10 Best Backpack Coolers 2026 in the United States

The YETI Hopper M12 Backpack Soft Cooler is a solid choice for campers and hikers needing a reliable way to keep drinks and small food items cold on the go. It can hold up to 240 fluid ounces, roughly the size needed for about 20 cans, which is handy for day trips or small gatherings. Its ColdCell insulation uses closed-cell foam that does a great job maintaining chill for hours, so your beverages stay refreshingly cold. The DryHide shell is made from tough, puncture-resistant vinyl that also protects against sun damage, making it durable enough for outdoor adventures.

One standout feature is the MagShield Access - strong magnets form a leak-resistant seal while allowing easy access to your items, which helps prevent spills but keeps the cooler securely closed when needed. The backpack design includes comfortable multiple carry handles and a practical kangaroo pocket outside for small essentials like keys or a phone. However, at around 3 kilograms (6.7 pounds), it might feel a bit heavy when fully packed, especially if you’re hiking long distances. Also, while it is leakproof, users should still handle it carefully to avoid messes.

Its size is perfect for personal use or small groups but might be limiting if you want to carry larger quantities or bigger items. The YETI Hopper M12 Backpack offers excellent insulation, durability, and smart features that suit outdoor enthusiasts looking for a dependable cooler backpack that balances comfort with tough materials.

The YETI Hopper M20 Backpack Cooler is a great choice if you want a hands-free way to carry drinks or food while keeping them cold. It holds about 18 cans or 26 pounds of ice, which suits small outings or day trips. Thanks to its ColdCell insulation, it does a solid job keeping your items chilly for hours. Its DryHide shell material is tough and resistant to punctures and sun damage, making it durable enough for outdoor adventures. The MagShield Access feature uses magnets to keep the cooler sealed tight against leaks but also lets you open it easily, which is handy.

At around 3.4 kilograms (or 7.5 pounds), it's not the lightest backpack but carries comfortably due to smart design and multiple handles. The built-in HitchPoint Grid is a nice touch, allowing you to attach extra gear like toolkits or bottle openers. On the downside, its 6.3-liter capacity might feel limited if you need to carry larger loads or longer trips. Also, while waterproof and leak-resistant, you should avoid submerging it fully in water.

This backpack cooler suits campers, hikers, or anyone needing a reliable, portable cooler that blends durability and ease of use without being overly bulky.

The Yeti Hopper M15 Soft Cooler is a solid choice for those who want a tough, portable backpack cooler for activities like beach trips, boating, or short hikes. It can hold about 32 cans or 15.5 pounds of ice, which is enough for small groups or day outings. Its insulation uses ColdCell closed-cell foam that does a good job keeping your items cold for several hours. The dryhide nylon shell feels rugged and resists punctures and sun damage, making it durable in outdoor conditions.

A smart feature is the MagShield Access—a magnetic seal system that helps prevent leaks while being easy to open and close, adding convenience and confidence that your cooler won't spill. Weighing approximately 3.45 kg (around 7.6 lbs), it’s not the lightest option, so it may feel a bit heavy if you’re carrying it for long distances, and comfort depends on personal preference since strap details aren't emphasized. It also comes with a kangaroo pocket on the outside for quick access to small essentials like keys or your phone.

It is water-resistant but not fully waterproof, so it’s better at handling splashes than submersion. The size is moderate, so if you need to carry larger amounts or longer-lasting ice retention, this might feel limited. For those who value durability and leak resistance in a manageable size with some handy pockets, the Hopper M15 stands out as a reliable, well-made cooler backpack.