Gone are the days of lugging heavy, bulky hard coolers to your tailgate or beach day. Modern soft coolers offer incredible ice retention and rugged durability in a flexible, easy-to-carry package. Whether you need a simple lunch tote for work or a high-capacity cooler for a weekend adventure, there’s a portable option designed to make transport effortless and keep your refreshments perfectly chilled.
Choosing the right one depends on your specific needs—capacity, insulation performance, special features, and overall portability. From premium brands known for legendary cold-holding to innovative designs that collapse for storage, the market is full of excellent choices. This roundup highlights eight of the best soft coolers available, each offering a unique set of benefits for easy transport wherever your plans take you.
Our Recommended Soft Coolers for Easy Transport
- YETI Hopper Flip 12 Portable Cooler
- eBags Crew Cooler II Soft Sided Insulated Lunch Box
- AO Coolers Original Soft-Sided Cooler Bag
- CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag
- Titan by Arctic Zone 30 Can Zipperless Soft Cooler
- YETI Hopper M30 Soft Cooler Backpack
- RTIC Soft Pack Cooler 30
- Igloo Iceless Thermo-Electric Cooler
YETI Hopper Flip 12 Portable Cooler
The YETI Hopper Flip 12 is a premium compact cooler built for serious performance. Its ColdCell insulation, a closed-cell foam, provides superior cold retention compared to many standard soft-sided models. This makes it a reliable choice for day trips where keeping drinks and perishables cold is a priority.
Durability is a key feature, with a waterproof and puncture-resistant DryHide shell. The HydroLok Zipper is fully leakproof, giving you confidence whether the cooler is in your car or by your side on a boat. With a capacity for about 12 cans plus ice, it’s an ideal size for personal use or small group outings.
eBags Crew Cooler II Soft Sided Insulated Lunch Box
Designed for daily commutes and short trips, the eBags Crew Cooler II functions perfectly as an insulated lunch box. Its soft-sided construction is easy to carry and fits neatly into a larger bag or under a desk. The insulation is effective for keeping your meal fresh from home to the office or during travel.
This model is noted for its practical organization and professional look. It’s a versatile option for workdays, weekend errands, or as a dedicated snack bag for kids. The sturdy build and reliable performance make it a useful tool for anyone needing a simple, portable cooling solution.
AO Coolers Original Soft-Sided Cooler Bag
The AO Coolers Original is a classic, straightforward soft cooler that gets the job done. It includes a removable shoulder strap for easy hands-free transport, which is a major benefit for activities like fishing, hiking, or navigating a crowded sporting event. Its 12-can capacity is suitable for picnics and small gatherings.
This cooler includes a handy side pocket for storing items that don’t need refrigeration, such as utensils, napkins, or a phone. Its lightweight and simple design make it an economical and reliable choice for casual use where extreme ice retention is less critical than convenience and portability.
CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag
The CleverMade Collapsible Cooler stands out with its impressive 50-can capacity and unique folding design. When open, the patented Snap Hinge system provides structured support, giving it a more rigid shape similar to a hard cooler. When empty, it collapses flat for incredibly convenient storage in a closet or car trunk.
This makes it an excellent option for those with limited storage space who still need a large cooler for parties, beach days, or sports tournaments. It includes useful extras like a bottle opener and storage pockets. Its versatility as both a high-capacity cooler and a space-saving item is a significant advantage.
Titan by Arctic Zone 30 Can Zipperless Soft Cooler
The Titan cooler introduces a clever zipperless design with a flip-open lid for quick and easy access. It features Deep Freeze Performance Insulation, which includes a radiant heat barrier, and is reported to keep ice for up to three days. This makes it a strong performer for extended outings like camping or multi-day tailgates.
A key feature is the removable HardBody liner with a SmartShelf divider. This shelf helps organize contents and prevents softer items from being crushed by heavier bottles or cans. The combination of high-performance insulation, durable construction, and thoughtful organization makes this a feature-packed choice.
YETI Hopper M30 Soft Cooler Backpack
The YETI Hopper M30 takes portability to the next level with its backpack design. This allows for completely hands-free transport, which is ideal for activities where you need mobility, such as kayaking, biking, or hiking to a remote fishing spot. It offers the same legendary YETI insulation and build quality in a versatile form factor.
Expect the same durable, waterproof materials and the secure, leakproof HydroLok Zipper found on other YETI Hoppers. The backpack straps are designed for comfort even when the cooler is fully loaded. For adventurers who need to carry their cooling capacity on their back, this model is a top-tier solution.
RTIC Soft Pack Cooler 30
The RTIC Soft Pack Cooler 30 is known for offering exceptional value and performance, often compared directly to premium brands. It provides robust insulation capable of keeping ice for multiple days, making it suitable for weekend trips. The construction is tough, with reinforced stitching and durable materials designed to handle outdoor use.
It features a wide-opening zipper for easy packing and access, along with comfortable carrying straps. As a mid-sized cooler with a 30-can capacity, it strikes a good balance between volume and portability for families or small groups. It’s a practical choice for those seeking high cold-holding performance without the highest price tag.
Igloo Iceless Thermo-Electric Cooler
This Igloo model is a unique entry as a thermo-electric cooler, meaning it plugs into a 12V DC car outlet or a standard AC wall outlet to cool its contents without any ice. This “iceless” operation is a major convenience for road trips, hotel stays, or use in an office, eliminating the mess of melted ice and the need to buy it.
With a 26-quart capacity, it can hold a substantial amount of food and drinks. It can also function as a warmer. This type of cooler is perfect for situations where you have reliable access to power and prefer a set-and-forget cooling method that maintains a consistent temperature for extended periods.
What to Look For in the Best Soft Coolers for Easy Transport
When I’m picking out a soft cooler, my main goal is finding something that won’t fight me on the way to the beach, tailgate, or campsite. It’s all about balancing insulation, durability, and, most importantly, portability. The best soft coolers for easy transport share a few key traits that make life simpler.
First, let’s talk about the carry system. This is the biggest factor for me. A single flimsy strap just doesn’t cut it for heavier loads. I look for models with either two padded shoulder straps for a backpack-style carry or a well-designed, padded single strap that can be worn messenger-style. For shorter hauls, sturdy top handles are a must. The best ones distribute weight evenly so a full cooler doesn’t feel like you’re lugging a bag of bricks.
Next up is size and weight when empty. A soft cooler’s advantage is its flexibility, but if it’s a tank before you even pack it, you’ve lost the plot. I check the dimensions and the empty weight. A good one is light enough to carry comfortably but uses robust, puncture-resistant materials like TPU-laminated nylon or polyester. The zippers should be sturdy, preferably rubberized or corrosion-resistant, and the seams should be welded or heavily stitched to prevent leaks.
Insulation performance is non-negotiable. I don’t expect week-long ice retention like a hard roto-molded cooler, but a good soft cooler should keep things cold for 24-48 hours with proper ice packs. Look for thick, closed-cell foam insulation in the walls and lid. A leak-proof, easy-to-clean liner is also a huge bonus for quick cleanups after the trip.
Finally, I consider the extra features that aid transport. Does it have exterior pockets for dry storage? Are there daisy chains or gear loops to lash it to a kayak or golf cart? Is the base reinforced with a hard panel to protect it when you set it down on rough ground? These little additions can make a big difference in real-world use. By focusing on these aspects—the carry system, manageable weight, durable construction, solid insulation, and helpful features—you’ll find a soft cooler that truly makes transport easy.
FAQ
How long can I expect ice to last in a high-quality soft cooler?
With a premium soft cooler packed correctly using pre-chilled items and ice packs (or block ice), you can realistically expect ice retention for about 24 to 48 hours. It won’t match the performance of a heavy-duty hard cooler, but it’s perfect for day trips, beach outings, or a weekend camping trip. The key is to pre-chill the cooler itself for an hour before packing and to minimize how often you open it.
Are soft coolers actually waterproof?
Most are water-resistant, not fully waterproof. They can handle splashes, rain, and wet ground, but submerging them in a lake or pool will likely lead to leaks. The seams and zippers are the usual weak points. Look for models with welded seams and waterproof zipper flaps for the best protection against spills and the elements.
What’s the best way to clean and dry a soft cooler?
After each use, I wipe down the interior liner with a mild soap solution and a soft cloth. For stubborn smells, a baking soda paste or a vinegar-water spray works wonders. It’s crucial to air dry it completely with the lid open before storing it to prevent mold and mildew. Never machine wash or dry it, as this can destroy the insulation and seals.
Can I check a soft cooler as airline luggage?
You can, but it’s risky. I’d only do it with an extremely durable model designed for rough handling. Empty it completely, ensure it’s completely dry, and consider putting it inside a larger duffel bag for extra protection. Always check your specific airline’s policies on coolers, especially regarding any residual ice or gel packs.
What size soft cooler do I need for a group?
For a group of 4-6 people, a 24-30 can capacity is a great starting point. It holds enough drinks and food for a full day. For just myself or a couple, a 12-18 can size is more manageable and easier to transport. Remember, the listed can capacity is a best-case scenario; once you add ice packs and food, the actual space for cans decreases.
Is a backpack cooler worth it over a traditional shoulder strap style?
If your adventures involve any amount of walking over uneven terrain—like hiking to a fishing spot, navigating a crowded festival, or biking—a backpack-style cooler is a game-changer. It frees up your hands and distributes weight across your back, making it one of the best soft coolers for easy transport in active scenarios. For simple car-to-picnic-table trips, a shoulder strap might be just fine.