10 Best Soft Sided Coolers 2026 in the United States

The Titan by Arctic Zone 16 Can Zipperless Soft Cooler is a well-designed option for those needing a moderately sized cooler for camping, picnics, travel, or even power outages. It can hold up to 16 cans, which suits small groups or day trips. Its insulation, called Deep Freeze Performance Insulation, works well to keep ice for up to two days, making it reliable for short outdoor adventures. The zipperless lid is a standout feature, allowing quick and easy access without fumbling with zippers, which adds convenience. Plus, the HardBody liner with the removable SmartShelf helps organize food without squashing softer items, showing thoughtful design.

Portability is enhanced by an adjustable shoulder strap with padding, making it comfortable to carry despite weighing about 2.3 pounds. The cooler's exterior is water and stain repellent, and the interior lining is leak-proof and has Microban protection, offering good durability and hygiene. However, the 5.66-liter capacity may be limiting for larger groups or longer trips where more storage is needed. While it's water resistant, it may not withstand heavy rain or submersion like some hard coolers.

This cooler represents a solid choice for those seeking a compact, practical soft-sided cooler with innovative features for everyday outdoor use.

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 Flip 18 is a portable soft-sided cooler designed to keep your drinks and food cold for extended periods. It holds about 16 cans plus ice, which is a good size for personal use or small group outings. Thanks to its ColdCell insulation, which is a special closed-cell foam, it keeps ice frozen much longer than many other soft coolers. The cooler’s DryHide shell is both waterproof and highly durable, resisting punctures, UV damage, and abrasions—ideal for outdoor adventures like hunting, boating, or camping.

Its HydroLok zipper is completely leakproof, preventing any spills no matter how bumpy your trip gets. Weighing just over 5 pounds and with compact dimensions, it’s easy to carry yet sturdy enough to handle rough conditions. One thing to keep in mind is that it requires hand washing, which might take a little extra care compared to easy-clean hard coolers. Also, while it is tough, the price might be higher than simpler soft coolers.

If you want a reliable, tough, and well-insulated soft cooler for personal outdoor activities, the YETI Hopper Flip 18 fits well. However, if you need a larger capacity or a very budget-friendly option, you might want to check other models.