12 min read

Backpack to the Future: Keeping it Cool with Portable Chillers

Are you looking for the perfect solution to keep your hands free while keeping your drinks and snacks cold?
Backpack to the Future: Keeping it Cool with Portable Chillers

Are you looking for the perfect solution to keep your hands free while keeping your drinks and snacks cold?

The best backpack coolers are the most versatile and convenient way of carrying food, drinks, and other necessities while on the go. They are lightweight yet offer superior insulation to store items at optimal temperatures so that you can enjoy them later on in their freshest state.

Not only that, but they feature adjustable shoulder straps so you can adjust them perfectly for maximum comfort. And with multiple pockets and compartments, there’s plenty of room to store all your favorite snacks!

Upgrade your outdoor adventures with one of the best backpack coolers – never worry about missing an important call or having a dead phone battery again as it has a built-in USB port for charging devices anywhere anytime.

Plus the water-resistant fabric means your items will stay safe even when soaked in accidental moisture! With their sleek designs combined with practicality and convenience, why settle for anything else?

Get one of the best backpack coolers now!

How We Choose The Best

Have you ever been on a day trip and desperately needed something to hold all of your food and drinks, only to find out that there's no cooler available?

With traditional coolers being bulky and heavy, they are often not worth the effort of lugging them around with you. Plus, they don't offer the convenience of portability that you need.

Never worry about not having a cooler when you're out and about again! these backpack coolers make it easy to keep all your food and drinks cold without sacrificing comfort. Lightweight, yet durable, they provide maximum convenience and portability for all of your adventures.

We read through 1000's of Amazon reviews to find the best backpack coolers. We only selected products that have 4 or 5 stars and have been reviewed by dozens of people.

PawProven is impartial and is not affiliated with any brands or organizations. Links to Amazon are affiliate links and may result in a small commission on the purchase – at no additional expense to you.

Traditional Coolers VS Backpack Coolers

Summer is here, and it's the perfect time to get out and explore the great outdoors. Whether you're planning a beach day, picnic, or hiking trip, there's one essential item you need to bring along with you: a backpack cooler.

Unlike traditional coolers, backpack coolers are portable, convenient, and have a larger cooling capacity. In this blog post, we'll explore the benefits of using a backpack cooler for outdoor activities, the practical uses of these soft coolers, and provide reviews of some of the top backpack coolers on the market.

Convenience and Portability

One of the most significant advantages of a backpack cooler is its convenience and portability. Backpack coolers are hands-free, allowing you to carry other equipment or supplies easily.

The soft coolers can be easily transported while hiking, biking, or walking, making them ideal for outdoor activities. The backpack cooler design allows for even weight distribution, making it comfortable to carry for long periods because most backpack coolers have padded shoulder straps and back panels.

Cooling Capacity

Backpack coolers also have a larger cooling capacity than traditional coolers. They are designed to keep your food and drinks fresh and cold for longer periods, making them ideal for all-day outings.

Some backpack coolers can keep ice frozen for up to 48 hours, ensuring that your food and drinks stay at the right temperature no matter where your adventures take you.

Practical Uses

Backpack coolers are not only practical for outdoor activities but also for everyday use. They are perfect for taking to the beach, park, or camping trips. They can also be used for tailgating, picnics, and even for carrying groceries home from the store. The possibilities are endless!

Choosing the Best Backpack Cooler

When choosing a backpack cooler, consider the size and capacity, durability, and cooling capacity. Look for backpack coolers with extra padding on the back and straps for added comfort. The backpack cooler should also have zippered pockets, a large main compartment and at least one zippered pocket. Finally, make sure it is leak-proof and easy to clean.

Using Your Backpack Cooler

To get the most out of your backpack cooler, pre-chill it before use and pack it with plenty of ice or ice packs. Keep it out of direct sunlight, and avoid opening it too often to prevent warm air from entering and your beverages cold. Finally, always remember to clean and dry it properly before storing it away.

In conclusion, a backpack cooler is a must-have summer accessory for anyone who loves spending time outdoors. Backpack-style coolers are practical, convenient, have a large cooling capacity, and come in various sizes and designs to fit your needs.

With so many options available, there's no excuse not to invest in a backpack cooler and enjoy fresh and cold drinks, like a water bottle and food no matter where your outdoor adventures take you!

TOURIT Cooler Backpack

Best For 30 Cans

TOURIT Backpack Cooler

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Why We Like It

The TOURIT Backpack Cooler is a must-have for anyone who loves outdoor activities. This backpack cooler is perfect for storing food and drinks during picnics, road trips, beach trips, hiking, camping, or cycling.

It features multiple exterior pockets including 1 main roomy storage compartment, 2 side mesh pockets, 2 large front zipper pockets to keep utensils, 1 zipper pocket on the lid, 1 mesh pocket, and 1 beer opener on the strap. Made of waterproof, durable fabric, the backpack is also lightweight making it easy to carry. The insulated cooler backpack stops melted ice leaking out.

You'll love that it also doubles as a lunch backpack or daily pack, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you're heading to work or on a weekend getaway, the TOURIT Backpack Cooler is a great choice and comes in as a perfect gift for any adventure-loving, man or woman.

What Else You Should Know

If you're looking for a lightweight backpack cooler that can withstand various outdoor activities, look no further than our waterproof, durable option. Perfect for work, picnics, road trips, beach days, hiking, camping, or cycling, this backpack cooler will be your go-to companion for all your adventures.

And it's not just a backpack cooler - the stylish design makes it perfect for use as a daily pack or lunch backpack. So whether you're going to work, taking a road trip, or hitting the trail, this backpack cooler has got you covered. And if you're in search of the perfect gift for an outdoorsy friend or family member, this backpack cooler is sure to please both men and women.

SPARTER Backpack Cooler

Best For Insulation Foam

Sparter Backpack Cooler

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Why We Like It

The SPARTER Backpack Cooler! Ready to enjoy every outdoor adventure knowing that your drinks and food will remain both cool and intact? Look no further – this is the perfect companion for beach days, picnics, hiking trips, camping, work lunches, boating escapades or base/golf games.

With its innovative construction featuring eight-mm thick insulation foam together with a special UV-blocking PEVA seal, you can expect beverages and foods to stay chilled for up to 20 hours.

And what about durability? This backpack cooler is made of high-density scratch-resistant nylon material with extra PU coating for maximum waterproof protection and easy cleaning after every use.

Plus, SPARTER has taken into account your comfort when carrying it around seeing how it’s been designed with adjustable padded straps and a back panel for more comfortable transportation of your goods.

What’s more, you won’t have to worry about overpacking as the lightweight (1.13 LB) backpack cooler bag allows you to bring along enough delicious treats without straining your back too much.

So don’t hesitate – get ahead of the pack with anything fiery or frozen by investing in our trusty SPARTER Backpack Cooler today!

What Else You Should Know

Whether you're heading to the beach or embarking on a hiking adventure, the last thing you want is for your drinks and snacks to get warm and soggy. That's why we're excited to introduce our new backpack cooler, designed with two separate insulated compartments to keep your drinks cool and your snacks dry.

Plus, if you forget a bottle opener, no worries - we've included one for your convenience.  This backpack cooler with a spacious front pocket and two side pockets, is perfect for holding all of your essentials like your phone, wallet, and other accessories.

And you can rest easy knowing that we use a high-tech seamless hot pressing process to ensure that our backpack cooler is leak-proof, backed up by our free replacement or return policy if ever necessary.

So, grab our backpack cooler and enjoy your next adventure without worrying about warm drinks and soggy snacks.

FORICH Soft Cooler Backpack

Best For Leakproof PEVA Liner

FORICH Soft Cooler Backpack

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Why We Like It

The FORICH Soft Cooler Backpack is a must-have for any outdoor lover. Perfect for hikes, camping, and beachside trips, this backpack cooler is designed with convenience and versatility in mind. Its roomy capacity of up to 30 cans or 30L ensures plenty of space to store your favorite drinks and snacks.

A key feature of this cooler backpack is how well it insulates food and drinks. The interior lining is made from high grade material that retains cold temperatures for up to 24 hours. Combining this with the upgraded inner insulated thick material plus leakproof PEVA liner guarantees that your food and drinks stay fresh, even in hotter weather. Additionally, the two side pockets can hold 2 bottles of wine!

Sporting an ergonomic design, adjustable shoulder straps and a breathable 3D mesh back makes carrying around the FORICH backpack comfortable and convenient enough to bring everywhere you go.

Practical features such as a deep front pocket, upper zip pocket, side pockets and mesh pockets ensure secure organization for all your items.

From picnics in the park to beach getaways, take the FORICH Soft  Backpack Cooler on all your adventures!

What Else You Should Know

The multiple pockets featured in this backpack cooler make it the ultimate storage solution for picnics, hikes, or any outdoor adventure. The main insulated compartment is perfect for keeping drinks and food cold, while the large zipper pocket in front is ideal for storing dry items and tableware.

In addition, there are mesh and zip pockets inside, as well as a front zip pocket designed specifically to hold cellphones or small items. The lid also has a zipper pocket perfect for organizing snacks, and the two side mesh pockets are great for stashing water or wine bottles.

This backpack cooler is not only functional but it is also built to last. Made with durable football pattern Oxford fabric, this backpack cooler is scratch resistant and lightweight, while still providing ample storage space. The bonus of a beer opener located on the shoulder strap makes this backpack cooler the perfect accessory for any outdoor adventure.

ICEMULE Pro Collapsible Backpack Cooler

Best For 24 Hour Cooling

IceMule Coolers

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Why We Like It

The ICEMULE Pro Collapsible Backpack Cooler—your perfect companion for your next beach day, hike, picnic, and more! Our proprietary MuleSkin fabrics with welded seams and IM AirValve technology create an ultra-tough exterior and interior that retains ice-like temperatures for 24+ hours— talk about reliability!

Not to mention, our PolarLayer insulation ensures added strength for longer journeys. With 14"L x 11"W x 18"H dimensions and 23-liter capacity, this lightweight backpack-style cooler holds up to 18 cans + ice— so enough to keep all your friends cool as you hit the perfect wave or reach the top of the peak.

This backpack cooler with its padded and ventilated straps that leave both arms free means, you don't need to worry about leaving your surfboard or fishing pole behind. With multiple styles also available, ICEMULE Pro Collapsible Backpack Cooler has got you covered wherever your journey takes you!

What Else You Should Know

When you're packing for an adventure and you want to bring along something to keep your food and drinks cool, the ICEMULE backpack cooler is the perfect solution. With its roll-up design, you can fill it up and take it with you wherever you go.

It's especially handy for traveling parents who need to bring snacks and drinks for their kids. The front zipper pocket on this backpack cooler is also a great place to store accessories such as utensils, napkins or even a phone. Plus, with welded seams and a zipper-less closure, this cooler is waterproof and can even float next to your kayak, which makes it perfect for beach days or rafting trips.

And if that wasn't enough, the IM AirValve allows for air to be added to the insulation layer for increased buoyancy. Just fill it up and go - the ICEMULE backpack cooler has you covered.

Everlasting Comfort Backpack Cooler

Best For Large Capacity

Everlasting Cooler Backpack

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Why We Like It

Keep cool in all situations with the Everlasting Cooler Backpack! With a whopping 54-can capacity and 4lb ice storage space, this lightweight bag is perfect for any beach trip. Crafted from high-quality PEVA material and thick insulated foam, it'll keep your food and drinks at the desired temperature for up to 24 hrs – hot or cold!

And with its leak-proof waterproof zippers and hard-liner, you can go kayaking, fishing, or golfing as much as you like without worrying about leaks or spills. So grab your Everlasting Cooler Backpack today and hit the beach in style – we've got you covered!

What Else You Should Know

When it comes to portable coolers, our backpack cooler is a game-changer. The front pocket offers storage for small items, while the dual side pockets snugly hold wine bottles.

Plus, there's a handy keychain bottle opener on the zipper pull. Not only is this cooler comfortable to wear due to the padded, adjustable straps, but it also has a carrying handle for easy transportation. Not just limited to being a lunch cooler, it can be taken along for picnics, camping trips, kayaking adventures, or as a travel backpack cooler.

With its premium materials and reinforced stitching, it's built to last and perfect for any occasion. It doesn't matter if you're using this backpack cooler as a beer cooler, boat cooler, ice cooler, dry ice chest, backpack lunch bag, drink cooler, or beach cooler bag, it always performs with excellence.

FAQ’s Backpack Coolers

1. What are backpack coolers?

Backpack coolers are compact and lightweight coolers designed for carrying food and drinks during outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and backpacking.

They should have padded shoulder straps for additional comfort. Some have zippered pockets and as a bonus may include a bottle opener.

2. How are backpack coolers different from regular coolers?

Backpack coolers are smaller and lighter than regular coolers, making them easier to carry on hikes or backpacking trips. They are also designed to keep ice and food cold for longer periods.  The top backpack coolers have watertight zippers and adjustable shoulder straps.

3. What is the capacity of backpacking coolers?

The capacity of a cooler backpack varies depending on the model. They can range from 10 to 30 liters, with some models having additional storage compartments.

4. How long do backpacking coolers keep food and drinks cold?

The length of time that a backpacking cooler keeps food and drinks cold depends on the quality of the insulation and the amount of ice used in the cooler compartment. However, most backpacking coolers can keep food and drinks cold for at least 24 hours.

5. Can I use ice packs instead of regular ice in backpacking coolers?

Yes, you can use ice packs instead of regular ice in backpacking coolers. Ice packs are a good option for those who don't want to deal with melting ice.  These soft coolers have a different ice retention times

6. What materials are backpacking coolers made of?

Backpacking coolers are typically made of durable and lightweight materials such as nylon, polyester, and PVC. The interior cooler compartment is usually lined with waterproof and insulated material such as foam or thermoplastic polyurethane.  Soft coolers use reusable ice packs to keep food cold.

7. Are backpacking coolers waterproof?

Yes, most backpacking coolers are waterproof to some extent. However, they are not designed for submersion in water.

8. Can I carry backpacking coolers on airplanes?

It depends on the size and airline. Most backpacking coolers can be carried on airplanes as long as they meet the size and weight requirements of the airline. It's best to check with the airline before traveling.

9. How should I clean my backpacking cooler?

You can clean your backpacking cooler by wiping it down with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Make sure to rinse it thoroughly and let it air dry.

10. Are backpacking coolers expensive?

The cost of backpacking coolers varies depending on the model and brand. Prices can range from $30 to over $200. However, the investment is worth it for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy extended trips and need to keep food and drinks cold.

Conclusion

In conclusion, backpacking coolers are an essential tool for any outdoor enthusiast who wants to keep their food and drinks fresh and cold on the trail. They are an excellent choice for those seeking an ultra-durable, versatile, and efficient backpacking cooler.

Their compact size and lightweight design make them easy to carry, while superior insulation ensures that your food and drinks stay cold for longer periods.

For those who are new to backpacking coolers, here are some tips to get started: always pre-chill the cooler before packing, use ice packs instead of loose ice, and avoid opening the cooler unnecessarily to keep the temperature stable.

Overall, backpack coolers are an excellent investment for those who are passionate about outdoor adventures and want to enjoy fresh and cold food and drinks while exploring nature. Don't hesitate to give one a try and take your backpacking experience to the next level!

If you're interested in learning more about backpacking gear, be sure to check out our other blog posts on outdoor equipment and techniques for hiking and camping. The wilderness awaits, so pack up and hit the trails with confidence!