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If you are going on a short trip, a big camping cooler might be too much. Getting a smaller one can save space in your car. But what you need can be different from someone going to the beach for a day compared to a big weekend camping adventure.
Food is the biggest problem when camping. Refrigerators are not allowed, so you will need to bring non-perishable food. This severely limits your meal and snack options.
That is why you need a cooler box. Get an outdoor cooler and fill it with ice, so you have a place to store your perishables. You can bring in meat, cheese, prepared meals, and even cold beer.
However, there are many coolers on the market. Sorting through all the available options can take hours.
If you have free time, this article will show you what options you can choose, along with reviews of some of the best coolers you can buy with camping money. We will also discuss the criteria to consider when choosing a cooler.
Now let us start. Our top picks coolers for your road trips or camping are:
1. Kula 2.5
We did not expect the best small cooler in this test to be a bucket, but the Kula 2.5 fared better in our ice retention, waterproofing, and ease of use tests than we would have thought otherwise. showed good performance.
In hot and humid conditions (50% average humidity, 70-80 degrees), it took more than 2.5 days for the bags of ice in this cooler to melt.
Other coolers that passed by his third day of ice retention testing began to suffer from difficult-to-use latches, but the Kula's rubber toggle made it easy to move up and down.
It was a little difficult to carry around because it was cylindrical, but it is a great option. So if you plan on hiking long distances before using your cooler, you might be better off choosing the most portable one on this list.
2. RTIC Soft Pack 30
This soft-sided cooler from RTIC ticks all the boxes. Waterproof, it can hold ice for over 36 hours, looks great, and is reasonably priced, less than half the price of other high-end models I've tested. As a bonus, there was also a waterproof pocket on one side for my phone (not much else).
The overall design of this soft cooler is beautiful, but it was a little cumbersome to carry. Because of its boxy shape, it easily hits your thighs even when using the handle or shoulder strap.
Although we praised the waterproofness of the RTIC Soft Pack 30's zipper, it had one of the hardest zippers to open in our tests. However, if you use your soft cooler primarily on a boat or other fixed location and only open it a few times, this is a great value for money.
3. OtterBox Trooper 20
The OtterBox Trooper 20 is a soft-sided cooler that shares some important similarities with the hard-sided coolers I've tested. First of all, the lid is made of sturdy plastic, which gives the overall structure of the cooler more support than other models (but do not be fooled by the soft foam on the top; if you sit in this cooler, it will cause it to collapse).
It also has excellent ice-holding capacity, significantly outperforming other soft-sided coolers we've tested and only a few hours slower than some traditional hard-sided coolers we looked at.
What I did not like about the Trooper 20 was the hard plastic latch. In my testing, it was definitely the most complicated to use, as the latch had a tendency to slide off the hook instead of sliding cleanly over it.
It also makes a very loud squeak, indicating that the plastic is under more tension than it was designed for. Luckily, this was one of the few coolers I looked at that came with a limited warranty in case the latch broke.
Other extra features of the Trooper 20 include a waterproof front pocket large enough to hold several phones, batteries, and a bottle opener. We also liked the balance of this cooler, which is flat on one side and curved on the other, making it less awkward to carry than the classic rectangular design.
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4. Igloo Pursuit 24-Can Backpack
Being one of the best camping coolers, it is also perfect for hiking and other outdoor activities, with the ability to keep your food and drinks cold in an easy-to-carry backpack, the Igloo Pursuit Backpack is just what you need. Backpack coolers are the ideal addition to a cooler world and allow you to enjoy hands-free adventures.
The top dry pocket is perfect for storing utensils and dry snacks, plus the side pockets are perfect for storing bottles. Whether you are hiking, canoeing, or paddleboarding, this small, soft-serve cooler will keep your snacks safe so you can focus on the activity at hand.
In testing, 24 cans and ice fit perfectly into the bag, ensuring you have cold food and drinks throughout the day. This bag has great features like comfortable straps for long-lasting carry, a padded back panel, durable exterior, and a sternum strap for added support. This should be the main reason you should consider is as your choice.
5. Dometic Patrol 20
The Dometic Patrol 20 looks like someone took a regular-sized cooler and shrunk it down to a kid's size. This has some drawbacks. Most notably, they are very bulky even when completely empty, making them heavy and difficult to transport. So it is heavy cooler but perfect cooler for your trip!
However, the positive aspects far outweigh these disadvantages. Not only did the Dometic Patrol 20 have top ice retention in my tests, lasting over 48 hours in the August heat, but it also had some of the easiest-to-use latches in my tests.
If you are looking for something smaller than a traditional cooler to pack fresh food for a long camping weekend, this is a smart choice.
6. Tourit Cooler Backpack 30
Of course, you do not have to spend more than $400 to buy a decent cooler. At less than $30, Tourit's Cooler Backpack 30 is the cheapest on this list, but that does not mean it skimps on unique features. The insulated leak-proof liner keeps food hot or cold for up to 16 hours.
This is enough for a night in backcountry camping. Multiple pockets make it easy to organize cool bottle openers, utensils, and other kitchen essentials. You can take this as your best option.
7. Yeti Tundra 65 Cooler
When it comes to sturdy coolers and versatile cooler, Yeti is a top choice. It can withstand direct sunlight at camp. The special insulation they use is way better than what you would find in cheaper coolers. It is like a super good blanket that keeps things super cold inside.
People love how Yeti coolers are made in one strong piece, so they can last a long time and keep things icy. Some folks even use them as a big fridge when they have a lot of friends over! Yeti coolers are so strong that you can even sit on them like a chair.
They're just the right height for a table too. A smaller Yeti cooler like the Tundra 35 is perfect for one person or a couple. People who own restaurants like Four Horsemen love how their stuff stays cold inside. It is very amazing! Can you make it your excellent choice?
8. BrüTank 55-Quart Rolling Cooler
If you are having lots of parties or big get-togethers, it is a great idea to have a cooler with wheels," says Carla Ruben, who plans amazing parties. She really likes the Brumate cooler because it is big, has different sections for drinks, and stays cold all day.
The best part? It is not as expensive as the Yeti ones. You can put a whole meal for a bunch of people inside it! Carla and her team use it to keep lots of super cold drinks ready. They even use it at their business in Miami, where it is always sunny. The cooler is strong and can handle being taken in trucks a lot.
9. RTIC 52-Quart Hard Cooler
The really good coolers you can buy are already quite heavy, even if there's nothing inside them. When you put in 20 pounds of ice and some 12-packs of drinks, they get even heavier and can be hard to carry.
However, RTIC's 52 Quart Ultralight Cooler is a super cool cooler! It can keep your ice frozen for 10 days, just like the more expensive ones. But what makes it special is that it is made in a way that makes it 30% lighter than the regular heavy coolers. It can hold a lot of stuff, and even when it is empty, it is just a bit over 20 pounds.
10. Hydro Flask 20L Day Escape Cooler
We love the convenience of the Hydro Flask 20L Insulated Tote, which I can easily sling over my shoulder to carry my food and drinks wherever we need them. Whether you need to keep milk or ice cream chilled after a shopping trip or need a snack for your kid's soccer game, Hydro Flask is up to the challenge.
Although not intended for long day trips or camping trips, this soft tote is perfect for an afternoon at the beach, transporting food to a potluck event, or a short drive through the scenic countryside.
Dirt and spills can be easily wiped away with the coated waterproof fabric. The sturdy design prevents leakage, which is a huge benefit for the back seat of your car. The Hydro Flask is also collapsible. Therefore, it can be easily folded and stored when not in use.
Cheap backpack coolers do two things well: (A) melt ice, and (b) leak. Usually done in this order. Hydro Flask's Day Escape Backpack Cooler is the kind of camping cooler we would build ourselves.
Made from ultra-durable TPU-coated nylon, it is 100% waterproof and leak-proof (also includes a waterproof zipper), making it incredibly supportive and portable. Comfortable.
It is highly insulated (keeps ice cold for up to 36 hours) and has a compression molded base so you do not have to worry about it tipping over when you set it down.
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11. IceMule Classic Insulated Backpack Cooler Bag
You can call it Icemule pro. It is another better option for long trips. When you are out having fun in the water, you can bring along the IceMule Classic Collapsible Backpack Cooler to keep your drinks very cold.
This cooler is good for activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, as well as even floating down a river. And guess what? It is waterproof, so it will not get ruined if it goes in the water. It can even float, even when it is full!
The way it is designed helps keep the water out and the ice inside. The IceMule can keep 12 cans cold for a whole day because it has really good insulation. It is even better than most other soft coolers. And when your adventure is over, you can squeeze the air out of it and put it away until your next fun time!
12. Yeti Daytrip Packable Lunch Bag
We've got a new lunch bag, and it is really cool! The Yeti Daytrip Lunch Bag is like a magic bag that keeps your food just the right temperature. It is great for when you are at work, going canoeing, or having a picnic. It has a special magnetic closure that keeps hot food hot and cold food cold.
The lightweight design makes this personal cooler bag easy to carry, and when fully filled, it can be folded into a smaller size for storage. Adjustable grid style allows you to change the bag's internal dimensions by simply switching the hook closure. Choose your personal cooler from a wide selection of fun and bright colors to suit your lunchtime mood.
13. Tourit 30 Cans Cooler Backpack
If you like going on trips with cold drinks and snacks but do not want to carry big heavy coolers, then this cool backpack is just for you! It is made of strong material on the outside that does not let water in and has special foam inside to keep your things cold. This backpack is like having a buddy for your picnics.
Inside, it has a big space where you can put up to 30 cans of drinks. There are also two pockets on the sides for water bottles, a pocket on the top that zips up, and a special pocket inside to keep everything organized and cool.
Plus, there is even a bottle opener attached to one of the straps! It does not have straps around your chest or hips, so if you are going really far, do not pack it too full. But we tried it out, and the straps are comfy and you can change them to fit you just right."
14. Canyon Coolers Outfitter 35 Quart Cooler
Brittany Alexandria Parks, that loves outdoor adventures, got this special box cooler for her car camping trips. It is not like the usual round coolers that are tricky to fit in the trunk. This one is more square and fits better. It is made just for cars and works really well. It comes in a cool color, and it keeps your stuff super cold for a long time.
You can use it for trips that last a few days in places where there are no fridges. The ice inside can stay cold for 2-4 days if you do not leave it out in the hot sun. Parks also liked that it comes with a super good lifetime warranty. She said they will replace it if anything goes wrong, no questions asked. For a cooler that costs a lot of money, that is the kind of warranty you want!
15. Igloo Fanny Pack Cooler
Remember the cool stuff from the '90s? Well, now you can have a very cool belt bag that is also a mini cooler! It is like having a colorful time machine, and it makes your day awesome. You can take it to the beach or the park.
This belt bag has a strap you can adjust to fit you just right, and it can hold up to 3 cans of your favorite drink, so you can easily get a sip whenever you want. It even has a pocket in the front where you can keep your money, keys, and other small stuff. It might not keep things super cold for a really long time, but you can put an extra ice pack or some ice inside to keep your things cool for hours of fun!
16. Dometic CFX3 35 Powered Cooler
On long camping trips, emptying and refilling the cooler every few days can be a major inconvenience. When Chef Ari Slagle and her boyfriend embarked on their vanlife journey, they found this electric cooler to be their biggest blessing and a huge morale booster on the road.
(On a previous trip without a refrigerator, she said, "I ate so many fast foods and snacks that I got really cranky and my body craved green vegetables.") In essence: A much more energy-efficient mini-fridge that allows you to easily control temperature fluctuations.
Through the app, this was more than a worthwhile investment. "I like it because it is compact, doubles as a dining chair, and fits everything I need for 4-5 days: veggies, apples, cheese, jams, nut butters, cooked grains." Meat, olives, seltzer, beer . ” The cooler, which also has a refrigeration function, requires a power source or a powerful portable battery to operate.
17. Coleman 150 Quart Marine Ice Cooler
For serious car camping, you need a serious freezer. Coleman brings you the huge Marine Hard Ice Chest Cooler. The 150 liter capacity is designed for all-day fishing trips, but it works just as well as a cooler for weekend camping.
It can hold 223 cans of beer, soda, Snapple, or whatever else you like. Plus, the robust ThermoZone insulation keeps it ice cold for almost a week.
18. Nixon Wizard Stick Drink Sling
For solo travelers or those who need the ultimate portable cooler, there's the Nixon Wizard Stick. A compact "drink carry bag" that just fits a 6-pack. The unique design allows you to stack the cans so everything stays tightly packed and won't slip around while you are on the go. Ideal for short trips where storage is important.
19. Otterbox Trooper 20 Cooler
For day hikes or quick overnight stays, his Trooper 20 cooler from Otterbox is the ideal solution. The compact design measures approximately 14 x 17 x 10 inches and includes a padded shoulder strap for easy carrying in the backcountry.
High-quality insulation and TPU-coated nylon allow for up to 3 days of ice retention, and a built-in bottle opener lets you brew your favorite beer right after camping.
20. REI Coop Cool Hall 24
You do not need $200 worth of food and alcohol for every weekend camping trip. REI Co-op's Cool Haul 24 is a great soft-sided cooling solution that is perfect for short trips or overnight stays where small amounts of cold food and drinks are sufficient.
The 28 liter capacity is large enough to keep 24 cans and ice chilled below 40 degrees Fahrenheit for almost three full days.
21. Herschel Little America Pro Insulated Backpack Cooler
A cooler does not necessarily have to look like a cooler. Herschel puts a twist on traditional outdoor gear design with the Little America Backpack Pro.
It is called a "picnic in a bag" and has plenty of room for essential food and drinks. When fully packed, it provides space for up to 32 standard cans. I also appreciate the wide selection of modern colors and patterns.
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22. Hydro Flask Insulated Cooler Bag
This special cooler bag is just right for fast trips, like when you go camping at the beach. It can keep your stuff cool and fresh but does not take up too much space. It is big enough to fit what you need.
It ss made really well, so it can keep things cold or warm for about 4 hours. That is plenty of time for a fun adventure!
Things to Consider Before Buying a Small Cooler
1. Purpose
What small cooler is right for you depends largely on what you plan to do with it. Those looking for an easy grab-and-go option to store beverages or the best camping snacks will likely prefer the larger capacity of soft coolers while individuals that need to keep the brats chilled for an overnight camping trip should go with the better ice retention of a hard-sided cooler.
2. Waterproof vs. Water-resistant
One of the biggest differentiators between the soft coolers in my test was their level of waterproofness. The RovR TravelR 30, RTIC Soft Pack 30, and Hydroflask Day Escape were all fully waterproof.
No water escaped from the seams during the ice retention test, and no water leaked out the top or around the zipper when the cooler was flipped around while filled with water.
As long as these three are fully zipped, you won’t need to worry about a cooler full of melted ice water tipping over in the back of your car. Of the hard-sided coolers, only the ORCA 20 Quart was fully waterproof.
3. Latching Mechanism
Latching mechanisms need to thread a fine needle: be sufficiently airtight and watertight to prevent cold air or moisture from escaping out the seams while also being easy enough to use that you can trust friends and family (including children) to actually use it.
A latch that is too difficult to pull or snap shut will inevitably be left open, reducing the overall efficiency of the cooler. In the above table, I’ve rated the functionality of each latching system to help you evaluate which cooler is right for your purposes.
Conclusion
After testing ten products from ten different brands, I determined that the best small cooler for most people is the Kula 2.5 (or Kula 5). Despite its unusual shape, it has excellent ice-retention capabilities and functioned well across a number of other criteria.
If you would prefer a more traditional design, the Dometic Patrol 20 is an excellent hard-sided option, while the RTIC Soft Pack 30 and OtterBox Trooper 20 also won top marks for affordability and versatility respectively.