The RTIC Soft Pack 20 is a durable and budget-friendly soft cooler ideal for short trips, effectively retaining ice for up to 48 hours in moderate conditions. While the zipper can be stiff and the strap less comfortable, it performs reliably for beach outings, fishing, and road trips, especially when purchased on sale.
The RTIC Soft Pack 20 is a soft cooler I’ve used for several years, and it has served me well in a variety of settings. Whether it’s a trip to the beach or a fishing excursion where I hope to bring home some fresh catch, this cooler has been a reliable companion.
Why I Chose the RTIC Soft Pack 20
When searching for a multipurpose cooler to fit my active lifestyle, I wanted something high quality but didn’t want to splurge on a YETI or other premium brands. Fortunately, I found the RTIC Soft Pack 20 on a significant sale. While it typically retails for $99, RTIC frequently runs discounts. The wide range of available colors was a nice touch, though it did slow down my decision-making process. Eventually, I selected one and placed my order.
First Impressions & Build Quality
Upon arrival, I was immediately impressed with the cooler’s solid construction. However, I’ll admit I wasn’t thrilled with the color I chose. The body material is rigid and durable, holding up well against abrasions and punctures. The strap stitching is well-made, adding to the overall durability.
One of the cooler’s biggest drawbacks is its main zipper. While it’s designed to keep the cold in, it’s quite stiff and difficult to use. RTIC does include zipper lubricant, which helps. The plastic zipper doesn’t feel particularly high-end, but despite four years of use, it has yet to break.
The adjustable shoulder strap is functional but not the most comfortable. The padded section doesn’t mold well to the body, though given the cooler’s typical carrying weight, it’s not a major issue. The front zippered pocket is small, holding only slim items like a fishing license, beach pass, wallet, or maybe a pair of AirPods.
Performance & Ice Retention
The “20” in Soft Pack 20 refers to its 20-can capacity, and it does a great job keeping contents cold. One of my most impressive experiences with it was during a fishing trip when my friend and I landed a large tuna—the cooler kept our steaks cold for the drive home.
To test its ice retention, I packed it with an RTIC-brand ice pack, a five-pack of beer (the sixth was already consumed), and a bag of ice. Everything fit well.
• After 24 hours: About 50% of the ice had melted, but the beers and remaining water were still ice-cold.
• After 48 hours: All the ice was gone, but the water and beers remained very cold.
This test was conducted indoors. In hot summer conditions, I suspect the ice retention would be closer to 24–36 hours.
Final Thoughts
The RTIC Soft Pack 20 is a solid choice for short trips, but I wouldn’t rely on it for anything over 24 hours unless you have access to a refrigerator. It’s perfect for day hikes, beach outings, road trips, or keeping snacks and drinks cold in your car.
At its price point, especially if found on sale, it offers great value. If I were in the market for a compact, durable, and budget-friendly soft cooler—especially one I wouldn’t mind roughing up—I’d buy it again.
Fishing, Dogs, and Outdoors 
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