It’s getting hotter every year and carrying heavy coolers around with you becomes uncomfortable. With these soft coolers, you won’t have to bother carrying heavy coolers around. Instead, they will fit snugly into your bag, backpack, purse, or even diaper bag without causing much trouble. Here are the 6 best rated soft coolers to keep your drink chilled and comfortable all the time.
Best soft coolers have an insulated interior with mesh pockets for water and ice. You will find many pockets inside them and some convenient straps for carrying them around easily. You will be surprised to see that the 6 best rated soft coolers have an adjustable shoulder strap that makes it easy to carry around and anywhere. Moreover, they are lightweight and foldable to fit into your backpack, or anywhere you want. These best soft coolers are designed to be used for outdoor purposes.
If you are looking for soft sided coolers for keeping your drink cold, then I have found the 6 top rated soft coolers of the decade. They will be your perfect companion for your adventures. For you guys that would like to jump directly to the 6 recommended soft coolers, you can do so by clicking HERE!
What Are Soft Sided Coolers?
A soft sided cooler is an insulated bag that is used to keep food and drinks cold. It is made of a soft material such as nylon or polyester and has a zipper closure. Soft coolers are usually smaller than hard-sided coolers and can be carried by hand or over the shoulder. They are designed to be used for camping, hiking, backpacking, and any other outdoor activity. A soft cooler is the best option if you want to keep your drink and food cold. The best thing about these coolers is that they are portable and foldable, which means you can carry them wherever you want.
Furthermore, they contain lots of pockets inside and on the outside. You will find pockets to store your snacks, keys, and other small items. They are lightweight and built to last. You don’t have to worry about them falling apart or breaking.
How Does a Soft Cooler Work?
A soft cooler keeps your food and drinks cold using an insulating material. The insulation helps to keep the cold air in and the warm air out. This way, your food, and drinks stay chilled for a longer period of time. In addition, the insulation also prevents ice from melting too quickly. Most soft coolers have a liner that is made of an insulating material such as polyester or nylon. This liner is usually filled with foam or gel to provide extra insulation. The exterior of the cooler is usually made of durable and water-resistant material. This helps to keep the cooler’s contents dry and protected from the elements.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Soft Cooler?
Keeping a drink cold is essential in our modern society. Whether camping, hiking, biking, fishing, or just going for a walk, having a cold beverage is a must. You need it to stay hydrated. You need it to keep your energy levels high. But you also want to avoid the hassle of carrying heavy coolers around all day. These soft coolers are the way to go.
1. Waterproof:
If you’re out on a camping trip, hiking, or biking, you need to keep your drinks protected from rain or other elements. The soft coolers on this list are waterproof, so you can drink your beverage while out on the road.
2. Lightweight:
You can carry around these coolers all day without worrying about your shoulder hurting. They’re lightweight, and they’re easy to carry around.
3. Portable and Durable
These coolers fold up easily, making them extremely portable. They’re also durable, so you don’t have to worry about breaking your favorite cup or water bottle during your outdoor excursions.
4. Easy-To-Clean:
There’s no need to worry about messy liquids spilling on your cooler if you choose a soft cooler. The materials they’re made from are easy to clean, so you can quickly get your drinks back in tip-top shape.
5. Good Insulation:
Most soft sided coolers have a liner that is made of an insulating material such as polyester or nylon. This liner is usually filled with foam or gel to provide extra insulation. The exterior of the cooler is usually made of durable and water-resistant material. This helps keep the cooler’s content dry and protected.
My Recommended 6 Best Rated Soft Coolers:
1) Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze Zipperless Hardbody Cooler
The Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze Zipperless Hardbody Cooler is just the thing to keep your food and drinks cold all day long. This cooler is perfect for picnics, tailgating, camping, or outdoor activities. The patented, easy-access zipperless lid makes it a breeze to open and close, and the Deep Freeze high-performance insulation ensures that your food stays cold for hours.
The HardBody liner with SmartShelf keeps everything organized, while the Ultra Safe leak-proof, easy clean lining protects against spills. The Triple-layer ColdBlock base keeps things even colder, and the exterior zippered pocket provides extra storage space for snacks or keys. The Adjustable Backsaver shoulder strap makes it easy to carry, and the Titan also features an integrated fish ruler.
Features:
- Patented, easy-access zipperless lid
- Deep Freeze high-performance insulation
- HardBody liner with SmartShelf
- Ultra-Safe leak-proof, easy clean lining
- Triple-layer ColdBlock base
- Exterior zippered pocket
- Adjustable Backsaver shoulder strap
- Integrated fish ruler
Specifications
- Brand: Arctic Zone
- Material: TPE Ripstop
- Color: Process Blue
- Item Dimensions: 12.25 x 8.5 x 12.25 inches
- Chamber Depth: 4.75 Inches
- Chamber Height: 10.25 Inches
- Chamber Width: 4.75 Inches
Pros
- Available at an affordable price
- Compact and lightweight
- Comes with lots of features
Cons
- Not spill proof
2) AO Coolers Original Soft Cooler with High-Density Insulation
Keep your food and drinks cold for a long time without the hassle of ice. This AO Coolers Original Soft Cooler with High-Density Insulation will help you to do just that. This best soft cooler is made of durable material and has a convenient shoulder strap. You can also put it on a cart and transport it anywhere you need to go. This waterproof soft cooler is ideal for camping, picnics, traveling, hunting, and other outdoor activities. It has an excellent insulation factor, so it will keep things cold or warm even after a long time.
Furthermore, it will hold about 24 cans of drinks and about 14 pounds of ice. There are many other branded coolers on the market for sale that are made of plastic, and those cannot survive in extreme conditions such as very hot temperatures and freezing cold temperatures.
On the other hand, the AO Coolers Original Soft Cooler with High-Density Insulation is not that expensive. It is also made of soft material, making it more comfortable to carry around. It won’t break or crack even in extreme temperatures. Besides, the durable soft canvas material stands up to travel, and the high-quality leak-proof TPU liner ensures your contents stay fresh and dry. When you’re looking for a versatile and reliable cooler, I honestly suggest the AO Coolers.
Features:
- Durable and soft
- Leak-proof and TPU liner
- Holds up to 24 cans plus 14 pounds of ice
- Perfect for large groups
- Zipper front pocket
- Lightweight polyethylene film
- Thick high, density polyurethane foam
Specifications:
- Brand: AO Coolers
- Material: Other
- Color: Royal Blue
- Item Dimensions: 17 x 10 x 12 inches
- Item Weight: 2 Pounds
- Chamber Depth: 17 Inches
- Chamber Height: 12 Inches
- Capacity: 22.7 Liters
Pros
- Available in different colors and sizes
- Side pockets for dry storage
- Removable shoulder strap for easy carrying
Cons
- Not suitable for carrying long distances on walks or hikes.
3) Coleman High-Performance Leak Proof Soft Cooler
Looking for an ultra-durable, leak-proof cooler that will keep your drinks cold for hours on end? Look no further than the Coleman High-Performance Soft Cooler. This cooler is built to last with its welded construction and features premium insulation to keep your drinks cold for up to 34 hours. The backpack design includes padded straps and top handles for added comfort and carrying versatility, while the front zip pocket and side mesh pockets offer convenient storage for dry goods and accessories.
Furthermore, the bungee straps provide additional storage space on the lid, and the T-shaped zippers are easy to pull and water-resistant. And for added convenience, this cooler features an integrated bottle opener, so you never have to search for an opener again. When you’re looking for a high-quality, leak-proof cooler that will keep your beverages cold all day long, reach out for this Coleman.
Features:
- Welded construction
- Premium insulation
- Padded straps and top handles
- Front zip pocket and side mesh pockets
- Bungee straps on the lid
- T-shaped zippers
- Integrated bottle opener
Specifications:
- Brand: Coleman
- Material: Other
- Color: Evergreen
- Item Dimensions: 13.5 x 9.13 x 19.13 inches
- Item Weight: 2.51 Pounds
Pros
- Leak-proof and welded construction for durability
- Padded straps and top handles for comfortable carrying
- Front zip pocket and side mesh pockets for convenient storage
- Bungee straps on lid for additional storage space
- T-shaped zippers are easy to pull and water-resistant
- Integrated bottle opener for added convenience
Cons
- Zipper could be of better quality
4) YETI Hopper Flip 12 Portable Soft Cooler
The Hopper Flip 12 is a portable 12-can cooler designed for those who want to spend more time in the great outdoors. Its innovative design will keep beverages cool while offering protection from all the hazards of outdoor living. This cooler is designed with closed-cell foam insulation, which can keep cold drinks cold for up to 12 hours, with its high-density polyethylene shell that is waterproof, puncture-resistant, and UV-protected, meaning that it will hold up against the elements.It is made from durable material to remain tough even in the roughest conditions.
There are also plenty of pockets throughout the cooler to ensure you have everything you need. With a capacity of 12 cans, this is the perfect cooler for a weekend adventure or day at the lake. There are also two drink holders on each side of the cooler, ensuring that you always have easy access to your beverages. It also comes with a non-skid rubber floor, ensuring a comfortable place to sit.
Furthermore, the HydroLok zipper is 100% leak-proof, so you don’t have to worry about your ice melting or your drinks getting warm. Whether you’re spending a day in the great outdoors or just want a reliable way to keep your beverages cool, the Hopper Flip 12 from YETI is the perfect solution.
Features:
- 12-can capacity
- Innovative design
- Closed-cell foam insulation
- High-density polyethylene shell
- Waterproof, puncture-resistant and UV-protected
- Durable material
- Plenty of pockets
- Drink holders on each side
- Non-skid rubber floor
- HydroLok zipper is 100% leak-proof
Specifications
- Brand: YETI
- Material: Foam
- Color: Charcoal
- Item Dimensions: 14 x 11 x 14 inches
- Item Weight: 1.7 Kilograms
- Insulation Material: Foam
- Chamber Depth: 10 Inches
- Chamber Height: 11.5 Inches
- Chamber Width: 10 Inches
- Capacity: 15 Pounds
Pros
- Waterproof and puncture-resistant
- Highest-performing zipper
- SideKick and bottle opener for easy access to your beverages
- Non-skid rubber feet for a comfortable place to sit
Cons
- More expensive
5) BLUU 20/25/35 Quart Cooler Backpack
As an outdoorsman or a hunter, I often go into the wilderness or a park to hike and fish. I usually carry a lot of stuff with me, and this bag is one of the items I use to keep my belongings organized and safe. It also allows me to have all my things in one place. I like the design of this bag and the comfort it gives.
This soft cooler bag is made of heavy-duty TPU and has a large capacity. It can hold up to 25 quarts or 250 ice cubes. It is designed with a double handle that is adjustable and easy to carry. You can store a large number of beverages in this cooler, making it very convenient for you. The extra compartment has enough room to carry any items you want on the go. This cool bag is very lightweight and easy to carry. You can easily transport this cooler with you anywhere you go. This is the ideal choice for you if you are going on a camping, fishing, hunting trip.
The cooler is made to be waterproof and leak-proof. It also has an insulation layer to keep its contents cold. It has a hydro seal zipper closure prevents moisture from entering the bag. There is no doubt that you will appreciate the design and quality of this bag.
I have used it in the past, and it works very well. I am glad I bought it. It is a safe choice for carrying your drinks and food. I highly recommend this bag.
Features:
- Holds up to 25 quarts or 250 ice cubes
- Double handle that is adjustable and easy to carry
- Leak-proof and waterproof
- Insulation layer to keep its contents cold
- Hydro seal zipper closure
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Extra compartment for additional storage
Specifications
- Brand: BLUU
- Material: Thermoplastic Polyurethane
- Color: Avatar-Bag Cooler
- Insulation Material: Polyurethane
- Capacity: 20 Quarts
- Duration: 5 days
Pros:
- Thermalok foam
- Hydrolok Zipper
- Scratch-resistant
- No sweat design
- Elastic outer storage
Cons:
- There are no separate compartments
6) Bison Cooler Can XD Series SOFTPAK Ice Chest Bag
You love spending time outdoors, but carrying a cooler around can be a pain. Not only does it feel like you’re carrying around a mini-fridge, but if the cooler isn’t insulated well enough, your drinks will start to warm up after just a few hours.
The Bison Cooler Can XD Series SOFTPAK Ice Chest Bag is the perfect solution for outdoor enthusiasts and busy professionals alike. It is made in America with quality craftsmanship; this best soft cooler can hold 12 cans and about 5 pounds of ice. With nearly an inch of insulation, it’s perfect for keeping your beverages cold in hot weather conditions. The water-resistant YKK zipper and robust hardware and buckles provide durability and easy transport. And the padded shoulder strap ensures comfort during transport. Customize your cooler with MOLLE webbing to add your favorite accessories. Enjoy a frosty cold drink anytime, anywhere with the Bison Cooler Can XD Series SOFTPAK Ice Chest Bag.
Features:
- Holds 12 cans and 5 pounds of ice
- Nearly an inch of insulation
- Water-resistant YKK zipper
- Robust hardware and buckles
- Padded shoulder strap
- MOLLE webbing for customization
Specifications:
- Brand: BISON COOLER
- Material: Polyester
- Color: QUICKSAND
- Capacity: 12 cans
- Duration: 24 hours
Pros:
- MOLLE webbing
- YKK zipper
- Padded shoulder strap
- Wide exterior pockets
- Free bottle opener
Cons:
- Not 100% leak-proof
Buying Guide
How To Choose The Best Soft Cooler?
When you are planning to go on an outdoor adventure, the first thing you do is to look for a comfortable and efficient cooler. With all these coolers on the market, how will you find the perfect cooler to keep your drinks cold for long periods.
Nowadays, coolers come in different shapes, sizes, and designs. There are a few details to look for when purchasing a cooler, which are listed below.
1. Size
The first thing you should consider when buying a cooler is its size. Bigger coolers are heavier than small ones. However, if you carry your items along with you when you are hiking, walking, or driving through rough terrains, the size might be important to you.
2. Material
Coolers can be made of various materials. They are also available in both plastic and stainless steel. The best cooler should be able to withstand any kind of weather.
3. Locking System
A locking system is the next thing to consider. You will be able to lock your coolers to ensure that they don’t open during the journey. It is important to buy a model that offers an easy lock to prevent it from opening accidentally.
4. Design
The design of the cooler plays a crucial role in selecting the best cooler for your needs. You need to consider the design to be able to get the most space and functionality. For example, if you are looking for a portable cooler, you might want to get one that has a simple yet durable design or has several pockets or inside compartments, etc.…
5. Color
Color is the next thing to look for. The color you choose to purchase should match your style, mood, and personality. There are plenty of coolers on the market in different colors. You can also select an option that has the latest fashion trend.
6. Price
When choosing a cooler, you need to consider the price as well. There are different types of coolers available at different price ranges. You should select the one that fits your budget and needs.
7. Insulation
One of the most important things to consider when buying a cooler is its insulation capacity. The best cooler should be able to keep your drinks cold for longer. Make sure you select one with excellent insulation capacity so you can enjoy your beverages for a longer time.
8. Portability
Portability is another important thing to consider when buying a cooler. If you are planning to use it during your travels, you need to make sure that it is easy to carry. Different types of coolers available on the market come with different features and sizes. You should select the one that is easy to carry so that you can take it with you wherever you go.
9. Warranty
It is always better to buy a cooler that comes with a warranty. This will give you the assurance that you are getting a quality product. A warranty will also give you the chance to get a replacement if there is any problem with the cooler.
FAQs
How to clean a soft cooler?
It is very easy to clean a soft cooler. You just need to wipe it with a damp cloth and then dry it with a clean towel.
How to store a soft cooler?
When storing a soft cooler, you need to make sure that it is dry and clean. You can store it in a cool, dry place. You should also keep it away from direct sunlight.
What is the best soft cooler for a camping trip?
There are different types of coolers available on the market. You need to select the one that fits your needs and budget.
How long do soft coolers last?
The lifespan of a soft cooler depends on its quality and how you use it. If you take good care of it, it can last for a long time.
Does a soft cooler need to be refrigerated?
No, a soft cooler does not need to be refrigerated. You can store it in a cool, dry place.
Additional Resources
If you are looking for more tutorials, walkthroughs and troubleshooting about camping and enjoying the outdoors, here are some additional posts to check out:
Conclusion
Knowing which soft cooler is the right one for your needs can be tough, but we’re here to help. After thoroughly researching and testing all of the best soft coolers on the market, I’ve compiled a list of our six best soft coolers. So, whether you’re looking for something small and compact that will fit your backpack or a large cooler that can keep food and drinks cold for days, we’ve got you covered. I hope this article will help you choose the best soft sided cooler for your needs, if I forget something or if you have a story or a tip to share, feel free to leave a comment below, but for now…Be Safe And Happy Adventure.!