Top 10 Most Popular Coolers Of 2024 To Stay Your Favorite

Katie Finn By, Katie Finn
Updated
Most Popular Coolers
Most Popular Coolers

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze 16 Can Zipperless Hardbody Cooler

The Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze 16 Can Zipperless Hardbody Cooler, Moss is perfect for all occasions. With our patented Zipperless lid and ColdBlock base, you'll never have to worry about missing the ice - no more missed opportunities to enjoy your favorite beverages. Read Review

2. Runner Up: Coleman Cooler

The Coleman Xtreme Cooler features the latest in Coleman technology. The insulated lid and extra wall insulation keep ice up to five days. Easy to carry handles with a no-crush design offer comfort and prevent spills. The smooth surfaces wipe clean easily, making this cooler easy to care for. Read Review

3. Best Easy To Clean: CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag

The perfect ice chest that will stay open even when empty. With the built-in patented SnapHinge and a sturdy soft sided cooler that pops up with ease, this is the perfect companion for your next outing. Bring your favorite meal or beverage essentials along with you on your next outing and fold it down when you're done. Read Review

4. Best Easy To Use: RTIC Hard Cooler

The RTIC 45 is a must-have for the summer. With a capacity to store drinks for the whole group, it’s the perfect size and features a cool-lift design that keeps ice frozen all day long. Whether it's in use as an ice chest, bar stool, or cutting board, you're sure to get plenty of use out of this cooler. Read Review

When the mercury drops and your night game is about to drop, reach for one of these amazing coolers. These coolers will keep your drinks ice cold for hours at a time. Whether you’re playing pool, tossing a football or enjoying a cool beverage in the basement, these refrigerated coolers are sure to come in handy before that big game.

These models run the gamut from budget-friendly options that get the job done to luxurious models that give you more bang for your buck. Many are built with special features like cup holders or baskets so they can double as extra storage space when not in use. Some have wheels so they can be moved easily if you don’t plan on using them outdoors often or if you live in an apartment where outdoor space is limited. Others are designed with kid-friendly features like large spouts and child locks so small hands don’t get into them unsupervised and curious fingers don’t accidentally activate the fan when playing around inside.

You can count on our team of experts who have spent over 15 hours conducting surveys through 44,530 real customer reviews. Because of this, we came to the conclusion that the best-reviewed product is Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze 16 Can Zipperless Hardbody Cooler. And Coleman Cooler is another choice for you while keeping the product's quality and functionality.

Our Top Picks

  • Deep Freeze Insulation: Deep Freeze performance insulation with radiant heat barrier and ColdBlock base protects your ice from the most intense heat; When filled completely with ice, this portable cooler keeps ice for up to 2 days
  • Hardbody Liner with Smartshelf: Allows you to keep hard stuff (like cans) separate from soft stuff (like sandwiches) so soft foods won’t get crushed; Easily removable to provide one large compartment
  • Comfortable and Convenient: Features an adjustable Backsaver shoulder strap that centers load weight for easier carrying and an anti-slip shoulder pad
  • Zipperless Beverage Cooler: 16 can cooler with our flip-open patented Zipperless lid for easy, quick access to food and drinks as well as an insulated from pocket
  • Easy to clean: Water and stain repellent exterior wipes clean with a damp cloth; Ultra Safe leak proof, easy clean lining
TOP Choice #2 Coleman Cooler
Our Score:
9.7
Coleman
  • HAVE-A-SEAT LID: Closed lid supports up to 250 lb.
  • Xtreme Technology; Insulated lid and extra wall insulation keep ice up to 5 days in temperatures as high as 90°F
  • Cup Holders: Molded Into the Lid to Keep Drinks Close and Prevent Spilling
  • COMFORT-GRIP HANDLES: No-crush design with positive stop for pinch-free carrying
  • EASY TO CLEAN: Smoother surface wipes clean easily; leak-resistant channel drain for easy draining without tilting
  • High Capacity: Holds Up to 100 Cans
TOP Choice #3 CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag
Our Score:
9.6
CleverMade
  • DIMENSIONS - Measuring 18.25" L x 12.25" W x 12" H and weighing 2.25 lbs. when empty; the cooler has a weight capacity of 55 lbs. and room for 50 cans
  • COLLAPSIBLE - Sturdy soft sided cooler pops up with ease so you can fill with your meal and beverage essentials; collapse when not in use for easy storing just about anywhere
  • VERSATILE - Perfect beach bag for toting snacks and drinks for a day in the sun; great for bringing lunch into work; grocery shopping, or as a travel cooler for a road trip with family
  • STRUCTURED - Opens and closes in a SNAP thanks to the built in patented SnapHinge; the perfect ice chest that will stay open even when empty
  • ACCESSORIES - Integrated bottle opener means one less thing to pack; the front zippered pouch is great for extra storage of valuables; and side handles as well as padded top handle makes toting a breeze
4 RTIC Hard Cooler
Our Score:
9.5
RTIC
  • 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 45 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 picnics in the Grand Canyon.
  • The Perfect Size: The 45 is small enough to carry alone but big enough to store drinks for the whole group.
  • Heavy-Duty Protection: The combination of durable rubber T-latches and molded tie-down slots will keep your food and beverages secure.
5 YETI Tundra 35 Cooler
Our Score:
9.3
YETI
  • The Tundra 35 dimensions are 20 in long x 16 1/8 in wide x 15 1/4 in high with an empty weight of 20 lbs NOTE: All Tundra models come standard with one dry goods basket
  • The YETI Tundra 35 is portable enough for one person to haul while still having an impressive carrying capacity of up to 20 cans with a recommended 2:1 ice-to-contents ratio
  • All Tundra coolers feature T-Rex Lid Latches constructed of heavy-duty rubber so you’ll never see another busted latch and has patented keeper technology
  • Ice stays ice thanks to up to 3 inches of PermaFrost Insulation and an extra thick FatWall design is certified Bear-Resistant
  • The Rotomolded Construction makes the Tundra armored to the core and virtually indestructible so wherever you decide to take it, this portable cooler’s sturdy construction will stand up to the rigors of the journey
6 Coleman Rolling Cooler
Our Score:
9.2
Coleman
  • Telescoping handle: For easy pulling and compact storage
  • Xtreme Technology; Insulated lid and extra wall insulation keep ice up to 5 days in temperatures as high as 90°F
  • Have-a-seat lid: Closed lid supports up to 250 pounds
  • High capacity: Holds up to 84 cans
  • Heavy-duty wheels: Effortless rolling over any terrain
  • Cup holders: Molded into the lid to keep drinks close and prevent spilling
7 YETI Tundra 45 Cooler
Our Score:
9.0
YETI
  • Ice stays ice thanks to up to 3 inches of PermaFrost Insulation and an extra thick FatWall design is certified Bear-Resistant
  • The Tundra 45 dimensions are 25 1/2 in long x 16 in wide x 15 ½ in high with an empty weight of 23 lbs NOTE: All Tundra models come standard with one dry goods basket.
  • All Tundra coolers feature T-Rex Lid Latches constructed of heavy-duty rubber so you’ll never see another busted latch and has patented keeper technology
  • The YETI Tundra 45 combines versatility with durability with a capacity of up to 26 cans with a recommended 2:1 ice-to-contents ratio
  • The Rotomolded Construction makes the Tundra armored to the core and virtually indestructible so wherever you decide to take it, this portable cooler’s sturdy construction will stand up to the rigors of the journey
8 RTIC Soft Cooler
Our Score:
8.9
RTIC
  • LIGHTWEIGHT AND DURABLE – The soft cooler is lightweight yet tough to take on any terrain with its heavy-duty nylon shell. The portable cooler measures 12 x 8 x 12 inches.
  • MULTIPLE USES – It’s the perfect ice cooler, drink cooler, travel cooler, beer cooler, lunch cooler, camping cooler, beach cooler. Features ​​2 inches of closed-cell foam.
  • IT’S A FLOATING COOLER – Not to mention it’s a floating cooler, it floats, so your drinks and snacks can go wherever you go. Ideal for a day at the pool or lake, no matter where the adventure takes.
  • UP TO 24 HOURS OF COOLING – The RTIC soft insulated cooler is the perfect insulated cooler bag to keep your food and drinks cool wherever needed for up to 24 hours.
  • LEAK-PROOF WITH ZIPPER – This outdoor cooler is a 100% leak-proof cooler thanks to a durable zipper that prevents spills and leaks. Comes in a 12 can cooler bag, 20 can cooler, 30 can cooler, and 40 can cooler size.
  • The small Plano Frost 21-Quart Cooler provides plenty of space without the bulk and keeps ice frozen for up to 5 days with 1" commercial grade insulation and a continuous airtight Dri-Loc seal
  • Backed by nearly 70 years of experience and ruthless testing, Frost coolers deliver results in a way only Plano can : Industrial strength construction, shock-resistant protection and dual-stage molded latches for an airtight seal
  • Plano Storage : Protecting your passion since 1952
  • Because the little things matter – we even added a stainless-steel bottle opener in the lid : Perfect companion for everything from tailgates to camping : Includes: removable dry basket
  • Shock and drop resistant for worry free transit : Heavy-duty ergonomic handle for easy and comfortable handle with integrated tie-down slots in handle : Exterior Dimensions: 19.5” x 14.5” x 13.0” Interior Dimensions: 12.9” x 10.14” x 9.8”
  • Easy access hatch: Quick-access hatch provides access to cooler without opening entire lid
  • PLASTIC BUMPER & ANTI-SKID FEET ON BASE: keeps cooler from sliding and moving in truck or on the boat. Robust swing-up side handles provide easy, stable transport and fold flat for space-efficient storage
  • INSULATED COOLER: Coho Cooler hold ice for days on end with up to 3” inches of commercial grade insulation, and ColdSeal Latches. Keep your beverages, meal, catch or ice packs cold for days.
  • HIGH CAPACITY: Holds Up to 90 CANS (2:1 ratio ice to cans), it will be big engouh for you to have a pinic, road trip, camping, fishing, etc.
  • 2 IN 1 DRAIN: use the oversize portion for fast drain of ice and water, use the threaded hole portion for more controlled drain or attach the garden hose for longer drain

What to Look For in a most popular coolers?

A valuable product is determined by many factors (included below). The process of researching the most popular coolers is pretty significant because of these features related to the products. However, rest assured that we are here to support your challenges.

Having a closer look at the following factors would benefit you a lot. These are the most important things among various ones you need to consider:

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.

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 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.

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.

FAQs

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

As a normal, we keep researching and updating new information when possible to most popular coolers. So, you should verify our website more regularly or subscribe to our newsletter to catch up with the updates and modifications. 

Besides the list of most popular coolers of 2024, we can also assist you out. Whenever you require solving product-related issues, contact us!


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About Katie Finn

Katie Finn

Katie Finn is a freelance writer who loves to explore the world and go camping. She's also an editor for CampfireHQ, where she enjoys writing about wildlife and camping tips. She also has a passion for reading and learning new things, which she often incorporates into her writing.

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