What does quart or liter capacity mean when shopping for coolers?

It is the stated capacity of the cooler, and it is the quickest way to compare sizes across different shapes. On this page you will see capacities like 20 and 45 quart coolers and 7, 12 and 25 liter soft coolers.

Should I choose a hard cooler or a soft cooler?

Choose a hard cooler if you want a rigid, box-style shape; choose a soft cooler if you prefer a flexible, bag-style design. Compare listed capacity (quarts/liters) and use photos to confirm opening style and carry details.

What is the difference between a tote cooler and a backpack cooler?

A tote cooler is carried by handles (and sometimes a shoulder strap), while a backpack cooler is worn with two shoulder straps. Both styles list capacity, so you can compare sizes even when the shapes look different.

What should I check if I want a cooler that rolls?

Look for a wheeled cooler and confirm it has wheels and a pull handle in the photos and features. Capacity is still listed in quarts or liters, so you can compare it to carry-only styles.

How should I clean and store a cooler between uses?

Follow the Care and cleaning instructions on the product page for your specific cooler. Let it dry completely before storing, and store it the way the product instructions recommend.

It's time to upgrade your browser

Your current browser is no longer supported on llbean.com. Please upgrade to one of the following for a smoother, safer shopping experience with us:

CHROME

FIREFOX

SAFARI

MICROSOFT EDGE

Skip to product results

Coolers

Sort by:

Filter & Sort

27 Items

Viewing 1 - 27 of 27

A good cooler starts with the right size and carry style. This collection brings together L.L.Bean coolers and cooler bags in a range of shapes and capacities, including hard coolers, soft coolers, tote coolers and backpack coolers.

Start by comparing capacity. Many styles list size in quarts or liters, such as 20 and 45 quart coolers, a 30 quart tote cooler, and softpack coolers in 7, 12 and 25 liters. Then check the Specs for overall dimensions and how the cooler opens, so it fits the way you like to pack.

Next, look at carry details. Some coolers are box-style with top lids and side handles, while others are built like bags with grab handles and shoulder straps. You will also find backpack and wheeled options, which can change how you prefer to move your cooler from place to place.

Want to narrow it down? Start with Hard vs. Soft Coolers, or shop Soft Coolers and Backpack Coolers. For more gear, explore Outdoor Equipment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does quart or liter capacity mean when shopping for coolers?
A: It is the stated capacity of the cooler, and it is the quickest way to compare sizes across different shapes. On this page you will see capacities like 20 and 45 quart coolers and 7, 12 and 25 liter soft coolers.
Q: Should I choose a hard cooler or a soft cooler?
A: Choose a hard cooler if you want a rigid, box-style shape; choose a soft cooler if you prefer a flexible, bag-style design. Compare listed capacity (quarts/liters) and use photos to confirm opening style and carry details.
Q: What is the difference between a tote cooler and a backpack cooler?
A: A tote cooler is carried by handles (and sometimes a shoulder strap), while a backpack cooler is worn with two shoulder straps. Both styles list capacity, so you can compare sizes even when the shapes look different.
Q: What should I check if I want a cooler that rolls?
A: Look for a wheeled cooler and confirm it has wheels and a pull handle in the photos and features. Capacity is still listed in quarts or liters, so you can compare it to carry-only styles.
Q: How should I clean and store a cooler between uses?
A: Follow the Care and cleaning instructions on the product page for your specific cooler. Let it dry completely before storing, and store it the way the product instructions recommend.

This content was created with AI assistance and reviewed for accuracy and quality.

It's time to upgrade your browser

Coolers

Shop All Coolers & Cooler Bags

Frequently Asked Questions