11 Best Beach Backpacks - Cooler, Mesh and Waterproof Backpacks for the Beach
Whether you are planning a quick day trip or an extended beach vacation, having the right beach backpack can make your days in the sun all that much more enjoyable.
In this buying guide we review the best beach backpacks you can use this summer! From beach cooler backpacks to versatile waterproof daypacks that you can take into town - we have you covered!
Types of Beach Backpacks
The perfect backpack for the beach can come in different shapes and sizes. Deciding which type is the best for you depends on your carry needs. Here are a few different types of beach backpacks, each with their own special features.
TYR Big Mesh Mummy - mesh beach backpack
Mesh Beach Backpacks
Mesh backpacks are often the go-to beach backpack and its easy to see why. Their mesh construction allows water and sand to pass through the mesh webbing for less mess when storing gear such as beach toys and towels. Most mesh backpacks are also very lightweight and easy to fold and stow away in the off-season or while traveling.
We recommend a mesh beach backpack to families who carry lots of toys, snorkeling gear and multiple towels and who only need to use their backpacks specifically for beach or pool days.
Patagonia Fieldsmith Roll-Top Pack - lightweight beach backpack
Lightweight & Waterproof Beach Backpacks
These backpacks are versatile everyday backpacks that thrive on near the water thanks to their roomy open compartments, water resistant or waterproof materials and simple construction that allows for easier cleaning of sand and dirt after a long day of soaking up rays.
We recommend these packs to those who need a beach backpack that can also be used for travel or an afternoon on the town.
Coleman Soft Cooler - beach cooler backpack
Beach Cooler Backpacks
A cooler backpack for the beach consists of one special compartment that is insulated to keep beverages and food chilled.
We recommend beach cooler backpacks to anyone who spends long days on the beach and need a convenient way to carry their food and beverages while keeping them nice and cool. Cooler backpacks are much easier to carry than large clunky coolers and can provide extra storage for additional gear.
Best Beach Backpacks
TYR Big Mesh Mummy Backpack
The TYR Big Mesh Mummy is a large beach backpack that means business. Perfect for those who love to stay active on the beach, the Big Mesh Mummy’s massive 40 liter main compartment is large enough to store snorkeling gear, beach games and multiple towels and blankets. Pockets on the front also gives you extra organization for smaller must-haves like sunscreen and water bottles.
Read more about the TYR Big Mesh Mummy
What makes the TYR Big Mesh Mummy the best backpack for the beach?
Massive 40L main compartment for large and bulky beach items
Mesh construction allows sandy and wet items to be stored inside
Lightweight and packable when not in use
Available in a ton of fun colors
The TYR Big Mesh Mummy backpack consists of one large 40-liter main compartment and two smaller pockets on the front for holding smaller items.
The massive main compartment is large enough to hold multiple beach towels, snorkeling gear, beach toys and games. While the smaller pockets on the front of the bag are great spots for your water bottles, wallet, sunglasses, sunscreen and other smaller beach essentials that you need fast and easy access to.
The mesh construction makes the TYR Big Mesh Mummy super easy to keep clean and sand-free. Storing wet items inside this backpack is also possible as the mesh walls provide needed airflow for drying while on the move.
We recommend the TYR Big Mesh Mummy as a mesh beach backpack for families thanks to its large internal capacity and lightweight mesh design that makes cleaning and storing the pack simple and easy.
The Ridge Classic Backpack Weatherproof
The Ridge offers a rugged and waterproof backpack in a timeless design that’s perfect for both beach days and nights in town. This backpack is constructed with a waterproof nylon shell and YKK Aquaguard zippers for peace of mind near the shoreline.
Need to charge your phone mid-day? No problem, each Classic Backpack comes equipped with a built-in USB charging port.
Read more about the Ridge Classic Backpack
What makes the Ridge Classic the best beach backpack?
Weatherproof design made with waterproof nylon material and zippers
Integrated USB port for charging on right on the beach!
Great pocket placement
Versatile design - perfect as a travel daypack
The Ridge Classic Backpack is a great option if you are looking for a backpack for the beach that can also be used as a travel daypack. Each Classic Backpack is equipped with a padded sleeve for a laptop or tablet, an external USB charging port and plenty of pockets throughout for all of your gear.
As a beach backpack, the Ridge Classic offers the comfort and utility of a daily backpack with added waterproof protection and a rugged nylon construction. This makes it a great choice for beach days, day hikes and other outdoor activities.
Its waterproof nylon shell and interior liner makes the Ridge Classic incredible easy to clean from sand and dirt after a long day on the beach. The main compartment is large enough to stash a beach towel, change of clothes, frisbee or sandals. You also have plenty of pockets throughout for items like portable bluetooth speakers, sunscreen and water bottles.
Coleman Soft Cooler Backpack
The Coleman Soft Cooler Backpack is the perfect beach cooler backpack thanks to its roomy insulated main compartment that can hold up to 28 cans and side and front pockets that give you extra packing room for beach must-haves like sunscreen, reusable water bottles and sunglasses.
Read more about the Coleman Soft Cooler Backpack
What makes the Coleman Soft Cooler Backpack the best beach backpack?
Roomy insulated cooler main compartment
Waterproof welded seams to prevent leaks
Padded shoulder straps and hip belt for comfort even when the backpack gets heavy
Extra front and side pockets for quick access to smaller items
Affordable price (you can usually grab one under $40)
Inside the insulated compartment of the Coleman beach cooler backpack
The Coleman Soft Cooler Backpack is a the perfect solution for anyone who wants to enjoy chilled beverages and food on the beach but doesn’t want to burdened with carrying a larger cooler. This beach cooler backpack solution makes lugging your food and drinks comfortable and easy thanks to its padded shoulder straps and adjustable padded hip belt.
The main compartment on the Coleman Soft Cooler backpack is lined with insulation and heat-welded to prevent leaks. Load this backpack up with ice and cold drinks for a fun day in the sun!
Speedo Deluxe Ventilator Mesh Bag
Speedo offers an affordable mesh beach backpack with a lightweight quick-drying construction that is easy to pack away when not in use. The main compartment is large enough to easily fit larger items such as snorkeling sets, multiple beach towels and beach toys while also including a separate zippered pocket for safe storage of smaller beach day essentials.
Read more about the Speedo Deluxe Ventilator
What makes the Speedo Deluxe Ventilator Mesh Bag a great beach backpack?
Large 33L main compartment fits bulky beach gear
Made of lightweight polyester and quick drying mesh material
Foldable and packable when not in use
Exterior YKK zippered pocket for organizing smaller items
Affordable price (you can usually grab one for under $25)
The main compartment on the Speedo Deluxe Ventilator Mesh Bag is large enough to store two sets of snorkeling gear or multiple beach towels, rash guards, beach toys and games. A zippered pocket on the front gives you additional organization for smaller items such as sunscreen, sunglasses and phone for safekeeping.
Exped Splash 15 Waterproof Backpack
The Exped Splash 15 is a compact and waterproof backpack that’s perfect for those who love to stay active on the beach. The PU coated recycled nylon and rolltop design allows for maximum protection against water while the 15 liter internal capacity gives you enough room for plenty of beach essentials.
When not in use you can roll up the Exped Splash 15 and stuff it inside a bike bag or pants pocket for quick and easy transport!
Read more about the Exped Splash 15
What makes the Exped Splash 15 such a great beach backpack?
15L capacity is perfect for beach day essentials
Waterproof materials and taped seam construction
Lightweight packable design allows for easy storage while traveling
Available in a bunch of fun colors
Made of recycled eco-friendly materials
REI Co-op Cool Trail Split Pack Cooler
The Cool Trail Split Pack by REI is versatile enough to be used as a beach cooler backpack and regular beach day backpack thanks to its cooler insert and unique split-top design that allows for easy access to both beach items and drinks.
Want to make more room in the backpack? Remove the cooler insert to utilize up to 31.5 liters of internal packing capacity!
Read more about the REI Cool Trail Split Pack
What makes the REI Cool Trail Split Pack such a great backpack cooler for the beach?
31.5 liters of internal capacity - perfect for family beach days
Split-top design allows you to keep beach items and cooler in separate compartments
Includes removable leakproof insulated cooler insert.
Cushioned shoulder straps and adjustable sternum strap for all-day comfort
Attachment straps on front of the bag for beach towels and blankets
The REI Co-op Cool Trail Split Pack Cooler is one of our favorite cooler backpacks thanks to its versatile design that allows you to configure the bag to the way you carry. The split-top design allows for easy access to your drinks and gear thanks to the two separate access zippers. On days where you need to carry more you can also remove the cooler insert all-together to take full advantage of the roomy 31.5L internal capacity.
The four straps on the front of the backpack makes attaching oversized items such as a beach blanket or a lightweight beach chair possible. The two side stretch pockets are also great for stashing sunglasses, sunscreen and other beach day essentials. All of these features and more are what makes the Cool Trail Split Pack such a great backpack cooler for the beach.
Eastsport XL Mesh Backpack
The Eastsport XL Mesh Backpack is perfect for anyone looking for a traditional backpack in a beach-friendly design. Leave the sand on the beach! A quick drying mesh construction prevents sand from accumulating inside the backpack and padded shoulder straps allows for comfortable all day wear.
Read more about the Eastsport XL
What makes the Easton XL a great mesh beach backpack?
Affordable price
Roomy main compartment with smaller pockets for organization
Padded adjustable shoulder straps (instead of thin straps)
Webbing on front for storage of additional items
Unlike other mesh beach backpacks, the Easton XL Mesh Backpack keeps the features we love about traditional backpacks such as padded adjustable shoulder straps, extra pockets for organizing smaller items and traditional side water bottle pockets.
The mesh construction is perfect for the beach, pool or water park as it offers a breathable environment for wet items to dry while on the move. No more wet and stinky backpack pockets!
Patagonia Fieldsmoth Roll Top Pack
Equipped with a water resistant DWR finish and an impressive 30 liters of internal capacity, the Patagonia Fieldsmith Roll Top Pack is the perfect beach-day backpack for those who want an easy way to haul their gear.
The roomy main compartment is large enough for beach towels and blankets, snorkeling sets and a frisbee while the recycled polyester construction makes keeping the backpack clean of dirt and sand after a long day on the beach a simple task.
Read more about the Patagonia Fieldsmith Roll Top
What makes the Patagonia Fieldsmith Roll Top Pack the best backpack beach bag?
Water resistant materials for peace of mind
Large roomy 30 liter roll top design that expands as you need it
Lightweight construction that’s easy to keep clean yet rugged enough for outdoor adventures
Made of eco-friendly recycled materials and Fair Trade Certified™ sewn
After getting our hands on the Patagonia Fieldsmith Roll Top Pack it’s been our go-to backpack for fun adventures outdoors. It’s no-fuss rolltop design allows us to compress and expand the size of the backpack as needed. Plus its recycled polyester construction means the Fieldsmith Roll Top is easy to keep clean and lightweight enough to pack full without worry.
Available in multiple colors and fun patterns, the Patagonia Fieldsmith Roll Top Pack is great for anyone looking for a cute beach backpack that can be taken into town after a long day in the sand.
Matador Freerain22 Waterproof Packable Backpack
The Matador Freerain22 is an ultralight waterproof backpack that compresses for easy storage while traveling. This backpack was constructed specifically for wet outdoor activities and features a 100% waterproof main compartment for peace of mind when out on the water.
We recommend the Freerain22 as a beach backpack for those who want a high quality, thoughtfully engineered backpack that they can be confident taking virtually anywhere.
Read more about the Matador Freerain22
What makes the Matador Freerain22 a great backpack for the beach?
Roomy 22 liter internal capacity
100% waterproof main compartment
Best in class technical construction and materials
Gear loops for storage of oversized items
Compressible for travel
The Matador Freerain22 beach backpack for men who want more from their gear than just a stylish design. This backpack was made for travelers who find themselves in wet conditions - hiking, surfing, boating, kayaking. The compressible design allows the Freerain22 to fold into the size of a t-shirt for easy packing to and from destinations. With a completely waterproof main compartment, advanced engineered high-tech materials and a sleek design, the Matador Freerain22 might actually be the ultimate mens beach backpack.
Columbia PFG Insulated Cooler Backpack
Columbia offers an insulated cooler backpack for the beach and more with their PFG Roll Caster. The large insulated main compartment can fit up to 30 cans while various extra pockets and the exterior bungee cord allows you to store additional beach items in style.
What makes the Columbia PFG Insulated Cooler Backpack special is its Slime-Tech technology exterior that protects the backpack from gunk, muck and dirt - keeping your backpack clean and ready for storage when not in use.
Read more about the Columbia PFG Cooler Backpack
What makes the Columbia PFG Roll Caster a great backpack for the beach?
Leakproof insulated main compartment can hold up to 30 cans
Padded mesh back panel and shoulder straps for breathable comfort in warm weather
Includes a bonus insulated front zipper pocket for snacks
Constructed with an easy to clean anti-bacterial lining
What sets the Columbia PFG Insulated Cooler Backpack apart from other beach cooler backpacks is its emphasis on keeping the bag clean with minimal effort. The inside of the cooler is made with Microban which protects against bacterial odors and stains. The outside of the backpack is constructed with Slime-Tech technology which is resistant to dirt, gunk and muck. These special materials translate into an easier to clean and more hygienic cooler backpack option that is perfect for those who often keep their beach bags in storage during the off-seasons.
Arean Team 45 Backpack
Available in a dozen fun patterns and colors, the Arena Team 45 is the perfect family beach backpack thanks to its beach-ready features such as breathable compartments for moisture control, large mesh pockets for wet gear and plenty of pockets throughout for all of your beach must-haves.
Read more about the Arena Team 45
What makes the Arena Team 45 a great backpack for the beach?
Massive storage: 45 liters (perfect for families)
Breathable compartments to control moisture
Large mesh compartment to keep wet items separate
Waterproof reinforced bottom for extra protection
The Arena Team 45 Backpack is a cute beach backpack with some big features that shine for both swimmers and beach goers alike. The massive 45 liter internal capacity gives you enough room to store multiple towels, blankets, beach toys and smaller accessories. Each compartment was designed to be as breathable as possible to help damp items dry while on the move. Say goodbye to stinky wet backpacks!
How to Choose the Best Beach Backpack
Need help choosing a beach backpack? Here are some tips of what to look out for when picking out a new beach bag!
Make a Packing List
Before choosing the right backpack for your next day at shore, it’s important to get an idea of what exactly you’ll be carrying. Making a packing list with all of the items you need before shopping for a new beach bag will make it easy to determine what size is best and which pockets and compartment you can’t live without!
A sample beach packing list:
Towel
Beach blanket
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Water, beverages and snacks
Headphones
Book/Journal
Portable Power Bank for charging
Sun Hat
Frisbee
Bluetooth Speaker
Read more tips
Water Resistant or Waterproof?
A water resistant or waterproof backpack for the beach is recommended for those who like to enjoy things on the beach they can’t afford to get wet. Think of books, writing journals, headphones or iPads. A good water resistant or waterproof backpack will give you peace of mind giving you more time to focus on enjoying the day outdoors.
But what is the difference between water resistant and waterproof?
Water resistant backpacks repel some water but not all. They are great at preventing moisture from light rain or water splashes from reaching the inside but have a limit to how much water they can repel. Water resistant backpacks usually have coated exterior fabrics or special lining on the inside to get the job done. You’ll know a backpack is water resistant because drops of water will bead on top of the fabric and roll off instead of seeping into it.
If you don’t plan on taking your beach backpack near the water, then a water resistant backpack will be more than enough protection from the occasional light splash.
Waterproof backpacks are a big step up from water resistant bags because they consist of heavier-duty construction such as waterproof zippers or rolltops, special watertight seams and waterproof materials that moisture can’t penetrate.
A true waterproof backpack can even be submerged in water although these backpacks are usually advertised as “watertight” or “airtight”. Most backpacks advertised as waterproof might not be able to be fully submerged in water but they will survive heavy rain downpours or a nasty wave splash at the beach. We recommend going with a waterproof backpack if you like to set down your beach towel close to a sneaky tide or if you would like a small bag to bring with you when participating in water sports.
The Backpack Should Be Easy to Clean
Let’s face it, cleaning up your beach accessories after a long day on the beach can be a major chore. Sandy items and wet gear does tend to make a mess inside bags and cars. We’ve all been there.
Your beach backpack should be easy to keep clean!
The most low maintenance beach backpacks are made out of mesh. These lightweight backpacks promote airflow for quicker drying of your wet items and the netting will allow for sand to stay on the beach, instead of following you in the car or hotel room. Just give your mesh beach backpack a shake and you are good to go!
If you would like a beach backpack that is more substantial than mesh bags, then we recommend a simple lightweight backpack that is easy to turn inside out and wipe down. This means avoiding backpacks that have compartments where sand can be easily trapped such as padded laptop compartments, fleece-lined pockets and smaller organizer pockets for things like pens and pencils.
Simple backpacks with large main compartments and one or two extra pockets would be ideal for easy cleaning after a long beach day.
Keep it Lightweight
We recommend lightweight beach backpacks over big heavy backpacks for good reason. Lightweight backpacks are easier to clean, have less pockets where sand can get caught in and keep you comfortable when packing heavier loads such as multiple towels and beach toys. If you are traveling to the beach on holiday, then a lightweight backpack will be much easier to pack inside your luggage since many are compressible and packable.
