The process is simpler and cheaper than rotomolding and allows for greater precision because of the molded shapes. But they’re made with multiple pieces—unlike the single, uninterrupted form with rotomolding—which can lead to a drop in durability and added susceptibility to cracking. That being said, a high-end build like RTIC’s 52 Ultra-Light stacks up favorably to top rotomolded coolers in overall toughness.
This cooler recently went through an update which resulted in a more modern appearance and slight improvements to build quality. We also like the mobility thanks to the wheels and extending carrying handle. However, it is a bit limited in how well it cools and the lid can be a little finicky. This product has good cooling performance and we recommend using ice packs instead of ice for it.
The IMX and BMX are similar coolers, but they are made differently. The BMX coolers are made with blow-molded construction while the IMX is made with plastic injection molding. This is a cheaper cooler because it is not made to hold ice for 4 days. This cooler will work great if you have the right expectations. This igloo cooler on wheels is very reasonable and will roll nicely to all your destinations.
The Igloo Daytripper is an igloo soft cooler that is a backpack. You can use them as a backpack if you are flying (don’t bring the knives when you fly) and then when you arrive you have your cooler. The lid has a unique and convenient dry storage compartment that is great for small items you don’t want to keep in your pockets.
Whether it’s finding great products or discovering helpful advice, we’ll help you get it right (the first time). Skip the Styrofoam next time you need a disposable cooler. The paper pulp of the Recool composts easily in the backyard, and it performs basically as well as any cheap single-use cooler. The handle and wheels on the Yeti Tundra Haul are the best we’ve come across. This cooler feels like you can roll it across anything without the handle straining or bending, or the wheels breaking.
If we have enough space, our preferred method is to use both block and crushed ice together, and YETI has more great tips here. Many of the top hard-sided coolers are listed as bear-resistant, which is a worthwhile consideration should you be camping in bear country. However, not all coolers listed as bear-resistant carry this certification—you can see a full list of certified coolers here. If you frequent the backcountry or will be traveling where bear-proof gear is required, make sure your cooler is on the list.
If you would like to check out our larger overview of each product look right below these and you will see all of them in order of their overall ranking, from highest to lowest. Item prices do not include fees for pickup, shipping or delivery (if applicable) unless noted in the item description. Item prices may vary between online (for pickup, shipping or delivery) and in club.
There are a few accessories we love to use with our coolers. These are very easy to use do not create the mess you get from ice. Some products you put into your cooler don’t like to get wet . If are looking for a similar product but with more ice retention and a little higher quality, you will want to try the Igloo Overland Cooler. This is a comparable cooler that is just slightly smaller in size but is made for a little more rigorous use. The cooler has some very nice pockets so you can put your sunscreen, phones, or other similar-sized items that can be hard to find a spot to put them, so they don’t get dirty or lost.
ROAM is primarily a rooftop tent manufacturer and well regarded among serious outdoor-goers like overlanders and those who like to get off the grid. But their foray into coolers hasn’t gone unnoticed, combining the ruggedness and utility that ROAM is known for with a myriad of functional features. And importantly, all these features are integrated nicely and have the same solid and confidence-inspiring feel as the rest of the aptly named Rugged. All of that is well and good, but igloo ice chest what really sets the Igloo MaxCold apart is its outstanding level of performance. In my tests, I filled each cooler with 3 pounds of ice, then tracked their internal ambient temperatures on a minute-by-minute basis over 48 hours in a climate-controlled room set to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Among all 12 of them — including four of those expensive, rotomolded coolers — the MaxCold finished in third place, managing to tie the $329 Bison Gen 2 and beating the $400 Rovr Rollr 60.