Best Camping Cooler: Top Picks for Keeping Your Food and Drinks Cold

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Camping is a great way to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy the great outdoors. Whether you’re camping with family or friends, one of the most important things you need is a cooler to keep your food and drinks cold. However, not all coolers are created equal, and when you’re camping, you need a cooler that can keep your food and drinks cold for several days without the need for constant ice refills.

The best camping cooler is designed to withstand the rigors of the outdoors and keep your food and drinks at a safe temperature. When choosing a camping cooler, it’s important to consider factors such as size, insulation, and durability. The size of the cooler you need will depend on how many people you’re camping with and how long you’ll be camping. Insulation is also important, as it will determine how long your food and drinks will stay cold. Finally, durability is key, as you don’t want your cooler to break or leak during your trip.

One critical factor to consider when choosing a camping cooler is the type of insulation. There are two main types of insulation: foam and vacuum-sealed. Foam insulation is the most common and is made of closed-cell foam that is sandwiched between the cooler’s walls. Vacuum-sealed insulation, on the other hand, uses a vacuum to create a barrier between the inside and outside of the cooler. This type of insulation is more effective at keeping your food and drinks cold, but it can also be more expensive.

After researching and testing several camping coolers, we’ve identified the top options for keeping your food and drinks cold during your next camping trip.

Best Camping Coolers

When it comes to camping, having a reliable cooler to keep your food and drinks fresh is essential. Whether you’re planning a weekend camping trip or a longer adventure, a good cooler can make all the difference. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best camping coolers on the market to help you find the perfect one for your needs. These coolers are durable, well-insulated, and designed to keep your food and drinks cold for as long as possible, so you can enjoy your time in the great outdoors without worrying about spoiled food or warm drinks.

Igloo BMX 52 Quart Cooler with Cool Riser Technology Green/Orange Cooler

If you’re looking for a durable and lightweight cooler that can keep your ice frozen for days, the Igloo BMX 52 Quart Cooler with Cool Riser Technology might be the perfect choice for your next camping trip.

Pros

• The unique t-grip latch system ensures that the cooler stays securely closed, preventing any cold air from escaping.
• The heavy-duty construction of the cooler makes it incredibly durable and resistant to damage.
• Despite its large size, the BMX 52 Quart Cooler is surprisingly lightweight, making it easy to transport.

Cons

• The cooler’s size might be a bit too large for some users, making it difficult to store or transport.
• The cooler’s design might not be to everyone’s taste, as it has a distinctive green and orange color scheme.
• The cooler’s price point might be a bit high for some users, as it is more expensive than some comparable models.

The Igloo BMX 52 Quart Cooler is a great choice for anyone who needs a durable and reliable cooler that can keep their ice frozen for days. With its unique t-grip latch system, heavy-duty construction, and lightweight design, this cooler is perfect for camping, fishing, tailgating, beach trips, and other outdoor activities.

The cooler’s large size might make it difficult to store or transport, but it is still a great choice for anyone who needs to keep a lot of food and drinks cold. Additionally, the cooler’s distinctive green and orange color scheme might not be to everyone’s taste, but it is still a great-looking cooler that is sure to turn heads.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality cooler that can keep your food and drinks cold for days, the Igloo BMX 52 Quart Cooler is definitely worth considering.

Coleman 316 Series Insulated Portable Cooler

If you’re looking for a reliable camping cooler that can keep your food and drinks cold for days, then the Coleman 316 Series Insulated Portable Cooler is a great option.

Pros

• The TempLock FX Insulation throughout delivers multiday ice retention.
• The 316 Series is made with 15% less plastic than comparable Coleman coolers.
• The tethered drainplug resists leaks and won’t get lost.

Cons

• The cooler is quite heavy, especially when fully loaded.
• The price is a bit steep compared to other camping coolers on the market.
• The large size may make it difficult to store in smaller vehicles.

This cooler is perfect for those who need to keep their food and drinks cold for an extended period of time. The TempLock FX Insulation ensures that your ice will last for days, even in hot weather. The 316 Series is also made with 15% less plastic than comparable Coleman coolers, making it a more eco-friendly option.

One downside of this cooler is its weight. When fully loaded, it can be quite heavy and difficult to carry. Additionally, the price is a bit steep compared to other camping coolers on the market. However, if you’re willing to invest in a high-quality cooler that will last for years, then the Coleman 316 Series Insulated Portable Cooler is a great option.

Overall, if you’re in need of a reliable camping cooler that can keep your food and drinks cold for days, then the Coleman 316 Series Insulated Portable Cooler is definitely worth considering.

Coleman 316 Series Insulated Portable Cooler Rock Grey 100qt

If you’re looking for a durable and spacious camping cooler, the Coleman 316 Series Insulated Portable Cooler is a great choice.

Pros

• The lid and body are fully insulated, keeping ice up to 5 days in temperatures as high as 90°F.
• The heavy-duty 6-inch wheels and durable tow & swing-up handles make it easy to transport.
• The molded cup holders with drain on the lid keep drinks from spilling, and can fit up to a 30-oz. tumbler.

Cons

• The lid doesn’t stay locked down and continuously pops up, which can be frustrating.
• The wheels could be slightly larger for smoother rolling on rough terrain.
• The lid supports up to 250 lbs., but it’s not very comfortable to sit on for extended periods of time.

The Coleman 316 Series Insulated Portable Cooler is a reliable and spacious cooler that can hold up to 160 cans. The stain-resistant liner makes it easy to clean, and the leakproof channel drain plug prevents any messes. The recessed lip on the lid makes it easy to access the contents, and the have-a-seat lid is a nice feature for when you need a quick break.

Overall, if you’re in need of a cooler that can keep your food and drinks cold for several days, the Coleman 316 Series Insulated Portable Cooler is a solid choice.

YOUNGOA Cooler Bag

If you’re looking for a lightweight, leak-proof cooler bag with a large capacity, the YOUNGOA Cooler Bag is a great option.

Pros

• With a volume of 32L, this cooler bag can hold up to 48 cans of your favorite drink.
• The high-density insulating and waterproof materials of the main compartment ensure that your food and drinks stay cool for up to 12 hours.
• The inner lining is made of high-density and waterproof PEVA material, which is easy to clean.

Cons

• The shoulder strap could be more comfortable for extended carrying.
• The front pocket is a bit small for larger items.
• The bag is not as durable as some other options on the market.

The YOUNGOA Cooler Bag is perfect for picnics, camping, and hiking. The bag is made of firm and wear-resistant high-density Oxford cloth and checked cloth, making it highly durable and not easy to tear. The cooler bag is designed with a padded handle and a detachable shoulder strap, providing various carrying options. You can choose to carry it by hand or on your shoulder. It also comes equipped with a front pocket and two mesh pockets for easy storage of items.

The cooler bag is 100% leak-proof, so you won’t have to worry about any leaks or spills. The bag is easy to clean, and you can fold it up easily and save space when not in use. The YOUNGOA Cooler Bag is a versatile and convenient option for any outdoor adventure.

Igloo Polar 120 Qt. Cooler White 120 Qt

If you are looking for a large cooler that can keep your food and drinks cold for up to five days, the Igloo Polar 120 Qt. Cooler White 120 Qt is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The Ultratherm insulated body and lid can keep ice for up to five days at 90 degrees Fahrenheit, making it perfect for extended camping trips.
• The reinforced swing-up handles with tie-down loop feature make it easy to carry and secure the cooler to your vehicle.
• The dual snap-fit latches secure the lid closure, ensuring that your food and drinks stay cold.

Cons

• The cooler is quite heavy when full, making it difficult for one person to carry.
• The width of the cooler makes it challenging for one person to carry, requiring two people to lift it.
• The size of the cooler may be too large for some users.

This cooler is perfect for anyone who needs to keep their food and drinks cold for an extended period. The Ultratherm insulated body and lid can keep ice for up to five days at 90 degrees Fahrenheit, making it perfect for extended camping trips. The reinforced swing-up handles with tie-down loop feature make it easy to carry and secure the cooler to your vehicle. The dual snap-fit latches secure the lid closure, ensuring that your food and drinks stay cold.

If you are planning a camping trip, this cooler is an excellent choice. It has a 188-can capacity, making it perfect for large groups. The exterior dimensions are 38.31″ L x 17.38″ W x 17.75″ D, with the top measuring 34.69 x 14.88 x 13.25 inches and the bottom measuring 33 x 13.25 x 13.25 inches.

The threaded drain plug makes it easy to hook up a hose for easy draining. The drain plug is also easy to remove for quick access to the contents of the cooler. The cooler is made of high-quality plastic, making it durable and long-lasting.

Overall, the Igloo Polar 120 Qt. Cooler White 120 Qt is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a large cooler that can keep their food and drinks cold for an extended period. Whether you are planning a camping trip or a large outdoor event, this cooler is sure to meet your needs.

Lifetime 65 Quart High Performance Hard Cooler

If you’re looking for a durable and efficient camping cooler, the Lifetime 65 Quart High Performance Hard Cooler is a great option.

Pros

• Bear-resistant certified by the IGBC
• Up to 8-day ice retention
• Easy-to-drain spout with garden hose compatibility

Cons

• Heavy at 25.5 lbs
• No wheels for easy transportation
• Pricey compared to some other options

The Lifetime 65 Quart High Performance Hard Cooler is perfect for camping trips, beach days, and outdoor adventures. It’s bear-resistant certified by the IGBC, so you can be sure your food and drinks are safe from wildlife. The cooler also has up to 8-day ice retention, which is impressive and exceeds most premium priced coolers. Additionally, the easy-to-drain spout with garden hose compatibility is a convenient feature.

However, the cooler is quite heavy at 25.5 lbs, making it difficult to transport without wheels. It’s also a bit pricey compared to some other options on the market. But if you’re willing to invest in a high-quality cooler, the Lifetime 65 Quart High Performance Hard Cooler is a great choice.

Overall, if you’re looking for a durable and efficient camping cooler, the Lifetime 65 Quart High Performance Hard Cooler is definitely worth considering.

Coleman Cooler

If you’re looking for a cooler for your camping trip, the Coleman Cooler is a solid choice.

Pros

• The charming retro design gives it a unique look.
• The 54-quart capacity can accommodate up to 85 cans and the Have-a-Seat Lid supports up to 250 pounds.
• The Keeps the Ice insulation offers 4-day ice retention in temperatures as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

Cons

• The rust-resistant stainless steel hardware may not last as long as advertised.
• The comfort-grip steel handles may not be as comfortable as advertised.
• The green color may not be to everyone’s liking.

I recently took the Coleman Cooler on a camping trip and was impressed by its performance. The retro design is a nice touch and the 54-quart capacity was more than enough to hold all of our food and drinks. The Have-a-Seat Lid was also a great feature, as it provided extra seating when we needed it.

The Keeps the Ice insulation worked well, keeping our food and drinks cold for the entire trip. The rust-resistant stainless steel hardware also held up well, although I’m not sure how long it will last. The comfort-grip steel handles were easy to use, although they weren’t as comfortable as I had hoped.

Overall, if you’re looking for a solid camping cooler, the Coleman Cooler is definitely worth considering. It may not be perfect, but it gets the job done and has some nice features that make it stand out from the competition.

Buying Guide for Best Camping Cooler

When looking for the best camping cooler, there are a few key features to consider to ensure you get a product that meets your needs. Here are some factors to consider when making your purchase:

Size and Capacity

The size and capacity of the cooler are important factors to consider. Think about how many people you will be camping with and how long you will be camping for. A larger group or longer trip will require a cooler with a larger capacity.

Insulation

Insulation is another important factor to consider when choosing a camping cooler. Look for a cooler with thick walls and a tight-fitting lid to keep the contents cold for longer periods. Some coolers also come with additional insulation features, such as foam or gel packs, to help keep the contents cold.

Durability

Camping coolers need to be durable enough to withstand the rigors of the outdoors. Look for coolers made from high-quality materials, such as rotomolded plastic or stainless steel, that can withstand bumps, scratches, and other wear and tear.

Portability

Portability is also an important consideration when choosing a camping cooler. Look for a cooler with sturdy handles or straps that make it easy to carry, as well as wheels if you plan on rolling it over longer distances.

Additional Features

Finally, consider any additional features that may be important to you, such as built-in bottle openers, cup holders, or drainage systems. These features can make your camping experience more enjoyable and convenient.

In summary, when choosing a camping cooler, consider the size and capacity, insulation, durability, portability, and any additional features that may be important to you. By keeping these factors in mind, you can find the perfect cooler for your next outdoor adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Camping Cooler

What is the best cooler to take camping?

The best cooler to take camping is the one that suits your needs. If you’re going on a short trip, a smaller cooler may work just fine. If you’re going on a longer trip, a larger cooler may be necessary. Look for a cooler that is durable, has good insulation, and is easy to transport.

What is better than Yeti?

There are several coolers on the market that are comparable to Yeti in terms of quality and performance. Some of the top brands include Pelican, Engel, and Orca. However, the best cooler for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Is RTIC just as good as Yeti?

RTIC coolers are often compared to Yeti coolers because they are similar in design and performance. While Yeti coolers are generally considered to be of higher quality, RTIC coolers are a more affordable option that still provide excellent insulation and durability.

What is the best small cooler?

The best small cooler is one that is compact, lightweight, and easy to transport. Look for a cooler that has good insulation and can keep your food and drinks cold for an extended period of time. Some of the top small cooler brands include Yeti, Engel, and Coleman.

What is the best soft cooler?

The best soft cooler is one that is durable, lightweight, and easy to transport. Look for a cooler that has good insulation and can keep your food and drinks cold for an extended period of time. Some of the top soft cooler brands include Yeti, Engel, and Pelican.

Which Coleman cooler is the best?

Coleman is a well-known brand in the camping and outdoor industry. Their coolers are known for their affordability and durability. The best Coleman cooler for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Some of their top models include the Coleman Steel Belted Cooler and the Coleman Xtreme Cooler.