If you're in search of a cooler that's both portable and practical, collapsible coolers for travel are your go to solution. These coolers can easily fit into your luggage or carry on, making them an ideal companion for your beach getaways or any travel adventure.
Looking for a convenient way to carry your drinks and snacks while on holidays? Then collapsible coolers for travel are for you. These coolers are perfect for those who want to pack light and still have access to cold drinks and snacks on the go. They are a convenient option if you're looking to pack a cooler in your luggage or carry on and make a great addition to your travel.
Whether you're heading to the beach, camping, or just need to keep your drinks cold on a road trip, collapsible coolers are a great option. In this article we've rounded up the best collapsible travel coolers so you can find the perfect one for your next adventure.
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Here's our TOP PICK if you don't feel like reading the entire article:
The MaelStrom Collapsible Cooler is our TOP PICK because it's super light weight, comes in a wide range of colors and has a great little lid compartment to keep more fragile items from getting squished in the main compartment.
Why Should You Consider Collapsible Coolers For Travel?
Let's face it, not all of us live a stone's throw away from a beach or an exotic destination. More often than not, a plane ticket is involved in our travel plans. This is where a collapsible cooler for travel becomes a game changer. When you're flying to your getaway, every inch of luggage space is precious, and collapsible coolers are designed to maximize that space. They can easily be folded down to fit into your suitcase, and once you arrive, they can be expanded to hold all your drinks and snacks.
But the benefits don't stop at convenience. If you've ever traveled to destinations like the Caribbean or overseas, you know that the cost of everyday items can be exorbitant. A simple bottle of water or a snack can set you back quite a bit. So, to rely on purchasing a cooler when you get to your destination could easily set you back double the cost you would have paid at home. Bringing a collapsible travel cooler allows you to stock up on essentials before you head out for the day, saving you a significant amount of money in the long run.
So, while we're not here to hard sell you on anything, we do think that collapsible coolers for travel offer a practical and economical solution for your travel adventures. They provide the comfort of having your refreshments within arm's reach, without the hefty price tag that often comes with buying on-the-go in tourist hotspots.
In essence, a collapsible cooler for travel gives you the best of both worlds: the convenience you're accustomed to and the cost-saving benefits you'll appreciate.
6 Best Collapsible Coolers For Travel
Needless to say, we've been through our share of coolers on our beach travels. When we're planning our holidays we're always looking to find collapsible coolers that are both durable and convenient. We also don't like paying the high prices that brands like YETI and ORCA charge. While they may be some of the best travel coolers out there, we don't feel we need to spend the money. We prefer a collapsible cooler that will more than fit our everyday travel needs without breaking the bank.
When searching for the best collapsible coolers for travel, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the size of the cooler and how much you need to pack. Second, think about the material the cooler is made from and how durable it is. Lastly, consider any additional features, such as pockets or straps, that may be useful for your specific needs.
Here are our top picks for the best collapsible coolers for travel.
1. CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag
The CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag is a great option for a cooler that is easy to store and transport. It's versatile and sturdy, making it a great choice for a variety of activities.
This cooler is perfect for a day trip or a short journey. It is easy to collapse and store when not in use, and the integrated bottle opener and front zippered pouch make it a convenient option for those who need to bring valuables with them. The side handles and padded top handle also make it easy to transport.
SHOP clevermade collapsible cooler on amazonPros
- Easy to open and close, even when empty.
- The soft sided cooler is sturdy and can hold up to 55 pounds.
Cons
- The cooler may not keep food and drinks cold overnight.
- The water may start to leak after extended use.
2. Maelstrom Soft Cooler Bag
If you're looking for a large-capacity, collapsible cooler for your next outdoor adventure, the Maelstrom Soft Cooler Bag is a great option.
If you're planning a camping, hiking, or picnic trip, the Maelstrom Soft Cooler Bag is a great option to keep your food and drinks cold for hours. The cooler's thoughtful design and durable construction make it a reliable choice for any outdoor activity.
SHOP maelstrom soft cooler bag on amazonPros
- The Maelstrom Soft Cooler Bag is extra-large yet lightweight, making it easy to carry around.
- The cooler is designed with 5 layers of insulation allowing the cooler to keep food or drinks cold for up to 12 hours.
- It has double stitched carry options, reinforced pick-up points, shoulder straps, and carry handles.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the cooler is not as leakproof as advertised.
3. Lifewit Collapsible Cooler Bag
If you're looking for a cooler that can keep your food and drinks cool or warm for more than 5 hours, the Lifewit Collapsible Cooler Bag is a great choice.
This cooler bag is perfect for those who are always on the go. The leakproof and waterproof design makes it easy to carry around without worrying about spills. The convenient and portable design allows you to carry it easily, and the front and side extra pocket can hold small items like keys and earbuds. Overall, the Lifewit Collapsible Cooler Bag is a great investment for anyone who wants to keep their food and drinks cool or warm while on the go.
SHOP lifewit collapsible cooler on amazonPros
- This large capacity cooler can hold up to 40 cans of coke (330ml) or your lunch such as sandwiches, salad, snacks, drinks, and fruits.
- The exterior of the lunch box is constructed out of 600D water-resistant dirt-proof Oxford fabric for durability and water proofing and easy cleaning.
Cons
- The lining of the bag is fairly thinly lined.
- The straps are less sturdy than other collapsible coolers on the market.
4. Tourit Collapsible Cooler Bag
If you are looking for a large capacity collapsible cooler bag that can hold up to 48 cans of your favorite drink, then TOURIT Cooler Bag is the perfect choice for you. With its long-term cooling time, 100% leak-proof feature, and multiple carrying options, this cooler bag is an ideal companion for your beach, camping, hiking, or any outdoor activities.
This cooler bag uses high-density insulating materials and waterproof materials to ensure that your food or drinks stay cool for up to 12 hours. The cooler bag is designed with a padded handle and a detachable shoulder strap, providing various ways of carrying methods. It is also equipped with a front pocket and two mesh pockets for easy storage of items. With a bottle opener, you can enjoy a cool drink anywhere!
The elastic rope on the top of the cover allows you to put towels and other daily necessities or use it to fold the bag up easily to save space when not in use.
SHOP tourit collapsible cooler on amazonPros
- Long-term cooling time
- 100% leak-proof
Cons
- May not fit in smaller luggage
- The shoulder strap may not be comfortable for long periods of time
- The bottle opener may not be very durable
5. Youngoa Collapsible Cooler Bag
If you're looking for a cooler bag that is easy to pack and transport, the Youngoa Cooler Bag is a great option. It features a 180° full opening for easy loading and unloading, Molle webbing that allows you to carry extra pouches and gear, and several pockets for storing smaller items such as dinner plates and snacks.
In addition, the Youngoa Cooler Bag comes with a shoulder strap for easy carrying, and the design is simple yet functional. It is a great choice for those who are looking for a durable, insulated, and leak-proof cooler bag that can hold a large amount of items.
SHOP youngoa collapsible cooler on amazonPros
- The Youngoa Cooler Bag can be folded down to less than 3.9 inches, making it easy to pack in your luggage or carry-on.
- When opened, the cooler bag can hold up to 48 cans.
- The military-grade 900D Oxford cloth, high-quality thickened EPE pearl cotton inner core, and seamless hot-pressed PEVA lining make this cooler bag durable, insulated, and leak-proof.
Cons
- Like most, the bag IS heavy when full.
- Carry straps aren’t the greatest. Not padded, making it a little uncomfortable to carry especially when full.
6. TuErCao Collapsible Cooler Tote
If you're looking for a stylish and spacious cooler tote for your beach travels, the TuErCao Cooler Tote is a great option. With its leak-proof and durable design, you can keep your drinks cool for up to 24 hours while enjoying your day under the sun.
The TuErCao Cooler Tote is a great option for those who want a stylish and spacious cooler tote for their beach travels. With its leak-proof and durable design, you can keep your drinks cool for up to 24 hours while enjoying your day under the sun.
SHOP tuercao collapsible tote on amazonPros
- It has multiple compartments for your daily necessities, such as keys, cell phones, napkins etc.
- It can also be folded flat for space-saving storage.
Cons
- The shoulder strap might not be comfortable when full.
- While this design is more sleek and eye catching, it doesn’t allow for as much storage as other more squared off collapsible coolers for travel do.
Collapsible Coolers For Travel Buying Guide
When choosing a collapsible cooler for travel, there are a few important features to consider. By keeping these features in mind, you can choose the best collapsible cooler for your travel needs and enjoy cold drinks and snacks on the go.
Size Of Collapsible Cooler
The first is size. You want to make sure the cooler is large enough to hold all of your food and drinks, but not so large that it becomes cumbersome to carry. Look for coolers that balance the best of size and convenience.
The Insulation Of A Collapsible Cooler
A good cooler should be able to keep your food and drinks cold for several hours, even in hot weather. Look for coolers with thick insulation and airtight seals to keep the cold air in and the warm air out.
How Durable Is The Collapsible Cooler?
Your cooler will be subjected to a lot of wear and tear during travel, so you want to make sure it can hold up to the challenge. Look for coolers made from tough, tear-resistant materials like nylon or polyester.
What Additional Features Does The Cooler Have?
Finally, consider additional features like pockets for storing utensils and accessories, adjustable straps for comfortable carrying, and collapsible designs that make packing and storing the cooler a breeze.
Final Thoughts On Collapsible Coolers For Travel
Collapsible coolers for travel are the ultimate convenience for those who prefer to roam freely without being weighed down by cumbersome gear. These coolers effortlessly slide into your luggage or carry on, making them a versatile travel companion. Whether you're beach bound or hitting the open road, these coolers are fantastic for keeping your drinks chilled.
This list of best collapsible coolers are all mid price range choices. They boast durability, are super light and user friendly. With a variety of sizes and hues to pick from, you're sure to find one that aligns perfectly with your travel needs without breaking the bank.
We trust that this article has simplified your decision making process for selecting a collapsible cooler for your upcoming travels. Any of these choices will seamlessly integrate into your travel plans without adding any unnecessary bulk to your baggage.
Pack up and make sure a collapsible cooler for travel is on your checklist for your next adventure!
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