Top Best Camping Ice Chests: Best Picks 2024

Hailey Abbott By, Hailey Abbott
Updated
Coleman Cooler
Image credit: Amazon.com

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Coleman Cooler

Coleman's Xtreme 5 Day Hard Cooler has lots of features that make it a favorite among campers and tailgaters. For example, it is a durable 70-Quart size, so you can store plenty of food and drinks. The Coleman Xtreme Cooler can keep ice up to five days with the heavy duty ice tray. This cooler features a leakproof liner and carry handles for easy transport. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: Igloo 110 Qt Glide Pro Portable Large Ice Chest

Igloo 110 Qt is your solution to perfect tailgating solution. This large cooler is UV inhibitors and infrared technology that protect it from sun damage, has thick Ultratherm foam in the body and lid for MaxCold performance with a five-day stay, soft-ride wheels for easy transport and smooth ride, cushion grip handle for comfortable towing, virtually indestructible stainless steel hinges. Read Review

3. Best Versatile: Igloo Heavy-Duty 25 Qt BMX Ice Chest Cooler

Igloo's Heavy Duty 25 Qt is a rugged, durable and long-lasting cooler that can hold up to 4 days' worth of ice. The Extra-thick foam walls keep the insulated cool for longer; the blow-molded construction provides superior durability, while the rubberized T-latches secure lid closure and lock in the cold. Cool Riser Technology elevates the design for improved cooling performance. Read Review

4. Best Performance: Coleman Steel-Belted Cooler Keeps Ice

Coleman Cooler is the perfect companion for beach, tailgate or backyard BBQs. The Steel-Belted Cooler features a charming retro design and a large capacity of up to 60 cans. Its rust-resistant stainless steel hardware allows for many years of performance with heavy-duty construction to last long after its first outing. The Coleman Cooler features comfort-grip steel handles allow for easy, controlled lifting and carrying. Read Review

When it’s hot outside, the last thing you want to do is open up your kitchen to cook. Thankfully, there are a lot of cool camping gear out there that can help keep your drinks cold and meats fresh while you’re out in the great outdoors.

These ice chests are perfect for keeping your food and drinks cool on those hot summer days when you don’t want to mess with a traditional cooler or ice box. Whether you’re looking for a small ice chest for storing just enough for one night or an amazing big cooler for storing plenty of beer, these are some of the best camping ice chests available today.

We have chosen many of the good items currently available, including Coleman Cooler - our favorite one. We also provide you with Igloo 110 Qt Glide Pro Portable Large Ice Chest model that you may consider if the top product is not your choice.

You will be surprised at the information we are about to share below! Let's explore the special features of products from famous brands including Coleman, Igloo, Echosmile, Goplus, Dewalt, Xspec right here.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Coleman Cooler
Our Score:
9.7
Coleman
  • COMFORT-GRIP HANDLES: No-crush design with positive stop for pinch-free carrying
  • Cup Holders: Molded Into the Lid to Keep Drinks Close and Prevent Spilling
  • HAVE-A-SEAT LID: Closed lid supports up to 250 lb.
TOP Choice #2 Igloo 110 Qt Glide Pro Portable Large Ice Chest
Our Score:
9.6
Igloo
  • Soft-ride wheels for easy transport & smooth ride.
  • 110 Qt. capacity enough space to hold 168 cans
  • Cushion grip handle for comfortable towing.
TOP Choice #3 Igloo Heavy-Duty 25 Qt BMX Ice Chest Cooler
Our Score:
9.4
Igloo
  • Heavy duty blow-molded construction with reinforced base for increased strength and protection.
  • Rubberized T-grip latches keep lid secure.
  • UV inhibitors protect the cooler against sun damage for extended life.
4 Coleman Steel-Belted Cooler Keeps Ice
Our Score:
9.3
Coleman
  • 54-quart capacity accommodates up to 85 cans. Plastic parts of the cooler include the drain plugs, hinges and handles
  • High-capacity, heavy-duty cooler features a charming retro design
  • Premium insulation offers 4-day ice retention in temperatures as high as 90°F
5 EchoSmile 30 Quart Rotomolded Cooler
Our Score:
9.2
EchoSmile
  • 🍺  【STURDY ROTOMOLDED CONSTRUCTION】Solid rotary mold ice chests and coolers, with classic surface color and natural luster, use LLDPE material, which is safe & environmental-friendly, sturdy & anti-resistant, inside(food grade) and outside(UV resistance).
  • 🍺 【ICE RETENTION】EchoSmile Rotomolded cooler keeps cold up to 5 days with recommended 2:1 ice-to-contents. The intermediate insulation layer is made of polyurethane so as to provide superior insulativity and high strength.The silicone sealing ring seals the whole space to avoid heat convection and prolong the cryopreservation time.
  • 🍺 【SIZE&WEIGHT】30 quart ice cooler can hold up to 36 aluminum cans (12 FL oz). It will be a perfect tool to cool your drinks, such as beer, beverage and juice etc. Weights 15.4lbs. The internal size is 18” x 9” x 10”. The external size is 21” x 12” x 13”. The cooler can withstand more than 310 lbs. You can sit or stand on the lid without worrying that it will be broken.
  • 【Excellent Insulation & Keep Cool】Premium PU insulating materials plus all-in one structure which maximize insulation and keep ice cold for up to four days. More, the sealing design ensures that there is no leakage. Besides, this cooler is dual use, it can not only refrigeration but also keep warm.
  • 【Lightweight and Portable Design】The comfortable padded stainless steel handle allows you to take it hither and thither, which makes instant fresh food can also be come true during your outside activities and lightweight design for easy carrying. Its sturdy construction can also stand up to the rigors of your journey.
  • 【Wide Application of Large Capacity】This cooler features large capacity, which can hold 24 cans(no ice added). A good helper for you when go outside. It can be applied in various situations, such as for a long-distance self-drive travel or you go out for a picnic. There is no doubt it plays an important role in outside activities.
  • Heavy-duty metal handle for easy transporting and easy-open cam latch system provides secure closure
  • T. O. U. G. H. Roto Mold Design stands up to the roughest treatment and ensures temperature optimization under great heat
  • Reinforced insulation provides superior ice retention to keep food and drinks cold for days
8 Goplus Camping Cooler
Our Score:
8.9
Goplus
  • Safe and Durable Material: The cover of this portable fishing cooler is made out of solid food-grade PE materials while the insulation layer of same grade PU ingredients, which is reliable to withstand the rigor of outdoor activities. Also, there are holes ready for you to add extra locks or chains for more security.
  • Easy to Clean and Maintain: Coming with a drainage hole, it is effortless to clear the melting water or whatever inside out of the ice chest. Possessing a smooth surface, you can wipe the cover clean with just a damp cloth.
  • Optimum Performance & Portability: The cooler serves as a step stool, a temporary refrigerator, and a serving table! Side handles make sure convenient transportation, suitable for camping, fishing, BBQs, tailgating, and other outdoor events.
  • FOR THE LONG HAUL: Heavy-duty 6-inch wheels and durable tow & swing-up handles designed for easy transport
  • Have-A-Seat LID: Closed lid supports up to 250 lbs.
  • STAIN-RESISTANT LINER: For easy cleanup; leakproof channel drain plug
  • 45 quart/42.5 liter capacity - can fit up to 40+ cans with no ice added; internal dimensions measure 16"(W) x 11"(L) x 16"(H) inches
  • 20" Strong durable tow handle and 2.5" thick 8" wheels, this towable ice cooler is ideal for camping, recreation, job sites, events, and more.
  • Low profile snap tight latches to keep the cooler closed securely. Non-slip feet, Heavy duty grab handles, snap-tight latches, molded ruler.

What to Look For in a best camping ice chests?

The best camping ice chests is influenced by a multitude of factors, including all those stated below. Depending on the sort of product, the learning process differs. We'll be ready to aid you and propose solutions since we're here to support you.

It's necessary to remember the following ones before selecting best camping ice chests:

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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 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.

FAQs

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.

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.

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 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.

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 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 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.

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.

Overall, we will research and update new info for the list of best camping ice chests regularly. On a frequent basis, please check our websites for the latest changes and updates.

Aside from best camping ice chests, we can bail you up. If you want further support, please do not hesitate to contact us.


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About Hailey Abbott

Hailey Abbott
Hailey Abbott is an outdoor enthusiast and freelance writer for CampfireHQ. She has a passion for hunting and fishing, which she often enjoys with her family and friends. Hailey also enjoys staying active through sports such as golf, basketball, and softball. Hailey has worked as an editor for several years, providing content that is both accurate and engaging. She has also had the opportunity to interview numerous experts in various fields. This wealth of experience gives her a unique perspective when writing about the outdoors and other topics.

Read Hailey's full bio