As summer approaches, many people begin to plan their road trips to enjoy the great outdoors. One essential item that should be on every traveler’s packing list is a reliable cooler. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a week-long excursion, having a good cooler can keep your food and drinks fresh and cold, so you can enjoy them throughout your journey.
But with so many coolers on the market, how do you know which one is the best for your road trip needs? In this article, we’ll explore some of the features you should look for when shopping for a cooler and provide recommendations for the best coolers for road trips.
What to Look for in a Road Trip Cooler
When shopping for a cooler for your road trip, consider the following factors:
1. Size and Capacity
The size of your cooler will depend on how many people you’re traveling with and how long you’ll be on the road. If you’re traveling solo or with a small group for a day trip, a smaller cooler may suffice. However, if you’re planning a multi-day trip with a larger group, a larger cooler may be necessary to store all your food and drinks.
2. Insulation
The level of insulation is critical for keeping your food and drinks cold for an extended period. Look for a cooler with thick walls and a tight seal to prevent air from escaping.
3. Durability
Your cooler will be exposed to rough conditions during your road trip, so you’ll want a sturdy and durable cooler that can withstand the wear and tear. Consider the material used to make the cooler, the quality of the handles, and whether it’s waterproof.
4. Portability
You’ll want a cooler that is easy to carry around, especially if you plan to take it on hikes or to the beach. Look for coolers with comfortable handles or straps and a design that’s easy to maneuver.
5. Additional Features
Some coolers come with extra features, such as built-in bottle openers, cup holders, or storage compartments. Consider what additional features you may need and choose a cooler that meets your needs.
Top Coolers for Road Trips
1. Yeti Tundra 65
The Yeti Tundra 65 is a popular choice for road trippers, and for a good reason. With a capacity of 39 liters, it’s large enough to hold up to 39 cans of soda or beer. The Tundra 65 has two inches of polyurethane insulation in the walls and lid, which keeps ice frozen for up to ten days. It’s also incredibly durable, made from rotomolded plastic and designed to withstand harsh conditions.
2. Coleman Steel Belted Cooler
The Coleman Steel Belted Cooler is a classic option that has been around for decades. It has a 54-quart capacity and can hold up to 85 cans of soda or beer. The cooler has a steel exterior and interior, which makes it incredibly durable and able to withstand rough conditions. The Coleman Steel Belted Cooler also has thick insulation to keep your food and drinks cold.
3. Igloo MaxCold Cooler
The Igloo MaxCold Cooler is a budget-friendly option that still offers excellent insulation and durability. The cooler has a capacity of 100 quarts and can hold up to 145 cans of soda or beer. The MaxCold Cooler has Ultratherm insulation in the body and lid to keep ice frozen for up to seven days. It also has sturdy handles and wheels for easy portability.
4. Engel Deep Blue Cooler
The Engel Deep Blue Cooler is a premium option that offers excellent insulation and durability. It has a 65-quart capacity and can hold up to 100 cans of soda or beer. The Deep Blue Cooler has two inches of insulation in the lid and walls and can keep ice frozen for up to ten days. It also has a seamless rotationally-molded construction that makes it incredibly sturdy and resistant to damage. The cooler comes with marine-grade hardware, including hinges, latches, and screws, that resist corrosion, making it ideal for beach trips and other outdoor adventures.
5. Pelican Elite Cooler
The Pelican Elite Cooler is another premium option that’s built to last. It has a 50-quart capacity and can hold up to 34 cans of soda or beer. The cooler has two inches of polyurethane insulation in the walls and lid and can keep ice frozen for up to ten days. The Pelican Elite Cooler is made from durable materials, including rotomolded plastic, stainless steel hardware, and a built-in bottle opener.
6. Orca Cooler
The Orca Cooler is another high-end option that’s designed for the toughest outdoor adventures. It has a 58-quart capacity and can hold up to 72 cans of soda or beer. The cooler has two inches of insulation in the walls and lid and can keep ice frozen for up to ten days. The Orca Cooler is made from rotomolded plastic and has a comfortable handle and easy-flow drainage spout.
7. Yeti Roadie 24
The Yeti Roadie 24 is a smaller option that’s perfect for solo travelers or small groups. It has a 24-liter capacity and can hold up to 18 cans of soda or beer. The cooler has two inches of insulation in the walls and lid and can keep ice frozen for up to five days. The Yeti Roadie 24 is incredibly durable and made from rotomolded plastic, making it resistant to damage from rough handling.
8. RovR RollR 60
The RovR RollR 60 is a unique cooler that offers excellent portability and convenience. It has a 60-liter capacity and can hold up to 90 cans of soda or beer. The cooler has two inches of insulation in the walls and lid and can keep ice frozen for up to ten days. The RovR RollR 60 has large all-terrain wheels and a comfortable handle for easy maneuverability. It also has a built-in dry bin for storing food and other items that don’t need to be kept cold.
Conclusion
A good cooler is an essential item for any road trip. When shopping for a cooler, consider factors such as size, insulation, durability, portability, and additional features. Some of the best coolers for road trips include the Yeti Tundra 65, Coleman Steel Belted Cooler, Igloo MaxCold Cooler, Engel Deep Blue Cooler, Pelican Elite Cooler, Orca Cooler, Yeti Roadie 24, and RovR RollR 60. No matter which cooler you choose, make sure it meets your needs and can keep your food and drinks fresh and cold throughout your journey.
