Best Extreme Cooler In 2024: Our Top Picks

Scott Nelson By, Scott Nelson
Updated
Best Extreme Cooler
Best Extreme Cooler

Our Top Picks

1. Best Of The Best: Coleman Xtreme Series Wheeled Cooler, 50 Quart

The Coleman Xtreme Series Wheeled Cooler provides hours of fun on the beach, at sporting events, or any other outdoor adventure. Its telescoping handle and heavy-duty wheels make it easy to transport across almost any terrain. The 50-quart capacity holds up to 84 cans with a 5-day ice retention time for hot days. Read Review

2. Runner Up: Igloo BMX 52 Quart Cooler

Never run out of ice with this 2nd generation Igloo BMX Cooler with Cool Riser Technology. This cooler features a rust-resistant, stainless-steel hinge rod and hardware, rubberized T-grip latches, and a non-slip easy-grip stainless steel tethered cap. The MaxCold body is 20% thicker than the original to provide advanced cooling performance and up to 5 day ice retention. Read Review

3. Best Convenient: Coleman Rolling Cooler | 50 Quart Xtreme 5 Day Cooler with Wheels

Coleman Xtreme Roll-Away Cooler is the big brother of your traditional soft-sided cooler. It features high capacity, heavy-duty wheels and an insulated lid for keeping ice up to 5 days in temperatures as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The exterior is made from a durable polyester material that's perfect for outdoor use. The cup holders are molded into the lid to keep drinks close and prevent spilling. Read Review

4. Best Versatile: Maelstrom Collapsible Soft Sided Cooler - 60 Cans Extra Large Lunch Cooler Bag

This Icy Hollow Cooler Bag is an insulated lunch bag that combines the best insulation in the world with a unique design. The Maelstrom Collapsible Soft Sided Cooler Bag is made of rip-stop 600D Oxford materials, plus one layer of waterproof PVC. The interior layers are thicker, reinforced food-grade PEVA materials with seamless ultrasonic welding for 100% leakproof and tear-resistance. Read Review

If you are looking for an ice box that can keep your food items cool for hours then you should check out the best extreme cooler. These coolers come with a compartment that freezes ice. They are highly insulated and have a wide mouth that lets you fill them with your beverages as well.

Moreover, these coolers come in different sizes from small and compact models to large ones that can fit more than just drinks and snacks. These coolers come in different shapes and designs, which means it is going to be hard to find one that matches your taste. In addition, several factors should be considered when buying one of these coolers including specifications, cost, warranty, noise level, storage space, size, construction materials, and additional features such as lockable doors or built-in bottle holders.

However, after investing many hours, we've come up with a name that's worthy of your requirement: Coleman Xtreme Series Wheeled Cooler, 50 Quart. If you desire extra features not included in this model, you might look into another one, Igloo BMX 52 Quart Cooler. It could better suit your needs.

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Coleman Xtreme Series Wheeled Cooler, 50 Quart
Our Score:
9.7
Coleman
  • Cup holders molded into the lid for easy access to beverages
  • 50-quart capacity holds up to 84 cans
  • Insulated lid and walls provide 5 full days of ice retention at temperatures up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit
TOP Choice #2 Igloo BMX 52 Quart Cooler
Our Score:
9.6
Igloo
  • Extremely durable yet lightweight with proven 4-5 day ice retention at 90°F
  • MaxCold body with 20% thicker foam and insulated lid provide advanced cooling performance and up to 5-day ice retention.
  • Built-in tie-down loops for securing cooler during transport.
  • Telescoping handle: For easy pulling and compact storage
  • High capacity: Holds up to 84 cans
  • Have-a-seat lid: Closed lid supports up to 250 pounds
  • STAYS COLD LONGER - Thoughtful 5 layer insulation design. Exterior surfaces are made of rip-stop 600D Oxford materials plus one layer of waterproof PVC. Interior layers are thicker, reinforced food-grade PEVA materials with seamless ultrasonic welding for 100% leakproof and tear-resistance. A built-in EPE foam middle layer and 210D liner add additional insulation, allowing the Maelstrom Icy Hollow Soft Sided Cooler Bag to keep food or drinks cold for up to 12 hours.
  • VERSATILE - Suitable for all outdoor activities as an all-around soft sided cooler for camping or road trips. It’s the perfect size for food delivery services and a great solution to transport groceries from the store or farmer's market to your kitchen at home.
  • DURABLE - Maelstrom Ice Hollow Soft Sided Cooler Bags have double-stitched carry options. All pick-up points, the shoulder straps and carry handles are reinforced. This cooler bag can handle more weight than you’d prefer to carry. Capacity: 15.75*10.24*14.17 inches, 10.5 Gallons of ice and drinks.
  • DOUBLE-DECKER UNIQUE DESIGN - Great design that can be stored easily. Besides the extra large main bag, Maelstrom designed a foil insulated top compartment to store sandwiches, frozen food, fruits, food essentials or utensils. Because of the reinforced layers, this cooler bag can be folded flat and stowed easily in your trunk or under a car seat. Convenient to carry around!
  • EXTRA LARGE CAPACITY - Extra-large size yet weighs only 1.8 lbs. The Maelstrom Icy Hollow Soft sided cooler will hold up to 60 cans of your favorite drinks plus 2-4 ice-packs. Or, with 45 cans you can add 15 lbs. of ice for long lasting coldness. Whether it's camping, hiking, picnicking, or a BBQ party, this cooler bag easily packs a lot of food, fruits, beer, meat, or even seafood together. It’s large enough to carry all.
  • Leak-resistant channel drain lets you remove excess water without tilting cooler
  • Comfort-grip no-crush handles for easy, pinch-free carrying
  • Have-A-Seat lid supports up to 250 pounds so you always have a place to sit and rest
6 Igloo 54 Qt Marine Ultra Cooler , White
Our Score:
8.8
Igloo
  • Rust-resistant stainless steel lid strap and screws are designed to survive harsh marine conditions. Search terms (optional) : Cooler
  • Hybrid” latch is stainless steel where it matters – in the hinge area – while plastic in the snap area for longer life and a secure closure.
  • UV inhibitors protect against sun damage.
  • HAVE-A-SEAT LID: Closed lid supports up to 250 lbs.
  • LEAKPROOF: Channel drain plug
  • EASY TO OPEN: Recessed lip for easier access to contents
  • Seamless, one-piece, roto-molded construction is built to last; Includes anti-skid feet, an oversized drain, and an integrated fish ruler
  • Meets the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee standards for Bear-Resistant containers when used with the appropriate locks (sold separately); Keeps ice up to 4 days
  • Heavy-duty, high performance cooler with built-in Microban product protection that helps prevent the build-up of bacterial odors and stains
  • Features a freezer grade 360 degree rubber gasket and corrosion-resistant T-latches that creates a tight seal to keep the cold inside
  • Constructed with a premium blend of thick polyurethane insulation that maximizes ice retention; Perfect for outdoor adventures and camping
  • 【Thoughtful & Innovative Details】Securing latches, lock slot and seal gasket can prevent water leakage and heat transfer, while enhancing safety. 4 anti-slip foot pads can prevent sudden sliding in a moving truck. The drain plug helps to release water easily. And with 2 bottle holders, you will no longer worry about where to place your drinks.
  • 【Durable Materials & Tough Construction】Made of premium PE and PU insulating materials, this ice cooler can keep everything cold for 3-5 days. Besides, thanks to the environmental-friendly materials, this cooler is non-toxic and odorless. More, the rot molded bear-resistant construction can withstand up to 1102 pounds, making it indestructible.
  • 【Large Capacity & Multiple Function】Our cooler has a 16-quart capacity which can hold 24-can cola without ice. Featuring strong bear resistance, this outside cooler can be a perfect helper for you when you go fishing and camping, or head out for a long-distance self-drive trip, or just use it as a moveable medical cooler box, etc.
  • 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”
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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
  • Plano Storage : Protecting your passion since 1952

What to Look For in a best extreme cooler?

Buyers are frequently hesitant to purchase best extreme cooler. Certain factors should be considered while making a significant purchase. Our understanding and expertise with best extreme cooler will assist you in making the right decisions.

Please take the following points into consideration before selecting best extreme cooler:

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 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 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.

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.

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 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.

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

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

We constantly update the list of best extreme cooler as new data becomes available. For the most up-to-date information, please visit our website regularly.

Please feel free to contact us if you have any queries or concerns with best extreme cooler. If you ask, we'll do our hardest to help you in any way we can!


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About Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson

Scott Nelson is a freelance writer who specializes in camping and wildlife topics for CampFireHQ. He has written for several outdoor magazines and websites, and he enjoys nothing more than spending a weekend in the woods with his family. Scott is an experienced camper and backpacker, and he has also spent considerable time studying the behavior of bears and other large mammals.

Read Scott's full bio