Cooler backpack

[171farm]

Going on a western park trip this coming June. Looking for a good option for a cooler backpack.

I know I can use bags and such within a regular backpack but that's not what I'm looking for. It doesn't have to be welded to prevent leaking. Just looking for an over all well constructed bag for shorter 2 to 4 mile hikes. I'd like something that's more of a backpack that has a cooler, not a cooler that's a backpack if that makes sense. Would need room for a few drinks, 3 or 4 sandwiches and some snacks for my wife son and I

 

[171farm]

Any suggestions

 

[crashlanding]

Are you going to put those freezer packs in it?

 

[westbranch]

I remember looking at some at REI or some other big store and between cost and design (not comfortable) I didn't want to spend money on one. So we just use a day pack or backpacking pack.

 

[cohunt]

I line a pocket in my regular backpack with that 1/2-3/4" thick sleeping pad foam ( I cut it to size)--- then I use blue ice packs to keep cool-- works well

 

[171farm]

Are you going to put those freezer packs in it?

Would be my plan as long as I can refreeze them every night where we are staying. Most hotels offer a fridge but some of the motels around the parks might not...ideally id rather use ice packs but might have to use cubes some of the time

 

[171farm]

I remember looking at some at REI or some other big store and between cost and design (not comfortable) I didn't want to spend money on one. So we just use a day pack or backpacking pack.

Thats my main fear. I havent went to the stores yet to try anything but looking online, a lot fall more into the cooler thats been turned into a backpack by adding straps. Id like to find something thats both comfortable and offers some natural insulation. I might have to just go the route you are suggesting.

 

[171farm]

I line a pocket in my regular backpack with that 1/2-3/4" thick sleeping pad foam ( I cut it to size)--- then I use blue ice packs to keep cool-- works well

Interesting take. I hadnt really thought about "retrofitting" a bag to add the insulation. I just though about throwing in some ice packs but wondered how long they would last. We are going late June so temps could be on the warmer side and even though most of our hikes will be on the short side distance wise, I could see them taking a far amount of time taking in the sights, going slow enough that my son doesnt complain and or just general down time once we get to our destination requiring some form of additional insulation. Your idea in interesting for sure