Best Coolers for Every Occasion: Camping, Picnics, Tailgating and More

Best Coolers for Every Occasion: Camping, Picnics, Tailgating and More

A variety of coolers for different uses, including hard-sided, soft-sided, and wheeled coolers.A variety of coolers for different uses, including hard-sided, soft-sided, and wheeled coolers.

Updated on November 6, 2024

Keeping your food and drinks cold is essential for outdoor adventures, parties, and everyday use. Whether you’re planning a camping trip, a backyard barbecue, or just need a reliable way to transport groceries, a high-quality cooler is a must-have. But with so many options on the market, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. This comprehensive guide breaks down the best coolers in various categories, considering factors like ice retention, durability, portability, and special features. We’ve tested and reviewed top contenders to help you find the perfect cooler for your needs and budget.

Top Cooler Picks for Every Need

Choosing the right cooler depends on how you plan to use it. Here are our top recommendations across several key categories:

Best Overall: Yeti Roadie 24 Hard Cooler

A variety of coolers for different uses, including hard-sided, soft-sided, and wheeled coolers.A variety of coolers for different uses, including hard-sided, soft-sided, and wheeled coolers.

$250 at Yeti

The Yeti Roadie 24 earns the top spot for its exceptional durability, impressive ice retention, and versatile size. It’s built to withstand rugged adventures, featuring a robust construction that can handle bumps and drops. The Roadie 24 is tall enough to accommodate wine bottles and compact enough for easy transport. While it’s not entirely leakproof, its superior insulation and secure latch system keep contents cold for extended periods.

Pros:

  • Durable construction: Built to last.
  • Fits wine bottles: Accommodates taller items.
  • Available in multiple sizes and colors: Options for every need.

Cons:

  • Not completely leakproof: Potential for minor spills.

Best Wheeled Cooler: BrüTank 55-Quart Rolling Cooler

BrüTank 55-Quart Rolling CoolerBrüTank 55-Quart Rolling Cooler

Shop on Brümate

Transporting heavy loads is a breeze with the BrüTank 55-Quart Rolling Cooler. Its all-terrain wheels effortlessly navigate various surfaces, from sand to gravel. The cooler boasts exceptional ice retention, keeping contents cold for up to a week. A convenient built-in drink tap allows for easy beverage dispensing. While some parts may lack durability, its overall performance and features make it a top choice for large gatherings and extended outings.

Pros:

  • All-terrain wheels: Smooth rolling on any surface.
  • Excellent ice retention: Keeps ice for up to a week.
  • Built-in drink tap: Convenient beverage dispensing.

Cons:

  • Durability concerns with some components: Potential for breakage.

Best Cooler for Camping: Yeti Roadie 48

$400 at YETI

The Yeti Roadie 48 combines the rugged durability of Yeti with the convenience of wheels. Its puncture-resistant wheels and telescoping handle make it easy to maneuver over rough terrain. The spacious interior provides ample storage for food and drinks, and the durable construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of camping. While it comes with a higher price tag, its performance and features justify the investment for serious campers.

Pros:

  • Puncture-resistant wheels: Handles rough terrain.
  • Telescoping handle: Easy to pull and maneuver.
  • Durable construction: Built for camping adventures.

Cons:

  • Pricey: A significant investment.

Best Cooler for Tailgating: Igloo Trailmate Journey

Shop on Igloo

The Igloo Trailmate Journey is packed with features that make it the ultimate tailgating companion. It boasts all-terrain wheels, cup holders, a butler tray, dry storage pockets, and even a mobile device stand. With a 70-quart capacity, it can hold a substantial amount of food and drinks. While it lacks a latch, its impressive features and competitive price make it an excellent value for tailgaters.

Pros:

  • Feature-rich: Includes cup holders, butler tray, dry storage, and more.
  • Large capacity: Holds up to 112 cans.
  • All-terrain wheels: Easy to transport.

Cons:

  • No latch: May not be completely secure.

Best Water Cooler: Oyster Tempo

Shop on Oyster

The Oyster Tempo is designed specifically for keeping water cold, eliminating the need for ice. Its insulated walls and cold pack system rapidly chill beverages and maintain a consistent temperature throughout the day. While it’s heavier and pricier than traditional coolers, its leakproof design, sustainable materials, and ease of maintenance make it a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize cold, refreshing water.

Pros:

  • No ice needed: Maximizes storage space.
  • Leakproof: Prevents spills.
  • Sustainable materials: Eco-friendly choice.

Cons:

  • Heavy: Can be difficult to carry.
  • Expensive: Higher price point.

Best Smart Cooler: Bodega Refrigerator and Portable Freezer

Bodega Refrigerator And Portable FreezerBodega Refrigerator And Portable Freezer

$259.99 at Amazon

The Bodega Refrigerator and Portable Freezer offers the unique advantage of dual cooling zones, allowing you to refrigerate and freeze items simultaneously. It’s powered by multiple sources, including solar energy, AC outlets, and car adapters. With Wi-Fi connectivity, you can control the temperature remotely via an app. While app setup can be challenging, its innovative features and versatility make it a top choice for tech-savvy users.

Pros:

  • Dual cooling zones: Fridge and freezer in one unit.
  • Multiple power sources: Versatile operation.
  • Wi-Fi enabled: Remote temperature control.

Cons:

  • Difficult app setup: Can be frustrating to configure.

Cooler Buying Guide: Key Considerations

Size and Capacity

Consider how much you need to carry. Solo trips require smaller coolers, while large gatherings demand greater capacity. Measure the space you have available for storage and transportation.

Ice Retention

Look for coolers with thick insulation and tight seals to maximize ice retention. Consider features like freezer-grade gaskets and rotomolded construction for superior performance.

Portability

Think about how you’ll be transporting the cooler. Wheeled coolers are ideal for longer distances, while backpack coolers are convenient for hiking and shorter trips. Lightweight options are easier to carry, but may sacrifice durability.

Durability

Choose a cooler built to withstand the demands of your intended use. Hard-sided coolers are generally more durable than soft-sided options. Look for features like reinforced corners and robust latches for added protection.

Special Features

Consider features that enhance convenience and functionality, such as cup holders, built-in bottle openers, dividers, and drain plugs. Smart coolers offer advanced features like temperature control and app connectivity.

Types of Coolers

Hard-Sided Coolers:

Durable and offer superior ice retention, but can be heavy.

Soft-Sided Coolers:

Lightweight and portable, but less durable and may not keep ice as long.

Backpack Coolers:

Convenient for hands-free carrying, ideal for hiking and short trips.

Wheeled Coolers:

Easy to transport heavy loads over long distances.

Powered Coolers:

Electrically powered coolers that offer refrigeration and freezing capabilities, often with advanced features.

By carefully considering these factors and exploring the different types of coolers available, you can confidently choose the best cooler to meet your specific needs and ensure your food and drinks stay cold and fresh wherever you go.