Best Cooler Bags for Your Food and Beverages in the UK

Review & Comparison, Last Update January 28, 2024
Going on a hiking tour? Planning a picnic? Or just need to keep your lunch fresh? A cooler bag is a way out. It can hold a lot of stuff inside to provide you with chilled drinks or ready-to-eat meals during your getaways. Choose one of the best cooler bags and never drink warm beer or eat soggy sandwiches again! ...Read more ...Read less
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BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
CONSTRUCTION AND MATERIALS
CAPACITY
KEEPS CONTENTS COOL / WARM
CONVENIENCE
DIMENSIONS
WARRANTY
 
PROS

There is a separate pocket on the front which can fit mobile phones, wallets, and other valuables. Also, the bag has two side mesh pockets for travel gear.

CONS

The zipper is stitched not that well. 

OUR VERDICT

The Lifewit 30L is a premium cooler that is completely waterproof and leakproof. It boasts exceptional thermal insulation (food-grade PEVA foil and 8mm EPE foam) and can keep the contents cool for up to 12 hours. After use, you can simply wipe the interior and exterior with a wet cloth.

detailed parameters
CONSTRUCTION AND MATERIALS

1680D Oxford fabric, Food-grade PEVA foil lining, Padded with 8-mm EPE foam

CAPACITY

30 litres

KEEPS CONTENTS COOL / WARM

~ 12 hours

CONVENIENCE

Wide zipped opening, Adjustable and detachable shoulder strap, Padded top handle, 2 side mesh pockets, Deep front pocket, Foldable design

DIMENSIONS

31 x 40.5 x 26.5 cm

WARRANTY

2 years limited

PROS

The capacity of this bag is 30 litres, which allows you to load food and drinks for a large family and set off on a day trip. And a flap-in lid will allow you to easily reach the contents.

CONS

You might need more freezer packs than are supplied in the box.

OUR VERDICT

The Polar Gear Cool Bag is an excellent choice for family picnics,  visiting sports events, or just sunbathing on the beach. The convenient shape of the bag allows you to carry it over your shoulder, in your hands, or in the basket of your bicycle. If necessary, you can load hot food and drinks as well.

detailed parameters
CONSTRUCTION AND MATERIALS

600D polyester, Thick thermal insulation and food-safe PVC free lining

CAPACITY

30 litres

KEEPS CONTENTS COOL / WARM

~ 6-8 hours (without ice packs)

CONVENIENCE

Zipped main compartment, Front zipped pocket, Carry handle, Adjustable shoulder strap, Foldable design, Additional external pockets

DIMENSIONS

28 x 34 x 30 cm

WARRANTY

30 days

PROS

Thanks to the Bungee cord on the lid, you'll be able to carry some small travel essentials on the top of the bag and not worry that they may somehow get lost.

CONS

The strap feels a bit fragile. 

OUR VERDICT

If you're looking for a reliable cooler by a trustworthy manufacturer, you should definitely take a closer look at the Thermos 148885 Radiance. The bag easily holds up to 16 cans of Cola/beer and keeps them cool throughout a whole day (provided that there are some ice blocks inside).

detailed parameters
CONSTRUCTION AND MATERIALS

500D polyester fabric, 100% PVC free heat-sealed PEVA lining, IsoTec™ premium closed PE foam

CAPACITY

30 litres

KEEPS CONTENTS COOL / WARM

5 hours

CONVENIENCE

Adjustable shoulder strap, Front zipped and side mesh pockets, Bungee cord on the lid, Pack-flat tabs for easy storage

DIMENSIONS

33 x 27 x 34 cm

WARRANTY

1 year

PROS

The inner layer of Aluminum foil and 8mm EPE foam keeps the contents cool or warm for a long period of time. The waterproof zipper, in its turn, enhances the sealing.

CONS

There could be more additional pockets. 

OUR VERDICT

Effective and extra-stylish, the Gogogoal 20L Large Insulated Cooler Bag may come in handy for both travellers and new mums who need to keep the breastmilk at the optimal temperature level during their trips. The bag is made from food-grade materials, so it's safe and healthy to store milk, drinks, fruit, and other food.

detailed parameters
CONSTRUCTION AND MATERIALS

600D high-density Oxford cloth, Aluminum foil lining, 8-mm EPE foam mid-layer

CAPACITY

20 litres

KEEPS CONTENTS COOL / WARM

8 hours

CONVENIENCE

Zipped main compartment, Front velcro pocket, Comfortable shoulder carrying strap and handheld strap, Foldable design

DIMENSIONS

24 x 32 x 23 cm

WARRANTY

30 days

PROS

Top rounded compartment and main compartment are equipped with extra-durable YKK zippers to prevent jams and ensure smooth gliding.

CONS

The velcro fastener of the outside pocket is rather flimsy. 

OUR VERDICT

This lunch bag has ample room for a day's worth of meals, snacks and drinks. At the same time, it's pretty compact. There are two separate insulated compartments and multi-pockets on the front and back where you can keep all your stuff neatly. Available in 9 vibrant colours to suit everyone.

detailed parameters
CONSTRUCTION AND MATERIALS

600D waterproof Oxford fabric, Aluminium foil, Padded with 10mm EPE foam

CAPACITY

8 litres

KEEPS CONTENTS COOL / WARM

2-6 hours

CONVENIENCE

Zipped main compartment, Adjustable shoulder strap, Top carry handle, Two outside pockets, Mesh pocket split into three, Rounded top zipped compartment, Foldable design

DIMENSIONS

22 x 24 x 16 cm

WARRANTY

30 days

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Lifewit LF233125

Top-quality Cooler Bag

The Lifewit 30L is a premium cooling bag that is totally worth the price. Constructed from a durable and water-resistant 1680D Oxford fabric, it is capable of keeping the contents cool, clean, and dry. Actually, it’s completely waterproof and leakproof, so you can safely load ice cubes into it and head for the fun beach party. The interior lining is made from food-grade PEVA foil and padded with 8 mm EPE foam, so the cubes won’t melt that quickly even under the blazing sun. The insulation is really top-notch, and you can expect for up to 12 hours of coolness (granted that the ambient temperature is somewhere about 25 degrees C). After use, you can simply wipe both the interior and exterior with a wet cloth. When maintained properly, the bag will look like new even after years of use.

When it comes to size, the cooler is large enough for whole-family picnic essentials. It’s quite tall and can fit even wine bottles well. There is a separate outer pocket on the front which can carry mobile phones, wallets, mosquito repellents, napkins and similar stuff. Also, the bag has two side mesh pockets that are great for storing umbrellas and other travel gear. When not in use, the bag folds down flat for storage. All this makes the Lifewit 30L a worthy investment for your travel comfort. For sure, it will make family outings, camping, hiking, or BBQs much more enjoyable and refreshing.

Review of Lifewit LF233125 Large Insulated Picnic Cooler Bag

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £25.49
Stock In stock
ASIN B071HSRTJN

 

Polar Gear 1115 231 Family

Looks Very Smart and Holds a Lot

The Polar Gear Premium Family Cool Bag is a really spacious picnic cooler. It offers you ample room for all your food and drinks. At 28 x 34 x 30 cm, it has an incredible 30-litre capacity, which makes it suitable for a large family day out on the beach. It's extremely sturdy, so you can also use it for regular weekly shopping trips to carry frozen meat, fish, beverages, etc. For the convenience of use, it's fitted with a strong shoulder strap and handles. The bag is extremely flexible and lightweight. Its bottom lifts out for flat storage or transportation if needed.

This beach cooler bag is very well-built with tough and neat stitching, superior trim and detailing. It's made of durable 600D polyester with a stylish contrast piping detail. The bag has additional external pockets for snacks and other small stuff. The huge insulated food and drink compartment boasts thick thermal insulation, food safe PVC free lining, and heat sealed seams. Thus, it will definitely keep the contents fresh through the whole day. Moreover, the bag comes with Polar Gear ice packs that can keep your food frozen for several hours. The main compartment has 2 internal bottle holders to prevent your beverages from tossing around. Also, the bag features a handy little flap in the top for quick access to drinks or snacks. Functional and stylish, this bag is ideal for family camping, caravaning, and just visiting sports events.

Review of Polar Gear 1115 231 Family Cool Bag
Last updated price £26.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B00R7TI2VQ

 

Thermos 148885

Durable and Roomy

Produced by a reliable manufacturer, the Thermos Radiance Cooler is a very strong performer that is suitable for heavy-duty use. It boasts exceptional quality and extended capacity to fit supplies for a company of 3-4 people. To begin with, it’s really well-built. Made from strong polyester, it will last you for a long time showing no signs of wear even after several months of use. Besides, the bag is very sturdy, in large part thanks to high-quality zips and seams.

As for the interior, it’s made of PEVA lining that is leak-proof and heat-sealed for superior insulation. Further improving the insulation of the bag is a thick layer of IsoTec premium closed cell PE foam that will keep the contents cool for up to 5 hours, even if you leave the bag in a hot car or under the boiling sun. And if you need to keep your sandwiches fresh and beverages cool all day long, just add to it a bit more ice blocks.

Speaking of the internal dimensions, they make 33 x 24.5 x 24.5 cm, and though the actual capacity may be a bit less in reality than stated by the manufacturer, the bag holds up to 16 cans of Cola/beer with no problem. When full, it’s quite easy to carry thanks to a strong shoulder strap, and it is quite easy to reach for the cans due to a nice flap at the top.

So, if you need a stoutly-built bag that will be able to accommodate quite a lot of stuff without breaking a sweat, the Thermos Radiance Cooling bag may be just right up your alley. It’s extra strong and effective at keeping food and drinks cool for quite a long time.

Review of Thermos 148885 Radiance Cooler Bag

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B00BPA2C00

 

Gogogoal 20L Large

Ultra Cute

It doesn't matter whether you're a new mum in need to store breastmilk or a picnic lover, the Gogogoal Large Insulated Bag will appeal to you. It is an ultra-cute cooler that comes in a trendy jacquard fabric in grey completed with soft pink accents, making it look more like a stylish accessory rather than an insulated package. Also, it is fitted with a convenient handle and an adjustable shoulder strap so you can choose how to carry it: as a handbag, over your shoulders, or as a sling.

Yet, if you're not of those who judge by the cover, just consider the results of testing conducted by the manufacturer. The folks behind Gogogoal have poured 1-litre solid ice into this bag under the 30 °C ambient air temperature and closed it with a waterproof zipper. Only after 8 hours, the ice inside the bag began to melt. So, not only is this bag super attractive, but it also offers excellent insulation and can keep things cool even during a long period of sitting in the hot sun.

Made from high-quality food-grade materials, it's also absolutely safe for whatever you load inside, be it a lunch, wine, or breastmilk. With 20-litre total capacity, it's fairly compact but still big enough to fit a fair amount in it. Plus, it has a nice front pocket for extra storage.

Attractive and well-made, it's an excellent cooler bag suitable for long journeys such as picnics, camping, BBQs, and the like. It's a great size for a family of four and absolutely safe and healthy to store foodstuff.

Review of Gogogoal 20L Large Insulated Cooler Bag
Last updated price £12.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B07BXHKKP9

 

PuTwo 601420326246

Keeps Your Meals and Drinks Neatly Organised

The PuTwo Lunch Bag large is ideal for those looking for a compact bag that can fit all their food and drinks for one day's worth travelling. This cooler is really great for its size. While most lunch bags can cope with a sandwich and a drink only, this one can fit your lunch, salad, drink, and even dessert. It has a main zipped compartment that is roomy to accomodate not only your meals but also some ice packs and a small rounded compartment on the top of the bag where you can keep your drink. Both compartments are insulated, which is a big advantage, plus you've got an option to expand the main area by unzipping the panel that separates the large compartment from the top.

Speaking of which, the manufacturer equipped the bag with extremely sturdy and easy to open/close YKK Zips  On the outside, there are two small pockets for storking mini snacks, cutlery sets, and personal stuff. One of them has a flap and velcro closure, while the other one serves as a slip pocket. At the back of the bag, there is a mesh pocket split into three, making it perfect for keeping medication tubs, small packets of condiments, napkins, etc. 

All in all, if you're looking for a bag to neatly organize your meals, drinks, and snacks, this one is your best bet. Moreover, it's available in a variety of eye-catching designs, making it a sound choice for the pickiest crowd. 

Review of PuTwo 601420326246 Lunch Bag Large Capacity for Insulated Cooler Bag
Last updated price £13.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B01I0YT8KU

 

Infographics

Comparison of Cooler Bags for Your Food and Beverages

What Is a Cooler Bag?

If you're a hiker, a camper, or a tailgating enthusiast, you definitely need a high-quality cooler bag. There are different types of coolers on the market, however, we have reviewed only soft-sided bags for this comparison chart. Soft coolers are all about mobility! They are usually quite lightweight and designed with detachable shoulder straps. Soft bags can be easily carried in your arms or over your shoulder, tucked under a car seat or secured at the back of a canoe. When not in use, soft cooler bags can be usually folded and put away for neat storage. They are made of durable materials with thick insulating linings. Yet, the main questions are how long they can keep your stuff cool and how much they can hold. Surprisingly, the premium soft-sided bags can keep as many as 40 cans cool for up to 5 days. More affordable models have thinner insulation and are quite OK for keeping your lunch boxes and snacks fresh all day long. By the way, thanks to a good insulation level, these bags can keep your food warm as well. We have rounded up various insulated cooler bags for any need and budget. So, it's up to you to decide which one will fit your purpose (and your wallet) best.

Another accessory that might come in handy during your weekend trips is a picnic blanket. It will add even more comfort to your outings.

Sources:

1. Braun Davidson 11 Stupid-Easy Cooler Hacks For A Better Beach Trip, Delish.

2. Eric Pickhartz 8 Tips For The Most Effective Cooler Use, Wide Open Spaces. May 7, 2014.

3. Sarah Rae Smith Still Using Bagged Ice in Your Cooler? There's a Better Way! Kitchn. July 21, 2016.

4. Tips on Packing a Cooler – Learn How to Pack a Cooler, What’s Cooking America.

5. Kristin Wong Pre-Chill Your Cooler to Keep Drinks Cool Longer, Lifehacker. July 6, 2015.

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Publish Date: 2018-04-05 07:29:41