If portability is a priority, we recommend looking at options with wheels, such as RovR’s RollR 45 or Igloo’s Trailmate Journey. Although these units still are decidedly hefty (the RovR is around 37 lbs. while the Igloo is just under 35), the wheels make them much easier and less cumbersome to transport for extended periods, even just for one person. If you are looking for maximum cooling power, premium rotomolded coolers from brands like YETI, RTIC, and ORCA are the clear leaders in keeping ice cold for long stretches. If you need ice for extended periods (we’re thinking of you, rafters and multi-day campers), the cost is worth it. But for those on day trips or shorter overnight outings with access to new ice, an inexpensive cooler like the Coleman Xtreme or Igloo ECOCOOL is a fine option. Grab your favorite outdoor snacks and hit the beach with this wheeled cooler from Igloo.
According to our testing, over a long enough period of time, a cooler with closed-cell foam will keep things cool for longer. But in the 24- to 48-hour range, we haven’t seen a huge difference between using ¾ inch of closed-cell or open-cell foam in a cooler. Closed-cell foam is considered a better insulator than open-cell foam because the tiny bubbles of gas in closed-cell foam remain independent from one another. Air bubbles that do not share cell walls and in effect stay insulated from one another are better at reducing the overall transfer of heat through the foam.
A boat-bound cooler, or one you plan to take to the beach or lake, will also need to be waterproof. Any cooler you plan to bring outside beyond your own deck or yard should be reasonably able to withstand the elements. If you choose a soft lgloo Cooler cooler on wheels, make sure the fabric can handle being loaded up with ice and the resulting leftover water. Most hard coolers on wheels can withstand water, from inside or out, but it’s still a factor you’ll want to double-check.
Many companies have spent an astronomical amount of money and time to convince people that they need to spend ridiculous sums just to keep a drink cold. Coolers aren’t complicated, which is a good thing to remember in the face of all that advertising. After spending many years evaluating more than 40 cooler models, we’ve chosen eight that are well made, well insulated, and well suited for a range of outings.
Thankfully, the market is packed with high-quality coolers that excel at everything from short day trips to week-long adventures. Below we break down our favorite hard-sided designs of 2023, including budget-friendly Coleman models, ultra-premium YETIs, and popular offerings from brands like RTIC, ORCA, Pelican, and igloo electric cooler more. For more background information, see our cooler comparison table and buying advice below the picks. In answer to some of the price premiums certain premium coolers were asking, Canyon Coolers decided to make premium coolers that ranked at the top of the class for ice retention and towards the bottom for price.
This is the “US Marine Corps” option of the cooler world – go anywhere, anytime, with any amount of chilled beers. Affordably priced, we have to say that the Crater Peak which has SuperFoam insulation, is leak-proof and easy to clean, is ideal for picnics, days at the beach, or log drives. Whenever you need a cold drink or want to keep food fresh, you can simply open it up and grab what you need. Leak resistant and using their innovative Cool Riser Technology, Igloo has once again created an affordable cooler that we are confident you’ll be delighted with if you were to purchase it. In fact, in terms of value for money, we have to say that this is one of the best coolers with wheels on our list.
Igloo is back once again and this time with their 60-quart Transformer Roller cooler which offers up ample storage and features that will be extremely handy when you go camping, hiking or fishing. Any ice that you store inside to keep food and drinks cool will last a good 24-hours on hot days and even longer on colder days. Although this is a fairly basic standing cooler on wheels, because it is made by Igloo, you can be confident that you’re getting great value for money. It has a solid build, will keep ice cold for as long as five days at a time, and has features such as cup holders, telescopic handle, and a mobile stand that you can use to place your phones, keys, or anything else of importance.