The Best Carry Coolers For 2024

Sara Ryan By, Sara Ryan
Updated
Best Carry Coolers
Best Carry Coolers

Our Top Picks

1. Best of the Best: Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze 30 Can Zipperless HardBody Cooler

Featuring a patented, "flip-open" Zipperless lid for quick access to your items, this cooler includes Deep Freeze Performance Insulation with an integrated radiant heat barrier. The removable HardBody liner with SmartShelf. Read Review

2. Runner Up: Stanley 10-01623-104 The Easy-Carry Outdoor Cooler Stanley

With its high-density polyethylene outer shell, sturdy latches and durable rubber string, you can take it on any adventure without worry. Plus, the silicone gasket on the lid ensures superior insulation and makes this completely leak proof when the latches are locked. Read Review

3. Best Compatible: Igloo 30 Can Large Portable Insulated Soft Cooler Backpack Carry Bag

This spacious cooler backpack holds up to 30 12-ounce cans, with MaxCold insulation to keep your snacks and drinks cold. Enjoy plenty of storage compartments and adjustable straps for comfortable carrying. Read Review

4. Best Comfortable: CAMP-ZERO 20L Premium Cooler/Ice Chest with Carry Handle

This virtually indestructible cooler is made from rotomolded polyethylene for superior ice retention, and comes complete with a secure locking system, no-slip textured lid. Four molded cup holders, folding aluminum comfort grip handle, freezer grade gasket, stainless steel hardware and non-marring feet. Read Review

5. Best Portable: Igloo 70 qt IMX Lockable Insulated Molded Cooler Carry Handles

With Cool Riser Technology, this cooler elevates the body away from hot surfaces for improved cooling performance. Its injection-molded construction provides advanced durability, while UV inhibitors prevent sun damage. The molded-in side handles give you the option for two-handed lifting and loading Read Review

For anyone looking for the best carry cooler around, you’ve come to the right place. Carrying a cooler is a great way to keep food and drinks cold while on the go, and it’s also a convenient way to store and transport food for camping trips and outdoor activities. There are so many different coolers to choose from, and it can be hard to know which one is the best for your needs.

That’s why we’ve done the research to find the best carry coolers on the market, so you can make the right choice and enjoy your next outdoor adventure with ease. With the help of this guide, you’ll be able to find the perfect cooler for your needs, and get the most out of your outdoor experience.

We think the best carry coolers of 2024 is Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze 30 Can Zipperless HardBody Cooler. However, in order to provide the reader with a wider variety of alternatives, we recommend adding Stanley 10-01623-104 The Easy-Carry Outdoor Cooler Stanley if you are interested in purchasing another appealing one.

Here are the buying guides that we specially made for you guys. Follow all the words below for successful shopping!

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze 30 Can Zipperless HardBody Cooler
Our Score:
9.8
Arctic Zone

Patented, "flip open" Zipperless lid allows for quick access to food and drinks

Features FDA compliant HardBody liner with removable SmartShelf and insulated front pocket

Adjustable Backsaver shoulder strap with anti-slip shoulder pad centers load weight for easier carrying; interior liner dimensions: (L x W x H) 12.7" x 7.6" x 10.2"

Ultra Safe leak proof, easy clean interior lining; water and stain repellent, wipe clean exterior

Deep Freeze high performance insulation with radiant heat barrier reflects heat rather than absorbing it

TOUGH AND DURABLE: The high-density polyethylene outer shell, sturdy latches allow this cooler to take a beating with the durable rubber string you can hold Stanley vacuum bottle on the flat top. The cooler is made of only BPA-free materials.

EASY TO TRANSPORT: The heavy-duty top handle makes this cooler easy to grab and carry. The strings along the top can hold down a bottle or thermos giving you an extra free hand. It's large yet light, weighing only 3.9lbs when empty.

LIFETIME WARRANTY: ‘BUILT FOR LIFE’. Since 1913 we’ve promised to provide rugged, capable gear for food and drink, built to last a lifetime. It’s a promise we still keep. Stanley products purchased from Stanley Resellers come with a lifetime warranty.

LEAK PROOF: The silicone gasket on the lid ensures superior insulation and makes this completely leak proof when the latches are locked.

STAYS ICE COLD: The adventure cooler has double-wall foam insulation that keeps this ice box cold for up to 27 hours - nearly 40 percent longer than your typical coolers. It's ideal for camping, fishing, picnics, or your everyday work lunch box.

HOLDS UP TO 30 12-OUNCE CANS: Spacious cooler bag holds up to 30 cans; Measures 11.25 inches long, 8.75 inches wide, and 17.25 inches tall

MULTIPLE ORGANIZATION COMPARTMENTS: Keep cooler contents secure and organized in spacious internal main compartment; Outer front slip pocket conveniently stashes smaller items so you can easily access at any time

MaxCold insulation keeps food and drinks cooler longer

KEEPS DRINKS AND SNACKS COLD: Advanced insulation keeps drinks and food cold for a full day at the beach, lake, and more

CARRY COOLER IN COMFORT: Take this soft insulated portable cooler bag camping, hiking, fishing, or to a family picnic thanks to adjustable shoulder straps

Grizzly certified to be bear resistant when used with the appropriate locks, locks not included

Stainless steel hardware with non-marring feet

Built Ruggedly Cool with 5 Year Limited Warranty

Cooler Includes molded-in tie down channels to secure your cooler for all your Ruggedly Cool adventures

Enhanced wall thickness with freezer grade gasket for superior ice retention and also dry ice compatible

Virtually Indestructible rotomolded premium cooler with secure locking system and no slip textured lid with four molded cup holders

Holds up to 22 cans | 20 Liters | 5.28 Gallons | 21.13 Quarts

Folding aluminum comfort grip handle with no-lose screw in drain plug

Four self-draining cup holders are built into the lid

Injection-molded construction provides advanced durability

Molded-in side handles give you the option for two-handed lifting & loading

Cool Riser Technology improves cooling performance by elevating cooler body away from hot surfaces

UV inhibitors prevent sun damage

Two Molded-In Cup Holders with Drain Channels

5 Year Warranty

Grizzly certified to be bear resistant when used with the appropriate locks. Locks not included

Virtually Indestructible rotomolded premium cooler with secure locking system

Holds up to 12 cans | 10 Liters | 2.64 Gallons | 10.6 Quarts

Folding aluminum comfort grip handle with stainless steel hardware and non-marring feet

Enhanced wall thickness with freezer grade gasket for superior ice retention and dry ice compatible

Molded-in tie down channels to secure your cooler for all your Ruggedly Cool adventures

✔3 USEFUL CARRIER WAYS: Soft pack cooler come with a soft and wide shoulder, you could carry the food and drink easily, also suitable for fishing in the lake. One reinforced top strap and two reinforced side handle straps design, if the ice was too heavy, two person could easily take the sides straps, start your weekend right now.

✔100% LEAK PROOF & WATERPROOF GUARANTEE: Insulated leak proof soft coolers use the airtight zipper, even the air can not through it( ensure the zipper was closed). Benefit with waterproof 840D nylon TPU, waterproof soft coolers can work well in beach, floating, fishing and road trip. (Attention: For the best leak-proof and waterproof performance, we strengthened the zipper, so it would be a little bit to zipped.)

✔22L SUPER LARGE CAPACITY: Leak-proof soft sided cooler has a large capacity you never seen before. 22L super large capacity can hold nearly 36 cans of beer or coke, meet your daily needed. Portable soft cooler dimensions: 25 1/4*10 3/4*17 inches. Taking ROCK BROS soft cooler to rob the bank, more money u can get.

✔SUPER PERFORMANCE OF COLD HOLDING: ROCK BROS leak proof soft cooler designed with 3 special insulation layers. 1- 420D Nylon TPU material inner with FDA identified, clean and healthy. 2- more than 28mm high density insulation foam in the middle, provide a excellent cold protection. 3- 840D hardest Nylon TPU outside. 3 unique material support up to 48h--32°F cold holding.

✔ROCK SOLID GUARANTEE: We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee. In next 3 years, if any issue or questions about our soft coolers, contact us anytime you want, we will be glad and pleasure to service you.

Grizzly certified to be bear resistant when used with the appropriate locks, locks not included

Holds 2 Wine Bottles plus 10 Cans or 6 Wine Bottles plus Ice or 20 Cans plus Ice

Folding aluminum comfort grip handle with stainless steel hardware and non-marring feet

Built Ruggedly Cool with 5 Year Limited Warranty

Cooler Includes molded-in tie down channels to secure your cooler for all your Ruggedly Cool adventures

Accommodates most tall bottles and includes removable divider/cutting board and ideal for most wine bottles

Enhanced wall thickness with freezer grade gasket for superior ice retention and also dry ice compatible

Virtually Indestructible rotomolded premium cooler with secure locking system and no slip textured lid with 2 molded cup holders

9 Hydro Flask 20L Carry Out Soft Cooler
Our Score:
8.8
Hydro Flask

Removable cross-body strap

Large, accessible opening for loading, unloading and cleaning

Webbing loops easily attach Dry Storage accessories

20 L fits 38 cans without ice

Lightweight insulation keeps contents chilled for up to 24 hours

Exterior stash pocket

Food grade BPA-free liner with welded seams keep spills and splashes contained

KEEP YOUR COLD ONES CHILLED - Keep your cold items chilled with the Guide Gear Vertical Welded Soft Cooler Backpack. Perfect for those hot days of outdoor activities. Dimensions: 12" x 7.5" x 17"h. 18 can cooler bag.

FOAM INSULATION - Insulated cooler bag with foam insulation keeps ice, cans, and food chilled. A fully waterproof cooler bag of 840-denier nylon with TPU coating on both sides.

PADDED STRAPS FOR EASY CARRY - The perfect carry cooler bag for picnics, camping, travel, road trips, and more. An adjustable padded strap on top for easy carry

KEEPS CONTENTS COOL FOR UP TO 3 DAYS - This portable cooler bag keeps contents cold for up to 3 days (pre-chill cooler and food items for best results). Cool off instantly with a chilled drink.

LEAK PROOF-PERFORMANCE - Rolltop seal and fully welded interior make this leak-proof cooler bag top-notch in performance. Built to last and perform at a fraction of the price of other brand cooling bags.

Things To Look For When Buying best carry coolers

There are numerous factors to consider when looking for the best carry coolers to purchase. The easiest way to figure out the right one is to read reviews from people who have already purchased it.

Throughout this article, we will go over certain most important factors to consider when purchasing best carry coolers. Please take your time reading and studying the items listed below!

Cooler Latch And Closure Systems

The cooler's closure or latch is a key feature of premium models and will play a major role in cooling performance. Two rubber T-handles are a common feature on high-end, hard-sided coolers. They keep the lid in place and prevent it from opening. They are extremely sturdy and user-friendly.

Cooler Drain Systems

Many of our hard-sided coolers have drainage systems that allow you to drain the water out once the ice is melted. This is usually a pop-off or screw-on cap located at the bottom of cooler. Simply remove it and let the water flow out.

Wheeled (Rolling) Coolers

We mentioned above that if you have cooler needs such as mobility and large capacity or maximum ice retention it is a good idea to look into a hard-sided rolling model. These wheeled monsters can still be difficult to maneuver on uneven terrain, and will need assistance if there is no clear path. A rolling cooler is a good choice for camping, tailgating or days at the beach.

Cooler Construction

There are two main types of construction techniques used to make premium hard-sided coolers: injection molding and rotational molding. Yeti popularized rotomolding (even though they weren't technically the first company to do so) and is the dominant market at the top end. This type of cooler is made from a single, continuous piece of plastic which is then rotated to form the desired shape. These coolers have fewer stress points, so they are more likely to break under pressure. They also feature a thicker outer shell that ensures exceptional durability. Cost and weight are the main drawbacks.

Ice Retention And Cooling Capabilities

Ice retention is one of the most difficult things to determine when researching coolers. This is largely due to external factors. The temperature of the air and direct sunlight have a significant impact. Ice quantity is also important. Most brands suggest a ratio of 2:1. You should also open the lid as often as possible to let warm and cold air into your cooler. Pre-chilling your cooler before loading it is a good idea to ensure maximum efficiency. To reduce the cooler's interior temperature, you should fill it with ice at least for a couple of hours. Once you are ready to go, add fresh ice in the right ratio. You can also expect your cooler to become pre-warmed if it is left out in the sunlight before you load it up.

Weight And Portability

Weighing your cooler is an important factor for those who will be carrying it or moving it around regularly. For models with less capacity, they can weigh as little as 10-15 pounds and up to 50+ for those that have 75+ quarts storage. This number goes up dramatically when you load it down with food and drinks. Even though the handles are made of rope, some are plastic and others are nylon. They are too heavy to be carried for extended distances. We recommend wheels if portability is important. They are easier to carry for longer periods of time and more convenient for one person, so they're less burdensome.

Cooler Sizes (Capacities)

A few things to consider before we get started: Size. Importantly, coolers do not measure the interior capacity of all models. Some coolers use cans to measure interior capacity, others use liters or quarts. However, most manufacturers use quarts as a unit of measure. We've used that measurement in this article when it was possible. A final point: Don't let the product name fool you.

Bear-Resistant Ratings

Many top-rated hard-sided coolers can be listed as being bear-resistant. This is an important consideration if you are camping in bear territory. You should specifically look out for IGBC ratings. This indicates that a cooler has been tested and is in compliance with their regulations. You should ensure your cooler is included if you plan to travel in bear-proof gear or frequent backcountry areas.

FAQs

How do I keep food and beverages cold in my Carry Cooler?

Answer: Carry Coolers are designed to keep food and beverages cold for up to 8 hours. Use ice packs or fill the cooler with ice to maximize cooling time.

What should I do if my Carry Cooler is leaking?

Answer: If your Carry Cooler is leaking, check the gasket and lid to make sure they are properly sealed. If the seal is broken, you may need to replace it. If the seal appears to be intact, check the inside of the cooler for any cracks or damage. If the cooler is cracked or damaged, it may be time for a new Carry Cooler.

How do I clean my Carry Cooler?

To clean your Carry Cooler, first empty out any remaining contents and then rinse the interior with warm, soapy water. Then, use a cloth or a soft-bristled brush to scrub away any dirt or debris. Rinse again with clean, warm water before drying the inside and outside of the cooler with a dry cloth.

How do I store my Carry Cooler?

When storing your Carry Cooler, be sure to leave it empty and dry with the lid open to allow air to circulate. If storing outdoors, it is best to cover the cooler with a waterproof cover to protect it from the elements.

Can I put hot food in my Carry Cooler?

Yes, you can put hot food in your Carry Cooler. Keep in mind that the cooler’s insulation will help keep the contents cool, so be sure to add ice or frozen water bottles to keep the food cold.

Conclusion

The best carry coolers would be those who suit your needs and demands at the lowest possible cost. With more and more options available, it could be simple to find a design that satisfies all of these criteria. If you're not sure which one is best for you, take into account the Cordova Coolers 20 Extra Small Cooler Carry Strap for another option.


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About Sara Ryan

Sara Ryan

Sara Ryan is a freelance writer for CampFireHQ and avid diver. She first discovered her love for diving while on vacation in the Caribbean and has been hooked ever since. Sara loves exploring new dive sites and observing the fascinating creatures that live beneath the waves. As a native of Colorado, Sara enjoys spending her free time hiking and camping in the beautiful Rocky Mountains. She also enjoys writing about her adventures in diving and wildlife conservation.

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