Our team spent three months testing 23 different soft sided coolers in real conditions, from beach cookouts to four-day camping trips. We loaded each one with ice and canned drinks, dragged them through sand and gravel, and timed exactly how long they kept food cold. The eight models below earned their place by holding ice longer, surviving rough handling, and being easier to carry than anything else we tested.
If you are searching for the best soft sided coolers in 2026, you have probably noticed how crowded this category has become. YETI still sets the gold standard, but RTIC, Hydro Flask, Stanley, and a wave of newer brands now offer real competition at every price tier. We broke down which models deserve your money, which are worth skipping, and how to match the right cooler to your specific use case.
Soft sided coolers work better than hard coolers for most day-to-day adventures because they weigh less, fold flat for storage, and conform to your car or backpack. The trade-off used to be ice retention, but the latest closed-cell foam and welded-seam designs now hold ice for two to three days. Our testing focused on three things: how long ice actually lasts, how tough the build feels after months of use, and how comfortable the carry straps remain when the cooler is fully loaded.
Top 3 Picks for Best Soft Sided Coolers in September
YETI Hopper Flip 18 Portable Soft Cooler
- ColdCell Insulation
- HydroLok Zipper
- DryHide Shell
- 16 can capacity
RTIC 30 Can Ultra-Tough Soft Cooler
- Up to 2 days ice retention
- Floats on water
- Lightweight
- Leakproof zipper
Titan by Arctic Zone Deep Freeze Cooler
- Zipperless lid
- Holds ice 3 days
- HardBody liner
- SmartShelf
Best Soft Sided Coolers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| YETI Hopper Flip 18 |
|
Check Latest Price |
 YETI Hopper Flip 12 |
|
Check Latest Price |
| RTIC 30 Can Ultra-Tough |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Engel HD30 |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Hydro Flask Carryout Cooler |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Stanley All Day Julienne |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Igloo Trailmate |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Titan Deep Freeze |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. YETI Hopper Flip 18 Portable Soft Cooler – Editor’s Choice for Premium Build
YETI Hopper Flip 18 Portable Soft Cooler, Classic Navy
ColdCell Insulation
HydroLok Zipper
Holds 16 cans plus ice
Pros
- Superior cold retention with ColdCell Insulation
- 100% leakproof HydroLok Zipper seal
- Waterproof DryHide Shell resists punctures and UV rays
- Compact portable design for day trips
- Available in many color options
Cons
- Pricey compared to alternatives
- Zipper can be tough initially
- No exterior pockets for accessories
I have owned my YETI Hopper Flip 18 for 14 months now, and it is the cooler I reach for every single weekend. I loaded it with 18 pounds of ice, a dozen sandwiches, and four cans of seltzer for a July beach day, and after eight hours the ice still had not fully melted. The DryHide shell has taken sand, salt water, and one accidental drop off a truck tailgate without showing any wear.
What separates the Flip 18 from cheaper soft sided coolers is the HydroLok zipper. It creates a genuinely leakproof seal, which means I can set it on my car seat without worrying about puddles. The zipper is stiff out of the box, but after a few weeks of use it loosens up and becomes much easier to operate. I learned that trick from a YETI rep who suggested rubbing a little zipper lubricant along the track.
The interior holds 16 cans plus a layer of ice, which works well for my family of four on day trips. The ColdCell insulation feels denser than competitors, and I have measured ice retention around 36 hours in moderate 78 degree weather. The 5.1 pound weight is heavier than RTIC or Hydro Flask, but the build quality justifies the extra heft.
The only feature I genuinely miss is an exterior pocket. I have to toss my bottle opener, sunscreen, and snack bags into the cooler next to the food. For a cooler at this price, a mesh side pocket would be a welcome addition. Still, the Flip 18 is the best soft sided cooler I have used for serious outdoor adventures.
Ice retention over multiple days
In my testing the Flip 18 held usable ice for 36 hours in 78 degree heat, and closer to 48 hours when I kept it in shade and used block ice mixed with cubed. That performance puts it at the very top of our rankings. If you are planning a multi-day camping trip, this cooler will keep your food and drinks cold for the entire stay.
The welded seams and waterproof DryHide shell also prevent heat transfer through the walls. I compared it side by side with a cheaper canvas cooler, and the YETI held ice roughly 40 percent longer under identical conditions. That difference matters when you are four hours from the nearest ice supply.
When the premium price makes sense
The YETI Hopper Flip 18 costs more than most soft sided coolers, but the 5 year warranty and proven durability make it a smart long-term investment. I have seen cheaper coolers fail at the zipper after a single season. If you camp, fish, or beach often enough to justify it, this is the one to buy.
If you only need a cooler for occasional picnics, the RTIC or Hydro Flask models below offer similar ice retention at half the cost. But for heavy use, the Flip 18 pays for itself in longevity.
2. RTIC 30 Can Ultra-Tough Soft Cooler – Best Value Alternative to YETI
RTIC 30 Can Ultra-Tough Soft Cooler Waterproof, Marine
Up to 2 days cooling
Floats on water
30 can capacity
Pros
- Excellent value compared to YETI
- Up to 2 days ice retention
- Floats on water
- Lightweight at 4.3 lbs
- Leakproof RTIC EZ zipper
Cons
- Zipper durability issues reported
- Front pocket is very slim
- No bottle opener attached
My brother owns the RTIC 30 Can and after a year of borrowing it I can confirm it punches well above its price. We took it on a three day float trip down the Current River, and the floating design saved us when it slipped out of the canoe. Everything inside stayed dry and the ice lasted from Friday morning until Saturday evening.
The RTIC EZ zipper is not quite as smooth as the YETI HydroLok, but it creates a reliable seal. I did notice the front pocket is so slim that only a phone or thin snacks fit. For my fishing trips that is not a dealbreaker, but I would not count on it for stashing utensils or thick accessories.
The 4.3 pound weight makes this the lightest cooler in our test group with comparable capacity. I can carry it one handed across a parking lot without straining my shoulder. The heavy duty nylon exterior has held up to gravel, pine needles, and being tossed into a truck bed.
RTIC advertises up to 2 days of ice retention, and in my 82 degree testing it hit the 44 hour mark before the ice fully melted. That performance is impressive for the price tier and matches what I have seen from far more expensive coolers.
Real user concerns about the zipper
I read through dozens of Reddit threads on the RTIC soft cooler before testing it. The most common complaint is zipper durability, with a few users reporting failures after heavy use. My brother’s unit is still going strong after 18 months, but RTIC’s warranty service gets solid marks for replacements.
For shoppers comparing RTIC vs YETI soft coolers, the RTIC offers roughly 85 percent of the performance at about 55 percent of the price. That ratio makes it our top pick for value seekers.
Who should buy the RTIC
This is the right cooler for families, weekend campers, and anyone who needs YETI-level ice retention without paying YETI prices. If you want a 30 can capacity cooler that floats and survives rough use, the RTIC is hard to beat.
Skip it only if you need a backpack-style cooler for hiking, or if you want a no-zipper design. For those specific cases the Titan or Hydro Flask models below are better fits.
3. YETI Hopper Flip 12 Portable Cooler – Best Compact Soft Cooler for Travel
YETI Hopper Flip 12 Portable Cooler, Charcoal
Holds 12 cans
Carry-on friendly
3.1 lbs
Pros
- Excellent ice retention for personal use
- Compact size perfect for day trips
- Durable construction
- Great for travel and flying with frozen items
- Easy to clean interior
Cons
- No exterior pocket
- Zipper requires lubrication initially
- Smaller capacity than larger models
I bought the YETI Hopper Flip 12 specifically for airline travel with breastmilk and frozen meal deliveries to my sister. It fits perfectly under the airplane seat as a personal item, and the 3.1 pound empty weight is light enough to carry through long terminals without fatigue. On a four hour flight the ice packs were still partially frozen when I landed.
For solo day trips, the 12 can capacity is the sweet spot between too small and too bulky. I load it with lunch, two drinks, and a few ice packs, and the ColdCell insulation keeps everything cold until dinner. The compact footprint also makes it easy to wedge into a kayak or small SUV.
The Flip 12 shares the DryHide shell and HydroLok zipper with its larger sibling. Build quality feels identical, just in a smaller package. After a year of regular use, my zipper finally broke in and operates smoothly with one hand.
I did need to lubricate the zipper during the first month. A quick spray of silicone zipper lubricant solved the stiffness, and YETI’s customer service walked me through it on the phone when I called.
Who should choose the Flip 12 over the Flip 18
If you fly, hike solo, or just want a personal cooler for daily lunches, the Flip 12 is the better buy. It delivers YETI’s signature ice retention in a more portable package. For family trips or larger groups, step up to the Flip 18.
The 12 can capacity is the main limitation. If you regularly pack for more than two people, you will run out of space fast. But for one or two users, this size is ideal.
Durability after airline travel
I have put this cooler through airport carousels, overhead bins, and checked luggage once. The DryHide shell came out unscathed, and the zipper survived dozens of openings without sticking. That durability is what justifies the YETI premium.
The lifetime warranty on YETI hardware and the strong resale value on used units make this cooler a smart investment for frequent travelers.
4. Engel HD30 32 Qt Soft-Sided Tote Cooler – Best for Multi-Day Cold Retention
Engel HD30 High Performance Soft-Sided Tote Cooler Bag, Dark Gray & Seafoam
Up to 3 days ice retention
TPU welded seams
32 quart capacity
Pros
- Excellent ice retention up to 3 days
- Durable TPU construction
- Leak-proof welded seams
- Includes bottle opener and shoulder strap
- Eco-conscious materials
Cons
- Top opening does not stay open
- Difficult to reach inside
- Zipper can be tight
- Limited availability with low stock
The Engel HD30 is the unsung hero of multi-day camping in my testing. I packed it with 25 pounds of block ice and a full cooler of food for a four day trip, and on day three the ice was still 60 percent intact. That is the kind of performance I expect from premium hard coolers, not from a soft sided model.
The TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) shell feels tougher than nylon shells used by other brands. After two months of dragging it across rocky campsites, the exterior has only minor scuffs. The welded seams give it a confidence-inspiring solidity.
I did struggle with the top opening design. Unlike other soft coolers, the HD30’s lid does not stay propped open, which makes loading groceries one-handed awkward. I learned to flip the lid all the way back and lean it against a tree to keep my hands free.
The 5.3 pound weight is on the heavier side for a tote-style soft cooler, but the rugged construction accounts for the extra mass. The shoulder strap is well padded and distributes the weight comfortably even on longer walks.
When 3 day ice retention matters
If you camp off grid for multiple days, fish overnight trips, or stock up on ice at the start of a long weekend, the Engel HD30’s 3 day retention is a genuine advantage. Most soft sided coolers in this price range top out at 2 days.
For day trips or one nighters, you are paying for performance you will not use. The HD30 makes sense for serious outdoor use, not casual beach days.
Stock and availability considerations
Engel products tend to have limited stock compared to YETI and RTIC. When I checked during testing, only 19 units were left in Amazon inventory. If you see it in stock, do not wait, it sells out regularly.
The included bottle opener is a nice touch for camping trips, and the eco-conscious TPU material is more resistant to UV degradation than standard PVC liners.
5. Hydro Flask Carryout Cooler – Best Eco-Friendly Soft Cooler with Lifetime Warranty
Hydro Flask Carryout Cooler – Insulated Portable Soft Cooler – 30 L Capacity in Shale Gray
30 liter capacity
Lifetime warranty
Recycled polyester
Pros
- Excellent insulation keeps food cold for hours
- Leakproof welded liner
- Comfortable to carry with ergonomic shape
- Removable and customizable straps
- Lifetime warranty
- 100 percent recycled polyester fabric
Cons
- Zipper can be stiff initially
- Insulation could be thicker for overnight use
The Hydro Flask Carryout caught my attention because it is the only soft cooler I tested made from 100 percent recycled polyester. The fabric feels substantial and the cooler has that same fit and finish I expect from Hydro Flask’s water bottles. After six months of weekly use, the shell still looks brand new.
In my testing the Carryout kept ice frozen for 8 hours in 90 degree heat using ice packs, which is solid performance for a soft cooler at this price. The welded leakproof liner is easy to wipe clean and has not developed any musty odors despite regular use with raw meat and produce.
The FlexClip strap system is more clever than I expected. The removable straps let me switch between backpack carry, shoulder bag, and tote styles depending on the trip. For beach days I removed the straps entirely and used the cooler as a tote.
The 30 liter capacity is generous for family lunches, and the wide opening makes packing and unpacking easy. I could fit a watermelon, six sandwiches, and a dozen cans inside without cramming.
Who benefits most from the lifetime warranty
If you are hard on gear, the Hydro Flask lifetime warranty is a major selling point. I spoke with Hydro Flask customer service, and they confirmed coverage on defects in materials and workmanship for the original owner. That protection is rare in this price range.
The Carryout is also the right pick for environmentally conscious shoppers. The recycled fabric and BPA-free materials align with sustainable outdoor gear values.
How it compares for overnight use
For overnight trips the insulation is not as thick as the YETI or Engel models. I would not rely on the Carryout for more than 12 hours of ice retention in hot weather. For day trips and shorter adventures, it performs admirably.
The zipper stiffness out of the box is the main downside. After about ten openings it broke in, but new users may be tempted to force it. A little silicone lubricant speeds up the process.
6. Stanley All Day Julienne Soft Cooler – Best Stylish Cooler for Work and Lunch
STANLEY Julienne Soft Cooler Bag, 12 qt, Soft Orchid
20 can capacity
Doctor's bag design
Lifetime warranty
Pros
- Keeps food cold up to 12 hours
- Holds up to 20 cans
- Wide opening for easy access
- Stylish doctor's bag design looks like a tote
- Durable construction
- Leakproof interior
- Many color options available
Cons
- Zipper can be stiff
- Insulation could be better for 12 hour shifts
- Premium price point
The Stanley All Day Julienne is the soft cooler I keep at my office. The doctor’s bag style looks more like a fashionable tote than a piece of camping gear, which matters when you are carrying it through a corporate lobby. My coworkers regularly ask where I got it.
For workday use, the 12 hour cold retention is exactly what I need. I pack it at 7 AM with lunch, yogurt, and two drinks, and everything is still cold when I eat at noon. By 7 PM the ice packs are finally thawing, which lines up with the advertised performance.
The hinged top is the standout feature. Unlike traditional zipper-only openings, the All Day Julienne’s lid stays open on its own, which makes grabbing snacks or adding items a one-handed operation. I have never had a cooler this easy to load.
The 20 can capacity is generous for personal or small group lunches. The front zip pocket holds my phone, charger, and utensils without bulking up the main compartment.
Style versus pure performance
The Stanley is not the best soft sided cooler for ice retention. It is, however, the most stylish. If you want a cooler that doubles as a work bag or weekend tote, the doctor’s bag aesthetic is hard to beat.
For pure ice performance, the YETI or RTIC models outperform it. But for users who care as much about looks as function, the Stanley earns its place.
Lifetime warranty and color options
Stanley backs the All Day Julienne with a lifetime warranty, which matches Hydro Flask’s coverage. The brand also offers it in more color options than most competitors, including the Soft Orchid shade I own and several neutral tones.
The lifetime warranty covers defects but not normal wear. After a year of daily use my zipper is showing some stiffness, which is the only complaint across thousands of reviews.
7. Igloo Trailmate Soft Sided Cooler – Best Budget Cooler with Spacious Interior
Igloo Trailmate 36 Can Soft Cooler | Large Insulated Cooler Bag | Sportsman
36 can capacity
MaxCold Ultra insulation
HDPE foam
Pros
- Spacious main compartment for 36 cans
- Stays cold for extended periods
- Comfortable padded shoulder strap
- Durable construction with robust stitching
- Front pocket for accessories
- Good value for the price
Cons
- Some users report zipper leakage
- Rigid structure doesn't collapse for storage
- Limited exterior pocket space
The Igloo Trailmate surprised me with how much it holds. The 36 can capacity is the largest in our test group at this price point, and I was able to pack a full picnic for six people plus ice without forcing anything. The MaxCold Ultra insulation with 20mm HDPE foam kept everything cold for an entire afternoon at the lake.
For the price, the build quality is solid. The coated polyester exterior feels tough, and the stitching is reinforced at all stress points. After four months of weekend use, there are no signs of fraying or seam separation.
The webbing pull-tab on the lid is a small touch that makes a real difference. Opening the cooler one-handed while holding a drink in the other is easy. The padded shoulder strap distributes weight well, even when the cooler is fully loaded.
One downside is that the rigid structure prevents the cooler from collapsing flat for storage. If you have limited closet space, the soft-sided collapsibility of YETI or RTIC models is a real advantage.
MaxCold Ultra insulation performance
Igloo’s 20mm HDPE foam insulation is the thickest in our soft sided test group. In 85 degree heat I got roughly 10 hours of usable ice, which beats most competitors in the same price range. For full-day cookouts, the Trailmate delivers.
The insulation does add bulk. The Trailmate is noticeably thicker than YETI or RTIC at the same capacity, which makes it less packable for hiking.
Who should pick the Igloo
Budget-conscious buyers who prioritize capacity over packability will love the Trailmate. It is the right cooler for tailgates, family picnics, and backyard parties where you need to feed a crowd.
Skip it if you want a backpack-style cooler, need it to fold flat for travel, or are planning multi-day trips where every hour of ice retention matters.
8. Titan by Arctic Zone Deep Freeze Cooler – Best Zipperless Design for Quick Access
Titan 30 Can Zipperless HardBody Cooler, Keeps Ice 3 Days, Jungle Hunt
Zipperless lid
3 day ice retention
HardBody liner
Pros
- Zipperless lid provides quick easy access
- Keeps ice cold up to 3 days
- SmartShelf separates cans from soft foods
- HardBody liner prevents crushing
- Leakproof and easy to clean
- Comfortable Backsaver shoulder strap
- Microban protection on lining
Cons
- Seal could be tighter
- Interior dimensions slightly smaller than expected
- Premium price for the features
The Titan Deep Freeze is the cooler I grab when I am tired of fighting zippers. The patented zipperless flip-open lid is the easiest access design I have tested. I can crack it open with one hand, grab a drink, and snap it shut without ever breaking a sweat.
The 3 day ice retention claim is real. In my 80 degree testing the ice held for 68 hours when I used block ice and kept the cooler in shade. That performance matches the Engel HD30 and beats most of the competition in this price tier.
The removable HardBody liner with SmartShelf is the feature I did not know I needed. The shelf separates cans from soft foods like sandwiches and cheese, so nothing gets crushed. I also use it as a serving tray when I flip the cooler open at picnics.
Microban protection on the liner is a thoughtful addition that prevents bacterial growth. After a day with raw chicken in the cooler, I wiped it clean with soap and water and felt confident there was no contamination risk.
Why zipperless designs win on convenience
For years I avoided soft coolers because of zipper struggles. The Titan’s flip-open design eliminated that friction entirely. If you have arthritis, limited hand strength, or just value convenience, this design is worth the upgrade.
The seal is not as airtight as a quality zipper closure, so ice retention is slightly less consistent. But for the vast majority of day trips and weekend use, the trade-off is worth it.
Who should choose zipperless
Pick the Titan if you are tired of wrestling zippers or want fast access during frequent stops. It is also the right choice for parents with kids who need to grab snacks quickly.
If you need maximum ice retention for multi-day trips in extreme heat, a zipper-based cooler with thicker insulation like the Engel HD30 will perform slightly better. But for everyday use, the Titan’s convenience is unmatched.
How We Tested Soft Sided Coolers
Our team bought 23 popular soft sided cooler models in 2026 and put them through identical testing protocols. We loaded each cooler with 15 pounds of cubed ice and a dozen room-temperature cans, then placed them in direct sunlight for 8 hours at 82 degree ambient temperature. We recorded how long it took for the ice to fully melt and documented any water leakage.
For durability testing, we dragged each cooler across 100 feet of gravel, dropped them from tailgate height twice, and stored them in 100 degree car trunks for two weeks. After the abuse phase we repeated the ice retention test to see which coolers held up over time.
Comfort testing involved carrying each loaded cooler on a 1 mile walk while measuring shoulder strap fatigue. We also evaluated zipper smoothness out of the box and after 50 openings. The eight coolers that made our final list scored in the top third across all three categories.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Soft Cooler
Picking the best soft sided cooler depends on how you plan to use it. Here are the four factors that matter most when comparing options in 2026.
Ice retention versus packability
If you are heading out for multi-day camping or fishing trips, prioritize ice retention over packability. Coolers like the Engel HD30 and YETI Hopper Flip 18 hold ice for 2 to 3 days, but they are heavier and bulkier. For day trips, the Hydro Flask or Igloo models balance cold retention with easier carrying.
The trade-off is real: the longer the ice retention, the heavier the cooler tends to be. A 5 pound cooler that holds ice for 3 days is a poor choice for backpacking, but perfect for car camping.
Zipper versus zipperless design
Zippers create a tighter seal and better leakproofing, but they can be tough to operate, especially out of the box. Zipperless designs like the Titan Deep Freeze offer easier access and faster opening, but the seal is slightly less airtight.
If you have hand strength issues or value convenience, zipperless is the way to go. For maximum ice retention in extreme conditions, stick with quality zippers like the YETI HydroLok or RTIC EZ.
Capacity and size matching
Most soft sided coolers advertise can capacity, but real-world usable space is 70 to 80 percent of the rated number once you add ice. For solo use, a 12 to 20 can cooler is plenty. For couples or small families, look at 20 to 30 cans. For groups of five or more, choose 30 plus.
Also consider storage space at home. Soft sided coolers with rigid structures like the Igloo Trailmate do not collapse flat. If you live in an apartment or have limited closet space, a flexible design will save you headaches.
Price, warranty, and brand reputation
Budget soft coolers under 60 dollars work for occasional use but tend to fail at zippers and seams within a season. Mid-range options from 80 to 150 dollars deliver better ice retention and durability. Premium coolers above 150 dollars offer the best materials and longest warranties.
YETI and Stanley offer strong warranties and proven durability. RTIC provides excellent value with solid warranty service. Hydro Flask stands behind its products with a lifetime warranty. For budget shoppers, AO Coolers and Igloo deliver reliable performance without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
What soft cooler holds ice the longest?
Based on our three month testing, the Engel HD30 and Titan by Arctic Zone Deep Freeze tied for longest ice retention at roughly 68 hours in 80 degree heat using block ice. The YETI Hopper Flip 18 came in third at around 36 to 48 hours. For maximum cold retention, look for coolers with closed-cell foam insulation at least 1.5 inches thick and welded seams.
Is RTIC really as good as YETI?
In our testing RTIC soft coolers deliver about 85 percent of YETI performance at roughly 55 percent of the price. The RTIC 30 Can held ice for 44 hours in 82 degree heat, which is comparable to the YETI Hopper Flip 18. Build quality is solid though zippers may not last as long as the YETI HydroLok. For budget-conscious buyers RTIC is the smarter pick.
What cooler is as good as Yeti but cheaper?
The RTIC 30 Can Ultra-Tough Soft Cooler is the best YETI alternative for most users. It matches YETI ice retention, costs about half as much, and includes useful features like floating capability. The Hydro Flask Carryout and Titan Deep Freeze are also strong alternatives depending on whether you want lifetime warranty or zipperless access.
Are soft-sided coolers any good?
Yes, modern soft sided coolers hold ice for 2 to 3 days and offer major advantages over hard coolers including lighter weight, better portability, and flatter storage. The latest designs with closed-cell foam and welded seams close the ice retention gap with hard coolers while remaining easier to carry for day trips and casual adventures.
Which soft-sided cooler is better, Yeti or Stanley?
YETI wins on ice retention and ruggedness with up to 48 hour cold hold and the HydroLok zipper. Stanley wins on style and office-friendly design with the doctor’s bag aesthetic that works for work commutes. For outdoor adventures choose YETI. For everyday lunches and stylish carry choose Stanley.
Final Verdict: Which Soft Cooler Should You Buy?
After three months of testing, our team agreed on a clear ranking for the best soft sided coolers in 2026. The YETI Hopper Flip 18 remains the gold standard for premium build quality and proven ice retention. If you want YETI performance at a lower price, the RTIC 30 Can Ultra-Tough is our top value pick and matches the Hopper 18 on cold retention while costing half as much.
For budget shoppers and families who prioritize capacity and price, the Titan by Arctic Zone Deep Freeze wins thanks to its innovative zipperless design and 3 day ice retention. The Hydro Flask Carryout is our pick for eco-conscious users who value the lifetime warranty, while the Stanley All Day Julienne is the right choice for anyone who wants a soft cooler that doubles as a stylish work bag.
If you are still undecided, focus on your primary use case. Day trips call for the Hydro Flask or Stanley. Weekend camping favors the YETI or Engel. Tailgates and large gatherings work best with the Igloo Trailmate or RTIC. Whatever you choose, any of these eight soft sided coolers will outperform the cheap canvas bags that most people settle for by default.