They will allow you to keep food frozen or chilled during hot and warm seasons for a period of 5 to 24 hours.
After analyzing the statistics on purchases of cooler bags for 2020 from various manufacturers, we selected high-quality products for customers.
When selecting models, reviews from experts and ordinary people were taken into account, as well as official test results (Rostest).
The rating of the 10 best cooler bags in terms of price/quality ratio was compiled based on a set of indicators that ensure functionality, convenience, safety and reliability of use of the product in combination with an adequate price.
Rating of the TOP 10 best cooler bags of 2021
| Place | Name | Price |
| TOP 7 best cooler bags in terms of price/quality ratio | ||
| 1 | Ezetil Extreme | Find out the price |
| 2 | Igloo Collapse&cool | Find out the price |
| 3 | Airline AO-CB | Find out the price |
| 4 | Green Glade isothermal P2025 | Find out the price |
| 5 | Green Glade isothermal T1061 | Find out the price |
| 6 | Arctic 3100 | Find out the price |
| 7 | Trunki GB01 | Find out the price |
| TOP 3 best cooler bags with cigarette lighter operation | ||
| 1 | DOMETIC TF 14 | Find out the price |
| 2 | Mobicool MB32 DC | Find out the price |
| 3 | AVS CB-32A | Find out the price |
What types of bags are there and which one is better?
The correct selection of a cooler bag, including travel bags, should be made based on the following technical criteria:
- Capacity . To carry a cooler bag yourself, you should choose a model whose volume does not exceed 30 liters. Since larger units will be difficult to lift. But if the bag will be transported in a car, then you can choose more spacious models.
- Cold accumulators . Some thermal bags will require them, and some will. Usually the need for them is indicated by the manufacturer. It is considered optimal to have a battery with 50 g of coolant per 1 liter of food placed in an insulated bag.
- Material for making the outer part . It is recommended to choose a cooler bag made of durable, water-repellent fabric (synthetics, polyester, polyvinyl chloride, nylon, etc.). Since these types of fabrics are easy to clean and dry quickly after water gets on them. You can also pay attention to bags made of impact-resistant plastic. This material will ensure a long service life for the bag.
- Inner layer . It should be of the highest quality possible. Since the layer determines how long the products will remain chilled or frozen. The ideal material is polyvinyl chloride coated with a reflective layer. If the thermal bag is made of it, then the food in it will remain fresh for 12 hours. If cold accumulators are additionally used, then the freshness of the food can be preserved for a day.
- Wall thickness . Thin walls indicate an insufficient amount of thermal insulation layer. That is, the bag will not be able to provide long-term cooling. The optimal wall thickness should be at least 3–5 cm.
- Handles, shoulder straps, casters . The handles should be strengthened and wide, and also not rub the skin of the hands. Shoulder straps should be adjustable in length and have a soft backing. Rollers are usually installed on bags with a volume of more than 30 liters, since heavy bags are more convenient to roll rather than carry.
TOP 3 best cooler bags with cigarette lighter operation
DOMETIC TF 14
The body of the Dometic BordBar TF 14 car portable cooler bag is made in a cream shade .
The stylish, minimalist design features black piping and a large front pocket with a zipper for storing small items. It additionally has a small pocket-envelope for keys or small change.
Reinforced insulation of the bag allows you to cool food and dishes 25°C below ambient temperature . The portable refrigerator bag is powered through the cigarette lighter socket.
Compact dimensions allow the product to be placed in the front passenger seat or in the rear seats.
However, its capacity is sufficient to store several containers of food or a couple of two-liter water bottles.
Specifications:
- volume – 14 l;
- weight – 4 kg;
- dimensions – 40⨯39.5⨯25 cm;
- cooling method – thermoelectric;
- supply voltage – 12 V;
- heating function – yes.
pros
stylish design;
works quietly;
Cools food perfectly.
Minuses
Not very convenient connection to 12 V.
Mobicool MB32 DC
The Mobicool MB32 DC cooler bag is made of jacquard and polyester fabrics that are UV resistant .
The bag is compact, so it will not take up much space, and its comfortable shape, handles and adjustable strap will allow you to carry it on your shoulder.
For user convenience, a special valve is provided for quick access to the contents of the refrigerator..
Convenient and simple recharging from a car cigarette lighter is carried out using the connecting cable supplied in the kit.
If you have an adapter for car appliances, the product can be connected to a 220 Volt network.
Double ventilation allows you to quickly reach the stated cooling temperature . And enhanced insulation will help cool food and dishes 15°C below ambient temperature.
Reliable thermal insulation will maintain the temperature inside the device for up to several hours after switching off and preserve the freshness of food.
Specifications:
- volume – 32 l;
- weight – 4 kg;
- dimensions – 39⨯20⨯27 cm;
- cooling method – thermoelectric;
- supply voltage – 12 V;
- heating function - no.
pros
stylish design;
roomy;
Cools food perfectly.
Minuses
The cables connected to the cigarette lighter do not last long.
AVS CB-32A
The AVS CB-32A cooler bag is made in red colors with black edging .
The outer part of the bag is made of wear-resistant fabric. Under the fabric there is a thermal insulation pad and four-millimeter polyurethane foam.
The inner surface is covered with waterproof antibacterial PEVA film.
You can make the bag smaller using special fastenings on the sides. Special legs ensure the stability of the auto-refrigerator, and wheels and a telescopic retractable handle make it possible to move the bag along the ground.
The top of the product has a soft carrying handle and an adjustable shoulder strap . An additional compartment and several pockets will allow you to store small items (keys, money, cutlery, glasses, etc.).
The manufacturer recommends placing pre-chilled food and drinks in the cooler bag . Since compliance with this rule will allow you to maintain the required temperature of the food for a longer period of time.
If you need to not only maintain the temperature, but also cool the food, then it is additionally recommended to use cold generators.
Specifications:
- volume – 32 l;
- weight – 3.5 kg;
- dimensions – 37⨯23⨯51 cm;
- cooling method – thermoelectric;
- supply voltage – 12 V;
- heating function - no.
pros
quality materials;
roomy;
The desired temperature is maintained for a long time.
Minuses
The retractable handle may stick a little.
The best thermal bags
ARCTICA 2000-20
Rating: 4.9
First place in the category is a Russian-made isothermal bag made of high-quality and impact-resistant plastic. The body is smooth, and the lid has a built-in compartment for carrying your phone, keys or other small items. The cooler bag is equipped with a handle and a long shoulder strap for carrying. The volume is 20 liters, which allows you to store a fairly large amount of food and drinks. The temperature regime is maintained due to the thermal insulation layer. The manufacturer recommends using a cooler bag together with cold accumulators to increase the cold retention time. When determining the number of batteries, you should proceed from the calculation of 10 percent of the volume of the thermal bag.
Advantages
- maintaining low temperature – up to 48 hours;
- light weight – 2.2 kg;
- compact dimensions – 52 × 26 × 28 cm;
- convenient transportation;
- mobility;
- budget price – 2500 rub.
Flaws
- batteries are purchased separately.
World Rider WR6516
Rating: 4.8
The second line goes to the cooler bag, which is distinguished by its convenience and practicality. The product provides a temperature difference with the environment of 10-12 degrees. This is enough to maintain the freshness of drinks and food, both fresh and prepared, for a long time. The thermal bag has a capacity of 22 liters, so you can store enough food for your trip. The outer layer is made of durable synthetic fabric that is wear-resistant. The cooling system is removable. The brushless motor guarantees high-quality performance. The cooler bag has a special compartment for drinks and several pockets.
Advantages
- maintaining low temperature – up to 24 hours;
- light weight – 2.1 kg;
- stylish design;
- two long handles for easy transportation;
- moisture-resistant outer fabric;
- acceptable cost - 4150 rub.
Flaws
- no soft shoulder pads.
Thermos Collapsible Party Chest 48
Rating: 4.8
The third position is occupied by an isothermal bag with an increased volume of 40 liters. The model will serve as an excellent alternative to bulky and heavy thermal containers. The cooler bag is equipped with two side handles and one top handle located on the lid. The outer layer is made of durable synthetic fabric. Geometric seams prevent liquid leakage. The lid and front walls are made of impact-resistant high-quality plastic. The thermal bag folds easily and quickly, locking securely, which simplifies the storage process. The bottom and walls are removable, which also allows the product to be completely folded. When folded, the design takes up 75 percent less space, which distinguishes the cooler bag from any plastic thermal box.
Advantages
- maintaining low temperature – up to 24 hours;
- light weight – 3.5 kg;
- compact dimensions – 44 × 29 × 34 cm;
- double layer of IsoTec for long-term maintenance of the desired temperature;
- acceptable cost - 3500 rub.
Flaws
- no shoulder strap or pockets;
- There is no quick access valve.
Ezetil Keep Cool Extreme 6
Rating: 4.7
Fourth place goes to a practical mobile thermal bag. The outer layer is made of easy-to-clean durable nylon fabric, and the inner layer is made using seamless technology, which guarantees no leakage of liquids. The volume of the cooler bag is only 6 liters, but this is quite enough for a picnic trip, as it allows you to fit everything you need for a snack. The design is equipped with a long, adjustable, padded shoulder strap. After folding, the insulated bag can be stored in any, even small, space, since the product takes up little space.
Advantages
- maintaining low temperature – up to 24 hours;
- light weight – 0.29 kg;
- compact dimensions – 21 × 18 × 25 cm;
- mobility;
- budget cost - 1700 rub.
Flaws
- batteries are purchased separately;
- no pockets.
ARCTICA 3000-10
Rating: 4.6
In fifth position is another cooler bag from the Russian manufacturer, ARCTICA. The model is compact both when unfolded and folded. The volume is 10 l. The cooler bag is equipped with double handles and a long shoulder strap with a special lining that softens the load. External pockets are also provided. The outer layer of the thermal bag is made of durable, moisture- and UV-resistant polyester with nylon inserts. The inner layer is made of environmentally friendly modern PEVA material, which allows you to maintain a low temperature for 18 hours without batteries. When folded, the cooler bag is secured with Velcro, transforming into a small envelope.
Advantages
- maintaining low temperature – up to 24 hours;
- light weight – 0.55 kg;
- compact dimensions – 31 × 17 × 24.5 cm;
- ease of transportation and storage;
- mobility;
- budget cost – 1100 rub.
Flaws
- not found.
Ezetil Keep Cool Camping 30
Rating: 4.6
The sixth place is occupied by a compact but roomy model of an insulating bag. The volume is 30 liters, which allows you to take a large amount of food and drinks on the road. An insulating layer of 10 mm ensures long-term preservation of the desired temperature indicators. Without batteries, the thermal bag maintains a low temperature for 10 hours. The design provides for both full opening of the lid and quick access through a special valve, which reduces cold loss. The outer layer is made of durable synthetic fabric, which is easy to care for, and the inner layer is made of PEVA with light reflection. The tightness ensures that there is no risk of accidental leakage of liquid. The thermal bag is equipped with double handles and a long shoulder strap with soft lining. As users note in reviews, the cooler bag is practical and reliable.
Advantages
- maintaining low temperature – up to 14 hours;
- the presence of an external pocket for things;
- removable bottom;
- ease of transportation;
- mobility;
- budget cost - 2 thousand rubles.
Flaws
- batteries are purchased separately.
MOBICOOL Sail 17
Rating: 4.5
The seventh is a model made in the form of a backpack. This design is more convenient to carry, which is why the thermal bag is very popular among people who prefer to travel on foot. The volume is quite large and is 17 liters. The outer layer of the product is made of durable polyester jacquard weave, and the inner layer is made of food-grade PEVA material. Foamed polyethylene is used as an insulating layer. The model has many external pockets that are suitable for storing various small items: wallet, phone, keys, documents and more. A top carry handle and two adjustable, padded shoulder straps make the cooler bag easy to transport.
Advantages
- maintaining low temperature – up to 12 hours;
- large selection of colors;
- light weight – 0.71 kg;
- compact dimensions – 36 × 16 × 46 cm;
- budget cost - 2 thousand rubles.
Flaws
- not found.
Onlitop Premium P-001
Rating: 4.5
In eighth position is a cooler bag, which differs from similar models in the presence of metal folding legs that allow you to install the product on any surface for stability. The volume is 20 liters, which allows you to fit a variety of foods and drinks into the product. The outer layer is made of durable and moisture-resistant polyester. The walls and lid have plastic inserts with a thermal insulation layer. On top, between the folding legs, there is a fabric membrane that serves as a convenient place to place dishes or other things, and you can also sit on it like a chair.
Advantages
- maintaining low temperature – up to 12 hours;
- light weight – 1.7 kg;
- compact dimensions – 30 × 29 × 38 cm;
- stylish design;
- shoulder strap for carrying;
- budget cost - 1800 rub.
Flaws
- batteries are purchased separately.
Types of cooler bags
In 2021, the range of cooler bags on the market has expanded significantly. Since many people began to spend more time outside the home, traveling, at work, and visiting gyms.
In general, the pace of life has accelerated and a thermal bag will be very useful for storing and carrying food and ready-made meals, without wasting time looking for a place to eat.
There are quite a few types of cooler bags, but they are classified mainly according to functionality.:
- Thermal bag . It is designed on the principle of a regular thermos, which keeps food cold. For this purpose, an insulating layer of polyurethane or foil-isolon is provided inside it. This type of cooler bag is capable of maintaining the same temperature of food for 2-3 hours.
- Bag with cold batteries . Such products can not only maintain temperature, but also directly cool the contents of the bag. Typically, batteries are filled with a special saline solution or gel, frozen, and when thawed, they release cold to the food inside the cooler bag. A thermal bag in combination with cold accumulators can increase the storage time of food to 10–12 hours.
- Portable car refrigerator . These devices are capable of cooling food for a very long time (up to several days). They just need to be connected to the car cigarette lighter. Car refrigerators are characterized by large volume and high performance.
Criterias of choice
When purchasing a cooler bag, you need to consider your needs. Analyze how and why you will use it and pay attention to the most important characteristics.
Weight and volume
If the thermal bag will be carried in your hands or on your shoulder, you should choose a model with a volume of no more than 30 liters and weighing up to 1.5 kg. For romantic walks for couples and family picnics for three, models with a volume of up to 3 liters and a weight of 500-600 grams are suitable. For a party with a lot of people, it is better to take several medium containers of food (up to 40 liters) than one, which is difficult to transport to the place.
Car travelers can afford isothermal bags and car refrigerators of any volume and weight - their size is limited only by the availability of space in the trunk.
Material and device
As mentioned above, the design of modern thermal bags includes outer and inner layers separated by thermal insulation material. The outer layer is made of dense, waterproof synthetic fabric or food-safe plastic. The outer layer material should absorb heat, be easy to clean or wash, and dry quickly. Inside there is synthetic fabric or polyethylene with a foil surface for better retention of heat or cold. If the inner layer is made of ordinary polyethylene, the time for maintaining the desired temperature inside the container is reduced to 2-3 hours.
In order for the cold inside the thermal container to remain for more than 2 hours, the thickness of the heat-insulating layer between the walls must be at least 0.8 cm. Thermal insulation 2-2.5 cm thick will maintain the desired temperature regime for 10-12 hours. Ideally, the walls should have a thickness of 3 to 5 cm.
Isothermal cooler bag HS-1657 (10L) Helios 1,260 for 1 pc. Isothermal cooler bag HS-1394 Helios 2,885 for 1 pc. Isothermal cooler bag HS-1657 (35L) Helios 1,945 for 1 pc. Isothermal bag (10702030/010414/0023678/1) Camping World 1,256 per 1 piece. Isothermal bag P2015 Green Glade 760 for 1 pc. Isothermal bag P1632 Green Glade 1,290 for 1 piece.
Availability and type of cooling devices
The time for maintaining the required temperature in a thermal bag is extended by cold accumulators - flat plastic containers or thick plastic bags with special filling inside. Before use, batteries are frozen in the freezer for 5-7 hours and then placed in special compartments of cooler bags. Standard cooling elements have a volume of 250-800 ml. Depending on the size of the thermal bag, it can hold from 1 to 5 batteries.
Cooling elements are divided into types depending on their internal filling. Today the most common types are:
- Water-salt
. Sealed plastic containers filled with a water-salt composition. Capable of maintaining temperatures from -20 to +8 degrees for up to 24 hours. - Silicone
. Flat plastic bags with silicone filling. Maintains temperature from 0 to +2 degrees. Effective for up to 7 days. Suitable if you need to keep food cool for a long time. - Gel
. Packages with a safe gel filler based on carboxymethylcellulose. They operate in a wide temperature range, i.e. can not only cool, but also heat the space. Effective for 6-16 hours.
Gel cold batteries are the most popular today due to their versatility, safety and ability to be used in different situations.
Cold accumulator 330 ml TPX-9003 PINNACLE PINNACLE 90 for 1 pc. Cold accumulator Camping World Iceblock 400cc (weight 400 g) N3058 (138218) Camping World 130 for 1 pc. Cold accumulator (gel) TE500 Green Glade 190 for 1 pc. Iceblock cold accumulator (cold cell) 200 g Camping World 110 for 1 pc. Ice substitute M20 600g Freez Pack CAMPINGAZ 380 for 1 pc. Cold accumulator 350 ml (TE350) 72 per 1 piece. Cold accumulator 2x200 g Green Glade 305 for 1 pc. Cold accumulator (cold cell) 400 ml A0287 BTrace 130 for 1 pc. Cold accumulator (cold element) 200 ml A0286 BTrace 100 for 1 pc. Cold accumulator (cold cell) 2x200CC (3012-B) 150 per 1 piece. Cold accumulator (gel) TE150 Green Glade 100 for 1 pc.
Availability of useful add-ons
For ease of use, insulated bags have a number of additional useful parts. The most significant of them are handles and locks.
Paired handles
on the sides are present in most small and medium-sized thermal bags for carrying them over short distances.
If you purchase a large or medium model and plan to wear it for long distances, make sure that the package includes shoulder straps
. Soft lining on the belts will be an additional advantage during operation. Large cooler bags and insulated containers, ideally, should be equipped with special wheels and a retractable handle, like a suitcase.
Locks
prevent accidental opening of the thermal bag, protect its contents from theft, prevent curious pets from getting inside and prevent food from falling out if accidentally dropped.
Zippers
have proven themselves better than others , but in some cases it is more convenient to use
Velcro fasteners
.
Some portable food cooling devices come with disposable utensils
and accessories for its installation.
Additional external and internal pockets
are widespread .
How long does the cold last?
The answer to this question is purely individual for the specific model of cooler bag.
The period of maintaining a stable temperature inside the bag depends on a number of factors:
- Thickness of the insulating layer . It should be at least 7 mm, since a smaller thickness will not keep the cold inside the bag longer than 1-1.5 hours.
- Exterior finishing materials . A denser material can delay the loss of cold air.
- The presence of a durable zipper and protective valve . These design elements will allow you to maintain the temperature of the products 15° lower than the environment for 5–6 hours.
- Presence or absence of cold storage batteries . When using a battery, the shelf life of food and dishes in the cooler bag increases by 6–12 hours. And with proper placement of products and a sufficient number of cold accumulators, the temperature retention time can increase to 24 hours.
- Temperature inside the bag before adding food . The lower it is, the longer the food will remain chilled. It is recommended to place the bag in the refrigerator or place something cold in it and only then add food.
- Frequency of bag opening . The more often it opens, the faster the temperature will rise. Especially if the temperature outside is high.
FAQ
The cooler bag has a limited validity period. Is this true? True. The period depends on the type of bag: for some it is quite impressive. The most effective device of this kind is a thermal refrigerator, which runs on an external battery or from a car cigarette lighter. It will work until the battery runs out.
Can food in a cooler bag last 1 day? Thermal containers with cold accumulators can maintain low temperatures for up to 24 hours. Simple and cheap thermal bags will keep food edible for only 3-4 hours.
How many hours does a thermal bag keep cold? The operating time is influenced by several factors:
- thickness and materials of the bag walls;
- internal volume;
- presence of cold accumulators.
The simplest and smallest models can withstand 2-3 hours at moderate external temperatures. But you can find a bag that will keep a bottle of water cold all day.
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