==================
Florida Splendors is supported by our audience. When you purchase through one of our links, we may earn a small affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Your cost is not affected.
“Discover a wide selection of backpack coolers for outdoor adventures and picnics.”
Backpack Coolers for Beach or Hiking: Our Top Picks for 2023
When it comes to spending a day at the beach or going on a hiking trip, packing food and drinks is a must. However, keeping them cool can be challenging, especially if you don’t want to lug around a heavy cooler.
This is where backpack coolers, like the cooler insert for a backpack, come in – they are convenient and hands-free to keep your food and increase ice retention while on the go. Backpack coolers for beach or hiking come in various sizes and styles, so it’s essential to consider your needs before purchasing.
Image Source: Flickr / injurylaworegon.com
The most critical factors to consider when selecting a backpack cooler are size, material, and insulation. Firstly, size is crucial to ensure sufficient storage space to accommodate all items without becoming cumbersome.
Secondly, the material of the cooler should be durable to withstand outdoor conditions. Lastly, insulation is essential for effective ice retention, ensuring that your items remain cold for an extended period, especially when using ice packs.
Therefore, when choosing a backpack cooler, prioritize these aspects to meet your storage and ice retention requirements.
We spent hours researching and testing various top-rated backpack coolers to identify the ones perfect for beach or hiking, including the best backpack cooler options.
In this article, we’ll share our top picks and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed purchase.
So, whether you’re planning a day at the beach or a long hike, you can rest assured that your food and drinks will stay cool and refreshing with one of these backpack coolers.
Best Backpack Coolers for Beachgoers and Hikers
On Top of a Hill / Flickr / Ivan Radic
Keeping your food and drinks cool is essential When spending a day at the beach or going on a long hiking trip. A cooler is the perfect solution for keeping everything chilled and easy to carry around.
With so many options on the market, choosing the right one for your needs can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best backpack coolers for beach or hiking so you can enjoy your outdoor adventures without worrying about refreshments.
The Everlasting Comfort Cooler is an excellent option if you’re looking for a spacious, durable, and versatile backpack cooler.
Pros
-
-
- With a 54 can and 4lb ice capacity, this cooler is spacious enough to hold all your beach or hiking essentials.
- Made with high-quality PEVA material and thick insulated foam, the Everlasting Comfort Backpack Cooler keeps your food and drinks at the desired temperature for up to 24 hours.
- The hardliner and waterproof zippers make this cooler leakproof and durable, so your drinks and food are safely stored.
-
Cons
-
-
- The bottom of the backpack cooler is made of cloth, which can quickly get dirty and stained.
- The insulation lining inside the cooler sticks up and gets in the way when you zip the top around the corners.
- The cooler is a bit heavy when fully loaded, so it may not be the best option if you want something lightweight.
-
This backpack insert features multiple compartments, including a front pocket for small items, dual side pockets for wine bottles, and a keychain bottle opener. It also has padded adjustable straps and a carrying handle for easy transport.
The Everlasting Comfort Backpack Cooler is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re using it as a beer cooler, boat cooler, ice cooler, dry ice chest, backpack lunch bag, or beach cooler bag. It’s also an excellent gift for outdoor enthusiasts, beach lovers, or picnic fans.
Cleaning and maintaining this waterproof backpack cooler is easy, thanks to its leakproof design. Wipe it down with a damp cloth, and it’s ready for your next adventure.
If you’re looking for a cooler perfect for hiking, picnics, or beach trips, the TOURIT Cooler Backpack is a great choice. It keeps your food cool and safe for up to 16 hours, and it’s made of high-density, tear-resistant fabric with padded, adjustable straps, making it comfortable and versatile.
Pros
- The high-density material keeps your snacks and drinks cool for up to 16 hours.
- The ventilate material on the back prevents your clothes from getting wet due to condensation.
- The backpack is durable and easy to clean.
Cons
- The backpack may feel a bit heavy when fully loaded.
- The pockets may be too small for some users.
- The plastic bag inside the backpack may have a strong smell.
The TOURIT Cooler has a large main compartment that can hold up to 30 cans, and it also has two front zippered pockets, two side mesh pockets, and a zipper pocket on the lid.
The backpack also has a beer opener on the strap, making it easy to enjoy a cold drink on the go. The backpack is made of waterproof, durable fabric and is lightweight, leak-proof, and tear-resistant. It’s also stylish, perfect for a lunch backpack or daily pack.
Image Source: Unsplash /
Viviana Rishe
Overall, if you’re looking for a cooler perfect for outdoor activities, the TOURIT Cooler is a great choice. It’s durable and versatile and keeps your food and drinks cool for hours.
If you’re looking for a cooler perfect for outdoor activities, then the TOURIT Insulated Backpack Cooler is an excellent choice.
Pros
- The deep main storage compartment can hold at least 28 cans, perfect for long hikes or beach trips.
- The high-quality insulation material and leak-proof liner ensure your food and drinks stay cold or hot for hours.
- The backpack has multiple pockets, including a large front zippered pocket with a mesh divider, side mesh pockets, and a roomy main compartment to keep your items organized.
Cons
- The backpack may not be suitable for longer trips, as it only has a capacity of 6.6 gallons.
- The backpack may not be as durable as other options on the market.
- The backpack may not be as comfortable to wear for extended periods.
This cooler is lightweight and comfortable, thanks to its adjustable, padded shoulder straps and thickly padded sections on the back. It’s perfect for picnics, work, camping, hiking, and road or beach trips.
The backpack is also water-resistant and made of tear-resistant fabric, ensuring it lasts for multiple trips. The TOURIT Insulated Cooler is an excellent choice if you’re looking for insulated backpacks that are both stylish and functional.
This insulated cooler bag is perfect for outdoor activities. It can keep your food safe and increase ice retention for hours. It’s also lightweight and comfortable, making it easy to carry on long hikes or beach trips.
Overall, this is a great cooler that is worth considering for your next outdoor adventure.
If you’re looking for a cooler with remarkable ice retention, then the BAGLHER Cooler Backpack might be the one for you.
Pros
- The BAGLHER Cooler Backpack is spacious enough to hold up to 30 cans, making it perfect for a day at the beach or a hike.
- The more excellent backpack is made of heavy-duty nylon that is scratch-proof and durable.
- The backpack cooler has padded and fully adjustable shoulder straps that offer maximum comfort and support.
Cons
- Some reviewers have reported that the cooler backpack leaks.
- The backpack cooler is a bit heavy, which might be an issue if you carry it for long periods.
- The backpack cooler doesn’t have a waist strap, which might make it less comfortable to carry for some people.
The BAGLHER Cooler Backpack is a versatile backpack that can be used for various outdoor activities. It has multiple pockets, including a main roomy storage compartment, a zipper pocket on the lid for your snacks, two side mesh pockets, and a front pocket to keep utensils.
The backpack cooler is also leakproof and insulated, offering ice retention for up to 20 hours. The backpack cooler is perfect for lunch, work, hiking, camping, beach, road trips, outdoors, and more.
These are suitable for both men and women. You can use them as soft coolers, hiking backpacks, camping backpacks, fishing backpacks, travel backpacks, hunting, trails, cycling, overnight stays, and other outdoor activities.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a spacious and durable backpack cooler that can keep your drinks cold or hot for hours, then the BAGLHER Cooler Backpack might be the one for you. However, if you’re looking for a lighter backpack cooler or one with a waist strap, then you might want to consider other options.
If you’re looking for a versatile backpack cooler that can keep your drinks and food cold for more than 24 hours, the ICEMULE Jaunt Collapsible Backpack Cooler is worth considering.
Pros
- The backpack cooler is made of rugged and versatile MuleSkin fabrics, making it durable and long-lasting.
- With its PolarLayer Insulation, this backpack cooler can keep ice-like temperatures for 24+ hours, ensuring your drinks and food stay cold.
- The backpack cooler is hands-free with two padded and ventilated straps that free your arms to hold other adventure gear.
Cons
- The small size of this backpack cooler may not be enough to hold all your drinks and food for a long day at the beach or hiking.
- The backpack cooler is not suitable for carrying hot food or drinks.
- The backpack cooler is only available in one color.
The ICEMULE Jaunt Collapsible Backpack Cooler is perfect for beach days, hiking, picnics, and other outdoor adventures. Its MuleSkin fabrics and welded seams make it a waterproof backpack cooler so you can take it with you on your kayak or any other water activity.
The backpack cooler’s front zipper pocket is great for storing and drying accessories. The backpack cooler’s collapsible design makes it easy to pack and carry with you when empty. You can roll it up and pack it, making it the perfect carry-on for traveling parents.
The backpack cooler’s IM AirValve adds air to the insulation layer, so the ICEMULE can float right next to your kayak even when full.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a durable, long-lasting, and hands-free backpack cooler that can keep your drinks and food cold for more than 24 hours, the ICEMULE Jaunt Collapsible Backpack Cooler is a great option.
If you’re looking for a backpack cooler that can keep your drinks and food cold for up to 20 hours, then the SPARTER backpack cooler is a great choice.
Pros
- The backpack is lightweight and easy to carry, perfect for hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.
- It has two insulated compartments for cooling drinks and dry foods, one front big pocket, and two side pockets to hold your snacks, phone, wallet, and other accessories.
- The backpack is leak-proof and sweat-free, thanks to its high-tech, seamless hot pressing process.
Cons
- The pockets are a little smaller than expected, which may be a downside if you carry many items.
- The backpack’s capacity is limited to 33 cans, which may not be enough for larger groups or longer trips.
- The backpack’s color is only available in black, which may not be everyone’s preferred choice.
The SPARTER backpack cooler is made of high-density scratch-resistant nylon material with extra PU coating, ensuring it is 100% waterproof and easy to clean.
The backpack is also insulated with thickened 8mm foam and an advanced silver PEVA seal to keep beverages cold and foods excellent for up to 20 hours throughout the day for beach picnics, hiking, camping, trips, boating, baseball/golf games, and work.
In addition, the backpack is designed with adjustable padded straps and back, making it more comfortable than carrying a heavy, traditional big cooler. The backpack also comes with a bottle opener included for more convenience.
Overall, the SPARTER backpack cooler is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a lightweight, leak-proof backpack cooler that can keep their drinks and food cold for up to 20 hours.
If you’re looking for a versatile cooler for beach or hiking, the IceMule Classic Collapsible Backpack Cooler is a great option. With its leakproof and waterproof design, this cooler is perfect for keeping your food and drinks cold for up to 24 hours.
Pros
- The TriFold DriTo System and PolarLayer Insulation ensure your food and drinks stay cold for up to 24 hours.
- The backpack-style design makes it easy to carry and keeps your hands free for other activities.
- The cooler is collapsible, making it easy to store and transport when not in use.
Cons
- The cooler’s insulation is less effective in direct sunlight and high temperatures.
- The backpack straps may not be comfortable for extended periods of use.
- The cooler is not as spacious as other backpack coolers on the market.
This cooler is an excellent option for those who want a portable, leakproof, and waterproof cooler for beach or hiking trips. The TriFold DriTo System and PolarLayer Insulation ensure that your food and drinks stay cold for up to 24 hours, and the backpack-style design makes it easy to carry.
However, the insulation is not as effective in direct sunlight and high temperatures, and the backpack straps may not be comfortable for extended periods of use. Overall, if you’re looking for a compact and reliable backpack cooler, the IceMule Classic Collapsible Backpack Cooler is a solid choice.
REI Co-op Cool Trail Pack Cooler (Affordable and Durable)
Image Source: Unsplash / Danka & Peter
The REI Co Op Cool Trail Pack Cooler is a versatile, affordable cooler. It features a removable cooler insert, allowing you to switch between a cooler and a regular day pack. This means you will enjoy two-pack styles for the price of one.
Pros
- Versatile design with removable cooler insert.
- Comfortable to wear with the padded straps, back panel, and hip belt.
- Practical features like mesh water bottle holders and zippered pockets.
- Eco-friendly materials made with recycled nylon and polyester.
- Ice packs retention is excellent, keeping ice for about 77 hours.
Cons
- The material doesn’t wick sweat effectively.
- Basic handle design.
- Limited airflow.
One of Re Co Op’s cool perks is its comfortable design. It has a padded back panel and contoured hip belt that helps with even weight distribution and reduces strain on the back. Despite being loaded with canned beverages, it remains easy to carry.
However, the material doesn’t effectively absorb sweat, although it does allow some airflow. The handle is simple but convenient, making it easy to carry even long distances.
Image Source: Unsplash /
Noah Buscher
Moreover, the Co Op Cool Trail Pack Cooler has practical features. These include mesh water bottle holders and zippered pockets. These features allow for access to items like water bottles and sunscreen.
In addition, its eco-friendly design is another stand-out feature. The cooler has Bluesign-approved materials, including recycled ripstop nylon and polyester. This makes it a more sustainable choice compared to other packs.
During testing, I noticed that the REI Co Op Cool Trail Pack could keep ice for about 77 hours, surpassing its claimed rate. It can bear up to 20 12-ounce cans, making it suitable for outdoor activities.
How to Choose the Best Backpack Coolers: Buying Guide
Image Source: Unsplash / Apaha Spi
When buying a backpack cooler for beach or hiking, you should consider a few things before purchasing. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Insulation is Essential
The primary aim of your cooler is to keep your beverages cold for extended periods. When choosing a backpack cooler, ensure thick insulation and an excellent seal to trap the cold air inside.
Some backpack coolers also have removable liners, making them easy to clean. The proper insulation ensures that your food and drinks stay cold for longer, whether hiking, picnicking, or enjoying the beach.
So, aim to invent coolers with thick insulation layers and high-quality products. These coolers can maintain low temperatures, increasing ice retention.
Image Source: Unsplash / Keagan Henman
Carrying Comfort: Straps, Cushioning, and Stability
Before you invest, ask yourself, Is your chosen cooler easy to carry? Does it have straps and cushioning?
Remember that carrying the comfort of your backpack cooler is a critical factor. Look at the straps, cushioning, and stability.
Straps should be adjustable and padded to make carrying easier on your shoulders. Cushioning on the back panel and hip belt adds support and prevents discomfort.
In addition, stability ensures that your cooler stays in place while you walk or hike, reducing bouncing and shifting. Prioritizing carrying comfort means you can wear your backpack cooler for extended periods without feeling tired or sore.
It’s all about making sure your hikes and beach trips are enjoyable and free from discomfort. So, when picking out a cooler, pay attention to these factors to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free experience.
Durability is a Top Priority
Image Source: Unsplash / S&B Vonlanthen
Durability is another critical factor to consider. Remember, you are paying your hard-earned money to buy a backpack cooler. So, make sure that it is rigid and can withstand outdoor elements.
Aim for a backpack made from high-quality materials popular for resilience against wear and tear. Many backpack coolers have waterproof or water-resistant properties. They safeguard your belongings from moisture and ensure they stay dry in wet conditions.
That said, nylon and polyester are excellent materials for backpack coolers. These are durable and resistant, and they can withstand wear and tear. In addition, your backpack cooler should be insulated and have thick, high-density, or closed-cell foam.
By prioritizing durability, you can ensure that your cooler stands up to the rigors of outdoor adventures.
Weight and Capacity
Image Source: Unsplash / Dushawn Jovic
When choosing a backpack cooler, it’s crucial to consider both weight and capacity. The weight of the cooler impacts your comfort and convenience during outdoor activities.
The first thing to consider is the capacity of the backpack cooler. Consider how much food and drinks you’ll need to bring and choose a cooler to accommodate that amount. Remember that the larger the cooler, the heavier the carry.
Most hard sided coolers are often heavy and lack portability. In contrast, softcoolers with padded straps are more comfortable and easy to carry.
Remember, a lighter cooler is more accessible, especially for longer distances or over rough terrain, than a heavy one. It also reduces strain on your shoulders and back.
Moreover, your cooler’s capacity ensures enough space to store all your food and drinks. Thus, opting for a cooler with a suitable capacity ensures you can carry the essentials you need without feeling burdened by its weight.
That said, weight and capacity is a crucial factor. So, aim to find a backpack cooler that balances portability and storage.
Additional Features of Best Backpack Coolers
Lastly, consider any additional features that may be important to you. Some backpack coolers have built-in bottle openers, extra storage pockets, or music speakers. Consider what features are important to you and choose a backpack cooler that meets your needs.
| Feature | Importance |
|---|---|
| Capacity | High |
| Insulation | High |
| Comfort and Fit | High |
| Durability | High |
| Additional Features | Medium |
Image Source: Unsplash / Ralf Sauter
Embrace Outdoor Refreshment: Top Backpack Coolers for Beach or Hiking in 2023
Image Source: Unsplash / Lucas Favre
Image Source: Unsplash / Thomas Schweighofer
As you venture into outdoor adventures in 2023, embracing the concept of staying refreshed becomes crucial. Backpack coolers are your reliable companions for beach trips or hiking expeditions, ensuring you can enjoy chilled food and beverages on the go.
With a wide array of options available, you can find the perfect backpack cooler that suits your needs, allowing you to carry and maintain the coolness of your refreshments conveniently.
So, embrace the outdoors and elevate your experience with one of the top coolers for beach or hiking excursions in 2023.
Image Source: Unsplash / Priscilla Du Preez
Image Source: Unsplash / Suhyeon Choi
Frequently Asked Questions
What's Inside
- Are all backpack coolers waterproof?
- Is a backpack cooler better than one on wheels for beach trips?
- What are the advantages of using a backpack cooler for hiking or beach trips?
- Are backpack coolers allowed in national parks?
- Do I need to use ice packs in a backpack cooler?
- Are backpack coolers suitable for a day at the beach?
- Should you invest in hard-sided coolers or soft coolers?
- How do you protect your backpack from melted ice?
Are all backpack coolers waterproof?
No! Most backpack coolers are waterproof and are water-resistant. It’s essential to check the product specifications before purchasing to ensure it meets your needs.
Consider investing in a waterproof option if you use your cooler near water or rainy conditions.
Is a backpack cooler better than one on wheels for beach trips?
A backpack cooler is often better for beach trips because it allows more effortless mobility on the sand and uneven terrain. It also frees up your hands to carry other items, such as chairs or umbrellas. In addition, these coolers keep your beverages cold and food warm. For added comfort, choosing soft coolers is an excellent idea.
However, if you have a lot of heavy items to carry, a cooler on wheels may be a better option.
What are the advantages of using a backpack cooler for hiking or beach trips?
The advantages of using a backpack cooler for hiking or beach trips include hands-free mobility and the ability to carry other necessary items. Additionally, backpack coolers are often more compact and lightweight than traditional coolers, making them easier to transport. Plus, these coolers allow you to keep your beverages cold and food warm.
Are backpack coolers allowed in national parks?
The rules regarding backpack coolers in national parks vary by park. Backpack coolers are generally allowed if they are not used to store food or other items that may attract wildlife.
It’s essential to check the specific rules and regulations of the park you plan to visit before bringing a backpack cooler.
Do I need to use ice packs in a backpack cooler?
While ice can help keep your snacks and beverages cold, it’s not always necessary. Many backpack coolers have built-in insulation to keep items cold for several hours without ice. However, if you plan to be out for an extended period, adding ice can help ensure your items stay cold.
Are backpack coolers suitable for a day at the beach?
Absolutely! Most backpack coolers are an excellent choice for a day at the beach. They are designed to be portable, lightweight, and convenient, allowing you to keep beverages cold and snacks hands-free.
While they don’t typically include beach chairs and umbrellas, backpack coolers offer the advantage of freeing up your hands to carry other beach essentials, such as chairs, umbrellas, towels, or beach toys.
Using a backpack cooler, you can easily transport your refreshments while having the flexibility to bring additional items like a beach chair and umbrella, ensuring you have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable beach outing.
Should you invest in hard-sided coolers or soft coolers?
Choosing between hard-sided and soft coolers depends on what you need. Hard-sided coolers keep things colder for longer and are tough.
They are ideal for longer trips or when you need extra protection. In addition, they are also easy to clean and can double as a seat or table.
On the flip, soft coolers are lighter and easier to carry. They are perfect for shorter outings or when moving around a lot. These coolers often have handy features like pockets and adjustable straps.
Think about what’s most important to you: keeping things cold for a long time or having something light and easy to carry. Then, pick the cooler that fits your needs best!
How do you protect your backpack from melted ice?
Here are a few simple things you can do to protect your backpack from melted ice. First, choose a cooler with a good seal to stop leaks and keep water from getting into your bag.
If you have items like electronics or important papers that could be damaged by water, it’s a good idea to put them in waterproof bags or containers before you place them in the cooler.
Another tip is to drain any extra water from melted ice. This stops the cooler from getting too full and leaking. You might also want to use reusable ice packs instead of regular ice cubes. They don’t melt as fast, so there’s less water.
Put heavier or more delicate things on the cooler when packing your bag. This way, if there is any leaking, it’s less likely to damage your stuff. These simple steps can help keep your backpack dry and your belongings safe outdoors.
Discover Beach Bliss with FloridaSplendors: Follow Us Now!
🏖️ Facebook: Dive into our beach community! Join us on Facebook.
📸 Instagram: Immerse yourself in coastal beauty. Follow @floridasplendors on Instagram for breathtaking beach moments.
📍 Pinterest: Unleash your beach inspiration! Explore our boards on Pinterest.
🐦 Twitter: Stay up to date with beach buzz in 280 characters or less. Follow @FloridaSplendor on Twitter.
Join us on social media for engaging content, product reviews, and a passionate community. Embrace beach life with FloridaSplendors! 🌴🌊