10 Best Yeti Coolers 2025 in the United States

The YETI Hopper M20 Backpack Soft Sided Cooler is designed with convenience and functionality in mind, ideal for activities such as picnics, fishing, camping, and hiking. With a capacity to carry up to 36 cans or 22 pounds of ice, it offers ample space for your beverages and food. The closed-cell foam insulation (COLDCELL) is a standout feature, providing excellent ice retention and keeping your items cold for extended periods.

The high-density fabric (DRYHIDE) ensures durability, making it resistant to punctures and UV rays, so it can withstand rough handling and exposure to the elements. The portability is notably enhanced by its backpack design, allowing you to keep your hands free. However, at 6 pounds when empty, it may feel a bit heavy, especially when fully loaded. The MAGSHIELD ACCESS with powerful magnets offers a secure and leak-resistant seal, which is convenient but may take some getting used to.

Additionally, the Hitchpoint Grid allows for attaching various accessories, adding to its versatility. While the cooler has many robust features, the price point is relatively high, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers. The Cosmic Lilac color is vibrant but might not appeal to everyone. Despite its few drawbacks, the YETI Hopper M20 is a solid choice for those looking for a reliable, durable, and portable cooler with good ice retention capabilities.

The YETI Tundra 45 is a robust hard cooler designed for outdoor enthusiasts who need serious ice retention and durability. It holds up to 45 quarts, fitting around 26 cans with ice, making it ideal for picnics, fishing trips, camping, or hiking. Its impressive ice retention is due to 3 inches of thick PermaFrost insulation and a FatWall design that keeps ice frozen longer, even in warm conditions.

Durability is a major advantage—the cooler features rotomolded construction, making it virtually indestructible and bear-resistant, capable of handling rough outdoor use without damage. The T-Rex Lid Latches, made from heavy-duty rubber with patented keeper technology, prevent latch breakage, a common issue with cheaper coolers. For organization, it includes a dry goods basket to keep items dry and separated.

In terms of portability, the Tundra 45 weighs 23 pounds empty, which is heavier than some other coolers. It comes with handles for carrying, but those prioritizing ultra-light gear for long hikes might find it bulky. The King Crab Orange color offers a bright, visible look useful in outdoor settings. If you need a cooler that excels at keeping ice frozen for days and withstands tough conditions, the YETI Tundra 45 is a strong choice, though lighter alternatives may be better for portability.

The YETI Hopper M12 Backpack Soft Sided Cooler is a versatile and convenient option for those who need to keep their beverages or food cold while on the go. It can carry up to 20 cans or 12 pounds of ice, offering ample capacity for most small to medium outings. The cold retention is impressive, thanks to the ColdCell insulation, which uses closed-cell foam to keep contents cold for extended periods.

Durability is another strong point, with the DryHide Shell made of high-density fabric that resists punctures and UV damage, ensuring the cooler can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Portability is enhanced by the backpack design, allowing hands-free carrying. This is particularly useful for activities like hiking or camping where you may need to carry other gear. The MagShield Access provides a leak-resistant closure that is easy to open and close, adding to the cooler's convenience.

An additional kangaroo pocket on the exterior offers extra storage for small items like a phone, keys, or a wallet, which is a practical touch. However, the cooler's dimensions (8 x 17 x 16 inches) and weight (approximately 6.75 pounds when empty) mean it might be bulkier compared to other soft-sided coolers, potentially making it less ideal for those looking for a more compact solution. The YETI Hopper M12 is best suited for outdoor enthusiasts and those who prioritize durability and performance in their cooler, despite the slightly higher cost and bulkier size.