10 Best Insulated Backpack Coolers 2025 in the United States

The YETI Hopper M12 Backpack Soft Sided Cooler stands out with its impressive ability to carry up to 20 cans of beverages or 12 pounds of ice, which speaks well for its capacity. The MAGSHIELD ACCESS feature ensures the cooler is ultra leak-resistant and easy to use, which is a significant advantage for users on the go.

Additionally, the COLDCELL INSULATION ensures that contents remain cold for extended periods, which is crucial for outdoor activities like camping and hiking. The DRYHIDE SHELL adds to the cooler’s durability, making it resistant to punctures and UV rays, a thoughtful inclusion for those who frequent rugged environments.

The kangaroo pocket adds convenience, allowing users to store small but essential items such as phones, keys, or wallets securely. However, the cooler's weight might be a downside for some, as it weighs over 3 kilograms, which could be cumbersome for long treks or when fully packed. Comfort and fit are essential for backpacks, and while the YETI M12 offers hands-free convenience, some users might find the dimensions (8 x 17 x 16 inches) bulky or challenging to fit their personal comfort. Despite these minor issues, the YETI Hopper M12 is an excellent choice for those who prioritize durability, insulation, and the convenience of hands-free carrying in their outdoor adventures.

The SPARTER Backpack Cooler is a solid choice for anyone needing a portable and efficient way to keep beverages cool for up to 20 hours. With a capacity of 30 cans (12 liters), it’s spacious enough for meals, drinks, and snacks, making it ideal for beach trips, camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities. The 8 mm foam insulation and advanced silver PEVA seal contribute to its impressive cooling retention.

However, while the liner is leak-proof, the zipper isn't, so you need to be cautious about tipping it over to avoid spills. The backpack is lightweight at only 1.13 pounds and made of high-density, scratch-resistant nylon with a waterproof PU coating, which enhances its durability. Comfort is addressed with padded shoulder straps and back, but the fit can vary depending on individual preferences.

Additional features include two insulated compartments for separating cool and dry items, multiple pockets for accessories, and a convenient beer opener. Despite its many strengths, users should note that it requires careful handling due to the non-leak-proof zipper. It's well-suited for those who need a versatile and easy-to-carry cooler for various outdoor adventures.

The YETI Hopper Flip 12 Portable Cooler is a robust option for those in need of a high-performance cooler. Its ColdCell Insulation is a standout feature, ensuring that contents remain cold longer compared to regular soft coolers. With a capacity to hold up to 12 cans plus ice, it offers ample storage for a day outing.

However, it’s not the lightest option at 3.1 pounds when empty, which might be a consideration for those planning to carry it over long distances. The high-density fabric and DryHide Shell contribute to its exceptional durability, making it resistant to punctures, abrasions, and UV rays. This makes it ideal for outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, or boating.

The 100% leakproof HydroLok Zipper is another notable feature, though it might be a bit stiff to operate initially. Comfort and fit seem lacking in the description, suggesting it may not be designed with extended carrying in mind. The YETI Hopper Flip 12 is best suited for users who prioritize superior insulation and durability in demanding outdoor conditions over lightweight portability.