Collection: Cooler Bags and Soft Sided Coolers

Frequently Asked Questions

• why is the zipper on my Backcountry Class™ soft cooler so tough to operate?

  Watertight zippers require lubricant for smooth operation. Every Backcountry Class™ cooler with a watertight zipper comes with a tube of zipper lubricant and instructions for application. Lubricating the zipper well before the first use will keep your Backcountry Class™ zipper gliding as it should for years. More information can be found here.
  
  

• how do i store my Backcountry Class™ soft cooler when not in use?

  Out of direct sunlight, in a cool dry area, unzipped for ventilation.
  
  

• what is the best way to clean my soft cooler?

  Simply rinse with soap and water, and dry the inside with a cloth or paper towel. For tougher stains or marks, use a non-abrasive rag. Leave the lid open and flip the cooler upside down to ensure it dries completely, keeping it ready for your next adventure.
  
  

• How effective are soft coolers?

  Cordova soft coolers punch above their weight. They’re lightweight, easy to carry, and keep your food and drinks ice-cold all day. Whether it’s our Lunchpack for a single meal, the Daypack for a couple of people, or the Backpack for all-day adventures, these coolers are built for real use. So, they are trail-ready, park-ready, and beach-ready.

• Are you supposed to put ice in a soft cooler?

  You can, but we recommend using Cordova Packice instead of loose ice. Packice keeps your items colder longer, won’t slosh around, and keeps your snacks and drinks mess-free. It’s a cleaner, more efficient way to get all day cold.

• What size soft cooler should I get?

  It depends on your adventure:

  • Lunchpack: Ideal for single meals, workdays, or school lunches.
  • Daypack: Perfect for 1–2 people heading out for a few hours at the park, beach, or lake.
  • Backpack: Great for all-day outings or hands-free hikes with more items to keep cold.

• Can soft coolers be used for food?

  Absolutely. Cordova soft coolers are perfect for sandwiches, snacks, drinks, and picnic spreads. Our insulated walls and leak-proof liners keep everything cold and clean.

• How long does a soft cooler stay cold?

  With Packice, Cordova soft coolers can keep your items cold all day. Pre-chill your cooler, freeze items when possible, and pack densely to maximize performance.

• Do soft coolers work as well as hard coolers?

  Instead of comparing, think about use cases. Cordova hard coolers are built for multi-day trips, rugged conditions, and maximum ice retention. Soft coolers are the grab-and-go option. So, they are lightweight, easy to carry, and perfect for day trips, quick hikes, or keeping lunch cold at work. Many customers keep both for any type of outing.