Rating of TOP 9 cooler bags. Expert advice on selection and review of models

Rating of the TOP 9 best cooler bags

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Varieties

Portable thermal insulating products are conventionally divided into two types:

• maintaining the desired temperature.
• actively cooling.

The first type includes thermal bags and thermal containers with or without cooling elements. The second type includes car refrigerators - devices connected to the car electrical network, powered by a battery or a gas cylinder. These devices cool food like a regular refrigerator as long as the right power source is available.

Most thermal bags are made of soft fabric and do not have a rigid frame. Such models are not used for storing and carrying non-hermetically sealed liquids and foods that easily lose their shape (cakes, pastries, desserts). Thanks to their soft shape and handles, they are comfortable to carry in your hands or on your shoulder.

Containers are containers made of plastic or thick fabric stretched over a rigid frame. Suitable for transporting almost any product. You can carry it in your hands, but it is more convenient to transport it on a bicycle or in a vehicle.

Inside both of them there can be pockets for placing cold batteries.

What to look for when choosing a cooler bag?

How to choose? When purchasing a cooler bag, you need to pay attention to the following characteristics:

1. Volume and weight. The smaller these parameters, the easier it is to carry the bag yourself. Therefore, you need to decide how the bag will be delivered to its destination. If you transport it in a car, you can choose models with a volume of more than 40 liters. When you have to carry it yourself, less than 30 liters is enough.
2. Material on the outside. It is better if the device is made of durable plastic or fabric that is water-repellent (for example, nylon, polyester, polyvinyl chloride). Such materials are easy to clean and dry quickly.
3. Material inside. Cooler bags made from PVC keep the cold for 12 hours. If they are equipped with batteries, then within 24 hours. And polyethylene products perform their function for no more than 3 hours.
4. Wall thickness. A bag with thin walls will not retain cold for long. The optimal thickness is about 5 cm.
5. Handles, wheels. Lightweight, compact thermal bags have comfortable straps with a soft backing. If the product is large in size, then it should have rollers for comfortable transportation.
6. Cold accumulators. Large refrigerators must have at least 4 batteries, which are located on the walls and lid.

How does an insulated container work?

A thermal box or isothermal container is an analogue of a thermal bag and they work on a similar principle, but its frame is more rigid, since the outer shell is made of plastic. They are good to use when traveling by car. Thermoboxes come in small sizes or are large containers that can hold a lot of food or drinks.

Thermal bags weigh less than thermal boxes, and when folded they take up much less space. An insulated container has a stable shape. Thermal containers hold from 1 to 140 liters. Small ones, 2.5 liters, weigh no more than 360 g, and if the isothermal device is large, then its weight can reach 20 kg.

Thermal containers with a capacity of up to 10 liters are equipped with one handle. And the big ones usually have 2 handles. Some models are equipped with a lock in the handle that prevents spontaneous opening of the thermobox. If the isothermal device is very large, then it is installed on 2-4 supporting rollers and equipped with retractable handles.

Important! Isothermal containers are not capable of cooling, but only maintain the required temperature regime in the presence of refrigerants.

How long does the bag keep cold and what does the operating time depend on?

The operating time of devices depends on their types:

1. Thermal bag . It is made from fabric and has a thin isothermal layer. Usually small volume - about 3 liters. Withstands cold for 2-3 hours.
2. Thermal container. It has a thicker isolayer and a rigid frame. It is made in the form of a backpack, a bag on wheels. Maintains temperature for 5-6 hours.
3. Cooler bag with batteries. A spacious container for transporting food and drinks. Keeps cold throughout the day. It is possible to connect the charger to the car battery, thereby increasing the operating time.

table-02

There are different types of cold accumulators.
Mostly there are bags made of durable film and flat plastic containers. If you keep such a product in the freezer and then place it in a cooler bag along with food, it will not only help them last longer in the heat, but will also lower their temperature - at least at first. It is advisable to put the products in the bag chilled. There are different types of cold accumulators. Mostly there are bags made of durable film and flat plastic containers. If you keep such a product in the freezer and then place it in a cooler bag along with food, it will not only help them last longer in the heat, but will also lower their temperature - at least at first. It is advisable to put the products in the bag chilled.

We purchased several folding soft thermal bags of different capacities. Rigid insulated containers have been left for the future - they are in a different price range and also take up more space. We chose products from three companies - two models from each. The origin, judging by the internal labels, is all Chinese, although the brands are European and American. Volume - from 16 liters (bag with two compartments: 6 + 10 liters) to thirty, price - from 770 to 2600 rubles.

Two words about the methodology. In each of the bags we put one cold storage battery weighing 770 grams, pre-cooled in a household freezer to a temperature of -25 °C. Then we loaded the food - a couple of bottles of water and one chocolate bar each, having previously cooled them to +4 °C. All that remains is to observe how the state of the products will change over the course of eight hours at an ambient temperature of +26 °C. They assessed it extremely simply - they measured the temperature of bottled water every hour.

The bag with two compartments, 6‑ and 10‑liter, held out the cold best of all. Moreover, for testing we used only a 10-liter compartment, and a 6-liter compartment would certainly have shown better results - but it turned out to be too small for our tests.

Rating of the best cooler bags

Let's consider the best device models, according to customer reviews in terms of price and quality. The rating included 9 popular models.

Green Glade Isothermal bag T1063

A compact product that has a pleasant green tint.

A fairly roomy portable bag that is easy to carry thanks to the padded handles and straps.

The product is equipped with additional pockets. The bag holds its shape well, thanks to the dense material and frame.

The shoulder strap is equipped with carabiners - the length can be adjusted.

Specifications:

• outer material - polyester;
• type of cooling - a cooling battery is required;
• duration of temperature preservation - 12 hours;
• height - 39 cm;
• width - 35 cm;
• depth - 25.5 cm;
• weight - 0.8 kg.

Advantages

• capacity;
• compactness;
• durable material;
• low cost;
• easy to clean;
• comfortable handles;
• presence of additional wide pockets.

Flaws

• carabiners are unreliable - made of plastic;
• not suitable for long trips of more than a day;
• Batteries need to be purchased separately; they are not included.

Airline Cooler Bag

A practical bag with a stylish, sporty design.

This product can be used both for transporting food and things.

It is equipped with many additional pockets and compartments, so despite its compact dimensions it is quite roomy.

The interior trim is made of polypropylene and foil material. Comfortable handles are equipped with soft pads.

Specifications:

• outer material - polyester;
• type of cooling - thermal insulation layer made of polyurethane foam;
• Duration of maintaining temperature - 5-6 hours;
• height - 23 cm;
• width - 43 cm;
• depth - 22 cm;
• weight - 0.8 kg.

Advantages

• compact dimensions;
• comfortable handles;
• low price;
• holds temperature well;
• high-quality manufacturing;
• stylish exterior;
• stable bottom.

Flaws

• lightning jams periodically;
• plastic carabiners on the belt are unreliable;
• In hot weather, food and drinks cool down faster.

Arctic Thermal bag 010

A small, portable product with comfortable handles is an excellent option for a family picnic.

The material on the inside is easy to clean, water does not seep through, so the bag dries quickly.

The product is designed for long-term use, thanks to high-quality tailoring and fabrics.

To keep the cold longer, you need to use batteries.

Specifications:

• outer material - polyester;
• type of cooling - a cooling battery is required;
• Duration of temperature retention - up to 12 hours;
• height - 39 cm;
• width - 33.5 cm;
• depth - 25.5 cm;
• weight -1 kg.

Advantages

• ease of use;
• Beautiful design;
• high-quality tailoring;
• holds temperature well;
• when folded it does not take up much space;
• comfortable handles.

Flaws

• high cost for such functionality;
• the new product has a strong chemical smell inside - you need to wash it immediately;
• The set does not include a battery.

Igloo Cooler Bag Collapse&cool

This model will be an excellent addition to picnics for large groups, thanks to its compactness and spaciousness.

The cooler bag is made of heavy-duty material that is easy to wash and dries quickly.

The inside of the product has a foil layer that provides waterproofness and an antibacterial effect.

The bag contains a special valve from which you can remove food and drinks without the cold escaping. The handles can be folded and secured with Velcro.

Specifications:

• outer material - fabric;
• type of cooling - thermal insulation layer;
• Duration of temperature retention - up to 6 hours;
• height - 39 cm;
• width - 35 cm;
• depth - 29.5 cm;
• weight - 0.6 kg.

Advantages

• compactness;
• convenient use;
• a light weight;
• good usable volume;
• the presence of an antibacterial coating inside;
• valve for easy access to products;
• comfortable handles and straps.

Flaws

• high price;
• refrigerant must be purchased additionally;
• marking.

Ezetil Cooler Bag Premium 18

A bag made of high quality material, characterized by compactness and stylish design.

The model has several additional pockets for storing and carrying various small items.

Converts into a backpack for more comfortable transportation.

The inner lining is seamless, preventing leaks.

Specifications:

• outer material - fabric;
• cooling type - PEVA thermal insulation layer;
• Duration of maintaining temperature - 3-4 hours;
• height - 33 cm;
• width - 38 cm;
• depth - 21 cm;
• weight - 0.64 kg.

Advantages

• stylish design;
• high-quality manufacturing;
• comfortable belt;
• many additional pockets;
• a light weight.

Flaws

• high price;
• weak lightning - may break;
• Batteries must be purchased separately.

Camping World Isothermal Snowbag 38181

A fabric product with high-quality tailoring and a stylish exterior.

The total useful volume of the insulated bag is 30 liters.

The product maintains a low temperature for a long time, making it an excellent companion for a picnic or on the beach.

Good for keeping drinks cool.

Specifications:

• outer material - fabric;
• type of cooling - thermal insulation layer;
• duration of temperature preservation - 14 hours;
• height - 36 cm;
• width - 39 cm;
• depth - 33 cm;
• weight - 0.84 kg.

Advantages

• good capacity;
• low cost;
• keeps cool well;
• comfortable handles and strap;
• Beautiful design.

Flaws

• poorly maintains the temperature of refrigerated foods;
• flimsy zipper;
• You need to buy additional batteries.

Ezetil Freestyle Thermal Bag

An original product with a sporty design that helps keep small quantities of food fresh.

Great for romantic picnics or carrying lunches to work.

The padded strap ensures comfortable transportation of the mini-fridge.

When folded, the product does not take up much space.

Specifications:

• outer material - fabric;
• type of cooling - a cooling battery is required;
• Duration of temperature preservation - 9 hours;
• height - 29 cm;
• width - 31 cm;
• depth - 26 cm;
• weight - 0.6 kg.

Advantages

• compactness;
• good usable volume;
• low price;
• high-quality tailoring;
• long-term temperature retention.

Flaws

• not suitable for large companies;
• batteries must be purchased separately;
• easily soiled fabric.

Mobicool Sail Cooler Bag

A transformable bag that can be converted into a stylish backpack.

In stores, the model is presented in blue and gray colors. The design is very convenient for walking to the park or to the beach.

The laconic design without intricate or unnecessary details makes the product universal.

Specifications:

• outer material - polyester;
• type of cooling - a cooling battery is required;
• duration of temperature preservation - 12 hours;
• height - 36 cm;
• width - 33 cm;
• depth - 32 cm;
• weight - 0.8 kg.

Advantages

• laconic design;
• Ease of use;
• capacity;
• handle lining with soft filler;
• long-term preservation of food freshness.

Flaws

• high price;
• there is an unpleasant smell inside - you need to wash it immediately;
• the material on the outside gets dirty quickly.

Green Glade Isothermal bag T1061

An excellent model for lovers of outdoor activities - stylish design in tandem with practicality.

The outer material is polyester in a pleasant green color. If you purchase refrigerant, you can maintain a low temperature for up to 12 hours.

The bag is equipped with many additional compartments for more comfortable use.

Specifications:

• outer material - polyester;
• type of cooling - a cooling battery is required;
• duration of temperature preservation - 12 hours;
• height - 27 cm;
• width - 25.5 cm;
• depth - 18 cm;
• weight - 0.5 kg.

Advantages

• low price;
• stylish appearance;
• high-quality tailoring;
• strong handles;
• holds temperature for a long time;
• presence of additional pockets;
• The length of the belt can be adjusted.

Flaws

• The cooling battery must be purchased separately;
• The belt adjustment mounts are unreliable;
• small capacity.

Product Features

A cooler bag is usually a container with carrying handles designed to hold refrigerated foods. It can be made in a fabric case with additional compartments and pockets, sometimes with a shoulder strap in the format of a backpack or plastic box. Using the device involves both positive and negative aspects.

So, when traveling, a cooler bag will allow you to:

• take perishable foods with you;
• have cold drinks on hand;
• protect things from grease and food odors.

But when planning a trip, it is important to consider the disadvantages of portable refrigerators:

• extra weight;
• takes up more space as luggage than a regular bag;
• The time for keeping the cold inside is limited.

However, all these disadvantages can be negated if you choose the right type and model of thermal bag, taking into account the intended conditions of use. If we talk about the principle of operation of the device, everything is simple. To maintain low temperatures in portable thermal bags, use:

• heat-insulating filler;
• cold accumulators;
• active cooling.

Each of the listed solutions is selected by the user depending on the task assigned to him and the specific type of accessory.

An insulated cooler bag works like a regular fur coat or blanket. Its walls are made of a thick layer of foam or other insulating material that protects the cold contents from the warm environment. The lining is usually made of reflective fabric, which also reduces heat loss. This principle of operation of the cooler bag will ensure cold storage for two to seven hours, no more.

An insulated bag is not intended for long-term cooling of products. This is not a real refrigerator. It does not generate cold, but only protects the contents from heating.

A more effective scheme is using cold accumulators (cold cells), when the walls of the device are lined with containers with chilled or frozen liquid. How long a cooler bag keeps cold depends on how quickly the cold elements heat up. Cold accumulators can be used with any thermal bag, even if this is not provided by the manufacturer.

Devices that can not only retain cold, but also produce it, necessarily consume electricity. If the cooler bag uses a car battery as a power source, you need to make sure that it does not run out. To avoid such troubles, some models only operate when the engine is on, so they may defrost during long-term parking.

The most commonly used thermoelectric and compressor portable refrigerators. The first ones use Peltier elements to cool products 15-30 °C below ambient temperature. They may have an LCD display, an audible alarm, even a built-in temperature recorder. This cooler bag weighs 3-5 kg, runs on battery power for several hours, so it is useful not only for motorists.

A Peltier element is a plate that, when electricity passes through itself, heats up on one side and cools on the other.

Heavy and bulky compressor models rarely come in a bag format. They weigh from 10 kg and do not tolerate being turned over, so they are most often used in spacious cars and yachts.

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conclusions

A cooler bag will help you enjoy cool drinks and fresh food in nature.

When choosing a product, you need to pay special attention to the following characteristics:

• sizes - depend on the buyer's requirements;
• material of manufacture - the bag may be branded and poorly resistant to cold due to low-quality materials;
• wall thickness - the thicker, the longer the low temperature remains.

General operating rules

Whatever the internal structure of the cooler bag, its main drawback is its inability to maintain a stable temperature. Warmth slowly seeps inside. Even a thermoelectric refrigerator capable of active cooling has a hard time coping with the heat. Therefore, you have to constantly think about how to keep your cooler bag cold.

A few simple rules will help you increase the useful life of your device:

• open the bag only when necessary;
• close as quickly as possible;
• tightly surrounded by other luggage;
• use every opportunity for additional thermal insulation (put a jacket or blanket on top);
• load only chilled and frozen foods inside;
• do not leave the device in the sun;
• Always check that the lid is tightly closed.

Before using a thermal bag, you need to cool it for several hours: put the isothermal bag in the refrigerator, plug the thermoelectric bag into the network and let it work, freeze the cold elements.

The larger the volume of the internal space, the longer the low temperature inside the container will remain, especially if it is fully loaded with chilled products or cold packs.

The bag must be tightly closed

Don't leave in the sun for long

Open only when necessary

Load food chilled