15 Best Cooler Bags For All Seasons 2024, As Per A Fashion Stylist

It's getting hot in here, so keep your drinks and food cool and refreshing.

Reviewed by Michelle Wagman, Fashion Stylist
Written by Shreya Vishwanathan, MSc
Edited by Medha Deb, Integrated MA
Fact-checked by Aditi Naskar, MA (English Literature), Diploma In Health & Wellness  • 

With summer approaching, people mostly prefer going out to indulge themselves in outdoor activities like camping or going for a picnic at the beach or seaside. And it is a good idea to invest in the best cooler bag for such outings, as they keep your food and drinks chilled and get you ready to take on motherhood. Some coolers also double up as chairs or tables. We have listed the best cooler bags available on the market. Read on to know more!

Top Picks
Check Price
Best Insulation:Arctic Zone Freeze Zipperless HardBody
Price on Amazon
Best Anti-Leakage:Coleman 16 Can Soft Cooler
Price on Amazon
Best Lightweight:Carhartt Deluxe Compartment Insulated Cooler
Price on Amazon
Best Antimicrobial:Coleman C003 Soft Backpack Cooler
Price on Amazon
Best Tear-Proof:Polar Bear Nylon Soft Coolers
Price on Amazon
Best Versatile:CleverMade Collapsible 50 Can Soft Sided Cooler Bag
Price on Amazon
Best For Flight Crew:eBags Crew Cooler II Soft-Sided Insulated Lunch Box
Price on Amazon
Best Adjustable Straps:Coleman NFL 9 Can Soft-Sided Insulated Cooler and Lunch Box Bag
Price on Amazon
Best Affordable :Rachael Ray Jumbo ChillOut Thermal Tote
Price on Amazon
Best Durable:AO Coolers Original Soft Cooler With High-Density Insulation
Price on Amazon

15 Best Soft-Sided Cooler Bags

1. Best Insulation:Arctic Zone Freeze Zipperless HardBody

4.5
Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze Zipperless Hardbody Coolers - Sizes: 9, 16, 30 and 48 Can - Colors: Navy, Moss, Process Blue, Pine, Citrus, Gray, Blue Lagoon Moss 30 Can Image: Arctic Zone

While you are camping, you will want to access your food and beverages quickly, right? Then the Arctic Zone Freeze Zipperless HardBody is for you! This zipperless cooler bag prevents heat from entering inside, thereby keeping the contents inside the bag cool for a long time and gives premium cooling performance. This insulated beverage cooler bag also comes with a SmartShelf detail, which separates your food from all other contents of the bag. This leak-proof cooler bag is easy to carry as it comes with adjustable shoulder pads and is also easier to clean. It has garnered several positive reviews online for its functionality, storage capacity, and adjustability.

Key Features:

  • Radiant heat barrier
  • Deep Freeze high-performance thermal insulation
  • Flip-open Zipperless lid (patented)
  • Includes insulated front pocket
  • Removable SmartShelf that separates food from drinks
Number of Items: ‎1 | Product Dimensions: ‎11"D x 16.5"W x 12.25"H | Material: ‎200x300D/112T Poly Ripstop w/ 0.15mm MATTE TPE exterior coating | Color: ‎Moss

Pros

  • Available in different sizes
  • Quick access
  • Leak-proof lining
  • Easy to clean
  • Water and stain repellent

Cons

  • No separate compartments for hots and colds

Our Tester's Experience

"It's large, durable, yet lightweight with extra pockets. It is easy to clean and has a removable liner that enhances its insulation. My favorite feature is the separate tray, great for diverse items or items at different temperatures. The Velcro closure makes access hassle-free. Quite a versatile purchase that doesn't compromise on quality."


2. Best Anti-Leakage:Coleman 16 Can Soft Cooler

4.5
Coleman 16 Can Soft Cooler Blue Image: Coleman

The Coleman 16 Can Cooler is the best cooler bag you can take if you are going camping. The plastic liner in this travel-friendly cooler bag is made from a top-quality insulating material, thus ensuring that your beverages remain cold, and you don’t have to be worried about carrying around your breastmilk. The bag comes with an adjustable shoulder strap that is easy-to-lug. This bag also comes with multiple pockets that are capable of holding 16 cans. The bag with its reinforced seams has been designed to prevent leakage and fungus.

Key Features

  • Adjustable shoulder strap makes this bag easy to carry around
  • Multiple pockets to hold smaller items
  • Can hold 16 cans
  • Prevents leakage and fungus
Number of Items: ‎1 | Product Dimensions: ‎11"D x 16.5"W x 12.25"H | Material: ‎200x300D/112T Poly Ripstop w/ 0.15mm MATTE TPE exterior coating | Color: ‎Moss

Pros

  • Customizable strap
  • Leak-proof
  • Heat-welded seams
  • Removable plastic insert
  • Available in different colors

Cons

  • May have some quality issues

protip_icon Did You Know?
Igloo Corporation invented the first cooler bag in 1954.

3. Best Lightweight:Carhartt Deluxe Compartment Insulated Cooler

4.7
Carhartt Deluxe Dual Compartment Insulated Lunch Cooler Bag, Carhartt Brown Image: Carhartt

Long weekends mean only one thing, night out with your besties! If you have this planned out, you know you have to carry the Carhartt Deluxe Compartment Insulated Cooler! This well-insulated cooler bag is perfect for carrying beverage cans as well as snacks as it keeps them fresh for a long time. The best feature of this travel cooler bag is that it includes a zippered compartment in the front that is perfect for keeping condiments and cutlery. As per reviewers’ experiences, it provides excellent insulation and durability, keeping items cool for a longer time. It comes with a convenient top handle. The water-resistant cooler bag equipped with YKK zippers makes it a highly attractive travel companion!

Key Features:

  • Water-resistant material
  • YKK Zippers that add to the durability of this bag
  • Easy to haul with shoulder strap and top handle
  • Not heavy
  • Spacious main compartment
  • Affordable and looks attractive
Product Dimensions: ‎10"L x 9"W x 7"H | Number of Items: ‎1 | Shape: ‎Rectangular | Item Weight: ‎9.8 Ounces | Material: ‎Polyester, Metal | Color: ‎Carhartt Brown.

Pros

  • Durable
  • Easy to carry
  • Easy to clean
  • Triple-needle stitching
  • Water-resistant
  • Front zippered pocket

Cons

  • May stain

Our Tester's Experience

"This cooler bag has been a reliable companion on workdays and trips. It's not waterproof but, still works great. One gripe: it has a fixed strap. If you carry a frozen water bottle, it keeps the contents cool all day. The various compartments allow me to store everything. Great for daily use and long-lasting!"


4. Best Antimicrobial:Coleman C003 Soft Backpack Cooler

Carrying snacks for a day at the park never felt easier! The widely popular Coleman C003 Soft Backpack Cooler is one of the best cooler bags to invest in. Coupled with antimicrobial properties that resist mildew, a zipped front, and adjustable padded shoulder straps, this is a must-have for everyone for keeping items chilled! The heat-welded seams are padded near the waist, making it easy to carry your beverages around. It is also the best baby bottle cooler bag on the market. This ice chest bag can hold 28 cans, is leak-resistant, and is the best thing to take with you for picnics.

Key Features

  • Antimicrobial properties resist mildewT
  • he zipped front lets you keep more snacks or other essential things
  • Adjustable straps are padded to provide comfort
  • Padding near waist and bag makes it easier to carry
  • Prevents leakage
Product Dimensions: ‎1.78"D x 14.76"W x 19.38"H | Item Weight: ‎17 Ounces | Color: ‎Khaki

Pros

  • Leak-proof
  • Adjustable straps
  • Quick-access front pocket
  • Easy to carry
  • Antimicrobial liner

Cons

  • The shoulder straps are far apart.

Our Tester's Experience

"Take my word for it, this bag is completely reliable when it comes to durability. It can keep the drinks cold for long hours and can even sail through a hot car's interior. Its strength is exceptional as I've witnessed it remain resilient for outdoor activities over the years. The extra storage in pouches comes in handy. It is ideal to carry for sports events to store cold drinks and cooling towels. The bag is a trustworthy companion."


5. Best Tear-Proof:Polar Bear Nylon Soft Coolers

4.4
Polar Bear Coolers 24 Pack Original Nylon Soft Cooler 24 Pack Black Image: Polar Bear Coolers

Designed with a nylon outer shell, the Polar Bear Cooler bag is an ideal choice for anyone who wishes to take a trip in the wilderness. The soft cooler bag, lined with high-density foam insulation, showcases superior craftsmanship while keeping your drinks and snacks fresh. The heavy-duty zipper reduces the chance of breakage and keeps all the contents of the bag safe. The resilient double-helmed anchor seams are tear-proof, and the zippered exterior pockets make it easier for you to carry keys and items such as cutlery safely everywhere on your trip. The product has gotten rave reviews for its sturdiness and durability as well as long-time effective cooling.

Key Features–

  • Lined with high-density foam insulation
  • Heavy-duty zipper reducing the chance of breakage
  • Nylon outer shell
  • Resilient double-helmed anchor seams
  • Zippered side pocket
Product Dimensions: ‎10"D x 18"W x 12"H | Insulation Material: ‎nylon,tpu | Item Weight: ‎3 Pounds | Material: ‎Nylon | Color: ‎Black

Pros

  • Made of food-grade material
  • Durable
  • Rust-proof zipper
  • Adjustable shoulder strap
  • 4 heavy duty tie-downs
  • Leak-proof

Cons

None

Our Tester's Experience

"I found the bag fairly solid, boasting good insulation. I love that it retained half the ice after 4 hours even in hot weather - impressive! It is ideal for packing cans. Overall, quite a satisfactory purchase!"


protip_icon Quick Tip
Hand-wash the bag in a sink or a bucket with mild detergent and warm water. Use a soft brush to remove any stubborn dirt or stains. Rinse the bag with clean water and allow it to air dry.

6. Best Versatile:CleverMade Collapsible 50 Can Soft Sided Cooler Bag

4.5

Are you clueless about what to pack your picnic food in? The CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag is just what you are looking for! The portable cooler bag with spacious interior ensures that the food you packed remains fresh throughout the day. Carry this versatile cooler bag on lunches and road trips or use it to store household tools and cutlery. It is also a beach party essential, and a favorite among reviewers online for its portability!

Key Features:

  • Can carry 50 cans
  • Built-in bottle opener
  • Durable
Product Dimensions: ‎12.25"D x 18.25"W x 12"H | Item Weight: ‎2 Pounds | Material: ‎Polyester | Color: ‎Heathered Charcoal / Black

Pros

  • Collapsible design
  • Leak-proof
  • Easy to carry
  • Durable
  • Spacious
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Not very long-lasting cooling

Our Tester's Experience

"I really like the size of this cooler bag and how portable it is, making it a great fit for picnics and travels. It keeps items chilled even during a lengthy drive."


7. Best For Flight Crew:eBags Crew Cooler II Soft-Sided Insulated Lunch Box

4.6

The eBags Crew Cooler Lunch Box was originally designed to meet the needs of pilots and flight attendants. The separate compartments for perishables and non-perishables allows you to carry them separately and avoid any accidents. It comes with zipped, meshed pockets that can be used for storing napkins and other small essentials. It also comes with a removable liner. If you wish to have fresh meals in the refreshing air of camping grounds or the beach, then investing in this bag is a great idea!

Key Features:

  • Separate compartments for perishables and non-perishables
  • Meshed pockets that are zipped for storing napkins
  • Bottom compartment welded with PVC-free PEVA liner that is replaceable
Item Weight: 6.4 ounces | Product Dimensions: 8.46"D x 14.96"W x 10.43"H | Insulation Material: peva | Material: Nylon | Color: Black

Pros

  • Easy to access
  • Ideal for heavy-duty use
  • Suitable for everyday use

Cons

  • The shoulder strap may slide off.

Our Tester's Experience

"I have been using this bag for years and it impresses me with its durability and versatility. It carries all my food with room for accessories, with removable liners for easy cleanup. It keeps the contents cool for long periods. If you take proper care, it will surely last you an eternity!"


Why We Think It's Worth Buying

The product has more than 2,492 reviews claiming its efficacy.

8. Best Adjustable Straps:Coleman NFL 9 Can Soft-Sided Insulated Cooler and Lunch Box Bag

Hours of staying in the stadium to support your favorite sports star can get the best of you. But if you carry the Coleman NFL Soft-Sided Insulated Cooler and Lunch Box Bag, you can replenish while you enjoy the game. This cooler bag is anti-bacterial, comes with adjustable straps, and the lasting temperature protection of this portable ice chest makes it easy for you to root for your team as long as you want without worry!

Key Features:

  • Anti-bacterial
  • Lasting temperature protection
  • Adjustable straps
Item Weight: 6.4 ounces | Product Dimensions: 8.46"D x 14.96"W x 10.43"H | Insulation Material: peva | Material: Nylon | Color: Black

Pros

  • Suitable for daily use
  • Adjustable straps
  • Lightweight
  • Compact
  • Mold-resistant
  • Easy to clean

Cons

  • Less pockets

9. Best Affordable:Rachael Ray Jumbo ChillOut Thermal Tote

Do you want to keep your groceries or food at the exact temperature you bought them in? This Rachael Ray Jumbo ChillOut Thermal Tote is the best at a reasonable price. This fantastic cooler tote bag comes with a 10-gallon capacity and is designed using Triple-Tek insulation foam that makes it easy to carry both hot and cold products. The sealed seams lining makes this bag anti-leakage and prevents bacteria from growing inside the bag. It has an easy-to-carry design for convenience.

Key Features

  • Very large with 10-gallon capacity
  • Built using Triple-Tek insulation foam
  • Sealed seams lining prevent leakage
  • The material of the bag prevents bacteria from growing inside it
Item Weight: 6.4 ounces | Product Dimensions: 8.46"D x 14.96"W x 10.43"H | Insulation Material: peva | Material: Nylon | Color: Black

Pros

  • Compact and foldable
  • Suitable for hot and cold items
  • Easy to clean
  • Leak-proof
  • Non-toxic
  • Available in multiple colors

Cons

  • Not for daily use

10. Best Durable:AO Coolers Original Soft Cooler With High-Density Insulation

4.6
AO Coolers Original Soft Cooler with High-Density Insulation, Multiple Sizes and Colors Charcoal 36-can Image: Ao Coolers

The AO Coolers High-Density Insulation Charcoal cooler bag is the best thing to bring to a getaway in the woods! This sturdy and reliable cooler has a TPU liner that can keep ice from melting for 24 hours. It can also store about 14 pounds of ice and 24 cans. This bag is made from durable canvas material that will withstand the travel journeys you take up. The best part about it is the shoulder strap that can be removed and adjusted as per your convenience. The liner of the cooler is leak-resistant and meets the carry-on requirement of airlines. It also has a heat-sealed interior that makes it suitable for hot foods. Side pockets are available for storing other essentials making this bag a wise purchase.

Key Features

  • The shoulder strap can get removed or adjusted
  • Liner is leak-resistant
  • Side pocket available for storing small items
  • Meets the carry-on requirement of airlines
Item Weight: 3 pounds | Product Dimensions: 21 x 10 x 12 inches | Insulation Material: Tpu | Color: Charcoal

Pros

  • Removable shoulder strap
  • Easy-access side pocket
  • Suitable for hots and colds
  • Durable and sturdy
  • Leak-proof

Cons

  • The zipper quality is not up to the mark.

Our Tester's Experience

"This cooler bag is durable and versatile as it can easily endure daily use. I have been using it for three years. I find its extra storage and interior space quite thoughtful because it can accommodate multiple drinks and food with ease. The cooler is pretty easy to clean and leaves no lingering odors. Amazing product indeed!"


11. Best With Multiple Pockets:MOJECTO Large Cooler Bag

4.1
MOJECTO Large Cooler Bag. Two Insulated Compartment, Heavy Duty Fabric, Thick Insulation, 2 Heat Sealed Soft Peva Liner, Many Pockets, Strong Double Zipper, Padded Straps. for Men Women color Image: Mojecto

Do you want to enjoy hot food like home while you are out camping? Then MOJECTO Insulated Compartment Insulation Pockets is the cooler bag that you need. Its design includes thick foam insulation, tear-resistant polyester, and two replaceable thick-sealed PVA liners that make it a perfect buy for those looking for an insulated cooler bag. You will get an extra liner when you buy this in case you damage it and need to replace it with the same material. Reviews online love it for the ease of cleaning the bag.

Key Features

  • Two insulated compartments
  • Spacious compartments
  • Multiple pockets
  • More room can be created with expandable zippers on the side
Product Dimensions: ‎9"D x 15"W x 12"H | Insulation Material: ‎EPE Foam | Item Weight: ‎2 Pounds | Material: ‎Polyester | Color: ‎Color

Pros

  • Fade-proof
  • Tear-resistant
  • Long-lasting cooling
  • Strong zipper
  • Multiple pockets

Cons

  • Not durable

Our Tester's Experience

"I have owned this lunch bag for years, I value its roomy interior that beautifully holds a variety of essentials from a hefty water bottle to utensils. It's my constant companion on long work shifts or road trips with my family. It's durable, light for a cooler, with space even for iced snacks. It's a steadfast bag I'd recommend."


12. Best Leakproof:YETI Hopper Flip Portable Cooler

Sipping chilled beer or other beverages while relaxing on your fishing outing is something that everyone longs for. Supplement this experience by consuming snacks kept fresh in the YETI Hopper Flip Portable Cooler. This cooler bag provides easy access to the contents within because of its wide mouth. This bag cooler can easily hold up to 13 cans on a 2/3rd portion of ice.

Key Features

  • Leak-proof material is used to make this bag
  • Prevents mildew
  • Tough exteriors resist abrasions and punctures
  • feature of superior cold-holding with the help of Coldcell Insulation Technique
Number of Items: ‎1 | Product Dimensions: ‎10"D x 12.63"W x 11.5"H | Insulation Material: ‎Foam | Item Weight: ‎1.7 Kilograms | Material: ‎Foam | Color: ‎Charcoal

Pros

  • Available in multiple colors
  • Resistant to puncture and UV damage
  • Leak-proof
  • Waterproof
  • Strong zipper
  • Attached bottle opener

Cons

  • Expensive

Our Tester's Experience

"My Yeti cooler bag is indeed a sturdy performer. Fits nicely in vehicles and effectively keeps drinks cold for hours, truly meeting expectations. There's a certain quality in its efficiency that makes it worth the investment."


13. Best Waterproof:IceMule Classic Insulated Backpack Cooler Bag

3.3
IceMule Classic Insulated Backpack Cooler Bag - Hands-Free, Highly Portable, Collapsible, Waterproof and Soft-Sided Cooler, Sling Backpack for Hiking, The Beach, Picnics and Camping Image: Icemule Coolers

Camping is the way to go when it comes to taking an inexpensive vacation, and the IceMule Classic Insulated Backpack Cooler Bag is your go-to storage when it comes to keeping food fresh. It is designed to be portable so that you can lug it around with ease. Whatever be the occasion, you can be assured that your refreshments and drinks will remain ice cold for the entire day. The best part about this portable cooler bag is that it is water-proof! So hurry up and get this amazing cooler bag for the much-awaited trip.

Key Features

  • The double padded straps allows you to carry the bag with ease
  • The cooler is easily collapsible which makes it a space saver
  • The closure system of this bag makes it completely waterproof.
Material: ‎MuleSkin | Color: ‎Coral

Pros

  • Hands-free design
  • Compact and collapsible
  • Waterproof
  • Easy to access
  • Suitable for water and land adventures

Cons

  • Not durable

Our Tester's Experience

"I appreciate this cooler, it's easy to carry, especially on sandy beaches where wheels won't do. It managed to keep my food and drinks chilled for a good 24 hours. Also, it's relatively easy to clean. This cooler does provide convenience for unplanned travels."


14. Best For Drinks:Caddyswag Par 6 Pack Golf Bag Cooler

4.4
Caddy Swag Golf Bag Cooler Beer Sleeve 6 Can - Fun Golfing Gifts for Men & Women - Camping, Hiking, Traveling, Food, General Use - Great for Golfers, Party Gift, Golf Push Cart Accessories & More 1 Pack Image: Caddyswag

What is a game night without something to drink? Make it the perfect game night with your friends with the Caddyswag Par 6 Pack Golf Bag Cooler. You can not only carry the drink of your choice with you but also keep it chilled with this stylish cooler bag. It also comes with a freezer gel pack ensuring that all the edibles remain fresh. The dimensions of this bag are perfect for carrying six 12-ounce cans. This bag is reusable and can be used for years without any trouble. Buy one before the next game night!

Key Features

  • The insulation feature will keep your drinks cold for long.
  • Comes with a stronger and durable zipper
  • Get a Gel Freezer Pack with the bag
Number of Items: ‎6 | Insulation Material: ‎Foam | Material: ‎Polyester | Color: ‎Black

Pros

  • Spacious
  • Compact
  • Strong zipper
  • Durable

Cons

  • Does not keep cool very long

Our Tester's Experience

"After using it for some time, I'd say this bag serves its purpose well. It keeps beverages chilled if packed correctly. I've gifted this one to many and let me tell you, it was well received by all."


15. Best Portable: Lifewit Cooler Bag

4.5
Lifewit Cooler Bag Image: Lifewit

If you are looking for a cooler bag for outdoor activities, this Lifewit Cooler Bag is what you need. The exterior of the bag is designed with 6000D oxford fabric that lasts a long time. It is constructed with a seamless hot pressing technology which makes the bag completely leakproof. It is designed with two wide openings for easy loading of essentials. It features two side mesh pockets and one deep front pocket for keeping your essentials safe. The padded handle and detachable shoulder strap allow you to carry it in multiple ways without straining your shoulders. Additionally, you can fold the bag flat and store it efficiently.

Key Features

  • Leakproof material
  • Constructed with durable 600D Oxford cloth
  • 2 side mesh pockets for extra storage and one deep pocket
  • Detachable shoulder strap and padded handle
Item Weight: 0.95 Kilograms | Material: oxford cloth | Color: Grey

Pros

  • Portable
  • Double-way zippers
  • Easy to carry
  • Easy to store
  • Foldable design
  • Leakproof

Cons

  • Not durable

Our Tester's Experience

"I've used this cooler for various purposes—from grocery shopping and picnics to beach trips. It's impressively versatile and portable, keeping my foods and drinks reliably cold for long durations. I love the multiple compartments and carrying options it offers. It remains an excellent asset for my outings."


The Bottom Line

Laying off on the weekend could mean an outdoor camping adventure or just a day out in the park. Add to the fun of it all by carrying the cooler tote bags we put together for you, keeping your snacks and beverages intact and cool! The Arctic Zone Freeze Zipperless HardBody comes with a smartshelf detail that separates your food from the other contents in the bag. The Carhartt Deluxe Compartment Insulated Cooler comes with multiple pockets and spacious compartments that provide organized snack and beverage storage. For a versatile and tear-proof option, try the Polar Bear Nylon Soft Coolers. These coolers are also lightweight, easy to access, and are suitable for daily use. Check out these bags now and choose the one that caters to your specific needs.

Why Trust StyleCraze?

The author, Shreya Vishwanathan, loves to explore new places and has the lowdown on the best soft-sided cooler bags to take on a holiday. She understands the desire to quench your thirst for iced drinks while chilling out with friends. So, after reading every product review on the market, she compiled a comprehensive review of the top cooler bags. This review will help you organize your drinks easily while remaining within the budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put ice in a cooler bag?

The use of ice mostly depends on the stuff you are packing. But most cooler bags have a great capacity and spacious compartments that allow you to carry ice in them.

How long does food stay frozen in an insulated bag?

Insulated bags can keep foods frozen for a couple of hours. Some cooler bags come with spacious compartments that allow you to carry ice, thereby keeping the food frozen for a longer time.

What size cooler bag do you need?

The bags that are around 7″ x 8″ x 10″ in size can contain nine cans. You can bring 12 packs in bags of 7″ x 12″ x 14″. Typical medium coolers measure 10″ x 18″ x 12″ and hold 24 cans. The larger goods are at least 13″ x 25″ x 19″ in size.

Do soft coolers leak?

No, not every soft cooler leak. The cooler’s joints may leak if they are not welded and leakproof.

How effective are soft coolers at retaining ice?

Soft coolers aren’t designed to keep ice cold for more than a few days, but they can be a useful supplement to a bigger hard-sided model or a stand-alone choice for individuals who only need to keep a meal and drinks cool for the day.

How can I make my soft cooler stay cool for a longer period of time?

Chilling your cooler before adding fresh ice is a great way of keeping it cooler for longer.

Can I put ice in an insulated bag?

Yes, you can put ice in an insulated bag; the more ice you put in, the cooler the bag becomes.

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