Best Igloo Cooler: Buying Guide 2024

Sarah Combs By, Sarah Combs
Updated
Igloo Polar 120 Qt. Cooler
Image credit: Amazon.com

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Igloo Polar 120 Qt. Cooler

When you need to store a lot of food and drinks, the Igloo Polar Cooler 120 Qt. is the perfect solution. This cooler features an easy-pour spout and reinforced swing-up handles with tie-down loop feature to make hauling it around a breeze. The plastic drain plug is great for hooking up your hose for easy draining and on this model, it's threaded so you can enjoy hassle-free draining. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: Igloo BMX 52 Quart Cooler with Cool Riser Technology, Fish Ruler

The Igloo BMX 52 Quart Cooler with Cool Riser Technology offers an integrated ruler on the lid which easily estimates your catch. A Built-in tie-down loop keeps the cooler in place during transport. Read Review

3. Best Economical: Igloo Heavy-Duty 25 Qt BMX Ice Chest Cooler with Cool Riser Technology

The Igloo Heavy Duty 25 qt BMX Cooler offers the perfect blend of convenience, performance and durability. The exterior is constructed of thick, heavy-duty 16 gauge steel. The lid is made with soft pliable plastic that won't crack or break, while an ergonomic handle provides a comfortable grip. Read Review

4. Best Realiable: Igloo 5 Gallon Portable Sports Cooler Water Beverage Dispenser

Igloo 5 Gallon Portable Sports Cooler Water Beverage Dispenser is perfect for any outdoor activity. The reinforced handles and lid are designed to resist pressure and the product will last longer than other dispensers on the market. Read Review

If you love camping, and especially if you love spending time in the outdoors during the summer months, then an igloo cooler is sure to catch your eye. These campers are perfect for those who want to spend a few nights away from home with a small group of family or friends. A functional outdoor kitchen is a great way to enjoy the great outdoors during any season, not just summer.

These campers are also great for those who have limited space and don’t mind living out of their vehicle during camping trips due to their small size. This article will discuss everything from choosing the right igloo cooler for your needs, to proper care and maintenance of your new outdoor appliance.

Before making our recommendations, our specialists spend substantial time researching and analyzing your requirements. Then we found the Igloo Polar 120 Qt. Cooler is the greatest choice for its high-quality performance. If you're looking for another one, consider Igloo BMX 52 Quart Cooler with Cool Riser Technology, Fish Ruler.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Igloo Polar 120 Qt. Cooler
Our Score:
9.7
Igloo
  • Ultratherm insulated body and lid keep ice for 5 days at 90 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Dual snap-fit latches secure lid closure
  • Reinforced swing-up handles with tie-down loop feature
TOP Choice #2 Igloo BMX 52 Quart Cooler with Cool Riser Technology, Fish Ruler
Our Score:
9.5
Igloo
  • Rubberized T-grip latches keep lid secure. Threaded drain plug is garden hose compatible and features a non-slip, easy-grip stainless steel tethered cap
  • UV inhibitors protect the cooler against sun damage for extended life. Capacity: 83 12-ounce cans, 52 quarts (49 liters)
  • Integrated ruler on lid easily estimates your catch.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT & KEEPS ICE FROZEN: Externally, the cooler measures 19. 59" L x 13. 25" W x 15. 70" H. On its own, the BMX 25 QT Cooler weighs about 11. 29 lbs.
  • THE PERFECT GIFT: This cutting-edge ice chest makes the ideal gift for individuals that like camping, fishing, tailgating, beach trips, and other outdoor activities.
  • STURDY LATCHES & ERGONOMIC HANDLE: The BMX cooler comes with a unique t-grip latch system. The rubberized latches secure the lid to lock in the cold.
  • Keeper cord affixes lid to cooler for cleanliness and loss prevention
  • Recessed and angled drip-resistant spigot for easy dispensing
  • Reinforced handles for strength and product longevity
  • Molded side scoop handles for ease of loading and unloading
  • Ultratherm insulated body keeps cold for a long time
  • Wipe interior and exterior surfaces clean before storing and between uses. To prevent stains and odors, empty cooler of contents after use
  • Indestructible rust-resistant stainless-steel screws, lid strap and hinged latch
  • Stain and odor resistant liner
  • Dimensions 30.06in L x 16.5in W x 16.13in H
  • 8' long power cord plugs into any 12V DC receptacle (e.g. cigarette lighter) for portable use - good universal fit in 12V outlet
  • Quiet brushless motor and convection cooling with a fan to circulate cold air
  • Ergonomic design features a curved back that comfortably hugs your side while carrying
  • Cushion grip handle for comfortable towing.
  • Virtually indestructible stainless steel hinges.
  • Another Igloo Industry First: Horizontal telescoping handle requires 50% less lifting effort.
  • Skid pads add extra layer of corner protection and a Diamond plate metal insert reinforces the ruggedness and durability
  • Rubberized T-latches secure lid closure and lock in the cold
  • Extra-thick foam walls and insulated lid for best-in-category cooling performance
  • Flip-up tow handle reduces towing force by up to 50%
  • Oversized, durable hinges with stay-open detent

What to Look For in a best igloo cooler?

Some consumers are concerned about ordering best igloo cooler. Various aspects should always be explored before making big product choices. Our expertise on best igloo cooler will help determine the best possible decision.

Please keep in mind the following points before selecting best igloo cooler:

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

FAQs

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

Our developers make it reliable for the info by their rich experience. best igloo cooler data is also kept up to date on any occasion. You might relax knowing that the information is updated and accurate.

Try reporting any best igloo cooler problems or inconsistencies so that we can make your life better. Thanks to your feedback, we'll push for even greater quality levels!


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About Sarah Combs

Sarah Combs
Sarah Combs is a visual editor who loves to travel and hike. She enjoys taking photographs of her journeys, which help her to remember the beautiful places she's been to. Sarah is grateful for the opportunities that she has had to see the world and looks forward to continuing to explore new places in the future. Sarah is the editor of CampfireHQ since 2021 and has written on a variety of topics, from camping, and hiking to other outdoor guides.

Read Sarah's full bio