Best Coolers For Camping - Summer 2023

Are you planning a camping trip and wondering which cooler to bring? Look no further than our guide to best camping coolers. At Stoked Ride Shop, we have just about used every different cooler out there throughout our years in the wilderness. Here's our list of the top-rated coolers that are perfect for your next trip.

Note, these are our top picks for hard coolers. We will be reviewing the best soft coolers soon.

1. YETI Tundra 65 Cooler

(Best for Ice Retention)

The YETI Tundra 65 Cooler is hands down the best option for those who want maximum durability and ice retention. It's the king of the high-end coolers. It's a rotomolded cooler that is designed to be bearproof - extra thick walls ensure that your food and drinks stay cold for days, even in the hottest temperatures. It has sturdy rubber latches and a drain plug system to get rid of excess water once you're done. Pick up a couple of Yeti Ice Packs too for the best use of space.

The Tundra 65 also has tie-down points for securing it to your vehicle or boat. The downside? As with all yeti coolers, the Tundra 65 costs a pretty penny and rightfully earns it's place as one of the most expensive coolers on the market. Its weight and size can also make it difficult to transport (you'll need a friend) and therefore it's not ideal for day trips.

2. Coleman Steel Belted Cooler

(Best for Classic Style)

The Coleman Steel Belted Cooler is perfect for those who want a classic look and feel. Its steel exterior can withstand rough handling, and its hinged lid has a built-in bottle opener. The Coleman Steel Belted Cooler is available in several sizes to suit your camping needs. However, the Coleman Steel Belted Cooler may not retain ice as long as some of the more expensive options on our list. It's a great choice for weekend trips, but we'd check out some other options if going for longer trips.

3. Pelican Elite 70 Quart Cooler

(Best for Ruggedness and Durability)

The Pelican Elite Cooler is a great option for those who want a durable cooler with maximum ruggedness. Its high-density polyethylene construction and thick insulation can handle extreme temperatures and rough terrain. We love that it features a bottle opener and drink holders on the top, large enough to fit your HydroFlask.

The Pelican Elite Cooler also has a lifetime guarantee, so you can trust that it will last through many camping trips to come (Pelican will actually just replace it if it ever breaks). However, the Pelican Elite Cooler is quite heavy and can be difficult to transport.

4. Igloo MaxCold 70qt Cooler

(Best for Affordability)

Like the Igloo BMX, the Igloo MaxCold Cooler is a cheaper cooler option that doesn't skimp on performance. Its Ultratherm insulation keeps your food and drinks cold for up to five days, and its reinforced swing-up handles make it easy to transport. The Igloo MaxCold Cooler ice chest also has a built-in fish ruler, making it a great choice for fishing trips. However, the Igloo MaxCold Cooler may not be as durable as some of the other options on our list.

5. YETI Roadie 24 Cooler

(Best for Portability)

The YETI Roadie 24 Cooler is a small cooler perfect for those who want a portable option without sacrificing ice retention. Its rotomolded one of Yeti's hard-sided coolers that ensures it can withstand tough conditions, while its smaller size makes it easier to transport. The YETI Roadie 24 Cooler also has tie-down points for securing it to your vehicle or boat. However, the YETI Roadie 24 Cooler may not have the same storage capacity as some of the other options on our list.

6. RTIC 45 Cooler

(Best for Overall)

The RTIC 45 Cooler is perfect for those who need ample storage space for longer camping trips. If you need more room, go for the 65 Cooler instead.

Let's face it, RTIC is most certainly a complete rip off of Yeti, but do we care? Not really. Its roto-molded construction ensures that it can withstand harsh outdoor conditions, while its bearfoot non-slip feet keep it stable on any surface. The RTIC 45 Cooler also has tie-down points for securing it to your vehicle or boat. However, the RTIC 45 Cooler may be too large and heavy for some campers.

If you're looking for a soft pack option, the Rtic Soft Pack Cooler is great too. It has soft shoulder straps allowing you to carry it round all day.

7. RovR RollR Wheeled Cooler

(Best for Convenience)

The RovR RollR Wheeled Cooler is an excellent option for those who want a cooler with plenty of features. It has a built-in cutting board, a dry bin, a mesh bin, and even a bike attachment kit. Its heavy-duty wheels can handle rough terrain, and its bearproof design ensures that your food and drinks stay safe. The RovR RollR also has a lifetime warranty, making it a smart investment for frequent campers.

Dimensions: 20.5" x 16.5" x 20.5"

Weight: 43 lbs

Capacity: 88 cans

Construction: Rotomolded Cooler

Ice Retention: Up to 10 days

8. Coleman Xtreme

(Best Budget)

The Coleman Xtreme Cooler is a fantastic price points cooler that's perfect for camping, tailgating, or any outdoor adventure. It boasts exceptional ice retention, robust construction, and a spacious interior. If you're looking for a reliable cooler that can keep your food and drinks cold for days, the Coleman Xtreme Cooler is an excellent choice.

One of the standout features of the Coleman Xtreme Cooler is its impressive ice retention. Thanks to its thick walls and insulated lid, this cooler can keep ice for up to five days at temperatures as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit. This makes it ideal for extended camping trips, beach parties, or any other outdoor activity where you need to keep your food and drinks cold for an extended period.

Overall, the Coleman Xtreme Cooler is a reliable and high-performing cooler that can keep your food and drinks cold for days. Its robust construction and exceptional ice retention make it an excellent investment for anyone who loves spending time outdoors. Whether you're camping, tailgating, or enjoying a day at the beach, the Coleman Xtreme Cooler is sure to make your outdoor adventure more enjoyable.

Choosing a camping cooler - What to look for:

When shopping for a cooler for your next camping trip, there are a few features to look out for that will ensure you make the best choice for your needs. Here are some of the key factors to consider:

1. Ice Retention: Look for coolers that have good ice retention capabilities, meaning they can keep your food and drinks cold for several days. Rotomolded coolers are known for their superior ice retention compared to traditional coolers.

2. Durability: Your cooler will likely be exposed to the elements and rough handling, so choose one with a rugged exterior that can withstand outdoor conditions. Look for coolers with sturdy handles, tie-down points, and reinforced corners.

3. Size and Capacity: Consider how much food and drink you'll need to store in your cooler, as well as the available space in your vehicle. Larger coolers may have more storage space, but they can be heavy and difficult to transport.

4. Portability: Look for coolers with features that make them easy to transport, such as wheels, handles, and lightweight construction.

5. Additional Features: Some coolers come with additional features, such as built-in bottle openers, fish rulers, or bear-resistant locks. Consider which features are important to you and your camping needs.

Concluding

In conclusion, a high-quality cooler is an essential piece of equipment for any camping trip. The YETI Tundra 65 Cooler is the best option for those who want maximum durability and ice retention, while the Coleman Steel Belted Cooler is perfect for those who want a classic look and feel. The Pelican Elite Cooler is a great option for those who want maximum ruggedness and durability, and the Igloo MaxCold Cooler is an affordable option that still performs well. The YETI Roadie 24 Cooler is the best option for portability, while the RTIC 52 Cooler is perfect for those who need ample storage space. With our guide to the best coolers for camping, you're sure to find the perfect cooler for your next outdoor adventure.

Check back soon to see our thoughts on soft-sided coolers and backpack coolers