Soft Coolers
Soft coolers and insulated chilly bags for picnics, beach days, day trips and the boat, from backpack coolers to totes and lunch-sized bags. Our range is led by YETI, alongside Coleman.
A soft cooler is lighter and easier to carry than a hard cooler, packs flat when empty and is ideal for drinks and lunch on the move. Backpack coolers keep your hands free on the walk to the beach, while totes suit car trips. For multi-day ice, step up to a hard cooler, and keep drinks icy with insulated bottles.
Order online for fast, tracked delivery across New Zealand, or click and collect from our Grey Lynn store or Westgate collection point at 4B Topere Way.
Frequently asked questions about soft coolers
Soft cooler or hard cooler - which should I choose?
A soft cooler is lighter, easier to carry and packs flat when empty, so it suits picnics, beach days, day trips and carrying lunch on the boat. A hard cooler holds ice for much longer and is tougher, so it suits multi-day camping and fishing trips. Many people own both: a soft cooler for everyday outings and drinks, and a hard cooler for longer adventures.
How long does a soft cooler keep things cold?
A premium soft cooler with thick insulation can keep ice for a day or more, while basic chilly bags usually manage a few hours. Results depend on the outside temperature, how full the cooler is and how often you open it. Pre-chilling the cooler and its contents and using frozen ice packs or ice gives the best performance. Keep it zipped and in the shade between uses.
Are backpack coolers comfortable to carry?
A good backpack cooler spreads the weight across both shoulders, often with padded straps and a back panel, so you can carry drinks and lunch to the beach, a fishing spot or a picnic with your hands free. Choose a size you can carry comfortably when full, as ice and drinks get heavy quickly. A chest strap helps on longer walks, and a waterproof base is handy on wet sand.
Are soft coolers leakproof?
Premium soft coolers use waterproof shells, welded seams and leak-resistant zips or closures, so meltwater stays inside even if the cooler tips over. Basic chilly bags may leak at seams or zips. If you plan to put loose ice in your soft cooler or carry it in the car, choose one described as leakproof, and keep it upright where possible. Ice packs avoid meltwater altogether.
Can I put loose ice in a soft cooler?
In a leakproof soft cooler, yes, and loose ice works well because it fills the gaps around drinks. In a basic chilly bag, ice packs or frozen water bottles are a better choice, as meltwater can leak. Packing ice on top of the contents works best, as cold air sinks. Drain meltwater when it starts to warm, and dry the cooler fully before storing it.
How do I clean a soft cooler?
Empty it, then wipe the inside with warm, soapy water or a little baking soda, paying attention to seams and corners where crumbs and spills collect. Rinse with clean water and leave it to dry completely with the zip open before storing it, which prevents mould and smells. Avoid harsh cleaners and do not put soft coolers in the washing machine or dishwasher, which can damage the insulation and waterproofing.
What size soft cooler do I need?
A small soft cooler that fits around 6 to 12 cans suits lunch and drinks for one or two people. Around 20 to 30 cans covers a family picnic or a day on the boat, and larger soft coolers suit groups and car trips. Check whether the size is measured with ice included, as most brands quote how many cans fit alongside a recommended amount of ice or ice packs.