10 Best Soft Coolers 2025 in the United States

The YETI Hopper M30 Portable Soft Cooler is a solid choice if you want a durable and easy-to-carry soft cooler for outdoor adventures like camping, fishing, or picnics. It can hold up to 32 pounds of ice and drinks, which is a decent size for day trips or small group outings. The cooler uses ColdCell closed-cell foam insulation that does a good job keeping your items cold for hours, helping your food and drinks stay fresh. The DryHide shell is tough and resistant to punctures and UV rays, so it’s built to handle rough use and outdoor conditions.

One of the standout features is the MagShield Access system, which uses magnets to keep the cooler securely sealed against leaks but also allows the top to stay open easily when you’re loading or grabbing items. This makes it convenient and helps avoid spills. Portability is well-thought-out—the M30 weighs about 4.5 kilograms (around 10 pounds), making it light enough to carry comfortably, and the design includes a hitchpoint grid where you can attach extra gear or tools.

A few considerations include that this cooler is a bit heavier than some other soft coolers, which might matter if you want the lightest option for hiking long distances. Also, while the capacity is good for small groups, it might not be enough for larger gatherings or multi-day trips where you need to store more food and ice. Cleaning requires some attention to avoid mold or mildew, so regular drying and gentle cleaning are necessary. The YETI Hopper M30 excels in durability, insulation, and leak resistance with smart features for outdoor use. It suits those who want a reliable, portable cooler that can handle a bit of rough treatment and keep contents cold for a day or so. If you need ultra-lightweight or very large capacity, you might look elsewhere, but for most casual outdoor activities, this cooler is a strong, convenient option.

The YETI Hopper M12 Backpack Soft Cooler is a compact, well-designed option for anyone needing a portable cooler that keeps drinks cold on the go. With a 240 fluid ounce capacity, it fits about 20 standard 12oz cans or even wine bottles, making it ideal for day trips, hiking, or small outings. The ColdCell insulation uses closed-cell foam, which is quite effective at holding cold temperatures for hours, so your drinks stay refreshingly chilled. The DryHide shell material is durable and resistant to punctures and UV damage, helping the cooler last through rough outdoor use.

Portability is a strong point here: it’s designed as a backpack with multiple carry handles and a Kangaroo pocket for easy access to essentials like your phone and keys without opening the main compartment. The MagShield Access system is a standout feature, using magnets to create a strong leak-proof seal that also stays open when you need it, offering convenience and protection against spills.

The size is somewhat compact, so it might not suit larger groups or longer trips needing more storage. The vinyl material, while tough, might feel a bit stiff compared to softer fabrics, which could impact comfort depending on your carry style. The price point tends to be on the higher side given its premium features. If you prioritize reliable cold retention, leak-proof design, and hands-free portability in a tough, stylish package, this cooler backpack represents a solid choice. For those needing bigger capacity or softer carry materials, other options might be more suitable.

The Stanley All Day Julienne Mini Soft Cooler Bag and Lunch Box is a compact and lightweight option for those who need a portable solution for keeping their food and drinks cool. It has a capacity of 7.2 quarts, which fits up to 10 cans, making it suitable for a full day of refreshments. One of its standout features is the insulation, which can keep contents chilled for up to 12 hours, ensuring your food and drinks stay cool throughout the day.

Made from recycled polyester, it is both durable and eco-friendly, and the 'doctor's bag' design with a hinged top allows for easy access to the contents. The cooler also comes with a detachable shoulder strap for easy carrying and a front zip pocket for additional storage, making it versatile for various activities like picnics, beach trips, and hikes.

On the downside, it may not be large enough for those needing to pack more than 10 cans or additional large items. Additionally, while the cooler is leak-proof, it requires hand washing or gentle machine washing, which might be less convenient for some users. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Stanley cooler's durability and lifetime warranty make it a dependable choice for long-term use.