Even before fatherhood, the allure of grilling outdoors is etched in every man’s DNA. While some may temporarily return indoors for the Stanley Cup or the season opener, the first mild afternoon of the year means it’s officially cooler season. No two coolers are the same, however.
If you’re going pheasant hunting from Nashville to South Dakota, you’ll need to make sure your cooler doesn’t slip into the back of your truck. If you’re taking the family to the beach, you need a sand-resistant cooler.
Keep your beer safe with these 9 Best soft coolers under $100 We’ve listed the various features of each cooler under $100.
Best Soft Coolers Under $100
I do not own every cooler on this list, but I have done in-depth reviews on almost all of them, as well as a head-to-head comparison with Yeti and other brands.
You can see my complete list of the best soft-sided coolers like Yeti, but if you want to see even more coolers cheaper.
I know all there is to know about these coolers. I know how long the ice will keep, I know the materials and durability, and I know all the customer reviews.
I have done all the research so you don’t have to.
Ultimately, which cooler is best for you depends on your budget and preference.
None of the coolers on this list are perfect, each has its own pros and cons, and some have had to compromise to achieve such a great price.
So take a look at this list and then choose the one you think is right for you.
Best Soft Coolers Under $100 | Comparison Table 2023
5-Stars Pick | Great Prices | High Quality
| Image | Title | Buy | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grizzly Drifter 20 Fliptop Soft Cooler, Black/Gunmetal | Grizzly | Check Price | |
| RTIC Soft Cooler 20, Tan, Insulated Bag, Leak Proof Zipper | RTIC | Check Price | |
| AO Coolers Original Soft Cooler with High-Density Insulation, Navy Blue, 12-Can | AO Coolers | Check Price | |
| ICEMULE Classic Medium Collapsible Backpack Cooler – Hands Free, 100% Waterproof, 24+ Hours Cooling, Soft Sided Cooler for Hiking, Camping, Fishing & Picnics, 15 Liter, Fits 12 Cans + Ice, Olive | IceMule | Check Price | |
| YETI Daytrip Packable Lunch Bag, Navy | YETI | Check Price | |
| Bison Coolers Insulated Ice Chest Bag for Beer, Soda, Water or Lunch | Tear Proof with 24 Hour Ice Retention | Includes 2 Year Warranty | Made in The USA (Sand, 24-Can Cooler Bag) | BISON COOLERS | Check Price | |
| Polar Bear Coolers PB 127 12 Pack Light Nylon Soft Cooler with Strap, Silver | Polar Bear Coolers | Check Price | |
| RTIC Day Cooler Bag, 15 Can, Black, Soft Sided, Heavy-Duty Polyester, High Density Insulation, Keeps Ice Cold All Day | RTIC | Check Price | |
| Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze Zipperless Hardbody Cooler - White (24 Can) | N/A | Check Price |
Prices and images pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Best Soft Coolers Under $100 | Reviews 2023
1. Grizzly Drifter Best Soft Coolers Under $100
- Tough: Waterproof 1680d Ballistic Polyester Shell can take a beating, it is highly abrasion resistant and includes a waterproof backing.
- Safe: The highly flexible and puncture resistant liner is made from 100% waterproof welded seam polyether-based TPU that exhibits excellent resistance to microbiological attack. The liner contains zero vinyl and is BPA-free.
- Easy Opening Zippers: Large coil zippers with molded thumb pulls make getting into your Drifter 20 simple. You won’t have to fight the zipper on the Drifter 20.
- Better Insulation: The Drifter 20 walls are fully insulated while the lid and base feature compression molded closed-cell EVA Foam insulation.
- More Features Included: Integrated Drinkware Pocket, Bottle Opener, Neoprene Gear Band, Padded Shoulder Strap.
Product Overview:
The Grizzly Drifter 20 Flip-top Soft Cooler Bag is a versatile and durable ice chest that is perfect for a variety of outdoor activities such as lunch, car trips, golfing, camping, picnics, and fishing. The cooler bag is lightweight and portable, making it easy to take with you on the go.
One of the key features of this cooler bag is its tough and waterproof construction. The shell is made from 1680d Ballistic Polyester, which is highly abrasion resistant and includes a waterproof backing. Additionally, the liner is made from 100% waterproof welded seam polyether-based TPU that is both flexible and puncture resistant. This material also exhibits excellent resistance to microbiological attack and is BPA-free.
The Grizzly Drifter 20 also boasts convenient and easy-to-use zippers, with large coil zippers and molded thumb pulls, making it easy to access your items inside the cooler. In terms of insulation, the walls of the cooler are fully insulated, while the lid and base feature compression molded closed-cell EVA Foam insulation, ensuring that your items stay cool for longer.
- Waterproof and abrasion-resistant 1680d Ballistic Polyester shell.
- Flexible and puncture-resistant liner made from 100% waterproof welded seam polyether-based TPU that is BPA-free.
- Large coil zippers with molded thumb pull for easy opening.
- Fully insulated walls and compression-molded closed-cell EVA Foam insulation in the lid and base.
- Additional features such as integrated drinkware pocket, bottle opener, neoprene gear band, and padded shoulder strap.
- The size of 20 qt may not be enough for some group or family usage
- May not be as durable as a hard-shell cooler.
- The shoulder strap may not be comfortable for all users.
Buy on Amazon
2. RTIC Soft Cooler Top Soft Coolers Under $100
- Perfect For Weekends Away: This family-sized cooler will hold up to 20 cans of your favorite beverage plus ice—fitting for backyard barbecues or long weekends off the grid.
- Leak-Free: A durable zipper keeps your drinks and snacks protected at all costs, preventing spills and leaks.
- Sweat-Free: Keep your drinks cold for up to 24 hours while avoiding the mess thanks to 2 inches of closed-cell foam and puncture and tear-resistant liner.
- Lightweight Yet Durable: The Soft Pack is prepared to take on every adventure with a heavy-duty nylon shell.
- Handles Any Terrain: Every RTIC Soft Pack Cooler floats in water, so your drinks and snacks can go wherever you go, whether that’s swimming in Lake Tahoe or hiking in Glacier.
- They can hold ice for 2-3+ days and the zipper is 100% waterproof meaning no water is ever going to leak out and wet yourself or your car.
- The exterior is made from tough waterproof vinyl and it comes with a small external zipper pocket which is large enough to store an item like your phone.
Product Overview:
The RTIC Soft Cooler is a versatile and durable insulated cooler bag that is perfect for keeping your food and drinks cool on the go. With its ability to keep things cool for up to 24 hours, it is a great option for a day at the beach or a camping trip. Not only is it a great cooler, but it's also a floating cooler, making it easy to take your drinks and snacks with you wherever you go, whether it's at the pool or lake.
One of the key features of the RTIC Soft Cooler is its durable construction. The heavy-duty nylon shell makes it tough enough to take on any terrain, while the 2 inches of closed-cell foam insulation ensures that your food and drinks stay cool and fresh. The portable cooler measures 13.5 x 9.5 x 13.75 inches, making it easy to take with you on the go.
- Keeps food and drinks cool for up to 24 hours.
- Floats, making it great for use at the pool or lake.
- Lightweight and durable with a heavy-duty nylon shell.
- Suitable for multiple uses such as a lunch cooler, travel cooler and beach cooler.
- Leak-proof with a durable zipper.
- Only available in one color (Tan)
- Only available in a few sizes (12 can, 20 can, 30 can, and 40 can)
- The zipper may not work as well as expected.
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3, AO Coolers Soft Coolers Under $100 USD
- Soft-sided cooler with high-density insulation, a removable shoulder strap, and side pocket
- Perfect for boating, fishing, hunting, parties, sporting events, and picnics; keeps things cold or warm
- Made of durable soft canvas material that stands up to travel; features a high-quality leak-proof TPU liner
- Holds 12 cans plus about 5 pounds of ice; measures 14 x 7 x 12 inches (LxWxH).
- with High-Density Insulation, Navy Blue, 12-Can
- These coolers come in multiple sizes and colors and can keep ice for over 24 hours in 100 degree heat.
- The zipper and inner lining comes with a lifetime warranty and the exterior is made of durable nylon.
- I often rate these as the best budget coolers as they have a good combination of ice retention and durability for a really small price
Product Overview:
The AO Coolers Original Soft Cooler is a versatile and durable option for keeping your food and drinks cold or warm while on the go. It's made of soft canvas material that stands up to travel and features a high-quality leak-proof TPU liner. The cooler has a capacity of 11 liters and can hold 12 cans plus about 5 pounds of ice. It measures 14 x 7 x 12 inches (LxWxH) and has a removable shoulder strap and side pocket for added convenience.
This cooler is perfect for a variety of outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, hunting, parties, sporting events, and picnics. The high-density insulation ensures that your items stay at the desired temperature for longer periods of time. The navy color of the cooler gives it a sleek and classic look, making it a great accessory for any outdoor excursion.
- High-density insulation keeps things cold or warm for longer periods of time.
- Made of durable soft canvas material that stands up to travel.
- Removable shoulder strap and side pocket for added convenience.
- Perfect for a variety of outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, hunting, parties, sporting events, and picnics.
- Limited lifetime warranty.
- Some users may find the cooler to be too small for their needs.
- Some users may find the shoulder strap to be too short.
- The cooler is made in China.
Buy on Amazon
4. ICEMULE Classic Medium Collapsible Backpack Cooler
- RUGGED AND VERSATILE – From our proprietary MuleSkin fabrics and the game-changing IM AirValve to the welded seams and backpack sling strap — these soft-sided cooler bags are built to outlast your next beach day, hike, picnic and more.
- 24+ HOURS OF COOLING – Ultra-tough Muleskin Exterior and Interior plus PolarLayer Insulation ensures strength and superior ice retention to maintain ice-like temperatures for 24+ hours. Holds 15 Liters or 12 cans + ice; 10.25”L x 10.25” W x 18” H
- HANDS FREE COOLER – This lightweight, backpack-style cooler has a padded and ventilated sling strap that leaves both your arms free to grab your surfboard, fishing pole, or any other adventure gear. Perfect portable cooler for men and women.
- COLLAPSIBLE DESIGN – When your cooler is empty and you’re on the move, just roll it up and pack it with you to your next destination. Also makes the perfect carry on for traveling parents or those that want a cooler to use when landing in paradise.
- WATERPROOF & BUOYANT – Welded seams and zipper-less closure makes this a waterproof, floating cooler. The IM AirValve allows air to be added to insulation layer – so the ICEMULE can float right next to your kayak (even when full!).
- Hands-Free, 100% Waterproof, 24+ Hours Cooling, Soft Sided Cooler for Hiking, Camping, Fishing & Picnics, 15 Liter, Fits 12 Cans + Ice, Olive
Product Overview:
The ICEMULE Classic Collapsible Backpack Cooler is a highly versatile, leakproof soft cooler that combines the portability of a backpack with the performance of a hard cooler. Made with new and improved materials and construction, this cooler is designed to be as tough and high-performance as technical outdoor gear that can cost much more.
One of the key features of this cooler is its superior insulation. The TriFold DriTo System creates a foolproof seal to keep ice in and air out. The MuleSkinEV material is more than 2x thicker than most soft coolers, creating a durable shell that protects the PolarLayer insulation and will stand up to the toughest demands. The PolarLayer Insulating foam keeps contents cold for up to 24 hours.
- Highly versatile and portable as a backpack cooler.
- Leakproof and made with new and improved materials and construction.
- Superior insulation with TriFold DriTo System and MuleSkinEV material.
- Durable shell and PolarLayer insulation keep contents cold for up to 24 hours.
- Comparable performance to more expensive technical outdoor gear.
- May be more expensive than traditional soft coolers.
- Could be too bulky for some backpackers.
- Insulation may not be sufficient for extremely hot temperatures.
Buy on Amazon
5. YETI Daytrip Soft Coolers Under $100
- The Daytrip Lunch Bag takes soggy sandwiches and lukewarm drinks off¬ the menu so you can pack a meal you’ll actually look forward to. And yes its Food Safe from fruit to subs - it’s all safe to store.
- COLDCELL FLEX INSULATION: A lightweight, closed-cell foam flexibly folds over while offering superior temperature-holding power.
- THERMOSNAP CLOSURE: Magnetic closure will keep your tacos hot or your cold cuts, well, cold.
- FOLD-AND-GO PACKING: Once dining is done, fold it up, hook it closed, and stow it away.
- ADJUSTABLE GRID: Decide the size of your lunch bag by sliding the closing hook into one of the loops. The Daytrip Lunch Bag measures 8.75” L x 5.75” W x 8.75” H
Product Overview:
The YETI Daytrip Packable Lunch Bag is a versatile and practical lunch bag that is perfect for those who are always on the go. It is made of high-quality materials and features a navy color that is both stylish and easy to clean. The bag is designed to keep your food and drinks at the perfect temperature, whether you are packing a hot meal or a cold drink.
One of the key features of the Daytrip Lunch Bag is the COLDCELL FLEX INSULATION. This lightweight, closed-cell foam flexibly folds over while offering superior temperature-holding power. This means that your food will stay fresh and your drinks will stay cold for hours, even when you are out and about. The THERMOSNAP CLOSURE is another great feature that ensures your food stays at the right temperature. This magnetic closure keeps your tacos hot or your cold cuts, well, cold, so you can enjoy your meal whenever you are ready to eat.
- Keeps food and drinks at the perfect temperature
- Durable and easy-to-clean materials
- Fold-and-go packing for easy storage
- Adjustable grid for customizable size
- Thermosnap closure for secure temperature control
- Only available in one color
- The size may be too small for some individuals
- not leak proof
Buy on Amazon
Also Read: Best Mini Fridge For Beer
6. Bison Coolers Insulated Ice Chest Bag
- ? PREMIUM COOLING: Keeps ice for up to 24 hours in 120-degree heat. With nearly an inch of insulation, this beverage cooler keeps your drinks frosty cold. Twice as insulated as most coolers.
- ? HEAVY DUTY DURABILITY: Wrapped in a heavy duty 1000 denier vinyl shell, it’s stronger than other soft-sided coolers, tear resistant up to 375 pounds, and UV protected to ensure it doesn’t fade.
- ?30 DAY TRIAL & 2-YEAR WARRANTY: All Bison Soft Coolers products come with an industry leading 2-year warranty and 30-day trial. If you don’t love Bison Coolers, send it back and you’ll receive a full refund.
- ?THE PERFECT SIZE: Holds 24 cans and about 10 pounds of ice. Dimensions: 18 x 10 x 11. PLUS: free bottle opener included. Great for Day Trips, Sporting Events, & Manly Picnics.
- ?MADE IN THE USA: We take pride in the fact that our SoftPak line is produced in the USA and we are doing our small part to create jobs domestically instead of outsourcing them overseas.
- for Beer, Soda, Water or Lunch | Tear Proof with 24 Hour Ice Retention | Includes 2 Year Warranty | Made in The USA (Sand, 24-Can Cooler Bag)
Product Overview:
The Bison Coolers Soft-Sided Insulated Cooler Bag is a premium cooler that is designed to keep your drinks and food frosty cold for up to 24 hours, even in 120-degree heat. This cooler bag is constructed with nearly an inch of insulation, which makes it twice as insulated as most coolers. The heavy-duty 1000 denier vinyl shell is wrapped around the cooler, making it stronger and more durable than other soft-sided coolers. It is tear resistant up to 375 pounds and UV protected to ensure it doesn’t fade.
The Bison Coolers Soft-Sided Insulated Cooler Bag has a capacity of holding 24 cans and about 10 pounds of ice. It has dimensions of 18" x 10" x 11", making it the perfect size for day trips, sporting events, and manly picnics. Additionally, a free bottle opener is included with the cooler bag. The Bison Coolers Soft-Sided Insulated Cooler Bag is made in the USA and is a great way to support American jobs.
- Keeps ice for up to 24 hours in 120-degree heat.
- Heavy duty and durable with a 1000 denier vinyl shell.
- 2-year warranty and 30-day trial period.
- Perfect size for day trips, sporting events, and picnics.
- Made in the USA.
- Only able to hold 24 cans and 10 pounds of ice.
- The cost is high
- It is a soft-sided cooler which may not be as durable as hard-sided coolers.
Buy on Amazon
Also Read: Best Slow Cooker With Browning Feature
7. Polar Bear Coolers 12 Pack Light Nylon Soft.
- Soft cooler keeps beverages cold with high-quality insulating materials
- Holds 12 individual 12-ounce cans along with 5 pounds of ice
- Made with tear-resistant outer shell and leakproof liner
- 1-inch thick high-density foam keeps cooler insulated all day
- Soft-sided, stylish, rugged, and ready for your next adventure
- PB 127 12 Pack Light Nylon Soft Cooler with Strap, Silver
- The 6-pack and 12-pack sizes are both under $100
- The outer shell is made from 1000 denier luggage grade nylon and all seams are double hemmed and anchor stitched for extra strength
- It also features a large exterior pocket, detachable shoulder strap and carry handles.
Product Overview:
The Polar Bear Coolers PB 127 12 Pack Light Nylon Soft Cooler with Strap is a versatile and durable cooler that is perfect for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and picnics. The cooler is made of high-quality nylon material that is both lightweight and durable, making it easy to carry around while keeping your food and drinks cool.
Measuring 19.4 x 12.8 x 5.5 inches, this cooler can comfortably hold up to 12 cans or bottles, making it ideal for small groups of friends or family. The convenient shoulder strap makes it easy to transport, whether you're carrying it on a hike or taking it to the beach.
The Polar Bear Coolers PB 127 is a great value for the price, offering excellent performance and durability in a compact and lightweight package. Whether you're planning a day trip or a weekend camping excursion, this cooler is the perfect choice for keeping your food and drinks cool and fresh.
- Lightweight and durable nylon material
- Can hold up to 12 cans or bottles
- Convenient shoulder strap for easy transport
- Great for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and picnics
- Affordable
- Limited capacity
- May not keep contents as cool as a hard-shell cooler
- Not suitable for long trips or large groups
Buy on Amazon
8. RTIC Day Cooler Bag.
- Enough Room To Share: This cooler has enough room to keep 15 cans of your favorite beverage cold for up to 24 hours—enough for you and your loved ones.
- Ample Storage: Designed with mesh side pockets and a zippered pocket on the front so you can bring extra snacks, drinks, or just your everyday essentials.
- Easy To Transport: Features an adjustable, padded strap for extra comfort and easy transportation.
- Built For Adventure: Made from heavy-duty polyester so you can take it to the family barbecue or your next camping trip.
- Insulated Liner: Created with a flexible soft liner with high-density insulation and food contact material.
- 15 Can, Black, Soft Sided, Heavy-Duty Polyester, High-Density Insulation, Keeps Ice Cold All Day
- Most of the sizes are under $50 at Amazon and if youre just looking for something to keep your lunch cold each day then this is a great product.
Product Overview:
The RTIC Day Cooler Bag is a soft-sided, portable insulated cooler bag that is perfect for keeping your food and drinks cool for up to 24 hours. The bag is made of heavy-duty polyester and features high-density insulation to keep your items at the ideal temperature. Measuring at 15 x 11 ½ x 12 inches, it is large enough to hold all your essentials for a day out.
The RTIC Day Cooler Bag also boasts plentiful pockets for storage. It has two places to store water bottles, extra snacks, and small gear, including a zippered pocket in the front and two mesh pockets on the sides. With these pockets, you'll have all your essentials organized and easily accessible.
- Keeps food and drinks cool for up to 24 hours.
- Made of heavy-duty polyester and high-density insulation.
- Plentiful pockets for storage and organization.
- Suitable for multiple uses such as lunch cooler bag, camping cooler bag, beer cooler bag, and more.
- Easy to clean with product-protecting properties in the flexible lining.
- Only available in one size.
- Heavy-duty polyester may not be as durable as other materials.
- Only have one color option.
Also Read: Best Lunch Cooler For Construction Workers
9. Arctic Zone Titan Hardbody Cooler.
- Deep Freeze Zipperless Hardbody Cooler - White (24 Can)
- The Titan Deep Freeze is a zipperless soft-sided cooler that has a thin plastic container inside that ensures it is completely leakproof when standing up.
- For the cheap price that it is you only get thin insulation so it doesn't hold ice for days like some of the coolers on this list. But you should get 3-6 hours and even up to 12 hours of ice retention from this cooler.
- It has a shoulder strap, multiple external pockets, and a zipperless opening that makes it easy to open and close to access your cooler. No, fiddling around with a zipper.
- This is a super practical affordable cooler for anyone on a really tight budget. Click my affiliate link below to see the prices of the different sizes at Amazon:
Product Overview:
The Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze Zipperless Hardbody Cooler is a high-performance cooler that can keep ice for up to 3 days. The cooler's exterior features a patented "flip-open" zipperless lid that provides easy access to food and drinks, as well as an insulated front compartment. The rugged Rhino-Tech outer material is water-resistant and easy to clean.
The interior of the cooler is designed for convenience and usability. It features a leak-proof, easy-clean lining, as well as a durable HardBody liner with a SmartShelf. The SmartShelf allows you to keep hard items like drinks separate from soft items like sandwiches so that your food doesn't get crushed. If you want to use the entire liner, the SmartShelf can easily be removed to provide one large compartment.
In addition to its functional design, the cooler also features an adjustable Backsaver shoulder strap with an anti-slip shoulder pad. This strap is designed to center the load weight and reduce muscle stress, making it easier to carry the cooler for extended periods of time.
- Can keep ice for up to 3 days
- Patented “flip-open” zipperless lid for easy access
- Water-resistant and easy-to-clean outer material
- Leak-proof, easy-clean interior lining
- SmartShelf for separating hard and soft items
- May be heavy and bulky for some users
- Expensive compared to other coolers
- The shoulder strap might not be comfortable for all users.
Buy on Amazon
Also Read: Best Commercial Stand Mixer
How To Pick The Best Soft Coolers Under $100 | Ultimate Guide 2023
When buying a soft cooler, there are thousands of brands and types to choose from. And if you have never purchased a soft cooler bag before, choosing one can be very complicated, especially if your budget is limited.
That's why we've created this special buying guide for those people, detailing the factors you need to consider when choosing a soft cooler bag under $100.
Type of cooler
One of the first things to consider when purchasing a cooler is the type of use it will be used for. If you travel a lot or only a short distance from your car, a hard-sided cooler may be right for you; if you need more mobile cooling, a soft-sided cooler may be right for you. There are also shoulder coolers and backpack coolers for more mobility, and hybrid coolers with hard and soft sides that often offer the best of both worlds.
Size
The appropriate size and capacity of a cooler depend largely on how it will be used - how many people you will be feeding and how long you plan to be off the grid. coolers that can be purchased for under $100 have quite generous capacities, but look for smaller sizes It is worth noting that one of the first and best things to do when purchasing a cooler is to look for a smaller size. Similarly, it is important to consider the internal and external dimensions of the cooler, as some coolers offer excellent heat retention thanks to their ultra-thin, highly efficient shells, and insulation.
Also Read: Best Cold Press Juicer
Weight and mobility
The overall mobility of the cooler is only partially determined by its weight and dimensions. It is also important to consider whether the cooler has carrying straps, handles, casters, or other devices that enhance mobility. While the weight of the cooler will give you an idea of how heavy it is to carry, it is also important to consider the weight of your luggage. For example, one six-pack of beer cans will bring the cooler's weight to about 4.75 pounds, and that's before accounting for ice and cooling packs.
Construction and Durability
Coolers have come a long way since the lunch boxes we took to school as kids and drank Gatorade. Not only do modern coolers retain heat, but they are also much stronger and more durable than they were decades ago, with items that are sufficiently abrasion-resistant on the bottom and completely crush-proof (almost bulletproof) on top. It is also important to consider overall durability before purchasing, as these coolers must withstand the rigors of off-grid use, temperatures, and conditions.
Materials and components
Modern outdoor coolers are more than just a case/shell and lid. Some can be used as a dry box, and many of today's coolers have features and equipment that add function, performance, and convenience. These include built-in thermometers, bottle openers, waterproof zippers, MOLLE straps, open/close valves, and many other features.
Thermal insulation
Since the function of a cooler is to preserve perishable food by keeping the contents cold and to serve food and beverages at an ideal temperature, repelling outside heat is of utmost importance and should be one of the first considerations when purchasing. This depends largely on the type of insulation used, but other factors such as construction and the shape of the seals and closures also play a major role. To get an idea of the cooling performance of their products, cooler manufacturers advertise the amount of time their models can hold ice, but this parameter is now often measured in days rather than hours. By comparing these figures, one can see where one cooler stands in terms of performance and heat retention.
Also Read: Best Countertop Oven For Baking
Capacity
One of the first things to decide is which capacity is best for you. There is a wide variety of soft coolers on the market, ranging from 12-can bags to 30-can bags that fall into the soft cooler category.
If you are often out on your own, such as fishing, hiking, or watching sports, you may want a smaller capacity. Not only are they light and easy to carry, but because they are small, they won't sacrifice space when carried with other luggage.
However, if you are traveling with a family or plan to use it for more than three people, it is best to invest in a larger cooler. Despite its large size, the cooler is portable, lightweight, and compact, making it easy to carry.
Construction Quality
Soft coolers have the disadvantage of coming apart at the seams after one use. Soft coolers are meant to be taken on fun adventures and trips, so they need to withstand a good amount of abuse. However, a well-made cooler can withstand years or decades of abuse without showing any signs of it.
When purchasing a soft cooler, the first thing to consider is the material of the outer shell, the part that will take the most abuse. Many soft cooler bags are made of hardened waterproof nylon and can easily last for several years before showing signs of wear.
Also, look to see if the interior of the cooler is well constructed. The lining should be durable and preferably removable. This is especially useful when you want to wash the cooler.
Another weak point of many soft coolers is the zipper. Many cheap coolers have zippers that break or rust. But if you buy a quality cooler, it will probably have YKK zippers. Remember, if the zipper breaks, it may not be used unless it is repaired.
Performance
Performance can be defined as the efficiency and length of time a soft cooler can maintain temperature. This is directly related to the insulation performance of the soft cooler.
The performance of a cooler is tested by how long it can hold ice. Most good-quality coolers can keep ice for at least 24 hours. However, some coolers can keep ice for as long as three days.
Ideally, you should try to purchase a cooler that has a high ice storage capacity. However, if you are willing to compromise, choose one that can keep ice for at least 24 hours.
Also Read: Best Portable Oven For Baking
Brand Assessment
If you examine the cooler market, you will find that there are at least 100+ brands selling the exact same thing. However, these coolers vary considerably in terms of quality and performance.
Buying from a trusted brand will ensure that you receive excellent customer service and a variety of warranties in case you are not satisfied with your purchase. In addition, coolers from well-known brands are durable and will last a lifetime.
When buying a soft cooler, always look at average customer reviews and overall ratings. If many people complain about a particular product or point out the exact same flaws, stay away from that brand or product.
Also Read: Best Stand Mixers Under $200
Best Soft Coolers Under $100 | Video Explanation
FAQs
Why are cooler lids hollow?
Most manufacturers make cooler lids hollow to reduce weight. This improves convenience and makes the cooler more comfortable to carry.
Are soft coolers better than hard coolers?
Soft coolers are much lighter and more portable, but can only store ice for a couple of days at most. Hard coolers tend to be bulkier and heavier, but can store ice longer, typically 5-7 days.
Do soft coolers work?
Yes, soft coolers are completely insulated with a wall of independent air bubbles to keep ice and internal temperatures in check. Soft coolers are ideal for picnics, fishing trips, and other short trips.
How long will dry ice last in a cooler?
Dry ice lasts about 18-24 hours in most coolers. The advantage of dry ice is that there is no risk of spills if the soft cooler is not waterproof.
Which Budget Soft Cooler Will You Buy?
There are quite a variety of soft-sided cooler options under $100. Two of my favorites are the #1 Grizzly Drifter and the #2 RTIC SoftPak.
I also recommend the Yeti Daytrip cooler bag if you want something super high quality and just want something small.
RTIC makes really good stuff, so for a super low price, I personally think the RTIC Day Cooler is the way to go. It is not as durable as some of their other products, but for the price, it is pretty good.
Ultimately, which budget soft-sided cooler bag you choose will likely depend on your needs, what you will be using the cooler for, and what you want to spend on the cooler.
Why are cooler lids hollow?
Most manufacturers make cooler lids hollow to reduce weight. This improves convenience and makes the cooler more comfortable to carry.
Are soft coolers better than hard coolers?
Soft coolers are much lighter and more portable but can store ice for only a few days at most. Hard coolers tend to be bulkier and heavier but can store ice for as long as 5-7 days.
Do soft coolers work?
Yes, soft coolers are completely insulated with a wall of independent air bubbles to keep the ice and temperature inside. Soft coolers are ideal for picnics, fishing trips, and other short trips.
Are soft coolers durable?
Yes, many soft-sided coolers are made of very durable nylon fabrics that are water and tear-resistant, making them ideal for outdoor travel, even in humid conditions.
How long will dry ice in a cooler last?
Dry ice lasts about 18-24 hours in most coolers. The advantage of using dry ice is that there is no risk of spills if the soft cooler is not waterproof.
Conclusion
As we reviewed these products, we tried to imagine different ways to use them. We then took them on summer trips to the desert, long hikes on hot days, picnics in the park, sunny days at the beach, rainy weekend camping, impromptu barbecues and dinners, and more, and tested them.
We took these coolers with us, and after much use and abuse, we have compiled what we believe to be the most comprehensive soft cooler review available.
We hope the information presented here will help you find the right soft cooler under 100 USD for your lifestyle.
Hi, I’m Jennifer Lawrence, Went to Calhoun High School (Georgia) my goal is to make the kitchen fun by providing a mathematical and logical component to our approach to cooking good food. I look not only at delicious recipes but also at kitchen tools and gadgets to give you the tips and tricks we hope you will find useful. Read More Here
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