A backpack cooler is like your regular backpack, but it’s designed to keep your food and drinks cold for a long time. It’s perfect for when you’re going to the beach, having a picnic, or going on a hike. You can enjoy a cold drink or a fresh snack anytime you want.
But it’s not just for fun outings. You can also use it for school or work. If you need to bring your lunch, a backpack cooler can keep it fresh until you’re ready to eat. It’s also great for road trips because you can bring your own food instead of eating fast food.
Backpack coolers are easy to carry, even when they’re full. They come in different sizes, so you can choose one that fits your needs. Whether you’re going on an adventure alone or with friends and family, a backpack cooler can make it more enjoyable
13 Best Backpack Coolers in 2023
Add Maelstrom Cooler Backpack, 50 Can Insulated Soft Backpack Cooler
Editor’s Choice
The Maelstrom Cooler Backpack, with its impressive 50-can capacity, is a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts, beachgoers, and anyone needing a reliable cooling solution.
- Product Type: Cooler Backpack
- Capacity: 50 cans / 36 Liters
- Insulation Type: Soft
- Leakproof: Yes
- Waterproof: Yes
- Color Options: Blue, Grey, Black-White, White
- Intended Use: Sports, outdoors, beach trips, picnics
- Carrying Comfort: Padded shoulder straps, adjustable chest and waist straps for support
- Additional Storage: Exterior pockets, bungee cords for smaller items
- Zippers: Sturdy and durable
- Dimensions: 21″ x 13.5″ x 8″ (L x W x H)
- Weight: 1210g
- Chamber Height: 8 Inches
The Maelstrom Cooler Backpack is designed with a generous capacity to easily store all the beverages, snacks, and food you need for a day out. It features excellent insulation technology that keeps its contents refreshingly cold for extended periods, even on scorching hot days.
The leakproof construction and waterproof material ensure that your items remain dry and safe, making it an ideal companion for various outdoor activities.
This backpack is about capacity, cooling, comfort, and convenience. Despite its large capacity, the Maelstrom Cooler Backpack remains comfortable to carry, even when fully loaded. The padded shoulder straps and adjustable chest and waist straps provide excellent support, allowing for a customized fit that reduces strain on your back and shoulders.
Additionally, the backpack is designed with attention to detail, featuring exterior pockets and bungee cords for additional storage options. The sturdy zippers glide smoothly and feel durable, instilling confidence that they will withstand frequent use.
Pros
- Generous 50-can capacity
- Excellent insulation keeps contents cold for extended periods
- Leakproof construction ensures no liquid seepage
- Lightweight and comfortable to carry
- Padded shoulder straps and adjustable chest and waist straps provide excellent support
- Exterior pockets and bungee cords for additional storage options
- Sturdy zippers for frequent use
- Versatile and durable design
Cons
- Shoulder and chest bands may not tighten enough for thin persons
- Not completely waterproof (top zippered closure)
Carhartt Insulated 24 Can Two Compartment Cooler Backpack
Simple, Yet Gorgeous!
The Carhartt Insulated 24 Can Two Compartment Cooler Backpack is a marvel of practical design. It comes in black and brown colors, catering to different style preferences.
- Style: Insulated 24 Can Two Compartment Cooler Backpack
- Cooler Base: Fully-Insulated
- Number of Compartments: Two
- Capacity: 24 cans or 680.39 grams
- Colors: Black, Brown
- Usage: Sports & Outdoors
- Insulated Lower Compartment: Yes
- Water Bottle Sleeve: Yes
- Water Bottle Sleeve Compatibility: Up to 32oz water bottle
- Main Compartment: Spacious
- Durability: High
- Suitable for: Diaper bag, work, outdoor activities, beach
- Weight: 1.45 Pounds
- Dimensions: 12.5 x 8 x 17.75 inches
The backpack is spacious, with a large main compartment for storing essentials and a fully insulated base compartment designed to hold and keep your beverages and food items cool.
The backpack also has multiple additional pockets to organize your items better. The cooler’s dimensions are 12.5 x 17.75 x 8 inches, providing ample space without being overly bulky.
The cooler’s durability is a testament to Carhartt’s commitment to quality. Made with heavy-duty material, this backpack can withstand the rigors of daily use, whether for work, travel, or outdoor activities.
Pros
- Durable and functional
- Insulated compartment keeps items cold
- Lightweight and not excessively big
- Holds a significant amount of items
- Versatile for various uses (diaper bag, gym)
- Keeps drinks cold in warm weather
- Stylish design
- Good for everyday use
- Good size for work
- Convenient for beach outings
- Suitable for heavy machinery work
Cons
- Water bottle sleeve is too small for larger bottles
- Lunch box compartment can be difficult to access when full
- Ice pack melts within a few hours
- Bag compartment is relatively small
- Some reports of faulty stitching
- Water bottle pouches on the sides may not hold larger bottles
Under Armour Sideline Cooler, 12/24/25 Can Insulated Cooler, Lunch Bag, Ice Chest
The Under Armour Sideline Cooler can cater to varying needs with its sizes, namely 12, 24, and 25-can capacities. This flexibility allows customers to choose the size that best suits their needs, whether for a small picnic or a large outdoor gathering.
- Color: Pitch Grey
- Size: OSFA (One Size Fits All)
- Product Type: Backpack Cooler
- Material: Semi-hard plastic liner
- Closure: Magnetic, Quick Access Flip Top
- Available Colors: Pitch Grey, Black, White, Royal Blue+black, White Woodland
- Capacities:
- 25 cans – 17.5″H x 13″W x 8.5″D
- 24 cans – 12″W x 9″L x 10″D
- 12 cans – 11.5″H x 13.5″W x 8″D
- Weights:
- 25 cans – 157 Pounds
- 24 cans – 150.8 Pounds
- 12 cans – 150.8 Pounds
The Under Armour Sideline Cooler is not just about size flexibility. It’s packed with features that make it a reliable companion for any outdoor activity. The cooler is insulated, ensuring your drinks and food stay cold for an extended period.
It’s also designed with a semi-hard, leak-resistant plastic liner, adding to its durability and ease of cleaning. The cooler comes in different colors, including Pitch Grey, Black, and White, allowing customers to choose based on their style or match their other outdoor gear.
One of the unique features of this cooler is the Magnetic Quick Access Flip Top, which provides easy access to your drinks without the need to unzip the entire cooler. This feature is convenient and helps maintain the cooler’s internal temperature, keeping your items cold for longer.
Pros
- Well constructed
- Leak-proof plastic liner
- Magnetic quick access flip top
- Spacious pockets
- Can keep drinks “ice cold” even in hot temperatures
- Compatible with R’TIC ice packs
- Keeps essentials within immediate reach
- Durable and easy to clean
- Good size
- Access lid for easy retrieval of items
Cons
- Ice packs thaw by the end of the workday
- May not prevent items from tumbling out
- Doesn’t come with a shoulder strap
ZAKEEP Cooler Backpack, 36 Cans Multifunctional Leakproof Cooler Backpack
The ZAKEEP Cooler Backpack is designed with a multitude of features to cater to a variety of needs. It can hold up to 36 cans, making it perfect for group outings.
- Color: Black, White, Mint Green
- Material: Polyethylene Vinyl Acetate (PEVA)
- Package Information: Bag
- Capacity: 5 Pounds
- Item Dimensions: 13.7 x 7.1 x 19.3 inches
- Item Weight: 1.7 Pounds
- Special Feature: Leak Proof
- Included Components: Cooler backpack
- Max Capacity: 36 cans
- Water-proof: Designed with rip-stop 600D Oxford fabric for durability and water resistance (Please note that the zipper is not waterproof)
- Product Dimensions: 7.1″D x 13.7″W x 19.3″H
- Warranty Description: 2 year
- Size: 36 Cans
The backpack is available in several colors, including black, white, and mint green, allowing users to choose according to their preferences. It also features a padded top handle and mesh pocket for added convenience.
The backpack is not only functional but also durable. It is made of high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The thick and effective insulation ensures that drinks stay cold even under harsh conditions.
The backpack also features an improved carrying handle and thick padded straps for comfortable carrying. Given its robust construction and quality materials, this cooler can be expected to serve its purpose for a long time.
Pros
- Great storage compartments
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Fits a 12 pack and a 2-liter bottle easily
- Keeps items cold for the day
- Comfortable to carry
- Multiple storage compartments
- Durable and handles weight easily
Cons
- Struggles to stand when not loaded properly
Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze 30 Can Insulated Backpack Cooler Bag with Ice Wall Packs
Best for Hiking
The Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze Cooler Bag is not just a cooler; it’s a portable refrigerator. It comes with a set of Ice Walls that you can freeze and insert into the specially designed pockets of the bag, providing surround cooling that keeps your items chilled for hours.
- Color: Blue Lagoon, Pine, and Citrus
- Capacity: 30 cans
- Insulation: Thick insulation of approximately 1 inch
- Zipper: Main storage area zipper may have issues closing
- Ice Packs: Includes ice wall packs for enhanced cooling
- Water Resistance: Passed water test, but may leak if turned upside down
- Carrying Style: Backpack configuration
- Additional Features: Multiple pockets for storage, includes bottle opener
The cooler bag is available in a variety of vibrant colors like Blue Lagoon, Pine, and Citrus, making it not only functional but also stylish. It has a 30-can capacity, making it perfect for family outings or group events.
The bag is designed with an Ultra Safe leak-proof lining with Microban to protect against bacterial odors and stains. The exterior is made of Rhino-Tech water and stain-resistant material, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
Pros
- Keeps drinks and food cold for an extended period
- Includes ice packs for extra cooling
- Spacious with multiple pockets for storage
- Thick insulation provides excellent temperature retention
- Backpack configuration allows for hands-free carrying
- Durable construction and high-quality materials
- Stylish design with a variety of color options
Cons
- Some users reported leaking issues
- The bag may be heavy and too big for day trips
- Zipper durability issues reported by a few users
- The bag may leak if turned upside down
Igloo Lightweight Maxcold Insulated Gizmo 30-Can Backpack Cooler
The Igloo Lightweight Maxcold Insulated Gizmo 30-Can Backpack Cooler is packed with features that make it a must-have for any outdoor adventure.
- Color: Realtree Camo, Grey, Aquamarine
- Material: Flat-knit
- Item Dimensions: 12 x 10.25 x 17 inches
- Item Weight: 12 Ounces
- Special Features: Insulated, Lightweight
- Capacity: 54-quart capacity
Available in a variety of colors, this backpack cooler is designed to cater to a wide range of personal preferences. The cooler is spacious enough to hold up to 30 cans, making it perfect for group outings. Its Maxcold insulation feature ensures that your beverages stay cold for a longer duration.
The backpack design makes it easy to carry, and the adjustable, padded air mesh straps provide comfort during transport. The cooler also has multiple pockets for additional storage, making it a versatile choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
Pros
- Durable and high-quality construction
- Spacious main compartment with multiple pockets for organized storage
- Insulated cooler compartment at the bottom to keep drinks and snacks cool
- Padded shoulder straps and back panel for comfortable carrying
- Realtree camouflage design adds a stylish and outdoor-inspired look
- Side mesh pockets for additional storage options
- Adjustable sternum strap for added stability and support during transportation.
- Great for outdoor activities, picnics, hiking, camping, and other adventures
- Suitable for both adults and kids
- Versatile backpack that can be used for various purposes, including school or work
Cons
- May be too large for individual use
- Care needed to maintain zipper functionality
Columbia PFG Thermal Pack Backpack Cooler
The Columbia PFG Thermal Pack Cooler is not your average cooler. It features a Zipperless Hardbody design that ensures easy access and durability. The ThermaCool High-Performance Insulation keeps your food and beverages cold for longer periods, making it perfect for outdoor activities like camping, fishing, or beach trips.
- Product Dimensions: 19.7 x 13 x 7.5 inches
- Weight: Approximately 2.6 pounds
- Material: Polyester
- Insulation: Insulated lining
- Capacity: Can hold up to 28 cans (12-ounce size)
- Cooling Mechanism: Requires manual cooling
- Carrying Style: Backpack
- Storage Features: Spacious main compartment, front pocket
- Adjustable Straps: Yes
- Color Options: White Cap
- Ideal Use: Outdoor activities, picnics, camping
The cooler also includes a SmartShelf feature that allows you to separate hard stuff like cans from soft stuff like sandwiches, preventing your food from being squashed. It comes in a sleek silver color, adding a touch of style to your outdoor gear.
The cooler’s size and capacity are also worth noting. It measures 12.25″ x 10″ x 16.5″, providing ample space for your food and drinks.
The cooler can hold up to 22 liters or 30 cans, making it an excellent choice for family outings or group activities. Despite its large capacity, the cooler is lightweight and easy to carry, thanks to its adjustable shoulder strap.
Pros
- Insulated design keeps contents cool.
- Spacious backpack with ample storage.
- Durable construction for long-lasting use.
- Adjustable straps for comfortable carrying.
- Versatile design for outdoor activities.
- Convenient front pocket for easy access to essentials.
- Sturdy zippers for secure closure.
Cons
- May not fit larger bottles or containers.
- May be bulky and heavy when fully loaded.
- Limited color options.
- No separate compartments for organization.
Plano Z-Series Tackle Bags
The Plano Z-Series Tackle Bags come in a variety of styles, including the 3700 Tackle Bag, the Waterproof Duffle Bag, and the Roll-Top Waterproof Duffel with Backpack Straps.
- Material: Waterproof fabric and durable construction.
- Color Options: Gray (Limited).
- Capacity: Spacious interior with multiple compartments.
- Laptop Compartment: No.
- Shoulder Straps: Adjustable and comfortable.
- Back Panel: Padded for enhanced comfort.
- Waterproof: Yes.
- Dimensions: 23”L x 11.5”W x 7”H.
- Weight: 20 liter interior capacity.
Each style is available in a distinctive gray color with yellow accents, offering a modern and stylish look. The bags are made from 500D PVC fabric, a material known for its durability and water resistance.
The 500D PVC fabric is resistant to wear and tear, and the absence of zippers eliminates a common failure point in many tackle bags. The Plano Z-Series Tackle Bags are designed to withstand the rigors of fishing, whether you’re out at sea or by the lakeside.
Pros
- Durable and waterproof material.
- Spacious interior with multiple compartments.
- Adjustable and comfortable shoulder straps.
- Reflective accents for enhanced visibility.
- Versatile for various outdoor activities.
Cons
- Limited color options available.
- The roll-top closure can sometimes be difficult to secure.
- Lack of dedicated laptop compartment.
Igloo 30-Can Switch Backpack Seadrift White/Gray
Editor’s Choice / Most Popular / #1 Choice / #2 Second Choice / Most Value Value For Money
The Igloo Switch Backpack is designed with the capacity to hold up to 30 cans, making it perfect for a day out with family or friends. It’s available in a stylish Seadrift White/Gray color that adds a touch of elegance to your outdoor gear. The backpack is made of durable 600-denier polyester with a TPE coating, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
- Material: Polyester
- Color: Grey
- Dimensions: 17 x 13 x 6.75 inches
- Weight: 1.7 pounds
- Capacity: 18 cans
- Insulation: MaxCold insulation
- Adjustable Straps: Yes
- Padded Back Panel: Yes
- Front Zippered Pocket: Yes
- Side Mesh Pockets: Yes
- Top Handle: Yes
- Leak-Resistant: Yes
- Easy-to-Clean Liner: Yes
It features MaxCold insulation, which keeps your food and drinks cooler for longer. The backpack also includes a deep, gusseted front pocket for additional storage, non-corrosive durable hardware, and a padded fabric-wrapped top grab handle.
The Switch Backpack offers two ways to carry it. You can use the hideaway padded backpack straps for hands-free carrying or stow away the straps in the zippered back pocket and carry it as a tote. The backpack is also equipped with a leak-resistant, easy-to-clean, antimicrobial liner. This means you can wipe out any spills and be ready for the next day.
Pros
- Spacious interior with 18-can capacity
- Insulated design keeps items cold
- Adjustable straps for comfortable carrying
- Padded back panel for added comfort
- Front zippered pocket for easy access
- Side mesh pockets for additional storage
- Top handle for convenient carrying
- Leak-resistant construction
- Easy-to-clean liner
Cons
- Lack of color options
Arctic Zone Titan Guide Series Backpack Cooler
The Titan Guide Series Cooler is designed to keep your food and drinks cold for up to three days, making it an ideal companion for camping, boating, picnics, or just a day out on the dock. It’s not just about the cooling, though. The cooler is also built to be durable, water, and stain-resistant, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
- list_of_features_or_specification
- Brand: Arctic Zone
- Product Name: Titan Backpack Cooler
- Material: Polyester
- Color: Black
- Insulation: Deep Freeze high-performance insulation
- Leak-Proof: Yes
- Cooler Type: Backpack cooler
- Cooling Technology: Therma-Flect radiant barrier
- Additional Features: Adjustable, padded straps; Exterior mesh pockets; Bottle opener included
- Usage: Ideal for camping, hiking, picnics, and other outdoor activities
- 16-can Option:
- Dimensions: 13 x 10 x 12.75 inches
- Weight: Not specified
- Chamber Depth: 9.75 inches
- 30-can Option:
- Dimensions: 12.75 x 12 x 22 inches
- Weight: Not specified
- Chamber Depth: 12.75 inches
- 36-can Option:
- Dimensions: 17.5 x 13.25 x 14.5 inches
- Weight: Not specified
- Chamber Depth: 17.5 inches
The cooler’s roomy interior features Deep Freeze high-performance insulation with a radiant heat barrier and a triple-layer Cold Block base. The interior lining is leak-proof, easy to clean, and treated with Microban for antimicrobial protection.
The exterior of the cooler is just as impressive. It includes a smooth TableTop surface with four drink holders, multiple exterior accessory pockets, a compression-molded base, a padded back panel, and a detachable shoulder strap with an anti-slip shoulder pad. There are also daisy chain attachment loops and side D-ring tie-down latch points for extra stability on flatbed trucks or boats.
Pros
- Spacious capacity for storing up to 30 cans
- Insulated with Deep Freeze technology
- Leak-proof design
- Multiple pockets and compartments for storage
- Adjustable and padded straps for comfortable use
- Exterior mesh pockets for additional storage
- Includes a bottle opener
Cons
- No information on warranty coverage
- Limited color options
- Limited information on material durability
dbest products Ultra Compact Cooler Smart Cart Backpack
The Ultra Compact Cooler Smart Cart Backpack a fusion of a cooler, a smart cart, and a backpack. This unique combination is a testament to the brand’s creativity and understanding of customers’ needs for convenience and functionality.
The Ultra Compact Cooler Smart Cart Backpack is designed with many features that make it a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts, travelers, or anyone needing a portable cooling solution.
- Insulation: Yes
- Leakproof: Yes
- Material: Polyester
- Color Options: Moroccan Tile, Black, and Red
- Dimensions: 12 x 9 x 14 inches
- Weight: 4 Gallons
It comes in a variety of vibrant colors, including Moroccan Tile, Black, and Red, allowing users to choose according to their personal style. The cooler is available in different sizes – Standard, Swivel, and Extended, catering to varying capacity needs.
The cooler is insulated, ensuring that your beverages and food items stay cold for extended periods. It’s also collapsible, making it easy to store when not in use.
The smart cart feature includes a set of smooth-rolling wheels for easy transportation, and the backpack design allows for hands-free carrying. This cooler is not just about keeping your items cool; it’s about doing it in the most convenient way possible.
Pros
- Insulated to keep items cool or warm
- Leakproof design to prevent spills
- Convenient backpack style for easy carrying
- Suitable for various purposes and activities
- Durable construction for long-lasting use
- Versatile and multi-functional design
Cons
- Some users may find it a bit bulky for a backpack
- The need to dry the inside after use to prevent water collection
Igloo Top Grip Repreve Eco-Friendly Maxcold Backpack Cooler
The Igloo Top Grip Repreve Eco-Friendly Maxcold Backpack Cooler is made from Repreve recycled polyester, which is derived from plastic bottles, making it a great choice for environmentally conscious consumers.
- Material: Polyester
- Color: Black
- Eco-Friendly: Yes
- Construction: Durable
- Storage Capacity: 0.5 Gallons / 24 cans
- Carrying Method: Top grip handle and backpack straps
This backpack cooler is not just about being eco-friendly; it also boasts a range of features designed for convenience and durability. It has a capacity of 0.5 gallons and can hold up to 24 cans, making it perfect for picnics, hikes, or any outdoor adventure.
The exterior features a deep gusseted front zipper pocket for additional storage and side mesh pockets for easy access to essentials. The adjustable, padded air mesh backpack straps with a sternum strap ensure comfortable, hands-free carrying. The PU coated bottom panels are designed to ensure lasting use.
Pros
- Eco-friendly design
- Convenient backpack style for carrying
- Keeps contents cold for extended periods
- Durable construction
- Ideal for outdoor activities
- Easy to carry and transport
Cons
- No additional compartments for organization
- May not fit larger items
- Limited storage capacity
- Straps may be uncomfortable for some users
Igloo South Coast Black Snapdown 24-Can Backpack
The South Coast Black Snapdown 24-Can Backpack has a spacious main compartment that can perfectly hold a 24-pack case of beer or any other canned beverage without the need for unboxing the cans.
- Capacity: 24 cans
- Design: Snapdown
- Material: Durable construction
- Shoulder Straps: Adjustable and padded
- Pockets: Multiple pockets for organization
- Closure Type: Zipper
- Dimensions: 13 x 7 x 15.75 inches
- Weight: 1.84 Pounds
- Color Options: Midnight
- Usage: Ideal for carrying beverages or food on the go
The backpack is designed with a wipeable EPPE liner that is easy to clean and leak-resistant, ensuring that liquids won’t wet the rest of the bag. It features MaxCold+ insulation, a 15mm HDPE foam that keeps food and drinks colder for extended periods of time, making it an ideal companion for long trips.
The backpack is available in a sleek midnight color, and its polyester material ensures durability. It measures 13 x 7 x 15.75 inches and weighs 1.84 pounds, making it compact and lightweight for easy carrying.
The backpack offers multiple carry options, including top grab handles that secure together with a closure wrap and adjustable, padded backpack air mesh straps for comfortable, hands-free carrying. A special feature of this backpack is the bottle opener built into the strap, allowing you to easily open a bottled beverage without worrying about misplacing a separate tool.
Pros
- Spacious backpack with a 24-can capacity
- Durable construction for long-lasting use
- Convenient snapdown design
- Adjustable padded shoulder straps
- Multiple pockets for organization
Cons
- Only available in one color
- No separate compartments for non-food items
Conclusion
A backpack cooler is a really handy thing to have. It’s perfect for when you’re going on an adventure, like hiking or going to the beach. It keeps your food and drinks cold for a long time, so you can always have a cool drink or a fresh snack when you want one.
Backpack coolers come in different sizes, so you can pick one that fits what you need. If you’re going on a trip by yourself, you can get a small one. You can get a bigger group if you’re going with a group.
But a backpack cooler isn’t just about keeping things cold. It’s also easy to carry around, even when full. That means you can take it on a hike or a long walk, and it won’t be too hard to carry. Plus, it has different compartments so you can keep your stuff organized.
In short, a backpack cooler is a really cool thing to have. It’s not just useful, but it also makes your trips more fun. So, if you’re planning a trip or if you want a better way to bring your lunch, think about getting a backpack cooler. It’s a great thing to have for any adventure.
