What’s better than being able to crack open a cold drink after a hard paddle? Not much. That’s why one essential accessory that every paddleboarder should consider investing in is a high-quality paddle board cooler.
These coolers are specifically designed to keep your food, beverages, and other essentials cool and accessible while you enjoy your time on the water. In this article, I will share my top 10 recommendations for the best SUP coolers, taking into account factors such as size, insulation, durability, and portability.

Looking for our best paddle board product recommendations? Check the Paddleboard Insiders Buyer Guides

What Is A Paddle Board Cooler?

A paddle board cooler serves as a reliable bag, whether soft or hard case, designed to insulate and preserve the temperature of its contents over an extended period. Its primary purpose is to ensure that your beverages and food items remain cold on scorching hot days or hot on chilly paddling trips.

These coolers come in various styles and offer additional features, providing different options for carrying and organizing your supplies. However, at the core of every SUP cooler is the commitment to maintaining the desired temperature of your belongings for as long as possible.

In essence, a paddle board cooler acts as a trustworthy companion, allowing you to savor refreshing cold drinks during sweltering days or enjoy a comforting hot beverage while embarking on paddling adventures in colder conditions.

Here is an example of one of my favorite paddle board coolers from SUP-NOW that I will talk about later.

And now that you know what a SUP cooler is, and what it does…

How do you choose one?

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Paddle Board Cooler:

Before diving into the list of the best paddle board coolers, it’s important to understand the key factors to consider when making your selection. These factors will help you find a cooler that suits your needs and ensures a convenient and enjoyable paddleboarding experience.

Size and Capacity

One of the first things to consider is the size and capacity of the cooler. Assess how much storage space you require based on the duration of your paddleboarding trips and the number of people you typically paddle with. A cooler that is too small may not hold enough supplies, while a cooler that is too large can be cumbersome to carry on your SUP.

Insulation

Effective insulation is crucial for keeping your food and beverages cold for extended periods. Look for coolers with high-quality insulation materials that can maintain low temperatures even in hot weather conditions. Good insulation will prevent ice from melting quickly and ensure that your items stay chilled throughout your adventure.

Attachment System

Consider how the cooler will attach to your paddle board. Look for coolers with secure attachment systems, such as bungee cords or D-ring tie-downs, that can firmly hold the cooler in place without compromising stability. A reliable attachment system will prevent the cooler from shifting or falling off during your paddleboarding sessions.

Nowadays, it’s rare to come across a stand-up paddle board that doesn’t feature a luggage net that provides a secure and stable spot where you can place your paddleboard cooler.

Most paddle boards actually come equipped with luggage nets both at the front and back, offering even more convenience. It becomes effortless to bring along your paddle board cooler on your paddling excursions.

However, it is important to double-check the dimensions of your chosen paddle board cooler to ensure it fits snugly under the elastic luggage net, particularly if you’ve opted for a hard case paddle board cooler.

All these recommendations below will suit 99% of paddleboards (I got your back).

Durability

Since paddleboarding involves exposure to water, sun, and other elements, it’s important to choose a durable cooler that can withstand such conditions. Opt for coolers made from rugged materials that are resistant to punctures, UV rays, and water splashes. A durable cooler will ensure longevity and provide reliable performance on all your paddleboarding adventures.

Portability

Portability is another crucial aspect to consider, especially if you plan to carry the cooler for longer distances or when traveling. Look for coolers that are lightweight and feature comfortable carrying handles or straps. Easy portability will make it hassle-free to transport the cooler to and from your paddleboarding location.

Okay, so now it’s time for our top picks.

The 11 Best Paddle Board Coolers Of 2024:

Now let’s dive into my top 10 recommendations for the best paddle board coolers. These coolers have been carefully selected based on their features, customer reviews, and overall performance on the water.

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OUR #1 OVERALL COOLER:

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#1: Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze Cooler

When it comes to my personal choice for paddle board coolers during car trips, the Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze stands out as a top contender. What sets it apart from other options on this list is its affordability, generous storage capacity, and convenient extra features.

One notable feature of the Arctic Zone cooler is its interior design, which allows you to place ice at the bottom for enhanced cooling performance. This clever design claims to keep ice frozen for up to an impressive three days! The interior dimensions of the 30 can model measure 12.7″ x 7.6″ x 10.2″, providing ample space for your beverages. Moreover, the interior is easily removable for effortless cleaning.

Carrying the Arctic Zone cooler is a breeze, thanks to its adjustable backsaver shoulder strap with a shoulder pad, ensuring optimal comfort during transport. Additionally, the zipperless lid enables quick and easy access to your food and drinks, saving you time and effort.

In terms of durability and usability, the Arctic Zone cooler excels. It boasts sturdy construction, making it reliable for outdoor adventures. The 30 can version even includes elasticized gear straps and a detachable bottle opener, adding extra convenience to your paddle boarding experience.

Overall, the Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze paddle board cooler offers a winning combination of affordability, functionality, and comfort. It’s an excellent choice for keeping your drinks cool during your paddle boarding outings without breaking the bank.

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OUR #1 BACKPACK COOLER PICK:

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#2: Tourit Cooler Backpack

When it comes to this paddle board cooler – the #1 question you should be asking yourself is “do you mind having something on your back?”

I personally don’t mind it. I find the Tourit Cooler Backpack a breeze to paddle with! It stays safe on your back while you paddle and doesn’t shift around. It’s a high quality fabric that wicks the sweat off your back so it’s not near as bad as a normal backpack when exercising.

And it can store everything you could possibly need for a day out on the water.

It has amazing insulation, it is comfortable on your back and you can use it for multiple things beside paddlings like picnics, hikes and even kayaking. This is a backpack cooler that has cemented its status as one of the highest sellers on Amazon because of its high-grade construction quality and great functionality.

Overall, this is an incredible cooler and it wins our top award for a BACKPACK cooler.

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OUR #1 BUDGET-FRIENDLY COOLER PICK:

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#3: AO Original Soft Cooler

If you’re looking for another excellent option to transport your refreshing beverages on your stand-up paddle board, the AO Original paddleboard cooler is worth considering. This cooler offers impressive ice retention capabilities of up to 24 hours, ensuring your drinks stay cold throughout your paddling adventure.

With its 4 eye-hooks, securing the AO Original cooler to the D-rings of your paddle board becomes effortless. Additionally, the cooler features 2 suction cups that provide extra stability and keep the cooler bag firmly in place.

Measuring 14″ x 7″ x 12″, this cooler offers ample space to accommodate either 24 cans or a combination of 15 cans and ice. The convenience of carrying the cooler is enhanced by its detachable shoulder strap and easy hand grip, allowing for comfortable transportation.

What sets the AO Original cooler apart is its exceptional insulation, providing twice the insulation of other soft-sided coolers. This feature ensures that your drinks remain chilled for an extended period. Furthermore, the leak-proof liner adds to the overall reliability and convenience of the cooler.

In summary, the AO Original paddle board cooler combines superior insulation, secure attachment options, and a generous capacity to make it an ideal choice for keeping your drinks cool during your paddle boarding excursions. Its durable construction and leak-proof design provide peace of mind, making it a valuable companion for your adventures on the water.

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THE BEST OF THE REST:

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#4: Yodo Cooler Bag

The Yodo Cooler bag is a hybrid between a dry bag that you can use to store towels and clothes… Or a cooler that will keep your drinks and consumables ice cold on the hottest days.

It keeps your consumables cold for up to 6 hours because of it’s top-grade PVC material with welding – so not only is it waterproof but it also insulates your goodies.

This is the perfect partner for your multiple day trips such as hiking, kayaking, boating, surfing or other situation where you’d use a regular dry bag. And it comes at an extremely affordable price. Highly recommended for your next SUP adventure.

#5: RockBros Soft Cooler

While the ROCK BROS Soft Paddle Board Cooler boasts exceptional quality and performance, its higher price point makes it a bit less suitable for those seeking the best value for their money. Nevertheless, this cooler remains an outstanding choice for those who prioritize top-notch features.

One of the standout features of this cooler is its three-layer insulation, which enables it to keep your drinks cold for an impressive 48 hours. The leak-proof and waterproof material ensures that your belongings stay dry and protected, even in wet conditions. The airtight zipper further enhances its functionality, preventing any air from seeping through. The reinforced zipper closure guarantees a tight seal, ensuring that the bag stays securely closed.

With a spacious 22L capacity, this paddle board cooler can accommodate nearly 36 cans, providing ample room for your needs. The cooler’s design includes a soft and wide shoulder strap, along with a reinforced top strap and two reinforced side handle straps. These features contribute to comfortable and convenient carrying options.

While the ROCK BROS Soft Paddle Board Cooler may be on the pricier side, its outstanding insulation, leak-proof construction, and generous capacity make it a top-tier choice for those who prioritize premium quality.

#6: SUP NOW Cooler And Deck Bag

Designed specifically for paddlers, the SUP-Now paddle board cooler offers a practical and convenient solution. Equipped with four suction cups, this cooler easily attaches to hardboards, ensuring a secure fit. However, for inflatable paddle boards (iSUPs), the suction cup design may not be suitable. In such cases, the cooler can be secured using the bungee system commonly found on iSUPs.

The SUP-Now cooler features a carry handle for easy transportation. It also incorporates three storage compartments, each serving a specific purpose. One compartment is designed for storing dry goods, keeping them separate and easily accessible. The second compartment is dedicated to cool snacks, providing a convenient spot for quick bites. Lastly, the third compartment is specifically designed for ice and cold food and drinks, ensuring they remain chilled throughout your paddle boarding excursion.

With its practical design and thoughtful storage compartments, the SUP-Now paddle board cooler offers paddlers a versatile and efficient solution for keeping their essentials organized and easily accessible while out on the water.

#7: iRocker SUP Lunch Cooler

If you’re on a tight budget, the iRocker cooler presents a small and affordable option, making it a suitable choice. While paddle board coolers can be quite expensive, this cooler offers a more budget-friendly alternative.

The SUP deck bag has compact dimensions, measuring 13″ x 12″ x 6″. Its smaller size makes it ideal for short paddle board trips, catering to the needs of one or two individuals. With a capacity of approximately six cans, it provides sufficient space for your refreshments.

Attaching the cooler to your paddle board is a breeze, thanks to the bungee cord located at the bottom, along with four clips. As long as your SUP board has D-rings, you can effortlessly secure the iRocker bag within seconds, ensuring it stays in place during your paddling adventure.

While I initially anticipated the cooler to include a removable shoulder strap like the Gili cooler bag, it doesn’t. However, due to its small size and the presence of a convenient carry handle, this absence isn’t a major drawback.

Moreover, the cooler features a side pocket, allowing quick access to small items such as phones or other essentials, adding to its practicality and functionality.

In summary, the iRocker cooler offers an affordable option for those with budget constraints. Its compact size, secure attachment system, and additional side pocket make it a suitable choice for short paddle board trips, providing a convenient and accessible storage solution for your belongings.

#8: Yeti Hopper Flip 12

When you find yourself braving the sweltering heat and in dire need of a refreshing, ice-cold drink, the Yeti Hopper Flip 12 emerges as your ultimate companion and a top choice for a personal cooler.

Despite its compact size, this cooler exhibits an exceptional ice retention ability that rivals a tenacious dog clinging onto its beloved chew toy. It strikes the perfect balance, allowing for easy portability on various outings and even doubling as a reliable lunchbox.

With a capacity to hold 12 cans alongside ice, it ensures you have ample provisions for those moments when you simply want to unwind on the water.

The recent redesign of the cooler introduces even more handles, enhancing its overall convenience and making it easy to attach to a paddelboard.

However, it’s important to note that the only drawback lies in its relatively high price point. Nevertheless, if you’re willing to invest in quality and reliability, the Yeti Hopper Flip 12 proves to be a worthwhile choice.

#9: Thurso Surf Deck Bag

Elevate your on-water experience with the Thurso SUP Deck Bag, the perfect accessory to enhance your paddleboarding adventures. Crafted with a high-grade PVC outer layer and thick insulation foam, this paddle board cooler ensures that your drinks remain refreshingly ice-cold throughout your paddling excursions. Equipped with a waterproof zipper, it effectively safeguards against water infiltration.

Measuring at 16″ × 12″ × 6″, the SUP deck bag provides ample space to accommodate 20 cans or an equivalent amount of food, making it ideal for multi-day trips or extended outings.

The SUP cooler showcases a top-notch three-layer construction. The PVC exterior, coupled with the waterproof zipper, forms a reliable barrier against excessive water exposure while paddling. The inner liner boasts high-grade insulation cloth, while the ultra-thick, high-density foam layer guarantees superior insulation, ensuring that your food and drinks stay cool and refreshing.

Convenience is key with the inclusion of a mesh pocket on the top, providing a safe and easily accessible storage spot for your essentials. Inside the bag, a mesh pocket helps you organize your items effectively.

Attaching the paddle board deck bag is a breeze with the four S-hooks that secure it to the D-rings on the deck. Alternatively, it can be easily fastened under the deck bungees. The deck cooler also features a padded shoulder sling, allowing you to go hands-free when necessary. For added convenience, a center handle on the top offers a simple and convenient way to carry the bag.

Beyond paddleboarding, this versatile bag can also be utilized as a regular lunch box for family gatherings, picnics, and barbecues, providing additional functionality and value.

With its durable construction, ample storage capacity, and practical features, the 20 Can SUP Deck Bag is a must-have accessory for paddleboard enthusiasts seeking a reliable and versatile solution to keep their food and drinks cool during their adventures on the water.

#10: Uboway Cooler Bag

The Uboway paddleboard deck bag with a waterproof zipper, measuring 14.2″ × 12″ × 5.9″ is awesome!

This spacious bag offers a large capacity, accommodating up to 12 cans, making it perfect for storing your beverages during your paddleboarding adventures. It is designed with a top mesh pocket, two side pouches, and a side pocket with velcro, allowing you to keep essential items such as water bottles, sunglasses, and sunscreen within easy reach. With its thoughtful organization, this bag meets all your needs for day-long excursions.

Crafted with a triple-layer construction, the surf SUP cooler bag ensures excellent cooling performance. It features a high-density Oxford fabric exterior, ultra-thick pearl cotton insulation foam, and an aluminum thermal interior. This combination effectively maintains the temperature of your food and drinks, keeping them cooler for longer periods. Furthermore, every seam and handle is sewn securely, guaranteeing durability and long-term usage.

For your convenience, our SUP cooler bag comes equipped with a side handle and top handle, making it easy to carry to your paddleboard. The high-quality waterproof fabric and leak-proof two-way zipper provide effective protection against water splashes while you’re out on the water.

Worried about your deck bag slipping off? Don’t be. The paddleboard cooler bag includes clips that allow you to easily attach it to the D-rings and bungees on your paddleboard, ensuring a secure fit. Whether you’re paddleboarding, kayaking, or surfing, this bag is suitable for various water sports occasions. It adds convenience and peace of mind, allowing you to fully enjoy your paddling time with more fun and confidence.

#11: RTIC Soft Cooler Bag

Experience up to 24 hours of cooling with the RTIC soft insulated cooler. This versatile cooler bag is designed to keep your food and drinks cool wherever you go. Not only that, it’s also a floating cooler, so you can take your drinks and snacks with you on any water adventure, whether it’s a day at the pool or lake.

Made with a heavy-duty nylon shell, this soft cooler is lightweight yet tough enough to handle any terrain. Its compact size, measuring 11 x 9.5 x 11 inches, makes it easy to carry and transport.

The RTIC cooler serves multiple purposes, making it the perfect companion for various occasions. Use it as an ice cooler, drink cooler, travel cooler, beer cooler, lunch cooler, camping cooler, or beach cooler. With 2 inches of closed-cell foam insulation, it ensures superior cooling performance.

One of the standout features of this outdoor cooler is its 100% leak-proof design. The durable zipper prevents spills and leaks, giving you peace of mind while on the go. It’s available in different sizes, including a 12 can cooler bag, 20 can cooler, 30 can cooler, and 40 can cooler, catering to your specific needs.

Whether you’re heading to a picnic, camping trip, beach day, or any outdoor adventure, the RTIC soft insulated cooler is a reliable choice to keep your refreshments cool and enjoyable throughout the day.

Looking for more accessories for your paddle board? The 23 Best Paddleboard Accessories That You Need In 2024

Conclusion: Best Paddleboard Cooler

In conclusion, investing in a high-quality paddle board cooler is a smart decision for any stand-up paddleboard enthusiast. The right cooler will keep your food and beverages cool, ensuring a refreshing experience on the water. When choosing a paddle board cooler, consider factors such as size, insulation, attachment system, durability, and portability. By selecting one of the top 10 coolers I’ve recommended, you can have peace of mind knowing that your essentials will stay cold and accessible during your paddleboarding adventures.

Looking for insider guides to some amazing paddle boarding locations? Check the Paddleboard Insiders Location Guides

FAQs

What is the ideal capacity for a paddle board cooler?

The ideal capacity for a paddle board cooler depends on your specific needs. If you usually go on shorter paddleboarding trips alone, a smaller cooler with a capacity of around 10-20 liters may be sufficient. However, if you often paddle with a group or go on longer excursions, you may want to consider a larger cooler with a capacity of 30 liters or more.

Can I attach a paddle board cooler to any type of paddle board?

Most paddle board coolers are designed to be versatile and can be attached to various types of paddle boards. However, it’s essential to check the compatibility of the cooler’s attachment system with your specific paddle board model. Some coolers may have specific attachment mechanisms that work best with certain board designs, such as inflatable boards or hardboards.

How long can a paddle board cooler keep ice cold?

The duration a paddleboard cooler can keep ice cold varies depending on factors such as the cooler’s insulation quality, ambient temperature, and the amount and type of ice used. High-quality coolers with excellent insulation can keep ice cold for up to 24-48 hours or even longer, especially if you use additional ice packs or blocks alongside regular ice cubes.

Are paddle board coolers waterproof?

Paddle board coolers are typically designed to be water-resistant rather than fully waterproof. While they are built to withstand splashes and light exposure to water, it’s important to keep them secured and avoid submerging them. Some coolers may have additional features like waterproof zippers or liners to provide extra protection against water.

Can I use a paddle board cooler for other outdoor activities?

Yes, paddle board coolers can be versatile and used for various outdoor activities beyond paddleboarding. They can be handy for camping trips, beach outings, picnics, fishing adventures, and more. The insulation and portability of paddle board coolers make them suitable for keeping food and beverages cool in different outdoor settings.