Quality coolers are essential components of any outdoor gear collection. They tend to be durable, well-insulated and often unexpectedly affordable.

Hard-sided coolers can become very heavy when loaded up with food, drinks and ice. To help make transport simpler, some models come equipped with wheels for easier movement.

Hard-Sided Coolers

For outdoor social gatherings, camping trips and beach days, having a reliable cooler is key to keeping food and beverages cool for as long as possible. When searching for models with rugged rotomolded bodies that resist damage from rough use as well as sun and heat exposure.

Rotomolding involves pouring hot molten plastic into a mold, which is then rotated so as to form an even coat of durable plastic over all areas of the cooler without stress points or cracks. While rotomolded coolers tend to be more costly and heavier than alternatives, their versatility make them worth investing in for those who frequently visit tailgating events, camping trips or beaches.

Many hard coolers are specially-designed for fishing, featuring fish rulers and features like anti-skid feet and bottle openers to help make fishing more relaxing. You may also find models with an ice retention rating exceeding industry standards so your food and drinks remain cool throughout your fishing session.

Soft-Sided Coolers

Soft-sided coolers are lightweight and easy to carry options that make for ideal picnics, beach visits, tailgating events or concerts, camping trips or multiday road trips. Soft coolers also make great keepers of fresh-caught fish when fishing!

When selecting a soft cooler, look for one with an easily-removable interior liner that allows for quick cleaning, well-sealed seams and zippers, sturdy straps and handles, as well as sturdy attachment points on its straps and handles. For longer treks such as hiking excursions, consider purchasing one in backpack style to distribute the weight more evenly.

Top-rated soft-sided coolers boast minimalist designs with excellent ice retention and reliable build quality, such as those offered by Yeti and their Hopper series of soft-sided coolers that combine ruggedness with an aesthetic. Although more expensive than other models in our guide, Yeti Hopper M30 coolers provide premium performance at an enticing price tag.

Coolers with Wheels

Wheels and handles of a cooler are key factors when it comes to ease of transporting it. If your cooler will be used off-pavement terrain (e.g. beach or tailgate), look for larger, rugged wheels capable of rolling over bumpy surfaces without becoming jammed in potholes; also take into consideration whether its handles, whether pull-up or telescoping, feel sturdy yet comfortable in your hands and are proportionate for your height.

Coolers in the 45- to 55-quart range with wheels are easily manageable even when fully packed, making them suitable for day trips or family picnics. Larger designs such as Pelican’s 80QW Elite should only be considered by serious outdoor enthusiasts or those planning extensive time spent on water or in nature.

Oversized all-terrain tires and a silicone-gripped, no-slam aluminum handle are designed to withstand tough use. Puncture-resistant tires easily handle sand, grass, dirt, stairs and are up to 30% lighter than wheeled rotomolded coolers of similar capacities.

Warranty

One of the primary motivations for purchasing a cooler is keeping food and drinks cool, but not all units perform equally. Experts advise considering more than just size when assessing coolers.

Construction of a cooler is also an important consideration, which affects its weight and how long it stays ice cold. Rotomolded coolers tend to provide superior insulation; with some models featuring welded seams or premium hardware.

The top value coolers feature durable hard-sided designs that are simple to use, clean, drain and transport. Furthermore, these models come equipped with sturdy wheels for easy movement from point A to B. Additionally, some of these brands even provide lifetime warranties, showing their confidence in their products – this model boasts one!