Soft bag coolers are lightweight and portable, making them easy to carry around. They come in various sizes, allowing you to choose the best suits your needs. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, a soft bag cooler is just right for you.
One of the key advantages of soft bag coolers is their superior insulation. They are designed to keep your food and beverages cold for hours, even in hot weather. This is particularly useful for outdoor activities, where access to refrigeration is limited. You can enjoy a cold drink or a fresh sandwich with a soft bag cooler anytime, anywhere.
12 Best Soft Bag Coolers in 2023
ENGEL HD30 Waterproof Soft-Sided Cooler Tote Bag
Editor’s Choice
The ENGEL HD30 is a soft-sided cooler tote bag equipped with high-quality vacuum valve technology that provides superior insulation, keeping your beverages and food items cold for an extended period.
- Brand: ENGEL
- Color: 2023 Light Gray /Red
- Material: Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)
- Package Information: Bag, Bottle
- Capacity: 12 Ounces
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 20.5 x 9.5 x 17 inches
- Special Feature: Portable
- Included Components: Side grab handles for convenience, Water-resistant front pocket, Emergency bottle opener, Vacuum valve to improve performance, Adjustable ergonomic shoulder strap
- Model Name: HD30-LG RED
- Insulation Material: TPU
- Chamber Depth: 22 Inches
- Chamber Height: 12 Inches
- Duration: 4 days
- Sport Type: Boating
This cooler stands out in the crowded outdoor gear market with its unique features and unmatched performance. The ENGEL HD30 is not just a cooler; it’s a testament to ENGEL’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
The cooler bag is available in two color variants, Grey and Light Grey/Red, allowing customers to choose based on their personal preferences. Its capacity is 32 quarts, making it spacious enough to carry a substantial amount of food and drinks.
The ENGEL HD30 is not just about capacity and cooling; it’s also about convenience and durability. The bag features a waterproof and leak-proof design, ensuring that it can withstand harsh outdoor conditions. It is also equipped with a shoulder strap and side handles for easy transport, making it an ideal companion for camping, fishing, or any outdoor activities.
Pros
- Durable material (Thermoplastic Polyurethane)
- Holds ice up to 3-4 days
- Features like adjustable ergonomic shoulder strap, bottle opener, water-resistant front pocket
- Portable and easy to carry with multiple handle options
- Good capacity (Can hold as 48 x 12oz cans and ice)
- Patent-pending vacuum valve technology improves performance
Cons
- The opening can be a bit cumbersome for bulky objects
- Shoulder strap pad is sewn into the center of the strap, which can be time-consuming to adjust
- Some users reported issues with the side loops’ stitching
- Might be heavy when fully loaded
Hydro Flask 20L Carry Out Soft Cooler
Most Popular
The Hydro Flask 20L Carry Out Soft Cooler comes in vibrant colors, including Blackberry and Baltic, allowing users to choose one that best suits their style.
- Brand: Hydro Flask
- Color: Cactus
- Material: Polyester
- Package Information: Bag
- Capacity: 20 Liters
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 17.2 x 15.4 x 12.6 inches
- Item Weight: 4.84 Pounds
- Special Feature: Insulated
The cooler is spacious, with a 20L capacity to comfortably accommodate a small group’s food and drinks. It features a durable design that can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. The cooler also has a robust zipper for easy access and a secure closure.
Based on the cooler’s design and the brand’s reputation for quality, it is reasonable to expect that the Hydro Flask 20L Carry Out Soft Cooler can serve its intended purpose for several years if not more. The cooler’s insulation technology and robust construction ensure that it can withstand frequent use in various environments.
Pros
- Lightweight insulation keeps contents chilled for up to 24 hours
- Large, accessible opening for loading, unloading, and cleaning
- Food grade BPA-free liner with welded seams keep spills and splashes contained
- Webbing loops easily attach Dry Storage accessories
- Exterior stash pocket
Cons
- Shoulder strap not removable
- Might be too large for everyday lunch box use
Igloo 36-Can Softsided Insulated Collapse and Cool Cooler
Most Value Value For Money
The Igloo 36-Can Softsided Insulated Collapse and Cool Cooler is packed with features that make it a versatile choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Available in a variety of colors, including Midnight, Gray, and Dark Blue, it caters to different aesthetic preferences.
- Material: 600-denier polyester with a TPE coating
- Insulation: MaxCold insulation – an additional 25% added
- Storage: Deep, gusseted front pocket
- Hardware: Non-corrosive, durable
- Lid: Features a top hatch for easy access
- Capacity: 36 Liters
The cooler is designed to hold up to 36 cans, making it perfect for group outings. It also features a top zipper design for easy access and a side pocket for additional storage. The cooler’s dimensions, when expanded, are 16.5 x 10.5 x 12 inches, and it collapses to a height of just 3 inches for easy storage.
The durability of this cooler is commendable. With proper care and usage, it can serve its purpose for several years. Its robust construction and high-quality zippers ensure longevity, while the insulated interior maintains the temperature of your beverages for hours.
Pros
- Durable material and hardware
- MaxCold insulation keeps food and drinks cooler for longer
- Additional storage with a deep, gusseted front pocket
- Easy access with a top hatch on the lid
Cons
- The white color may get dirty easily
- May be too large for some users
Coleman Chiller Series Insulated Portable Soft Cooler
The Coleman Chiller Series Soft Cooler is a marvel of design and functionality. Available in a vibrant range of colors, it caters to a variety of aesthetic preferences.
- Brand: Coleman
- Color: Black
- Material: Recycled Fabric
- Package Information: Bag
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 12.37 x 10.13 x 13 inches
- Item Weight: 2.5 Pounds
- Special Feature: Portable
- Included Components: Cooler
- Capacity: Holds up to 30 cans
The cooler comes in a size that is perfect for a day out, with a capacity to hold up to 9 cans. It’s not just about size and capacity, though. The cooler is equipped with heat-welded seams to prevent leaks, ensuring your beverages stay cold and your surroundings stay dry.
The soft, flexible shell makes it easy to pack and carry, while the hard plastic liner provides structure and durability. Moreover, the adjustable shoulder strap allows for comfortable carrying, and the front zippered pocket, side mesh pockets, and lid bungees offer additional storage.
Pros
- Superior ice retention
- Leakproof design
- Made from recycled fabric
- Easy to clean with removable liner
- Portable with adjustable sling strap
- Large capacity (holds up to 30 cans)
Cons
- Issues with the zipper getting caught
- The size might be too bulky for some users
- The side pockets could be taller for better storage
- Limited color options
Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze 30 Can Insulated Tote
The Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze 30 Can Insulated Tote is packed with features that make it a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast. Available in a variety of colors such as Blue Lagoon, Moss, and Pine, this tote is designed to cater to different style preferences.
- Brand: Arctic Zone
- Color: Moss
- Material: 200x300D/112T Poly Ripstop w/ 0.15mm MATTE TPE exterior coating
- Package Information: Bag
- Capacity: 20 Quarts
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 22 x 10 x 14.5 inches
- Special Feature: Portable
- Included Components: Tote
- Chamber Depth: 16.75 Inches
- Chamber Height: 13.25 Inches
- Chamber Width: 7.75 Inches
It has a capacity to hold up to 30 cans, making it perfect for family outings or group trips. The tote is equipped with Deep Freeze high-performance insulation with radiant heat barrier and a triple layer ColdBlock™ base to keep your items cold for longer.
The exterior is made from a durable, water and stain-resistant Rhino-Tech® material that is easy to clean. The tote also features an adjustable Backsaver shoulder strap with shoulder pad that centers load weight to reduce muscle stress.
Pros
- Deep Freeze high performance insulation with radiant heat barrier
- Therma-Flect radiant barrier interior reflects heat rather than absorbing it
- Ultra Safe leak proof lining with Microban protects against bacterial odors and stains
- Triple layer ColdBlock base has 3 thick layers of SuperFoam
- Water and stain repellent, wipe clean exterior
- Portable and easy to clean
Cons
- Zipper is not leak proof
- Size might be too big for personal use
- Zipper quality issues reported by some users
- Not great for food due to lack of flat bottom
- Ice retention might not last as long as advertised
Igloo Premium Soft-Sided Insulated Cooler Tote Bag
The Igloo Premium Soft Sided Insulated Cooler Tote Bag ensures that your food and drinks stay cold for hours, making it an ideal companion for picnics, beach outings, and camping trips.
- Brand: Igloo
- Color: Chive Green
- Material: Flat-knit
- Package Information: Bag
- Capacity: 12 Ounces
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 22.4 x 3.7 x 15.7 inches
- Item Weight: 1.98 Pounds
- Special Feature: Portable-tote
- Recommended Uses For Product: Lunch
- Model Name: Pursuit
- Chamber Depth: 22.4 Inches
This cooler tote bag is available in a stylish Chive Green color, adding a touch of elegance to your outdoor gear. It has a capacity to hold up to 30 cans, making it perfect for group outings.
The cooler dimensions are 18.5 x 9.06 x 13.78 inches, providing ample space without being too bulky to carry. The bag also features a padded strap for comfortable carrying, even when it’s fully loaded.
Pros
- Durable and water-repellent exterior material
- Advanced insulation keeps food & drinks cold
- Double zipper wide opening for easy access
- Removable key clip for convenience
- Exterior front zip pocket for additional storage
Cons
- The capacity might be small for some users
- Material type is not specifically mentioned
- The weight might be heavy when fully packed
Polar Bear Coolers 12 Pack Original Nylon Soft Cooler
The Polar Bear Cooler is packed with features that make it a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast. It comes in a variety of vibrant colors, allowing you to choose one that best suits your style. The cooler is compact yet spacious, with a capacity to hold 12 cans or bottles.
- Brand: Polar Bear Coolers
- Color: Red
- Material: Nylon
- Package Information: Bag
- Item Weight: 2 Pounds
- Special Feature: Rust Resistant
- Included Components: Shoulder strap
- Model Name: Polar Bear Coolers 12 Pack Original Soft Cooler Red
- Insulation Material: Nylon, TPU
- Chamber Width: 7 Inches
- Insulation: 1″ thick 10 Gauge HIGH-DENSITY foam insulation
- Interior Liner: Food-Grade TPU DOUBLE COATED NYLON
- Outer Shell: Rugged 840 D LUGGAGE GRADE Nylon Outer Shell
- Zipper: Super Heavy-Duty YKK no.10 weatherized zipper (RUST PROOF)
- Side Zipper Pocket: Can be embroidered with your company logo or monogrammed for personalization
It is crafted from a heavy-duty nylon exterior and a double-coated nylon for the interior, ensuring durability and long-lasting performance. The cooler is also equipped with a high-quality zipper for easy access and secure closure.
One of the most impressive aspects of this cooler is its insulation. The insulation is thick and capable of keeping the contents cold for a long time. The cooler’s design also includes a shoulder strap for easy carrying, making it perfect for any outdoor activity, whether it’s a picnic, camping, or a day at the beach.
Pros
- High-density foam insulation keeps ice for 24 hours in 100+ degree heat.
- Durable and long-lasting interior liner made of food-grade TPU double coated nylon.
- Rugged 840 D luggage grade nylon outer shell provides durability.
- Rust-proof super heavy-duty YKK no.10 weatherized zipper prevents zipper from ripping out of the cooler.
- Side zipper pocket can be personalized with a company logo or monogram.
- Suitable for various outdoor activities like boating, camping, and hiking.
Cons
- The size might not be sufficient for large families or groups.
- The stiffness of the cooler might make packing a bit challenging.
- The side zipper pocket might be too small for some users.
- The cooler might be a bit heavy when fully packed.
AO Coolers Original Soft Cooler with High-Density Insulation
The AO Coolers Original Soft Cooler comes packed with features that make it a must-have for any outdoor trip. It is available in various sizes, including 12-can, 24-can, and 36-can options, catering to different user needs.
- Brand: AO Coolers
- Color Variants: Red, royal blue, black, and charcoal
- Material: Other
- Sizes: Available in 12-can, 24-can, and 36-can sizes
- Capacity: 11 Liters
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 14 x 7 x 12 inches
- Item Weight: 2 Pounds
- Special Feature: Portable
The cooler comes in a variety of vibrant colors like red, royal blue, black, and charcoal, adding a touch of personal style to your outdoor gear. Its high-density insulation is designed to keep ice intact for up to 24 hours in 120-degree heat.
The cooler is also leak-proof, ensuring no unwanted spills during your journey. Moreover, it is equipped with a durable canvas exterior, making it resistant to tears and scratches.
Pros
- High-density insulation, twice that of other soft-sided coolers.
- Leak-proof liner.
- Versatility in use: suitable for boating, fishing, hunting, parties, sporting events, and picnics.
- Features a side pocket for dry items.
- Portable with a removable shoulder strap.
Cons
- Some users might find it bulky for its capacity.
- Material type is not specifically mentioned.
CleverMade Maverick Collapsible Cooler Bag
The Maverick Collapsible Cooler Bag is a marvel of design and functionality. It caters to different style preferences and is available in two vibrant colors, Navy and Grey/Charcoal.
- Brand: CleverMade
- Color: Navy and Grey/Charcoal
- Material: Polyester
- Package Information: Bag, Bottle
- Capacity: 55 Pounds
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 18.25 x 12 x 13 inches
- Item Weight: 3.24 Pounds
- Special Feature: Insulated, Leakproof, Collapsible, Shoulder Strap, Bottle Opener, Storage Pockets
- Included Components: Daisy Chains, Removable Shoulder Strap, Bottle Opener
- Capacity: 50 cans
The cooler bag is designed to hold up to 50 cans, making it an excellent choice for outings, picnics, or beach trips.
It features an insulated leakproof design to keep your beverages cold for hours. The bag also includes a shoulder strap for easy carrying, a bottle opener for convenience, and additional storage pockets for added functionality.
Pros
- Keeps drinks and food cold all day
- Patented snap hinge provides structure when open
- Durable side handles and an adjustable shoulder strap for easy carrying
- Can be loaded with bags of ice from the grocery store
- Features include: 5 layers of leak-proof insulation, water-resistant zippers and body, top interior dry storage compartment, daisy chain to clip keys, fleece-lined pocket for sunglasses or cell phone
- Collapsible for easy storage
- Integrated bottle opener on the handle
- Multiple storage pockets for essentials
- Suitable for a variety of uses (beach, picnic, work, fishing, camping, hiking)
Cons
- Some users reported issues with the cooler leaking
- The bottom of the cooler may get soaked due to sweating
- Some users found it too big for certain uses (like fitting in a golf cart)
- Some users reported issues with the zipper
- Some users reported durability issues
AO Coolers Traveler Soft Cooler with High-Density Insulation
The AO Coolers Traveler Soft Cooler is packed with features that make it a top choice among consumers. It comes in two different sizes, 12-can and 24-can, catering to different user needs.
- Brand: AO Coolers
- Color: Charcoal
- Material: Canvas
- Package Information: Cans
- Sizes: 12-can and 24-can
- Special Feature: Shoulder
- Included Components: Soft Cooler with High-Density Insulation
The cooler is available in a variety of colors, including navy blue, charcoal, and black, allowing users to choose based on their personal style and preference. The cooler’s high-density insulation is designed to keep your drinks cold for a long time.
It also has two pockets, providing extra storage for essentials like cellphones, wallets, keys, and even snacks. The cooler is made of a solid canvas shell, making it resistant to tearing even when placed on rough terrain.
Pros
- Soft-sided cooler with high-density insulation
- Removable shoulder strap for easy carrying
- Two extended side pockets for dry items
- Leak-proof liner
- Holds ice for 24 hours in 120-degree weather
- Twice the insulation of other soft-sided coolers
- Available in different sizes and colors
Cons
- Sometimes cooler doesn’t keep ice as long as some other brands
- The shoulder strap may not be long enough for some users
- The size of the side pockets may not be sufficient for larger items
CleverMade Pacifica Pro Cooler Bag
The Pacifica Pro Cooler Bag is a versatile cooler, available in two sizes – 18 Can and 6 Can, and two color options – Midnight/Charcoal and Ocean/Cognac. The bag is designed with an insulated interior to maintain the temperature of your items, whether hot or cold.
Not only does it cater to the environmentally conscious consumer, but it also offers a stylish and practical solution for keeping your food and beverages cool.
- Brand: CleverMade
- Cooler: Pacifica Pro Cooler Bag
- Material: Recycled Materials
- Sizes Available: 18 Can, 6 Can
- Colors Available: Midnight/Charcoal, Ocean/Cognac
- Special Features: Insulated, Leakproof, Bottle Opener, Shoulder Strap
The Pacifica Pro Cooler Bag is a versatile cooler, available in two sizes – 18 Can and 6 Can, and two color options – Midnight/Charcoal and Ocean/Cognac. The bag is designed with an insulated interior to maintain the temperature of your items, whether hot or cold.
It features a leakproof lining, ensuring no unwanted spills or messes. The bag also includes a bottle opener and a shoulder strap for convenience. The exterior is made from durable material, making it perfect for outdoor activities like picnics, beach outings, or day trips.
Pros
- Environmentally friendly, made from recycled materials
- Versatile with two sizes and two color options
- Insulated and leakproof for efficient cooling
- Includes a bottle opener and shoulder strap for convenience
Cons
- Some users may prefer a hard-sided cooler for more rigidity
- Size may not be sufficient for large gatherings
- The color may not appeal to all users
Foundry by Fit + Fresh: Brooks Dual-Compartment Insulated Cooler Bag
The Foundry Brooks Dual-Compartment Insulated Cooler Bag is packed with features designed to enhance your outdoor experiences. Available in a variety of colors, including Navy Newport Stripe, Gray Newport Stripe, and Yellow, it caters to different style preferences.
- Brand: Fit & Fresh
- Color: Blue, Navy Newport Stripe, Gray Newport Stripe, and Yellow
- Material: Polyester
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 17 x 8 x 12 inches
- Special Feature: Casual, Unisex-Adult
- Included Components: Cooler
- Recommended Uses For Product: Picnic
- Model Name: Brooks
- Product Care Instructions: Hand Wash
The bag is spacious, with a large main compartment that can hold a substantial amount of food and drinks. The separate wine cooler compartment is a unique feature that wine enthusiasts will appreciate. It’s designed to keep your wine at the perfect temperature, ensuring you can enjoy a refreshing drink wherever you are.
Pros
- Dual-compartment cooler: Main compartment fits 24 soda cans; the second section holds two wine bottles or two large bottles of your choice
- Perfect for grab-&-go: Stylish and lightweight insulated cooler bag is one-of-a-kind
- Versatile soft cooler: This insulated soft cooler wine bag is a day trip must-have for all occasions
- Excellent thermal insulation: Lined with easy-to-clean PEVA interior liner
Cons
- It could leak when using ice cubes
Conclusion
Soft bag coolers are also incredibly durable. They are made from high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of outdoor activities. Whether you’re hiking in the mountains or lounging on the beach, you can count on your soft bag cooler to keep your food and drinks safe and cold.
One of the key advantages of soft bag coolers is their portability. They are typically lightweight and come with features like shoulder straps or handles for easy transportation. This makes them suitable for a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and camping to boating and fishing.
Another significant benefit of soft bag coolers is their durability. They are often made with robust materials designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. This means they can serve their purpose for several years, offering excellent value for money.
Soft bag coolers are also versatile. They come in various sizes and designs, catering to different needs and preferences. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, there’s a soft bag cooler that’s just right for you.
Soft bag coolers are a good and necessary investment for anyone who enjoys spending time outdoors. They offer a practical solution for keeping food and drinks cold, are easy to transport, and are built to last. They are suitable for a wide range of activities and are sure to enhance your outdoor experiences.
