11 Best Coolers For Camping In 2021
sanjana lagudu 
In This Article
Nothing can be more refreshing than a cold beverage after a long hike in the sun. But how can you get a cold drink in the middle of the mountains? The answer is a cooler. Yes! A cooler is a box made to keep your food and beverages cold and fresh.
It comes in handy while camping outdoors; all you need to do is put some ice in the cooler and then place your drink bottles on top of the ice and shut the cooler. These coolers come in various types, and some can even hold packed lunches and snacks to keep them from getting spoiled.
If you often have outdoor picnics or go on hikes, this post on some of the best coolers for camping can help you choose the best.
Top Picks
11 Best Coolers For Camping
1. Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze Cooler
This cooler comes with a radiant heat barrier that does not absorb heat but reflects it, making it one of the best coolers for camping. The inner tub, measuring 12.7 x 7.6 x 10.5in, features a durable hardbody liner with a smart shelf, which can be used to store hard stuff separated from the drinks. The cooler’s exterior measures 16.50 x 11 x 12.25in and is resistant to water, stain, abrasion, and puncture.
The flip-open zipperless lid allows quick access to the food and drinks, and it also has an insulated and zippered front storage pocket. The adjustable back saver strap comes with an anti-slip shoulder pad.
Specifications
Capacity: 9, 16, 30, and 48 cans
Insulation: Deep freeze high performance with a radiant heat barrier
Ice retention: Up to three days
Weight: Varies with the capacity
Pros
- Smart shelf for separating drinks from food
- Leakproof and easy-to-clean lining
- Triple-layer ColdBlock base
- Flip-open lid for easy access
- Side mesh pockets
Cons
- Plastic liner might be thin and brittle
- Ice may not stay for three days as claimed
2. CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag
The CleveMade cooler bag is made of polyethylene vinyl acetate, polypropylene, polyester, MDF, and ABS. It can fit up to 50 cans and is a perfect addition to your beach picnic or a summer pool party. The bag can be collapsed flat to 3in. It comes with patented snap hinges on both sides that offer structured support when the bag is in use. It comes in charcoal, denim, and steel blue colors.
Specifications
Capacity: 50 cans
Insulation: Three layers of leak-proof insulation sealed with sonically welded PEVA
Ice retention: Up to36 hours
Weight: 2lb
Pros
- Collapsible and lightweight
- Large basket capacity
- Steel wireframe on top
- Top and side handles to carry
- Solid board base
- Zippered front storage pocket
- Integrated bottle opener
Cons
- Melted ice might leak from the bottom
- May not retain ice for 36 hours in hot climates
3. Igloo Marine Ultra Cooler
If you often go on fishing trips, this cooler might come in handy as it is built to last the harsh and wet environments. It measures 26.375 x 15.5 x 15.5in and contains UV inhibitors that protect the contents from sun damage. The non-slip handles give a comfortable and good grip in wet conditions. The latch features stainless steel in the hinge area and plastic in the snap area for secure closure.
Specifications
Capacity: 30, 36, 48, 54, 72, and 94 quart
Insulation: Ultratherm insulated body
Ice retention: Up to seven days
Weight: Varies with the capacity
Pros
- Sturdy construction to withstand harsh environments
- Reinforced handles for ease of carrying
- Stain- and odor-resistant
- Rust-resistant stainless steel lid strap
Cons
- Lacks a drain plug
- Lid may not be insulated
4. Stanley Adventure Leakproof Cooler
This Stanley cooler is for the adventure freaks. The tough and durable high-density polyethylene outer shell can sustain harsh and wet environments. The silicone gasket on the lid gives higher insulation and makes this cooler leakproof. With dimensions of 13.3 x 8.6in, this is ideal for camping, hiking, picnics, etc. You can choose from the four colors available.
Specifications
Capacity: 7 quart
Insulation: Double wall foam
Ice retention: Up to 27 hours
Weight: 3.9lb
Pros
- Strong outer shell
- Leakproof
- Heavy-duty top handle
- Strings along the top to hold a bottle or thermos
- Sturdy latches
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Might flip over while carrying
- Might not be easy to open
5. Coleman Cooler
If you have a large family or are coaching your child’s school baseball team, this cooler is just what you might need. It comes with a molded lid with cup holders on the four corners to prevent spilling. The lid is strong enough to support 250lb weight and can also be used as a seat. The surfaces are smooth and easy to clean, and the comfortable grip handles on either side make it easy to carry around.
Specifications
Capacity: 70 quart
Insulation: Polyurethane
Ice retention: Up to five days
Weight: 11.75lb
Pros
- High capacity; holds up to 100 cans
- Strong and sturdy construction
- Closed lid can be used as a seat
- Leak-resistant drain channel
- Molded cup holders
- Can be wiped clean
Cons
- No wheels for carrying conveniently
6. Seehonor Insulated Cooler Backpack
This cooler backpack is perfect for an outdoor picnic. Measuring 13.3 x 8.6 x 14.9in, the backpack has enough room to carry meals, snacks, beverages, and beers. The exterior is made of lightweight, scratch-resistant, heavy-duty nylon and features mesh side pockets and a zippered front pocket. The interiors are dustproof and include one large cooler storage compartment, one side mesh pocket, one beer opener, and two D-shaped hooks for attachment. You can choose from four different colors available.
Specifications
Capacity: 26 quart
Insulation: Leakproof PEVA liner with 8mm insulation foam
Ice retention: Up to 12 hours
Weight: 1.5lb
Pros
- Easy-to-carry design
- Leakproof horizontal zipper
- Lightweight and durable
- Dirt-proof interiors are easy to wipe clean
- Padded back with an ergonomic breathable design
- Adjustable shoulder straps
Cons
- Zippers may not be durable
- Ice might leak
7. Yeti Tundra 45 Cooler
The Yeti Tundra 45 with Rotomolded construction is sturdy and can withstand rough climatic and travel conditions. It comes with heavy-duty rubber and T-Rex lid latches to keep the lid secured and the contents cool. It measures 25 ½ x 16 x 15 ½ in and comes with a standard dry goods basket. There are nine different colors to choose from.
Specifications
Capacity: 45 quart
Insulation: PermaFrost Insulation
Ice retention: Up to 10 days
Weight: 23lb
Pros
- Durable and sturdy construction with extra-thick walls
- Military-grade polyester handles
- Molded tie-down slots for easy mounting
- Vortex drainage system
- Non-slip feet
Cons
- Might be too heavy for some
- Does not come with wheels
8. Olar Hike Cooler Bag
Carry your cola, beers, or fruit juices for your picnics with this simple cooler bag. The exterior is made of 600D Oxford nylon fabric that is easy to dry, whereas the interior is made of PEVA foil and 8mm padded EPE foam. You can either pick this bag using the top handles or grab the side handle for a hands-free experience. It comes in black and grey and 24-can and 40-can variants.
Specifications
Capacity: 32 quart
Insulation: PEVA foil padded with 8mm EPE foam
Ice retention: Up to 12 hours
Weight: 1.16lb (24-can), 1.98lb (40-can)
Pros
- Lightweight and scratch-resistant
- Easy to carry and clean
- Collapsible design for easy storage
- Leakproof and waterproof
- External mesh pocket
- Zippered front pocket
- Adjustable shoulder strap with anti-slip shoulder pad
Cons
- Water may leak
- May not be great for the summer
9. Lifetime High Performance Cooler
Built to last, the Lifetime cooler can be a good companion on your fishing trips. It measures 27 x 17.6 x 17.3in and is made of polyethylene that is resistant to wear and tear. The padlock compatibility makes it easy to load and remove it from the boat. The two rubber latches near the lid can be opened with one hand.
Specifications
Capacity: 55 quart
Insulation: Polyethylene construction
Ice retention: Up to seven days
Weight: 23.4lb
Pros
- Heavy-duty construction
- Easy-to-drain spout with garden hose compatibility
- Integrated steel bottle opener
- Over-molded feet with slide guard
Cons
- May be bulky for some
10. Reyleo Camping Cooler
The Reyleo camping cooler could be your best companion on boat trips or outdoor picnics. The thick insulation helps keep your food and drinks fresh for long, and the rotomolded construction makes the exterior shell sturdy and durable. The whole body is made of non-toxic, odorless, UV-resistant material and does not discolor easily. The cooler’s contains molded cup holders, an integrated bottle opener, and a fish ruler. It comes in blue, gray, and green.
Specifications
Capacity: 21 quart and 52 quart
Insulation: Polyurethane foam
Ice retention: 72-120 hours
Weight: 16.9lb (21 quart), 32lb (52 quart)
Pros
- Solid and sturdy construction
- Heavy-duty and grippy handles
- Bottle holders on top
- Non-slip mats at the base
- Drainage spout
Cons
- Lid seal may not be tight
11. SuperHandy Ice Chest Rotomolded Cooler
This rotomolded cooler is made of food-grade safe materials and is also dry-ice compatible. The outer shell is tough and can sustain harsh environments. This cooler features 3in thick insulated walls, an all-round UV protection shell, and a commercial-grade 360° D-seal gasket to trap the cold. The interior is spacious and has dimensions of 21.5 x 11 x 21.1in.
Specifications
Capacity: 45 quart
Insulation: Rotomolded
Ice retention: Up to five days
Weight: 16.75lb
Pros
- Sturdy construction
- Heavy-duty removable handles
- Integrated bottle opener
- Zero-leak drain plug
- Non-skid feet
- T-clasps for secure locking
Cons
- Might be large to fit into some cars
- May not hold the ice for long
Types Of Coolers For Camping
There are different types of coolers that might help keep your drinks cool when you are out picnicking, barbecuing, or fishing.
- Plastic coolers: These coolers are durable and tear-resistant. They are made of materials, such as polyurethane, that provide insulation. They usually have large capacities and can even hold your snacks and eatables along with the drinks. Some come with a sturdy and heavy-duty construction that can be used for fishing trips.
- Metal coolers: If you are looking to take a cooler on your fishing trip, then go with a metal one, as these are durable. However, these would be quite heavy.
- Styrofoam coolers: These coolers are made of hard styrofoam boxes with removable lids. These may not be long-lasting and durable, but they are lightweight and serve the purpose.
- Fabric cooler bags: Perfect for picnics and outdoor parties, these cooler bags are small and compact. Some also come in a backpack style that is easy to carry. They are made of nylon and are waterproof, but may not keep things cold for a long time.
How To Choose The Right Cooler For Camping?
Here are a few things to keep in mind while buying a cooler for camping.
- Purpose: If you are going on a picnic or a pool party, go for the compact fabric cooler bags, but if you are looking for a cooler to take on a hiking or serious fishing trip, go for the plastic one.
- Durability: Metal and plastic coolers are durable. If you are going to use the cooler in rough and harsh environments, it is best to buy a plastic or a metal cooler.
- Ice life: If you are looking for longer ice-retention capacity, then buy a cooler that has additional factors like rotomolded construction, elevated feet, and freezer-stye rubber gasket.
- Capacity: These coolers come in a compact size, up to 94-quart capacity. So choose one as per your need.
- Additional features: Look for other features such as built-in cup holders, bottle openers, padlock compatibility, drain plugs, and extra storage spaces.
A cooler could be a good long-term investment if you are a family who likes to go camping. Some models are versatile and can also be used to carry packed lunches to the office or school. So, choose the one that fits your requirement.
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