The 8 Best Coolers, Reviewed and Tested

Best Budget Cooler

This medium-sized cooler from Coleman offers great value for its price, build quality, and durability. During our tests, half of the ice stayed frozen after 24 hours, and the temperature only rose by 1.8°F. We find this cooler ideal for short trips or backyard parties.

In durability tests, the cooler proved to be sturdy and comfortable to sit on. It remained undamaged after being tipped over while filled with ice—though the lid popped open and caused a spill. After six months of use, including exposure to heavy rain and snow, it still shows no signs of wear.

While this cooler may not feature all the premium extras of higher-end models, like a drain plug or bottle opener, it does offer convenient cup holders. We also liked the sturdy side handles and the reliable, snug-fitting lid. According to the manufacturer, it’s tall enough to hold a two-liter bottle standing up. Compared to many other coolers in our selection, this one is relatively lightweight and easy to lift. For the average user who only needs a cooler for occasional day trips, the Coleman Chiller is a fantastic choice for the price.

Dimensions: 25.25 x 13.6 x 14.1 inches | Capacity: 48 quarts | Weight: 8.1 pounds

Best Splurge Cooler

The Yeti Tundra 65 Hard Cooler is crafted using rotomolding, a process in which molten plastic is poured into a mold and rotated to create an even thickness. The outcome is a tough cooler with outstanding ice retention. Our tests showed the Tundra kept its cool, with the temperature rising by only 0.2 degrees Fahrenheit after 24 hours, and it sustained no damage beyond a minor scratch when pushed off a table while full of ice. Even after six months of heavy use, it continues to perform like new.

During our testing, we found that the sturdy rubber latches held securely, and the rope handles were comfortable to grip. A downside of rotomolded coolers is that they typically don’t feature built-in bottle or cup holders, which is true for the Tundra 65. However, we found this absence made it more comfortable to sit on and use as a tabletop during camping. Additionally, the brand mentions that it can also serve as a casting platform when fishing. As with all Yeti products, this cooler is available in a variety of colors.

Weighing in at 30.3 pounds when empty, this cooler is best handled by two people, and it does take up quite a bit of space in a vehicle. Given its size and excellent ice retention, it’s ideal for a family of four on a weekend trip. While it’s not necessary for most people to invest this much in a cooler, the Yeti Tundra could be a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a cooler with exceptional durability and longevity.

Dimensions: 30.8 x 17.3 x 16 inches | Capacity: 65 quarts | Weight: 30.3 pounds

Best Wheeled Cooler

In our tests, the Xspec 45-Quart Towable Rotomolded Cooler With Wheels proved to be a tough competitor against top brands like Yeti and Orca. Featuring three inches of insulation, it kept more than 80% of its ice frozen after 24 hours.

The real highlight of this cooler is its portability: equipped with an adjustable tow handle and eight-inch wheels, it smoothly rolled over concrete and grass during our tests. It also offers grab handles for short-distance carrying. However, when fully packed, it can get quite heavy to tow. Despite that, the rolling feature makes it manageable for one person, and it’s roomy enough to accommodate drinks for an entire group while still being portable.

It's clear that this rotomolded cooler is a top contender when it comes to durability. It's sturdy enough to sit on when closed, and during our drop test, it only showed minor scratches. After three months of use, the cooler’s latches, wheels, and insulation were still in excellent condition. We also appreciated the inclusion of bottle openers and a drain plug. Overall, this cooler offers great value for its price, combining solid construction with the convenience of wheels for easy transport over long distances.

Dimensions: 22 x 18 x 21 inches | Capacity: 45 quarts | Weight: 35 pounds

Best Soft-Sided Cooler

We found this cooler to be the perfect size—spacious enough to store a decent number of drinks yet compact enough not to take up excessive space. During our tests, it held 60 cans without ice and 20 cans with a 2:1 ice-to-can ratio. We were impressed with its insulation, as the temperature only dropped by 0.3 degrees Fahrenheit over a 24-hour period. After a day, approximately 41% of the ice remained. Additionally, a suction feature lets you remove excess air to help keep your drinks cool.

During our testing, we were particularly impressed by how secure the cooler felt. Made with a durable, waterproof exterior, it features a highly secure zipper designed to prevent leaks, along with a drainage plug. The interior felt almost sealed shut, ensuring it stayed leak-proof and kept everything cool. While the water-tight zipper could be tough to manage, it comes with lubricant to ensure it operates smoothly. With its thoughtful design and outstanding durability, this cooler held up well after three months of use, leaving us with no issues.

Thanks to its spacious capacity, the cooler can become a bit heavy when carrying it over long distances. However, it comes with a removable shoulder strap, as well as top and side handles for added convenience. We also found it to be sleeker and less bulky compared to some other coolers on our list. Leak-proof, portable, and versatile, this cooler is a great choice for those needing a convenient, on-the-go option.

Dimensions: 20.5 x 9.5 x 17 inches | Capacity: 32 quarts | Weight: 5.25 pounds

Top Backpack Cooler

Combining style and practicality, this vintage-inspired backpack cooler is tall enough to accommodate a bottle of wine (up to six!) for a beach day or park picnic. We found it comfortably fits around 20 cans without ice, and seven cans with a 2:1 ice-to-can ratio. While it didn't perform as well as other coolers on our list for ice retention—two-thirds of the ice remained after two hours, and all of it melted after 24 hours—it’s important to note that The Get Out cooler is only advertised to keep things cool for one day.

We found the backpack straps to be very comfortable, though the cooler bag also features side handles for an alternative carrying option. While it doesn’t have the magnetic closures found in Yeti’s soft-sided coolers, the zipper closure is notably smooth. During our drop test, no ice spilled from the bag, and there were no scratches either.

Considering its ice retention performance, we wouldn’t recommend this cooler for overnight trips or full-day outings at the beach. However, it makes a great smaller option for an afternoon of hiking or a picnic in the park with friends. Lightweight and fashionable, this cooler ensures your hands stay free at all times.

Dimensions: 17.15 x 10 x 16 inches | Capacity: Not listed | Weight: Not listed

Best Large Cooler

For those hauling large game meat or hosting the biggest summer barbecue, this enormous 140-quart rotomolded cooler is perfect. The manufacturer claims it holds up to 192 cans, but we found it holds 206 cans without ice and 68 cans with a 2:1 ice-to-can ratio. In our tests, the temperature inside only rose by 0.9°F, with 75% of the ice remaining after 24 hours.

We found the latches a bit tricky to operate. However, the cooler didn’t leak or open when tipped, and it didn’t scratch when pushed off the table, showcasing the durability of both the material and the latches. After six months of use, the cooler has continued to keep our drinks ice-cold, with no signs of deterioration. The Orca 140-Quart Cooler also includes a cargo net and a drain plug on each side. Additionally, it’s offered in a wide range of colors, from seafoam blue to bright orange.

This cooler isn’t ideal for long-distance transport. Instead, it’s best left in the back of the truck or in the garage, only being used when needed. It weighs a hefty 64 pounds when empty (and over 100 pounds when full), so you’ll need a second person to help move it from the garage to the backyard. Nevertheless, we value its large capacity, which allows us to keep all our drinks in one cooler instead of storing some in the refrigerator.

If you’re not looking for a cooler this large but still want the same durability and ice retention offered by an Orca, the brand also offers hard-sided coolers in various sizes, including 20-, 26-, 40-, and 58-quart options. While we wouldn’t recommend this cooler for portable use, it works perfectly as a reliable garage cooler.

Dimensions: 39.44 x 23 x 21.38 inches | Capacity: 140 quarts | Weight: 64 pounds

Top Cooler for Camping

The Lifetime 65-Quart High-Performance Cooler offers excellent ice retention and sturdiness, all at a more affordable price compared to premium alternatives. In our tests, we saw only a 0.8-degree Fahrenheit drop in temperature after 24 hours. Additionally, the can temperature was measured at 34.3 degrees Fahrenheit, with 75% of the ice still intact, making it an excellent choice for overnight trips. We were impressed by the cooler's large capacity, capable of holding 101 cans without ice and 34 cans when filled two-thirds of the way with ice. This cooler is perfect for long weekend escapes and summer camping excursions.

We were especially impressed by the durability of this cooler, given its price. We were able to sit on it without any issues, and even when it was filled to the brim with ice and pushed off a table, the cooler stayed intact without any damage. After six months of use, the quality remains unchanged—the clasps are still secure, the hinges still operate smoothly, and the drain continues to be leak-proof.

The Lifetime cooler is equipped with two straightforward fasteners, rope handles, padlock holes (lock sold separately), two bottle openers, and a drain plug. While we found it a bit challenging to lift using the rope handles and noted that it’s one of the heavier coolers on our list, requiring two people to move it, it's still a reliable workhorse. This cooler may not be the best option for portability, but for durability and ice retention, it competes with much pricier models.

Dimensions: 28.4 x 18.1 x 17.5 inches | Capacity: 65 quarts | Weight: 25.5 pounds

Final Assessment

Our top choice, the RTIC 52-Quart Ultra-Light Cooler, impressed us during testing with its exceptional insulation and leak-proof design. Even more remarkable is how it competes with some of the priciest coolers on the market.

For those seeking a more affordable option, the Coleman Chiller 48-Quart Cooler offers great value as an entry-level cooler, perfect for activities like day trips, tailgating, and backyard cookouts.

Our Evaluation Process

We dedicated three days to testing 48 different coolers, conducting most of the trials outdoors under conditions with temperatures varying between 80 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit (depending on the time of day), and humidity levels ranging from 37% to 52%.

To start, we examined the design of each cooler by opening and closing it, paying attention to the usability and functionality of the latches, zippers, magnets, and other closure mechanisms. We then assessed the capacity by filling the coolers with 12-ounce cans, once without ice and once with ice. Using a 2:1 ice-to-can ratio, we filled the cooler 2/3 with ice and 1/3 with cans. We documented how many cans fit with and without ice, measured the internal temperature, and noted the pounds of ice used.

For insulation testing, we opened each cooler after two hours and recorded both the internal and external temperatures. (The Yeti Tundra 65 Hard Cooler showed the least temperature variation, only rising by 0.2 degrees Fahrenheit over a 24-hour period.) Using a slotted spoon, we extracted the remaining ice and weighed it in a bucket to determine how much was left. This process was repeated after 24 hours.

Next, we drained the cooler using the plug or other drainage system, when available. We tipped the cooler on both its hinge and opening sides for one minute, checking for leaks. We also evaluated additional features and accessories like built-in bottle openers, cup holders, or integrated Bluetooth speakers. To test portability, we lifted each cooler while full and placed it on a table to assess how easy it was to lift. We also conducted tests tailored to the specific type of cooler.

• For coolers with wheels: To evaluate the ease of movement, we pulled each wheeled cooler for 20 feet, made a 180-degree turn, and then pushed it forward for another 20 feet. This test was performed on both grass and concrete surfaces.
• For coolers with straps: We walked 20 feet carrying the cooler on our back, noting the comfort of any padding and the ease of adjusting the straps.
• For larger coolers: We sat on the large coolers for five minutes to assess their stability and comfort as a seat.

To test each cooler's durability, we filled it with ice, then pushed it off a table onto a concrete surface. We observed if the cooler opened, cracked, or sustained any damage upon impact. After completing these tests, we checked the retail price of each cooler and evaluated its overall value.

After the initial three-day testing phase, we took the highest-performing coolers home with us. We continued to test their durability after one month, three months, and six months of use. Combining our initial results with the long-term data, we compiled a list of the top eight coolers available on the market.

Mastering Cooler Shopping: A Pro's Guide

Cooler Capacity

Before you begin your cooler hunt, think about how you'll use it. As Schulte suggests, "Consider how many people will rely on the cooler and how long you'll be without access to ice."

Our selection of coolers spans from 20 to 140 quarts—smaller sizes are ideal for day trips, while larger models are meant for serious outdoor enthusiasts, like hunters transporting game. It's crucial to pack your cooler efficiently, as too much empty space causes the temperature to rise faster. Look for a cooler that's big enough to fit your needs, but not so large that you can't fill it fully.

Some brands measure cooler capacity by the number of 12-ounce cans it can hold. According to Bass Pro Shops, 1 quart equals roughly 0.75 cans. However, this doesn’t account for ice or cold packs, which you must factor in. Some prefer to pack more cans, while others opt for additional ice for better cooling (we used a 2:1 ice-to-can ratio in our tests). Check the chart below for an overview of cooler sizes:

Portability Matters

When selecting the ideal cooler for your needs, think about how you'll transport it. If you're simply moving it from the house to the backyard for a barbecue, a standard cooler with grab handles will suffice (although you may need a helping hand, depending on the cooler’s size).

However, if your cooler needs to travel with you—whether on a camping trip, boat ride, or day at the beach—you might want a cooler equipped with better carrying options. Larger coolers often come with wheels for easy mobility, while smaller ones can have backpack straps, making them portable wherever you go. Keep in mind the size: oversized coolers can take up too much room in your car, or may not fit at all.

Hard-Sided vs. Soft-Sided Coolers

Both hard-sided and soft-sided coolers offer their own sets of benefits and drawbacks. Hard-sided coolers excel at keeping ice longer (we’ll get into this later) and are built to last. However, they tend to be heavier and come with a steeper price tag. Soft-sided coolers are lighter, easier to carry, and often come with convenient straps. The trade-off is less ice retention, which makes them better suited for shorter outings like day trips or picnics. Some coolers are even designed to double as or fit into personal shopping carts for added convenience.

Ice Retention

This refers to the amount of time a cooler can keep ice frozen. Brands often boast about ice retention, claiming it lasts anywhere from 24 hours to two weeks. However, these claims typically come with certain conditions, like pre-chilling the cooler, using additional ice, and keeping the cooler closed as much as possible.

External factors, such as the surrounding air temperature and direct sunlight, also play a role in ice retention. Since you can't be sure about the conditions manufacturers used during testing, take these claims with a grain of salt—real-world conditions will cause your ice to melt faster. If you need ice to last longer, look for rotomolded coolers. These coolers, produced through a special process, offer enhanced durability and extended ice retention.

Price

High-end coolers can cost you several hundred dollars, and whether that price is justified depends on your needs. In our testing, coolers ranged from $40 to $600, with an average price of $243. High-end, rotomolded models like Yeti and ORCA coolers typically command the highest prices, offering superior ice retention, durability, and extended warranties.

If you don’t plan on using a cooler for extended periods, splurging on a high-end model may not be necessary. Our top overall pick, the RTIC 52-Quart Ultra-Light Cooler, is priced below the median, showing that you don’t always need to spend a lot to get a great cooler.

More Coolers to Consider

Xspec 60-Quart Rotomolded Cooler: In our tests, this cooler excelled in insulation, maintaining a consistent internal temperature for 24 hours. Its large drain made emptying it a breeze. However, it’s a bit heavy and lacks wheels, which could make transporting it solo a challenge.

Pelican 20-Quart Elite Cooler: This cooler is built to last and easy to carry, with an indent that lets it rest comfortably against your hip. It also holds more cans than you’d expect from the manufacturer’s description. However, its oddly shaped interior made stacking square and rectangular items somewhat tricky.

Questions You Might Ask

How do coolers keep things cold?

"The combination of insulation and ice is what ensures your food and drinks stay cold," explains Schulte. The ice chills the interior of your cooler, while the insulated walls reduce convection—the process in which hot air moves and raises the temperature. Insulation also curbs thermal conduction, which happens when heat transfers between objects. However, be aware that each time the cooler is opened, warm air can enter.

How should you pack a cooler to extend its coldness?

For optimal performance, begin by pre-chilling the items you intend to store in the cooler. Make sure the cooler is packed as fully as possible, as extra air can raise the internal temperature. (Tip: Frozen water bottles can help fill up unused space in the cooler.) Always add ice last—cool air sinks, so placing ice on top will ensure the cooler stays cold throughout.

Schulte recommends using ice blocks rather than ice cubes, as blocks melt much slower. When in use, keep the cooler out of direct sunlight and try to keep the lid closed as much as possible to maintain the cold when you're not actively adding or removing items.

Trust Us on This

This article was authored by Melanie Fincher and updated by Jamie Fischer, a writer for Mytour. To create this list, we thoroughly tested 48 coolers in our Lab, evaluating them on factors such as design, capacity, insulation, portability, durability, and overall value. For professional advice on what to consider when choosing a cooler, we consulted Jesse Schulte, a merchant from Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s.