Top 16 Best Camping Coolers Reviews 2021

You will need the best camping coolers to keep your food and drink chilly and fresh during the camping trips. I have tested the top items and here are the winners. Check it out!

If you are a camping enthusiast or someone who likes to go hiking and live off for days in some of the remote areas yourself, you will need to consider bringing a fair amount of food and drink to your camping site along with you. And maybe some of that will need to be kept cold to keep its freshness and quality, or you want it to be so. It means you will need to have the best camping coolers to maintain the cool temperature and perform other related functions. 

The best camping coolers will help you store as many items as possible yet light and easy to transport. But in reality, designing a reliable cooler that offers a practical and useful performance is quite hard. Don’t worry because I have finished the hard work for you. I have researched and sorted out the 16 best camping coolers list to help you have a memorable camping trip on your holiday. Please take a look at it and decide which ones suit your preferences most!

Read our latest guide about best camping fan.

What are The Best Camping Coolers?

Choosing the best camping coolers requires considering factors related to the number of campers involved and cold items needed to bring. If it’s camping situations with 2 to 3 people, the Coleman Steel-Belted Cooler may be the best overall model. It has over 50-quart capacity and can keep ice for four days even under a high-temperature environment, yet it is very convenient and easy to carry, lift and transport.

The Igloo Lockable Ice Chest Cooler will be the perfect choice if you want more storage spaces for food and drinks for long-day trips. Its material and design are also extremely safe and durable with Ultratherm insulation. And of course, there are many other product models with specific features waiting for you to explore. Check out the short introduction of the best camping coolers below!

Best Overall: Coleman Steel-Belted Cooler

“Heavy-duty cooler, 54-qt capacity, old school retro style, impressive ice retention, stainless steel hardware, easy to carry and lift.”

Best for Small: Igloo BMX Family 25 Quart Cooler

“Heavy-duty blow-molded built, UV protection, advanced Cool Riser technology, enhanced cooling performance, tie-down loops.”

Best for Large: Igloo 120 Quart Polar Portable Cooler

“Oversize 120-qt capacity ice chest, ultratherm insulated construction, 5-day ice retention, swing-up handles and double latches.”

Best for the Money: Coleman 40 Quart Wheeled Cooler

“Great coolers for outdoor gathering, perfect size, large side handles & wheels for reliable transport, molded cup holders, allow water draining.”

Best for Battery Powered: Coleman PowerChill Portable Cooler

“Versatile hot/cold thermoelectric, 40 quart capacity, convertible door open from the left or right, 12V plug & power cord included.”

Best for 12V: Igloo 28 Quart Iceless Portable Cooler

“Sturdy material, ergonomic design, swing-up and side handles for flexible carrying, cool without ice, power cord fit in 12V outlet for portable use.”

Best for Rechargeable: Coleman 40 Quart Portable Electric Cooler

“Mini-fridge-like design, lightweight and convenient for travel, including 8-foot power cord, perfect for road trips and hotel room use.”

Best for Ice Packs: Dbest Products Ultra Compact Cart Cooler

“Soft-sided portable cooler, compact and foldable, smooth rolling wheels for maneuverability, large front & side pockets, keep cold well with large ice packs.”

Best for Multi-Day: Coleman Xtreme Heavy-Duty Cooler

“70 liter capacity, keep ice up to 5 days, feature Xtreme technology and extra wall insulation, cup holder included, comfort-grip handles.”

Best for Ice Retention: Coleman Xtreme Rolling Cooler with Wheels

“Great-looking and sturdy, Xtreme technology, extra wall insulation & insulated lids, offer 5-day ice retention, telescoping handles, easy rolling wheels.”

Best for Truck & Car: CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag

“Compact cooler bag for camping and road trips, 50-cans capacity, easy to carry and transport, perfect size for placing in the SUV trunks.”

Best for Soft Sided: Lifewit Collapsible Insulated Cooler Bag

“Durable and waterproof fabric exterior, leak proof liner, hold up to 32 cans, long-time insulated, multiple pocket design, 3 carrying styles.”

Best with Wheels: Coleman Portable Cooler with Wheels

“Feature heavy-duty wheels and telescoping handles for smooth and easy transport, hold 84 cans, 4 molded cup holders, 5-day ice retention.”

Best with Separate Ice Compartment: Columbia PFG Skiff Thermal Cooler Pack

“Offer plenty of room, insulated & leakproof main compartment, fitting front & side pockets, adjustable shoulder strap, keep everything cool all day.”

Best with Shelves: Igloo Marine Ultra Quantum Cooler

“Feature Ultratherm insulation, UV protection, soft-ride wheels, internal condiment shelves, 4 self-draining cup holders.”

Best for Under 100$: Coleman 5-Gallon Beverage Cooler

“Hold up to 5 gallon of cold beverages, quick and easy filling, side handles, easy-to-use faucet.”

Best Camping Coolers – Comparison Chart 

To make it more accessible for customers to choose the best camping coolers that suit their needs and purposes, I put all the items included in this review together in the table below. With all the main features and specifications mentioned, I hope it will help you narrow down the time to determine and pick your items:

Top 16 Best Camping Coolers Reviews 2021

Now we come to the central part of this review article. I will show you detailed information about the best camping coolers. You will know about the specifications, pros, and cons of each product. And at the same time, you can understand how their specific features meet your needs and purposes.

Best Overall: Coleman Steel-Belted Cooler

Key features

• Come with 54-quart/85 can capacity
• Charming retro design, sturdy metal material
• Rust-resistant stainless steel hardware
• 4-day ice retention in high temperature
• Comfort-grip steel handles

Product specs

Dimension	25.25 x 17.13 x 17.25 inches
Weight	20 lbs
Material	Steel
Quart Capacity	54
Brand	Coleman
Color	Matte Black

Coleman is always known for launching the best camping coolers with outstanding performance, value, and asking price. For the money you spend on this cooler, it is a good bargain. Its top-notch quality surely meets your needs for happy weekend trips with your beloved.

Design and Capacity

Coleman Steel-Belted cooler is a tough and heavy-duty design yet easy-to-use and lightweight cooler. It features generous capacity, durable stainless steel hardware, and comfort-grip metal handles. With a 54-quart capacity, this cooler is large and tall enough to hold up 58 cans and 2-liter upright bottles. Besides, there is plenty of space to store snacks, cooking spices, and more. The have-a-seat lid with 250 lbs support gives you a place to rest while enjoying our cold drinks!

Insulation

This best camping cooler’s thick lid and wall are made of premium insulated material that offers outstanding ice retention for up to 4 days. It helps keep the ice and your items chilly even in temperatures up to 90 degrees F. When the ice melts after a few days, the water is still cold for the drinks. It also has a leak-resistant channel drain for the convenient flushing of excess water.

Portability/Transport

The Coleman Steel-Belted cooler is very light and easy to transport. Its size and weight allow a healthy adult to carry it easily, even when it is full of ice and items. The large and sturdy metal handles with rubber comfort grips make it easy on the hands. You will find it straightforward to carry or lift and transport the cooler from place to place.

Ease of Use

This cooler features a simple design with a wide-opening lid and solid lid latch. The latch is a two-part contraption that is secured to the central portion of the cooler. You need to hook the latch and lid mate to secure the lid, while the articulating cam pivots pull the lid and press the gasket tight for an insulated and firmly seal. However, there is a small issue that you have to manage to get the latch secured.

Best for Small: Igloo BMX Family 25 Quart Cooler

Key features

• Heavy-duty blow-molded design
• 25-quart/19-liter capacity
• 4-5 days ice retention at 90 degree F
• Rustproof stainless steel hardware & hinge rods
• Rubber T-grip latches, insulated foam walls & lids
• Cool Riser technology molded base

Product specs

Dimension	19.58 x 15.69 x 13.24 inches
Weight	11.29 lbs
Material	Steel
Quart Capacity	25
Brand	Igloo
Color	7 options

If you need a bit heavy-duty, sportive, and high-end cooler, Igloo’s products are the way to go. This Igloo BMX Family cooler with a 19-liter capacity is small enough to be easily handled by one person. Maybe it’s the best option for your weekend trips and picnics on your own.

Design and Capacity

This rugged cooler comes with lightweight blow-molded construction for strength and durability. It has reinforced 3-point-grab handles, T-grip latches, oversized hinges, and stainless steel hardware. The 25-quart capacity makes it very compact and easy to transport. The protective corners offer excellent sturdiness. Meanwhile, the UV inhibitors prevent the cooler from being damaged by the sun.

Insulation

The Igloo BMX comes with its MaxCool body construction with extra-thick foam internal layers and blow-molded exterior. It can hold bags of ice and keep things cold for up to 4-5 days in high-temperature environments. The Cool Riser technology brings an elevated base design. It helps to prevent contact between the cooler and hot surfaces for enhanced cooling performance. And the UV inhibitors also contribute to the cooler’s efficiency.

Portability/Transport

This ice chest is very lightweight and compact for easy carrying and transport. The four tie-down points and non-slip corners keep it in place while the rubberized T-grip latches keep the lid secured during transport. The 3-point-grab handle design with comfort grips makes it super comfortable and straightforward for one-handed carrying and lifting. It also does not take up too much space when you put it in the car or the trunk of your vehicle.

Ease of Use

The old school design of the Igloo 25-quart BMX cooler makes it relatively straightforward to use. The fish ruler on the lid adds convenience and ease of estimating your catch. Meanwhile, the built-in tie-down loops keep it secured during transport. You can clean it easily by hand. However, it can be a little hassle as it has no drain at the bottom.

Best for Large: Igloo 120 Quart Polar Portable Cooler

Key features

• 150-quart/142-liter capacity
• Ultratherm insulation construction
• Hold ice up to 5 days at 90°F
• Reinforced swing-up handles
• Dual snap-fit latches, quick-access hatch
• UV inhibitors, threaded drain plug

Product specs

Dimension	38.31 x 17.38 x 17.75 inches
Weight	17.5 lbs
Material	Plastic
Quart Capacity	150
Brand	Igloo
Color	4 options

This Igloo Quick and Cool ice chest is a go-to choice for your long-day camping trips or big outdoor gatherings. Its reliable insulation and generous size can keep a large amount of items cold for a long time. But the better thing is that its cost is relatively affordable.

Design and Capacity

The Igloo Quick and Cool cooler’s large size allows it to provide plenty of space for storage. The inside dimension can hold up to 188 cans, which is very convenient for long-day trips and great outdoor parties. The plastic composition construction makes it relatively lightweight and easy to use. This cooler also features UV inhibitors, reinforced handles, stain and odor-resistant liner, and thread drain plug. The quick-access latch allows you to reach the items without opening the entire lid.

Insulation

This cooler can keep things cold for up to 4-5 days. Its tight lid and quick-access latch design contribute to maximizing the ice’s life. The UV inhibitors and Ultratherm insulation construction also help enhance cooling performance and protect the product from being damaged by the sun. But the main factor that helps increase the efficiency is the overall large size of the cooler, which allows it to store a lot more ice.

Portability/Transport

Since the Igloo Quick and Cool is considerably large and doesn’t have wheels, it may not be easy to carry by one person with full items and ice. Hence, you should probably team up with someone if you plan on transporting this cooler. However, its reinforced swing-up handles with tie-down loop design can make it easier and more versatile to carry and load.

Ease of Use

Convenient quick-access hatch design helps you sneak drinks and items out with ease without having to open the whole lid and let the cold escape. It also helps increase the cooling performance to keep the contents cool for a longer time. Besides, the dual snap-fit ​​laches can keep the lid secure during transport and loading. And the thread drain plug allows easy draining and cleaning up.

Best for the Money: Coleman 40 Quart Wheeled Cooler

Key features

• 40-quart capacity/ hold 59 cans
• Keep ice up to 3 days at 90°F
• Heavy-duty wheels for easy transport
• Leak-resistant drain, hinged lid
• Large molded side handles
• Convenient molded cup holders

Product specs

Package dimension	23 x 17 x 14.5 inches
Weight	10.5 lbs
Material	Blend
Quart Capacity	40
Brand	Coleman
Color	2 options

If you are the one who likes to travel around with a grab-and-go lifestyle, the Coleman 40-Quart Wheeled cooler is made for you. With great capacity and all-terrain rolling wheels, this best camping cooler is always ready to accompany you anywhere on your memorable trips and picnics.

Design and Capacity

This camping cooler offers adequate room to store drinks and refreshments for a small group of people on a day trip. The 40-quart capacity of its can accommodate up to 59 cans in total. When you need to move it on rough terrain, the heavy-duty wheels and large tow handle are there to help. Besides, the hinged lid makes it easy for one-handed access. And the molded cup holders offer convenient spaces to put your beverages on it.

Insulation

The cooling time of this cooler didn’t seem to be the best. It is claimed to keep cold for closer to 3 or 4 days. Hence, it seems best suited for short camping trips and fast travel. After 2 to 3 days, you will need to add more ice to increase the cooling. Besides, the low CO2 Thermozone foam insulation ensures good cooling performance even in hot weather.

Portability/Transport

One of the biggest pluses in the Coleman 40-Quart Wheeled cooler’s design is its heavy-duty wheels and telescoping handles. The handles are very durable, and the large wheels work great going through any terrain. It is also relatively easy to pull thanks to its lightweight and large tow handle. Besides, the molded side handles make it straightforward for carrying and lifting.

Ease of Use

This cooler features a leak-resistant drain design, which helps drain the excess water without turning it upside down. Thus it will save lots of your clean-up time for better preparation for the next fun adventure. Plus, the molded cup holders on the top make it convenient for drinks placing.

Best for Battery Powered: Coleman PowerChill Portable Cooler

Key features

• 40-quart capacity/hold up 44 cans
• Keep items to 40°F colder/hotter than surroundings
• 12V plug with a 8-feet power cord
• Door opened from the left or right side
• Storage tray included keep items organized

Product specs

Dimension	24 x 17.25 x 16 inches
Weight	2.2 lbs
Material	Unknown
Quart Capacity	40
Brand	Coleman
Color	Gray

The Coleman PowerChill is an electric compressor cooler. It can keep things cold at an optimal temperature without ice. Instead of preparing the ice, all you need to do is plugging in the 12V car power adapter and add drinks or food. It easily fits into almost any vehicle. Therefore, it will be an excellent choice for your family road trips or small picnics.

Design and Capacity

The Coleman PowerChill has a design like a mini-refrigerator. With a capacity of 40 quarts, it offers plenty of space for refreshments and drinks storage for your whole family. And you can keep all the items organized with the storage tray inside the cooler. It has the perfect dimension to fit into an SUV, car, or truck. You can open the door from the left or right for more placement flexibility.

Insulation

This thermoelectric cooler uses a lightweight and simple low-voltage heat exchange system to keep contents cold. Its cooling capacity relies on the temperature surroundings. It can make items up to 40 °F colder or warmer than the external environments. In other words, the cooler the outside temperature, the colder it will become. Conversely, if the surroundings are hot, the cooling will be less effective.

Portability/Transport

The cooling 12V system featured in this cooler makes it compact and lightweight for easy transport. It has no motors, no compressors, or ice taking up spaces. The perfect size and dimension of the cooler make it fit easily in your car or SUV. You can place this cooler in a vertical or horizontal position, depending on where you place it for the most convenience. Or else, you can stow it in the trunk if necessary.

Ease of Use

Since the Coleman PowerChill helps keep drinks and food cold without the ice, you will have more space for refreshments and item storage. It also features a storage tray inside so you can arrange contents organisationally. All you need to do is plug its power cord in the 12V power adapter or outlet and let it do the job.

Best for 12V: Igloo 28 Quart Iceless Portable Cooler

Key features

• 26-quart/24-liter capacity
• Metallic-fiber material, cool without ice
• Cool down 36°F below surroundings
• 8-ft power cord plugs into any 12V receptacle
• Swing-up bale handles & molded-in side handles

Product specs

Dimension	12.87 x 16.65 x 18.23 inches
Weight	10 lbs
Material	Metallic-Fiber
Quart Capacity	26
Brand	Igloo
Color	Grey

This Igloo Iceless is one of the best camping cooler with a compact and ultralight design for small camping and road trips. As long as you have access to any 12V outlet, like the 12V cigarette lighter in your vehicles, this cooler is fully accessible.

Design and Capacity

The Igloo Iceless is a personal thermoelectric cooler with a compact size and simple design. It has no complicated mechanisms or ice that weigh down the cooler and take up space, so the weight is relatively light. With a 26-quart capacity, this cooler can hold up to 32x12oz cans. You can take full advantage of the internal capacity for your refreshments and items.

Insulation

Like most other thermoelectric coolers, the Igloo Iceless can only cool down your contents to a set number of degrees below the ambient temperature. Specifically, its cooling capacity will take things inside to 36°F cooler than the surrounding air. You only need to plug the power cord into any 12V outlet or cigarette lighter. It will keep stored items cold and nice effectively.

Portability/Transport

This cooler weighs only 9-10 lbs, making it quite simple for one person to carry. Its ergonomic curved construction and swing-up handle with comfortable grip will help you find it easy to carry and lift it with one hand. Besides, the Igloo Iceless size is small enough to be placed between the car front seats, where it gets accessed while you’re on road trips.

Ease of Use

The Igloo Iceless is relatively easy to use because it’s lightweight and portable. Plug it into your vehicle’s cigarette lighter or any 12V DC outlet. However, it would help if you didn’t let this cooler plugged in for over 2 hours as it’ll drain the battery. It’s highly recommended that you let the cooler cool down first, then put your items into it. Or you put foods that already cold into it as the cooler the items are, the colder the cooler will get.

Best for Rechargeable: Coleman 40 Quart Portable Electric Cooler

Key features

• 40-quart capacity, hold up 44 cans
• Keep items 40°F colder than surroundings
• 8-ft power cord, tray self included
• Door can be opened from left or right
• Plug into 12V adapter/cigarette lighter
• Can be used with Coleman 110V Power Supply

Product specs

Dimension	23.5 x 17 x 15.3 inches
Weight	6.88 oz
Material	Plastic
Quart Capacity	40
Brand	Coleman
Color	Silver

Another quality product from Coleman that you can count on, it’s the Coleman 40-Quart Portable Cooler. It is incredibly suitable for a wide range of outdoor activities and traveling. For instance, you can take it for camping, road trips, picnics, BBQs, etc.

Design and Capacity

This best camping cooler is exceptionally light and handy; it weighs less than 7 ounces. What’s more, You can open the door from both sides. Thanks to its versatile design, you can use it as either an upright cooler or a traditional ice chest. Besides, it has a 40-quart capacity, which can hold up to 44 cans. That’s pretty good for your average car trips. And you will find a storage tray inside that helps to keep your items organized and neat.

Insulation

With this thermoelectric cooler, you only need to plug its 8-feet power cord into any 12V outlet. And it will help cool down your items to 40 degrees F lower than ambient temperature without the need for ice. However, it will take 2-3 hours to reach the maximum difference in temperature. So it is better to put the pre-chilled or pre-warmed contents into it for better performance.

Portability/Transport

The Coleman 40-Quart Portable cooler is perfect for long car trips, thanks to its versatile and compact design. It will fit easily into most of your car trunks, cabins, or between the seats of SUVs. And because it is exceptionally lightweight, you can easily carry or load it. In general, the transportation or portability of this cooler should be no problem at all.

Ease of Use

This thermoelectric cooler is quite flexible in use. You can use it as an upright cooler or a traditional ice chest, as it comes with two different orientations. And you can open the door design from the left and right to help you have more placement flexibility, especially in tight spaces. And because it’s thermo-based cooling, you won’t need ice for cooling that takes up internal space.

Best for Ice Packs: Dbest Products Ultra Compact Cart Cooler

Key features

• Soft foldable cooler for compact storage
• Fully insulated leak proof built
• Hold up to 60 lbs/36 cans plus ice
• Extra large side pockets/beverage holders
• Large zipper pocket in the front
• Locking telescoping handles

Product specs

Dimension	13 x 10 x 39 inches
Weight	4.89 lbs
Material	Plastic
Quart Capacity	23
Brand	Dbest
Color	Moroccan Tile

If you don’t like hauling the heavy, bulky cooler every time you travel, how about giving the Dbest Ultra Compact Smart Cart a try? You only need to put all your cold items and belongings in it and immediately pull it along wherever you go. Not to mention it can be folded for compact storage when not in use.

Design and Capacity

This soft-sided cooler features a fully insulated leakproof design to store and cool drinks or foods efficiently. It can fit 45 cans plus ice. You can use ice packs to cool the items inside. It also has a large front zipper pocket and extra-large side mesh pockets to put your belongings and bottles of liquid. When not in use, you can easily fold this cooler and place it in the trunk or cabin for storage.

Insulation

The Dbest Ultra Compact Smart Cart cooler can keep drinks, lunch, or snacks cold all day thanks to its internal insulation. You only need to put your contents together with some good ice packs for a relatively good cooling performance. It would be great to store groceries, foods, or refreshments for picnics, camping, bonfires, and road trips.

Portability/Transport

With this compact soft cooler, you won’t have any trouble transporting it. All you need to do is put in your contents and drag it easily on the way with the comfortable locking telescoping handle. The rolling two-wheel design with excellent maneuverability delivers easy and smooth gliding on the pavement. Besides, it can be folded into a flat shape for compact storage.

Ease of Use

This cooler has excellent capacity, more oversized pockets, and beverage holders. It is extremely suitable for you to store your drinks, foods, and other personal items for your camping trips. It is also easy to wipe and keep clean and can be folded back for convenient storage. In general, this cooler is very handy and easy to use, quite similar to a big backpack that people use to travel.

Best for Multi-Day: Coleman Xtreme Heavy-Duty Cooler

Key features

• 70-quart capacity, hold up 100 cans
• 5-day ice retention at  90°F
• Have-a-seat lid support up to 250 lbs
• No-crush side handles with comfort grip
• Built-in 2-inches deep cup holders
• Leak-resistant channel drain

Product specs

Dimension	28.25 x 15.75 x 18.25 inches
Weight	12.3 lbs
Material	Plastic
Quart Capacity	70
Brand	Coleman
Color	Black/Gray Overmold

Coleman’s Xtreme cooler series converges the best camping coolers in the market. Thanks to its Xtreme technology and top-notch design, this high-end ice chest ensures to keep ice and contents cold for long day trips. If you plan on going camping or picnics for several days, this is your to-go choice.

Design and Capacity

The Coleman Xtreme cooler comes with a thicker insulated wall and lid design. Its high capacity allows it to hold up to 100 cans. You will also find that this cooler has a have-a-seat lid that supports 250 pounds, making it a tremendous makeshift seat or a temporary step tool. Other significant design includes a leak-resistant channel drain to help you remove the excess water quickly. And the built-in cup holders offer extra places to put drinks and prevent spilling.

Insulation

The feature that makes the Coleman Xtreme cooler stand out from other product lines is its Xtreme technology. It comes with thicker insulated walls and an extra-insulated lid, which plays a big part in extending the ice’s life. As a result, the Xtreme cooler can offer ice retention for up to 5 consecutive days, even at temperatures up to 90 degrees weather. It is guaranteed to keep things cold for a long time for multi-day use.

Portability/Transport

This Coleman Xtreme 70-Quart model features no-crush side-mounted comfort grip handles that can virtually rotate 180 degrees. This design offers a great angle to grab and carry the cooler. Also, when it is full, you can find yourself a buddy to help you move it. The cooler’s weight with all the items inside combined was no problem, so only two people could lift it easily.

Ease of Use

With the smooth texture surface, the EZ-Clean lid and cooler’s sides make it easy to wipe down and clean up after use. It saves you plenty of time to prepare for your next camping trip. Not only that, when all the ice melted inside, the leak-resistant drain with a spout in the bottom will help you remove the excess water quickly without having to turn the cooler upside down.

Best for Ice Retention: Coleman Xtreme Rolling Cooler with Wheels

Key features

• 50-quart capacity, hold up 84 cans
• Xtreme technology, insulated walls and lid
• Heavy-duty wheels & telescoping handles
• Have-a-seat lid support to 250 pounds
• Molded cup holders on the top of the lid
• Smooth EZ-Clean lid for easy clean-up 

Product specs

Dimension	23 x 18 x 18 inches
Weight	12.1 lbs
Material	Plastic
Quart Capacity	50
Brand	Coleman
Color	Black

If you want to get the best camping cooler with a large capacity, prolonged ice retention, and easy maneuverability, this Coleman Xtreme 50-Quart is for you. This premium model is well-known for keeping ice and things cold very well for long day trips and weekend travel. Also, it features smooth-rolling wheels for easy maneuverability.

Design and Capacity

This cooler has a relatively large size. It features a 50-quart capacity, which can hold up to 84 cans. The model is designed with heavy-duty wheels and a telescoping handle for easy pulling and transport. You can use the lid as an extra seat as it can support 250 lbs in weight. And the four built-in cup holders offer places for your drinks. When it comes to draining, the drain plug will help remove water easily.

Insulation

This best camping cooler also features Coleman’s advanced Xtreme technology. It is possible to keep ice up to five days at high temperatures thanks to its thick insulated walls and lid design. The lid is also very secure to prolong the ice’s life and make it easier to transport. Besides, it will achieve maximum cooling performance if you pre-cool your contents first.

Portability/Transport

Fortunately, this cooler has a telescoping handle and heavy-duty wheels so you can move it around with ease. So you can straightforwardly pull it when it’s fully loaded. Or you can carry and lift it with the built-in handles on the side. The size of this cooler also makes it suitable for most mid-sized vehicles.

Ease of Use

The standout feature on the Coleman Xtreme 50-Quart includes the wipe-down, easy-clean surfaces that help you clean up the cooler with ease. The drain plug located at the base between two wheels is responsible for the convenient discharge of excess water without titling. The telescoping handle makes it effortless to move it on any terrain and allows compact storage.

Best for Truck & Car: CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag

Key features

• Collapsible design for compact storage
• Large capacity, hold 50 cans plus ice
• Three layers of leak proof insulation
• Top steel wire frame, solid base & lid
• Patented SnapHinges on both sides

Product specs

Dimension	18.25 x 12.25 x 12 inches
Weight	2 lbs
Material	Polyester
Quart Capacity	30
Brand	CleverMade
Color	Heathered Charcoal/Black

This soft-sided collapsible cooler bag of CleverMade is sure to enrich your selections. It can easily be folded neatly for compact storage in the trunks or on your car, truck, or SUVs when traveling. This tote cooler is spacious and capable of holding up to 50 cans in addition to ice.

Design and Capacity

This tote cooler is very versatile. It has the capability of snapping open and hauling up to 50 cans of your beverages plus ice. Its insulated interior is leakproof, while the exterior is very sturdy and tough with rip-stop fabric material. This cooler features a space-saving design, solid base, and patented SnapHinges on the sides for structured support. When collapsed, it is only less than 3-inches tall. You can easily store it in your vehicles or even in your suitcase to travel with it.

Insulation

Thanks to the leakproof insulated interior with waterproof linings, you can stuff all your groceries, food, and drinks with ice into the cooler without worrying about a sign of sweating on it. However, it is only designed to keep ice for around the first 36 hours. Hence it may not be suitable for long camping trips. But if you plan for activities that last for a portion of a day, there will be no better choice than it.

Portability/Transport

This cooler is collapsible to a compact size for easy storage when not in use. It can weigh about 50 pounds but still relatively easy to lift with the side grip and duffle bag handles when it is full. The padded shoulder strap also helps distribute the full cooler’s weight so you can carry it more comfortably.

Ease of USe

This cooler has a flop-free structured design and enough rigidity to prevent contents from spilling inside when you carry this bag. It also snaps open easily and features multi-pockets for added storage for other dry gear and goods. Another unique feature of this cooler is its built-in bottle opener on the strap, which is very handy for you to open your beverage during the trips. Additionally, it is easy to wipe-down for clean-up and folds for compact storage.

Best for Soft-Sided: Lifewit Collapsible Insulated Cooler Bag

Key features

• Large capacity, hold up to 32 cans
• Two separate cooling compartments
• High-density & water-resistant exterior
• Leakproof insulated compartment
• Convenient front, back and side pockets
• Padded handle & detachable shoulder straps 
• Offer 3 effortless carrying style

Product specs

Dimension	14.96 x 8.66 x 11.02 inches
Weight	1.7 lbs
Material	Expanded Polyethylene Foam
Quart Capacity	24
Brand	Lifewit
Color	2 options

The Lifewit collapsible cooler bag is a popular model in the soft-sided cooler lineup. It is top-notch quality, easy to carry, and has a budget-friendly price tag. It’s the to-go choice to take with you to the beach or short camping trips.

Design and Capacity

The Lifewit 32 cans are divided into two insulated sections. The main compartment has a capacity of 16 liters, and the separate top section can hold up to 7 liters, making its total capacity of 23 liters. It also has extra pockets on the front and sides to store different items. The shoulder strap and padded handle make carrying this bag convenient.. Plus, the water-resistant exterior and leakproof linings ensure that ice won’t leak everywhere.

Insulation

This thin-sided soft cooler bag is claimed to keep your drinks and foods cold within 12 hours. It uses high-density insulated material and leak-proof inner linings to ensure a better insulation period. You can pack it with refreshments, lunch, and a few ice packs for road trips or short camping.

Portability/Transport

This cooler bag is compact and collapsible, so it is relatively easy to put it in your SUV’s trunks or pack it in your suitcase to take it along with you on your trips. The padded handle and the removable detachable shoulder strap will make it easier than ever for you when it comes to carrying. Its weight is also relatively light even when it is full. Hence one person can carry it with ease.

Ease of Use

The Lifewit cooler bag provides plenty of storage spaces. It can also hold many dry items that you probably need during your trips with its extra pockets on the front and sides. What makes it stand out is the durable and high-quality material, which is also easy to clean and dustproof. The handle and detachable shoulder strap offer multiple different carrying styles, so you can choose how you carry it.

Best with Wheels: Coleman Portable Cooler with Wheels

Key features

• 50-quart/84-cans capacity
• Insulated lids & walls, 5-day ice retention
• Heavy-duty all-terrain wheels, telescoping handles
• Molded side handles, 4 built-in cup holders
• Xtreme 5 Technology, EZ-Clean top surface
• Have-a-seat lid hold 250 pounds in weight

Product specs

Dimension	22.44 x 17.32 x 17.32 inches
Weight	12.8 lbs
Material	Plastic
Quart Capacity	50
Brand	Coleman
Color	Blue/White

Want a cooler with wheels for easy transport over types of terrain? Let me introduce you to this Portable Xtreme Wheeled Cooler from Coleman.

Design and Capacity

This Coleman Xtreme Wheeled Cooler offers pretty good storage space. It has a 50-quart capacity, which can hold up to 84 cans in total. With this model, the manufacturer has equipped heavy-duty rolling wheels with a telescoping handle to make it easier to transport. The cup holders are molded on the top of the lid for easy access to your beverages. The lid can also be used as an extra seat or table; it can support up to 250 pounds.

Insulation

The cooler is built with an insulated lid and walls for excellent insulation for a long time. It can keep ice and contents cold for about five days at 90 degrees Fahrenheit. It will also always hold the lid tightly to increase this cooler’s insulation. Whereby helping to maintain the cold state of all food and beverages during your camping trips.

Portability/Transport

This ice chest model comes with heavy-duty all-terrain wheels and a telescoping handle for easy maneuverability to make transport easier. You’ll be able to drag it across most terrain surfaces smoothly. Or if you want to carry it, the built-in side handles will provide better-controlled carrying. You will find it easy to lift and transport it every time.

Ease of Use

The lid has a smooth surface with an EZ-Clean texture, which makes clean-up much more manageable. The adjustable telescoping handle lets you pull the cooler smoothly and allow compact storage. Although it is sturdy and convenient, the product has one downside: its lid is quite difficult to open. However, if compared to the overall product, the money is worth it.

Best with Separate Ice Compartment: Columbia PFG Skiff Thermal Cooler Pack

Key features

• Backpack cooler, 22-can capacity
• Patented & easy access zipperless lid
• Slime-Tech maintain a clean exterior
• ThermaCool insulation, Therma-Flect radiant barrier
• Ultra Safe leak proof easy-to-clean inner liners
• Adjustable backsaver shoulder strap with padding
• Front and side pockets for extra storage

Product specs

Dimension	12.25 x 10 x 12.5 inches
Weight	2 lbs
Material	Plastic
Quart Capacity	14
Brand	Columbia
Color	Key West

The Columbia PGF Guide Zipperless cooler pack is designed for people who want a mix of a practical backpack and a portable cooler. Let’s find out about its features and highlights!

Design and Capacity

This soft cooler pack features a hard shell main compartment inside, which measures 10.5 “x 5.5” x 10.5 “, equivalent to holding 22 cans. It has a patented zipperless lid with a velcro closure that allows quick access to contents inside. The exterior has a special Slime-Tech treatment for the added durability and stain-resistance. Besides, there are lots of extra pockets on the outside for carrying utility items.

Insulation

This cooler pack features a proprietary ThermaCool as the primary insulation layer. It also uses a superior Therma-Flect radiant barrier to expand its cooling performance or heat retention. You can put your food or drinks in it with some ice packs. And it will keep them cold for over two days. Besides, the Ultra Safe leakproof liners are easy to clean and have a MicroBan antimicrobial treatment.

Portability/Transport

The weight of this cooler pack when it’s empty is relatively lightweight, about 2 pounds. When it is full of items, it will still be easy to carry. The adjustable shoulder strap with padding and padded breathable back help to enhance the overall comfort. This design makes it easy and handy for solo backpackers or travelers who have a long hike ahead.

Ease of Use

The cooler comes with many convenient features for ease of use while offering plenty of room and extra pockets for storage. The “flip-open” lid with a velcro strap helps you take out refreshments inside easily. And the padded adjustable shoulder strap makes it comfy for users to carry. Not to mention the hard shell is quite durable and easy to clean from inside to outside.

Best with Shelves: Igloo Marine Ultra Quantum Cooler

Key features

• 52-quart capacity, hold 85 cans
• Ultratherm body & lid, keep ice up to 5 days
• Cool Riser technology, ultraviolet inhibitors
• Telescoping handle with gear hangers
• Non-marking soft ride wheels
• Built-in shelf-ledge to set drink down
• 2 drink holders & 2 removable fishing rod holders
• 4 molded self-draining cup holders
• Recessed triple-snap drain plug 

Product specs

Dimension	18.42 x 16.81 x 13.25 inches
Weight	7.1 lbs
Material	Stainless Steel
Quart Capacity	52
Brand	Igloo
Color	White

This 52-Quart Wheeled Cooler from Igloo with non-marking wheels has a full suite of marine-grade features for your very next camping trips or fishing. Keep your snacks and drinks fresh and cold every time you need them with this cooler.

Design and Capacity

This marine cooler features UV protection, insulated body and lid with rustproof stainless steel hardware. Its capacity is 52 quarts, allowing it to hold up to 85 cans. The built-in condiment shelf offers two removable fishing rod holders and two added drink holders. These convenient spots allow you to place your fishing rods or drinks on break. Meanwhile, the lockable lid with tie-down loops brings maximum security.

Insulation

The Ultratherm insulation body and lid of this cooler allows it to keep ice and things cold for up to 5 days. The manufacturer uses Cool Riser technology to design this cooler. They elevate the cooler’s body to keep it from contacting the hot surfaces directly. Thereby improving the cooling performance. Besides, the infrared technology and UV protection also help it keep the cold much better.

Portability/Transport

The Igloo 52-Quart Wheeled Cooler comes with non-marking smooth ride rally wheels and a telescoping handle for easy transport and maneuverability. The handle is equipped with gear hangers for you to secure bags, totes, and more. And the wheels roll pretty smoothly on any surfaces and prevent marks on your boat or ground.

Ease of Use

This cooler provides sufficient storage space for weekend trips, along with its unique marine-grade features. It also has a recessed, triple-snap drain plug to release excess water quickly. And the four self-drain cup holders on the lid give you convenient spots to put your drink and drain the melted ice from your drinks. The only minus point of this cooler is probably that its handle and wheels do not seem super durable.

Best for Under 100$: Coleman 5-Gallon Beverage Cooler

Key features

• Hold up to 5 gallons of water and beverages
• Large, wide top mouth for easy filling
• Screw top lid for staying securely close
• Easy-to-use faucet for convenient dispensing
• Low CO2 insulation, side handles for easy carrying

Product specs

Dimension	14.5 x 18.5 x 13 inches
Weight	6 lbs
Material	Synthetic
Capacity	5 gallons
Brand	Coleman
Color	Blue

The Coleman 5-Gallon Beverage Cooler is perfect for taking beverages for a large crowd of people. It will help keep the ice cold longer and doesn’t leak. It is generally a cooler model suitable for outdoor gatherings with a budget-friendly price tag.

Design and Capacity

This beverage cooler from Coleman can hold a 5 gallon of ice water or other types of beverage. When the water runs out, you can quickly fill it up with the wide top mouth design. Once your group comes to the destination, everyone can grab a quick drink with the easy-to-use built-in spigot and stay fresh for the rest of the day. Plus, the side handles make it easy to lift and transport.

Insulation

Unlike other regular water tanks, this beverage cooler will help keep the ice from melting quickly and maintain the drinking water’s coldness for longer. It is a good option if you want a large pitcher of ice for camping or picnics to keep beverages cold for many days. Besides, it features low CO2 insulation for the reduction of carbon emissions from foam manufacturing.

Portability/Transport

The Coleman Beverage Cooler’s weight is also not too heavy for an adult to have any problems carrying it, even when it’s full. The side handles make it easy and controlling to lift and carry. And the screw-top lid will always stay secure when you transport it or place it on a surface. It also does not take up too much area to place it in your SUVs during the trips.

Ease of Use

The Coleman Beverage cooler works well to keep water cold and ice for a long time. Many customers compliment that it is relatively easy to use. They only need to pull on the spout for the liquid to come out of their cups instead of pushing the little button in like other coolers. The top lid is large and wide, so you can quickly fill up the beverage every time you need it. Besides, it is effortless to clean after the party ends.

Buyer Guide: How to Choose the Best Camping Coolers?

The best camping coolers have to be qualified to make sure your refreshments stay cold well during your trips. When you choose to buy the cooler products, you should take into account the following main factors:

What size of cooler do you need?

The camping cooler’s capacity is usually measured in quart units and comes in size ranging from 16-qt to over 400-qt. Choosing the right size cooler will depend on the trip duration and the number of people in your team. You’ll need a larger cooler for a larger group of people to be able to hold enough food and drinks for everyone. Longer trips don’t give you a chance to restock on ice, so you have to bring a larger cooler than short trips.

For example, a cooler with a capacity of 50-60 quarts would be enough for a group of 2 to 3 people on a weekend camping trip. For day trips, a 40-qt cooler or the smaller one is better. And for extended vacations, consider a larger-capacity cooler, maybe 100+ quart in size. However, it is best to keep the size of the cooler to a minimum for your needs. Too much air inside the cooler will make the temperature rise faster.

Type of Cooler

Camping cooler is often known for three main types: hard-sided coolers, soft-sided coolers, and powered coolers. Each has different advantages and disadvantages, and you will choose the most appropriate one for your purpose. Soft cooler designs are like an insulated backpack. They’re lightweight and highly portable. They are often used for short dap trips because of the small size and low insulating ability.

Meanwhile, hard-sided coolers are the most popular choice. They are much heavier but make up for the excellent ice retention and durability. They come with a huge range of sizes and styles, with wheels or not. 

Last is the powered coolers, which is similar to a portable mini-fridge. They are cooled using electricity from your SUVs’ outlet, portable power station, or other sources. Most of them usually don’t need ice. This cooler is usually more expensive and is suitable to use in vehicles for drivers or road trips.

Insulation Ability

Each type of camping cooler will have a different insulation ability. Some products only keep cold for a day, but some can stay cold for up to a week or more. Usually, soft-sided coolers will keep your contents cool from a few hours to more than a day, and then you will need to add more ice. They will be suitable for activities that take up a portion-time of a day. 

On the other hand, a larger cooler with good insulation and thick wall construction will ensure ice retention for at least 2-3 days. Products that can stay refrigerated longer will be made from more premium materials, feature rotomolded construction, and implement metal hardware. Those that are kept refrigerated for more than six days are usually large. These coolers make up a small portion of the market and are also more expensive.

Frequently Asked Questions

I will add a few typical frequently asked questions about buying the best camping coolers here in the following section. You can refer to this part to have your question answered.

What brand launches the best camping coolers?

Here are the top brands that produce the best camping coolers on the so far market:

• Yeti
• Igloo
• Otterbox
• Coleman
• Stanley
• Dometic
• RTIC
• RovR Rollr
• Orca
• Engel

Do you put ice on top or bottom of the cooler?

It’s best to always remember to put ice on top of foods inside the cooler, as cool air will go from top to bottom; in contrast, warm air will rise. So put drinks and snacks in first, then ice and ice packs.

Can you use a cooler without ice?

Although coolers are often used with ice to keep items cool, you can also use them without ice. Pre-chill your drinks and foods, then put them in the cooler. The insulation will prevent them from warming up quickly. Coolers do not need ice to work. Ice only helps to keep your refreshments cold for longer.

Are hard or soft coolers better?

Hard coolers often have much better ice retention and keep things cold longer. They are also durable and available in larger volumes to take along in longer trips and vacations. In comparison, soft coolers are light, portable, and kept cold for a short time. So they are suitable for shorter activities in a day.

Do white coolers keep ice longer?

Cooler’s color does impact a little to ice retention times, but not significantly. A white cooler will hold ice for half a day longer than a gray or darker compartment in the most extreme cases.

How long can you leave meat in a cooler?

Beef, pork, veal, and lamb, in general, can be kept in a cooler with temperatures maintained below 40ºF (4ºC) for 2-3 days. Meanwhile, You can only store chicken and raw ground meats in the cooler for 1-2 days. If the raw meat starts to freeze, then you can leave it for another 1-2 days in a good cooler.

My Top Picks

I’m happy to share my information and help you find yourself the best camping coolers to accompany you and make your trips memorable. I hope that now you can be confident to choose the right products that suit your needs and requirements.

Of all the items included in my article, my top picks are Coleman Steel-Belted Cooler and Igloo 28 Quart Iceless Portable Cooler. These products are representative of quality from two leading brands Coleman and Igloo. They guarantee essential features, keep your items cold for entire trips so that you can use them whenever you need them.

To sum up, I wish you can decide and find the best camping coolers that you need for your weekend camping trips. If you have anything to ask, leave your comment in the section below. Have a nice day!