Weindependently evaluateall of our recommendations.
If you punch links we provide, we may receive compensation.
These reliable cooler bags keep things chill on the go.
Credit:Travel + Leisure
We tested all of the picks below out in the real world or in our in-house lab.
Either way, weve ensured the cooler is up to snuff and ready to stuff.
The ice retention is variable depending on the weather.
Credit: Amazon
One qualm was that the temperature retention wasnt consistent.
That said, were confident it could do the job on a day trip.
Overall, the Day Escapes performance is outstanding, even after three months of real-world use.
Credit: Travel + Leisure
It disappointed us during our durability tests.
However, no other damage was present, and we think this backpack performs admirably in most everyday scenarios.
The price is investment-level high.
This 12-can cooler lives up to the Yeti name and gave us impeccable ice and temperature retention.
Did we mention the heavy-duty, mildew-resistant over shell is not only durable but also blocks UV rays?
The price is hefty, but consider it an investment, because this baby will last.
It can feel cumbersome when full and carried on the shoulder for long periods.
The thick, heavy-duty nylon exterior is highly durable and escaped our toss tests and beatings with minor scuffs.
Any sand, mud, or dirt easily just rinses off.
Yes, the leakproof zippers are tight, but they kept the cooler leakproof during our upside-down shake test.
Want to take this coolerinthe water?
After three months of real-world testing, it still looks and feels brand-new.
It doesn’t have a lot of structure.
With nothing else, this ultra-portable cooler can carry around 12 cans.
Cooler space is limited.
This insulated cooler backpack works perfectly for day trips where youll want to store both dry and chilled items.
(Note: more cans can be stored in the main compartment, but its not insulated.)
We think its a go-to bag for bringing lunch to work.
Having the overall design of a regular backpack worked in our favor regarding features, too.
We also love how the bags extra padding made it very comfortable to wear, even when full.
There are no exterior pockets or storage compartments.
When youre not using the cooler, it conveniently flattens down for easy transport and storage.
It’s not watertight and the bag strap can be uncomfortable if the cooler is filled up.
It also features supplemental pockets great for storing smaller belongings.
Credit: Amazon
We think it’s an excellent bag for transporting just a few items at a time.
The wheels only work well on hard surfaces like concrete or asphalt.
If you’re a fan of day trips, consider this 15-liter cooler from dbest Products.
Credit: Travel + Leisure
Because of this, the cooler tends to glide better on hard surfaces such as concrete or asphalt.
While the following presented a few concerns, it might still be a good option for the right user.
While the detachablewheeled trolleycan be extremely convenient, we found it difficult to use over bumpy terrains.
Our Testing Process
These products were evaluated as part of two different cooler testing processes.
Allbackpack-style coolersthat made the list were tested in our very own in-house testing lab.
After two hours, backpacks were placed on their side for five minutes and inspected for leakage.
Non-backpack coolers were tested out in the real world on multiple outings.
Environments included grocery shopping,picnics, beach days, and festivals.
Coolers were filled with beverages plus ice.
After 2.5 hours, we recorded the ice retention and the temperature of the drinks.
Durability was tested by tossing the cooler down the stairs (twice!)
and slamming it on a hard floor surface before checking for any damage or wear.
Think about what youll want to pack inside the cooler, now and in the future.
Anticipate the right accessories for your needs
Consider your insulated cooler bag as an investment.
Think of different ways you will need to use the insulated cooler bag down the line.
Some common accessories include ice packs, carabiner clips, and extra storage pockets.
Ice packs can be reused and will avoid possible leakage as they defrost.
You should also think about the situations in which you envision using your cooler bag.
Frequently Asked Questions
The answer depends on your specific conditions and needs.
Finding a leakproof cooler bag is key for preventing spills and for temperature retention.
Lower-end cooler bags are less likely to be equipped with water-tight, leakproof zippers and closures.
If youre concerned about leaks, check that to pick cooler bags with explicitly leakproof closures and lining.
The higher the ratio of ice, the longer the cooler will retain cool temperatures.
Some manufacturers advise filling the cooler with two-thirds ice and one-third contents.
For more stubborn stains and stickiness, scrub the areas with a bristled cleaning brush.
Credit: Amazon
Credit: Travel + Leisure
Credit: RTIC
Credit: Travel + Leisure
Credit: Amazon
Credit: Travel + Leisure
Credit: Amazon
Credit: Travel + Leisure
Credit: REI
Credit: Travel + Leisure
Credit: Monti
Credit: Dbest
Credit: Travel + Leisure
Travel + Leisure
