10 Best Soft Coolers 2025 in the United States

The Titan by Arctic Zone Deep Freeze Cooler is a compact soft cooler designed to hold up to 16 cans, making it a good choice for day trips, picnics, or light camping. Its 12-liter capacity suits small groups or personal use. One standout feature is the zipperless lid that flips open for quick, easy access, which is convenient when you want to grab a drink or snack without fumbling with zippers.

The cooler’s insulation uses Deep Freeze Performance technology combined with a radiant heat barrier, helping keep ice and contents cold for up to two days—solid performance for short outdoor activities. The hardbody liner adds durability and includes a removable SmartShelf that keeps soft foods like sandwiches separate from heavier items, preventing them from getting squished. The material is water- and stain-repellent and easy to wipe clean, which helps maintain the cooler after outings.

Portability is enhanced by an adjustable, padded shoulder strap that makes carrying comfortable. The cooler’s size is somewhat small, so it may not be ideal for storing food and drinks for larger groups or longer trips. If you prioritize quick access, good insulation for short trips, and smart organization features in a lightweight, portable cooler, the Titan Deep Freeze fits the bill well.

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.

The YETI Hopper M20 Backpack Soft Sided Cooler is designed for people who want a portable cooler that keeps drinks and food cold while on the move. It holds about 18 cans or 26 pounds of ice, making it a good size for day trips like picnics, fishing, or hiking. Its standout feature is the MagShield Access, which uses magnets to create a strong leak-resistant seal that’s easy to open and close, helping prevent spills. The ColdCell insulation with closed-cell foam does a solid job keeping your items cold for hours, which is important if you’re outdoors for a long time.

The DryHide shell material is tough enough to resist punctures and protect against sun damage, so the cooler should last well in rough environments. A nice touch is the HitchPoint grid, allowing you to attach extra gear like a bottle opener or dry storage, adding convenience. As a backpack cooler, it’s comfortable to carry and keeps your hands free, but at about 3.45 kg (7.6 lbs) empty, it might feel a bit heavy when fully packed.

Excelling in portability and durability, this cooler fits well for active outdoor enthusiasts who want a reliable, easy-to-carry cooler with strong insulation and leak resistance. However, the 6.3-liter capacity may be somewhat small for those needing to carry a large amount of food or drinks.