Dometic, a Swedish company founded by outdoor enthusiasts from Electrolux, has become a global leader in outdoor tech by expanding from compact refrigeration to climate systems, cooking, shelter, marine, power solutions and more. Their commitment to usability, innovation and quality is evident in their range of durable products designed for long-lasting outdoor adventures.

The Dometic PSC Soft Cooler range, available in 9L and 19L shoulder strap bags and a 22L backpack, exemplifies this innovation. The design and comfort of the Cooler Backpack would pass as a straight-up backpack, with stylish Slate (black) and Moss (pale mint) colour options and a modern look. It features padded shoulder straps and back panels that provide ergonomic comfort and airflow, even with a heavy load. For instance, carrying a whole carton of beer and ice bricks was manageable with just a few quick adjustments and use of the sternum strap. At 300(W) x 500(D) x 234(H) mm, it offers ample space, holding up to 38 cold cans (without ice) or several upright champagne bottles and extras.

The backpack boasts 16 exterior MOLLE loops, perfect for attaching accessories like hats, keys, and a Solmates sunscreen applicator or even securing it to bikes, SUPs or kayaks. Despite its soft cooler designation, the Backpack Cooler is incredibly sturdy, made with a thick EVA foam base, tough 600D TPU-coated exterior with a 420D nylon liner and ultra-strong EVA insulation. When Dometic say their products are made to last, they mean it! At 1.9 kg, it’s light enough and easy to carry for safe transport of cans, glass bottles and other goods.

The backpack is sleek yet practical, featuring a TIZIP MasterSeal zip that creates an airtight seal, ensuring the pressurised cold stays inside. Complemented by a toggle, the zip is wider than the bag for all-round convenience and tie-down clips on both sides firmly pull that down to keep everything tight. The padded top handle also makes it easy to grab and unzip.

Testing the cooler’s leakproof claims over 24 hours, we filled it with water, tilted it, sprayed it with a hose and even submerged it. Not a drop leaked, in our out, confirming the cooler’s airtight seal and marine-quality waterproofing. The IPX6-rated TPU-coated material ensures quick and easy cleaning, whether from sand, dirt or water.

After using the Cooler Backpack extensively, we realised it would be perfect for hunters targeting game meat. While Sweden’s rich hunting heritage may have influenced its design, this could also be a new, untapped market for the Dometic Backpack Cooler. The backpack is durable and large enough to hold significant cuts of meat, allowing for the easiest of carry-outs for hunters. It also ensures the meat stays fresh and secure for extended periods, even allowing hunters to leave it at a designated spot for a stalk or after field dressing and return for it later if needed or when heading back to camp. If a drop of water won’t penetrate the cooler, it’s unlikely pests like flies or even ants will. The Glow (bright yellow) colour option available overseas suits this scenario, so hopefully it makes its way to Australia. Additionally, the Backpack Cooler’s hardened base and leak-proof engineering make it ideal for fishing, allowing water storage to keep fish or crabs alive. For those who fish from rocks or at hard-to-reach locations, everything about the versatile hands-free Backpack Cooler is invaluable.

Whether for beach trips, the bush, picnics or urban use, the Dometic Soft Cooler Backpack suits all outdoor enthusiasts. With a RRP of $449.95, the 22L Backpack Cooler offers a 3-year warranty and comes with lubricant for the zip and a generous cinch bag. You’ll find them online and at outdoor stores like BCF, where commonly, if a member, you can save some coin.

FAQs
How long does the Dometic PSC 22 Backpack Soft Cooler keep items cold?
Food and drinks will stay cold and fresh for several days, depending on the amount of ice used and external temperatures. The high-quality insulation and airtight TIZIP MasterSeal zipper help maintain cold temperatures for extended periods.

Is the Dometic PSC 22 Backpack Soft Cooler truly leakproof?
Yes, the cooler is IPX6-rated for waterproofing. It has been tested under extreme conditions and the airtight TIZIP MasterSeal zipper ensures no leaks in or out.

What can the Dometic PSC 22 Backpack Soft Cooler hold?
With a 22L capacity, the cooler can hold 38 standard cans and easily fits a carton of cans or half a dozen champagne/wine bottles along with a full bag of ice. It’s even spacious enough for large cuts of game meat or fresh fish.

Is the Dometic PSC 22 Backpack Soft Cooler comfortable to carry on long adventures?
Yes, the backpack features padded shoulder straps, a sternum strap, and back panels for ergonomic comfort and airflow. Even when fully loaded, quick adjustments allow for balanced weight distribution and comfortable carrying.

Where can I buy the Dometic PSC 22 Backpack Soft Cooler?
You can purchase the cooler online through the Dometic website or leading outdoor retail outlets like BCF.