Which cooler is best?
Whether you’re going on a picnic, doing some tailgating, or heading on a multi-day camping trip, a cooler is your best friend if you want access to cold drinks and fresh food.
There are many different coolers on the market, some of which are best for a 12-pack of cans, and others that can keep all manner of fresh foods safe to eat for days.
We’ve researched the latest innovations to bring you the best coolers. A couple of these are returning favorites that still stand up to our rigorous standards, but we also have a newcomer to our ranks.
What to know before you buy a cooler
Perhaps your first decision to make when choosing a cooler is whether to opt for a hard-sided or soft-sided model. Hard-sided coolers are more durable than their soft-sided counterparts and tend to keep their contents cooler for longer, but they can be bulky and expensive. Soft-sided coolers might not rival hard-sided models in terms of performance, but they’re lightweight, convenient, and often inexpensive.
Check what type and amount of insulation is found in any coolers you’re considering. While other factors play a part, generally more insulation equals better performance. The capacity is important, too, since a model with a 12-can capacity won’t cut it for a three-day camping trip. That said, your chosen cooler shouldn’t be so large that you’re unable to carry it when full. Quality handles and straps make transporting your cooler from place to place much easier.
When buying a hard-sided cooler, you may appreciate a drain in the base to more easily drain off water from melted ice. If you camp in spots where bears live, your cooler should also ideally be bear-proof.
Coolers can range in price from less than $10 for small soft-sided ones to $500 and more for large, high-performing hard-sided models.
Best coolers FAQ
Q. Are coolers easy to clean?
A. Most coolers have a conveniently smooth interior that can be wiped clean with slightly soapy water. Always make sure to thoroughly dry your cooler before storing it to avoid mold and mildew.
Q. How long will a cooler keep my food and drink chilled?
A. This depends on a number of factors, which is why most cooler manufacturers don’t make promises about how long their coolers will keep food fresh and chilled. For instance, a high-quality hard-sided cooler could keep food fresh for several days if you pack it with ice, replenish the ice every day, and keep the cooler out of direct sunlight. By comparison, the same cooler might only keep your food fresh for 12 hours if you don’t bother with cool packs and leave it out in the sun.
What are the best coolers to buy?
The large size fits up to 52 cans or equivalent. Three inches of insulation keep contents cooler for longer. It’s rotomolded and has thick walls, so it’s super sturdy and even bear-proof. It’s pricey but worthwhile for serious campers or anyone else who gets a lot of use from their cooler.
This well-built cooler has a huge capacity and can hold ice for as long as four days if the exterior temperature is 90°F or below. It’s an excellent value for money. However, keep in mind that some users report this cooler holds ice for far less time than advertised.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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