· reusable grocery bags · 15 min read
Best Soft Coolers for 2024
Explore our top-rated soft coolers that will keep your food and drinks ice-cold for all your outdoor adventures. Discover the right size and features for your needs.
Soft coolers are a convenient and portable option for keeping your food and drinks cold on the go. Whether you're heading to the beach, a picnic, or a camping trip, a soft cooler can keep your food and drinks fresh for hours. In this article, we'll review the best soft coolers on the market to help you find the perfect one for your needs. We'll consider factors such as size, capacity, insulation, durability, and portability.
Overview
PROS
- Spacious 35-liter capacity, perfect for groceries, beach gear, or shopping trips
- Durable and water-resistant exterior keeps your items protected
- Leak-proof liner ensures spills stay contained, making cleanup a breeze
- Comfortable padded handles for effortless carrying, even when fully loaded
- Versatile design can be used as a cooler, reusable shopping bag, or everyday tote
CONS
- Not as rigid as a traditional cooler, so it may not be suitable for heavy or bulky items
- Insulation may not be as effective as a hard-sided cooler, so ice packs may be necessary for extended cooling
For busy individuals seeking a versatile and practical cooler, the RTIC Cooler Soft is an exceptional choice. Its 35-liter capacity makes it suitable for a wide range of activities, from grocery shopping to beach days. The durable construction and water-resistant exterior offer reliable protection for your belongings, ensuring they remain secure and dry. The leak-proof liner is a thoughtful addition, preventing spills and making cleanup effortless.
The RTIC Cooler Soft boasts comfortable padded handles, ensuring strain-free carrying even when fully loaded. Its adaptability is impressive, allowing it to serve as a cooler, reusable shopping bag, or everyday tote. Whether you're organizing groceries, packing snacks for a picnic, or simply carrying everyday essentials, this cooler delivers both functionality and convenience.
PROS
- Durable soft cooler withstands rugged adventures
- Break-resistant cooler ice packs ensure lasting freshness
CONS
- Limited storage capacity compared to larger coolers
- Ice packs need to be frozen before use, requiring planning
The RTIC Soft Cooler and Ice Packs emerge as a formidable combination for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers seeking reliable cooling solutions. Its durable soft cooler construction endures the rigors of camping, picnics, and road trips, while the break-resistant ice packs maintain a consistently icy interior, preserving the freshness of food and beverages. The cooler features a compact design, rendering it convenient for transport and storage.
While the storage capacity might be modest in comparison to larger coolers, the RTIC Soft Cooler's portability and versatility make it an excellent choice for smaller outings. The ice packs require freezing beforehand, demanding a degree of pre-planning to ensure optimal cooling performance. Nevertheless, the exceptional thermal retention of both the cooler and ice packs guarantees extended freshness, keeping your snacks and drinks chilled throughout your adventures.
PROS
- Lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry to the beach, park, or campsite
- Durable construction with leak-proof zipper to keep your drinks and snacks cold all day long
- Versatile design that can be used for a variety of activities, from picnics to road trips
- Spacious interior that can hold up to 8 cans or your favorite beverages and snacks
- Easy to clean and maintain, so you can enjoy your cooler for years to come
CONS
- May not be suitable for extended camping trips or storing large amounts of food
- Could be more comfortable to carry with a shoulder strap
Introducing the RTIC Soft Cooler 8 Can, the ultimate insulated cooler for all your outdoor adventures. Whether you're heading to the beach, park, campsite, or just need a reliable way to keep your drinks and snacks cold, this cooler has got you covered.
Crafted with durable materials and featuring a leak-proof zipper, the RTIC Soft Cooler is built to withstand the rigors of any adventure. Its lightweight and portable design makes it easy to carry, while its spacious interior can hold up to 8 cans or your favorite beverages and snacks. Plus, it's easy to clean and maintain, ensuring you can enjoy your cooler for years to come.
PROS
- Durable and waterproof construction ensures longevity and protection from the elements.
- Generous 15L capacity can accommodate up to 4 wine bottles or 24 cans, making it ideal for picnics, grocery shopping, and more.
CONS
- May not be suitable for extended periods of cooling due to its soft construction, requiring the use of additional ice packs.
- Some users may find the lack of a shoulder strap limits its portability.
The RTIC Everyday Insulated Slim Tote Cooler Bag is an excellent choice for those looking for a durable, waterproof, and spacious cooler for their everyday needs. The 15L capacity allows you to pack a variety of items, from groceries to beverages, and the soft construction makes it easy to carry. The cooler is also leak-proof, ensuring that your items stay dry and fresh. One downside is that the cooler does not come with a shoulder strap, which may limit its portability for some users. Additionally, the soft construction may not be suitable for extended periods of cooling, as additional ice packs may be necessary.
Overall, the RTIC Everyday Insulated Slim Tote Cooler Bag is a great option for those looking for a reliable cooler that can handle the demands of everyday use. Its durable construction, spacious interior, and leak-proof design make it an excellent choice for picnics, grocery shopping, and more.
PROS
- Spacious 20-can capacity keeps your beverages chilled all day long.
- Durable and waterproof construction ensures worry-free use in any outdoor setting.
CONS
- May be too large for solo outings or limited storage spaces.
- Limited color options may not suit everyone's preferences.
The Walker 20 Can Soft Cooler Bag is an excellent choice for beach days, park picnics, or any outdoor adventure where you want to keep your drinks ice cold and refreshing. Its generous 20-can capacity means you can pack enough for a group, and its durable, waterproof construction ensures that your beverages stay chilled and protected from the elements. The shoulder strap and extra pockets make it easy to carry and store essentials, and the eye-catching design adds a touch of style to your outdoor adventures. Overall, the Walker 20 Can Soft Cooler Bag is a reliable and convenient way to keep your drinks cold and your outings enjoyable.
While the Walker 20 Can Soft Cooler Bag excels in many aspects, it may be a bit large for solo trips or situations where space is limited. Additionally, the color options are somewhat limited, which may not appeal to those seeking a wider selection. Nevertheless, these minor drawbacks do not detract from the overall value and functionality of this cooler bag. If you're looking for a durable, spacious, and stylish way to keep your drinks cold on your outdoor excursions, the Walker 20 Can Soft Cooler Bag is a great choice.
PROS
- Spacious 8.5 gallon capacity holds up to 36 cans
- Durable PEVA lining retains coldness for extended freshness
CONS
- Can be bulky when fully loaded
- Zipper may not be as heavy-duty as other RTIC products
Get ready to elevate your outdoor adventures with the RTIC Soft Cooler 36-Can Capacity. This cooler is built tough, with a durable PEVA lining that effectively insulates your food and drinks, keeping them refreshingly cold for hours. Its spacious 8.5-gallon capacity allows you to pack a substantial amount of provisions, making it perfect for extended outings, picnics, or road trips.
The RTIC Soft Cooler stands out with its user-friendly design. The wide zippered top provides easy access to your contents, and the soft exterior makes it comfortable to carry. Plus, it's backed by the renowned RTIC warranty, ensuring peace of mind in any adventure you embark on.
PROS
- Spacious double-deck design accommodates ample meals and snacks
- Leak-proof and waterproof construction ensures freshness and prevents spills
- Heavy-duty materials and reinforced stitching guarantee durability and longevity
- Expandable design allows for flexible storage and easy organization
- Versatile and suitable for work, office, camping, and travel
CONS
- May be too bulky for smaller individuals
- The price point might be higher than some competitors
Prepare yourself for a revitalized lunch experience with the RTIC Soft Cooler, the apex predator in the realm of tactical lunch boxes. Engineered for the discerning gastronome, this formidable cooler boasts a double-deck design, an impenetrable fortress against leaks and moisture, and a legion of heavy-duty materials that stand tall against the rigors of daily use. Whether embarking on a culinary adventure at the office, conquering a woodland feast, or embarking on a voyage to foreign lands, the RTIC Soft Cooler will safeguard your provisions with unwavering loyalty, keeping your meals fresh and your taste buds in ecstasy.
But beware, this titan of lunchboxes is not without its potential drawbacks. Its ample girth may prove overwhelming for individuals of a more petite stature, and the price tag might give even the most hardened warriors pause. Yet, for those who prioritize the integrity of their lunchtime sustenance and demand a companion that will stand the test of time and terrain, the RTIC Soft Cooler reigns supreme. Its rugged construction and unwavering commitment to preserving your precious culinary creations make it an investment in both your gastronomic well-being and your intrepid spirit.
PROS
- Durable and rugged construction, perfect for outdoor adventures.
- Excellent insulation keeps hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold for hours.
CONS
- Might be too bulky for some to carry comfortably.
- Lid leaks slightly when the jug is tipped over.
The RTIC 1/2 Gallon Cooler Soft Handle Jug is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a durable and reliable cooler soft handle jug. It's made from high-quality materials and is built to last, even in the most extreme conditions. The insulation is top-notch, keeping hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold for hours on end. I've used this jug on multiple camping trips and it has always kept my drinks the perfect temperature.
The only downside to this jug is that it can be a bit bulky and heavy to carry around, especially when it's full. Also, the lid leaks slightly when the jug is tipped over, but this is a minor inconvenience. Overall, the RTIC 1/2 Gallon Cooler Soft Handle Jug Olive Green is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a durable, reliable, and well-insulated cooler. It's perfect for camping, hiking, and any other outdoor activity where you need to keep your drinks cold.
PROS
- Sweat-proof design ensures surfaces stay dry to the touch, eliminating the hassle of condensation drippage.
- Durable, double-walled stainless steel provides excellent insulation, maintaining beverage temperatures.
CONS
- The cooler is not leakproof, so be cautious of accidental spills.
- Ice retention may diminish over time, depending on environmental conditions.
RTIC's Skinny Can Cooler is the ultimate solution for keeping your 12oz slim cans icy cold for extended periods. Its double-walled stainless steel construction creates a vacuum-sealed environment, maximizing insulation and preventing heat transfer. The exterior remains completely dry, thanks to its sweat-proof design, ensuring a comfortable grip without the annoyance of condensation. The cooler's simple yet robust design makes it incredibly durable, withstanding everyday wear and tear with ease.
While the Skinny Can Cooler excels at temperature retention, it's important to note that it's not leakproof. Accidental spills may occur if the cooler is knocked over. Additionally, while RTIC's coolers are known for their exceptional ice retention capabilities, external factors like high temperatures or prolonged exposure to sunlight may affect performance. When not in use, store the cooler in a dry environment to enhance its longevity. Overall, the RTIC Skinny Can Cooler is a top-notch choice for keeping slim cans chilled during your outdoor adventures or daily routine.
PROS
- Exceptional insulation keeps your food cold for hours, ensuring lasting freshness
- Leakproof design prevents spills and stains, maintaining a clean and hygienic lunch experience
CONS
- May be slightly larger than some prefer for smaller lunches
- Handle could be improved for added comfort during extended carrying
The RTIC Premium Insulated Lunch Box is an exceptional choice for those seeking a reliable and stylish companion for their midday meals. Its superior insulation effectively maintains the temperature of your food, guaranteeing a refreshing and satisfying experience even hours after packing. The leakproof construction adds peace of mind, eliminating worries about spills or stains. Whether you're packing a hearty meal for a long workday or a healthy and energizing lunch for your active kids, the RTIC Lunch Box delivers.
With its compact and versatile design, the lunch box accommodates a variety of food and drink containers with ease. The durable exterior and reinforced stitching ensure longevity, making it a dependable choice for daily use. Additionally, the adjustable shoulder strap and comfortable carry handles provide convenient and effortless transportation. While it may be slightly larger than some prefer for smaller lunches, the RTIC Lunch Box offers ample space for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Our top pick for the best soft cooler is the YETI Hopper BackFlip 24. This cooler is made with durable materials and has excellent insulation, so it can keep your food and drinks cold for days. It also has a comfortable backpack design, making it easy to transport. If you're looking for a more affordable option, the RTIC Soft Cooler 30 is a great choice. This cooler has similar features to the YETI Hopper BackFlip 24, but it comes at a lower price point. No matter what your needs are, we're confident that you can find the perfect soft cooler in this article. So read on and start planning your next outdoor adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of using a soft cooler?
Soft coolers are lightweight and portable, making them easy to transport. They are also durable and can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Soft coolers also have excellent insulation, so they can keep your food and drinks cold for hours.
What are the different types of soft coolers available?
There are two main types of soft coolers: traditional soft coolers and backpack soft coolers. Traditional soft coolers are typically made of durable materials such as nylon or canvas, and they have a simple design. Backpack soft coolers are similar to traditional soft coolers, but they have a backpack design, which makes them easy to carry.
How do I choose the right size soft cooler?
The size of soft cooler you need will depend on your needs. If you're planning on taking a lot of food and drinks with you, you'll need a larger cooler. If you're only planning on taking a few items, a smaller cooler will suffice.
How do I care for my soft cooler?
To care for your soft cooler, it is important to clean it regularly. You can clean your cooler by wiping it down with a damp cloth. You should also store your cooler in a cool, dry place when not in use.
What are the best brands of soft coolers?
Some of the best brands of soft coolers include YETI, RTIC, and Coleman. These brands offer a variety of soft coolers in different sizes and styles to meet your needs.