10 Best Waterproof Soft Coolers 2026 in the United States

The YETI Hopper M20 Backpack is a high-quality soft cooler that can hold up to 36 cans or 22 pounds of ice, making it a good size for day trips or small group outings. It uses ColdCell insulation with closed-cell foam, which helps keep your items cold for a long time, ideal for keeping drinks and food fresh during outdoor activities. The cooler's DryHide shell is tough, designed to resist punctures and damage from UV rays, so it can stand up to rougher conditions.

The MagShield Access is a clever feature that uses magnets to create a very strong, leak-resistant seal while allowing easy access without struggling to open or close it. This adds to its waterproof reliability, ensuring no spills or leaks during transport. Portability is enhanced by multiple carry handles and its backpack design, which lets you keep your hands free and carry it comfortably over longer distances. The HitchPoint Grid is a handy addition, allowing you to attach extra gear like bottle openers or dry cases for convenience.

On the downside, the cooler weighs around 3.45 kilograms (7.6 pounds) when empty, which might feel a bit heavy for some users, especially if you plan to carry it for very long periods. Also, while it offers excellent cold retention, soft coolers generally won't match the ice retention time of hard-sided coolers. This product suits campers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts who want a durable, well-insulated, and waterproof soft cooler with easy access and good carrying options.

The YETI Hopper M12 Backpack Soft Sided Cooler is a versatile and portable option for outdoor enthusiasts. It can carry up to 20 cans or 12 pounds of ice, making it suitable for picnics, camping, and hiking. The closed-cell foam insulation, known as COLDCELL, ensures excellent cold retention, keeping your beverages and food items chilled for extended periods.

The MAGSHIELD ACCESS feature, which uses strong magnets, provides an ultra leak-resistant seal that is easy to open and close with just a gentle push. This cooler is also built to last, thanks to its DRYHIDE SHELL, a high-density fabric that resists punctures and UV damage. Additionally, the exterior Kangaroo Pocket adds convenience by allowing you to store small items like keys, a phone, or a wallet within easy reach.

On the downside, the cooler's weight of just over 3 kilograms may be a bit hefty for some users, especially when fully loaded. The capacity listing of 12 ounces in the specs seems to be a mistake, as the main description suggests a much larger capacity. Despite this minor confusion and the weight, the YETI Hopper M12 offers a robust and highly functional solution for those needing a reliable, portable cooler that can withstand tough outdoor conditions while keeping contents cold.

The Titan by Arctic Zone 48 Can Zipperless Soft Cooler is a solid choice for camping, picnics, or travel. It can hold up to 48 cans, providing a good size for group outings without being overly bulky. Its insulation features Deep Freeze Performance insulation with a radiant heat barrier, which keeps ice cold for up to three days—useful for extended trips or days spent outdoors.

One standout feature is its zipperless design with a flip-open lid, allowing quick and easy access to food and drinks without fumbling with a zipper. The included HardBody liner adds structure and durability, and it includes a SmartShelf to keep soft foods like sandwiches separate and fresh. The cooler is designed to be leak-proof inside and has Microban protection to reduce bacteria, enhancing cleanliness and hygiene. The exterior is made from rugged, water-resistant material that repels stains and wipes clean easily. It also includes an adjustable and padded shoulder strap for comfortable carrying, making it quite portable despite its capacity.

On the downside, at about 16.8 liters, it is not the largest cooler available, so it may not be ideal for carrying a lot of items or bulky food packages. While the water-resistant exterior and leak-proof lining protect against moisture, it remains a soft cooler and won’t be as tough as hard coolers against rough handling. The unique zipperless lid might also take some getting used to for those accustomed to traditional zipper coolers. This cooler effectively combines good insulation and practical features with ease of use and portability, making it especially attractive for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a durable, easy-access, and relatively compact cooler. It offers a smart mix of convenience and performance for everyday outdoor activities.