10 Best The Backpack Cooler 2025 in the United States

The YETI Hopper M12 Backpack Soft Sided Cooler is a versatile and high-performing option for those in need of a practical cooler. With a capacity to carry up to 20 cans or 12 pounds of ice, this cooler offers ample space for day trips or short outdoor adventures. The Coldcell insulation is a standout feature, ensuring that your beverages and ice stay cold for extended periods.

The durable MagShield access with powerful magnets makes it easy to open and close, preventing leaks and keeping contents secure. The high-density DryHide Shell adds to the cooler’s durability, protecting it from punctures and UV damage, making it ideal for rugged use. Comfort is well-addressed with the backpack design, allowing you to keep your hands free while carrying your items.

The exterior kangaroo pocket is a convenient addition, providing quick access to small essentials like your phone, keys, or wallet. However, the cooler's weight at 3.06 kilograms might be a bit heavy for some users, especially when filled to capacity. Additionally, its size (8 x 17 x 16 inches) might be bulky for smaller individuals or those looking for a more compact option. This cooler is best suited for outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize durability, excellent insulation, and convenience, and are willing to handle the extra weight for those benefits.

The Hydro Flask 20 L Carry Out Soft Pack Trillium is a versatile backpack cooler designed to keep your items cold for up to 27 hours. With a 20-liter capacity, it provides enough space to store drinks and snacks for a day out. The insulation is lightweight yet effective, ensuring that your contents stay cold when used with an ice pack.

One of its standout features is its easy-access hinge top, making it simple to load and clean. The cooler is built from 100% recycled polyester with a durable coating, offering water resistance and added stability thanks to its compression-molded lid and base. This makes it a durable option for various outdoor activities.

Comfort is also a key feature, with padded, stowable shoulder straps that allow for hands-free carrying, and easy grab handles for quick transport. However, at 2.02 kilograms, it might feel a bit heavy for some users when fully loaded. Additionally, while the 5-year warranty is a great perk, the cooler's relatively high price point could be a drawback for budget-conscious buyers. This cooler would be ideal for someone who frequently enjoys outdoor activities like camping or picnicking and values durability and good insulation.

The Maelstrom 35 Can Backpack Cooler is designed to meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts, offering a blend of capacity, insulation, comfort, and additional features. With a capacity of up to 35 cans (32L), it provides ample storage space, complemented by multiple compartments for organized packing. The high-density insulation material and leak-proof liner ensure food and drinks remain cold or hot for up to 16 hours, making it ideal for extended outings like camping, fishing, and hiking.

The backpack's ergonomic design includes padded shoulder straps and a back panel, reducing fatigue during long trips. The adjustable chest buckle helps distribute weight more evenly, and the handle adds to its portability. Durability is enhanced by the high-quality polyester material, although some users might find it less robust for extremely rough conditions. Weighing only 15.2 ounces, it is lightweight and portable, which is great for travel.

Additional features such as the stainless steel bottle opener, condiment storage pockets, and various attachment points for tools and accessories add practical value. However, the backpack's sizeable dimensions might be cumbersome for casual day trips or grocery shopping. The Maelstrom 35 Can Backpack Cooler offers excellent features for outdoor activities with its capacity, insulation, and comfort, though its larger size may not be suitable for everyday use.