(For ones that did not come with a recommendation, we filled them with cans and ice in a ratio that a user realistically would choose). Once filled with ice and cans of beverages, we let them sit for a while. We also let them sit overnight, and then took a temperature reading at 24 hours after filling to see how they would hold up for an entire day (for purposes of camping or other extended activity). Carhartt uses its classic 1200-denier polyester and some proprietary durable water repellent to boost the durability of this pack.
Also a good choice for youngsters who are new to hiking, or who need a rugged pack for toting school items. Consider what you’ll primarily be using the cooler for and how much padding you’d like (and where you’d like that padding to be). If you’re taking a cooler on ozark trail backpack an extended hike, you probably want to look for lighter weight packs with hip and sternum straps and some extra padding. If you’re simply going to the beach or other destination where you won’t be carrying very far, you can prioritize other features over comfort.
The Hiking Backpack Eagle bag is our top choice for the best Ozark Trail backpack. This backpack is a hiker’s dream thanks to its spacious 40-liter volume, shoe compartment, attachment points for trekking poles, and hydration pouch compatibility. This bag comes with a rain cover in its lower compartment, which gives you the freedom to tackle your next climb even with some precipitation.
Between the two- and 24-hour marks, we tested for portability and durability while they were filled with cans and ice. We wore the backpacks around the lab, including walking up and down stairs to test for comfort and ease of carrying. We also pushed the coolers off tables onto a concrete floor, turned the backpack coolers upside down, and tipped them over to see if they would leak or become damaged.
After 24 hours, the RTIC still had about 50 percent solid ice, on par with Yeti’s Hopper BackFlip cooler. Also similar to the Hopper BackFlip, RTIC employs some serious premium insulation to help keep contents inside the cooler cold. Like the Yeti Hopper BackFlip, IceMule’s Boss is heavy-duty, rugged, and spendy.
Whether you’re getting ready to head out hiking, going shopping, or traveling, this backpack is up to the job! It features a front zippered pocket for your accessories and keys and a large open main compartment for everything else. Make sure to let a friend or family member know what you’re doing and where you’re going. Tell someone how many days you’ll be gone and approximately where you think you’ll stay each night. Physically check in by filling out a backpacking card at dedicated trailheads. Also, learn the seven principles of “Leave No Trace” to keep the backcountry beautiful.
While it didn’t do as well at cold and ice-retention as other packs we tested, our testers loved how comfortable and easy it was to carry. They also enjoyed the cooler pack’s simplistic design and school backpack feel. One main issue with this pack is the leaking through the zipper. Our ozark trail chair testers noted that this pack couldn’t be turned upside down if you use loose ice, which inevitably melts. But don’t let the simple design fool you—the Pro has some suped-up tech and features, making this pack a great option, especially if going onto the water is in your outdoor plans.
Most of the backpacks on this list have compartments for food or sleeping bags, water bottle pockets, attachment points for trekking poles, and rain covers. Look for the extras that are right for you and your intended activity, whether it’s multiple storage spaces for cutlery, anti-mildew fabric, or an attached bottle opener. You’ll also find ones explicitly built for specific activities—like overnight hikes into the woods, picnics, beach and water days, and hunting.
Plus, join discussions with other members about gear, guides, and more. To help us better protect your account security, please check the CAPTCHA box below. Join Outside+ to get access to exclusive content, 1,000s of training plans, and more. Wetlands give way to ridgelines at the start of the Blair Creek section. The 26-mile route follows Blair Creek south as it carves down a valley through oak-hickory-pine forest before merging with the emerald waters of the Current River.
Size is perfect for day trips, smaller individuals, and teens. Great for hiking in warm weather, thanks to the breathable construction, mesh straps, and hydration bladder hook up. Includes compression straps on the sides to keep your gear stable. This pack has a lot of extra storage pockets for organization of your gear.