Soft Sided Coolers: An Overview
When it comes to keeping your drinks and food cold during outdoor activities or extended travel, soft-sided coolers are a popular and convenient option. These coolers are lightweight and easy to carry, making them perfect for picnics, boat trips, camping, or any other outdoor activities. In this article, we’ll delve into the best soft-sided coolers available on the market and help you choose the one that best suits your needs.
Top Soft Sided Cooler Features to Consider
Before we dive into our top picks, let’s evaluate what to look for when selecting a soft-sided cooler.
Insulation:
The insulating material and technology are essential for keeping your drinks and foods chilled. High-density foam insulation with multiple layers is the best option for maintaining the temperature of your cooler.
Capacity:
The cooler’s holding capacity is a crucial factor for consideration, and you need a cooler that can withstand long hours. Depending on your needs, choose a cooler that can hold sufficient ice and all of your perishable food products.
Durability:
Look for a cooler tough enough to withstand water, dust, and other elements. The cooler should have an excellent coating to prevent water leaks, rips, and punctures.
Portability:
If you’re frequently on the go, choose a cooler that’s lightweight, compact, and comfortable to carry around. A cooler with a convenient handle or shoulder strap to facilitate transportation is an ideal choice.
Best Soft Sided Coolers on the Market
Now that you know what features to consider, here are our top picks for the best soft-sided coolers:
1. Yeti Hopper Backflip 24
Yeti Hopper Backflip 24 is an excellent option for people who want the best of the best. This cooler is made from high-density foam for efficient insulation, and it can hold up to 20 cans with a recommended 2:1 ice-to-content ratio. It is also 100% leakproof, has a waterproof and puncture-resistant shell, and is easy to carry around thanks to the comfortable shoulder strap.
2. Engel HD30 Waterproof Soft-Sided Cooler Bag
If you’re looking for a spacious cooler that’s also lightweight, the Engel HD30 Waterproof Soft-Sided Cooler Bag is a great choice. It can hold up to 30 cans, has 1-inch closed-cell foam insulation, and has a waterproof TPU-coated nylon shell that resists punctures.
3. Coleman 30-Can Soft Cooler
The Coleman 30-Can Soft Cooler is another great option that offers both affordability and functionality. With a reasonable price, the cooler features a good insulating design, a welded leak-proof seam, and can hold up to 30 cans. It’s made of polyester, comes with an adjustable shoulder strap and side handles, making it easy to transport wherever you go.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. How long does the ice last in a soft-sided cooler?
The duration the ice lasts in a soft-sided cooler depends on the quality and design of the cooler. Generally, a well-insulated cooler can keep the ice frozen for up to three days, while less insulated options can keep ice for 24 hours
2. Can I put dry ice in a soft-sided cooler?
Yes, you can put dry ice in a soft-sided cooler; however, you should not handle it directly as it can cause skin burn.
3. Are soft-sided coolers waterproof?
Soft-sided coolers have varying degrees of waterproofing. Some are 100% waterproof, while others will resist light splashes and spills. Verify the cooler details to see how well it can withstand water and moisture pressure.
Conclusion
When you need to keep your drinks and food chilled on the go, a soft-sided cooler is a fantastic alternative. With the options above, you can pick the best soft-sided cooler that suits your budget, size, weight, and cooling needs. Ensure your soft-sided cooler is durable with sufficient insulation, capacity, and portability, and you’ll never have to worry about the quality of your food or beverages again.
