Camping is all about enjoying the great outdoors, and a quality cooler is essential to keeping your food and drinks fresh during your adventure. In this comprehensive guide, we have researched and compiled a list of the best coolers for camping, including detailed information about their features, performance, and durability. Read on to discover your ideal camping cooler and get ready for your next outdoor expedition.
How to Choose the Perfect Camping Cooler
Ice Retention
Ice retention is a critical factor to consider when choosing a camping cooler. A longer ice retention time means your food and beverages stay cold and fresh for an extended period. Look for coolers with thick insulation and high-quality sealing systems to ensure optimal ice retention.
Capacity
Consider the size of your camping group and the duration of your trip when determining the capacity of your cooler. A larger cooler is necessary for extended trips or larger groups, but keep in mind that larger coolers can be heavier and more challenging to transport.
Durability
A high-quality camping cooler should be built to withstand harsh outdoor conditions. Look for coolers with sturdy construction, reinforced hinges, and strong handles. Rotomolded coolers are particularly durable and are designed to last for years.
Portability
Choose a cooler with features that make it easy to transport, such as wheels, side handles, or shoulder straps. Smaller, lighter coolers are generally more portable but may compromise on capacity and ice retention.
In-Depth Reviews: Best Coolers for Camping
Yeti Tundra 45
(My Choice for the best cooler for camping)
The Yeti Tundra 45 is an excellent choice for campers seeking a high-performance cooler with exceptional durability. With its rotomolded construction, this cooler is designed to withstand the toughest outdoor conditions. The Tundra 45 has a 45-quart capacity and boasts an ice retention time of 7-10 days, thanks to its pressure-injected polyurethane foam insulation and freezer-quality gasket.
Pros:
- Rugged and durable
- Excellent ice retention
- Easy-to-use rubber latches
Cons:
- Expensive
- Heavy for its size
Coleman Xtreme 5
For campers on a budget, the Coleman Xtreme 5 offers a fantastic blend of performance and value. This 70-quart cooler features a large capacity, making it ideal for bigger groups and longer trips. The Xtreme 5 boasts an impressive 5-day ice retention, thanks to its insulated lid and walls. With its easy-to-use drain and comfortable handles, this cooler is user-friendly and convenient.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Large capacity
- Good ice retention for the price
Cons:
- Less durable than premium options
- No rubber latches
Pelican Elite 70
The Pelican Elite 70 is a heavy-duty cooler with outstanding ice retention capabilities. Its 70-quart capacity ensures ample space for food and beverages, while the 2-inch polyurethane insulation and freezer-grade gasket help to maintain ice for up to 9 days. This cooler also features a built-in bottle opener, cup holders, and sturdy wheels for easy transport.
Pros:
- Rugged construction
- Excellent ice retention
- Convenient features and accessories
Cons:
- Expensive
- Heavy
Igloo BMX 52
The Igloo BMX 52 is a reliable and affordable option for those who prioritize portability. With a 52-quart capacity, this cooler offers ample storage without being overly cumbersome. Its durable construction, reinforced hinges, and skid pads ensure long-lasting performance, while the 5-day ice retention time provides adequate cooling for most camping trips.
Pros:
- Lightweight and portable
- Durable construction
- Budget-friendly
Cons:
- Ice retention is not as long as some competitors
- No wheels or extra features
RTIC 65
The RTIC 65 is a high-performance cooler with a generous 65-quart capacity, perfect for large camping groups or extended trips. Its rotomolded construction, heavy-duty rubber latches, and commercial-grade insulation contribute to an impressive 10-day ice retention. This cooler also features a rapid V-drain system for easy cleaning and maintenance.
Pros:
- Excellent ice retention
- Durable and rugged
- Large capacity
Cons:
- Expensive
- Heavy and less portable
Coho 55-Quart Rotomolded Cooler
(My budget choice for the best cooler for camping)
The Coho 55-Quart Rotomolded Cooler is a versatile and high-quality option that delivers impressive performance at a reasonable price point. This cooler is perfect for campers who need a dependable cooling solution without breaking the bank.
Constructed with rotomolded technology, the Coho 55-Quart Cooler is built for durability and resilience, even in harsh outdoor environments. Its 55-quart capacity provides ample storage space for food and beverages, making it suitable for various camping trips and outdoor activities.
With its 2-inch thick insulation and airtight gasket, the Coho Cooler offers an impressive ice retention time of up to 7 days. This ensures that your perishables stay fresh and chilled throughout your camping adventure.
Best of all, if you have a Costco membership, you can find this cooler for around $140 at the time of publication.
Pros:
- Durable rotomolded construction
- Excellent ice retention time
- Reasonably priced
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons:
- Lacks some premium features found in higher-priced options
- No wheels for added portability
Yeti Roadie 24
The Yeti Roadie 24 is a compact and portable cooler designed for those who need a high-quality, convenient cooling solution for shorter camping trips or day excursions. This cooler offers exceptional performance and durability in a smaller package, making it perfect for individual campers or small groups.
Boasting up to 3 inches of PermaFrost insulation and a freezer-quality gasket, the Roadie 24 provides excellent ice retention, keeping your food and beverages cold for up to 2-3 days.
Pros:
- Compact and portable design
- Rugged, durable construction
- Excellent insulation for its size
- Easy one-handed access with QuickLatch system
Cons:
- Expensive for its size
- Limited capacity may not suit all camping needs
BruTank 55-Quart Rolling Cooler
The BruTank 55-Quart Rolling Cooler is a versatile and convenient option for campers who require a combination of excellent cooling performance and easy transport. With its robust construction and built-in wheels, this cooler is perfect for a wide range of outdoor adventures.
With its thick insulation and high-quality gasket, the BruTank Cooler delivers impressive ice retention, keeping your perishables cold for up to 5 days. This ensures that you can enjoy fresh and chilled food and drinks throughout your camping adventure.
Pros:
- Compact and portable design
- Rugged, durable construction
- Excellent insulation for its size
- Easy one-handed access with QuickLatch system
Cons:
- Expensive for its size
- Limited capacity may not suit all camping needs
Cooler Maintenance and Cleaning Tips
To ensure the longevity of your camping cooler, follow these maintenance and cleaning tips:
- Pre-chill your cooler: Pre-chilling your cooler with ice or ice packs before use will help extend ice retention.
- Clean your cooler: After each use, clean the cooler with mild soap and warm water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Dry thoroughly: Before storing your cooler, make sure it is completely dry to prevent mold and mildew growth.
- Lubricate hinges and latches: Regularly lubricate the hinges and latches to maintain smooth operation and prevent rust.
Frequently Asked Questions
To pack your cooler efficiently, follow these steps:
Pre-chill your food and beverages before placing them in the cooler.
Layer the bottom of the cooler with ice or ice packs, followed by your perishable items, and then add another layer of ice on top.
Pack items in airtight containers or plastic bags to prevent cross-contamination and keep your cooler clean.
Organize items according to when they will be used, placing items needed later in the trip at the bottom.
Fill any empty spaces with extra ice or ice packs to minimize air circulation, which can cause ice to melt faster.
To maximize ice retention, pre-chill your cooler, use a 2:1 ice-to-content ratio, and minimize the number of times you open the cooler.
Some coolers are compatible with dry ice, but always check the manufacturer’s guidelines before using dry ice in your cooler.
Soft coolers can be suitable for short camping trips or day hikes, but they typically have shorter ice retention times compared to hard coolers.
To prevent leaks and messes, follow these tips:
Ensure the cooler’s drain plug is tightly closed to prevent water from leaking out as the ice melts.
Use ice packs or block ice instead of loose ice to reduce the amount of meltwater.
Pack food and beverages in airtight containers or sealed plastic bags to contain spills and prevent cross-contamination.
Secure the cooler in your vehicle with tie-down straps or bungee cords to prevent it from tipping over during transport.
To minimize odors and maintain freshness you should regularly clean your cooler using mild soap and warm water, making sure to rinse it completely. You should also dry your cooler before storing to prevent mold and mildew growth. Consider storing your cooler unsealed when in not in use to promote air circulation.