The Best Backpack Cooler Bag For 2024

Sara Ryan By, Sara Ryan
Updated
Best Backpack Cooler Bag
Best Backpack Cooler Bag

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Carhartt Two Compartment Cooler

The Carhartt Two Compartment Cooler is an excellent choice for the active outdoor enthusiast. With two separate insulated compartments, this cooler can keep your food and beverages separate and cold for hours. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: ICEMULE Collapsible Backpack Cooler

The ICEMULE Collapsible Backpack Cooler is the perfect companion for any adventure. This lightweight, durable cooler features a unique roll-top design that collapses when empty for easy storage and transport. Read Review

3. Best Comfortable: AMBOR Cooler Backpack Insulated Cooler Bag

This heavy-duty and lightweight bag is made with a double-layered spacious insulated and waterproof storage room for storing beverages or food. The durable nylon material ensures that your bag won't rip, tear, or scratch, and its practical design makes it easy to carry while you're on the go. Read Review

4. Best Lightweight: RTIC Lightweight Backpack Cooler

With plenty of space and easy access to snacks and drinks, this lightweight backpack cooler is perfect for daily use. It’s lined with high-density insulation and food contact material to keep your food fresh longer. Read Review

5. Best Compact: PICNIC TIME Backpack Cooler

The PICNIC TIME Backpack Cooler is the perfect companion for your outdoor adventures. It features an insulated main cooler section that holds up to 23 cans and numerous pockets for extra or isolated storage. Read Review

Backpack coolers are essential for anyone looking to stay on the go with food and drinks that will stay cold and fresh. Whether you’re on a picnic, hiking, or camping or need a place to store your favorite snacks, a backpack cooler bag is perfect. Not only are they convenient and stylish, but the best backpack coolers are made from high-quality materials that are durable and long-lasting.

With so many options, you’ll have no problem finding the right bag for your needs. From large-capacity bags to more compact models, you’ll be able to find the perfect backpack cooler bag to suit your needs. With features like adjustable straps, multiple pockets, and durable materials, you can keep your food and drinks cool and fresh for hours. So whether you’re looking for a bag to take on your next outdoor adventure or need a convenient way to keep your snacks cold, you’ll find the perfect backpack cooler bag.

We think the highly recommended product for the best backpack cooler bag is Carhartt Two Compartment Cooler. This product’s insulated interior liner keeps food and beverages fresh when traveling to any location. In case you need more alternatives and more in-depth guidance, you may explore the following.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Carhartt Two Compartment Cooler
Our Score:
9.7
Carhartt

This cooler's Rain Defender technology, known as durable water repellent (DWR), makes light rain and water possible to bead up and roll off. It offers an insulated base compartment that holds up to 12 cans and keeps them cold for 8+ hours. In addition, this product uses 600D Polyester, a robust and adaptable fabric, to produce heavy-duty bags and gear that will be used outside. Unfortunately, this product's straps are a bit short, which may bring uncomfortable feelings for big guys.

This backpack cooler is perfect for outdoor activities such as camping, picnicking, tailgating, beach vacations, concert and festival going, and even job sites. Because it combines all of these necessary components into a single, convenient package, it eliminates the need for both a backpack and a cooler. Moreover, this product's insulated interior liner can keep food and beverages fresh when traveling to any location, preventing heat transfer from the contents.

TOP Choice #2 ICEMULE Collapsible Backpack Cooler
Our Score:
9.6
IceMule

Strength and excellent ice retention are guaranteed by the ultra-tough mule skin exterior and interior, as well as the PolarLayer Insulation, which allows ice-like temperatures to be maintained for 24 hours or more. Your arms are free to grab your surfboard, fishing rod, or any other adventure gear, thanks to the padded and vented sling strap with this lightweight cooler designed in the shape of a backpack. 

This soft-sided cooler bag is constructed to endure any beach day, hike, picnic, or other outdoor activity you throw at it. This cooler is entirely watertight and floats thanks to its welded seams and lack of a zippered closure. In addition, because the insulation layer may have air added to it through the IM AirValve, the ICEMULE cooler can float right next to your kayak, even when it is full. Even though this product's fold-over top is a bit difficult to close, it still keeps beverages and food cold well.

TOP Choice #3 AMBOR Cooler Backpack Insulated Cooler Bag
Our Score:
9.4
AMBOR

The soft cooler backpack's high-density insulation, thicker material, and enhanced leak-resistant liner ensure that the bag does not leak and that food is kept hot or cold for 12 hours. Your picnic blanket can be stored in the backpack's rope design at the bottom of the bag. This lunch bag is constructed of heavy-duty nylon, which is resistant to ripping, tearing, and scratching yet is still easy to carry due to its low weight.

The AMBOR backpack cooler has a large design that makes it great for traveling to work, having a picnic, hiking, fishing, visiting the park or the beach, etc. This product can hold up to 54 cans of cola. Moreover, this product's adjustable shoulder straps and ergonomic design on the back provide maximum comfort and softness when wearing it. Unfortunately, this product doesn't have enough pockets to store smaller things. 

4 RTIC Lightweight Backpack Cooler
Our Score:
9.2
RTIC

This compact cooler requires little maintenance yet delivers excellent performance, as it can maintain a chilly temperature for up to 24 hours while storing your most essential belongings. Because this product is coated with food contact material, you do not need to worry about its integrity. In addition, you can easily put your dry necessities in the side, front, and top pockets of this bag. 

This lightweight backpack cooler is made of long-lasting polyester and has shoulder straps that are adjustable and padded for comfort. This product has smooth zippers, helping you easily protect inside belongings. In addition, you can easily fold this product to store it everywhere. The only downside of this product is that its material on the inside is a bit thin, but you don't need to be concerned too much because it doesn't affect its overall quality. 

5 PICNIC TIME Backpack Cooler
Our Score:
9.0
PICNIC TIME

This backpack cooler is a soft-sided travel cooler with a fully insulated interior that is water-resistant to keep all your drinks and food at a cool temperature. This huge portable cooler has several compartments that may be used for additional or separate storage, allowing easily arrange your items neatly. It also has an insulated main compartment that can carry up to 23 cans to fit everything you need inside it.

This small 13.5 by 11 by 7 inches bag is the ideal lightweight cooler for longer hikes, destination picnics, and extensive beach outings. This multipurpose travel bag features an outside stretch cargo chain ideal for securing jackets or securing base and mid layers so that they may dry out before the sun sets. Moreover, it includes adjustable backpack straps, allowing you to modify them to the appropriate length. The only drawback of this backpack cooler is that it doesn't have sub-pockets inside to help you store valuable items such as phones, keys, etc.

The soft cooler backpack's insulation material with a high density and a liner that cannot leak work together to maintain the temperature of the food for three days. The ergonomic shoulder straps make the trip less taxing on the traveler's body. In addition, this product offers a chest strap, allowing you to adjust easily and bringing stability and security.

This product is ideal for lunches, picnics at the beach or park, tailgating, hiking, camping, or in the backyard. Its interior lining is constructed from the highest quality BPA-free material, bringing safety to you. In addition, it has an easy-to-pull airtight and waterproof zipper that keeps the soft-sided backpack cooler leak-free to ensure your adventure is more convenient. It is a pity some sewing points on the straps may come off after a long time, so you must tailor it to continue using it.

7 N NEVO RHINO Insulated Cooler Backpack
Our Score:
8.7
N NEVO RHINO

This product is the ideal soft cooler backpack for camping, touring, hiking, self-driving, beach picnics, and other activities that take place outside. Its high-density insulation is thickened 5-layer nylon material with an internal advanced TPU seal that keeps items cold for up to 20 hours. In addition, it has two side mesh pockets, each with an adjustable strap, to assist you in securing loose goods like wine cans and other lightweight and easily dropped items.

This cooler backpack lining uses a high-tech seamless hot pressing procedure to ensure no leaks. This enables you to confidently fill the cooler bag with ice, beer cans, soda cans, and other cold beverages. Reflective tape attached to the shoulder straps on both sides of the cooler bag provides additional protection at night or in low-light environments. Unfortunately, the stitching on the phone pocket is not very good, but it doesn't affect its function. 

More To Consider

8 MIER Insulated Cooler Backpack
Our Score:
8.6
MIER
9 LOKASS Backpack Cooler
Our Score:
8.2
LOKASS

Tips and strategies for selecting the best backpack cooler bag on the market

People are always attempting to make the best decisions for themselves and their families. Whether they're shopping for new shoes or a new automobile, knowing which best backpack cooler bag to buy on the market might be difficult. Fortunately, this article gives some amazing keyword selection tips and tactics, so you don't have to worry about making a bad option!

Cooler Sizes (Capacities)

A few things to consider before we get started: Size. Importantly, coolers do not measure the interior capacity of all models. Some coolers use cans to measure interior capacity, others use liters or quarts. However, most manufacturers use quarts as a unit of measure. We've used that measurement in this article when it was possible. A final point: Don't let the product name fool you.

Cooler Drain Systems

Many of our hard-sided coolers have drainage systems that allow you to drain the water out once the ice is melted. This is usually a pop-off or screw-on cap located at the bottom of cooler. Simply remove it and let the water flow out.

Cooler Latch And Closure Systems

The cooler's closure or latch is a key feature of premium models and will play a major role in cooling performance. Two rubber T-handles are a common feature on high-end, hard-sided coolers. They keep the lid in place and prevent it from opening. They are extremely sturdy and user-friendly.

Weight And Portability

Weighing your cooler is an important factor for those who will be carrying it or moving it around regularly. For models with less capacity, they can weigh as little as 10-15 pounds and up to 50+ for those that have 75+ quarts storage. This number goes up dramatically when you load it down with food and drinks. Even though the handles are made of rope, some are plastic and others are nylon. They are too heavy to be carried for extended distances. We recommend wheels if portability is important. They are easier to carry for longer periods of time and more convenient for one person, so they're less burdensome.

Cooler Construction

There are two main types of construction techniques used to make premium hard-sided coolers: injection molding and rotational molding. Yeti popularized rotomolding (even though they weren't technically the first company to do so) and is the dominant market at the top end. This type of cooler is made from a single, continuous piece of plastic which is then rotated to form the desired shape. These coolers have fewer stress points, so they are more likely to break under pressure. They also feature a thicker outer shell that ensures exceptional durability. Cost and weight are the main drawbacks.

Bear-Resistant Ratings

Many top-rated hard-sided coolers can be listed as being bear-resistant. This is an important consideration if you are camping in bear territory. You should specifically look out for IGBC ratings. This indicates that a cooler has been tested and is in compliance with their regulations. You should ensure your cooler is included if you plan to travel in bear-proof gear or frequent backcountry areas.

Wheeled (Rolling) Coolers

We mentioned above that if you have cooler needs such as mobility and large capacity or maximum ice retention it is a good idea to look into a hard-sided rolling model. These wheeled monsters can still be difficult to maneuver on uneven terrain, and will need assistance if there is no clear path. A rolling cooler is a good choice for camping, tailgating or days at the beach.

Ice Retention And Cooling Capabilities

Ice retention is one of the most difficult things to determine when researching coolers. This is largely due to external factors. The temperature of the air and direct sunlight have a significant impact. Ice quantity is also important. Most brands suggest a ratio of 2:1. You should also open the lid as often as possible to let warm and cold air into your cooler. Pre-chilling your cooler before loading it is a good idea to ensure maximum efficiency. To reduce the cooler's interior temperature, you should fill it with ice at least for a couple of hours. Once you are ready to go, add fresh ice in the right ratio. You can also expect your cooler to become pre-warmed if it is left out in the sunlight before you load it up.

FAQs

What type of material is used to make backpack coolers?

Backpack coolers are typically made from a variety of materials, including polyester, nylon, and neoprene. The type of material used will depend on the specific cooler model. Polyester and nylon are common materials that are lightweight and durable. Neoprene is a more durable and waterproof material, making it a great choice for camping and outdoor activities.

How long can I keep food and drinks cold in a backpack cooler?

It depends on the type of cooler you have, but most backpack coolers can keep food and drinks cold for up to 24 hours. For optimal cooling performance, use ice packs or frozen water bottles to keep items cold.

How much can a backpack cooler hold?

The capacity of a backpack cooler will vary depending on the model. Some backpacks are designed to hold a few cans or bottles of drinks, while others are large enough to hold a full meal. Check the product specifications to determine the exact size and capacity of the cooler.

Are backpack cooler bags safe to use?

Yes, backpack cooler bags are safe to use. They are made of durable materials and designed to keep food and drinks cold or hot. However, it is important to be aware of food safety guidelines to prevent any food-borne illnesses.

Conclusion

Choosing the best backpack cooler bag for your purposes might be a difficult challenge. It is critical to remember what you want to achieve with the purchase as well as any factors that may influence your selection. 
Whether it's as basic as reading reviews before purchasing or inspecting images of best backpack cooler bag on the market from numerous perspectives. When you wish to locate another one, you may also look at the Geckobrands Backpack Cooler. Now, let’s pick one for you!


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About Sara Ryan

Sara Ryan

Sara Ryan is a freelance writer for CampFireHQ and avid diver. She first discovered her love for diving while on vacation in the Caribbean and has been hooked ever since. Sara loves exploring new dive sites and observing the fascinating creatures that live beneath the waves. As a native of Colorado, Sara enjoys spending her free time hiking and camping in the beautiful Rocky Mountains. She also enjoys writing about her adventures in diving and wildlife conservation.

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