To find the best coolers for every need, we tested 48 models (including coolers with wheels and backpack-style soft coolers) in our Lab over three days. We evaluated each cooler based on its design, capacity, insulation, portability, durability, and overall value. For expert insight, we tapped Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s merchant Jesse Schulte. According to Schulte, “size and capacity, weight, and ice retention” are the most important factors to consider when shopping for a cooler. “To determine the size of the cooler you will need, first consider your activity—the practicality of bringing along a larger, heavier cooler or a smaller, more portable one,” says Schulte. Our top pick, the Lifetime 65-Quart High-Performance Cooler, proved to have impressive ice retention and durability in our testing, but at a much lower price than similar models. Here are the best coolers for beach days, camping trips, and more.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall Cooler: Lifetime 65-Quart High-Performance Cooler Best Budget Cooler: Coleman Chiller 48-Quart Cooler Best Splurge Cooler: Yeti Tundra 65 Hard Cooler Best Wheeled Cooler: Xspec 45-Quart Towable Rotomolded Cooler With Wheels Best Soft-Sided Cooler: Yeti Hopper M30 Soft Cooler Best Backpack Cooler: Yeti Hopper M20 Backpack Soft Cooler Best Small Cooler: Dometic Patrol 20 Best Large Cooler: ORCA 140-Quart Cooler Best Cooler for Camping: RTIC 52-Quart Ultra-Light Cooler Best Cooler for Beach: The Get Out Cooler Bag
Who it’s for: People who want a more affordable alternative to premium coolers for long weekends or camping trips. Who it isn’t for: People who want a portable cooler. Our top pick, the Lifetime 65-Quart High-Performance Cooler, has great ice retention and durability without the steep price that typically comes with more premium models. In our testing, we found that after 24 hours, the interior temperature only dropped 0.8 degrees Fahrenheit. The cans were still very cold (34.3 degrees Fahrenheit), and three-fourths of the ice remained unmelted, making this cooler well-suited for overnight trips. Testers found that this cooler could hold 101 cans without ice and 34 cans when filled 2/3 of the way with ice. We were particularly impressed with this cooler’s durability considering its price: Testers were able to sit on it comfortably without any buckling, and when pushed off a table (while filled to the brim with ice), the cooler didn’t open or withstand any damage. The Lifetime cooler comes equipped with two simple fasteners, rope handles, padlock holes (the lock is sold separately), two bottle openers, and a drain plug. Keep in mind that our testers found the cooler a bit awkward to lift using the rope handles. It’s also one of the heavier options on our list, so you’ll definitely need two people to lift it onto a truck bed or table. Anyone in the market for a portable cooler will want to look elsewhere—but otherwise, this cooler is a true workhorse that rivals much more expensive models in terms of durability and ice retention. Product Details:
Dimensions: 18.1 x 28.4 x 17.5 inches Capacity: 65 quarts Weight: 25.5 pounds
Price at time of publish: From $169 Who it’s for: People who want an entry-level cooler for short-term use. Who it isn’t for: People who need a cooler for overnight use or anyone who wants a cooler with a drain plug. This medium-capacity cooler from Coleman is one of the best deals out there given its price, quality, and durability. During our testing, about 50 percent of the ice was still frozen after 24 hours, and the temperature only increased by 1.8 degrees Fahrenheit. In our durability tests, the cooler was very sturdy and easy to sit on, and it didn’t suffer any damage after being pushed off a table while full of ice—although the lid opened, causing the contents to spill out. Based on these results, we think that it’s best for day trips or backyard gatherings. This cooler doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of more expensive models, such as a drain plug or bottle opener, although it does come with cup holders. Our testers also appreciated the classic side handles and the tight-fitting lid. Also worth noting: According to the manufacturer, the cooler is tall enough to accommodate a two-liter bottle standing upright. Compared to many of the coolers on our list, this pick is relatively lightweight and easy to lift. For the average person who simply needs a cooler for occasional use over the course of a day, the Coleman Chiller is an excellent value. Product Details:
Dimensions: 13.6 x 25.3 x 14.1 inches Capacity: 48 quarts Weight: 7.4 pounds
Price at time of publish: $60 Who it’s for: People willing to splurge on a high-end cooler that will give them years of use. Who it isn’t for: People who want a lightweight cooler and anyone who is not in a position to spend a lot on a cooler. The Yeti Tundra 65 Hard Cooler is made through a process known as rotomolding, which is when a mold is filled with molten plastic and rotated to achieve an even thickness. The result is a highly durable cooler with excellent ice retention. In our testing, the Tundra lived up to its promises, increasing in temperature by only 0.2 degrees Fahrenheit over 24 hours and not sustaining any damage other than a scratch after being pushed off a table while filled with ice. One drawback of rotomolded models is that they often don’t come with built-in bottle or cup holders, as is the case with the Tundra 65—although testers note that this does make it more comfortable to sit on and use as a tabletop when camping (and the brand notes that it doubles as a casting platform while fishing, too). Our testers also found the heavy-duty rubber latches to be secure, while the rope handles are easy to grip. Like all Yeti products, this cooler is available in several color options. At 29 pounds while empty, the cooler will require two people to lift it, and it will take up a fair amount of space in a vehicle. We think its size and ice retention make it suitable for a family of four to take over the weekend. While most people don’t need to spend this much on a cooler, the Yeti Tundra may be well worth the splurge for outdoor enthusiasts who need a cooler with serious lasting power. Product Details:
Dimensions: 17.3 x 30.6 x 16 inches Capacity: 65 quarts Weight: 29 pounds
RELATED: The 9 Best Hammocks for Lounging Outside Price at time of publish: $375 Who it’s for: People who want a durable cooler that’s easy to maneuver. Who it isn’t for: People who don’t need a heavy-duty cooler. In our testing, we were impressed with how the Xspec 45-Quart Towable Rotomolded Cooler With Wheels measured up against brands like Yeti and ORCA. Constructed with three inches of insulation, this cooler stayed cold enough to keep over 80 percent of the ice frozen after 24 hours. But where the Xspec cooler really stands out is its portability: It has an adjustable tow handle and eight-inch wheels, which glided over both concrete and grass in our testing. It also comes with grab handles if you prefer to use them for carrying it over short distances. Testers noted that it can get quite heavy to tow when at capacity, although the rolling mechanism certainly makes maneuvering it more feasible for one person. It’s also no surprise that this rotomolded cooler is a standout for its durability, too. It’s solid enough to sit on when shut and only suffered some slight scratching during our drop test. We also like that it comes with bottle openers and a drain plug. Overall, this is a well-built and reasonably priced cooler that comes with the added convenience of being able to wheel it when you don’t want to carry something heavy over long distances. Product Details:
Dimensions: 18 x 22 x 21 inches Capacity: 45 quarts Weight: 35 pounds
Price at time of publish: $240 Who it’s for: People who want a small cooler that’s easy to tote for a day trip. Who it isn’t for: People who want the longer ice-retention you get with a hard-sided cooler. Although hard-sided coolers are always going to win when it comes to ice retention, you don’t always want to lug them out for a simple beach outing. That’s where the Yeti Hopper M30 comes in. Testers found the capacity to be the perfect size for a 24-pack of cans, making it a great choice for a day trip with several people. It resembles a tote bag in design but has an extra-wide mouth that stays open while you load and unload it. We also like that it has a magnetic latch that seals it shut with a gentle push—no need to fumble with a zipper. In fact, the magnetic closure didn’t even open when we pushed the fully stocked cooler off a table, nor did it leak when we tipped it over. Our testers describe this cooler as effective and comfortable to carry, although we wish it came at a more reasonable price tag. But as is often the case with Yeti products, part of what you pay for is the brand reliability and premium quality, so we’re confident that should you choose to splurge, this soft-sided cooler will serve you well for many picnics to come. Product Details:
Dimensions: 12 x 25 x 17.5 inches Capacity: 28.8 quarts Weight: 7 pounds
Price at time of publish: $350 Who it’s for: People who want a soft-sided cooler that keeps their hands free to carry other gear. Who it isn’t for: People who don’t like carrying extra weight on their shoulders or backs. When going to and from the beach or park, a backpack cooler can keep your hands free to carry all your other gear for a family beach day or picnic at the park, such as lawn chairs, outdoor games, umbrellas—you name it. Unsurprisingly, the Yeti Hopper M20 Backpack Soft Cooler was a tester favorite. Using a 2:1 ice ratio, we found that the bag can comfortably fit nine cans. And like the Hopper M30 above, this cooler has a magnetic closure that keeps the cold air sealed in and the warm air out. It didn’t leak or open during our drop tests—even when tipped over and pushed off a table at full capacity. “Yeti does it again!” says one tester. If we have to complain, it would yet again be about the price, which is remarkably steep for a soft-sided cooler. Plus, testers do wish there was a little more padding on the backpack straps, so those with sensitive backs or shoulders may want to steer clear (or give it to someone else to carry). However, the reinforced stitching and high-density fabric ensure that this cooler will withstand the elements for years to come. Product Details:
Dimensions: 9.5 x 18.5 x 18.8 inches Capacity: 20.9 quarts Weight: 4.8 pounds
RELATED: The 8 Best Lawn Chairs for Relaxing Outdoors Price at time of publish: From $325 Who it’s for: People who want a compact hard-sided cooler for short excursions. Who it isn’t for: People who need to carry a cooler over long distances. Not everyone needs (or wants) a cooler with an extra-large capacity. In fact, a cooler that isn’t fully stocked allows for more airflow, which can lead to increased temperatures (meaning ice will melt and food may get below the safe temperature). For those who want a hard-sided cooler for its durability and ice retention but only need to carry a few things, we think this 20-quart cooler from Dometic is just right. In our testing, the rotomolded cooler had large chunks of ice still intact after 24 hours, with very little water. It didn’t leak when we tipped it on its side, although the rubber latches opened when we pushed it off a tabletop. This cooler is also comfortable enough for a small adult or child to sit on, and the rubber feet keep it firmly planted in place. The easy-grip stainless steel handle makes it easy for one person to carry when at full capacity—even for our petite tester. (Although if you’ll be carrying it over long distances, a wheeled or backpack cooler may be the better option.) Additionally, the cooler comes with a drain plug and a multi-use dock with a cup holder, bottle opener, and fishing rod holder. If you’re looking for more size options, the Dometic Patrol is available in 35-, 55-, 75-, and 105-quart options as well. Product Details:
Dimensions: 14 x 20.7 x 14.9 inches Capacity: 20 quarts Weight: 17.5 pounds
Price at time of publish: $170 Who it’s for: People who need an extra-large cooler, such as those transporting game meat or hosting backyard barbecues. Who it isn’t for: The average person will find the 140-quart capacity to be overkill and will be better off opting for a lower capacity model. If you’re transporting large game meat or hosting the biggest backyard barbecue of the summer, this massive, 140-quart rotomolded cooler will leave you wanting for nothing. The manufacturer notes that it can hold up to 192 cans, but we found it to hold 206 cans without ice and 68 cans with a 2:1 ice to can ratio. In our testing, the cooler’s interior temperature only increased by just under 1 degree Fahrenheit, and 75 percent of the ice remained frozen after 24 hours. Our testers found the latches to be a little difficult to use, although the cooler didn’t leak or open when tipped. It didn’t even scratch when pushed off the table—a testament to the durability of the material and the staying power of the latches. The ORCA 140-Quart Cooler also comes with a cargo net and a drain plug on each side. Plus, it’s available in a wide variety of colors, ranging from seafoam blue to bright orange. This is not the cooler to purchase if you’re going to be carrying it over long distances. Instead, this one should stay put in the back of the truck or garage and be brought out only when needed. It weighs a whopping 64 pounds when empty (and well over 100 pounds when full), so you’ll definitely need the assistance of another person to get this one from the garage to the backyard. If you’re not in the market for a cooler quite this large, but still want the durability and ice retention that comes with an ORCA cooler, the brand’s hard-sided coolers are available in a number of sizes, including 20-, 26-, 40-, and 58-quart options. Product Details:
Dimensions: 39 x 23 x 20 inches Capacity: 140 quarts Weight: 64 pounds
Price at time of publish: $500 Who it’s for: People who want a lightweight and less expensive alternative to Yeti or ORCA coolers. Who it isn’t for: People set on buying a rotomolded or soft-sided cooler. This hard-sided cooler looks strikingly similar to a Yeti, and its performance was nearly identical: After 24 hours, the internal temperature of the RTIC cooler had only increased by 0.4 degrees Fahrenheit. Testers note that the 52-quart capacity is just right for a weekend camping, fishing, or road trip. The brand claims that this model is 30 percent lighter than rotomolded coolers of the same capacity—just 21 pounds when empty. But this doesn’t mean it’s not durable: During testing, we found that it didn’t leak when tipped over and there wasn’t more than a scratch after it was pushed off the table while full. This lightweight design and long-term ice retention make it well-suited for camping trips, particularly if you have a long walk from the car to the campsite and back. But what’s especially impressive about this cooler is its price point: The RTIC 52-Quart Ultra-Light Cooler is more than $100 cheaper than similarly sized Yeti coolers. Given that it’s made with an injection molding process, this cooler’s long-term durability and ice retention may fall a little short of rotomolded models—though our testing suggests there may not be as big of a difference as the price would imply. Product Details:
Dimensions: 18 x 27 x 18 inches Capacity: 52 quarts Weight: 21 pounds
Price at time of publish: $220 Who it’s for: People who want a stylish, soft-sided cooler that can carry wine bottles. Who it isn’t for: People who want a cooler for overnight use. Style and function merge in this retro-inspired backpack cooler that is tall enough to fit a bottle of wine (up to six total!) for an afternoon at the beach or a picnic in the park. We found it to comfortably hold about 20 cans with no ice and seven cans with a 2:1 ratio of ice to cans. It didn’t compete with the other coolers on our list in terms of ice retention—after two hours, about two-thirds of the ice remained, and after 24 hours, all of the ice had melted. But to be fair, The Get Out only claims that its bag will keep cool for one day. Our testers found the backpack straps to be very comfortable, but the cooler bag also comes with handles on the side if you prefer to carry it that way. Although it doesn’t have magnetic closures like Yeti’s soft-sided coolers, we found the zipper closure to be very smooth. During our drop test, no ice came out of the bag and it didn’t scratch at all, either. Given its ice retention capabilities, we wouldn’t recommend this cooler bag for an overnight trip or a long day trip. But for an afternoon spent hiking or in the park with friends, this lightweight and stylish cooler will keep your hands free at all times. Product Details:
Dimensions: 10 x 17.2 x 16 inches Capacity: 30 quarts Weight: 6 pounds
RELATED: The 9 Best Beach Towels, According to Our Tests Price at time of publish: $250 For a more budget-friendly option, the Coleman Chiller 48-Quart Cooler is a nice entry-level cooler that can be used for most activities, including day trips, tailgating, and backyard barbecues.
Our Testing Process
We spent three days putting 48 different coolers through a series of tests, most of which were done outdoors with temperatures ranging from 80 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit (depending on the time of day) and humidity levels between 37 and 52 percent. Our testers first evaluated the design of each cooler by opening and closing it. They took note of the ease of use and functionality of the latches, zippers, magnets, and other closure systems. (We were particularly impressed with the easy-to-use magnetic closures of the Yeti Hopper M30 Soft Cooler and the Yeti Hopper M20 Backpack Soft Cooler.) Next, testers measured the capacity of the cooler by filling it with 12-ounce cans, first without ice and again with ice. We used a 2:1 ratio of ice to cans, so the cooler was 2/3 filled with ice and 1/3 filled with cans. Testers recorded how many cans the cooler can fit with and without ice, measured the temperature inside the cooler, and recorded how many pounds of ice were used. To evaluate the insulation, our testers opened each cooler after two hours and recorded the interior and surface temperature. (We found that the Yeti Tundra 65 Hard Cooler had the least temperature change, only increasing by 0.2 degrees Fahrenheit over 24 hours.) Using a slotted spoon, testers scooped out the remaining ice and placed it in a bucket on a scale to measure how much remained. We repeated this process after 24 hours. Then, our testers drained the water out of the cooler using the plug or other draining mechanism, when applicable. During this test, we looked for evidence of leaking by tipping the cooler on its hinge side and its opening side, leaving it on each for one minute. We also assessed any special features and accessories, such as built-in bottle openers, cup holders, or integrated Bluetooth speakers. Additionally, testers appraised the portability of each cooler by picking it up and placing it on a table to determine how easy it is to lift while full. We also performed the following tests based on the type of cooler:
For wheeled coolers: To assess the maneuverability of these coolers, testers pulled each wheeled cooler 20 feet, made a 180-degree turn, and pushed the cooler forward 20 feet. This test was completed on both grass and concrete surfaces.
For coolers with straps: Testers walked 20 feet while carrying the cooler on their back, taking note of any padding and the ability to make adjustments.
For large coolers: Testers sat on large coolers for five minutes to see if they were sturdy and comfortable enough to use as a seat.
Finally, we tested each cooler’s durability by filling it with ice and pushing it off a table and onto a concrete surface. We took note of whether it opened, cracked, or sustained any damage upon impact. Once our testers completed the above steps, they checked the retail price of each cooler and scored its overall value.
How to Shop for Coolers Like a Pro
Capacity
Before you start shopping, consider how you plan to use your cooler. “Count the number of people who need to utilize the cooler and evaluate how long you will be gone without access to ice,” says Schulte. The coolers on our list range in capacity from 20 to 140 quarts—the former is ideal for day trips, while the latter is best reserved for professional or semi-professional outdoorsmen (such as hunters transporting game meat). It’s best to pack your cooler tightly because too much air allows the temperature to rise more quickly. That’s why it’s important to look for a cooler that’s large enough for you and your family, but not so big that you won’t be able to fill it up all the way. Some companies measure the capacity of their cooler by the number of 12-ounce cans it can hold. According to Bass Pro Shops, 1 quart equates to roughly 0.75 cans—but keep in mind that this calculation doesn’t leave room for ice or cold packs, so you’ll have to factor that in as well. Some people may choose to pack in more cans, while others may choose to use more ice for extended cooling (we used a 2:1 ice-to-can ratio in our testing). Refer to the chart below for general guidelines on the different cooler sizes out there: But if you plan to take your cooler on the go, say on a camping trip, boat ride, or beach day, you may want to consider a cooler with more efficient carrying mechanisms. You can find larger coolers with wheels for added portability, as well as smaller coolers with backpack straps that allow them to go wherever you go. Be sure to consider size, too: An extra-large cooler may take up too much space in the car, and some may not fit in the car at all.
Hard-Sided vs. Soft-Sided
Both hard-sided and soft-sided coolers come with advantages and drawbacks. Hard-sided coolers have longer ice retention (more on this below) and are more durable. They’re also heavier and usually come with a higher price tag. Soft-sided coolers, on the other hand, are lightweight and easy to carry, especially since they often come with straps. However, they don’t have the same ice retention as hard coolers and are therefore better suited for day trips or picnics.
Ice Retention
This simply refers to how long a cooler can keep ice frozen. Manufacturers make bold claims, from 24 hours to as long as two weeks. But these claims usually come with stipulations, such as pre-chilling the cooler, using extra ice, not opening the cooler, etc. Ice retention can also be affected by external factors such as the air temperature and the amount of sunlight, and there’s no way to know what conditions the manufacturers tested their products in. So take these claims with a grain of salt—the ice in your cooler is bound to melt faster during real-world use. If you need extra-long ice retention for extended use, look for rotomolded coolers. Made using a specific manufacturing process, these coolers are more durable and keep ice frozen for much longer.
Price
You can easily shell out several hundred dollars for a top-of-the-line cooler, which may or may not be justified depending on your needs. The coolers in our testing range in price from $35 to $580, with a median of $173. Hard-sided, rotomolded coolers, such as those from Yeti and ORCA, tend to come with the highest price tags and the longest ice retention. They also tend to be more durable and come with longer warranties. That being said, if you don’t need a cooler for multi-day use, paying that much for a premium cooler may not make sense. Our best overall pick, Lifetime’s 65-Quart High-Performance Cooler, falls just shy of that median price—proving you don’t necessarily need to spend top dollar for a quality cooler.
More Coolers to Consider
Pelican 95-Quart Elite Cooler: In our testing, this large-capacity cooler had excellent ice retention—enough to last for several days. However, it lost points because it did leak a fair amount when tipped on its side, and it’s rather expensive when compared to similar models. Ozark Trail 45-Quart High-Performance Rolling Thermocooler: This is another great wheeled cooler that’s less expensive than the Xspec 45-Quart Towable Rotomolded Cooler With Wheels, though it didn’t have quite the same ice retention.
Questions You Might Ask
How do coolers stay cold?
“Insulation partnered with ice are the keys to keeping your food and drinks cold,” says Schulte. The ice keeps the inside of your cooler nice and chilly, while the insulated walls slow down convection—the process by which hot air travels around a space and causes the temperature to increase. Insulation also slows down the process of thermal conduction, which is when heat travels from one object to another. But keep in mind that each time the cooler is opened, warm air can find its way inside.
How should you pack a cooler to keep it cold for longer?
For best results, start by pre-chilling the food and drinks you plan to store in your cooler. Be sure to pack your cooler as full as possible, because too much air can cause the interior temperature to rise. (Tip: You can use frozen water bottles to fill up empty spaces in your cooler.) Add ice last—cool air travels down, so putting the ice on top will keep the entire cooler cold. Schultes suggests layering using ice blocks rather than ice cubes, as blocks will melt slower. During use, be sure to store the cooler out of the sun and keep the lid closed as much as possible when not actively removing or loading items.
Take Our Word for It
This article was written by Melanie Fincher, associate commerce editor for Real Simple with three years of experience writing product reviews and lifestyle content. To compile this list, we tested 48 coolers in our Lab and evaluated them based on design, capacity, insulation, portability, durability, and overall value. For expert tips on what to look for in a cooler, we tapped Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s merchant Jesse Schulte.
What Is Real Simple Selects?
Next to each product on this list, you may have noticed a Real Simple Selects seal of approval. Any product appearing alongside that seal has been vetted by our team—put through tests and graded on its performance to earn a spot on our list. Although we buy most of the products we test, sometimes we do get samples from companies if purchasing a product ourselves isn’t an option. If that’s the case, we test the product just like we test anything we buy, but we also disclose that we received it for free to be as transparent with you as possible. Love our recommendations? Check out more products that have earned the Real Simple Selects, from humidifiers to cordless vacuums.
