The ideal coolers can keep food and drinks cold even in extreme outdoor temperatures for days – making them easy to transport and transport. But they must also be easy to carry around and maneuver.
Rotomolded coolers feature thicker exteriors to provide superior ice retention and double as seats or footstools; some models even boast bearproof certification, keeping your camping supplies safe from hungry predators.
1. YETI Tundra 45
The YETI Tundra 45 stands up to its rugged reputation with a durable rotationally molded construction and up to 3 inches of PermaFrost insulation that keeps food and drinks cool for up to four people at the same time. Ideal for camping trips or boating trips alike.
YETI’s rotational molding process uses a heated plastic mold while powdered polyethylene is injected to maintain uniform thickness and add extra durability. Furthermore, its Coldlock gasket creates a freezer-quality seal while its T-Rex latches make the Tundra hard to open.
The lid features a built-in dry goods basket capable of holding up to 26 cans and preventing them from moving around inside the cooler. Furthermore, thick plastic hinges with two interlocking pins form stronger connections than more commonly seen designs. Furthermore, YETI recommends rinsing the cooler after every use and storing it in a cool, dry location so as to prevent mold or mildew buildup.
2. Hydro Flask Carry Out
Hydro Flask coolers are essential when heading outdoors to hike mountains, cruise a chilly lake or just spend a day at the beach with friends. Their insulated bottle keeps cold drinks cold while hot ones hot, helping you maintain energy and hydration throughout your adventure.
Hydro Flask bottles are immensely popular with Gen Z for both their insulation properties and trendy aesthetic. There are 14 colors of powder-coat paint to choose from, ranging from cobalt blue and mint to mango. And while they may not have achieved as widespread popularity as YETI and Takeya products, Hydro Flask bottles continue to gain ground among outdoor-lovers who appreciate aesthetic design.
Hydro Flask goes beyond premium retail offerings to bring positive change to the outdoors. Their Parks for All program supports nonprofit organizations that work on building, maintaining and restoring parks. Furthermore, their #RefillForGood campaign urges people to reduce single-use plastic use; additionally their products are intelligently designed so refreshment doesn’t slow you down!
3. Reunion Steel-Belted Cooler
The Coleman Reunion Steel-Belted Cooler was created as the ideal companion for outdoor adventures, providing superior ice retention and classic vintage style. Boasting 85 cans, its 85 can capacity makes it perfect for weekend getaways and backyard tailgates alike. Plus, with its comfortable handle and Have-A-Seat lid that can support up to 250 lbs, as well as its leakproof channel drain drain that makes cleaning simple rustproof leak resistant channel drain for effortless cleanout, built-in bottle opener and built-in bottle openers it really delivers convenience at every turn.
Though the Yeti V Series cooler costs considerably more than the $170 Coleman Reunion cooler, its upgrades make up for it in terms of value for money. Its rotationally molded bottom increases durability and strength; and its latches are made of high-grade stainless steel which is more resilient and more attractive than plastic tabs found on Coleman coolers. Furthermore, this model comes with a six year warranty, far surpassing any three year options provided by Coleman coolers.
4. RovR RollR 45
ORCA may not be as well-known as Yeti or other premium rotomolded brands, but that doesn’t stop this Tennessee company from producing quality toys like the RollR. What you’ll notice first about its massive, rugged wheels with all-terrain tread is how smoothly they glide over everything from trails and shorelines to tricky surfaces like sand.
Rotomolded construction is also remarkable, being capable of withstanding more than 100 pounds of pressure without incurring damage. The insulated lid comes equipped with sturdy handles and thick rubber latches designed not to pop open accidentally or open unintentionally.
RovR isn’t cheap at $370 for its wheeled model and 37 pounds before adding ice, but its outstanding portability and wide array of fun add-ons (such as kitchen prep boards, canvas bins, bike attachment kits, dual cup holders and double compartmented dry bins) sets it apart from competitors.