to carry over distances. Its water-resistant and stain-resistant exterior adds to its durability, making it suitable for outdoor use. Additionally, the cooler is straightforward to clean with just soap and water. However, its capacity of 10.65 liters might be limiting for larger groups or longer outings. The cooler's relatively small dimensions could also restrict the size of items you can store inside.

While it does the job well for short, casual outdoor activities, those requiring extended ice retention for more than two days might need to consider other options. The cooler's strong customer ratings suggest that it meets the needs of most users within its category, but it's best suited for day trips or weekend getaways. Its rugged construction and thoughtful features make it a convenient companion for outdoor enthusiasts who value easy access and efficient storage.

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 Hopper Flip 12 Portable Cooler in Navy is an excellent choice for those needing a reliable small cooler. With a capacity of up to 12 cans plus ice, it has enough space for a day’s worth of beverages. The ColdCell Insulation, made from closed-cell foam, ensures superior cold retention, keeping your items chilled longer than ordinary soft coolers. Weighing just 3.1 lbs when empty, it's relatively lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry for outdoor activities like fishing, hunting, or picnics.

The high-density fabric and DryHide Shell stand out for their durability, being puncture-resistant and able to withstand UV light, ensuring longevity even in harsh conditions. Additionally, the 100% leakproof HydroLok Zipper prevents any spills, offering peace of mind during transport. The dimensions (12 5/8 in long x 10 in wide x 11 ½ in high) make it compact yet spacious enough for your needs.

However, its price point might be higher compared to other small coolers, and the zipper can be a bit stiff to operate initially. This cooler is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who value durability and high performance in their gear.