Camping is one of the proven ways or reliving stress. It is also believed that those people who go for camping frequently are more energetic than those who spend time in crowded places. However, you need to do thorough preparations before you hit the road.Definitely, you will need some tools and accessories when you are out there which will make your camping successful. A camping cooler is one of the most important things you should have. This device will keep your drinks cold and you food fresh when camping.However, you need to be very careful because not all coolers on the market are of high quality. Choosing the right cooler for camping is no longer a hard task since we have compiled a list of the best cooler for camping you should consider. Which ones are they and why are they the best? We shall explain this in details in this article
Best Cooler For Camping -Comparison Table
Preview | Product Name | Editor's Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | YETI Tundra 65 Cooler | [usr 5.0] | |
 | Engel ENG65 Roto-Molded Cooler | [usr 4.8] | |
 | YETI Roadie 20 Cooler | [usr 4.8] | |
 | RTIC Cooler (RTIC 45 Tan | [usr 4.7] | |
 | ORCA with Lid & Bottom | [usr 4.6] | |
 | Pelican Elite 50 Quart Cooler | [usr 4.5] | |
 | Thermik Roto-molded Cooler | [usr 4.3] | |
 | Seavilis Cooler (MILEE) | [usr 4] | |
 | Pelican Elite Soft Cooler | [usr 3.8] | |
 | Coleman Heritage XP H2O Marine | [usr 3.5] |
The best thing about the coolers in our list is that they have an excellent ice retention capacity. They are also made of quality materials which allows them to withstand harsh conditions. Additionally, they are spacious enough and can hold most of your products. Another thing is that they come with comfortable handles which allows you to carry them easily.
Read More Buying Guide : Best Air Mattress for Camping 2019 / Best Spotlight For Camping
Top 10 Coolers for Camping Reviews
01. YETI Tundra 65 Cooler
Yeti Tundra 65 comes first is our list as the most reliable cooler for camping. If you are not on a limited budget and you just need the best cooler, you can’t go wrong with this one.
We realized that it comes with unique features as compared to others. As you can see here ,it has so many positive reviews and this is a prove that you will be investing in a quality product. The first thing we noted is that it is well insulated and as a result, you can put your dry ice in the cooler without any problem. It contains 3-Inch thick insulation on each wall.
Secondly, it has a high quality lid which prevents the cold air from moving out of the cooling compartment. If you are searching for a unit that will keep everything extra chilly inside the cooler, Yeti Tundra 65 cooler is the best. When using the cooler, you can be assured that it will keep your drinks cold for up to 10 days depending on the temperatures.
You should also note that it is made of quality materials which enables it to last longer than others. Due to its strong construction, the cooler is more expensive than others. It is spacious enough and it can hold up to 150 cans. It might not be the best for those in need of a lightweight cooler. However, you can comfortably move it in and out of your car if you would like to carry it when hiking. You can also use it as a chair or a bench for 2 people. You can get it at a discounted price from Amazon.
Pros
Cons
Summary :- This one is one is the best cooler for camping. It is durable and spacious enough to accommodate your items.
02. Engel Coolers High Performance ENG65 Roto-Molded Cooler
Engel ENG65 Roto-molded comes second as one of the most efficient coolers you can find out there. If you are searching for a reliable cooler that can keep your food fresh for at least 5 days, this one will be a perfect choice.
It comes with grade compression latchets and a silicone gasket which ensures that air does not leak from the cooler. Remember to clean the silicone gasket thoroughly after use.
You should also note that it has a high level of insulation. It features a solid 2-inch polyurethane foam around the cooler. It also features an Anvil Hinge which allows the lid to remain upright when open. This is a very important feature especially when you want to get something from the cooler and you are holding other items in your hands. The feature also comes in handy when you are searching for something in the cooler using your two hands.
Another exceptional thing we noted about the unit is that it is IGBC certified bear resistant container. This means it is a long lasting unit. Unlike others, it comes with an inbuilt bottle opener and the extended handles enables you to carry it easily.
Pros
Cons
Summary :- The best thing about this cooler is that unlike others, it is IGBC certified. It also comes with extended handles for easy carrying. However, it might be a bit hard to clean.
03. YETI Roadie 20 Cooler
YETI Roadie 20 cooler is another top rated cooler in our list. Unlike others, it has an outstanding simple but robust design which gives it an attractive look.
It is small in size which makes it a suitable option when traveling. The edges are round and smooth to ensure that they do not damage your vehicle or even hurt you when carrying. On top of that, it features a rotatable metal hand with soft padding. This allows you to carry easily even when it is full.
We should also mention that it is bear resistant certified. If you like a specific color, you will be happy to note that the unit is available in different colors which includes; Ice Blue, Desert Tan White and LE Coral. It is not one of the most affordable units but you will get value for your money.
Another thing that is worth mentioning is that it has a Vortex drain system which allows the melting ice to exit through the draining hole. This system also allows water to move from the cooler easily. You will also find that it features T-Rex lid latches which are made of quality rubber. These latches ensures that the lid remain locked to prevent air from leaking.
The best thing is that you can easily remove them when you they are not in use. You should avoid placing it directly to sunlight if you want it to serve you for a long time. Lastly, this unit comes with a 5 years warranty.
Pros
Cons
Summary :- This one is another top rated cooler which comes with a vortex drain system. It also comes with a 5 years warranty. However, it is a bit expensive.
04. RTIC Cooler (RTIC 45 Tan)
You can also find it in 3 different colors which includes; Blue, White and Tan. One of the most outstanding features of this unit is that it has a superb ice retention capacity. This means that the ice can last up to 10 days which makes it perfect for camping. Additionally, it can hold up to 45 cans of beverages. It also has an exceptional shock defense and impact resistance. On top of that, it is able to withstand extreme weather conditions.
If you are looking for a long lasting cooler, it might be a great option since it is made of quality materials. It is very versatile and as a result, you can use when fishing, boating, trips and tailgating. In addition, it has an insulation of 3 inches thick and features an impenetrable seal. Apart from using it for keeping food, ice, drinks and perishable goods, you can also use it as a table top, bench, and stool. The non-skidlid can also be used as a cutting board.
It also features inbuilt lock for safe closure. Lastly, it has a rotomolded handle and body with long lasting latches.
Pros
Cons
Summary :- This one has an excellent ice retention capacity. It is durable and comes with drain spouts. It is also spacious.
05. Outdoor Recreational Company of America Cooler (ORCA) with Lid & Bottom
ORCA with Lid & Bottom coolers is among the most reliable camping coolers you can ever find. ORCA coolers are among the most reliable coolers you can find on the market and this cooler is not an exception. It will keep your food and refreshing drinks safe since it features an integrated insulation. It is able to keep any perishable goods for a long time at 90 degrees temperatures. Additionally, it has a rotomolded construction and as a result, it is durable and won’t crack or leak easily.
This construction also enables it to withstand scrapes, bumps and other impacts which can cause damage. You shouldn’t worry when investing in this cooler since it comes with a lifetime warranty. This gives you a guarantee that you are investing in a dependable and efficient cooler.
Another exceptional thing about it is the attached cargo net which provides extra storage space inside the unit. You can store delicate items which you would like to isolate from the heavier items. This cargo net protects your items from ice and water which might cause damage. Check the best price of ORCA with Lid & Bottom from here.
Pros
Cons
Summary :- This one is a top quality cooler which comes with a lifetime warranty. It also comes with a cargo net which creates more storage space.
06. Pelican Elite 50 Quart Cooler
Pelican Elite 50 Quart cooler is a very unique model which has a high rating on Amazon. It is a small cooler with a robust quality. It is very efficient and it can hold up to 12 gallons.
This capacity is sufficient for anglers, beach lovers and campers. The best things you will like about the unit is that it comes with a lifetime warranty which gives you an assurance that you are purchasing a reliable cooler. Apart from the warranty, it comes with other additional features which includes; a measuring board, self-draining cup holders and molded handles for easy transportation. It also comes with anti-shear hinge system, stainless steel bottle opener and molded-in tie-down slots.
Furthermore, it features head gaskets and isolation walls which provides an excellent ice retention of up to 10 days. This means that the device can keep your drinks frozen for more than a week. Additionally, it comes with quality latches which seals the lid to prevent air from exiting. It has a robust polyethylene shell which enables it to withstand harsh conditions. Lastly, it comes with non-skid feet which give it stability.
Pros
Cons
Summary :- The best thing about this cooler is that it comes with non skid feet which boost stability. It also comes with self-draining cups holders.
07. Thermik High Performance Roto-molded Cooler, 45 qt, White
Here is another high-end cooler you should consider. The first thing you will notice about this unit is the rugged design which allows it to withstand some hard tasks.
It also comes with a textured lid with reliable latches. The thick urethane insulation keeps ice for up to 5 days. To make your work easier when opening, it has a vacuum release knob which allows the lid to open easily. The freezer grade seal ensures that air does not leak from the cooler.
You should also note that it comes with rubber feet which prevents it from slipping or sliding. This ensures that it remains stable even when you have placed it at the back of your car. Unlike others, it comes with two bottle openers on both sides which acts as a locking point for a padlock. This ensures that your items are safe and secure.
Inside the cooler, you will find a separator which also acts as a basket for dry goods or a cutting board. You will also find a drink holder which is attached on the outside. The device also comes with a 5 years warranty. Lastly, it features a screw-over plug tether which drains the melting ice. This plug is made of stainless steel that prevents it from getting lost. Would you like to learn more about Thermik High Performance Roto-molded Cooler, 45 qt, White? Check out why it has a very high rating on Amazon.
Pros
Cons
Summary :- This one comes with amazing features such as freezer grade seal, 2 bottle openers unlike others. It also comes with a 5 years warranty.
08. Seavilis Cooler (MILEE)
This one is among the most incredible Rotomolded coolers you will ever find. The best thing about Milee coolers is that they are available in different sizes which are; 45 quart, 35 quart, 60 quart and 75 quart.
One of the most important features you should check when buying a cooler is the handles. You will find that the handles which comes with these coolers are made of nylon and are very comfortable. You can easily remove them in case you don’t need them.
When using this cooler, you are assured that it won’t be damaged easily since it has a rotomolded thermoplastic construction. The antiskid feet provide a safe landing in case it falls. Unlike others, it features a pressure release button which allows you to open the cooler easily. Moreover, it features a refrigeration-D seal which provides an air tight seal. This ensures that your drinks or perishable goods are always in good condition.
Additionally, it comes with a T-latch system which ensures that everything in the cooler is safely locked. The latch is perfectly designed which enables it to withstand all conditions. It also features stainless locking plates which ensures that the latch is locked in place tightly. On top of that, it comes with a drain plug which enables you to open the cooler and drain water.
Lastly, it comes with a chopping board, basket and cup holders which allows you to separate things easily. Check out customer reviews from here.
Pros
Cons
Summary :- This one comes with amazing features such as freezer grade seal, 2 bottle openers unlike others. It also comes with a 5 years warranty.
09. Pelican Elite Soft Cooler
The first thing you will note about this cooler is that unlike others which comes with different features and accessories, this one has a straightforward design.
The robust construction enables it to provide an outstanding performance. To start with, it features a 840D TPU double coated material which makes it resistant to tear, cuts and scratches. As a result, it is among the best you should consider for outdoor activities. It also comes with a reliable latch system.
You should also note that it is manufactured from a non-skid material. This material is also used on the lid to make the cooler firm and lightweight. This one is a very rare feature which you cannot find in many coolers. Additionally, it has quick access dual locking system which enables the lid to remain tight. It also features a zipper which also provides a tight seal. Due to this, it is able to retain cold air inside the cooler. The unit comes with a 3-year warranty.
Pros
Cons
Summary :- This one comes with amazing features such as freezer grade seal, 2 bottle openers unlike others. It also comes with a 5 years warranty.
10. Coleman Heritage XP H2O Marine Portable Cooler, 150 Quart
Coleman Heritage 150 Quart comes last in our list but this doesn’t mean that it has a lower quality than others. However, it might not be as strong as the high-end models.
It is the best for those who are on a tight budget since it is among the most affordable coolers for camping you can find today. The most amazing thing about Coleman Heritage XP H2O is that it is spacious enough and can hold up to 223 cans of drinks. You will find that it can accommodate more items as compared to most of the high-end models. It measures 42 X 19 X 9 Inches.
Another thing you need to note is that it also has a good ice retention capacity of up to 7 days. For those in need of a lightweight cooler, this one might not be the best especially when full. It has a very efficient design which allows the lid to close tightly even without latches. In addition, it comes with 4 molded cup holders at the top. It also features 2-way handles which allows you to carry it comfortably.
Another awesome thing about the device is that it is odor resistant. Additionally, it features a UV protection. Check it now from Amazon before the price goes up
Pros
Cons
Summary :- This one comes with amazing features such as freezer grade seal, 2 bottle openers unlike others. It also comes with a 5 years warranty.
FAQ's
Answer: The key to packing a cooler for camping is to keep in mind that ice will eventually melt. This means you should pack the items that are less likely to spoil first, then fill with ice or other cold sources.
The most important advice I can give when packing a cooler for camping is that people would ideally want to focus on filling it up with foods before they put any ice in there. After the top of the cooler has been filled, take what remaining space there is and fill it with ice or another cold source like an ice brick or water bottles to help maintain the cool temperature within the cooler while exposed to external heat.
Answer:
When camping, the size of your cooler is important because it affects how quickly food will spoil. It takes around 6 hours for leftovers to go bad in a cooler that has frozen packs at the bottom and only ice on the top; but in an un-frosted cooler with no frozen packs inside, it can take up to 12 hours. Some people like to store hot versions of foods like soup or chili, but these need to be cooled before you put them in your soft sided camping coolers with no freezer packs.
Answer: The little that is known about yeti coolers is that they are manufactured in Arizona.
When it comes to the actual production location, they've been suspiciously silent on giving out specific information.
What is known though as a fact is that Yeti Coolers are made of environmentally friendly and sustainable materials.
The company with the best sales and customer service by far, however, seems to come from Engel Product which manufactures their coolers right here in Texas Hill Country. They do not use formaldehyde-based resins (which you'll find in most cooler brands), and manufacture everything domestically; meaning job growth for the United States as opposed to outsourcing jobs like other companies currently do with parts overseas.
Answer: Rtic coolers are made in Texas, USA
The return of the iconic brand to its birthplace has yielded strong momentum, including expanded distribution through six regional Alcoa warehouses Acbra-Texas Acbra- Missouri Acbra- Indiana Alcoa Vincennes plant and this year's introduction of five new models. With just over 2 million square feet of warehouse space at all facilities, Alcoa can ship product within 24 hours to more than 80% of U.S. residents. It is also worth noting that additional production efficiencies have led to lower prices on both current and new models targeting markets with zero percent margins for cooler substitutes (e.g., under $200).where is rtic coolers made
Answer:
A Yeti cooler is typically more expensive than your average cooler because they are made out of materials that don't lose coldness as quickly.
The major reason is due to the quality of insulation. The traditional means for insulating includes foam, plastic, and Styrofoam around an aluminum shell. However, these materials have a tendency to be less effective in preventing heat from getting in and less effective at maintaining hot things warm so their potential usefulness might not last as long. In fact, studies have shown that only 5% of the extra dollars you spend on a high-quality fridge go towards better insulation while 95% goes elsewhere such as higher energy efficiency or a brighter LED bulb inside the fridge.
Answer: Engel coolers are made in the United States, Mexico, Australia and Colombia.
Engel has operated with worldwide presence since 1994 on unique principles of providing customers only the highest quality products with respect to both concept and production. And the United States of America is proud of providing high quality jobs by making Engel Coolers "Made in America."
Engel Coolers is based in Torrance, California where stockkeeping units of product are fabricated carefully by skilled professionals using traditional construction methods plus sophisticated techniques for precision measurement and testing. Today it generates $350 million worth of products exported annually to over thirty countries around the world–and still growing! The tradition remains alive at home allowing more than 400 employees company-wide good employment security.
Answer: It's important to know the weight of a cooler when comparing coolers because it is important to understand the capacity and weight limitations of your cooler.
Typically, bigger coolers are heavier than smaller ones so don't get tricked into buying an off-brand that appears too small but actually has lots of wasted space. The bigger models usually have more insulation on the sides than on top so it'll retain cold better. But if you're mostly just packing snacks or taking food then probably won't matter.
Things to Consider Before Buying The Best Cooler for Camping
In recent years, it has become very difficult to determine the best cooler for camping since there are thousands of options out there. The following tips will be of great help when shopping for a cooler for camping.
Durability – Remember that the cooler will be subjected to a lot of abuse. Sometimes you will need to dump it at the end of your vehicle or it might even fall accidentally. Therefore, you need to look for a cooler that is made of long lasting materials. If possible, look for a unit that it UV resistant.
Portability- When you are heading to camping, loading and offloading the ice chest might not be an easy task if it is not lightweight. The best cooler should be very easy to carry.
Handles – A good cooler should come with comfortable handles which will allow you to lift it up and move with it easily.
Storage Capacity – The size of a cooler is determined in terms of quarts. If you have a small family, you can look for a small cooler but if you have a large family, you need to look for a cooler with at least 60 quarts.
Ice retention – A good cooler should have an excellent ice retention capacity. The best cooler should have an ice retention capacity of at least 6 days. This means it can keep your food and other perishable items safe for several days.
Warranty – The product’s warranty can help you determine the quality of a product. A good ice chest should have a warranty of at least 5 years. It would even be better if you purchase a product with a lifetime warranty.
This Is How We Did Our Research to Come Up With the Top 10 Camping Coolers
It can be very frustration when you invest in a cooler for camping only to realize that it is not reliable after several weeks or months. When shopping for a cooler, you need to ensure that you will get value for your money. To make your work easier, we did a lot of research to ensure that all the products in our list are indeed the best.
Firstly, our research was based on the customer’s experience. You will find that all the products in this list are top rated in various online stores and have a very high rating. We also compared the features and prices of the different prices to give you a list with affordable and very reliable options.
We also confirmed from various product experts about the quality of the coolers. You can also see that the products have a reasonable warranty which proves that they will meet your expectations. They are also made of strong materials which makes them durable.
Additionally, you will find that they have a perfect ice retention capacity and most of them comes with additional features such as a cutting board, bottle opener among other impressive features.
This means that you are assured that irrespective of your choice, the product you have selected will give you value for your money. Look for any of them now.
How to Prevent Ice from Melting In a Cooler
Here are some of the things you should do to prevent ice from melting.
1. Keep the icebox away from the sun
This one is obvious and it means that you should keep the cooler in the shade as much as you can.
2. Prepare the icebox
You can put a layer of crushed ice around the icebox a day or a night before you use the cooler. Cooling your icebox before greatly helps to prevent the ice from melting once you have place other items in the cooler.
3. Fill the icebox
Ensure there is no space on the icebox. The more items you have in the icebox the less air there is which needs to be cooled.
4. Don’t open the icebox frequently
Once you open the icebox, you allow hot air to get into the cooler. This also allows cold air to escape from the cooler.
5. Add salt
Adding some salt to the water before you freeze greatly helps to lowers the freezing temperatures. This means that the ice will be colder than the frozen fresh water. Seawater works better once you have added salt to the water.
6. Add drinks
Putting drinks in the icebox helps to prevent the ice from melting. The cold drinks prevent the block ice from melting.
6. Block ice
Block ice keeps the icebox cold as compared to crushed ice. When using block ice, you are assured that the ice will remain intact and won’t melt easily.
How to Make Block Ice for Cooler
If you would prefer to store your items cold for a long time, you need to use ice blocks in your cooler instead of ice cubes. Ice cubes melts faster than ice block due to their density. Instead of buying the ice blocks, you can make your own since it’s more cost effective than buying.
Follow this procedure;
- Measure the dimensions of your cooler using a measuring tape to ensure that ice block will fit.
- Use a plastic or a metallic pan with appropriate dimensions. You can use plastic dishwasher plans if you have a large cooler.
- Clean the pan using soapy water before you use it.
- Fill it with water to about 90% capacity and keep it on the counter which is adjacent to the freezer. When it freezes, the water will expand to create space at the top of the pan.
- Keep the pan in the freezer slowly to prevent spillage of water. The pan should sit on a flat surface. Now wait for about 12 hours for the cubes to form
The Bottom Line
If you are one of those who love camping, you need to invest in a quality cooler. This will ensure that your food and refreshing goods will last for several days when camping.
However, you need to be careful when buying a cooler since not every cooler on the market is of great quality. If you want the best, look for any cooler from our list. All of them are quality products and they all have a superb ice retention capacity.
They are also durable and easy to carry. Apart from that, they come with different features and prices which allows you to identify a suitable cooler easily. You can also find a reliable cooler with any budget. A good cooler should be portable, durable and should be spacious enough to accommodate your items.
Lastly, you need to check is the warranty, this will also guide you to determine the quality of a product. Consider all the things we have mentioned and you will be able to select a suitable cooler for your camping needs.
Also Read :
1. 12 Tips on how to keep Ice from Melting in a cooler
2. Best Air Mattresses for Camping
3. How to raise an air mattress off the floor
