What to Include in a Custom Cooler Bag Brief

A useful cooler bag brief starts with what the bag needs to hold, how it will be carried and how it will be cleaned. A reference photo, sample or sketch is enough to start the conversation. Add the details below so your manufacturer can review the design and prepare a more useful quote or sample.

1. Describe what the bag needs to carry

For a portable lunch bag, provide the dimensions of the largest lunch container and say whether a bottle needs its own pocket. For an insulated tote, list how many containers it needs to hold and whether they must stay upright. For a soft cooler, describe the drinks or other items it will carry, the space needed for ice packs, and the expected packed weight.

Browse our Custom Cooler Bag Programs for reference styles. If you choose one, mark the features you want to keep and the changes you need.

2. Specify the opening, usable space and carry method

Give the target outside dimensions and the minimum space needed inside. Insulation and lining take up room, so confirm the fit with your actual containers during sample review. If a container needs to slide in flat, give its dimensions and show how you want to load it.

State your preferred opening, such as a zip top or a flap, and whether users will carry the bag by hand or over the shoulder. Include the expected packed weight so handle or strap placement can be reviewed for the intended use.

3. Set cleaning and performance requirements

Explain what may spill inside the bag and how you expect users to clean it. For example, say whether the lining should be easy to wipe after everyday spills or whether the design needs to be evaluated for containing meltwater.

If you have a temperature target, specify the starting temperature, expected ambient conditions, duration and whether ice packs will be used. For leak resistance, describe the liquid, how much may collect and whether the bag will be upright or tilted. Agree on the test method and what counts as a pass before approving any performance claim.

4. Include branding, quantities and delivery details

Send your logo artwork and mark the desired placement and size. List your preferred colours, any labels or retail packaging, the quantity per style and colour, the destination market and the required delivery date. Flag any testing or documentation requirements early so they can be included in the quote.

Quick checklist before you send your brief

• Contents, largest item dimensions and expected packed weight
• Target outside dimensions and minimum usable space inside
• Opening, pockets and carry method
• Lining and cleaning requirements
• Any temperature or leak resistance targets and test conditions
• Logo artwork, quantities, destination and delivery date

Start a Project with your reference style and the requirements you already know. List any open decisions you want to review during sampling.