High-Quality Coolers
An effective cooler should be strong enough to contain melting ice and sticky drips from soda cans or rack of ribs for days at a time, with additional features that make cleanup as simple as possible. The top brands also often include extra features that simplify cleanup afterward.
Xspec’s tough rotomolded cooler features an impressive range of mounting points for accessories like tables and cutting boards, while maintaining a more utilitarian appearance that complements its overlanding-focused focus.
RTIC 45 qt Hard Cooler
The RTIC 45 cooler is an extreme-use cooler designed to withstand all conditions, featuring impact resistance, durability, and long-term ice retention – all at an attractive price point. Unlike Coleman Eskys that cut corners when it comes to quality such as non-marring feet or tie-down slots built into carrying handles – this roto-molded cooler does not sacrifice quality with non-marring feet and tie-down slots embedded into carrying handles – such as quality construction that won’t compromise.
Similar to a Yeti Tundra 45 cooler, this cooler features molded tie-down slots for secure mounting on truck beds or boats, rubber T-style latches for closure, drain spout, preformed slots for attaching padlocks (sold separately), more spacious interior (46 quart capacity that can store 36 cans or 40 pounds of ice), preformed slots to securely attach one (sold separately), preformed tie down slots to attach it securely, drain spout and drain spout for convenient drain spout access.
Roto-molded construction and 3 inches of Permafrost insulation kept temperatures stable during our test, maintaining an average temperature of 35.4 degrees Fahrenheit with plenty of ice left inside after 48 hours. Plus, when secured properly it’s also bear-proof!
Yeti Roadie 48 Wheeled Cooler
Yeti remains the premier brand in terms of durability and performance in the premium cooler market, leading the pack with their Roadie line featuring 48 and 60-quart wheeled options that are more convenient than its Tundra Haul counterpart for trips from car to office or vice versa.
As with other rotomolded models from this brand, the Roadie boasts rock solid strength and NeverFail latches with two interlocking pins to lock securely shut. PermaFrost insulation guarantees colder ice retention for campouts, beach trips, or tailgating events.
Although YETI arrived late to the wheeled cooler market, its design makes an excellent match for outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize portability. Its tall build fits wine bottles upright while taking up less space than many alternatives; its periscope handle folds up when not needed and clicks into place securely when not used; additional Roadie accessories include cup caddies and cooler dividers which double as cutting boards.
Hydro Flask Carry Out
Hydro Flask makes an outstanding soft-sided cooler for those searching for a long-term investment. Although more costly than budget models such as those from AO Coolers and Coleman, its insulation capabilities hold onto ice for over 24 hours without melting!
The Carry Out is slightly heavier than its competitors but still manages to remain lightweight enough to be easily transported over short distances, even when packed full with drinks and ice, plus it boasts thick grab handles on either side for additional support.
As with other soft coolers we’ve tested, the Carry Out lacks a bottom pocket for food items; instead it has a front zipper pocket designed specifically to store stain remover wipes and other small essentials.
Goat Hub
The Goat Boxco Hub 70 Cooler System reinvents high-performance cooler design by offering functional yet intuitive gear storage combined with heavy-duty rotomolded construction. Its integrated turrets offer interchangeable Gear Kits tailored specifically to different adventure activities – survival kits, first aid supplies, tools and BBQ essentials are just some of its many Gear Kit offerings.
These can be installed or taken apart within seconds, and when not in use a GOAT RACK storage solution turns your HUB into an ideal garage/mudroom gear storage solution for Gear Kits when not being used. A cargo net in front allows for quick-stash gear storage as well.
Rated to hold 59 liters of food and beverages, this cooler can withstand an extended wilderness adventure with plenty of ice. A durable drain plug and rubber latches add durability on bumpy rides while four detachable gear cans offer extra room for condiments, utensils, fire-starting equipment or any other necessities you might need in addition to your chilled meal.