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10 Best Small Coolers 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

YETI Hopper M12 Backpack Soft Sided Cooler with MagShield Access, Charcoal

The YETI Hopper M12 Backpack Soft Sided Cooler is designed for those who need a portable and durable solution to keep their beverages cold. It can carry up to 20 cans or 12 pounds of ice, making it a versatile option for picnics, camping trips, or any outdoor activity. The ColdCell insulation provides impressive cold-holding capabilities, ensuring your items stay cold for extended periods. This cooler's MagShield Access feature uses durable magnets to create a leak-resistant seal that is easy to open and close, adding to its convenience.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,260
Capacity
Insulation
Portability

Most important from
590 reviews

Capacity
Easy to pack, although it can be tricky to close if overfilled with ice.
Insulation
Durable construction and high-quality insulation keep drinks ice cold for hours, even in hot weather.
Portability
The backpack design is comfortable to wear, with adjustable straps for a perfect fit.
Durability
Durable construction and high-quality insulation keep drinks ice cold for hours, even in hot weather.
Ice Retention
Keeps beverages cold throughout the day, perfect for summer tournaments.
Additional Features
The YETI Hopper M Series Backpack Cooler combines stunning design with perfect size for outdoor adventures.
#2
10.0 score

YETI Hopper Flip 8 Portable Cooler, Big Wave Blue

The YETI Hopper Flip 8 Portable Cooler in Big Wave Blue is a robust and versatile personal cooler, well-suited for day trips, hiking, fishing, picnics, camping, and beach outings. With a capacity of 2.5 gallons, it can hold up to 6 cans plus ice, making it ideal for short trips where you need to keep beverages and snacks cold. The ColdCell Insulation, made from closed-cell foam, provides excellent cold retention compared to ordinary soft coolers. This means your items will stay cold for longer periods, which is crucial for day-long activities.

Rating
10.0
Capacity
Insulation
Portability

Most important from
2393 reviews

Capacity
This travel cooler is bigger than expected, but that's ok. It fits everything for lunch and keeps items cold for about 2 hours without an ice pack.
Insulation
Very well made for a soft cooler. Keeps items cold as expected.
Portability
Easy to carry with the included shoulder strap or the handle on top. Durable and lightweight.
Durability
If it lasts at least 5 years with no issues, it's worth the money.
Ice Retention
Keeps items cold for a very long time. Very sturdy.
Additional Features
The zipper is a bit stiff, but manageable with a firm grip.
#3
9.9 score

Igloo Quart Cooler with Cool Riser Technology

The Igloo BMX 25 Quart Cooler is a versatile and durable option for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly suited for camping, fishing, and other outdoor activities. It boasts a solid 23 liters capacity, making it ideal for short trips or small gatherings. One of its standout features is the 4-5 day ice retention, supported by the MaxCold body with 20% thicker foam and an insulated lid. This ensures your items stay cold longer, even in warmer conditions. The Cool Riser Technology further enhances its cooling efficiency by elevating the cooler away from hot surfaces.

Rating
9.9
Capacity
Portability
Durability

Most important from
19756 reviews

Capacity
It keeps things cold and has tons of room, making it perfect for short trips.
Portability
Great quality at an affordable price; it works wonderfully and is lightweight enough to lift easily.
Durability
This cooler is very well built and seems like it will hold up to use for a long time.
Ice Retention
Even after a few days, there was still ice left, keeping the drinks very cold.
Additional Features
The latches are easy to use and secure, without being too hard to pull.

Top 10 Best Small Coolers 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

YETI Hopper M12 Backpack Soft Sided Cooler with MagShield Access, Charcoal

Capacity: 20 cans or 12 lbs of ice
Insulation: ColdCell insulation
Portability: Backpack design
Durability: High-density fabric resists punctures, UV
Ice Retention: Extended periods
Additional Features: MagShield Access, Kangaroo Pocket

Chosen by 1260 this week

YETI Hopper Flip 8 Portable Cooler, Big Wave Blue

Capacity: 2.5 Gallons
Insulation: ColdCell Insulation, closed-cell foam
Portability: 2.8 lbs
Durability: DryHide Shell, puncture and abrasion resistant
Additional Features: Portable, Waterproof, Insulated

Igloo Quart Cooler with Cool Riser Technology

Capacity: 23 Liters
Insulation: Foam
Portability: 10.3 pounds, grip handle
Durability: Heavy-duty construction, reinforced base
Ice Retention: 4-5 days
Additional Features: Rubberized latches, tie-down loops, fish ruler

YETI Roadie 24 Cooler, Key Lime

Capacity: 18 cans or 24 lbs ice
Insulation: impressive ice retention
Portability: HEFTYHAULER HANDLE, QUICKLATCH, fits car
Durability: rotomolded construction
Ice Retention: impressive
Additional Features: HEFTYHAULER HANDLE, QUICKLATCH system

YETI Tundra 45 Cooler Desert Tan

Capacity: 45 Quarts
Insulation: 3 inches PermaFrost
Portability: 24 Pounds
Durability: Rotomolded, bear-resistant
Ice Retention: extended periods
Additional Features: T-Rex Lid Latches, basket

YETI Roadie 15 Hard Cooler with DoubleDuty Shoulder Strap, Navy

Capacity: 22 cans or 16 lbs of ice
Portability: DoubleDuty strap, LipGrip handles
Durability: BearFoot non-slip feet
Additional Features: Wine-friendly packing

YETI Hopper Flip 18 Portable Cooler, Ultramarine Violet

Capacity: 16 cans plus ice
Insulation: ColdCell Insulation
Portability: 15.67x10.2x12.6 in, 5.1 lbs
Durability: Waterproof, puncture-resistant shell
Ice Retention: Closed-cell foam
Additional Features: 100% leakproof zipper

YETI Hopper Flip 12 Portable Cooler, Navy

Capacity: 12 cans plus ice
Insulation: ColdCell Insulation, closed-cell foam
Portability: 3.1 lbs
Durability: High-density fabric, puncture-resistant
Ice Retention: Superior cold retention
Additional Features: 100% leakproof HydroLok Zipper
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Buying Guide for the Best Small Coolers

When it comes to picking the right small cooler, it's important to consider how you plan to use it. Whether you're heading out for a day at the beach, a picnic in the park, or a short camping trip, the right cooler can make all the difference in keeping your food and drinks fresh and cool. Here are some key specifications to consider when choosing a small cooler, along with explanations to help you make the best choice for your needs.
CapacityCapacity refers to the amount of space inside the cooler, usually measured in quarts or liters. This spec is important because it determines how much food and drink you can store. Small coolers typically range from 5 to 20 quarts. If you're planning a solo trip or just need to keep a few drinks cold, a cooler on the lower end of this range will suffice. For small group outings or if you need to store more items, consider a cooler with a higher capacity. Think about the number of people and the duration of your trips to guide your choice.
InsulationInsulation is what keeps the contents of your cooler cold. The quality and thickness of the insulation can vary, affecting how long the cooler can maintain its temperature. Good insulation is crucial for keeping your items cold for extended periods. Coolers with thicker walls and lids generally offer better insulation. If you need your cooler to keep ice for a full day or more, look for models with high-quality insulation. For shorter trips, less robust insulation may be sufficient.
PortabilityPortability refers to how easy it is to carry and transport the cooler. This is especially important for small coolers, as they are often used for quick trips and need to be easy to handle. Features like comfortable handles, shoulder straps, and lightweight materials enhance portability. If you plan to carry the cooler over long distances or rough terrain, look for one with ergonomic handles or a shoulder strap. For simple, short-distance transport, a basic handle may be enough.
DurabilityDurability is about how well the cooler can withstand wear and tear. This is important if you plan to use the cooler frequently or in rugged environments. Look for coolers made from sturdy materials like high-density polyethylene or other tough plastics. Some coolers also have reinforced corners and latches for added durability. If you need a cooler that can handle rough handling and outdoor conditions, prioritize durability. For occasional use in more controlled environments, a less rugged model may be adequate.
Ice RetentionIce retention refers to how long the cooler can keep ice frozen. This is a critical spec if you need to keep items cold for extended periods. Ice retention times can vary widely, from a few hours to several days. For day trips or short outings, a cooler with moderate ice retention will work fine. If you need to keep items cold for a full day or longer, look for coolers with excellent ice retention capabilities. Consider the typical duration of your trips to determine the level of ice retention you need.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can enhance the functionality and convenience of your cooler. These might include built-in bottle openers, cup holders, dry storage compartments, or even wheels for easier transport. While not essential, these features can add value and make your cooler more versatile. Think about what extra features might be useful for your specific needs. For example, if you often bring bottled drinks, a built-in bottle opener could be handy. Choose features that align with how you plan to use the cooler.

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