10 Best Backpack Coolers To Buy In 2024

What Is A Backpack Cooler?

A backpack cooler is simply a backpack that can serve as a cooler. Simply put, a backpack cooler is a backpack plus a cooler. It has a 2-in-1 ability. Usually, a backpack is a bag with 2 shoulder straps that is carried on the back and used for carrying supplies, especially when going camping or hiking. 

A cooler is usually used for thermal conservation. The major difference between a regular backpack and a backpack cooler is in its thermal preservation abilities. Backpack coolers have good insulation that keeps your food and drinks either cold or warm. 

Yes! They can be used to keep your beverages warm as well as cold.  

Backpack coolers are similar to regular backpacks, but with extra insulation to keep your drinks and food chilled. They are a must-have piece of warm-weather gear for everyone who enjoys day trips and camping. 

Except you are going on a long vacation, a soft cooler strapped to your back will be enough to carry cans of drinks and get by.

Wow! A backpack cooler sounds so cool. Yes, it does but before you rush into buying one that could frustrate you, here are a few things you should consider.

• Size
• Weight
• Storage capacity
• Weight distribution
• Comfort
• Ice retention and insulation
• Durability and materials used
• Pockets and additional storage space
• Waterproof and leak-proof features
• Extras such as bottle openers

Depending on the nature of your adventure, you might want to go with a fully insulated cooler backpack for cold drinks, or you could opt for a split design to carry room-temperature snacks as well. 

In a time when it seems like comfort is very expensive, backpack coolers – a must-have for every outdoorsy person – are not only a better alternative, but they are also quite inexpensive.

A good backpack cooler allows you to enjoy your hikes, camping, beach, and outdoor events with the assurance of a cold beverage whenever you need it. Backpack coolers are not limited to specific events or places. If you can get there, so can your cold beverage.

The best backpack coolers are comfortable, light, and most importantly – leakproof. With a backpack cooler, you can still look cool and chic without lugging a heavy cooler at your side. 

It also helps you to travel faster and smarter as compared to traditional coolers. Your posture is not affected and your strength is conserved.

Imagine you can go anywhere without having to worry about a cold beverage. You have more grounds to cover as limitations have been removed. With your hands free, you get to carry out other activities or simply enjoy your adventure.

Our Top 10 Pick For The Best Backpack coolers

1. YETI Hopper 24 Soft-Sided Cooler

Unlike many other backpack coolers, the YETI 24 soft-sided cooler comes in a range of cool colors. With this product there is no playing around – it gets the work done but it will cost you. It is built to impress and this is reflected in the customer reviews.

The HydroLok leak-proof zipper is extremely efficient, pleasant, and simple to use. It takes no energy to open or close it. The backpack is also comprised of a high-density fabric that is waterproof, mildew-resistant, and does not collect moisture.

These features set the YETI backpack cooler apart from the rest. The backpack boasts a water-resistant, ultra-durable exterior that can withstand the weather, as well as a watertight zipper and a food-grade interior. 

The shell is resistant to puncture, mildew, and ultraviolet radiation. As a result, you can be certain that the backpack cooler will withstand any outdoor activity. With closed-cell foam insulation, a detachable chest strap, and a waist belt for increased stability and comfort, it performs remarkably well. 

The rear panel is a little harder than the front panel, but it’s still quite comfy. The cooler has excellent insulation and can readily keep ice for over 92 hours (about 4 days). The exterior grid loops may be utilized to connect various accessories, such as bottle openers if needed.

It can hold up to 25 pounds of ice or a full day’s worth of groceries. The YETI Hopper Backflip’s size and capacity would have made it difficult to transport, but the ergonomic shoulder straps make it comfortable.

The backpack is easy to move around thanks to its design, which uniformly distributes weight over the waistline. It comes in a variety of colors, including a vibrant coral and a muted charcoal gray, in addition to sage green.

Specifications

• Dimensions (L x H x W)
• Size: 75 x 14.75 x 11.25 inches
• Capacity (including ice) – 37L
• 12oz standard cans: 24
• Weight: 3 pounds
• Ice retention: approximately 4 days

Pros:

• Wide opening for easy access
• Even weight distribution
• Ergonomic shoulder straps
• Excellent ice retention
• Variety of cool colors
• Exceptional performance and durability

Cons:

• It is pricey
• No extra storage pockets

2. Icemule Boss Backpack Cooler

The ergonomic design of ICEMULE Coolers allows them to be carried on your back like a quality backpack. The ICEMULE BOSS, designed to seem like a high-end technical backpack, travels to places that no regular cooler would consider. 

Most other backpack coolers don’t keep beverages as cold or as long as this one does. With the ICEMULE BOSS, you won’t have to worry about keeping your drinks ice cold.

The backpack is fully waterproof, and the compartments may be utilized to keep your devices dry as well. You have nothing to fear whether hiking, camping, rafting, or kayaking. The waterproof, leak-proof, and ultra-durable Boss can withstand any situation.

With a capacity of 30 liters, the ICEMULE BOSS is one of the largest backpack coolers available. This means it can comfortably hold 24 pieces of 12-ounce cans.

It may appear big, yet it is not as heavy as it appears. As unbelievable as it sounds it weighs only 5 pounds. It’s easy to carry over long distances because of its well-balanced weight distribution.

The pack has adjustable hip belts and sternum straps, as well as double-padded mesh shoulder straps and hip padding. The shoulder straps are non-slip as well. The backpack’s construction ensures that it is securely attached to your body and will not fall off.

This frees up your hands to carry other necessary items for your excursion. It’s easy to forget you’re carrying anything on day hikes since its design provides superior airflow to the majority of backpack coolers on the market.

One of the backpack’s best features is that it has an air intake valve that, when blown, provides an insulating barrier between the inner liner and the outside shell.

MuleSkin 1,000-denier fabric is used on the outside, which is sturdy and tough enough to handle harsh situations. The shoulder straps are a little broader, but they’re not as restrictive as some other models.

It is well-insulated and will preserve beverages at an ice-cold temperature for 3 to 5 days. It has a good ice retention rate, making it ideal for picnics and short excursions.

For heavy-duty use, this top-of-the-line backpack cooler is the clear winner. The ICEMULE Boss’ practicality and efficiency are second to none, according to serious outdoor explorers.

Specifications

• Dimensions (L x H x W)
• Size: 17 x 24 x 11 inches
• Front Pocket: 10 x 2 x 12 inches
• Side Pockets: 5 x 2 x 9.5 inches
• Capacity (including ice) – 30L
• 750ml bottles: 5
• 12oz standard cans: 24
• Weight: 5 pounds
• Ice retention: about 5 days

Pros:

• Great ice retention
• It floats and is waterproof
• Can withstand tough conditions
• Good weight distribution
• Has a large capacity

Cons:

• The pocket zippers are hard to open and close
• Bulky when compared to similar types
• More costly than others in its class

3. OtterBox Tropper LT30 Backpack Cooler

The Trooper LT30 is versatile as it easily adapts to various conditions. This makes it highly suitable for picnics, sporting events, campouts, rafting, fishing, hunting, road trips, and more. It is equipped with innovative mounting systems.

The Duraflex tie-downs and 2-inch-wide padded shoulder straps provide a unique conversion for the Trooper LT30. The convertible straps make it possible for the cooler to be carried on one side.

The design of the Trooper is such that the mouth is wide enough to allow for easy loading and quick access to snacks and drinks. At first sight, opening the top latch might seem like a chore.

The latch system is quite easy to learn and once mastered, you will appreciate the premium insulation it provides. The width of the opening makes it convenient to grab a snack or drink with ease.

The exterior pockets have zippers that are resistant to water. This provides safe storage for your things.  It is leak-proof and rugged. The exterior is made from coated nylon that is resistant to puncture, chemicals, and ultraviolet radiation. 

The heavy-duty base protects the bottom from abrasion which protects the backpack cooler from rough surfaces and helps it stay upright.  Rated IP-65 to protect against rushing rapids and pounding waves.

The firm back panel is comfortable for short hikes. For long hikes, the rigid base rubs against the lower back and can cause a bruise.

The 2-inch-wide shoulder strap limits motion range as it pushes into the shoulders. Reaching down to hold a toddler or pet might not be very comfortable with the Trooper LT30.

The cooler kept beverages ice-cold for well over 4 days. The OtterBox Trooper LT 30 boasts a 30-quartz capacity. The size is both an advantage and a disadvantage.

Due to its size, it can conveniently accommodate 50 12-ounce cans. However, this also makes it bulky. A bottle opener is included in this package. OtterBox Trooper is proudly backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

Specifications

• Dimensions (L x H x W)
• Size: 17 x 21 x 11 inches
• Capacity (including ice) – 64L
• 12oz standard cans: 50
• Weight: 7 pounds
• Ice retention: 4 days

Pros:

• Has an extremely high ice retention
• 2 of the outside pockets can be converted into cup holders
• 2 carrying options are available
• Has a leak-proof latch
• The exterior is made with TPU-reinforced nylon making it tough
• Great insulation

Cons:

• The cooler’s lock isn’t completely intuitive, but it can be easily figured out
• It is quite heavy
• Restricted range of arm movement when cinched down
• It’s quite expensive

4. Arctic Zone Titan Guide Series

The Titan Guide Series 30 Can Backpack Cooler preserves ice for up to three days, making it ideal for hiking and camping trips. This is the only backpack you’ll need for single-day travels due to its sheer size and number of pockets. It is your one-and-done backpack bag.

The Titan Guide Series 30 Can Backpack Cool makes it simple to tote everything the team requires. This backpack includes a large main compartment that can easily fit a full rack of cans, as well as a separate inside ice pack pocket that keeps you from having to dig through the ice to get to the bottom. 

It has various accessory compartments (some padded while others are not) for storing other necessities, such as first-aid kits, children’s toys, and energy bars, as well as elasticized gear straps for additional storage.

Deep Freeze high-performance insulation for long-lasting cold and an extra-thick, Ultra Safe leak-proof, easy-to-clean lining with Microban to guard against bacterial smells and stains are both included in the big main compartment.

There’s also an ice pack compartment on the inside with a hook and loop closure. The outside is comprised of long-lasting, stain-resistant, and waterproof Rhino-Tech fabric. The airy mesh panels and adjustable, cushioned straps make it simple to carry despite its big capacity.

The additional accessory pockets are cushioned and lined with fleece. The backpack contains various accessory pockets of varying sizes and a cushioned back with Cool Stream breathable mesh panels, ergonomic, padded backpack straps, adjustable sternum straps, and neoprene carry handles.

Specifications

• Dimensions (L x H x W)
• Size: 75 x 22 x 12 inches
• Capacity (including ice)
• 12oz standard cans: 30
• Weight: 93 pounds
• Ice retention: about 5 days

Pros:

• Microban antibacterial protection
• There are several big and deep pockets
• Resistant to stains
• Waterproof and long-lasting
• Inexpensive

Cons:

• Bulky

5. TOURIT Terns Insulated Cooler Backpack

The TOURIT CYGNINI insulated backpack has a very comfortable design. The design looks reassuring and comfortable. Looking like your regular backpack it fits into various places. Its cooling ability distinguishes it from other regular backpacks.

Due to its stylish design, it can also be used as a lunch backpack or daily pack. This provides the advantage of enjoying your cold beverage with your friend(s) or family at the beach or on a boat.

The TOURIT backpack cooler is your greatest companion for all sorts of outdoor activities, whether you enjoy road/beach excursions, picnics, fishing, or everyday hiking.

It is made from high-quality thickened PEVA hot-pressed material to keep your snacks and drinks cool for 16 hours at a temperature below 15℃ with freeze packs.

For the TOURIT backpack, it is strictly advised not to put ice directly into the cooler backpack. Instead, the use of freeze packs is advised. This protects the waterproof material on the inside of the backpack.

For a lightweight, roomy yet affordable backpack, the TOURIT insulated backpack is an excellent choice. It weighs only 1.27 pounds and has a capacity of 28L.

This means that it can hold 30 drink cans with a few freeze packs.  It can also keep about 2 to 3 people’s food fresh for a few hours, preserving the longevity and taste of the food.

The outside of the backpack is made with ventilated material on the back to prevent your clothes from getting wet by condensation. It has 2 bottle holders, one on each side, and a mesh pocket on the strap that can fit your phone.

There are also multiple compartments for extra storage. The main compartment is thermally insulated to keep food and drinks either cold or warm. The 2 front zipper pockets can be used to store tableware, dry items, and other valuables for easy access.

To prevent leakage, the inside has both thick foam insulation and a leak-proof liner. To ensure ultimate comfort, the shoulder straps and rear are padded. It is durable and can take a beating.

Specifications

• Dimensions (L x H x W)
• Size: 13 x 7.5 x 17.7 inches
• Capacity (including ice) – 28L
• 12oz standard cans: 30
• Weight: 27 pounds
• Material: 600D Oxford + 10mm EPE Foam + Heat-welded PEVA;
• Ice retention: 16 hours

Pros:

• It is inexpensive
• It is portable and stylish
• It is lightweight
• It is leak-proof
• It is comfortable to carry around
• It is easy to clean

Cons:

• The use of freeze packs instead of ice

6. Igloo Pursuit 24-Can Backpack

For the Igloo Pursuit, the appearance already sells the backpack. It has a sleek but not fragile modern design that depicts sturdiness. It already looks like a hiking/camping bag so you don’t need me to tell you that it’s a great backpack cooler to take on an adventure.

For most backpack coolers, they are simply coolers that can be carried as a backpack. But for the Igloo Pursuit, it is both a cooler and a backpack – literally.

A cooler because it can be used to keep your beverages chilled. The advanced insulation keeps your drinks and food cold for wherever the adventure takes you — from the trails to the beach and beyond. It has a double zipper lid and is quite lightweight.

And a backpack because you get to keep a lot of things inside and around it. This is an amazing feature that shows the intentionality of Igloo in ensuring that your hands are free for other fun aspects of your adventure. 

The ability to transport all or most of your things is made possible due to the 2 tall mesh water bottle holders, the large insulated front pocket (which can take a tablet or iPad), the interior pocket inside the lid with zip closure, the spacious zippered pocket on the inside of the lid to organize utensils or other items, and the exterior zippered pocket on top of the lid.

The Igloo Pursuit doesn’t just stop at cooling your refreshments, it makes your trip easier and fun. It boasts a robust, good-looking exterior, storage for non-perishable items and accessories, external straps for carrying a rolled-up towel, blanket, or yoga mat, and a built-in bottle opener.

It can even accommodate a small fold-out chair – it is simply amazing! Interestingly, the backpack can also be carried in more than one way.

The adjustable padded shoulder straps (with a weight-distributing sternum strap), top grab handles, and quick-grab side handles provide plenty of carrying options.

With room to spare, the pack accommodated two packaged lunches in Tupperware, beer cans, and sparkling water. It was comfortable to transport the pack because of the ample cushion and breathable mesh along the back panel and shoulder straps.

The interior liner also had a soft buttery feel that allowed for easy discarding of melted ice. This cooler is able to hold ice for 64 hours and can conveniently house 24 cans of standard-sized drinks. What else – it is also fully leak-proof.

Specifications

• Dimensions (L x H x W)
• Size: 9 x 12.6 x 7.5 inches
• Capacity (including ice) – 29L
• 12oz standard cans: 24
• Weight: 09 pounds
• Ice retention: about 2.5 days

Pros:

• Loaded with pockets
• Clean aesthetic
• Amazing customer reviews
• Lightweight

Cons:

• Doesn’t retain ice super well in direct sunlight
• The chest strap isn’t the most compatible for bigger chests or busts
• Colors are quite masculine

7. Coleman 28-Can Portable Soft Cooler

The Soft Cooler Backpack from Coleman makes bringing your beverages for a day’s journey easy. This backpack boasts a top compartment with a zipped wide-mouth opening that makes loading and unloading a breeze.

The zip is easy to open and close, however, it is not waterproof. This implies that if you have melted ice in your backpack when it is strapped to your back, you should avoid bending over to avoid water falling out. A front flap pocket and two side mesh pockets are included in the bag.

It has a contemporary, sleek, practical, and portable design. This bag will come in handy for picnics, camping, and tailgating. It can hold up to 28 drink cans, making it ideal for families and small parties.

Drinks stay icy cold for up to 42 hours because of the ultra-thick insulation. The shoulder straps and side handles on this convertible backpack are sturdy and adjustable.

The Coleman soft cooler backpack incorporates cushioned straps that allow lugging the backpack simple and stress-free, despite the lack of waist and chest straps.

You’ll never be left stranded with the built-in bottle opener. Antimicrobial treatment makes the liner resistant to smells, mold, mildew, and fungus. This makes cleaning the backpack stress-free.

Specifications

• Dimensions (L x H x W)
• Size: 8 x 17.3 x 7.3 inches
• Capacity (including ice)
• 12oz standard cans: 28
• Weight: 57 pounds
• Ice retention: approximately 2 days

Pros:

• Has a cool retro camping gear look
• Great insulation
• Lightweight
• Padded sided handles
• Affordable

Cons:

• Zipper not watertight
• No chest or waist strap
• Slightly stiff

8. Hydro Flask Day Escape Soft Cooler Pack

The Hydro Flask backpack is supposed to provide 36 hours of cold insulation, but it has been tested to store ice for nearly 60 hours, which is more than 2 days! 

The cooler features thin, malleable walls that feel thin and soft but it surprisingly holds its own.  It is quite comfy and convenient to travel with.

Due to its flexibility, the backpack looks fragile but it is quite sturdy. Its strength comes from the ergonomic straps and 600D polyester waterproof material. The chest strap keeps the shoulder straps in place; otherwise, they’d slip about. 

A feature is the stretch mesh side pocket, which can comfortably hold a 1L bottle or utensils. The lightweight durability of the Hydro Flask backpack cooler allows you to take your adventure further.

The backpack is completely waterproof. It has welded seams and a zipper to prevent water from getting in or out. You can enjoy your journey without worrying about getting wet. 

The dust-proof zipper is simple to open and close. It’s made to be quiet, requires little pulling power, and self-heals. This implies that if the zipper separates for whatever reason, you have no need to worry. 

All you have to do now is slip the zipper back into place, and it will snap back into place. When compared to a conventional zipper, a waterproof zipper takes two hands and more time to open and close. To put the size of this pack into perspective, it can hold 36 12-ounce cans.

Specifications

• Dimensions (L x H x W)
• Size: 13 x 17.7 x 7.8 inches
• Capacity (including ice) – 20L
• 12oz standard cans: 24
• Weight: 3 pounds
• Ice retention: 5 days

Pros:

• Watertight top zipper
• Durable
• Good ice retention
• The thick bottom helps the cooler stand upright
• BPA-free liner
• 5-year warranty

Cons:

• Can be tough to store
• Shoulder straps tend to dangle

9. Carhartt 2-in-1 Insulated Cooler Backpack

Consider the Carhartt Cooler Backpack if you’re going on a day trek. This dual-compartment bag can accommodate 12 cans and has plenty of room for your other items. It has an insulated base that can hold an icepack to keep your meals cold for up to 24 hours.

This bag contains a primary compartment on top of the cooler area to keep all of your non-perishables. A wide zippered front pocket with two inside mesh side pockets for a water bottle, insect spray, or umbrella is located on the exterior. There is adequate room to store your belongings.

This cooler backpack is constructed of 1200D heavy-duty polyester that is tough enough for all of your outdoor adventures and has a water-repellent covering to keep you dry in case of a shower.

It comes in brown and black and weighs 1.5 pounds. The cooler can hold 12 drink cans and keeps ice for roughly a day.

Specifications

• Dimensions (L x H x W)
• Size: 5 x 17.8 x 8 inches
• Capacity (including ice) – 29L
• 12oz standard cans: 12
• Weight: 5 pounds
• Ice retention: 1 day

Pros:

• The presence of a net pocket inside the cooler compartment to keep ice packs
• Plenty of extra storage space
• Extremely lightweight
• Suitable for day trips

Cons:

• Not suitable for ice. Uses icepack
• Not enough space for a group
• Shallow side mesh pockets
• The back panel is not breathable

10. OAGear Backpack Cooler

The OAGear Backpack Cooler features a lot of room for storage. There’s enough storage in the backpack for 20 12-ounce cans plus ice. The backpack contains one front zipper compartment and two exterior side mesh pockets in addition to the spacious insulated inside.

The front interwoven bungee rope provides additional storage for foldable chairs and other necessities. The inside of the pack is protected with a leak-proof, heat-sealed material. This dry lining keeps your drinks cool and makes the backpack more comfortable while protecting you from spills.

All of your beverages will remain cold in your OAGear backpack cooler whether you’re tailgating or spending the day at the beach. It also includes generously cushioned adjustable shoulder straps that make carrying the backpack more comfortable.

It’s possible that you’ll forget you’re carrying 20 cans on your back. due to the comfort of the backpack. It may not keep your beverages cold for an extended period of time due to its low price, but it will suffice for a few hours.

Using freeze packs, this backpack will keep your refreshments cold for roughly 6 hours. This OAGear backpack cooler has a lot of purpose and adaptability for a low price.

You can travel with your hands-free while still carrying all of your needs. The backpack is available in a variety of hues, including gray, black, blue, and camouflage.

Specifications

• Dimensions (L x H x W)
• Size: 5 x 7.75 x 12.25 inches
• Capacity (including ice): 25L
• 12oz standard cans: 20
• Weight: 4 pounds

Pros:

• Affordable
• Lightweight
• Lots of storage space

Cons:

• It is on the small side
• Shoulder straps are small for bigger people
• Use of ice packs instead of ice to prevent leaking

More Detailed Guidelines For Choosing A Backpack Cooler

Before going ahead to choose a backpack cooler, it is important to understand what a backpack cooler is and the difference between a regular backpack and a backpack cooler. Here are a few things you should consider before making a decision:

• Size
• Weight
• Storage capacity
• Weight distribution
• Comfort
• Ice retention and insulation
• Durability and materials used
• Pockets and additional storage space
• Waterproof and leak-proof features
• Extras such as bottle openers

Size

It is crucial to consider the size of your cooler. That should go without saying, but it’s crucial to consider what you’ll be using your cooler for when deciding on the correct size.

Carrying a cooler that is far larger and heavier than it needs to be is inconvenient and tiresome. 

The external measurements of each bag will give you a good idea of how much storage space you’ll have. However, depending on the kind and firmness of the insulation, the inside dimensions of each pack will be somewhat smaller.

Due to design constraints, most backpack coolers are kept small. They’ve found the ideal size for transporting drinks for one or two individuals, as well as a few munchies. If you want to transport items for a large group, you would need a larger size. 

Choose a cooler backpack based on the amount of storage space and back support you require. The more people in your company, the more cargo space you’ll need.

The majority of cooler packs have a capacity of 20 to 29 liters. The Igloo Pursuit, for example, has enough room for a two-person single-day expedition, while the Hydro Flask Day Escape can hold enough beverages and snacks for a four-person hiking adventure.

Weight

Backpack coolers are smaller and lighter than hard coolers because they are composed of softer, lighter materials. They generally include solid shoulder straps and easy-to-grasp handles, making the weight seem comfortable to move.

When the capacity, durability, and insulating capability of a pack improve, the weight of the pack increases as well.

The lightweight backpack coolers weigh between 1 to 2 pounds. Bags that are larger and more sturdy might weigh up to 7.5 pounds. It’s crucial to remember that weight isn’t always a good indicator of durability.

Storage Capacity

Though similar in size, it is not exactly the same thing. To a large extent, the size determines the capacity. However, it is important to note that stated capacities are not always trustworthy. 

A backpack cooler could be said to fit 30 standard-sized cans. The question is would the same bag fit after adding ice and without the can bulging into your back? To be on the safer side, you should perhaps leave a can or two at home.

Weight Distribution

A 24- to 30-drink pack isn’t exactly light. When you throw in a bag of ice and a few snacks, you’ve got a bag that weighs roughly 25 pounds or more.

If you are going to be carrying a backpack cooler for an extended period of time, ergonomic shoulder pads and a cushioned belt will help distribute the weight properly and save you from a lot of pain.

The weight is stabilized by hip and chest straps, which prevent it from swinging about. Hip belts provide support and appropriately transfer weight away from the shoulders.

Comfort

One of the benefits of a backpack cooler is that it adds comfort to your adventure. Why would you buy a backpack cooler if it hurts your shoulders and you have to hold it in your hand? When purchasing a backpack, one of the most crucial factors to consider is comfort.

The design has a big impact on comfort. As a result, it is critical to pay attention to the design. A soft backpack cooler will cushion your back better than a solid one. This is due to the fact that they are more pliable than solid backpacks. The shoulder straps’ length is also important. 

When carried over extended distances, a backpack cooler with a hard base that sits against your hip bones might cause bruising. Rigid designs generally offer a solid base, but some feature a cushioned hip belt that protects your hip bones from pain.

Padded shoulder straps are required to protect your shoulders and impact overall comfort. Straps that are wider, stiffer, or more widely spaced might restrict the range of motion or feel uncomfortable.

Note – Backpack coolers come in a variety of firmnesses, with the firmest having greater insulation and hence higher ice retention.

Ice retention and Insulation

A cooler’s insulation may make or break it. It also has the greatest effect on the cost. Do you need a cooler to keep a few beverages cold for a day at the beach or a pack to keep food fresh for a long camping weekend?

A larger price tag is usually associated with better ice retention, although this isn’t always the case. Many factors impact the ice retention of a cooler when used outside, including how often it is opened, direct sunshine, and how hot or cold the weather is.

Since backpack coolers are essentially soft coolers, many of them employ open-cell foam, which is more pliable while still insulating, but not as well as closed-cell foam used in hard coolers. 

A few backpack coolers, however, do make use of closed-cell foam. Closed-cell foam insulates better, but it costs more and weighs more, so be sure you’re willing to spend more both literally and metaphorically for greater performance.

Thickness and evenness are two key features to look for in your backpack cooler’s insulation. No matter what sort of insulation is utilized, the thicker the insulation, the better the cold preservation. 

Look for weak spots in the insulation as well. The insulation must completely envelop the interior compartment to be effective. 

If just three sides are insulated, the fourth side will be a weak link, reducing chill time dramatically, especially if it is the side against your back.

Durability and Materials Used

The specifications of various backpacks will be varied. Some are plainly designed to replace a lunch box, while others are constructed with more robust materials. Premium materials are more expensive, but they often last longer and are more resistant to the elements. 

It is critical that you select a backpack that is both comfortable and sturdy, as well as one that is fitted to your specific needs.

It’s crucial to consider if paying extra for more lasting materials and construction is worthwhile. You don’t need to spend a lot on a backpack if you only intend on utilizing the cooler to keep some drinks cold on a trip to the beach. 

If you plan on bringing your pack into the woods, where branches and bushes are bound to snag it or get stuck in the straps, a more sturdy design is required. In this scenario, you should opt for packs comprised of nylon fibers that are more durable. Many of these packs will have camping-related features.

The outer, insulation, inside lining, shoulder straps and padding, back panel, zippers, buckles, and attachment points are all made of different materials. The waterproofness, durability, insulating value, and whether or not the surface linen causes condensation are all influenced by the material quality. 

Comfort, breathability, and support are all determined by the materials. The world of backpack coolers is surprisingly sophisticated—there are plenty of innovations in design and fabric technology that contribute to what appears to be a very simple purchase these days. 

A watertight lid zipper, welded seams, and whether the external fabric causes moisture are all important features to consider. To avoid getting wet, you’ll need a water-tight zipper. It’s also a plus if the materials are stain, mildew, and ultraviolet radiation resistant.

Pockets and Additional Storage Space

Is the entire backpack a cooler?  Snacks and equipment may be carried more easily with additional pockets or backpacks with separate sections. They may, however, restrict the amount of cooler space you have.

Extra pockets also improve the weight distribution of your backpack. Ascertain that you can keep items apart if necessary. Some of your items may not need to be kept chilled. Also, you won’t be able to keep your electronics between the iced drinks.

Consider the not-so-obvious pockets.  Where will you store your phone, wallet, and keys if you’re heading to the beach?

Leaving them unprotected might result in a severely overheated phone and the theft of your belongings. Make sure the extra pockets are big enough and hidden enough to keep your belongings safe.

Waterproof and Leak-proof Features

Ice melts with the passage of time. You will have chilly water trickling down your back and legs if your backpack cooler is not waterproof. Waterproof coolers not only keep the water out, but they also keep the elements out of your goodies.

Extras

Do you require a bottle opener, speakers, or somewhere to secure your other belongings? Take a moment to look around and see what solutions are available with features that might help you reduce your load. 

Many coolers come with entertaining and helpful features that don’t add much to the overall cost. Look for the extras that will benefit you the most.