10 Best Soft Coolers 2026 in the United States

The YETI Hopper Flip 18 Portable Cooler in Big Wave Blue stands out for its impressive cold-holding capacity. It uses ColdCell Insulation, a high-quality closed-cell foam, which ensures that your drinks and food stay cold longer compared to ordinary soft coolers. With a capacity to hold up to 16 cans plus ice, it is quite spacious for its size. The cooler features a 100% leakproof HydroLok Zipper, which is a significant advantage as it prevents spills and leaks, making it highly reliable for outdoor activities.

Its high-density fabric is another plus, offering resistance against punctures and UV rays, ensuring durability even in tough outdoor conditions. Additionally, the DryHide Shell is both waterproof and abrasion-resistant, providing extra protection against various elements in the wild. The cooler is specifically designed for personal use during full days of outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, or boating.

Portability is well-thought-out with this cooler, weighing 5.1 lbs when empty, and its dimensions make it easy to carry and store. It is slightly heavier compared to some other soft coolers, which might be a consideration if you need to carry it over long distances. The design, material, and additional features like its puncture-resistant shell make it a robust choice, but the higher weight could be seen as a drawback for some users.

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 Titan by Arctic Zone 30 Can Zipperless Soft Cooler is designed to hold up to 30 cans, making it a good size for camping, picnics, or travel. Its insulation is impressive, featuring Deep Freeze Performance technology that can keep ice solid for up to three days, which is useful for keeping food and drinks cold over longer periods. The cooler’s material, made from Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE), is durable, water-resistant, and easy to clean, helping it maintain a good appearance even after outdoor use.

A standout feature is the patented zipperless, flip-open lid that allows quick and easy access to contents without fumbling with zippers, saving time and preventing cooling loss. The included removable HardBody liner with a SmartShelf lets you separate delicate items like sandwiches from heavier ones, so soft foods don’t get squished. For carrying, it has an adjustable shoulder strap with padding, providing reasonable comfort despite its solid build. The interior lining is leak-proof and protected with Microban to help prevent odor and bacteria, adding peace of mind when carrying liquids or melting ice.

Weighing 3.5 pounds, the cooler might feel a bit heavy for some users compared to other soft coolers. Its 10.65-liter capacity may also be on the smaller side for those needing to carry larger quantities for bigger groups. Those seeking ultra-lightweight or very large capacity options might consider alternatives. Nonetheless, this cooler offers a smart, durable, and user-friendly solution backed by a lifetime warranty, suitable for most outdoor activities requiring reliable cooling and convenient access.