Reviews You Can Rely On

The 8 Best Soft Coolers

We tested soft coolers head to head from brands like Yeti, Engel, REI, and more to find which will keep your refreshments cold best
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Best Soft Coolers
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Friday September 22, 2023

We've vetted, purchased, and tested over 30 soft coolers since 2017. Our most recent test compares 17 of the best models available today. Soft coolers offer portability and versatility that traditional hard coolers can't. From lunchboxes to beach days, we meticulously put these soft-shelled sidekicks through the paces, side-by-side, to discover which are the best insulators, the supremely rugged, and the sensationally portable. We fully loaded these coolers, walked with them for miles, and went through hundreds of pounds of ice. No matter your budget or needs, our exhaustive testing will help you identify the perfect cooler for you.

Need one of the best coolers for keeping ice for days on your next camping trip? We've got you covered. We also have recommendations for a plethora of other camping accessories. From the best camping stoves and top portable fire pits to the best camping tents and coziest and top-rated sleeping bags, we've got the scoop on the gear that's worth your money (and the stuff that isn't).

Editor's Note: We updated our soft cooler review on September 21st, 2023 to refine our insulation tests, test plan, and include several new coolers in our lineup.

Top 17 Product Ratings

Displaying 11 - 15 of 17
 
Awards   Top Pick Award   
Price $100 List
$104.99 at Amazon
$55 List
$54.95 at REI
$40 List
$35.99 at Amazon
$85 List
$84.95 at REI
$45 List
$44.99 at Amazon
Overall Score Sort Icon
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58
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56
Star Rating
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Pros Waterproof construction, good straps, watertight sealFlexible body is comfortable and convenient, folds flat, external pocket is large, easy to use, very lightweightPlenty of storage options, comfortable to carry, inexpensiveComfortable to carry, convenient design, good features, tons of dry storageSmall footprint, exterior storage, budget-friendly
Cons Decent insulation, awkward shape, durability concernsSmaller than expected, unimpressive insulationLacks durability, average insulation performance, not waterproofZipper not leakproof, thin insulation, less durable, loose sternum strapFlimsy material, not water resistant, poor insulation performance
Bottom Line It looks impressive but it doesn't quite live up to that expectationAn easily stored cooler that leaks readily but is comfortable and useful enough to be a good solution for casual and infrequent usageThis soft cooler is equipped with thoughtful storage options and comfortable straps, all while keeping your wallet happyThough not as hardy as some others, this design combines cooler space and dry storage for an all-in-one packThis budget-friendly backpack cooler is comfortable and convenient but doesn't hold up when it comes to insulation performance
Rating Categories RTIC SoftPak 20 REI Co-op Pack-Away 24 Maelstrom Backpack 35 REI Co-op Cool Trai... Arctic Zone Titan D...
Insulation (35%)
6.0
6.0
5.5
4.0
4.5
Convenience (20%)
5.1
8.2
6.0
7.2
7.3
Portability (20%)
7.1
3.3
5.4
6.8
7.2
Packability (15%)
5.0
6.5
8.5
8.3
6.0
Durability (10%)
9.1
7.0
3.6
3.6
2.5
Specs RTIC SoftPak 20 REI Co-op Pack-Away 24 Maelstrom Backpack 35 REI Co-op Cool Trai... Arctic Zone Titan D...
Measured Capacity in Cans 24 cans 44 cans 36 cans 16 cans 22 cans
Manufacturer Claimed Capacity in Cans 20 cans 24 cans 35 cans 12 cans 24 cans
Measured Capacity 13.1 L 27.6 L 20.0 L 10.4 L 10.8 L
Carry Style Lunchbox Pack Pack Pack Pack
Food Shelf Life (Measured Days Below 40ºF) 2.0 2.1 1.8 1.4 1.5
Cold Beverages (Measured Days Below 50ºF) 2.1 2.3 2.0 1.5 1.7
Can a standard sized wine bottle fit? Yes, Yes Yes Yes, but it causes the liner to deform Yes
Available in Different Sizes? Yes No No No No
Measured Weight 3.1 Ibs 1.5 lbs 2.4 lbs 2.6 Ibs 5.0 lb
Exterior Fabric Vinyl Recycled polyester shell and abrasion-resistant recycled nylon bottom High-density insulation material Recycled ripstop nylon Polyester
Closure Method Zipper Zipper Zipper Zipper Zipper
Additional Storage No Yes Yes Yes Yes


Best Overall Soft Cooler


AO Coolers 24 Pack Canvas Cooler


69
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Insulation 7.0
  • Convenience 7.0
  • Portability 6.1
  • Packability 8.0
  • Durability 5.9
Closure Type: Zipper | Weight: 2.7 lb
REASONS TO BUY
Simple design that's easy to use
Decent insulation
Duffel style handles
Folds flat for storage
REASONS TO AVOID
Zipper and exterior are not waterproof
Shoulder strap on the short side

At first glance, the AO Coolers 24 Pack Canvas Cooler may not look like much. It doesn't have the snazzy laminated exterior and waterproof zipper that so many others boast. Yet underneath this unassuming exterior is a great soft cooler that's simple to use and easy to love. The thick foam surrounding the entirety of your contents provides reliable insulation for an above-average amount of time. A single long opening makes it uncomplicated to load and easy to search. On the outside, a large zippered pocket provides a good amount of dry storage, and its duffel-style handles can be joined together for easy transportation. Its flexible shape allows you to fold it flat for storage (a unique feature that most of the competition can't claim) and easily accommodates tall objects, such as 750 ml wine bottles.

The AO loses some points since its exterior and zipper are not waterproof, though the regular zipper is much easier to use than waterproof ones, which typically require a lot more tugging. And though its hull isn't as stiff and impenetrable as some of the others we tested, it's still pretty strong and well-constructed. We also wish the shoulder strap was longer for cross-body wear. Lastly, this model lacks the high-end look of the more premium models in our test, but that may not matter to you. These drawbacks are minor. All in all, this cooler performs well above its price tag and offers a strong value. If you're looking for a model with a waterproof zipper, check out the Yeti Hopper Flip 18.

Read more: AO Coolers 24 Pack Canvas Cooler review

The AO also includes a longer strap for carrying longer distances.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Best Premium Soft Cooler


Engel HD30


74
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Insulation 8.5
  • Convenience 5.7
  • Portability 7.4
  • Packability 6.0
  • Durability 9.0
Closure Type: Leakproof zipper | Weight: 5.9 lb
REASONS TO BUY
Extremely durable
Top-notch insulation
Handy handles and features
Comfy shoulder carry
REASONS TO AVOID
Exterior pocket not waterproof
Quite large

We are continually impressed by the Engel HD30. In our lab tests, it provides top-notch insulation, keeping raw foods appropriately cold (below 40 degrees Fahrenheit) for three days. While many soft coolers have bulky zippers that are difficult to use or narrow openings that hinder access, the Engel is remarkably easy to use. With corners that unclip, the top conveniently opens further to allow quick loading and locating of contents. On top of that, this is one of the largest coolers we tested, fitting an impressive 48 cans, making it a solid contender to guard your food and drink for a long weekend of camping. Despite its bulky size, the Engel is more portable than we expected, featuring an easy two-person carry using the end handles. After many years, its durable construction has proven worth the investment, with consistent performance, unchanged over time, and even looking like we bought it last week.

Of course, large capacity always comes with a trade-off in how far you're willing to carry it. Even with a friend to help, this fully loaded bag isn't the ideal cooler to cart a mile down the beach. But with all sorts of additional helpful features like extra handles, a removable bottle opener, and an additional pocket, the Engel continues to outcompete even the newest models for yet another year, remaining our favorite soft cooler. It may not be cheap, but it is impressive. But, if you want good performance that isn't hard on your wallet, the AO Coolers 24 Pack Canvas Cooler would be a better option.

Read more: Engel Coolers HD30 review

The Engel HD30 comes with a welded waterproof zipper.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Best Soft Cooler on a Budget


Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze 30


65
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Insulation 6.0
  • Convenience 8.6
  • Portability 7.2
  • Packability 6.5
  • Durability 2.9
Closure Type: Fold-over Lid | Weight: 3.6 lbs
REASONS TO BUY
No zippers
Comfortable
Inexpensive
REASONS TO AVOID
Leaky lid
Not durable
Mediocre insulation performance

The Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze 30 offers great utility for a steal. Despite having some of the thinnest insulation of any model we tested, it maintained recommended food temperatures for a little over two days, which was right around the group average. The zipperless design for the main compartment makes it completely painless to use, and the hard plastic interior makes it simple to pack. A removable plastic shelf adds functionality, keeping sensitive items out of melted ice, and numerous pockets adorn the outside for wine corkscrews, napkins, and silverware. It even comes with a bottle opener clipped to one end.

The low price tag does come at the cost of some durability, though. This is not the model we would expect to last the longest, as its materials and craftsmanship are not top-tier. The additional features also ride the line between being handy and excessive. The shelf is easy to knock loose and fall into the main chamber, and the bottle opener is not the best. This isn't the model we recommend for hardcore use, but if you simply need a small cooler for occasional use and want to spend the least, this model offers a lot of value. Another small model that is great for special occasions is the caddy-style RovR KeepR cooler, which is great for parties and picnics.

Read more: Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze 30 review

The zipperless Arctic Zone opens up without much trouble for easy access to its chilly contents.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Best Backpack Cooler


RTIC Backpack 30


64
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Insulation 7.0
  • Convenience 4.1
  • Portability 8.1
  • Packability 4.5
  • Durability 8.7
Closure Type: Leakproof Zipper | Weight: 5.0 lbs
REASONS TO BUY
Ease of transport
Great capacity
Floats
Waterproof
REASONS TO AVOID
Large footprint
Bottom-side pressure points

Whether you're headed to the beach or carrying in some treats for your journey, the RTIC Backpack 30 is comfortable and easy to transport. Its thick shoulder straps and cushiony back pads create a pleasant experience transporting the cooler from place to place. Meanwhile, your hands stay free to hold your other essentials. The bag boasts a large capacity, capable of carrying up to 42 cans. It also has no trouble keeping its contents below the FDA-recommended 40 degrees Fahrenheit for over two days. If your plans take you to the water, this cooler is completely waterproof and floats well. This is thanks to its watertight zipper and durable exterior. We were impressed with this cooler's ability to handle just about every task we sent its way, all while maintaining the ability to be taken almost anywhere.

The RTIC Backpack has a large internal capacity, and as a result, makes the rest of the bag rather large. The footprint of the pack can feel rather bulky, especially if you're packing only a few snacks. Additionally, the backpack caused some minor discomfort on the hips. When packed full of heavy goodies, it creates a pressure point on the bottom. Despite these minor complaints, the RTIC did an excellent job throughout all of our tests, and its comfortable backpack straps are hard to beat. If you're looking for a less expensive backpack style cooler, the Maelstrom Backpack 35 is nearly half the price of the RTIC.

Read more: RTIC Backpack 30 review

The RTIC Backpack has a large capacity, capable of tackling whatever weekend journey you're venturing out on.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Best Multi-use Backpack


Maelstrom Backpack 35


58
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Insulation 5.5
  • Convenience 6.0
  • Portability 5.4
  • Packability 8.5
  • Durability 3.6
Closure Type: Zipper | Weight: 2.4 lbs
REASONS TO BUY
Plenty of storage
Inexpensive
Comfortable
REASONS TO AVOID
Not durable
Not water resistant
Mediocre insulation

Another great backpack-style cooler is the Maelstrom 35. This lightweight bag resembles a traditional backpack, with plenty of pockets and mesh bottle holders. However, when you open the main zip, you'll find one large insulated compartment for all the best goodies. The cooler is large enough to hold a wine bottle inside or outside in the mesh pockets. With comfortable straps and plenty of storage, there's not much you can't do with this bag. Take all your favorite goodies to the lake, pack up for a barbeque, or carry a lunch to the zoo. The exterior pockets provide ample space for cutlery, keys, a wallet, and a phone. Additionally, a bungee can hold onto a beach towel or jacket, and the daisy chains can clip on extra gear.

The Maelstrom is an excellent budget-friendly option. However, it's not the most durable, and its insulation performance is lacking. Though we didn't see any major issues throughout our tests, we found the attachment points and zippers to be on the weaker side. It also lasted just under two days in our insulation tests. With this in mind, the bag isn't waterproof, and the zipper tends to leak. During our cleaning test, we had a bit of trouble with this backpack. The soft internal material tends to get soggy and needs extra time to dry out. All things considered, the bag is fairly inexpensive, so if you're only needing the occasional soft cooler, this will do the trick.

Read more: Maelstrom Backpack 35 review

Like a traditional backpack, the Maelstrom 35 has plenty of pockets for extra goodies or daily essentials.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Best Drybag Cooler


IceMule Pro 33


62
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Insulation 7.0
  • Convenience 6.5
  • Portability 5.7
  • Packability 3.0
  • Durability 8.7
Closure Type: Roll-top | Weight: 3.6 lbs
REASONS TO BUY
Floats in water
Waterproof exterior
Decent insulation performance
REASONS TO AVOID
Rubs against bare skin
No waist belt

With many exciting drybag coolers now on the scene, the IceMule Pro 33 handily holds its own among the rest. It proves itself incredibly easy to use and comfortable to carry. The large roll-top design allows easy access to its contents, so you won't have to remove everything on top to reach that last cold soda at the bottom. Best of all, this cooler is waterproof and floats. Toss this on the kayak or paddleboard, or tug it along on your next float trip. Regardless, if it topples overboard, you can rest assured it won't get soaked or sink. It also performs quite well among backpack models in our insulation testing and is solidly durable.

With a lightly padded back panel, breathable mesh, and a more flexible structure, we had no trouble transporting this cooler around. However, if you're wearing a swimsuit, it tends to rub against bare skin. It's important to get enough rolls in when using this pack. With just one or two, the bag will not be leakproof. That said, the more you roll, the less internal capacity available. When fully loaded with a whopping 39 cans, we wish we had a waist belt to take some weight off our shoulders. But for lighter loads, wearing the IceMule is like carrying a small backpack. While we wish it had more pockets on the outside for extra items, we enjoy using the IceMule Pro, and it is our go-to choice for bringing a few refreshments along for a multi-mile hike or for any destination a little further from the parking lot.

Read more: IceMule Pro 33 review

The more rolls, the more tightly sealed the IceMule will be when coming into contact with water.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Best Large Capacity Cooler


RovR TravelR 30


78
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Insulation 9.0
  • Convenience 7.2
  • Portability 5.9
  • Packability 7.0
  • Durability 9.4
Closure Type: Leakproof zipper | Weight: 3.6 lb
REASONS TO BUY
Water resistant
Great insulation
Large internal space
REASONS TO AVOID
Awkward to carry
Bulky
Pricey

The RovR TravelR 30 is the right size to keep up with those larger pack days. This rugged cooler can hold up to 39 cans and keeps them below 40 degrees Fahrenheit for just over three days. Perfect for the boat, the TravelR has a watertight zipper and is floatable. Likewise, it's equipped with carry handles, a padded shoulder strap, and daisy chain clip points for extra gear. We appreciate the wide lid that stays open during loading, and its large size can tackle all those odd-shaped food items or wine bottles.

This rigid cooler doesn't fold down, and its footprint is rather large. So, you won't be able to easily store this in tight spaces. That said, with a full load of groceries, its bulky size can be awkward to carry. Based on its size, we wouldn't want to carry the TravelR for long distances. It's also on the pricier side. However, its overall durability and insulation performance make it an option that can be relied on for years.

Read more: RovR TravelR 30 review

The RovR TravelR has a massive capacity and impressive insulation performance.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Best Caddy Cooler


RovR KeepR


63
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Insulation 8.0
  • Convenience 7.8
  • Portability 3.1
  • Packability 4.5
  • Durability 6.3
Closure Type: N/A- open-top | Weight: 5.2 lbs
REASONS TO BUY
Easy access
Great insulation
Durable build
REASONS TO AVOID
Exposed to elements
Uncomfortable to carry

The RovR KeepR manages to excel in just about every way, all while not having a closure system. The top of this caddy is completely wide-open for easy access. Yet, it still managed to do excellent in our insulation trials. This is due to its center ice holder, which closely resembles a hotel room ice box. This caddy is ideal for situations where quick access is preferred, like the kid's soccer game or a backyard barbeque. With four storage compartments, you can create a fun party tray, with snacks in one and drinks in the others. It's also built with rugged materials, so you can trust that a few drops won't cause much damage, though you might lose a snack or two.

Because it has no top, the KeepR is limited in what you can do with it. It's not great for carrying long distances as it only has carrying handles, and you risk losing the contents. That being said, it wouldn't be the best idea to take this along a river trip or anywhere it could get tumbled around. If you're looking for a party snacker with easy access, the RovR KeepR is the way to go.

Read more: RovR KeepR review

The RovR KeepR packs up to create an easy-access drink station or snack-platter, with the cool temperatures coming from the center ice chest.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Compare Products

select up to 5 products to compare
Score Product Price
78
RovR TravelR 30
Best Large Capacity Cooler
$300
Top Pick Award
74
Engel HD30
Best Premium Soft Cooler
$240
Editors' Choice Award
71
Yeti Hopper Flip 18
$300
69
AO Coolers 24 Pack Canvas Cooler
Best Overall Soft Cooler
$86
Editors' Choice Award
66
Engel Roll Top BP25 Backpack
$220
65
Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze 30
Best Soft Cooler on a Budget
$63
Best Buy Award
65
RTIC Soft Pack 30
$120
64
RTIC Backpack 30
Best Backpack Cooler
$180
Top Pick Award
63
RovR KeepR
Best Caddy Cooler
$175
Top Pick Award
62
IceMule Pro 33
Best Drybag Cooler
$145
Top Pick Award
62
RTIC SoftPak 20
$100
61
REI Co-op Pack-Away 24
$55
58
Maelstrom Backpack 35
Best Multi-use Backpack
$40
Top Pick Award
58
REI Co-op Cool Trail Split Pack
$85
56
Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze 24 Backpack
$45
56
Hydro Flask Insulated 20
$65
55
IceMule Classic 15
$85

soft cooler - we packed up each cooler with lots of goodies, then transported them...
We packed up each cooler with lots of goodies, then transported them around town and out to the beach to see which ones held up the best.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Why You Should Trust Us


Before we started timing how long our drinks stayed cold, this review began with market research into which soft coolers are even worth testing. Every year, the number of impressive-looking soft coolers grows, and we've been expanding our selection of test-worthy models since 2017. Testing consists of a quantitative ice melt test and extensive field use. The ice melt test was carried out in a controlled environment with the internal temperature of the coolers monitored and analyzed in accordance with the USDA's Refrigeration and Food Safety Guidelines. Field use takes place in various environments, from hot desert hikes to road trips from muggy Minnesota to sunny California, for a well-rounded set of conditions. All this adds up to a comprehensive review, which will thoroughly equip you to make a well-suited soft cooler purchase.

Our testing of soft coolers is divided between five rating metrics:
  • Insulation (35% of total score weighting)
  • Convenience (20% weighting)
  • Portability (20% weighting)
  • Packability (15% weighting)
  • Durability (10% weighting)

Our expert panel consists of Maggie Nichols, Genaveve Bradshaw, and Becca Glades. Maggie is the GearLab cooler guru and has been testing coolers and other gear since 2017, personally having tested over 60 different coolers, from traditional ice boxes to the latest and best powered coolers. Gena is a full-time explorer. Whether it be setting off on a trip in her van or hanging out by the crag, she always has a cooler full of goodies to keep her company. Rebecca's STEM background helps her bring an analytical mindset to the table, along with a passion for finding the best gear out there. Together, this team searched far and wide to find the best soft coolers available on the market.

Part of our tests was inspecting all clip points and connections...
Part of our tests was inspecting all clip points and connections, looking for any weak points and potential problems.
We tested to see how much each bag, like the Hydro Flask Insulated...
We tested to see how much each bag, like the Hydro Flask Insulated, could reasonably hold.
We took these coolers out into the real world to see how well they...
We took these coolers out into the real world to see how well they hold up to the daily rigors.

Analysis and Test Results


Each contender's overall score is carefully calculated through a myriad of tests spanning four crucial, mutually exclusive metrics. In order to discover the best cooler for every use, we broke down our testing into specific individual and comparative assessments of every model's Insulation Value, Ease of Use, Portability, and Durability. All four of these metrics include numerous tests and evaluations that inform each cooler's score in that metric. We weighted each metric according to its overall importance to the general experience of using a soft cooler. When the metrics' scores are totaled up, each cooler ends up with a score between 1 and 100. Here we break down those metrics individually and discuss the best performers across individual tests and full metric scores

soft cooler - all coolers packed full of ice and cans, heading into our hot room...
All coolers packed full of ice and cans, heading into our hot room for insulation testing.
Credit: Maggie Nichols


Value


When it comes to performance in soft coolers, you often get what you pay for in terms of durability and insulation value. Some of the most expensive products we tested offer some of the most impressive insulation powers and are made of impressively durable materials. However, this category continues to explode with innovations at competitive prices, and the correlation of price to performance is not a perfect linear relationship. Several models we tested challenge the idea that more money equals a better cooler, offering exceptional values and some impressive niche performances.

The AO 24 Pack is a functional and well-priced cooler. Though not completely waterproof, we still find ourselves reaching for its straightforward functionality and above-average insulation time and time again. The most inexpensive cooler we generally recommend is the Arctic Zone Titan. It's surprisingly easy to use and handy for infrequent use at a bargain price.

soft cooler - maggie and her dog, madeline, hard at work testing coolers in the...
Maggie and her dog, Madeline, hard at work testing coolers in the summer sun.
Credit: Maggie Brandenburg

Insulation


The FDA recommends keeping perishable foods that require refrigeration at or below 40º Fahrenheit; this helps prolong their freshness by slowing down the bacteria and other such nasties from growing inside. Keeping a larger cooler cold will require putting more ice or ice packs inside versus keeping a smaller cooler cold, as most coolers recommend at least a 1:1 ice-to-food ratio, if not even more ice. Making sure your items are cold before they go into the cooler is another way to add insulation value to any cooler. Keeping your food or beverages cold is the number one reason to purchase a cooler; thus, it is the most rigorous metric in our testing. Our head-to-head hot room insulation tests highlight which coolers provide the greatest insulation value.


We noted two critical temperature thresholds during our testing: 40º F and 50º F. While 40º Fahrenheit is the food-safe threshold recommended by the FDA, 50º F represents the average ideal max temperature for serving beer. Of course, the ideal beer-drinking temperature depends on the beer you enjoy and your preference. The American Homebrewers Association provides the optimal beer serving temperatures. We chose 50º F as the maximum beer serving temperature and as a second benchmark temperature to easily grasp the rate of temperature increase as the ice melts in each cooler.

soft cooler - insulation results for our entire soft cooler lineup.
Insulation results for our entire soft cooler lineup.
Credit: Genaveve Bradshaw

soft cooler - this chart compares the award-winning coolers in our line-up.
This chart compares the award-winning coolers in our line-up.
Credit: Genaveve Bradshaw

Lasting the overall longest in our tests is the RovR TravlR 30. This impressive soft cooler stays under the FDA recommended 40 degrees Fahrenheit for 74 hours. And, for optimal beer temperature, it lasted nearly 82 hours. That's just over three days long. Finishing just behind, the Engel HD30 also performed admirably in our intensive hot-room challenge, lasting a full 73 hours below 40 degrees. The Engel then continued to maintain an internal temperature sub 50 degrees for 79 hours.

soft cooler - insulation results for large capacity coolers.
Insulation results for large capacity coolers.
Credit: Genaveve Bradshaw

soft cooler - insulation results for small capacity coolers.
Insulation results for small capacity coolers.
Credit: Genaveve Bradshaw

Among the smaller coolers, the Yeti Hopper Flip 18 and RovR KeepR are top performers. Boasting a waterproof exterior and leakproof zipper, the Flip kept temperatures below 40 degrees F for two and a half days. It maintained sub-50 degree temps for just a little longer. Despite not having a lid whatsoever, the RovR KeepR did exceptionally well holding its chilly temperatures. Staying cold by its center ice bucket, it lasted almost 70 hours, or about three days, below 40 degrees. Likewise, it kept temps below 50 degrees for about 77 hours.

soft cooler - the yeti flip is an overall exceptional performer, but it comes at a...
The Yeti Flip is an overall exceptional performer, but it comes at a hefty price.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Among backpack models, the RTIC Backpack 30 and the Engel Roll Top BP25 Backpack reign supreme. Much like other RTIC models, the Backpack Cooler 30 is made from heavy-duty materials, including a watertight zipper. This handy pack stayed under 40 degrees for 60 hours and 67 hours under 50 degrees. The Engel BP25 follows close behind, only differing in the 50 degree test, lasting 64 hours. Rather than a zip top, the BP25 has a roll top, resembling a dry bag.

soft cooler - insulation results for backpack style coolers.
Insulation results for backpack style coolers.
Credit: Genaveve Bradshaw

soft cooler - insulation results for tote and lunchbox style coolers.
Insulation results for tote and lunchbox style coolers.
Credit: Genaveve Bradshaw

As soft-sided coolers have become increasingly popular, the market has become more and more innovative. At one time, the presence of an airtight zipper and waterproof exterior indicated solid insulation. Now, various closure solutions continue to impress us with their ability to keep things chilled. Models with the now old-school approach of having a water/airproof zipper include the Engel HD30, RTIC SoftPak, RovR TravlR 30, and Yeti Hopper Flip. The IceMule Pro 33 has a roll-top (like a dry bag).

soft cooler - insulation test results at a glance
Insulation test results at a glance
Credit: Genaveve Bradshaw

In an interesting twist, the Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze has neither a zipper nor a roll-top — it's not even fully sealed. It closes like an old-school hard cooler, with a plastic lid that nestles snugly into the top of its plastic body. It's lined on the outside by a thinly insulated fabric bag. Despite not being airtight or leakproof, it managed to hold ice for 40 hours during our testing. Other coolers have more traditional zippers that aren't watertight yet still provide effective insulation, like the RTIC Backpack, REI Pack Away, and AO 24 Pack.

soft cooler - the arctic zone titan deep freeze has a zipperless lid, so don't let...
The Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze has a zipperless lid, so don't let it tip over!
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Convenience


To evaluate this metric, we focused on how easy the coolers are to load and unload, how they open, how challenging the zipper or closing mechanism is, and if they stay open while you pack them full or require a second pair of hands. We also looked at the features each came with and evaluated their actual usability. We discovered that just because a bottle opener is clipped onto the end doesn't mean it will reliably open bottles. Finally, we wiped down the interior to see how easy it was to clean each cooler.


One of the most frustrating qualities of many models we tested is their challenging zippers. So far, manufacturers haven't been able to produce a zipper that's waterproof and easy to use. Many soft cooler zippers not only require two hands to open and close but also quite a bit of straining and muttering through clenched teeth. However, some are easier than others, like the Engel HD and RovR TravlR.

Though robust and watertight, its zipper is much easier to use and comes with zipper lubricant, helping it remain explicative-free. The Yeti Flip and the RTIC SoftPak also come standard with zipper lubricant that helps their zippers glide more easily, though they aren't as smooth as the Engel. Lubricant needs to be reapplied to zippers frequently, especially in dry, hot outdoor environments.

soft cooler - the roll-top design of the icemule is pretty easy to use - no zipper...
The roll-top design of the IceMule is pretty easy to use - no zipper lubricant required.
Credit: Maggie Nichols

Some other models are easy to use because of their excellent design or features. The Hydro Flask Insulated 20 is one of our favorites thanks to its simple tote-style design and quick internal cleaning. Pack it full, zip it up, and you're all set. Additionally, it packs down flat, not taking up much space when not in use. The REI Trail Pack is one of our favorites for fully loaded distance missions, offering all the comfort of a backpacking backpack with its perfectly padded weight-bearing waistbelt.

The Trail Split, Pack Away, AO 24 Pack, and the Maelstrom Backpack 35 all have traditional, user-friendly zippers and just the right amount of handy design elements and features. The AO and REI Pack Away are as easy to use as a simple duffel bag. The AO 24 features clips on the ends of the top zipper and a single long external pocket with plenty of space to bring along dry items and your favorite binoculars. The Pack Away adds to this design with four 3-loop daisy chains located around the body of the bag, and the ability to fold flat — adding capacity and making it easier to store when not in use. Meanwhile, the Maelstrom and the Trail Split have a traditional backpack style that's easy to get in and out of.

soft cooler - the pack-away can either be carried as a tote or a cube. plus, it...
The Pack-Away can either be carried as a tote or a cube. Plus, it has a handy front pocket.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Many of these coolers have handy features that add to their overall convenience. Both the Engle Roll Top and Arctic Zone Titan Zipperless come with bottle openers on the outsides of the bag, though we struggled to effectively use the one on the Titan. The Engel and IceMule include air valves, which help eliminate excess warm air within the bag. Additionally, a handful of these float in water, so you can tug them along on your next river day. These include the RTIC models, IceMule drybags, and the Yeti Flip.

soft cooler - the icemule includes an air valve.
The IceMule includes an air valve.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Portability


Depending on the amount of perishables you plan to take with you and how far you're going, you may have already put some limitations on your adventures. Without considering overall capacity, the most portable coolers will be more comfortable to carry for longer distances.


The clear winners in this class are the backpack-style coolers, as the weight distribution across both shoulders and resting behind you will almost always beat out a unilateral carry. However, not all backpack coolers are equally comfortable. We've tested several of these styles, and the RTIC Backpack 30 is hands down our favorite for sheer carrying comfort. The Engel HD also did well in this metric. It features padded carry handles and a comfy over-the-shoulder sling. The bag felt surprisingly secure, with no contents jostling around.

soft cooler - with its thick padded waist strap, the rtic backpack is a bit easier...
With its thick padded waist strap, the RTIC Backpack is a bit easier to manage, especially when it's packed full.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

The REI Trail Pack is another noteworthy competitor here. By adding a fully supportive, weight-bearing waist belt, this cooler is ideal for relieving your shoulders when you need your cooler filled to the brim with delicious picnic provisions. While the IceMule is our favorite for smaller and medium loads because of its comfortable straps and flexible body, the Trail Pack is our go-to choice for heavy cargo. It's comfortable like a daypack and saves your shoulders over the long haul. If you're planning to bring a handful of snacks and beverages for you and a few buddies, the comfort of the IceMule is top-notch. If you're hoping to supply an afternoon picnic full of refreshments for everyone in your party, the Trail Pack will handle the extra weight better.

Having both long and short straps helps immensely with portability.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Among the many tote and messenger style options we tested, we have our favorites. Models with flexible shapes, adjustable straps, and extra padding go a long way toward making these something you don't mind carrying. Some of the other reasonably portable bags, like the Yeti Flip, scored well thanks to their well-padded shoulder straps and additional options to hand carry or partner carry them when they're loaded down. The RTIC Soft Pack is also a favorite, with its soft, malleable body and long padded shoulder strap that makes it far more pleasant across your body when weighed down. The softer canvas exteriors and flexible insulated walls of the AO 24 Pack and REI Pack Away are much more comfortable bouncing against our sides and feel like a duffel bag.

soft cooler - the ao 24 pack has a padded shoulder strap and malleable exterior...
The AO 24 Pack has a padded shoulder strap and malleable exterior that make it more comfortable to carry.
Credit: Maggie Brandenburg

Packability


To test these soft coolers' packability, we headed out to trails, picnics, and backyard barbeques to see which were the easiest to get around. We considered how adaptable each cooler is to different sizes and shapes of contents: can it fit a carton of eggs for a breakfast cookout or a bottle of chilled Pinot Grigio for that fancy picnic? All of these coolers feature extra handles for additional carrying options, tie-downs to attach them to your ATV or truck bed, and even some extra features like daisy-chain webbing to clip on your bottle opener or car keys.


The Maelstrom packs a punch when it comes to this metric. It has pockets galore, with the main cooler compartment, two mesh bottle sleeves, and multiple zipper pockets. With this many options, you can easily pack up for a picnic, cutlery included. We specifically appreciated the hidden zipper pouch along the backside of the pack that could stealthily fit your phone or keys.

soft cooler - the maelstrom has plenty of pockets, including a discreet back panel...
The Maelstrom has plenty of pockets, including a discreet back panel pouch.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

The REI Split Pack also earns high marks here. The top half of the bag is a normal non-insulated pocket that can be used for hiking layers or cutlery. The bottom half of the bag is the cooler. The cooler itself can hold 16 cans and can even pack in a wine bottle, though it does cause the pack to bend a bit. It's worth noting that all coolers in our lineup can hold a wine bottle.

soft cooler - the lower half of the rei co-op trail split is a removable cooler.
The lower half of the REI Co-op Trail Split is a removable cooler.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Among the easiest to pack are the AO and RovR Travelr. Both open nicely, allowing easy loading. Likewise, they each have excellent internal capacity, with the RovR fitting 39 cans and the AO 36. The REI Pack Away and Arctic Zone Deep Freeze 30 also impressed us with their storage features and capacity. The Pack Away has gear hooks scattered throughout the pack, so there is no need to ditch the travel mug or bottle opener at home. The Deep Freeze holds up to 30 cans, and its ribbed inside helps keep them settled in place. Additionally, it has stretchy mesh side pockets and a bungee cord for holding a blanket or jacket.

soft cooler - the rovr travelr has tons of space to pack up goodies for the entire...
The RovR TravelR has tons of space to pack up goodies for the entire family.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Carrying 22 cans, the Arctic Zone Deep Freeze 24 Backpack is a smaller cooler that still manages to pack a ton. This is thanks to its stretchy side pockets, top flap zipper pocket, and bungee. It's also able to fit a wine bottle inside or within one of the external side pockets. The Engel HD30 and RTIC Soft Pack include small low-profile pockets great for keys or a phone. The HD30 is the largest in our lineup and will fit just about any odd-shaped food item you could take on your picnic. The Soft Pack features a wide lid that stays wide open for easy packing of all those refrigerated goodies.

soft cooler - though on the smaller side, the deep freeze 24 packs enough for a...
Though on the smaller side, the Deep Freeze 24 packs enough for a quick day trip.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Durability


When we spend money on gear, we want it to last. This fact is just as true for coolers as anything else. Any gear's durability comes down to a few simple factors—the quality of its materials and components, the method of construction, and the overall design. The coolers we tested feature a wide variety and quality of materials. We assessed durability over months of use, paying attention to how they handle daily rigors. We threw them around, dropped them on the ground, and filled them to the brim with heavy drinks. We also packed, emptied, repacked, and bounced them around in back seats and truck beds, left them out in the sun for hours, strapped them into water-logged boats, and anything else we could think of.


The models that scored lower in our durability tests use light to mid-weight nylon or canvas with middle-of-the-road zippers and regular seam construction. The higher-end models feature heavy rubber or treated nylon, have heavy-duty zippers and components, reinforced and welded seams, and more robust designs and construction. All of these aspects affect the overall durability and lasting power.

soft cooler - some seriously sturdy construction means that soft coolers can be...
Some seriously sturdy construction means that soft coolers can be just as durable as their harder counterparts.
Credit: Maggie Brandenburg

The most durable coolers we tested are the RTIC Soft Pack, RovR TravelR, and Yeti Flip. These models feature incredibly tough, wear-resistant outer fabric, durable components, sturdy zippers, reinforced stitching, and a design made to be used and abused. Even after several years of regular use, they work just as well as when they were new and still look nearly as nice. Each of these were bone dry after hours of soaking in water.

soft cooler - the rtic softpack includes a padded, thick shoulder strap that helps...
The RTIC Softpack includes a padded, thick shoulder strap that helps lighten the load.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Both Engel models scored well in our durability tests. They each have a thick, waterproof exterior that can handle being tumbled around. These models also feature a protective layer on their undersides to help prevent holes and abrasions. Additionally, both Engels were dry inside after our submersion test, indicating they have watertight zippers.

soft cooler - the engel backpack has a unique roll top as opposed to the...
The Engel Backpack has a unique roll top as opposed to the traditional zipper.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

The IceMule Classic and IceMule Pro 33 were both relatively durable and resistant to our abuse, though the straps' attachment points seemed perhaps not quite as reliable or as robust as we'd like them to be. These dry bag coolers did great in our submersion tests, and they float, making these a great option to take along on the kayak.

soft cooler - the icemule pro 33 is durable and sturdy, thanks to its thick...
The IceMule Pro 33 is durable and sturdy, thanks to its thick exterior.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Conclusion


While reviewing these products, we went out of our way to imagine the many ways in which they may be used. Then we put them to the test, toting them along for summer trips into the desert, long hikes on hot days, picnics in the park, sunny beach days, rainy camping weekends, and impromptu BBQs and dinner parties. We hauled these coolers around, putting them through plenty of use and abuse, and we've compiled what we believe is the most comprehensive review of soft coolers available. We hope that the information presented here helps you find the right cooler to fit your lifestyle.

Genaveve Bradshaw, Rebecca Glades, and Maggie Nichols