

Wheels and an extendable handle can make an icebox easier to move around (the Xspec Roto Molded Wheeled Hard Cooler has both). Large coolers can be nearly 70 pounds when empty, so you can imagine how heavy they are when filled with drinks and ice.

Lastly, you'll want to consider portability. A textile exterior can also hold up better in terms of scratch resistance. Having said that, some soft-sided coolers do just as good a job chilling drinks and preventing ice from melting. This type of icebox is typically made of plastic and often rotomolded for increased durability and better temperature retention. Additionally, extra-large chests need to have hard exteriors in order for two people to carry them (this is true for the YETI Tundra 65). Most coolers are hard-sided, as rigid construction is generally thought to do a better job of keeping things cool. And smaller options are ideal for intimate picnics, boating, hiking, and day trips. Holding 200 or more cans, larger models are great for big gatherings and events - consider the Orca 140-Quart Cooler for this.
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Mid-size coolers measure roughly 25 x 15 x 14 inches on average, with capacities ranging from 30 to 50 liters (which comes out to about 35 to 55 cans, plus ice). One of the most important things to consider when buying a cooler is the size, including the overall dimensions and capacity. Things to Consider When Buying a Cooler Size It would also make a great gift for a recreationist.ĭimensions: 17 x 16 x 10 inches | Capacity: 15 liters | Material: Thermoplastic, polyurethane foam, nylon The Cooler Bag is priced pretty steep for its size, but we think it's a decent value. And the sturdy soft-sided exterior didn't scratch or scuff when we dropped it. There's an exterior pocket, but it's too flat to fit anything more than a paper map - we couldn't even jam a smartphone in.Īfter 24 hours, about two-thirds of the ice had melted, but our cans were still plenty cold. The straps are also comfy and conveniently adjustable. Compact and lightweight yet surprisingly roomy, there's enough space to fit 12 cans, and it's even tall enough for wine bottles. This backpack-style cooler has a retro Boy Scouts appeal, but that's not the only thing our testers liked about it. It's certainly not the most affordable option, but considering the lifetime warranty, we think it might be worth the price.ĭimensions: 19 x 18.5 x 14 inches | Weight: 19.5 pounds | Capacity: 19 liters | Material: Polyurethane, stainless steelįlat exterior pocket is basically uselessįor hikes, intimate picnics, outdoor concerts, and other day trips, we recommend The Get Out Cooler Bag. The Pelican Elite doesn't have a drain plug, but the small size makes emptying and cleaning it a breeze. This durable icebox cooled down within a couple minutes of being filled with ice. There's also a hidden bottle opener and four somewhat shallow can holders on the lid. The latch closes without a fuss, and you can release it one-handed with the press of a button. While it's on the smaller side for a cooler, it can hold 15 cans (enough to get a family through a day in the sun) and is easy for one person to carry. Resembling an oversized, heavy-duty lunchbox, it has a 19-liter capacity. You'll be glad to have the Pelican Elite on hand next time you head to the beach. The price is really steep for a cooler, but it's backed by a five-year warranty and might be worth the investment.ĭimensions: 26 x 14.5 x 14 inches | Weight: 8.2 pounds | Capacity: 45.5 liters | Material: Polyethylene We think this is a great choice for camping, boating trips, or hosting barbecues.

Needless to say, our drinks were still cold. You could even use the large surface as a small table for picnicking or playing cards.Īfter 24 hours, only about half the ice had melted, and the internal temperature increased just 0.2 degrees. Although the lid doesn't have built-in cup holders, this makes it all the more comfortable to sit on. The 65 Tundra closes securely, thanks to the T-shaped latches. The heavy-duty plastic is made using a rotomolding technique to ensure dependable durability while allowing it to be hollow - just like a high-grade whitewater kayak. While it weighs 29 pounds when empty, the rope handles make it easy enough for two people to carry. It can hold up to 39 cans with room to spare for plenty of ice. This spacious cooler has a generous 58-liter capacity. Pricier than others on the list, but we think it's worth the investment if you use it enoughĪfter trying dozens of models, the Yeti 65 Tundra was an all-around favorite. Pretty heavy, weighing 29 pounds when empty
