The Complete Guide For Best Hard Coolers Of 2024

Hailey Abbott By, Hailey Abbott
Updated
Coleman Rolling Cooler
Image credit: Amazon.com

Our Top Picks

1. Best Of The Best: Coleman Rolling Cooler

This Coleman Rolling Cooler offers a lid that supports up to 250 pounds, giving you a comfy place to sit while watching the game. It also has molded cup holders, making it easy to carry drinks and snacks in or out. It comes with a telescoping handle for easy storage so you can take it where you need it most. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: Igloo BMX 25 Quart Cooler with Cool Riser Technology, Fish Ruler

Your party's going to be a blast with this newly designed Igloo BMX 25 Quart Cooler. The Cool Riser Technology molded base elevates the cooler away from hot surfaces and improves cooling performance. MaxCold body construction provides advanced cooling performance and up to 4-day ice retention. Read Review

3. Best Comfortable: Coleman Ice Chest | Coleman 316 Series Wheeled Hard Coolers

Whether you’re on the go or staying at home, bring your favorite drinks and snacks along with you in the Coleman 316 Series Wheeled Hard Cooler. Its leakproof channel drain plug makes cleanup easy, and the lid is recessed for easy access to contents. The cooler has a large capacity of up to 160 cans, so it’s perfect for picnics and tailgate parties. Read Review

4. Best Economical: Igloo BMX 52 Quart Cooler with Cool Riser Technology

This cutting-edge ice chest makes the ideal gift for individuals that like camping, fishing, tailgating, beach trips and other outdoor activities. Featuring a modern design and cool riser technology, this unique ice chest is perfect for all occasions. This cooler is equipped with an insulated lid, cooling chamber and multiple carrying handles making it easy to carry on any adventure. Read Review

If you’re looking for the most effective way to keep your beverages cool in the summer heat, look no further than a quality hard cooler. A hard cooler is a refrigerator or freezer with extra insulation and airtight walls that keeps your food and drinks cold for longer. You can find models that are perfect for home use; others are built for commercial purposes, such as restaurants or bars.

No matter what type of hard cooler you need, we’ve got you covered with this list of the best options available on the market today. From compact units to large freezers, compact units to semi-compact models, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s take a look at what makes them so good and which one is right for your needs.

Our team had to focus on researching for 16 hours to get such results for readers. This type of study uses customer star ratings and customer interviews on their product experiences. In addition, Coleman Rolling Cooler is one of the most wonderful models available, and it comes highly recommended by us. We also show the other fantastic alternatives with a complete guide which is worth your consideration below.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Coleman Rolling Cooler
Our Score:
9.8
Coleman
  • Have-a-seat lid: Closed lid supports up to 250 pounds
  • Xtreme Technology; Insulated lid and extra wall insulation keep ice up to 5 days in temperatures as high as 90°F
  • Telescoping handle: For easy pulling and compact storage
TOP Choice #2 Igloo BMX 25 Quart Cooler with Cool Riser Technology, Fish Ruler
Our Score:
9.6
Igloo
  • MaxCold body with 20% thicker foam and insulated lid provide advanced cooling performance and up to 4-day ice retention.
  • Cool Riser Technology molded base elevates the cooler away from hot surfaces and improves cooling performance.
  • Rust-resistant, stainless-steel hinge rods and hardware provide extended performance.
  • LEAKPROOF: Channel drain plug
  • Have-A-Seat LID: Closed lid supports up to 250 lbs.
  • FULLY INSULATED: Lid and body Keeps the Ice up to 5 days in temperatures as high as 90°F
  • HEAVY-DUTY CONSTRUCTION: This insulated cooler was blow-molded for added durability.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT & KEEPS ICE FROZEN: Externally, the cooler measures 32. 2 x 17. 3 x 16. 8 inches. On its own, the BMX 72 QT Cooler weighs about 18. 70 lbs. , which is about half the weight of other brands.
  • STURDY LATCHES & ERGONOMIC HANDLE: The BMX cooler comes with a unique t-grip latch system.
  • Temperature Retentive: The 3-inch foam insulated walls plus the cool-lift design feature will make worrying about your ice melting a thing of the past.
  • Mobile And Multifaceted: Use the heavy-duty rope handles to take the 65 anywhere and when you need an extra hand—this cooler doubles as a step stool, tabletop, or cutting board.
  • A Sidekick For Every Adventure: Rotomolded construction makes this cooler tough enough to handle every excursion—from off-roading in Moab to the peak of any mountain.
  • Recessed, triple-snap drain plug Four self-draining cup holders with lockable lid or tie-down loops
  • Ultraviolet inhibitors protect against sun damage
  • Ultratherm Insulation in body and lid holds ice up to 5 days
  • Thermal Properties: All hard-sided coolers are pressure injected with up to two inches of Ecomate polyurethane foam for optimal cooling, no global warming potential, no ozone depletion potential, and is made with no VOCs
  • Cooler Made in USA, Imported Shoulder Strap
  • Lid Gasket: Our lids seal with a rubber gasket to keep cold air trapped extending the longevity of your ice
  • DRY BOX: Built in dry storage compartment features a push button latch and tablet/phone easel slot
  • VOLUME: True 14 quart internal volume (holds 6 cans and 2 1lb Pelican Ice packs)
  • FEATURES: Carry handle, molded-in cup holders, press and pull latches, stainless steel bottle opener with cap-catching magnet, and molded-in tie-down slots
  • MATERIALS: Hard Cooler Made of Heavy-Duty Polyethylene, Urethane, Polypropylene, Nylon Rope Handles
  • SIZE: 65 Quart | PERFORMANCE: Up To 8-Day Ice Retention - Exceeds most premium priced coolers
  • SIZE-CAPACITY: This is a huge Cooler bag. Length: 13 Inches (excluding side pockets). Total Height: 14 Inches (both top & lower compartments). Width: 9.5 Inches. The hard bucket/liner can hold 25 normal soda cans (355 ml) without ice. BUCKET Dimension: Height: 10 Inches, Length: 12 Inches, Width: (Top width: 9 Inches, Bottom width: 8 Inches). Front Pocket: Length 11 inches and Height 8 inches.
  • 1680D FABRIC MATERIALS: Hard Liner cooler bag is made of Heavy-Duty, 1680D fabric, High-Density thick foam insulation and peva liner, large double zippers, strong Reinforced stitching, replaceable shoulder straps with metal buckles. 1680D polyester is stronger than commonly used 600D & 420D polyester for soft cooler, lunch bags, lunch boxes.
  • MANY POCKETS WITH LOTS OF ROOM: Top insulated compartment with zippered mesh pocket. Bottom large compartment insulated on all sides with thick EPE foam to maximize cooling. Large front Zippered pocket and two extra large side zipperd pockets. A small quick access pocket at front. Large pocket with ID pouch at the back and can be converted into luggage pass through.

What to Look For in a best hard coolers?

Different considerations must be taken during the shopping process. Study resources are obtained in a wide variety of ways. Thus, our staff is all here to lend a helping hand, advice, and solutions to your issues.

Please take a closer examination of the features below and that would be beneficial before your purchase of best hard coolers: 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

What Is The Best Hard Cooler?

There are many coolers. It really doesn't matter which cooler you choose. A cooler that is more resistant to damage will be the most suitable if you intend on using it every week.

Does Food Stay Cool In A Portable Cooler Without Ice?

But it will take longer than if you put ice inside the cooler. Insulation in the cooler stops food from heating up faster than if left out. The temperature of the cooler and how chilled the food were at the beginning will determine the time it takes to cool down. Even frozen foods will heat up faster if they are kept cool in a trunk compartment of a vehicle.

How Much Do Coolers Cost?

Consider what your cooler will be used for. If you need it to store food or drinks for several days or at extreme temperatures then more money is an investment in food safety. A cooler that is cheap and cheerful may suffice if you just need to chill a handful of drinks for an afternoon barbecue.

How Long Does A Cooler Stay Cold?

It all depends on how efficient the cooler is at insulation. This includes the temperature outside, initial temperature of food and its stacking. Food can be kept cold for up to 4 days with ice (the best), in ideal conditions. A high-end cooler may even keep it chilled for as long as 10 days.

Which Size Cooler Do I Need?

Although you might feel compelled to buy a large cooler, make sure it fits in the car. Smaller coolers can be lifted without the need for assistance. However, coolers with larger capacities can hold more ice and so tend to stay cool longer than smaller models.
Higher coolers can store bottles more upright. Models with recessed lids are better for loading items higher, but they may become warmer.

How Do I Clean My Cooler?

Warm water and dish soap will generally clean your cooler. You can also use warm water and bleach to remove stubborn stains or odors.

Can I Use Dry Ice In A Cooler?

Most times, the answer is yes. Some coolers can be damaged by dry ice, but the majority should work fine. However, you will need to cover dry ice with blankets or other insulators. A cooler designed for dry ice is best if you plan to use it every day. You won't have to do any special tasks because the cooler has compartments to store dry ice.

How Does A Portable Cooler Work?

Combining the insulation of the cooler with the ice you put inside, either ice cubes, ice packs, or foam, slows down warm air circulation and helps keep things cool.

When the latest info related to best hard coolers comes available, we will update it as soon as possible. Please check our websites frequently for the most up-to-date research data.

Our team is able to support you with many problems, even the out of best hard coolers. If you require support with your issues, please do not hesitate to contact us.


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About Hailey Abbott

Hailey Abbott
Hailey Abbott is an outdoor enthusiast and freelance writer for CampfireHQ. She has a passion for hunting and fishing, which she often enjoys with her family and friends. Hailey also enjoys staying active through sports such as golf, basketball, and softball. Hailey has worked as an editor for several years, providing content that is both accurate and engaging. She has also had the opportunity to interview numerous experts in various fields. This wealth of experience gives her a unique perspective when writing about the outdoors and other topics.

Read Hailey's full bio