10 Best Backpacks With Coolers 2026 in the United States

The YETI Hopper M20 Backpack Cooler is a great choice if you need a portable cooler that keeps things cold and lets you carry your drinks hands-free. It holds up to 36 cans or 22 pounds of ice, which is a decent size for day trips like picnics, fishing, or hiking. Its ColdCell insulation uses closed-cell foam to keep your items cold for a good amount of time, which is important if you want to keep food or drinks chilled without constantly adding ice.

The unique MagShield Access is a smart feature—magnets help keep the cooler sealed tight to prevent leaks but also allow it to stay open easily when you need it. Comfort-wise, it’s designed as a backpack, so you can carry it on your back instead of holding it, which is easier during outdoor activities, although the weight of 6 pounds might feel a bit heavy when fully loaded. The DryHide shell material is tough and resistant to punctures and sun damage, so it should hold up well outdoors and last through rough use. There’s also a HitchPoint Grid to attach extra gear like a dry case or bottle opener, which adds convenience.

While it’s portable and durable, the M20's capacity is on the smaller side compared to some other coolers if you need to carry a lot for bigger groups or longer trips. The price, typical for YETI products, might be higher than simpler coolers. This backpack cooler is suited for users looking for a reliable, well-insulated cooler that’s easy to carry on moderate day outings, with added durability and handy features for outdoor enthusiasts.

The Hydro Flask Cooler Backpack offers a solid 20-liter capacity, which is enough to carry beverages and snacks for a day at the beach or a short trip. Its insulation is designed to keep contents cold for up to 24 hours when used with ice packs, which is impressive for a soft cooler. Comfort is enhanced by padded, stowable shoulder straps and easy-grab handles, making it versatile for hands-free carrying or hand transport.

Durability is well considered, with water-resistant recycled polyester fabric and a compression-molded lid and base that help the backpack stand upright and handle rough use. The use of 100% recycled materials and bluesign approval adds appeal for eco-conscious users. One drawback might be its weight of 2.2 pounds, which is somewhat on the heavier side for a soft cooler backpack and could add to the load when fully packed. Also, it requires hand washing, which means a bit more care in maintenance.

This backpack cooler balances good insulation, comfort, and an eco-friendly build, making it a great choice for casual beach days, picnics, or travel. Those looking for a larger capacity or more rugged features for extended trips might want to consider other options.

The MIYCOO Cooler Backpack is a solid choice for anyone needing a portable cooler for outdoor activities like beach trips, picnics, hiking, or BBQs. It can hold up to 40 cans (about 28 liters), which makes it spacious enough for a small group. The backpack's insulation is strong, keeping items cool for up to 12 hours thanks to high-density materials and a leakproof liner, which is a big plus to prevent spills.

Comfort-wise, it features padded shoulder straps and an ergonomic design, making it easier to carry compared to traditional coolers you hold by hand. The dual compartments are handy for separating drinks from snacks or utensils, helping keep things organized. Additional thoughtful touches include side straps that secure bottles so they won’t tip out, a built-in bottle opener on the strap, and a zip pocket for valuables like your phone or keys. The polyester material suggests decent durability, though it might not be as rugged as hard-shell coolers in rough outdoor conditions.

Users looking for a versatile, easy-to-carry backpack cooler that keeps items chilled for many hours will find this model fitting well. However, if you plan on very rough use or need higher insulation for extreme heat, you might want to check out other options.