We tested the extra-large 33-liter size and the 23-liter large size, which is probably plenty for most people’s day trips. While perhaps not its most exciting use, we also found the Icemule Pro a great addition to grocery trips to keep refrigerated and frozen items cold in my vehicle. From the office to the gym, on lunch break in between classes or weekend adventures, there is always a time and place for an Igloo insulated cooler bag. Our cooler bags come in a wide variety of silhouettes colors and patterns – it’s time to travel in style.
The MaxCold’s coolers all come in a mix of black, gray and blue. And 1.2 lbs., while the Cool Fusion 36, which provides more space, weighs 6.4 lbs. The most durable coolers we tested are the Engel HD30, Yeti M30, and Yeti Flip 12.
Keep your cooler in the shade to prolong that low temperature. If you’re under direct sun, toss a towel or blanket over the cooler to help alleviate a heat spike. We periodically checked, making notes regarding melt rate, condensation, and leaks. Each reported time is based on when 100% of the ice is converted to water. We also tested the Orca Walker Tote ($197), which is equally well-made but in a slightly different style.
We couldn’t write a list of soft sided coolers reviews without the RTIC Soft Sided Cooler in it. Another popular brand of coolers, the Polar Bear soft cooler has a rugged outer shell, strong zippers, and a range of colors. And remember—when picking the size you need, keep in mind what activities you’re most likely to partake in. A smaller cooler tote bag may be ideal for a day hike with your significant other, whereas a more sizable cooler is great for larger outdoor gatherings.
The quality of materials influences the waterproofness, durability, insulation value, and whether or not the face fabric produces condensation. The materials also determine the comfort, breathability, support, and overall cost. Boxier coolers can be easier to stack — as long as the walls and base are igloo trailmate rigid — while sleeker coolers can more likely slip behind a seat in your car. Shorter, more compact coolers are easier to fit in tight spaces on a boat. YETI recently upgraded the cooler so the magnetic closure stays open when you’re loading up foodstuff (previously, it would snap shut mid-task).
A handful have an interior zippered compartment inside the lid. Overall, we found the Pack-Away durable, given it’s made with a tough polyester shell and abrasion-resistant nylon bottom. According to the ice retention test, this cooler can retain ice for 57 hours and fit ounce cans. The design is super lightweight and felt comfortable to carry around.
Backpack cooler bags are fabulous when you travel with kids, as you can be hands free. The Arctic soft cooler has an inner hardbody liner with a shelf – the best of both worlds. There’s no zipper to battle to get it open, just un-click the lid and open it up.