Best Camping Coolers of 2024: The Ultimate Guide
Want to keep your camp food fresh and drinks cold? From over 10 years of camping I’ve learned that choosing one of the best camping coolers is key! This guide cuts through the noise and shows you the coolers that have earned their spot at my campsite. I’ll walk you through ice retention, portability and budget to make sure your next wilderness adventure is with the right cooler companion.
Top Picks for the Best Camping Coolers
With this list, you’re already on your way to picking the cooler that will best complement your next wilderness adventure.
With this list, you’re already on your way to picking the cooler that will best complement your next wilderness adventure.
Best for Ice Retention: YETI Tundra 45 Cooler
The Yeti Tundra 45 is a behemoth among coolers and from my own camping trips I can attest to its freezing powers. It’s one of the coolers I pack when I want to go off the grid for a week or more and the ice retention is in a class of its own. Having a Yeti cooler is like carrying a treasure chest; I always keep an eye out for cooler bandits drawn to its reputation and cooling abilities. It’s heavy – not just in price but in weight – and pre-cooling is a must to get the most out of it. But for us who go far and wide and see our cooler as an investment in many future adventures the Yeti Tundra 45 is the reliable companion that never complains no matter how rough the journey gets.
- The YETI Tundra 45 keeps ice for days with PermaFrost Insulation and FatWall design.
- Durability is key, with Rotomolded Construction making it basically indestructible for rough outdoor use.
- Versatility and convenience comes standard with T-Rex Lid Latches, dry goods basket and drain system.
- It’s 23 pounds empty so it can be heavy for some to carry, especially when full.
- It’s big but the actual storage space feels smaller due to the thick walls.
- It’s pricey for a cooler, not for everyone especially if you don’t need that kind of performance.
Best for Effortless Transport: Igloo Maxcold Roller
The Igloo Maxcold Latitude Roller is a great value if you want a reliable and affordable cooler. Minor issues with the handle wiggling or lid hinge being less sturdy doesn’t detract from its overall performance. This cooler keeps your drinks cold so it’s a contender for one of Best Camping Coolers. Whether for a beach day, camping trip or festival its functionality and value makes it a smart choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
If you need a dependable and budget friendly cooling solution the Igloo Maxcold Latitude Roller is a good one. It keeps refreshments cold for hours so your adventures are enjoyable. Even with some minor design flaws its great performance and convenience. So it’s one of the Best Camping Coolers for anyone looking for a budget friendly and efficient cooler for all outdoor activities.
- Igloo 62 quart cooler. MaxCold 4-Day Performance. Great for extended use.
- Equipped with big wheels, it’s easy to move over rough terrain.
- Features a locking telescoping handle with gear hanger notches and dry storage compartment.
- Some say the handles are not very sturdy when full.
- Lid hinge and insulation not very good. May not hold temp as advertised.
- Big capacity but build quality is questionable. Some have issues with the wheels and handle.
Best for Budget-Friendly Quality: Coleman Xtreme Cooler
Wouldn’t it be great to have cold drinks without breaking the bank? The Coleman Xtreme soft cooler makes it possible for budget campers. These soft coolers punch above their weight class with insulated lids and extra wall insulation that keeps your ice solid for days even when the temp soars.
But somewhere corners had to be cut to keep the price tag friendly and you might find the latches not as sturdy as the high-end ones. But if you’re not planning to wrestle bears or climb mountains with your cooler, the Coleman Xtreme series is a great option for short trips and even occasional long weekend getaways.
- Keeps things cold for up to 3 days with PU full foam insulation. Great for long days outdoors.
- 26L of space for bottles, cans and food. Perfect for group outings like picnics and festivals.
- HDPE plastic and doubles as a seat with a 113kg weight capacity. Great for outdoor use.
- While sturdy, some users may find it a bit heavy. Not as portable for longer hikes.
- Dimensions seem to be inconsistent. Confusing size and capacity.
- Limited color options. Not everyone will like options they have.
Best for the Lightweight: RTIC Ultra-Light 52 Quart Hard Cooler
In my experience the RTIC 52 QT Ultra-Light Cooler is a game changer for those who count every ounce. It’s the lightweight champion of coolers, with a big interior without the extra bulk. During one of my week long hikes its ice retention lasted half a week, so lightweight doesn’t have to mean light on performance.
It’s not cheap but excellence comes at a price and when you’re miles from civilization and reach for a cold drink or fresh food you’ll be nodding in silent gratitude to the cooler that carried your provisions without weighing you down.
- 30% lighter than comparable rotomolded coolers so you can take it on all your adventures.
- 3 inches of closed-cell foam insulation to keep your drinks cold for days.
- Versatile for camping, fishing, beach trips, BBQs, doubles as a bench or cutting board.
- Cheaper than some premium brands but $209.99 may be out of budget for some.
- Some users said ice melts in 2 days, depends on temperature and how often you open it.
- Plastic material is durable but not as tough as metal.
Best for Retro Style Enthusiasts: Coleman Steel-Belted Cooler
Retro cool with modern features. Long ice life and built tough so your stuff stays cold for hours. One of the Best Camping Coolers for any outdoor adventure, camping or tailgating.
Need a reliable and durable cooler? The Coleman Steel-Belted Cooler is at the top of the list. Classic and robust design makes it a great addition to your outdoor gear. Whether you’re going on a picnic, camping or tailgating this cooler performs and looks good so your adventures are cool and stylish.
- Retro design and heavy-duty build. Looks good and works good for many outdoor activities.
- Premium insulation. Up to 4 day ice retention at 90°F. Great for long trips, camping, outdoor events.
- Versatility is key. Have-A-Seat lid holds up to 250 lbs. Extra seating when you’re out and about.
- When full, it gets heavy. May be difficult to move long distances without help.
- Some users have reported issues with the latch. May not be robust enough if cooler is overstuffed or used heavily over time.
- Despite the sturdy build, some have received coolers with dents or damage. Probably happens during shipping. Bummer for new owners.
Best for High-Tech Chilling: EdgeStar KC2000
The Kegerator and Keg Beer Cooler has become a must have for beer enthusiasts because of its ease of use. It will fit any keg size so you can enjoy your favorite beers at home. This cooler is the Best Camping Cooler for those who want to take their beer dispensing experience to the next level during outdoor gatherings or camping trips.For beer enthusiasts the Kegerator and Keg Beer Cooler is unbeatable in convenience and reliability. Its user friendly design and will fit multiple keg sizes makes it a great addition to any home. Whether you’re having a party or just a quiet night in this cooler will keep your beer cold so it’s one of the Best Camping Coolers for beer lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
- Easy to set up, beer will be flowing in minutes of connecting everything, perfect for the kegerator newb.
- Versatile temperature range, low 30s to mid 40s, so you can chill your beer to your liking.
- Includes 5 lbs CO2 cylinder (empty), you’ll need this to dispense beer, almost a complete setup out of the box.
- Does not support Coors, Miller, rubberized or oversized kegs.
- Some units may have been previously used, signs of wear, which can be concerning if you’re expecting a brand new product.
- Keg coupler and faucet are not top of the line, may affect beer dispensing experience and will need to be upgraded eventually.
Best for Group Hydration: Igloo Water Cooler
I used the Igloo Water Cooler during one of my summer camping trips and it was an essential item for keeping drinks cold. The build and features were solid and met our campsite demands. From early morning hikes to late night campfires this cooler was reliable and my fellow campers feedback only reinforced its reputation as one of the Best Camping Coolers.
The Igloo Water Cooler was great value throughout our trip. Whether we were refilling our water bottles after a long hike or enjoying a cold drink by the campfire this cooler kept our drinks cold. Its durability and functionality made it a top contender for the Best Camping Coolers of 2024, it performed and was convenient for all our hydration needs.
- Recessed and angled drip-resistant spigot makes it super easy to pour cold drinks without a mess.
- Reinforced handles and pressure-fit lid means this cooler is built to last and won’t trap dirt or mold so your drinks stay clean and cold.
- UV inhibitors and infrared technology means this cooler can withstand sun damage, perfect for those long outdoor events.
- Some users say the lid doesn’t screw on so if you tip it over it will leak.
- Finding cups that fit perfectly in the dispenser can be a challenge, not all cups work as intended.
- Minor drawback is the connected rope breaks which can affect portability and convenience.
Best Premium Compact: BougeRV 12V Refrigerator
I have used the BougeRV Car Fridge for all my outdoor travels and it’s been a game changer, it’s a cooler and freezer in one. Its performance and low noise has kept my items cold and fresh even on long road trips. This versatility and efficiency makes it my top pick for the Best Camping Cooler, especially for those who need a reliable cooling solution for both road and sea trips.
I have used this cooler on multiple trips and can personally attest to the BougeRV Car Fridge’s cooling performance. The ability to switch between cooling and freezing modes has given me the flexibility to meet all my needs, my food and drinks stay at the temperature I want. With all its features this cooler is now part of my travel setup and one of the Best Camping Coolers for anyone looking to upgrade their adventures with a cool and efficient cooler.
- Fast cooling technology, can cool down to 32℉ in 15 minutes, keep your food and drinks fresh on the go.
- 45W low power consumption and ECO mode, perfect for long road trips without draining your vehicle’s battery.
- 3 level battery protection. no drain when off grid or on the move.
- 22.27 lb, while light weight, may still be too heavy for some to move or lift into vehicle without help.
- Initial setup may require additional hardware or adjustments if your vehicle or boat doesn’t have power outlet for the fridge’s power needs.
- Temperature control and manual can be confusing, no intuitive instructions, may require extra research or support.
Best for Dedicated Drink Chilling: Coleman 316 Series Cooler
I have used this cooler about 8xs here in Texas over the last couple years. I found the Coleman Cooler to be top notch in durability and insulation. The user friendly design has saved me a lot of headache whether I’m setting up camp or just going on a picnic. This cooler has kept my drinks and snacks cold for hours and hours and has become my go to for all my outdoor activities.
If you’re looking for a good cooler I can personally attest to the Coleman Cooler’s performance and value. Its build and insulation has been my go to for all my outdoor trips. With all its features and reliability this cooler is one of the Best Camping Coolers out there and will keep your drinks and snacks cold and fresh on all your adventures.
- Keeps ice for up to 5 days, even in 90°F weather, so your food and drinks stay cold on your outdoor adventures.
- Has heavy-duty 6 inch wheels and tow & swing-up handles for easy transport, perfect for beach, camping and tailgating.
- Holds up to 160 cans, great for big groups and reduces the need for multiple coolers.
- One review said it came with a wheel missing right out of the box, so quality control is an issue.
- Despite being insulated, one user said it doesn’t keep things cold long and sweats a lot, leaving a mess.
- Cup holders are too shallow and drinks will tip over in a light breeze.
Best for Versatile Ruggedness: Engel HD30 Soft Sided Tote Cooler
The ENGEL HD30 has been a game changer in my camping gear. From my personal experience its high performance and durable construction has been a lifesaver on many outdoor trips. This cooler keeps my drinks cold for hours and hours even in the summer heat. As someone who values eco friendly products I love that the ENGEL HD30 is made with environmentally friendly materials, so it’s the Best Camping Cooler for those who care about their carbon footprint.
If you’re looking for a soft cooler that’s dependable I can vouch for the ENGEL HD30’s durability and cold retention. Its construction has withstood my toughest trips and its eco friendly credentials make it a great addition to any outdoor gear. This cooler keeps my drinks and snacks cold and refreshing for all my outdoor activities.
- Ice retention up to 3-4 days, great for long camping trips or outdoor adventures.
- 100% leak proof with welded seams, your gear will stay dry and safe no matter where you are.
- Super portable with ergonomic shoulder straps and multiple handles for all outdoor activities.
- A bit pricey, so maybe not for budget shoppers.
- Bigger than expected, check dimensions before you buy to make sure it fits in your space.
- Zipper can be a bit stubborn, requires some effort to open and close.
Finding the Best Camping Coolers
Finding your best camping cooler, including backpack coolers, is a personal journey. Size, insulation, durability and price are the guideposts that help you navigate the landscape.
Here are the factors to consider:
- Size: A 75-quart cooler may be your best bet for an extended trip, a smaller one for a weekend warrior.
- Insulation: The construction of your cooler, from the insulation to the color that reflects the sun will affect how well it keeps your food fresh and drinks cold.
- Durability: Look for a cooler that can withstand the outdoor life, with features like reinforced corners and heavy duty handles.
- Price: What’s your budget and what features do you need at that price?
When considering the price remember that a higher price often means better insulation and durability so you get more bang for your buck in the long run. Lighter colors will keep things cooler for longer and features like UV resistance and tie down slots will make your cooler a must have in your camping gear. Choose wisely and your cooler will be more than just a box it’ll be the foundation of your outdoor life.
Size Matters: Choosing the Right Cooler Capacity
Choosing the right size cooler is like choosing the right tent; it all depends on the length of your trip and the size of your crew. For the solo hiker or the couple on a day trip a 5-16 quart cooler is just enough to keep the essentials cold. Think of it as your portable fridge; small, lightweight and perfect for those quiet moments of solitude or intimate conversations by the campfire.
Upsize and a 17-35 quart cooler is the perfect size for small families or groups on weekend trips. It’s the sweet spot where capacity meets portability, so you have enough room for a weekend’s worth of snacks without feeling like you’re lugging a chest of drawers through the woods. And for those longer trips with a trusted friend or two a 40-70 quart cooler will get you through with ease, keeping your supplies fresh from day one to the last night under the stars
Don’t forget the bigger picture – for those big trips with a bigger crew or a week long stay in the wilderness you’ll want a large cooler, one that’s over 36 quarts. Just remember to measure twice; it needs to fit in your vehicle and be portable around the campsite, as the weight listed is when it’s empty. And always check the actual capacity because sometimes coolers, like the Yeti Tundra 45, hold less than you think. With the right size cooler every meal is a feast and no one goes thirsty.
Durability and Insulation: Investing in Longevity and Performance
The relationship between durability and insulation is where the real value of a camping cooler is revealed. A well insulated cooler like the ORCA 58 Quart or the Yeti Roadie 48 can keep your food and drinks below 40 degrees for over 6 days. It’s not just about ice retention it’s about preserving your catch, your meals and the joy of a cold drink after a long day of adventure.
A high quality cooler with better insulating foam has several benefits:
- Extends the life of your ice
- Extends the life of the cooler itself
- Insulation, structural strength and moisture resistance
- Won’t melt away from the sun’s rays or shrink away from campfire heat
- Adds an extra layer of safety and durability to your camping gear
Polyurethane foam with its high closed cell content has all of these benefits.
The practicality of a cooler with polyurethane insulation also extends to its environmental impact. With a higher R-value it reduces energy transfer making it a sustainable choice for the eco-conscious camper. And when you’re in the wild that matters. So whether you choose a cooler with a soft nose panel for an airtight seal like the RTIC 52 QT Ultra-Light or one with smart features and precise temperature control like the Dometic CFX3 45 remember you’re investing in a product that will stand the test of time and terrain.
Summary
We’ve traversed the forest of camping coolers from the rugged Engel MR040F to the classic Coleman Steel Belted and the perfect cooler is out there for you. It’s about matching your needs to the cooler’s size, durability for the rough trails and insulation to keep things just the way you like them. With the right cooler by your side the great outdoors becomes a little more welcoming and every trip is an adventure to remember. So pack up and get out there and let the wilderness be your playground.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will ice last in a high end cooler like the Yeti Tundra 45?
With the Yeti Tundra 45 you can expect your ice to last 10 days if you pre-cool the cooler and maintain the proper ice to contents ratio. So you can rely on it for extended ice retention.
Can I take my wheeled cooler on different terrain?
Yes you can take a wheeled cooler on different terrain but the durability of the wheels and the cooler’s construction will affect its performance. Just keep that in mind when you take it out!
Is a more expensive cooler worth it?
Yes a more expensive cooler is worth it if you camp often or spend extended time outdoors. It will have better insulation, durability and long term value.
Will a bigger cooler keep things colder for longer?
No a bigger cooler will not always keep things colder for longer. Insulation quality and how well the cooler is packed with ice are more important than just the size of the cooler. But bigger coolers do have more room for ice which can contribute to longer ice retention.
Can coolers be fridges?
Yes the Edgestar Fridge can be a fridge with temperature control. Perfect for RV camping or campsites with power.
