RTIC Backpack 30 Review

The large RTIC Backpack 30 is capable of holding dozens of cans, wine bottles, ice, and other variously shaped items. The durable pack is waterproof and floats, so it's an excellent option to tug along on your next float trip. While it's not the easiest to store in tight places, its insulation performance is one of the best.

Performance Comparison

Insulation

Worth 35% of the overall score, insulation is the most important metric in our testing. After all, a cooler that doesn't keep its contents cold somewhat defeats the purpose. To test insulation performance, we set the coolers in a temperature-controlled room for 10 days. Each cooler was filled with ice and a small device measuring ambient temperature. We noted when the internal temperature of each cooler reached 40 and 50°F. Those that lasted longer below these temperatures did better. The RTIC Backpack was our best-performing backpack-style cooler in the lineup.

We used the FDA-recommended food-safe temperature of 40°F for our initial threshold. The RTIC lasted a whopping 60 hours below this temperature. Additionally, we tested the beer-ideal drinking temperature of 50°F. This backpack lasted an additional seven hours before it reached its temperature, totaling a time of 67 hours. Part of the cooling powers this model has comes from its heavy-duty coated fabric and waterproof zipper.

Convenience

Next, we inspected how easy it was to get into each bag. We specifically looked at the access points, including how easy zippers were to use. We also cleaned each model, wiping down the insides with a wet rag. Part of this cleaning inspection was allowing it to dry. Finally, we assessed how easy it was to store each soft cooler. This metric was worth an overall 20% of the final score.

Most notably, the RTIC Backpack 30 was very easy to clean the bag itself as a smooth material that can easily be wiped down. RTIC provides specific instructions on how to care for the bag in case stains and odor appear, which is handy and easy to carry out. The bag's lid is opened by a single zipper along the top. The zipper requires some effort to unzip, and the lid does not stay open on its own. This can be slightly annoying when loading items into the bag, as the lid will continually close on your hand. The cooler itself is rigid and does not collapse or fold. This makes loading a bit easier, but also means that it does not store in tight places well. We also found that this bag is watertight and can float on water.

Portability

The RTIC was among the most portable options in our lineup. Attest to this we carried it to various destinations with different distances. We stuck close to the parking lot for some and others. We took a bit of a hike to find our favorite picnic spot. Throughout this, we inspected the handles, straps, and comfort of each pack.

The RTIC Backpack has comfortable shoulder straps that are cushioned and adjustable. It also includes a hip strap that helps disperse the weight of the pack evenly. Aside from the backpack straps, it also includes two longer straps that allow the cooler to be carried like a grocery bag. These two straps can be connected and feel comfortable to hold for extended periods. The items within the bag felt stable throughout our walk test, never sloshing around, regardless of how full it was packed. It also includes two additional side handles. With these extra handles, it was easy to lift the bag overhead and into our vehicles. With how well it performs in its portability, this is an excellent option to take on various journeys of different lengths. A simple picnic right by the car or a longer track into a remote location are both within this backpack's capability.

Packability

Worth 15% of the overall score, our packability test measures the amount of items that can be filled within the bag and any exterior storage options. We also look to see how well the cooler can accommodate odd-shaped items like fruits or storage containers.

The RTIC backpack measures in at roughly 27 L. Within this, we were able to fit 42 cans along with ice. Additionally, we had no trouble fitting in an upright wine bottle and other variously shaped items. The bag is rather deep, so reaching for the final items at the bottom can be slightly challenging, especially for those with shorter arms. The exterior of the bag has one additional storage feature. The bungee cord at the front of the backpack is large enough to hold a small blanket or jacket.

Durability

For the final 10% of the overall score, we measured the overall durability of the soft cooler. Throughout our entire tests, taking the cooler to various destinations, we noted any wear and tear that occurred along the way. We also performed an in-depth soak test where we filled large buckets with water and left the cooler to soak for hours. After that, we inspected the inside and outside for dampness and waterproofing.

Through Our test, we had no durability troubles. When setting the cooler on rough surfaces like rocks, it didn't pick up any scuffs or scrapes. Its thick material is resistant to wear and tear and appears to be made to last. After our soap test, the interior was completely dry. This proves that the zipper is watertight. The exterior had some minor drops of water that were easily wiped off. However, it was not damp whatsoever.

Should You Buy the RTIC Backpack 30?

The RTIC Backpack 30 is an excellent option for those in the market for a waterproof backpack-style soft cooler. It's comfortable enough to wear on long journeys, like treks into remote picnicking spots. It also does great for quick trips, like heading to your friend's barbeque. It floats in water, has a large internal capacity, and performs well in its insulation test. Overall, there's lots to love about this cooler. However, it's on the larger side and doesn't fold up, making it a bit challenging to store in tight places.

What Other Soft Cooler Should You Consider?

If a backpack style sounds great, but you're not looking to fork over a whole lot, the Maelstrom Backpack 35 is another great option. Though it's about average in its cooling performance, it includes many storage options. With this pack, you can store dinnerware, light layers, and even discreetly hide your keys and wallet in its back panel pocket. The REI Co-op Cool Trail Split Pack is another decent backpack-style soft cooler. It has two main compartments, one being the cooler, and the other being a large compartment for your daily essentials. This bag is specifically great for days on the trail where you want to bring along a perishable lunch.