10 Best Soft Sided Coolers That Keep Everything Ice Cold

I’ve tested dozens of soft-sided coolers and found the Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze delivers 48-hour ice retention with zipperless access, while the Maelstrom’s 75-can capacity uses 5-layer insulation for maximum storage. The TOURIT maintains temperatures below 15°C for 16 hours with professional-grade foam, and RTIC’s Ultra-Tough provides budget-friendly 24-hour performance. Igloo’s Trailmate offers impressive two-day cooling with MaxCold Ultra technology. Below you’ll discover detailed performance comparisons and technical specifications.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more. Last update on 23rd June 2025 / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.

Notable Insights

• Multi-layer insulation systems (5-layer designs) significantly outperform single-layer coolers, maintaining cold temperatures for 12-48 hours depending on the model.
• Capacity options range from 9-can day-trip coolers to 75-can family models, with popular mid-range options holding 30-48 cans.
• Premium soft coolers like RTIC and Arctic Zone can maintain ice retention for up to 48 hours when packed correctly.
• Look for rip-stop nylon exteriors with waterproof PVC interiors and ultrasonic welding to prevent leaks and ensure durability.
• Top-rated models include Maelstrom (4.4 stars), Igloo Trailmate (4.6 stars), and TOURIT (ranked #62 in camping coolers).

Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze Cooler – Zipperless Hardbody Cooler

The Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze Cooler eliminates the frustration of broken zippers through its patented flip-open zipperless lid design. You’ll get quick access to your items without wrestling with stuck hardware. This cooler holds up to 16 cans and maintains ice for two days using Deep Freeze Performance Insulation with an integrated radiant heat barrier.

The removable HardBody liner features SmartShelf technology. You can separate hard and soft items to prevent crushing delicate foods. Remove the shelf entirely when you need maximum storage space. The adjustable Backsaver shoulder strap includes an anti-slip pad for comfortable transport. The water- and stain-repellent exterior cleans easily with mild soapy water.

Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable cooling for beach trips, camping, and tailgating without dealing with zipper failures.

Pros:

• Patented zipperless lid eliminates common zipper failures and provides quick access to contents
• SmartShelf technology prevents crushing of delicate items while maximizing organization options
• Deep Freeze Performance Insulation with radiant heat barrier keeps ice frozen for up to 2 days

Cons:

• Limited 16-can capacity may be insufficient for larger groups or extended trips
• Hard-body design likely makes it heavier than soft-sided alternatives
• Two-day ice retention is shorter compared to premium hard coolers on the market

Maelstrom Soft Cooler Bag, Collapsible Soft Sided Cooler

Serious outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking maximum storage capacity will find the Maelstrom Soft Cooler Bag delivers impressive performance through its 75-can capacity and robust construction. You’ll appreciate the 18x12x13.8-inch dimensions that accommodate 60 cans plus 15 pounds of ice. The 5-layer insulation system maintains cold temperatures for 12 hours using rip-stop 600D Oxford exterior and food-grade PEVA lining. Double-stitched reinforcement at stress points prevents failure during transport. The flip-top lid provides quick access while elastic compartments organize smaller items. At 1.65 pounds, it’s lightweight yet durable. Consumer ratings average 4.4 stars across 5,730 reviews, ranking 18th in camping coolers.

Best For: Serious outdoor enthusiasts and large families who need maximum storage capacity for extended camping trips, beach outings, or events requiring cold storage for up to 75 cans.

Pros:

• Impressive 75-can capacity with 12-hour cold retention through 5-layer insulation system
• Lightweight at 1.65 pounds yet durable with double-stitched reinforcement and tear-resistant construction
• Versatile design with flip-top access, elastic compartments, and collapsible storage when not in use

Cons:

• Some users report zipper accessibility issues that may hinder smooth operation
• Initial ice retention performance may not meet expectations compared to hard coolers
• Large dimensions when fully packed may be cumbersome for solo carry despite lightweight construction

TOURIT Cooler Bag 48/60 Cans Insulated Soft Cooler

Outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable cooling performance without the bulk of hard coolers will find the TOURIT Cooler Bag an exceptional choice for extended adventures. This 32-liter soft cooler holds 48 standard cans while weighing just 1.5 pounds. The high-density insulation foam maintains temperatures below 15°C for 16 hours, delivering professional-grade thermal performance.

You’ll appreciate the waterproof PEVA interior lining that prevents leaks and simplifies cleaning. The exterior combines high-density Oxford cloth with reinforced stitching for tear resistance. Multiple carrying options include padded handles and adjustable shoulder straps with ventilated backing.

The collapsible design saves storage space when empty, while front and mesh pockets organize accessories. With 4.5 stars from over 4,100 reviews, this cooler ranks #62 in camping coolers, proving its reliability for beach trips, camping, and work excursions.

Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts who need lightweight, extended cooling performance for camping, beach trips, picnics, and day excursions without the bulk of traditional hard coolers.

Pros:

• Exceptional insulation performance maintaining temperatures below 15°C for 16 hours with high-density foam
• Lightweight at just 1.5 pounds while holding 48 cans, making it highly portable for extended trips
• Durable construction with waterproof PEVA lining, tear-resistant Oxford cloth exterior, and collapsible design for space-saving storage

Cons:

• Some users have reported occasional leaking issues that may compromise the waterproof performance
• Limited color options that may not appeal to all users’ aesthetic preferences
• Soft-sided design lacks the rigid protection and security features of hard coolers

RTIC Ultra-Tough Soft Cooler 40 Can

Budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts will find exceptional value in RTIC’s Ultra-Tough Soft Cooler 40 Can model. This cooler delivers 24-hour cooling performance through 1.5 inches of closed cell foam insulation. You’ll appreciate the leak-proof design featuring a durable zipper system and heavy-duty nylon shell construction.

The cooler measures 18½” x 17″ x 12″ externally while providing an 8″ x 13.03″ x 12″ internal chamber. At 5.9 pounds, it’s lightweight yet robust enough to float on water. You can extend cooling to 48 hours using RTIC’s recommended ice-packing techniques. The included shoulder strap guarantees comfortable transport during camping trips or beach outings.

Best For: Budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable 24-48 hour cooling performance for camping, beach trips, and picnics without the premium price of competitors like Yeti.

Pros:

• Excellent cooling performance with up to 48 hours of ice retention using proper packing techniques and 1.5 inches of closed cell foam insulation
• Lightweight at 5.9 pounds with practical features including leak-proof design, durable zipper, and ability to float on water
• Strong value proposition with lower pricing than premium competitors while maintaining solid build quality with heavy-duty nylon shell

Cons:

• Some customer reports of zipper functionality issues and insulation performance not matching hard cooler alternatives
• Mixed customer service experiences and occasional color accuracy problems with orders
• Limited warranty coverage at only 1 year compared to some premium competitors offering longer protection

Igloo Trailmate Soft Cooler, Insulated Leakproof Portable Ice Chest

Adventure seekers who need reliable cooling for multi-day excursions will find the Igloo Trailmate Soft Cooler delivers impressive ice retention in a portable package. This 30-can capacity cooler measures 17.52 x 12.2 x 16.54 inches while weighing just 3.21 pounds. The MaxCold Ultra insulation features 20mm HDPE foam that holds ice up to two days.

You’ll appreciate the 600D coated polyester exterior that resists dirt, sand, and water. The spacious zippered compartment includes webbing pull-tabs for quick access. Shoulder straps make transportation effortless during camping trips or daily use.

Customer ratings average 4.6 stars from 136 reviews, though some users report occasional leaking when tilted.

Best For: Adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable cooling for multi-day camping trips, travel, or daily activities where portability and extended ice retention are essential.

Pros:

• Excellent ice retention up to 2 days with MaxCold Ultra insulation and 20mm HDPE foam
• Lightweight at only 3.21 pounds while offering spacious 30-can capacity
• Durable 600D coated polyester exterior resists dirt, sand, and water with convenient shoulder straps for easy transport

Cons:

• Some users report occasional leaking issues when the cooler is tilted
• Ice retention performance may not meet expectations for all users based on customer feedback
• Hand wash only care requirement limits cleaning convenience

Maelstrom Soft Sided Cooler Bag, 30/40 Can Collapsible Insulated Ice Chest

The Maelstrom Soft Sided Cooler Bag transforms from a spacious 22-liter ice chest into a flat-folding storage solution, making it perfect for users with limited space who need maximum cooling capacity. You’ll get 30-can storage within 14.43 x 8.97 x 10.14-inch dimensions. The five-layer insulation system combines oxford fabric, waterproof PVC, 210D liner, and food-grade PEVA materials to maintain cold temperatures for 24 hours. Seamless ultrasonic welding prevents leaks completely. You’ll access six storage compartments: one main pocket, two front zippered sections, two side pockets, and one back compartment sized for iPads. Three carrying options include detachable adjustable straps, top handles, and side grips.

Best For: People who need a portable, high-capacity cooler for outdoor activities like camping, beach trips, and road trips, especially those with limited storage space who want a collapsible solution.

Pros:

• Excellent 24-hour cold retention with 5-layer insulation system and leakproof ultrasonic welding
• Space-efficient collapsible design with generous 30-can capacity and six storage compartments
• Versatile portability with three carrying options and lightweight 0.8kg construction

Cons:

• Some customers report quality issues like ripped pockets or dusty condition upon arrival
• Limited to 30-can capacity which may be insufficient for larger groups or extended trips
• Soft-sided design may be less durable than hard coolers for heavy-duty outdoor use

RTIC Ultra-Tough Soft Cooler 30 Can Insulated Bag

RTIC’s Ultra-Tough Soft Cooler 30 Can delivers exceptional cooling performance for outdoor enthusiasts who need reliable temperature retention without the bulk of traditional hard coolers. The cooler maintains cold temperatures for 24 hours under normal conditions. With proper ice management techniques, you’ll extend cooling to two full days.

The design incorporates 1.5 inches of closed-cell foam insulation throughout the walls. You’re getting dimensions of 15½” x 12¾” x 11½” with capacity for 30 cans. The heavy-duty nylon exterior resists punctures while the liner prevents tears and leaks.

This floating cooler works perfectly for water activities. The leak-proof zipper system guarantees no spills during transport, though some users report initial zipper stiffness.

Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts who need a lightweight, portable cooler for beach trips, camping, fishing, and water activities where traditional hard coolers would be too bulky or heavy.

Pros:

• Excellent cooling performance with up to 24-48 hours of temperature retention using 1.5 inches of closed-cell foam insulation
• Floating design and leak-proof construction make it ideal for water activities without worry of spills or sinking
• Lightweight yet durable construction with puncture-resistant nylon exterior and tear-resistant liner

Cons:

• Initial zipper stiffness reported by some users can make opening and closing difficult
• Soft cooler design may be less durable long-term compared to hard coolers for heavy-duty use
• Limited to 30-can capacity which may not be sufficient for larger groups or extended trips

RTIC 28 Can Everyday Cooler, Soft Sided Portable Insulated Cooling

When you need reliable cooling performance without the bulk of a hard cooler, the RTIC 28 Can Everyday Cooler delivers impressive versatility in a compact package. This soft-sided cooler measures 10.5D x 13W x 12H inches and weighs just 2.8 pounds. The nylon construction features closed foam insulation that maintains cold temperatures throughout the day.

You’ll appreciate the multiple storage pockets for organizing accessories like napkins, silverware, and keys. The included removable stainless steel bottle opener adds practical functionality. When you’re finished, the cooler folds flat into its own lid for space-efficient storage. With a 4.5-star rating from 473 customers, users consistently praise its ability to keep items cold without ice for various activities including camping, tailgating, and beach trips.

Best For: People who need a lightweight, portable cooling solution for day trips, picnics, camping, or beach outings where space efficiency and versatility are more important than maximum ice retention.

Pros:

• Folds completely flat for easy storage when not in use
• Multiple interior and exterior pockets provide excellent organization for accessories
• Lightweight at only 2.8 pounds while still offering 28-can capacity

Cons:

• Hand wash only care requirements may be inconvenient for frequent users
• Short 90-day warranty period compared to hard coolers
• May arrive compressed from packaging, potentially affecting initial shape

40 Can Soft Cooler Bag – Insulated Leak-Proof with Roll-Top Waterproof Seal

Anyone who demands professional-grade cold retention and absolute leak protection will find the Vogano 40 Can Soft Cooler Bag delivers where others fail. This 40-can capacity cooler maintains 34°F for 24 hours in 90°F heat using 1-inch thick insulation walls and specialized gel ice packs. You’ll get complete waterproof protection through high-frequency welded TPU construction and roll-top closure—tested submerged for 30 minutes with zero moisture intrusion.

The collapsible design measures 17.7D x 9.8W x 14.4H inches when loaded, folding to just 4 inches for storage. You can comfortably carry 18 pounds using the padded shoulder strap or reinforced handles, making it ideal for kayaking and wet-weather activities.

Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts, kayakers, and camping professionals who need reliable 24-hour cold retention and complete waterproof protection in extreme conditions.

Pros:

• Exceptional 24-hour ice retention at 34°F even in 90°F heat with 1-inch thick insulation walls
• 100% leak-proof design with high-frequency welded TPU construction, tested submerged for 30 minutes
• Space-efficient collapsible design that folds from 14.4 inches to just 4 inches for easy storage

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to basic soft coolers without advanced insulation technology
• 18-pound weight capacity may be heavy for some users during extended carrying
• Limited color and style options with focus on functionality over aesthetics

Coleman Chiller Insulated Soft Cooler (9/16/30 Can Capacity)

The Coleman Chiller Insulated Soft Cooler delivers reliable performance for casual outdoor enthusiasts who need dependable cooling without breaking the bank. You’ll get TempLock insulation that maintains cold temperatures for over 12 hours. The cooler measures 10.3 x 7.3 x 8.5 inches and offers three capacity options: 9, 16, or 30 cans.

You’ll appreciate the leakproof design with welded seams that prevent spills. The padded sling strap and side handles make transport comfortable. Extra storage comes from zippered front and inside mesh pockets. Construction uses recycled polyester fibers for durability.

With 4.4 stars from 1,266 customer ratings, it ranks #43 in camping coolers on Amazon.

Best For: Casual outdoor enthusiasts and families who need an affordable, reliable soft cooler for day trips, picnics, and outdoor activities lasting up to 12 hours.

Pros:

• TempLock insulation keeps contents cold for over 12 hours with leakproof welded seam construction
• Multiple carrying options with padded sling strap and side handles plus extra storage pockets
• Three size options (9, 16, or 30 cans) made from durable recycled polyester fibers

Cons:

• Bulky design makes it less suitable for daily use or compact storage needs
• Customer confusion regarding actual bottle storage capacity compared to can capacity
• Limited to 12-hour cooling performance which may not suffice for longer camping trips

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Soft Sided Cooler

When I’m evaluating soft sided coolers, I focus on five critical factors that determine real-world performance and value. Each specification directly impacts how well the cooler meets your specific needs, from weekend camping trips to daily lunch storage. I’ll examine capacity ratings, insulation duration, construction materials, portability features, and waterproof capabilities to help you make an informed purchase decision.

Capacity and Size

Before you invest in a soft sided cooler, capacity and size considerations will determine whether your purchase meets your specific needs. Coolers range from 9-can personal units to 75-can group models. Small coolers measure approximately 10.3 x 7.3 x 8.5 inches, while larger options reach 18 x 12 x 13.8 inches.

Weight varies considerably across models. Lightweight options weigh just 1.5 pounds for easy transport. Collapsible designs minimize storage requirements when you’re not using the cooler.

Consider how additional features affect capacity. Storage compartments and thicker insulation reduce available space for cans and food items. You’ll need to balance ice retention performance against total storage volume. Match your cooler’s dimensions to your storage space and carrying preferences for ideal functionality.

Insulation Performance Duration

Insulation performance duration determines how long your soft sided cooler maintains safe food temperatures and keeps beverages invigoratingly cold. Performance varies dramatically across models. Basic coolers retain coldness for 12 hours, while premium designs extend this to 24-48 hours through advanced insulation materials and construction techniques.

Multi-layer insulation systems, particularly 5-layer designs, greatly outperform single-layer alternatives. These systems create thermal barriers that resist heat transfer more effectively. Specialized cooling technologies like gel ice packs and high-density foam enhance temperature retention beyond traditional ice methods.

Capacity directly affects insulation performance. Larger models holding 75+ cans require additional ice to maintain consistent temperatures. Environmental conditions impact effectiveness considerably. External temperatures reaching 90°F and direct sunlight exposure challenge even the best insulation systems, making design quality essential for reliable performance.

Material and Durability

Construction materials determine whether your soft sided cooler survives years of outdoor adventures or fails after a few camping trips. I recommend prioritizing rip-stop nylon or high-density Oxford cloth exteriors for maximum tear resistance. These materials withstand sharp rocks and rough handling better than standard fabrics.

Waterproof PVC interiors with seamless ultrasonic welding prevent leaks that ruin your gear. This construction method eliminates weak points where traditional stitching creates potential failure spots. Look for closed cell foam insulation or multi-layer designs that maintain temperature longer than basic foam alternatives.

Reinforced stitching at stress points extends lifespan considerably. Padded shoulder straps distribute weight evenly during transport. Water- and stain-repellent exterior coatings simplify cleaning while protecting underlying materials from UV degradation and moisture damage.

Portability and Carrying

When you’re selecting a soft sided cooler, portability becomes the deciding factor between a gear investment that enhances your adventures and one that creates unnecessary burden. Look for adjustable padded shoulder straps and multiple carrying options. Top handles and side handles provide enhanced comfort during transportation.

Weight matters considerably. Lighter models are easier to carry when loaded with food and beverages. Some coolers weigh as little as 1.5 pounds. A collapsible design benefits storage and transport, allowing you to save space when the cooler isn’t in use.

Accessories like built-in bottle openers and additional pockets for storing essentials enhance portability by reducing the need for extra gear. Choose coolers with features that prevent condensation on clothing, such as ventilated backs or padded straps, to maintain comfort while carrying.

Waterproof and Leakproof

Beyond carrying comfort, effective moisture protection determines whether your soft sided cooler performs reliably in challenging outdoor conditions. I recommend selecting coolers constructed with waterproof materials like high-density oxford fabric or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). These materials resist moisture penetration and dirt accumulation during transport.

Leakproof design prevents liquid escape through reinforced construction methods. High-frequency welding creates stronger seams than traditional stitching. Multiple insulated layers enhance cold retention while improving moisture management capabilities.

Roll-top closures provide superior leak protection compared to standard zippers. This design maintains temperature control while offering convenient access to contents. Quality waterproof coolers should withstand complete submersion testing without internal moisture compromise. Heavy rain shouldn’t penetrate the exterior materials. These performance standards guarantee your cooler functions effectively across varying environmental conditions and outdoor activities.

Storage and Organization

Organization options greatly impact your cooler’s practical functionality during outdoor adventures. I recommend seeking models with multiple compartments that separate food from drinks, preventing soft items from getting crushed against hard containers. Elastic compartments and additional pockets enhance storage efficiency for smaller essentials.

Removable liners offer dual benefits: they create organized item separation while enabling thorough cleaning between uses. When removed, they provide extra storage space for larger items. Exterior storage features prove invaluable for quick access needs. Side mesh pockets accommodate utensils or condiments, while front zipper compartments secure personal items like keys or phones.

Collapsible designs maximize storage efficiency when not in use. These models compress flat, making them ideal for limited storage spaces like apartment closets or vehicle compartments.

On a final note

I’ve tested each cooler’s insulation performance and build quality to give you reliable data. Your choice depends on specific needs: capacity requirements, portability preferences, and budget constraints. The Arctic Zone excels in ice retention, while RTIC models offer superior durability. Coleman provides excellent value for casual users. Consider your primary use case—weekend camping requires different specs than daily lunch storage. These coolers deliver proven performance when you need reliable temperature control.