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We tested 48 modelsonly three made the cut.
Photo:Real Simple
In This Article
Real Simple
The best coolers dont just keep things coldthey make your life easier.
We put 48 models through rigorous testing (including coolers with wheels and budget-friendly picks).
For expert insight on shopping for a cooler, we spoke to Bass Pro Shops and Cabelas merchantJesse Schulte.
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Its long-term durability and ice retention may not be as good as rotomolded coolers.
Given its lightweight, sturdy, and spill-free design, we feel this cooler is a great overall pick.
Dimensions:27 x 17 x 17in.
PHOTO: Amazon
Based on these results, we think that this cooler is best suited for day trips orbackyard gatherings.
We also appreciated the classic side handles and the secure, tight-fitting lid.
According to the manufacturer, this cooler is tall enough to accommodate a two-liter bottle standing upright.
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Compared to many of the coolers on our list, this pick is relatively lightweight and easy to lift.
Dimensions:25 x 14 x 14 in.
Best Portable
XSpec Towable Rotomolded Cooler
Its highly durable and easy to maneuver.
PHOTO: Amazon
It also comes with grab handles if you prefer to use them for carrying this cooler over short distances.
Its also no surprise that this rotomolded cooler is a standout for its durability, too.
Its solid to sit on when shut and only suffered some slight scratching during our drop test.
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At the three-month mark, the cooler’s latches, wheels, and insulation were still in great shape.
We also like that it comes with bottle openers and a drain plug.
Dimensions:22 x 18 x 21 in.
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Whats even more impressive is that it rivals some of the most expensive models on the market.
First, we evaluated the design of each cooler by opening and closing it.
To evaluate the insulation, we opened each cooler after two hours and recorded the interior and surface temperature.
We repeated this process after 24 hours.
We took note of whether it opened, cracked, or sustained any damage upon impact.
It’s best to pack your cooler tightly because too much air allows the temperature to rise more quickly.
Some companies measure the capacity of their cooler by the number of 12-ounce cans it can hold.
you might find larger coolers with wheels for added portability, like ourbest portablepick.
Hard-Sided vs. Soft-Sided
All three of our picks are hard-sided coolers.
Hard-sided coolers have longer ice retention (more on this below) and are more durable.
Ice Retention
This simply refers to how long acooler can keep ice frozen.
Manufacturers make bold claims, from 24 hours to as long as two weeks.
If you need extra-long ice retention for extended use, look for rotomolded coolers.
Made using a specific manufacturing process, these coolers are more durable and keep ice frozen for much longer.
The coolers in our testing range in price from $40 to $230.
Hard-sided, rotomolded coolers tend to come with the highest price tags and the longest ice retention.
They also tend to be more durable and come with longer warranties.
Take Our Word for It
This article was written byJamie Fischer, a writer forReal Simple.
