8 best hard coolers

Hard coolers, also known as ice chests or cool boxes, are rugged and durable containers designed to keep food and beverages cold for an extended period, making them essential for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, picnicking, and sports events. Here are some key points about hard coolers:

  1. Construction: Hard coolers are typically made from sturdy materials such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or rotomolded plastic. This construction provides excellent insulation and durability, making them capable of withstanding rough outdoor conditions.

  2. Insulation: These coolers feature thick insulation in the walls and lids, which helps to maintain low temperatures inside. The insulation material varies between brands and models but is designed to keep ice from melting too quickly.

  3. Capacity: Hard coolers come in various sizes, with capacities ranging from small, personal coolers that can hold a few cans to large coolers capable of storing enough food and drinks for a group or a multi-day trip.

  4. Ice Retention: The ability to retain ice is a crucial feature of hard coolers.Premium models can keep ice frozen for several days, even in hot weather, making them ideal for extended outdoor adventures.

  5. Sealing: Most hard coolers have airtight gaskets and high-quality latches to ensure a secure seal, preventing warm air from entering and cold air from escaping.

  6. Portability: Many hard coolers come with ergonomic handles for easy carrying. Some larger models may also have wheels and telescoping handles for convenient transportation.

  7. Additional Features: Depending on the brand and model, hard coolers may come with various features such as built-in cup holders, cutting boards, bottle openers, and storage compartments.

  8. Durability: Hard coolers are built to withstand rough handling, including being used as makeshift seats or tables in outdoor settings. They are also designed to resist damage from UV rays, saltwater, and other environmental factors.

  9. Brand Variety: Several well-known brands specialize in hard coolers, including Yeti, Coleman, Igloo, Pelican, and RTIC, among others. Each brand offers a range of sizes and features to suit different needs.

  10. Price Range: The price of hard coolers can vary widely based on factors like size, brand, and features. Premium rotomolded coolers tend to be more expensive than traditional plastic coolers.

In summary, hard coolers are essential outdoor accessories for keeping food and beverages cold during camping, hiking, and various recreational activities. They come in a range of sizes and offer excellent insulation, durability, and ice retention capabilities, making them a valuable addition to outdoor adventures.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best hard coolers on the market
  

RTIC Ice Chest Hard Cooler, Heavy Duty Rubber Latches, 3 Inch Insulated Walls, 45 Quart

RTIC

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This cooler is all about extremes - from impact resistance and durability to long lasting ice retention. This midsize cooler makes a perfect multi-purpose cooler. It can be carried by one person. The RTIC 45 can do double duty as a bench, nonslip step stool, tabletop and extra cutting board while keeping ice, perishables and vital supplies cold.

  • BEST COOLER ON THE MARKET: Up for any occasion, the RTIC 45 will be the star of the show at any barbecue, fishing trip or campout. Roto-molded construction with heavy duty T-latches and a freezer grade gasket will store all your necessities with ease.
  • INSULATION THAT DOESN'T QUIT: Going on a long trip? No problem. Up to 3" of insulated walls will keep your ice cold for days.
  • THE BEST OF THE BEST: No fail hinges, no sweat exterior, cool lift design, molded side handles and tie downs so your cooler is always where it needs to be.
  • OVERBUILT, NOT OVERPRICED: At RTIC we don’t see the reason for making products that our customers can't afford. That's why our products are the HIGHEST QUALITY for the LOWEST PRICE.
  • OUR RTIC PROMISE: If you have an issue with your product, let us know and we will make it right.

User questions & answers

Question: Is this the same model as the white and tan
Answer: Yes it is. Just a color change.
Question: How many cans will it hold
Answer: I put 36 with ice and good for 2days
Question: How many beer cans can you fit in this bad boy? Deciding between this and the
Answer: 36 cans vs 64 cans. The 65 is much larger and heavier though than the 45. Both coolers are great. Just depends on your needs. I choose the 45 but could of easily choose the 65. I use my 45 in the back of the SUV when I go to Costco and stock up on frozen stuff. Etc. parties in the summer just fill this and leave it on the back deck keeps things cold for days. Not sure if this helps both are great
Question: Does anyone in Florida have this cooler that can tell me how long it will hold ice
Answer: I don’t live in Florida anymore, but in San Antonio where it’s about the same as it was I Miami they last well enough. Depends on how you use it. If everyone is constantly opening it for beer then it’ll last a day(2 with cold water). If it’s not used very much at all it can last 3. I went camping and kept it in the shade probably 80° in the shade and it lasted 2.5 days but the ice cold water kept the rest of the beer cold for 4 days. Just depends on how much it’s opened. Also it helps a lot if the drinks you put in it are already cold.

Coleman Xtreme 5 Cooler | 70 Quart Day Cooler | Hard Cooler Keeps Ice Up to 5 Days, Black

Coleman

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Food and drinks—and the fun—last longer at the campsite or tailgate with the Coleman 70-Quart Xtreme 5-Day Hard Cooler. It keeps ice up to 5 days in temperatures as high as 90°F, to be exact. Carrying a fully loaded cooler? You'll appreciate the no-crush comfort-grip side handles that allow for pinch-free carrying.

  • Xtreme Technology; Insulated lid and extra wall insulation keep ice up to 5 days in temperatures as high as 90°F
  • High Capacity: Holds Up to 100 Cans
  • HAVE-A-SEAT LID: Closed lid supports up to 250 lb.
  • Cup Holders: Molded Into the Lid to Keep Drinks Close and Prevent Spilling
  • COMFORT-GRIP HANDLES: No-crush design with positive stop for pinch-free carrying
  • EASY TO CLEAN: Smoother surface wipes clean easily; leak-resistant channel drain for easy draining without tilting

User questions & answers

Question: Just got my cooler and there is no plug
Answer: Mine has a plug
Question: what is the length of this cooler
Answer: Outside measurement 27"
Question: Anybody know inside dimensions
Answer: The inside dimensions of the rectangular shaped cooler is 15" X 26 3/4" with a 3/4" wall. The cooler on wheels has a 1/2" wall.
Question: I'm confused...this listing states "wheeled cooler" but I don't see any wheels in the pictures. Does this in fact have wheels
Answer: This looks like a great cooler. I ordered it. However, it DOES NOT have wheels! It is pretty big and looks good but with no wheels...no way.

Product features

EZ-Clean Lid

With its smoother texture, the EZ-Clean lid wipes clean easily, making cleanup a breeze. You'll be ready for your next outdoor gathering in no time.

Have A Seat Lid

Sturdy lid supports up to 250 pounds so you always have an extra place to sit and relax with friends and family.

No Crush Handles

Side handles feature a positive stop for no-pinch carrying, making it a cinch to lift your cooler in and out of the car.

Built In Cup Holders

Conveniently molded into the lid are 2-inch-deep cup holders to keep drinks handy and avoid spills.

Igloo BMX

Igloo

Based on 7 reviews Check latest price
  • Heavy duty blow-molded construction with reinforced base for increased strength and protection.
  • Extremely durable yet lightweight with proven 4-5 day ice retention
  • UV inhibitors protect the cooler against sun damage for extended life.
  • Rust-resistant, stainless-steel hinge rods and hardware provide extended performance.
  • Rubberized T-grip latches keep lid secure.
  • MaxCold body with 20% thicker foam and insulated lid provide advanced cooling performance and up to 4-day ice retention.
  • Cool Riser Technology molded base elevates the cooler away from hot surfaces and improves cooling performance.

User questions & answers

Question: Made in USA
Answer: It was a rip-off and I can’t believe amazon works with this seller.
Question: what are the internal dimentions
Answer: Yes! You have to manually adjust on/off and speeds!
Question: What are the internal dimensions
Answer: This particular fan is not an outdoor fan and we highly recommend only keeping this one indoors. We do carry outdoor fans that are wet listed, coated with U/V resistant all weather paint, and have a weighted base to provide stability for windy conditions.
Question: How many squirrel carcasses will fit in the cooler if i already 11 lonestar beers and a quart of ice
Answer: We do make outdoor fans. We are very limited in stock. Please email [email protected] and we can advise which outdoor rated fans are in stock.

Product features

Igloo BMX 25 Quart Cooler

Engineered for sturdiness and performance, the lightweight BMX stands up to tough conditions and goes wherever you want. Durable construction with reinforced base and kick plates for increased strength and protection.

Coleman 3000005350 Cooler, 28 quart, Blue/White

Coleman

Based on 400 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Keep your food and drinks cold for an extended time, and make the fun last longer, when you bring a Coleman 28 Quart Xtreme 3 Cooler. Xtreme technology uses an insulated lid and extra insulation in the walls to keep your items cold for up to 3 days. Large enough to hold 48 cans and tall enough to hold 2-liter bottles upright, you'll have plenty of space for refreshments for a whole group of people. Whether you're headed on a long weekend camping trip, a roadtrip, or out to a BBQ, the comfort-grip bail handle makes getting to your destination easy and comfortable. Once you arrive, the Have-A-Seat lid will ensure you always have a place to sit and relax, and the cup holders molded into the lid will keep your cold drink close while you enjoy the day. When the fun is done, the EZ-Clean top wipes clean, so you're ready for your next fun adventure. Features: - Keeps the Ice! up to 3 days at temperatures up to 32 °C (90 °F) - Xtreme technology uses an insulated lid and extra insulation in the walls for longer ice retention - Comfort-grip bail handle allows for easy carrying with just one hand - Cup holders molded into the hinged lid keep drinks close - Added height to hold 2-liter bottles upright to help prevent spills - Have-A-Seat Lid supports up to 250 lbs. for a place to sit and rest - EZ-Clean top uses a smoother surface that easily wipes clean - Low CO2 insulation for reduced carbon emissions from foam manufacturing Specifications: - Size: 26.5 L (28 qt) - Capacity: Holds 48 cans - External Dimensions: 18.3" x 12.8" x 15.6" - Internal Dimensions: 15" x 9.8" x 12.1" - Empty Weight: 6 lbs. - Color: Blue/White

  • Made of the highest quality materials
  • Camping coolers
  • Another quality Coleman product

User questions & answers

Question: What is the wall thickness of this cooler
Answer: Don't buy this cooler the handle breaks with very little weight in the cooler. Don't buy it.
Question: I heard in an an rei review the handle has been redesigned to be stronger. can anyone verify
Answer: I cannot verify this. We bought our cooler last winter for a trip to Florida. The handle is not designed to handle the weight.
Question: What are the internal dimensions? Is it tall enough to hold a 12" wine bottle or a 1-Liter Coke bottle
Answer: L14"xW9"xH12.5" and about an inch more in height in the middle of the lid.
Question: What are the external dimensions of this cooler
Answer: 15 3/4 inches tall, 18 inches length, and 12 inches wide with handle up, 13 inches wide with handle down.

Product features

Coleman 3000005350 Cooler, 28 quart, Blue/White

Keep your food and drinks cold for an extended time, and make the fun last longer, when you bring a Coleman 28 Quart Xtreme 3 Cooler. Xtreme technology uses an insulated lid and extra insulation in the walls to keep your items cold for up to 3 days. Large enough to hold 48 cans and tall enough to hold 2-liter bottles upright, you'll have plenty of space for refreshments for a whole group of people. Whether you're headed on a long weekend camping trip, a road trip, or out to a BBQ, the comfort-grip bail handle makes getting to your destination easy and comfortable. Once you arrive, the Have-A-Seat lid will ensure you always have a place to sit and relax, and the cup holders molded into the lid will keep your cold drink close while you enjoy the day. When the fun is done, the EZ-Clean top wipes clean, so you're ready for your next fun adventure.

Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze Zipperless Hardbody Cooler

Arctic Zone

Based on 20 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Titan Deep Freeze Can Zipperless Cooler keeps ice up to 3 days! The exterior includes our patented, “flip-open” Zipperless lid for quick access to food and drinks as well as an insulated front pocket. The interior features Deep Freeze high performance insulation with radiant heat barrier and a removable HardBody liner with SmartShelf. The SmartShelf allows you to keep hard stuff like drinks separate from soft stuff, so sandwiches and other soft foods don’t get crushed. If you want to use the entire liner, the SmartShelf easily removes to provide one large compartment. Designed for convenience and usability, this cooler also features an adjustable Backsaver shoulder strap with shoulder pad and Rhino-Tech exterior material that is tough, water and stain resistant and easy to wipe clean. Interior liner dimensions: (L x W x H) 12.7 x 7.6 x 10.2 inches

  • Deep Freeze high performance insulation with radiant heat barrier reflects heat rather than absoring it; Includes insulated front pocket
  • Patented, "flip open" Zipperless lid allows for quick accress to food and drinks; Features FDA compliant HardBody liner with removable SmartShelf
  • Features an Ultra Safe leak proof, easy clean interior lining; Adjustable Backsaver shoulder strap with shoulder pad for convenience and usability
  • Rhino-Tech water and stain resistant, wipe clean exterior is abrasion and puncture resistant and will not crack over time
  • Exterior Dimensions: (L x W x H) 12.25" x 8" x 12.25"; Interior Dimensions: (L x W x H) 9.8" x 4.75" x 10.25"

User questions & answers

Question: Would this cooler hold a bottle or handle of jim beam? Lol for a fathers day gift
Answer: It would be at the top. Total height.
Question: Does klear bottle - 40 oz insulated stainless steel water bottle fits in this
Answer: Its 3 prong
Question: The hard liner in my cooler cracked and now leaks. Can I buy a replacement liner
Answer: Yes, it is. Not as loud as other fans, but once you put it on HIGH, it does get loud. I have 2 in my garage. And when I put then on oscillate, they both squeak when they hit a certain spot.
Question: How does this compare to a Yeti, other than the price
Answer: 180 - as long as it continues to work. My 2 fans stopped oscillating after 3wks.

Coleman 28-Quart Cooler With Bail Handle, Blue

Coleman

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Coleman 28-Quart Cooler holds 36 twelve-ounce cans, and it-Inchs tall enough to store 2-liter bottles upright. It features a convenient hinged lid and large bail handle for comfortable carrying. The 28-Quart Cooler is made in the USA with Thermozone insulation, which includes 0% ozone-depleting materials. Exterior measures 19.7-Inch x 12-Inch x 13.7-Inch.

  • Polyethylene
  • Made in the USA or Imported
  • Sport Type: Camping & Hiking

User questions & answers

Question: How tall is it
Answer: 13.7 inches
Question: is the top domed on the iside so that you could put blue ice on top of 2 gallons of milk
Answer: Yes, there is a rise in the lid that adds to the interior height.
Question: How long does ice last
Answer: Buzz, it depends on how much ice you put in the cooler and the quality of the ice. Yes, there are different qualities of ice - who knew? Twenty pounds from Walmart can last me two days. That adds up to $60 a month. I am going to buy an icemaker.
Question: will 2 gallons of milk fit in this cooler
Answer: yes

Product features

Coleman 28-Quart Cooler With Bail Handle

Take your meal to go—to the campsite, to go—to the picnic, to go—to the game— in a Coleman 28 Quart Cooler. Its tall, slender design fits 2-liter bottles upright to prevent spills. If you'd rather tote individual drinks, the cooler holds 36 cans—more than a case of soda. The comfortable handle makes easy work of carrying the cooler, and a hinged lid offers up easy access so you can get back to the fun faster. Inside, ThermOZONE Insulation holds the cold, free from CFCs, HFCs and HCFCs, which deplete the ozone.

Coleman 30-Can Soft Cooler with Hard Liner-Green

Coleman

Based on 9 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Coleman 30-Can Soft Cooler With Hard Liner-Green

  • Crafted from the highest quality material
  • Perfect for outdoor and even indoor use
  • Made in China

Coleman FlipLid Personal Cooler, 5 Quarts

Coleman

Based on 9 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Take a cooler and a mini table with you to your next event when you bring along a Coleman 5 Quart FlipLid Cooler. Large enough to hold 6 cans, you'll have plenty of space to pack a full meal. Whether you're bringing lunch to work or heading out for an afternoon picnic, the bail handle makes getting to your destination easy. Once you arrive, the FlipLid hinged lid flips over for use as a tray with molded beverage holders. When the fun is done, the EZ-Clean top wipes clean, so you're ready for your next fun adventure.

  • Small, portable cooler keeps food and beverages cold
  • 5-quart capacity holds up to 6 cans
  • Reversible FlipLid with molded beverage holders provides stable surface
  • Bail handle for convenient one-handed operation
  • Made in the USA

User questions & answers

Question: Can it hold a 6 pack of beer and lots of ice
Answer: Take a corner and twist it with your hands after lighting. If the burning residue becomes ash powder and does not clump, then smell the smell of natural protein after burning. If it is basically silk, it can be judged. If it becomes a hard lump, there is a smell of plastic burning, it is chemical fiber paper or not 100% mulberry silk
Question: How tall is this cooler exactly
Answer: Dry cleaning or gentle hand wash with mild detergent in cold or lukewarm water. Please dry out of direct sunlight !
Question: Will this hold a beer bottle? If so how many
Answer: Hello customer, we suggest to gentle hand wash with mild detergent in cold or lukewarm water. And dry out of direct sunlight !
Question: What are the interior dimensions of the cooler
Answer: Yes! Mine washes and dries well.

Product features

Coleman FlipLid Cooler, 5 Quart

Take a cooler and a mini table with you to your next event when you bring along a Coleman 5 Quart FlipLid Cooler. Large enough to hold 6 cans, you'll have plenty of space to pack a full meal. Whether you're bringing lunch to work or heading out for an afternoon picnic, the bail handle makes getting to your destination easy. Once you arrive, the FlipLid hinged lid flips over for use as a tray with molded beverage holders. When the fun is done, the EZ-Clean top wipes clean, so you're ready for your next fun adventure.

Product Details:

  • Holds 6 cans
  • FlipLid reversible hinged lid turns this cooler into a mini table
  • Bail handle allows for easy carrying with just one hand
  • EZ-Clean top uses a smoother surface that easily wipes clean
  • Low CO2 insulation for reduced carbon emissions from foam manufacturing
  • Made in the USA

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