10 Best Soft Sided Coolers 2025 in the United States

The YETI Hopper M20 Backpack is a solid choice for anyone looking for a portable cooler to take on hikes or day trips. It can hold up to 36 cans or 22 pounds of ice, which is a good size for small groups or personal use. Thanks to YETI’s ColdCell insulation, it does a great job keeping your drinks and food cold for hours. The DryHide shell is tough, designed to resist punctures and sun damage, which means it should hold up well outdoors. One of its standout features is the MagShield Access – magnetic seals that help keep the cooler leak-resistant and easy to open or close with a gentle push. This adds convenience and helps prevent spills. The cooler is shaped like a backpack, so it’s easy to carry hands-free, and it comes with multiple handles and a HitchPoint grid for attaching extra gear or tools, which is handy for outdoor adventures.

On the downside, the 22-pound ice capacity means it’s better for short trips rather than extended outings requiring large amounts of ice or food. Also, while the DryHide material resists water and damage well, soft-sided coolers like this generally won’t be as fully waterproof or rugged as hard coolers against rough treatment. The product is a well-made, durable, and portable cooler suitable for hikers and campers who want reliable cold storage without heavy bulk.

The YETI Hopper M12 Backpack Soft Sided Cooler offers a solid choice for those in need of a portable, durable cooler. With the capacity to hold up to 20 cans or 12 pounds of ice, it suits small gatherings or day trips well. One of its standout features is the MAGSHIELD Access, which uses powerful magnets to create a leak-resistant seal that is easy to open and close, adding convenience and reducing spills.

The Coldcell insulation ensures that items remain cold for extended periods, making it reliable for keeping beverages and food fresh. Its design includes a Dryhide Shell, providing robust protection against punctures and UV rays, enhancing its durability for outdoor adventures. The additional Kangaroo Pocket is a handy feature for storing small essentials like a phone or keys, though it may not be large enough for bigger items.

The cooler’s capacity is somewhat limited to 12 ounces, which might not meet the needs of larger groups. The cooler is also relatively heavy at 3.06 kilograms, potentially making it less ideal for longer treks. Despite these minor drawbacks, the YETI Hopper M12 stands out with its high-quality materials and construction, appealing especially to outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize durability and portability.

The YETI Hopper M30 Portable Soft Cooler is designed for outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable cooling and durability. Its capacity of 7.2 gallons makes it suitable for small to medium-sized gatherings such as picnics, fishing trips, camping, and hiking. The ColdCell insulation, made from closed-cell foam, excels in keeping contents ice cold, ensuring your drinks and snacks stay fresh for extended periods.

Portability is enhanced by its lightweight design and convenient bag format, making it easy to carry around on various adventures. The DryHide Shell made of high-density nylon is highly durable, providing resistance to UV rays and punctures, which is ideal for rough outdoor conditions. Additionally, the MagShield Access feature with powerful magnets ensures the cooler is ultra leak-resistant and user-friendly, allowing you to open and close it with ease.

Waterproofing is implied through the DryHide Shell and MagShield Access, although it is advisable to avoid sharp objects and direct sunlight to maintain the cooler's integrity. The cooler also includes a Hitchpoint Grid for attaching accessories, adding to its functionality. If portability, robust insulation, and durability are your priorities, the YETI Hopper M30 is a strong contender in the soft-sided cooler market.