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Best Backpacking Coolers for Keeping Food & Drinks Cold on the Trail
Introduction
When you’re heading into the backcountry for a multi-day adventure, keeping food and drinks cold can be a challenge. A backpacking cooler allows you to bring fresh food, cold beverages, and perishable snacks without adding too much bulk or weight to your pack.
In this guide, we鈥檒l explore the best backpacking coolers, covering lightweight soft coolers, high-performance insulated packs, and ultralight cooling solutions. If you’re looking for more ways to keep food fresh, check out our Best Camping Food Storage Containers for additional storage options.
1. What to Look for in a Backpacking Cooler
1.1 Weight & Portability
- Ultralight soft coolers are ideal for backpacking.
- Insulated backpacks offer a combination of carrying capacity and cooling.
- Hard-shell coolers are generally too heavy for long hikes.
馃敼 Best for minimal pack weight: Choose a cooler under 3 lbs for easier carrying.
馃憠 Pairs well with: Best Ultralight Backpacks to reduce overall load.
1.2 Insulation & Ice Retention
- Foam-insulated soft coolers keep items cold for 12-24 hours.
- Reflective liners help maintain temperature longer.
- Ice packs or frozen water bottles improve cooling efficiency.
馃敼 Best for multi-day trips: A cooler with at least 24-hour ice retention is recommended.
馃憠 Pairs well with: Best Portable Solar Chargers for keeping electronic devices powered.
1.3 Capacity & Storage
- Small (5-10L): Ideal for snacks and drinks.
- Medium (10-20L): Holds enough for an overnight trip.
- Large (20L+): Best for group trips but adds more weight.
馃敼 Best for solo hikers: A 10-15L backpacking cooler balances storage and portability.
馃憠 Pairs well with: Best Lightweight Camping Chairs for a relaxing meal break.
1.4 Waterproof & Leakproof Design
- Welded seams & waterproof zippers prevent leaks.
- Exterior water resistance helps in wet conditions.
- Mold-resistant linings ensure easy cleaning.
馃敼 Best for durability: Leakproof soft coolers prevent messy spills.
馃憠 Pairs well with: Best Waterproof Backpacks to protect other gear.
2. Best Backpacking Coolers for 2025
1. Best Overall: RTIC Soft Pack 12
- Capacity: 12 cans + ice
- Weight: 3 lbs
- Ice Retention: Up to 24 hours
- Why It鈥檚 Great:
- Lightweight yet highly insulated.
- Waterproof and leakproof design.
- Comfortable shoulder strap for easy carrying.
馃敼 Best for all-around use: Reliable cooling performance without excess weight.
馃憠 Pairs well with: Best Camping Stoves for fresh-cooked meals.
2. Best Budget Backpacking Cooler: TOURIT Soft Cooler Backpack
- Capacity: 16 cans + ice
- Weight: 1.5 lbs
- Ice Retention: 12-16 hours
- Why It鈥檚 Great:
- Affordable without sacrificing quality.
- Lightweight and comfortable to wear.
- Decent insulation for short trips.
馃敼 Best for budget-conscious hikers: A great option for day hikes and picnics.
馃憠 Pairs well with: Best Budget Camping Gear for a cost-effective outdoor setup.
3. Best Ultralight Cooler: IceMule Classic Small (10L)
- Capacity: 10L (6 cans + ice)
- Weight: 1.4 lbs
- Ice Retention: Up to 24 hours
- Why It鈥檚 Great:
- Roll-top design eliminates zippers and reduces bulk.
- Waterproof and buoyant鈥攇reat for kayaking too.
- Packs down small when not in use.
馃敼 Best for weight-conscious hikers: An ultralight option that still keeps things cold.
馃憠 Pairs well with: Best Lightweight Sleeping Bags for minimal pack weight.
4. Best Cooler Backpack: YETI Hopper M20 Backpack Cooler
- Capacity: 20 cans + ice
- Weight: 5.6 lbs
- Ice Retention: 36+ hours
- Why It鈥檚 Great:
- Tough, durable, and fully waterproof.
- Magnetic closure for easy access.
- Comfortable backpack-style carrying.
馃敼 Best for extended trips: High-end insulation for serious outdoor use.
馃憠 Pairs well with: Best Trekking Poles for extra support on long hikes.
5. Best Hybrid Soft Cooler: Hydro Flask 20L Day Escape Soft Cooler Pack
- Capacity: 20L
- Weight: 2.8 lbs
- Ice Retention: 36 hours
- Why It鈥檚 Great:
- Lightweight yet high-performing insulation.
- Backpack straps for easy carrying.
- Zipperless design prevents leaks.
馃敼 Best for day trips & weekend camping: Balances size, weight, and cooling power.
馃憠 Pairs well with: Best Camping Coffee Makers for fresh morning brews.
3. Comparison: Best Backpacking Coolers
| Cooler | Capacity | Weight | Ice Retention | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RTIC Soft Pack 12 | 12 cans + ice | 3 lbs | 24 hours | Best Overall |
| TOURIT Soft Cooler Backpack | 16 cans + ice | 1.5 lbs | 12-16 hours | Best Budget |
| IceMule Classic Small (10L) | 6 cans + ice | 1.4 lbs | 24 hours | Best Ultralight |
| YETI Hopper M20 Backpack Cooler | 20 cans + ice | 5.6 lbs | 36+ hours | Best Cooler Backpack |
| Hydro Flask 20L Soft Cooler Pack | 20L | 2.8 lbs | 36 hours | Best Hybrid |
馃敼 Best for ultralight adventures: IceMule Classic Small keeps weight low without sacrificing cooling.
4. How to Choose the Right Backpacking Cooler
1. Consider Your Trip Length
- Day hikes: A lightweight, small-capacity cooler is enough.
- Overnight camping: Look for 24+ hour ice retention.
- Multi-day backpacking: Choose a larger pack with high-performance insulation.
馃敼 Best for versatility: A 12-20L cooler works well for most trips.
2. Ice Retention vs. Weight
- For ultralight trips: Choose a soft, collapsible cooler.
- For keeping items cold longer: Opt for a cooler with thicker insulation.
- For balance: A soft backpack cooler with 24+ hour retention is ideal.
馃敼 Best for convenience: A hybrid soft cooler provides the best of both worlds.
馃憠 Pairs well with: Best Portable Water Filters to ensure clean drinking water.
Final Thoughts
A backpacking cooler is essential for keeping food fresh, storing cold drinks, and enhancing your outdoor experience while staying lightweight and portable.
- For ultralight hiking: IceMule Classic Small offers great insulation with minimal weight.
- For budget-conscious campers: TOURIT Soft Cooler Backpack is an affordable option.
- For high-performance cooling: YETI Hopper M20 is the best choice.
Looking for more gear recommendations? Check out our Best Backpacking Food Storage to complete your meal setup!
