Not sure which backpack cooler is best? Use this simple comparison chart to compare
insulated backpacks by capacity, price, rating, special features and more…
Backpack Coolers | Price (approx) | Rating 1-5 | Storage Capacity | Weight | Dry Storage | Special Features |
Rockbros Leakproof | $135-$150 | 4.7 | 20″T 15″W 11″D 36 Cans | 4.5 lbs | No interior dry storage compartments, however, you can attach pouches and items to the side molle straps. | This pack holds 36 cans and also keeps drinks cold for up to 48 hours. In addition, it features an air-tight, leakproof design. Plus, it’s cheaper than a Yeti. Also see Rockbros Backpack review |
Yeti Hopper | $325-$600 | 4.8 | 14 1/2″T 13 1/2″W 10″D 20 Cans | 4.8 lbs | Molle straps on the exterior to hang gear or attach additional small packs. | Ultra-durable backpack that’s waterproof, leakproof and resists punctures. Due to outside temperature and condition variables, Yeti does not state ice retention time. However, the pack contains high-grade closed-cell foam for superior insulation. See more on Yeti backpack coolers |
RTIC Insulated | $170-$190 | 4.6 | 20″T 15″W 10″D | 8 lbs | Bungee straps on front side, but no exterior pockets or separate dry compartments. | This backpack can fit 30 cans and then keep them cold for 2 full days. Plus, the rugged, heavy-duty design includes leak-proof welded seams, waterproof fabric and tear-resistant liner. Plus, it floats. Waterproof insulated backpack cooler review |
Icemule | $349-$379 | 4.9 | 24″T 17″W 11″D 24 Cans | 7.5 lbs | 3 exterior zippered pockets, plus molle straps to attach more gear. | Leak-proof design and premium insulation can keep interior contents cold for up to 2 days. Plus, this waterproof bag can float and hold up to 60 lbs of weight. Excellent cooler for multi-day backpacking trips. Backpack ice chest review |
Coleman Soft Cooler Backpack
| $30-$35 | 4.4 | 19″T 12″W 6″D 28 Cans | 2.5 lbs | 2 side mesh pockets, plus large rear pocket with outer bungee straps. | First, you get Coleman quality at a low price. Second, this supportive, comfortable pack can carry up to 28 cans See Coleman backpack review |
Polar Bear Cooler Backpack
| $100-$110 | 4.5 | 18 cans | 3 lbs | 2 side pockets, back zipped pouch | Backpack has rugged, heavy duty design in addition to top-rated insulation. Consequently, it can keep items cold or warm for 24 hours. See Polar Bear Cooler review. |
AO Cooler Backpack
| $70-$80 | 4.6 | 18 cans + ice | 2.25 lbs | 2 side zipped pouches, 1 rear zipped pouch | First of all, it has twice the insulation of other backpack coolers. Plus, backpack features straps as well as detachable shoulder strap. In addition, it comes in 7 colors. |
OA Gear Cooler Pack
| $20-$25 | 4.3 | 20 cans + ice | 1.4 lbs | 2 side mesh pockets, 1 rear zipped pouch | Pack also comes in 5 more colors. |
Picnic Time Zuma
| $20-$30 | 4.2 | 13 cans in insulated section | 1.5 lbs | 2 side mesh pockets, 1 rear zipped pouch, cell phone pocket on strap | Bottom 1/2 insulated and top 1/2 non-insulated. Plus, it also has handy cell phone pocket on strap. In addition, it comes in 3 colors. |
Igloo Daytripper Picnic Backpack
| $79-$99 | 4.4 | 19.5″T x 12.8″W x 9″D | 3.3 lbs | 2 side pockets, plus segmented pouches for utensils, cutting board and 2 wine bottles. | The Daytripper is designed specifically for picnics. Therefore, dry storage holds picnic supplies with a small cooler compartment at the base: Also see Daytripper review. |
Icemule Classic Cooler Pack
| $60-$200 | 4.6 | 10L, 15L & 120L sizes | 5 lbs | No dry storage or outer pockets, just 1 large cooler compartment. | Icemule packs also have high strength and durability and excellent insulation capacity. Consequently, its great for heavy duty outdoor excursions: See full Icemule review. |
Tips on Buying and Using a Backpack Cooler:
1. First of all, most packs include padded adjustable shoulder straps. In addition, the backside of the backpack also usually features a mesh padding. As a result, it provides additional comfort and insulation.
Consequently, these features play a key role in how much you will enjoy (and use) your pack. For example, if you suffer from a sore back at the end of your hike, you probably won’t want to use your insulated backpack again anytime soon. Thus, get a comfortable pack.
2. Second, insulated backpack coolers usually have a heat-sealed liner to prevent leaks. Therefore, you can typically put ice in them.
However, I suggest using re-usable blue ice because they stay cooler longer and are less messy. Not to mention, they can save you money. Furthermore, ice packs make it really easy to arrange and re-arrange contents in your pack (vs melting ice).
3. Third, you can maximize the lifespan of your insulated backpack simply by cleaning it and letting it dry between each use. In addition, this prevents staining and bad smells from excessive moisture buildup.
For instance, I open and hang my pack upside down in my garage. Hence, the air can easily flow through it until the next time I use it. Plus, I always know where to find it.
Consequently, you may be able to enjoy a $35 backpack longer than a $50 pack. In other words, the best backpack value can often come down to how well you care for your bag.
