travel ice box for food storage

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The 22 Best Travel Coolers and Ice Packs [Hard and Soft Options]

Amar Hussain

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Keri Stooksbury

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Table of Contents

Why buy a travel cooler, things to consider with travel coolers, soft vs. hard coolers, how to pack your cooler, the 10 best hard travel coolers, the 8 best soft travel coolers, things to consider with cooler ice packs, the 4 best cooler ice packs, final thoughts.

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If you are heading out on a road trip, a travel cooler will keep your food and drinks chilled along the way. Whether you choose a basic model that will keep your lunch cool or a cooler that’s big enough to get the party started, mobile refrigeration is the way forward for great days out and long nights spent under the stars.

Being able to keep your food cold, and therefore safe to eat, on the go is the biggest benefit to buying a travel cooler, but there are other great reasons to consider getting one, too:

• Upgrading from a traditional insulated picnic basket or lunch pack will reduce the risk of you having to deal with messy containers , melted ice packs, and other inconveniences along the way.
• Never buy ice again — simply make your own and take it with you instead. A good quality cooler will help you chill enough drinks and snacks to keep all the family well-fed and refreshed when the temperature rises.
• Save money by stocking up on snacks when you leave home. This also helps with special dietary requirements, calorie counting, or other preferences you may have as you will know exactly what is in your food at all times.
• As an additional bonus, your new travel cooler can also be used to keep medicines cool , meaning that your insulin or other temperature-controlled medication won’t be at risk on the road.

The capacity of a cooler is often measured by the number of drink cans it can hold, as well as the extra ice needed to keep them cool. The internal capacity is, in many ways, much more important than the exterior dimensions, unless you have a very specific space to fill while transporting your cooler.

Smaller personal coolers may only have the capacity to hold between 6 to 8 cans, while huge party coolers can hold 50, 60, or sometimes more, plus ice. Keep in mind that the number of cans they can hold often relates to cans packed tightly together, and if you max out on beverages, you may not have the extra space needed to carry snacks or other essentials.

Hot Tip: Remember that the volume of the storage size can relate to both the insulated and non-insulated areas of the cooler, meaning that 50 quarts of storage may not mean that the entire internal space is available to be used for cooled items.

Depending on your budget and individual requirements, there are different types of insulation that will keep your food and drinks cool on the go. The 2 main types are:

• Polystyrene — The most effective insulation that money can buy, this cheap, plastic lightweight material is very bad at transferring heat, meaning that your gear stays cooler for longer. As a general rule of thumb, the thicker the walls of polystyrene are, the better the insulation will be. This kind of insulation can keep stuff cold for days on end, making high-end hard coolers more suitable for trips away and longer stays.
• Foam — Usually found in soft-sided coolers, a foam lining can work well if you need to chill your items for just a few hours at a time. Perfect for lunch packs and days out, foam is effective for short-term chilling, but not as effective as the far superior polystyrene.

Portability

It goes without saying that hard coolers will be heavier to carry and bulkier to store than their soft-sided counterparts. Many of the larger coolers on the market will come with superstrong handles, often on both sides, making them easier to carry as a team effort.

With smaller coolers and soft-sided models, portability is easier as they come complete with shoulder straps, backpack straps, or grab handles, and their lightweight design means that they can be easily transported, even when full.

Materials and Durability

Rotomolded hard coolers are incredibly sought after by those who like to enjoy a bit of camping, fishing, and other outdoor pursuits. Made to be virtually indestructible, these types of coolers can last for many years and easily cope with the bumps and knocks of constant traveling.

Soft coolers, on the other hand, don’t need to be quite as indestructible, but should still offer tear-proof, waterproof exteriors, as well as washable and leakproof interiors that feature FDA-approved lining material.

Some of the coolers on our list come with delightfully useful additional features that you may never even know you needed. These could include clip-on tables that transform your cooler into an instant bar, handy little cup holders, lids that double up as seating areas, and even fish-measuring rulers for all you anglers out there.

Some of the bigger travel cooler brands offer extended warranties with their coolers. Expensive to buy and often manufactured using the very best materials, it is a safe bet that these types of coolers will last many years if used respectfully. As a rough guide:

• Coleman  — up to 6 years, depending on the exact model purchased
• Igloo — 1- to 5-year warranty, depending on the exact model purchased
• ORCA — 5 years from the date of purchase
• RovR — 1- to 5-year warranty, depending on the model purchased
• YETI — 3- to 5-year warranty, depending on the model purchased

With the soft alternatives, most will offer a warranty of around 12 months only.

Hot Tip: Ensure that your cooler purchase is protected from theft, damage, or accidental loss with coverage provided by the best credit cards for purchase protection . If getting the most out of your warranty is important to you, check out the best credit cards for extended warranty coverage .

Soft Coolers

A soft-sided cooler is perfect for keeping your beverages chilled and will be able to hold enough for all of the family, without weighing you down. Unlike a regular soft-sided lunch bag, many modern-day coolers are “super” coolers with the ability to keep your food and drink much cooler for far longer.

Often insulated using high-density foam, soft-sided coolers are also incredibly portable and can be carried using a shoulder strap or even worn like a backpack. With a fabric or vinyl exterior and a lined interior, they are also easy to wipe clean or wash when needed. More expensive models come with thermally-efficient zippers to keep the cool in.

Although most soft-sided coolers may have a smaller capacity than their hard-sided counterparts, they are lightweight and easy to use daily.

Bottom Line: Soft-sided coolers can collapse down and fold up, making them easy to keep at home or in the car when not in use.

Hard Coolers

By contrast, hard-sided coolers have increased capacity and the ability to keep a wide range of food and drink cool and safely contained on the go. With additional features including freezer-grade lids, easy-to-clean interiors, and drains to quickly empty melted ice, these types of coolers are designed for more hardcore adventures and really thirsty adventurers.

Hard-sided coolers also offer better ice retention and are usually made from hard, rotomolded plastic, making them incredibly resistant to bumps and knocks along the way. While the increased capacity is also useful, the downside to these types of coolers is obviously the weight and restrictions in portability.

Bottom Line: You will need to carry your hard cooler in your car or another vehicle. If you are going all out for a group activity or celebration, you may need 2 people to carry it or even consider one that has its very own wheels.

To make the most of your new cooler, you will need to know how to load it properly. Here are some top tips to maximizing the efficiency of your cooler:

Pre-Cool Your Cooler

It goes without saying that a warm or room temperature cooler will be less efficient than a cold one. If you are using a hard cooler, fill it with ice the night before you plan to pack it.

Pre-Chill Your Contents

It is much more efficient to try and keep cold or frozen contents chilled than it is to cool room temperature ones. With this in mind, refrigerate or freeze your items before you pack them .

Add More Ice

The preferred ice-to-contents ratio is 2:1 , so anticipate that you will need more ice than you originally thought you would. Sprinkling a bit of ice on the top of the cooler will not keep your items cold, so add more.

Also, not all ice is equal. The ice from your refrigerator, for example, is not as cold as ice from a commercial ice maker. Dry ice mixed with regular cubed ice is the very best combination, if you can buy it.

Avoid air gaps by filling your cooler to capacity where possible. If you run out of food and drink items, use more ice instead, or fill the space with towels or paper to prevent the melting process from speeding up.

Whether you opt for a hard party cooler or a single soft lunch pack, there are really effective, affordable, and super “cool” travel coolers out there for you to choose from.

1. Great Storage Space Options and Hardwearing

Arctic zone titan deep freeze zipperless hardbody cooler.

Dimensions: 12.75 x 11 x 16.5 inches

Weight: 3.7 pounds

Large enough to hold 30 cans with ease, this incredibly useful travel cooler also comes in 9-, 16-, and 48-can capacities to suit every situation. Made from Rhino-Tech exterior material that is tough, water- and stain-resistant, and easy to wipe clean, this particular model is also designed to be abrasion- and puncture-resistant to withstand almost any adventure.

The interior will keep your beverages cool with deep-freeze high-performance insulation that features a radiant heat barrier and a removable HardBody liner with SmartShelf. The lining is waterproof and incredibly leakproof, and the patented “flip-open” zipperless lid makes it super easy to access your food and drinks at all times.

For added convenience, this little cooler also has a zippered accessory pocket that works well for keeping your napkins and cutlery or even your cell phone. It also has padded shoulder straps that make it comfy to carry over long distances.

What We Like

• Zipperless lid for quick access

What We Don’t Like

• Gets condensation on the outside

2. Retro-chic and Perfect Cooling, With an 85-can Capacity

Coleman cooler | steel-belted cooler.

Dimensions: 26 x 17 x 17 inches

Weight: 2.25 pounds

A modern take on a classic design, the Coleman 54-Quart Steel-Belted Cooler is as iconic now as when it was first released back in 1954. Offering an incredible 85-can capacity, this supercool cooler is also tall enough to hold a 2-liter bottle upright, making it much more spacious than many of its competitors.

Useful modern-day features include comfort-grip steel handles and a stainless steel latch. It also has a leak-resistant channel drain, which means you don’t have to tilt the cooler to drain excess water.

Offering 4-day ice retention at temperatures up to 90 degrees , as well as low CO₂ insulation for reduced carbon emissions from foam manufacturing, this is an intelligent choice for adventurers who want to keep their beverages cool while remaining eco-friendly.

Finally, the Have-A-Seat lid can hold up to 250 pounds of weight, making this an ideal cooler for campouts, picnics, tailgate parties, and so much more.

• Has a channel drain to easily empty water
• Exterior dents easily

3. Best for “Xtreme” Adventures on Any Terrain

Coleman rolling cooler | 50 quart xtreme 5 day cooler.

Dimensions: 22.6 x 17.6 x 17.7 inches

Weight: 14.15 pounds

This high-capacity cooler can hold up to 84 cans and keep them cool for a really long time. From beaches to ball games and everything in between, the Coleman Rolling Cooler comes complete with heavy-duty wheels that can handle almost any terrain , and the tall telescoping handle makes it easy to pull, even when it is completely full.

With a wipe-clean interior and an EZ-Clean lid, this cooler is incredibly hygienic, and the insulated lid and extra wall insulation can keep ice frozen for up to 5 days in temperatures as high as 90 degrees. For impromptu parties or picnics on the go, the Have-a-Seat Lid can hold up to 250 pounds of weight, and there are even super-useful drink cup holders molded into the lid to prevent them from spilling.

• Can be easily wheeled around
• The telescopic handle could be longer

4. Best for Big Parties or Large Families

Igloo polar cooler.

Dimensions: 38.2 x 17.3 x 17.7 inches

Weight: 19.9 pounds

This monster of a travel cooler is one of the biggest and best on the market, with a whopping 188-can capacity. Perfect for use as an ice chest for parties, family gatherings, and other big occasions, the Igloo brand is known for its superior quality and incredible cooling capabilities.

Made with Ultratherm insulation, this model can keep ice frozen for up to 5 days, and the threaded drain plug enables an easy hose connection for draining. The 2 snap-fit latches keep the cooler box lid completely airtight and secure, and the lid can also be used as a seat.

While this baby is on the heavier side when it comes to carrying, it does have reinforced handles that you and a friend can use to lift, load, and carry.

• Stores a lot and stays cold for days
• Front latches are not that durable

5. Best for Anglers and Outdoor Enthusiasts

Igloo bmx 25 quart cooler with cool riser technology.

Dimensions: 19.6 x 15.7 x 13.2 inches

Weight: 10.34 pounds

If you are looking for a heavy-duty cool box, they don’t come with much heavier duty than this. Offering a whopping 49 liters of cool space, and looking awesome with reinforced blow-molded construction and steel kick plates, this cooler will see you through the toughest of environments.

With extra-thick Ultratherm insulated walls and Igloo CoolRiser technology, this beauty can retain ice for up to 5 days, and the superstrong blow-molded construction makes it a popular choice for outdoor adventurers, especially anglers and fishermen.

With rubber skid pads for extra shock resistance, durable T-latches, steel-enforced swing-up rubber grip handles, and even a fish-measuring ruler molded into the lid, this is a big cooler that is just right for taking with you for a few days away at the lake, by the ocean, or even out on a boat.

• Has tie-down loops to be secured when transporting
• No drainage spout

6. Best for Compact Cooling on the Go

Yeti roadie 24 cooler.

Dimensions: 17.1 x 14.3 x 18 inches

Weight: 12 pounds

The YETI Roadie is a compact but incredibly capable member of the YETI range. It can hold up to 18 cans and keep them ice-cold on the go. With 2 inches of legendary PermaFrost insulation, the ice stays cold, even in the hottest of weather, and the extra-thick FatWall design will protect your snacks and beverages from hungry bears and anything else the outdoors throws at it.

The rotomolded construction gives the cooler its very own suit of armor . The additional features, such as the interlocking hinge system, ensure that this compact cooler is built to last you through many trips, and the quick latches are quick and easy to open, even one-handed. Parties, picnics, campouts, boat trips, hunting, fishing, and a whole lot more will be even better with a YETI.

• Available in a range of colors
• Quite expensive for a cooler

7. A Top Contender by Pelican

Pelican elite 30 quart cooler.

Dimensions: 25.3 x 19 x 18.5 inches

Weight: 21.67 pounds

Offering extreme ice retention, this 30-quart cooler can keep your food and drinks colder for longer. With 2 inches of polyurethane insulation and a 360-degree freezer-grade gasket, this cooler delivers on long journeys and raised temperatures.

With an over-molded carry handle, 3-inch locking latches, reinforced lockable clasp, stainless steel bottle opener, anti-shear hinge system, and molded-in tie-down slots, this cooler offers a lot of features for active adventurers.

The 4 self-draining cup holders keep it easy to clean, and the non-skid rubber feet mean you can take it virtually anywhere. With a 23-can capacity, you and your friends and family can stay hydrated and cool on any trip.

• Sturdy latches for secure closure
• No wheels for easy transportation

8. Best for Family Fun and Flexible Capacity

Orca bw0260orcorca cooler in white.

Dimensions: 24.49 x 19.02 x 15.51 inches

Weight: 25 pounds

This is a great family-size cooler, perfect for road trips, campouts, and all kinds of outdoor adventures. Made from rotomolded materials, it is perfect for keeping your food and drink cold with ice for up to 10 days in a row. 

With integrated insulation and a wipe-clean interior, you can keep this durable ice trunk clean and hygienic on the move. The lid gasket ensures a perfect seal to prevent the chill from sneaking out, and the extendable flex-grip handles make it easy to carry with you to your picnic spot.

There is also a cargo net attachment for added storage and an easy-flow drainage spout to help drain away defrosted ice and water after use. This particular model is also available in 20-, 40-, 58-, 75-, and 140-quart capacity units, so you’re covered for whatever size you need.

• Keeps food and drink cool for up to 10 days
• A bit on the small side

9. Best for Rolling Over Rough Terrain

Rovr wheeled camping rolling cooler.

Dimensions: 24 x 21 x 22 inches

Weight: 44 pounds

This heavy-duty rolling cool box is made from top-quality materials and offers an impressive 7- to 10-day cooling capacity. Designed to travel anywhere with you, you can pull your drinks behind you over almost any terrain on the high-performance, 9-inch, puncture-resistant tires.

The rotomolded, elevated body keeps cool with the help of the airtight gasket and thick foam insulation that comes standard with this model. The removable Deepfreeze dry bin sits at the coolest part of the chest and is perfect for keeping meats, veggies, and large bottles separated and below FDA food-safe temperatures for as many as 10 days.

With more than enough space to hold up to 60 cans and 10 pounds of ice, the impressive cooling capabilities combined with excellent design features make this award-winning cooler one of the best for extreme adventurers a long way from home.

• Puncture-resistant tires for rolling over any terrain
• Prepping board attachment is sold separately

10. So Tough It’s Even Bear-resistant

The yeti tundra 45.

Dimensions: 26 x 15.5 x 16 inches

Weight: 18 pounds

Combining the versatility, durability, and delicious design that YETI is so famous for, the Tundra 45 is a rotomolded cooler that is infused with 2 inches of YETI’s patented PermaFrost Insulation. This means that it will keep all the contents of your cooler ice-cold, even on the hottest of days.

With space for up to 26 cans, this is a manageable size cooler for taking out on the road with you. Marine-grade polyester rope handles with textured grips make it easy to carry, and the T-Rex heavy-duty rubber lid latches will keep your food protected from the elements while out on the road.

For super-exciting adventures, this cooler even has an extra-thick FatWall design that makes it certified bear-resistant ! Offering virtually indestructible cooling, the Tundra range from YETI comes in a variety of other sizes and capacities, too.

• Keeps food cool and safe from animals
• Pretty heavy when empty

1. Best for Carrying Extra Accessories With You

Coleman 16-can soft cooler with removable liner.

Dimensions: 11.8 x 11.8 x 6.7 inches

Weight: 1 pound

Perfect for taking with you to picnics, BBQs, campouts, sporting events, tailgates, and much more, this soft yet durable cooler can hold up to 16 cans for all to share. With extra storage space in the front zippered pocket, the side mesh pockets, and the separate mesh pocket in the lid, you can sneak in extra snacks, cups, and cutlery, too. There are even bungees on the lid for stowing even more extras!

The FDA-approved lining material is safe for food contact. This liner can be removed for easy cleaning between uses and provides antimicrobial protection to resist odors, mold, and mildew. Lightweight and portable, this compact cooler is perfect for a large lunch for 2 or a round of drinks to share with friends.

• Has an easy-to-clean interior lining
• No short handle to grab

2. Great Option for Beach Trips

Clevermade collapsible cooler bag: insulated leakproof 50 can  .

Dimensions: 18.2 x 12.2 x 12 inches

Weight: 2 pounds

Offering better insulation and more snack space than the average lunch pack, this snap basket cooler can hold up to 50 drink cans and ice, too. Perfect for use on the beach, at a picnic, or even on a campout or sporting event, this is a good-sized, incredibly portable soft-sided cooler that is more stylish than the average ice pack.

With a patented snap hinge on both sides of the cooler, you are guaranteed structured support when the tote is open , yet still offered compact storage when you fold it flat.

Versatile and perfect for plenty of uses, including trips to the market to keep your groceries cool on the way home, this is a good-size cooler that won’t eat into your trunk space. It looks stylish and a little bit different from the average cooler.

• Collapsible when not in use
• No shoulder strap for carrying

3. Looks Just Like a Regular Backpack

Coleman c003 soft backpack cooler.

Dimensions: 12.2 x 6.3 x 19.3 inches

Weight: 1.4 pounds

Offering a flexible plastic inner liner that has been treated with antimicrobials to prevent the forming of mold, mildew, and odors, this little backpack cooler will keep your food and drinks cool and hygienic on the go.

Spacious enough to hold up to 28 cans, this backpack has multiple pockets for you to stash your snacks and gear, as well as a bungee cord on the front that provides quick access to other items. In the main compartment, the BPA- and phthalate-free, heat-welded design makes this backpack perfect for use with ice on the go.

Easy to clean between uses, this portable cooler has comfortable padded straps and can be worn just as easily as any other backpack, even when full.

• The inner lining is not that durable
• Backpack straps are too wide for smaller people

4. Best for Commuters and Short Trips for 1

Mojecto large cooler bag.

Dimensions: 9 x 15 x 12 inches

Weight: 2 pounds

Compact, but incredibly useful, this soft-sided cooler is more spacious than a regular lunch box, with the added benefit of offering superior chilling capabilities. Head on out to the beach or join friends for a picnic with enough food and drink. Made from a twisted poly fabric with a PVC-free PEVA liner , this is a great little bag for keeping your snacks and drinks cool.

The multi-compartment design has a removable shoulder strap and a rear pass-thru pocket. There is a dry top compartment that will keep your non-perishable items safe and dry, while the insulated bottom cooler compartment will keep your food and beverages completely cool. There is also an elasticized mesh pocket, 3 front zipper pockets, and drop-bottom water bottle carriers.

• Lots of pockets for small items
• Zippers are a bit fragile

5. Best for Hiking and Backpacking

Tourit cooler 30 can backpack.

Dimensions: 13 x 7.5 x 15.8 inches

Weight: 1.1 pounds

The perfect cooler to take on your next hiking trip, this sleek-looking backpack can keep up to 30 cans cool. Compact and discreet enough to be used as a lunch pack for your daily commute, while also being sizable enough to take on days out with friends and family, this is an affordable and practical alternative to a hard-sided travel cooler.

High-quality thickened PEVA hot-pressed material will keep your snacks and drinks cool for up to 16 hours (with freeze packs), while the inner insulation thickening foam and lining will prevent leaks and spillages.

The backpacks also come with ventilated material on the back to prevent your clothes from getting wet from condensation , and the padded, adjustable straps are comfortable to carry. As well as the good-size main compartment, there are also 2 front zippered pockets, 2 bottle holders, and a mesh pocket on the strap to keep your phone safe.

• Great for picnics with compartments for plates and cutlery
• Can leak if used with ice

6. Best for Every Occasion

Yeti hopper flip portable cooler.

Dimensions: 15.3 x 10.2 x 12.6 inches

Weight: 5.1 pounds

The soft-sided personal cooler is brought to you by the experts at YETI and is built to its usual rigorous standards with the same keen design elements. With YETI’s patented Dryhide Shell, the high-density fabric is waterproof and resistant to mildew, punctures, and UV rays . On the inside, the FDA-approved food-grade material will keep your food hygienic and safe.

The closed-cell rubber foam offers excellent cold-holding capabilities, and the Hydrolok zipper is one of the toughest leakproof cooler zippers in the world.

With a wide-mouth opening for easy loading and access, this compact cooler is far superior to a regular cool bag, and the Hopper is the perfect companion for going off-road, off-grid, and a million other places in between. Lightweight, portable, and with extreme insulation, this is an impressive travel cooler.

• Large lid opening for easy access to items
• The zipper is a little rigid

7. Best for YETI Lovers Who Want to Try a Backpack

Yeti hopper backflip 24 soft-sided backpack cooler.

Dimensions: 13 × 19 × 8.5 inches

Weight: 5.3 pounds

Beautifully designed to function as both a personal cooler and a practical backpack, this cooler combines the very best elements of the very popular Hopper with convenient design traits.

Being taller and slightly wider than the square box version, the BackFlip has been carefully designed to efficiently distribute the weight of your wares on your back . It also comes with a removable chest strap and waist belt for additional comfort and a customized fit.

As with the rest of the Hopper range, this cooler offers superior cold-holding and comes complete with the patented Hydrolok leakproof zipper and the tough DryHide Shell. With more than enough space to fit a full day’s worth of food and drinks for you and your crew, this bag is part cooler, part rucksack, and every bit as awesome as the rest of the YETI Hopper range.

• Waist and chest strap for easy carrying
• Doesn’t stay as cold as other Yeti coolers

8. Best for Parties on the Go

Personal cooler with speakers.

Dimensions: 12.2 x 13.8 x 15 inches

Weight: 1.7 pounds

Combine the very best of both worlds as you enjoy an ice-cold beverage while listening to your favorite tunes, even out on the road. Offering something a little different, this quirky cooler works on all devices, including iPhones, Android phones, iPads, and other tablets, and uses Bluetooth to connect with your media. However, there is an optional 3.5-millimeter jack included, too.

With a rechargeable speaker battery that lasts around 8 hours , you can enjoy cold food and drinks while turning up the tunes to get the party started. You can play music from your own playlist or through any radio station, and the speaker sound quality is pretty darn awesome.

When it comes to cooling, the water-resistant material and top-loading design make this a very practical, portable, and great fun alternative to traditional personal coolers.

• Built-in power bank and speakers
• No grab handle

Ice packs are lightweight, convenient, easy to use, and perfect for keeping your food and snacks cool.

While all ice packs are pretty much designed to do the same thing, there are a few differences in the way in which they keep your food cold.

Water-Based Ice Packs

Some icepacks contain water mixed with propylene glycol, thickening agents, silica gel, and a non-toxic coloring. This heady mix of liquids has been specially blended to allow for faster freezing and slower melting to keep your perishables icy cold for longer.

Gel-Based Ice Packs

Filled with easy-to-freeze gel, these types of cooling packs are covered in heavy-duty, puncture-proof plastic that won’t leak, even in extreme temperatures.

Flexible and easy to mold to the shape of your lunch bag or backpack, these types of ice packs take up very little room in your freezer and can provide many hours of icy-cold freshness for your food and drinks.

The very best ice packs can be used time and time again and can be wiped clean between uses. Both hard, solid ice packs and flexible gel packs can be frozen and refrozen time and time again.

Freeze Time

Most ice packs will need between 2 to 6 hours to become fully frozen . If you pop your ice pack in the freezer overnight, it should be frozen solid for your daytime adventures. While certain types of ice packs may freeze quicker than others, your ice pack will need to be fully frozen to allow for a slower release to keep your perishables cold on the go.

The specially formulated fillings in both gel and water ice packs are both designed to stay colder for longer than regular ice would. Most packs can stay frozen for an impressive 24 to 36 hours in an insulated cooler container and work best when paired with thermally-insulated coolers.

Ice packs used in an environment that aren’t fully sealed and insulated (like a lunch pack, for example) may only stay cold for between 6 to 8 hours, and ice packs left out in the open may only be effective for as little as 3 or 4 hours at a time.

1. Long-lasting Ice Packs for Everyday Use

Cooler shock reusable ice pack.

These brilliant little ice packs can freeze to a super chilly 18 degrees, and they have been designed to keep your drinks and snacks cool for up to 48 hours at a time . Easy to use, you only need to fill the pack with water, shake, and freeze until solid, then pack them in your lunch bag, cooler, or other type of food storage container.

The compact dimensions and slim design offer incredible cooling without the need for bulky ice cubes and messy leaks. The flexible design of these super useful, little ice packs means that they can even be used to help soothe pain from injury.

• Excellent value for money
• They freeze into odd shapes

2. Hardshell Ice Pack for Use With Coolers

Yeti ice refreezable reusable cooler ice pack.

Keep your perishable items cooler for longer with this solid ice pack from the cooling giants at YETI. Made from the same puncture-resistant DryHide fabric as its famous Hopper cooler, this cooling pack is also resistant to breaks and falls along the way.

The custom shape helps to reduce freezing time, and with 1-, 2- and 4-pound sizes available , this excellent range of reusable ice packs can be used in everything from your Hopper Flip 12 to your Tundra 350.

Designed to be frozen at home before you leave, this brilliant solid ice pack has been designed to keep your food and drinks supercool for many hours at a time.

• Stays cold for up to 48 hours
• Bulkier than soft-sided gel packs

3. Slimline Coolers for Everyday Snack Packing

Tourit long lasting ice packs.

Available in a choice of 4-, 8-, or 12-packs in a selection of colors, these supercool, slimline gel packs are designed to keep your cooler bag or backpack icy cold for longer.

The powerful freezing gel has been formulated to stay colder for far longer than regular water can, and once fully frozen, they will stay that way for many hours at a time. The long thin design can be neatly fitted into lunch backs and backpacks , and these supercute ice packs are perfect for use at home, school, in the office, and on days out, too.

• Easy to fit in any type of bag or cooler
• Can be prone to leaks

4. Super-slim Little Ice Packs

Original Cool Packs

This set of 4 slim and reusable hard gel ice packs has been designed to keep your cool bag feeling colder for longer. Perfect for use in lunchboxes, breast milk containers, and regular coolers, these ice packs measure 7 x 4.7 x 0.5 inches, making them compact enough to take anywhere with you.

Despite their super-small dimensions, they are still plenty powerful enough to keep your items cool, and made from 100% non-toxic and BPA-free materials , they are safe to use with your food.

These handy little ice packs are perfect for everyday use at home, at school, on vacation, and anywhere you want to keep your food and drinks cold away from home.

• The compact dimensions
• They don’t stay cold for longer than a couple of hours

Wherever you are headed, and however much food and drinks you need to take with you, there will be a travel cooler to suit. From oversized ice chests that can double up as a portable bar, to soft-sided coolers that will keep your lunch cool during your commute, modern-day coolers offer impressive cooling capabilities across the board.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are hard or soft coolers better.

The decision to buy a hard or soft cooler comes down to budget, use, and capacity. Soft coolers are cheaper and more portable but do not keep contents cool as long as hard coolers. On the other hand, hard coolers are generally more expensive and less mobile but have superior cooling capabilities.

What is the best travel cooler?

The travel cooler market is quite competitive and there are many that may be considered the best travel cooler. Some of the best coolers are made by brands such as Coleman, Igloo, ORCA, RovR, and YETI.

How long does a cooler keep food cold?

How long a cooler keeps food and drinks cold for depends on various factors such as the type of cooler, the insulation used, and how often you open it up. Cheaper, soft coolers may only keep food and drink cool for a few hours, whereas some heavy-duty hard coolers can keep food and drinks cool for 7 days or even longer.

What is the best cooler for the beach?

The CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag: Insulated Leakproof 50 Can is great to use on the beach as it’s a good size and incredibly portable. There are no wheels to contend with, and it has a solid structure that keeps it upright, even on uneven surfaces such as sand.

Which is the best cooler backpack for hiking?

The TOURIT Cooler 30 Can Backpack is an excellent backpack for keeping drinks and snacks cold for up to 16 hours with freeze packs. The bag also comes with ventilated material on the back to prevent your clothes from getting wet from condensation, and the padded, adjustable straps are comfortable to carry. 

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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7 Best Ice Packs For Air Travel in 2023

During air travel, bringing food and other stuff that require cold storage can be troublesome.

Getting the best ice pack for your icebox is often confusing as well as there are so many claiming to be the ‘Best’.

Moreover, ice packs not only serve for storing food but also for relieving pain or injuries (and many more things).

In this article of ours, I will review some of the best ice packs for air travel to help you select. So, let’s begin.

Table of Contents

Why Ice Packs Are Necessary for Air Travel?

For carrying food while traveling by air, ice packs are helpful to a great extent.

If you are someone who likes to have homemade sandwiches or juices while traveling on a plane, ice packs are for you. They are also used for medical purposes as we are aware.

These packs are mostly made of gel so no worrying over moisture after several hours. The gel absorbs any ounce of moisture, keeping both food and lunchbox dry. Ice packs help to maintain the temperature of the food, preventing them from rotting after being in the lunch box or cooler for the entire flight duration.

Also Read- A List Of High-Quality Collapsible Reusable Water Bottles for Travelers.

Top 7 Best Ice Packs for Air Travel

1. live 2day nice packs dry ice pack for shipping frozen food.

Here’s a 10-sheet ice pack bundle from LIVE 2DAY that you can effortlessly customize, fit in cooler, small lunch boxes, or waterproof bags. You can soak the sheets with water and put them inside the freezer the night before you decide to use them.

These ice packs will prevent the ice from melting, keeping the inside of the carrier clean and dry. As they are non-toxic and flexible, you can carry them with you during air travel as well.

Material: Made from non-toxic and environment-friendly materials, you can reuse these ice packs multiple times. The material used to make the packs will absorb and lock the water without any possibility of leakage.

Size and Weight: There are 10 large sheets of ice packs, each sheet consisting of 12 packs. The sheets measure 17×8.5×2 (LxWxH) inches each in size and weigh 0.2lbs. If needed, you can cut the number of ice packs from a sheet and use them accordingly.

Longevity and Durability: The cooling power of the packs remains up to 24-36 hours. The quality material will also prevent any leakage and you can use the sheets more than 2 times.

Why I Love It:

• Air travel friendly
• Customizable and reusable
• Leakage proof
• Long-lasting cooling power
• Not for shipping.

2. Cooler Shock Reusable Long Lasting Ice Pack for Coolers & Lunch Bags

This 4-pack combo of ice packs from Cooler Shock is a time-saver, with long-lasting cooling efficiency. From keeping your food/snacks/drinks cool to soothing your pain, this does the job.

Medium in size, you can place them inside the cooler or lunch box without worrying about the ice melting soon. All you need to do is only fill it once with water and freeze it before every use.

Material: Made from high-quality plastic, this pack is confirmed to resist wear and tear over multiple uses. The nylon reinforced technology makes its use easier and mess-free.

Size and Weight: There are 4 medium-sized ice packs in this combo, each measuring 1x9x10 (HxWxL) inches. Weighing around 12ozs, these packs can hold the ice efficiently without any leaking moisture.

Longevity and Durability: There is no need to look for a new ice pack after every use, as they can be used multiple times after filling it with water once. In terms of holding the coolness, these packs efficiently maintain the temperature at -9˚ for about 48 hours.

• Filling water only once
• Standard size
• For food and medical needs
• 48 hours cooling power
• Takes up space in small coolers.

3. Fit & Fresh Cool Coolers Reusable Ice Packs

If you are on the hunt for slim-shaped coolers that will do their job without occupying your cooler much, this one is for you. These coolers ice packs come in a 4-pack combo and you can reuse them for a long time.

Clear in appearance, these coolers ice packs are designed to give maximum cooling power without being too heavy. Whether it is office lunch or picnic snacks or food for air travel, you can fit them in your tiny cooler and fit all your essentials in as well.

Material: Made from plastic, these packs are non-toxic. Being BPA-free, it will not contaminate your food with any kind of toxicity. Also, the pack’s tight sealing capacity prevents leakage or melting of the ice.

Size and Weight: Each pack measures 5×4.75×0.5 (LxWxH) inches in dimension and remains of the same size after freezing. Around 1lbs weight makes it easy to carry and its slim shape allows it to fit in tiny boxes as well.

Longevity and Durability: With cooling power for up to 24 hours, you can use these packs for air travel, picnic, school, office purpose etc. The hard plastic exterior eliminates the chances of any leakage while giving you the option of reusing it.

• Slim in size
• Lightweight
• Suitable for multiple purposes
• Bit overpriced.

4. TOURIT Ice Packs for Coolers Reusable Long Lasting Freezer Packs

Don’t want the trouble of filling the ice packs with water? Consider these ice packs from TOURIT. These are gel-filled packs that hold the cooling power for longer than your everyday ice cubes or water-filled packs.

These panel-like packs can be set together or individually inside the cooler according to your need. Your task is to only freeze them before putting them inside the cooler.

Material: BPA-free, non-toxic plastic is used to build this product. The gel-filled inside is powerful enough to hold cooling power for hours. Tight cap sealing and quality plastic make it worth the money.

Size and Weight: 1.25×1.5×8.75 (LxWxH) in measurement, you can place these slim ice pack panels below or above your food in the cooler. All the 4-packs combined weight is near 1.5lbs, which is lightweight for carrying along anywhere.

Longevity and Durability: As mentioned earlier, these packs are reusable and do not require opening the tight seal at all for refilling. 8 hours in the freezer and these are good to go inside the cooler while saving extra space.

• Panel like design
• No need to fill water
• BPA free and non-toxic
• 4 in one combo
• Lightweight and slim design
• Irresponsive customer service.

5. Bentgo Ultra Thin Ice Packs for Lunch Boxes & Coolers

From small lunch boxes and bags to big-sized coolers, you can fit these Bentgo ice chillers without hassle. Slim and sleek in design, these chillers fit inside your food carrier without taking up much space.

This chiller is perfect for short flight hauls and trips. Moreover, if you buy these chillers, a percentage of your money will be donated to families and children fighting hunger.

Material: This rectangular-shaped chiller is made with 100% BPA-free and non-toxic plastic. The solution inside the chiller is capable of maintaining the cooling power for more than 4 hours.

Size and Weight: In size, these chillers measure 6.5×4.25×0.3 (LxWxH) each and weigh around 1.5lbs. As they are slim and sleek. you can put them below your food or just slide them at the side of the lunch bag.

Longevity and Durability: The manufacturer provides a 1-year warranty in case of any defect. Its solution is capable of freezing faster and holding the cooling power for a long time. Also, it is a pack of reusable and leakage-proof chillers.

• Slim and sleek design
• 1-year warranty
• Ideal for short journeys
• Fits in any small-sized lunch box
• Worth the money
• Not ideal for long journeys.

6. Healthy Packers Slim Long-Lasting Ice Packs for Lunch Box & Cooler Bag

Here is another pick that will work for maintaining the freshness and taste of your food. Healthy Packers ice packs are ideal for use on long or short journeys.

In any average everyday lunch bag, you can place these ice packs in layers, keeping your food in between. This will help the ice packs to work more efficiently for a longer duration.

Material: Premium quality plastic that brings along no chemical substance or smell, is used to make these ice packs. No need to fill it with water as well, as these come with gel solution. To clean them, just wipe the ice packs with a wet cloth and no stain will be left behind.

Size and Weight: These packs are 7×4.7×0.5 (LxWxH) in size, making them usable for a large range of coolers. Altogether, these 10 ice packs weigh about 4.25lbs. However, you can separate them before placing them in the freezer and your bag later on.

Longevity and Durability: As there are 10 ice packs in this combo, you don’t need to worry about having to buy another set anytime soon. These packs are designed to last longer and provide years of functioning.

• Unique design
• Moisture-proof
• 10 ice packs in one
• Non-toxic and BPA free
• TSA approved

7. TrekProof Lunch Ice Packs Reusable Freezer Cooler Bag

In my search for the best ice packs for travel or air travel, this set of 4 ice packs also meet my researched standard. Available in multiple colors, these traditionally designed packs include engraved snowflake shapes on them for better grip.

To bring your kid’s food with you or simply putting it in his school bag, these packs can fit in any moderate-sized food carrier. Their moisture and leak-proof build will keep the carrier’s interior dry while keeping the food fresh and tasty for hours.

Material: Made especially for kids, these packs are designed and build with 100% non-toxicity and are BPA-free. The solution inside holds the optimum temperature needed to keep any food fresh. Because of its sturdy built, the possibility of the solution slipping or leaking is none.

Size and Weight: These are rectangular-shaped traditional ice packs that measure 4.2×6.3 (WxL) inches and weigh 1.6lbs. altogether. These are lightweight to carry wherever you need and easily cleanable as well.

Longevity and Durability: Although they are made especially for kids, you can carry them with you in airports as well because of their TSA approval. These packs will go a long way in keeping your food healthy and fresh, whenever you need it.

• Designed especially for kids and traveling
• lightweight
• Multicolor packs
• Ideal for short-haul traveling only.

What to Consider Before Buying Ice Pack for Air Travel?

You cannot just buy ice packs. There are certain things and specifications that you need to look for before buying. The things you need to consider are:

Size and Type

There are mainly 2 types of ice packs available. Soft-sided ones or blanket ice pack sheets and hard-sided ones. Soft-sided ice packs are flexible to use while hard-sided ones need to be placed vertically or horizontally inside an icebox.

These ice packs range is from 5″(w)x5″(l) to 11″(w)x14″(l) in measurement. They weigh between 0.5oz to 5lbs. You need to select the one depending on your needs and the size of your lunchbox or cooler.

Durability and Temperature

If you are on the verge of a long journey that will last more than one day, you should opt for the bigger ice packs. They will hold the cold temperature more efficiently than the smaller ones. As they are reusable, select the ice pack which has a quality outer layer or material. This way, you can prevent any leakage from taking place on the ice pack upon several uses.

Read Also: 6 Most Comfortable Sleep Mask for Air Travel.

FAQs about Ice Packs for Flying

Yes. Ice packs are allowed as checked baggage while traveling in an airplane. Although, you can carry them in carry-on bags as well under certain instructions.

Ice packs weighing 5lbs or less are approved by the TSA as checked baggage. For carry-ons, ice packs must weigh 3.4oz or less.

Instant ice packs are allowed as both carry-on and checked baggage on a plane as they are used for medical needs.

Place the ice packs above food inside the cooler. It will help the pack stay frozen for a longer duration.

Inside a cooler, ice packs last for more than 30 hours in general. However, if kept at room temperature, they will remain frozen for 2-6 hours depending on their shell.

Final Words

These were my picks for the best ice packs for flying. I hope you have already got the one you need for your air travel from my top selection list.

You May Also Like:

Most Comfortable Face Mask for Air Travel.

List of My Favorite Comfortable Inflatable Footrest for Airplane.

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6 Best Coolers of 2024

Hard and soft options for camping, entertaining and chilling out.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

The best coolers will keep your food and drinks cold for hours, whether you're entertaining friends in the backyard , spending a day by the water in your beach chair or enjoying the great outdoors with your favorite camping gear in tow.

Some coolers hold ice or ice packs to cool food and beverages down, some provide insulation to help retain the temperature of chilled items — and some do both. They come in an assortment of styles, including hard coolers and soft coolers, with both small and large capacities, and can be narrowed down even further into more specific categories. For example, there are coolers with wheels for transporting lots of snacks and beverages to the beach, backpack-style versions for going on outdoor hikes and small soft versions with a strap attached for day trips in the car.

Our experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances & Innovation Lab have tested more than 85 coolers in the past decade . In our most recent side-by-side cooler test, we assessed the coolers' ice and temperature retention, how well they resisted odors and how easy they were to use and clean . Here's what we found.

Our top picks:

Best Overall Cooler

Igloo ecocool trailmate 70 qt cooler.

Best Value Cooler

Arctic zone titan deep freeze 48-can zipperless hardbody cooler.

Best Small Soft Cooler

Polar bear coolers topper 20.

Best Cooler for Summer Barbecues

Yeti tundra haul.

Best Cooler for Camping

Rtic 65-quart hard cooler.

Best Backpack Cooler

Icemule pro large collapsible backpack cooler.

At the end of this guide, you can read more about how we test and choose the best coolers, plus everything you need to know about when shopping for the perfect cooler for your needs. Looking for more ways to keep your food and beverages insulated? Check out our guides to the best water bottles and the best adult lunch boxes .

The Igloo ECOCOOL Trailmate scored highest overall in our most recent cooler testing. It steadily maintained the temperature of soda cans for 36 hours — and even kept most of the ice intact . It was easy to move around when full and is designed to handle all kinds of terrain with its oversize wheels. It has a sturdy base and remains steady when parked. The company states that the cooler is made with postconsumer recycled materials — specifically, 98% of the lid and body plastic and 48% of the liner — one of the first coolers to use recycled materials.

This hard cooler is packed with useful features, such as a telescoping handle and a removable container for storing dry goods. It also includes a ridged tray — with two built-in drink holders — that stores inside the lid and is designed to be placed directly on top of the cooler's sturdy handle after it's been extended outward. The lid comes equipped with four built-in drink cups, and it even has detachable umbrella holders. In addition to all of these handy features, it opens easily (and to the right, versus up and to the back like most coolers) and seals without any pesky latches. The one downside is the location of the cooler's drain plug, which makes it tricky to empty and clean. Instead of the drain plug being positioned on the very bottom of the cooler, it's located just above it, so fully emptying the cooler was a challenge. It's also a little more expensive than the regular Igloo Trailmate Journey 70-Quart Cooler .

This small soft cooler with a hard interior — yes, you read that right; it's a combo that's lightweight but still holds its shape — had extremely good temperature control. After 36 hours, the soda cans dropped only 6 degrees from when they were first placed inside the cooler. However, 90% of the ice had melted when testing was complete. It can hold up to 48 cans without ice, and it weighs about 44 pounds when fully packed with just cans. The hard liner is removable for easy cleaning.

It has a zipper-free design for easy access and opens and closes with the help of a Velcro-style hook-and-loop connection. It's equipped with a strap, which makes it easier to carry, as well as two handles on either side — helpful if you want two people to carry it when it's full. There's no user manual included, but additional features include a perforated tray that spans the length of the cooler to keep some goods separated, several pockets on the outside and bungees on top to help control loose items like napkins.

Of all the soft coolers we tested, this one, from Polar Bear Coolers, performed the best. It even performed just as well as some of the hard coolers we tested , which typically do better than soft coolers . The soda cans got seven degrees colder over 36 hours and maintained a temperature of 33˚F. It's easy to pack and can fit 30 soda cans without ice. When filled with cans and no ice, its maximum weight is less than 30 pounds. The handle on top (hence the name Topper) makes it relatively easy to carry; plus, it comes with a detachable shoulder strap, though we didn't find it that comfortable.

We appreciate the included instructions that describe how to prep the cooler and subsequently care for it. And the zipper comes with zipper lubricant that you apply to help maintain smooth opening and closing. It's radio frequency–welded (a.k.a. the plastic pieces are essentially melted together to create a better seal), which helps prevent leaks inside and out and it even floats if you need it to. Even though we noticed a slight odor after cleaning, we found the cleanup process to be simple.

The Tundra Haul is YETI's first cooler with wheels, which many will appreciate, since it can exceed 100 pounds when full. You can pack it up to its capacity and still be able to move it around your backyard or your favorite park for a family barbecue.

It boasts 65 quarts and can fit 83 cans without ice . In our tests, it had excellent temperature control and was able to maintain a temperature of 33˚F for 36 hours. (The cans were put in the cooler at a starting temperature of around 40˚F.) That's pretty much perfect for ensuring that your drinks and burger toppings stay cool on a hot summer day.

The Tundra Haul is rotomolded, which means it's made from one piece of material, a design that contributes to high quality and durability. It's easy to open, thanks to its rubber latches, versus traditional plastic ones or buckles. Plus, it has a food crate to help keep the inside organized. The handle is oversize, and it can be operated with one hand or two. When it's not extended and ready for use, it folds flat against the cooler.

The cooler is a breeze to clean, partly because the drain plug is located in between the wheels. Just tip the cooler up and pour out excess liquids. It comes with a user maintenance manual that provides instructions on first use and includes directions for cleaning and care.

This rotomolded cooler (made from one piece of material), is strong and durable. It can hold up to 64 cans with ice and comes with a food bin that latches with rubber hooks , which is key when you're camping and cooking in the wilderness so you can keep your dry goods out of the ice in the bottom of the cooler.

It's thick and durable with large handles for carrying, though we recommend that two people carry it together when moving it on your campsite — or that you opt to leave it in your car, since it doesn't have wheels and can weigh around 110 pounds when filled with the maximum capacity of cans, according to testing.

In our tests, it had great temperature retention, and plenty of ice was left over after 36 hours. Our testers also liked that it has two drains that allow you to release melted ice from either side, depending on how the cooler is sloped and where it's placed.

IceMule's Pro Large Collapsible Backpack Cooler is comfortable to wear and can fit up to 18 cans of soda with ice. This backpack is uniquely designed: There isn't a zipper; you just fold down the opening and use a buckle to keep it fastened. There's also an air valve that you breathe into, which creates extra insulation . In fact, in our Lab tests, the interior temperature went up only 1.98 degrees and stayed under 40˚F during the entire 14-hour testing period.

When you're ready to store this backpack cooler, you simply reverse the bag to empty out the air and fold up the bag. According to the brand, it's 100% waterproof and can even float, but we haven't tested that claim yet. There are also bungee cords on the front to help control loose items, such as a water bottle.

How we test coolers

The Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances & Innovation Lab tests coolers by recording how long each model stays cold in a controlled setting that mimics real-life use:

• In our most recent side-by-side cooler test, we evaluated 22 coolers and Lab-tested 15 of them . For each cooler, we assessed ease of loading and unloading, cleaning and transporting. We also evaluated the helpfulness of the user guide, if one was included.

• To test this batch of 15, we filled each cooler with a comparable ice-to-can ratio of one third cans to two-thirds ice . We then placed a thermocouple (a highly sensitive scientific thermometer) inside one soda can in each cooler and connected the cans to a data logger to record the temperature every 15 minutes over a total of 36 hours .

• From there, we assessed each cooler's ability to maintain temperature at 12 hours and 36 hours. We also used this test to determine how easy the coolers were to pack.
• Once every cooler was completely loaded, we carried the coolers around to see which were the easiest to travel with.

• We also weighed the coolers to determine how heavy they were after being filled up to their capacity with cans and ice.
• After unpacking the coolers and assessing their drain spouts, we tested their cleanability and ability to resist odor by making a mess: W e spilled soda in each cooler, tossed in half an onion and let the mixture sit for a day. Then we washed the coolers with soap and water to see how well they cleaned up and if they still smelled like onion.
• Overall, we collected more than 1,800 data points to determine which coolers would best withstand a typical day of use (and longer).

Which cooler holds ice the longest?

According to our testing, the RTIC 65-Quart Hard Cooler held the largest amount of ice after two days of testing . It had some water, but ice probably could have lasted another day or two with the amount that was left.

However, most of our picks, like the Igloo ECOCOOL Trailmate and the YETI Tundra Haul , retained a good amount of ice. If this is important to you, we recommend purchasing a hard cooler, which retained ice the best in our tests. We did find that the Polar Bear Coolers Topper 20 retained ice better than any other soft cooler we tested.

What to look for when shopping for the best coolers

Keep these pointers in mind as you start to narrow down your search for the best cooler for your needs:

✔️ Style and temperature retention: Take note of the differences between these two options:

• Hard coolers are the better choice for campers, outdoor adventure trips that last more than one day and holding a lot of goods. They're generally made of durable double-walled plastic and/or foam insulation and are designed to keep contents cold for days.
• Soft coolers are great options for picnics, work lunches or day hikes. Most models are made of easy-to-clean shells and lined with insulating nylon for food safety. They're designed to keep food cold for up to one day.

✔️ Capacity: Coolers are available in a range of sizes, from a five-quart cooler to carry your lunch to a 125-quart cooler that's large enough to hold more than 200 cans. Because a large-capacity cooler can get quite heavy, consider buying one on wheels — or even two smaller coolers (one for drinks and one for food) for easier transport.

✔️ Portability: These days, cooler companies are starting to attach wheels to their hard coolers. This allows individuals to take these big, heavy coolers and maneuver and manipulate them easily and safely. Look for soft coolers with padded shoulder straps or backpack-style attachments, both of which can make carrying easier.

✔️ Construction: If you're a more experienced cooler shopper or someone who's really done their homework, you've likely seen the term "rotomolded," which means a hard cooler has been built from one continuous piece of plastic. This type of construction makes it more durable, with fewer places for the cooler to potentially leak over time. When shopping for soft coolers, look for watertight seals around the zippers.

✔️ Accessories: Many large hard coolers come equipped with dry bins for keeping goods dry and away from ice. Other features to look for include dividers that work within the ice to create individual sections, drink holders on the lid, umbrella holders and can openers. For soft coolers, we like to have at least a couple of carrying options: short handles and a long strap, plus pockets.

What type of cooler should I buy?

It depends on which activities you'd like to use your cooler for . Here's a quick guide:

• Soft cooler: These are ideal for day trips, like having a small, leisurely picnic in a beautiful locale or spending a sunny day at the beach. Soft coolers are good to have on long drives as well. Most come with handles for easy carrying. In general, though, soft coolers don't hold ice as well as hard coolers.
• Backpack cooler: If you're going on a long hike or kayak ride, backpack coolers are handy. They help ensure that your hands are free to hold a walking stick or paddle, and they can usually hold other equipment as needed, such as water bottles or sunscreen. These coolers aren't intended to hold a large number of items, but they're great for keeping your drinks and a sandwich or two cold.
• Hard cooler: Ideal for storing in your car or trailer while camping or setting out on your deck for easy access while you barbecue, hard coolers have good ice retention capabilities and varying capacities. Keep in mind that a large model will be very heavy once filled and will need to stay in place or be moved by two people.
• Hard cooler with wheels: A cooler with wheels makes transportation easy. Whether you're walking down to the beach or going on a camping trip, you don't have to worry about hurting your back or finding a friend to help you carry it. Since coolers with wheels are often made out of a hard material, they retain ice and temperature well. One downside is that some designs can take up storage room inside the cooler and make them a little harder to pack.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Alec Scherma is the test engineer at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where he tests products across categories, including home and tech. He has conducted evaluation and testing for more than 35 coolers, buying and packing hundreds of cans of soda and weighing and carrying each cooler.

Nicole Papantoniou runs the Good Housekeeping Institute's Kitchen Appliances & Innovation Lab, where she oversees all content and testing related to kitchen and cooking appliances, tools and gear, including this cooler test. Nicole is constantly testing new coolers in real-life situations, whether she's at the beach or in her backyard (and also probably testing grills at the same time).

Alec Scherma (he/him) is the Good Housekeeping Institute ’s test engineer, where he helps to create and implement new product testing methodology across home, cooking and cleaning appliances, wellness, tech products and more. He graduated from Drexel University’s College of Engineering with a B.A. in mechanical engineering.

Nicole (she/her) is the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab, where she has overseen content and testing related to kitchen and cooking appliances, tools and gear since 2019. She’s an experienced product tester and recipe creator, trained in classic culinary arts and culinary nutrition. She has worked in test kitchens for small kitchen appliance brands and national magazines, including Family Circle and Ladies’ Home Journal .

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Best Coolers of 2024

From premium rotomolded models with excellent ice retention to wheeled designs for easy transport, below are the year’s best hard-sided coolers.

Switchback Travel ( Jason Hummel )

We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases. Read more about us . 

Whether you’re headed to the beach, tailgating before your favorite sporting event, or camping in the wild, there's a good chance you'll want to keep your food and drinks cold. Thankfully, the market is packed with high-quality coolers that excel at everything from short day trips to week-long adventures. Below we break down our favorite hard-sided designs of 2024, including budget-friendly Coleman models, ultra-premium Yetis, and popular offerings from brands like RTIC, Orca, Pelican, and more. For those concerned about weight and portability, we also included one soft-sided option. For more background information, see our cooler comparison table and buying advice below the picks. Depending on your needs and intended use(s), we’ve also compiled lists of the best soft coolers ,  best backpack coolers , and best wheeled coolers .

Editor’s note: We updated our coolers guide on April 29, 2024 to add the RTIC Soft Pack Cooler 30 Can as our top soft-sided pick. We also included information about our testing practices, expanded our section on hard-sided versus soft-sided coolers in the buying advice, and swept the guide to ensure all prices, designs, and write-ups are up-to-date.  

Our Team's Cooler Picks

• Best Overall Hard-Sided Cooler: RTIC 52 QT Ultra-Light
• Best Premium Cooler with Excellent Ice Retention: Yeti Tundra 65
• Best Budget Cooler: Coleman 316 Series 70-Quart
• Best Small Cooler for Day Trips: Yeti Roadie 24
• Best Cooler with Wheels: RovR Products RollR 60
• Best Soft-Sided Cooler: RTIC Soft Pack Cooler 30 Can

Best Overall Hard-Sided Cooler

1. rtic 52 qt ultra-light ($199).

The best hard-sided coolers nicely balance capacity, ice retention, portability, and price, and RTIC’s 52 QT Ultra-Light checks all those boxes emphatically. Starting with capacity, you get a versatile 52 quarts of storage, which easily squeezes into a trunk but still offers sufficient space for two campers headed out on a long weekend (for reference, most alternatives are either 45 or 65 qts.). As the name suggests, the 21-pound RTIC is well made yet notably lightweight, making it easier to carry than most similarly sized options, including Yeti's smaller Tundra 45 (24 lb. 9.6 oz.). Last but not least is cost: By selling direct to consumer (and consistently discounting their coolers on their own site), RTIC’s prices are significantly lower than much of the competition, with the 52 QT Ultra-Light checking in a considerable $100 less than the aforementioned Tundra 45.

What are the downsides of buying an RTIC cooler? First is the lack of convenience: While you can see and pick up a Yeti and many other brands at your local outdoor shop, you don’t get the same luxury with online-only RTIC. Additionally, the Ultra-Light’s injection-molded construction means it comes up a bit short in terms of all-out durability compared to the Tundra and other premium rotomolded options—including RTIC’s own 45 QT Ultra-Tough Cooler below—although the trade-offs are a more manageable weight and reduced cost (for more on this, see our buying advice below). The RTIC also falls a little behind in ice retention, although the differences aren't as stark as the price gap would suggest. Realistically, the Ultra-Light is all most of us need for beach days, summer camping, and boating trips, and the combination of value and performance earns it our top billing for 2024. See the RTIC 52 QT Ultra-Light

Best Premium Cooler with Excellent Ice Retention

2. yeti tundra 65 ($350).

In the world of coolers, Yeti pioneered the high-end concept, and the Tundra is its best-selling and most versatile model. This popular line features premium cooling and ice-retention capabilities with a thick, rotomolded build that’s more durable and less prone to cracking than injection-molded options like the RTIC above. Further, you get a handy basket for dry goods, secure closures, and multiple tie-down slots to easily secure it on a boat or truck bed. What's more, the Tundra is certified as bear-resistant ( locks are sold separately for $30 ), which is great for those who plan to spend time in bear country. Throw in Yeti's clean styling and a nice selection of classy colorways from simple white to dark olive, and the Tundra 65 is an exceptionally well built and good-looking option for everything for car camping to road tripping and long days on the water (provided you have a generously sized boat or raft).

The biggest downside of buying a Yeti is price. At $350 MSRP (a Yeti is a great item to get on sale), this cooler is more expensive than comparable models from brands like RTIC and Orca. In addition, the “65” in the Tundra’s name is a bit of a misnomer: With its 2-inch-thick walls, the capacity ends up being closer to 60 quarts (the other Tundra sizes are also a bit smaller than the product titles would insinuate). And finally, the Tundra's rotomolded build means it lacks integrated add-ons like cup holders or a bottle opener. But if you’re set on a Yeti, we understand. You do pay a premium for the brand, but it's hard to beat the durability of a rotomolded cooler (ours has been going strong for over 10 years) and the Tundra has an excellent track record of performance. See the Yeti Tundra 65

Best Budget Cooler

3. coleman 316 series 70-quart ($85).

Coleman is nearly synonymous with car camping and offers a wide range of products at very reasonable price points. In the budget cooler category, we like their 70-quart 316 Series model best. For around $85 on Amazon at the time of publishing, you get a generous amount of interior space, Coleman’s Have-a-Seat lid that supports up to 250 pounds (we frequently use our coolers as added seating, so this is a nice touch), and four handy cup holders on top. It’s certainly not a Yeti, but this inexpensive cooler is reasonably durable for the price and will far outperform Styrofoam and other cheaper models.

There are almost always notable sacrifices when going this cheap, and the Coleman’s biggest downfall is its inability to keep ice frozen for long. Ice retention is listed at five days, but in our experience, it’s closer to two or three days in good conditions (the lack of lid latches certainly doesn’t help). We recommend pre-chilling the cooler prior to loading it up (which we detail in our buying advice below) and keeping it in the shade to help maximize performance. But considering the Coleman undercuts most of the high-end rotomolded competition by $150 or more, it’s hard to be overly critical. In other words, for casual outings and shorter ones in particular, the Coleman is all many campers need and nothing they don’t. See the Coleman 316 Series 70-Quart

Best Small Cooler for Day Trips

4. yeti roadie 24 ($250).

If the Tundra above is too much cooler for your intended use, Yeti's Roadie is far more convenient and manageable. Ideal for day trip uses like paddling, picnics, or outdoor concerts, the 24-quart Roadie offers the build quality and impressive ice retention that Yeti is known for in a small and reasonably light (13 lb. 1 oz.) package. Importantly, despite its diminutive size, Yeti didn’t skimp on features: You get a stout rotomolded construction, thick rubber latches that can be opened and closed with one hand, and compatibility with the brand’s Tie-Down Kit to secure on a boat or in a truck bed or trailer. All told, if most of your adventures are of the done-in-a-day variety, the Yeti Roadie is a great option.

However, despite its competitive feature set, the Yeti Roadie is decidedly undersized for most. For reference, RTIC’s 52 QT Ultra-Light above offers around double the capacity for $50 less, giving it the clear edge in value. On the flip side, the Roadie is considerably lighter, takes up far less space in a trunk, and retains the same impressive cooling capabilities that we love about the brand’s Tundra series. But while it’s hard to argue with the premium quality and rugged nature of a Yeti rotomolded build, the Roadie 24 realistically is a niche cooler with a steep price tag. If you’re not ready to make the investment, check out Pelican’s 20QT Elite and Igloo’s BMX 25 below, which cost less while offering similar benefits to the Roadie but with a step down in overall quality and performance. A final option to consider is RovR's new CoolR , which is a nice middle ground in terms of price ($175) and insulating capabilities and comes with a handy shoulder strap for better portability... Read in-depth Roadie review See the Yeti Roadie 24

Best Cooler with Wheels

5. rovr products rollr 60 ($399).

If you plan on covering any kind of distance from your vehicle—whether it be to your campsite, a spot along the river, or a cabin retreat—wheels can make transport a whole lot easier. And no cooler is better equipped for the job than the RovR RollR. This Boulder-based wheeled-cooler specialist offers its signature RollR in four capacities from 45 to 80 quarts, with the mid-range 60-quart model offering the best versatility of the bunch, in our experience. On all versions, you get big and burly wheels that work over pretty much any terrain (including tricky surfaces like sand and rocky trails), a long handle that’s easy to grab from either side, and a generously sized dry goods bin for stashing perishables that you want to keep fresh. A final feather in the RollR’s cap is the wide selection of fun add-ons, from kitchen basics like a prep board and cup holders to canvas bins that fit perfectly inside the cooler, beefier tires for shuttling longer distances on sand or heavier loads, and even an attachment kit for towing behind your bike.

As you might expect from a cooler with this many bells and whistles, the RovR RollR 60 is quite expensive at $400, which is a considerable $50 more than the similarly sized Yeti Tundra 65 above. Speaking of Yeti, we found that the RovR falls a little short in ice retention despite its similarly premium rotomolded build. It's for this reason that Yeti’s Roadie 48 tops our wheeled cooler round-up , in addition to saving you a considerable amount of weight and bulk (the Roadie is nearly 12 lb. lighter than the RollR). But the RovR's all-terrain functionality and customizability are second to none, and there's no denying the all-around fun factor. Depending on your needs and objectives, both are premium and expertly built designs that will stand the test of time.  See the RovR Products RollR 60

Best Soft-Sided Cooler

6. rtic soft pack cooler 30 can ($119).

As much as we appreciate the impressive ice retention and long-term durability of a hard-sided cooler, there are times when a soft cooler simply makes more sense. In general, soft coolers are considerably lighter, much easier to carry and store, and a whole lot cheaper than their hard-sided counterparts—great for day trips to the park or beach, tailgates, afternoons on the water, or quick errands like grocery store runs. Our favorite in this category is RTIC's 30-can Soft Pack Cooler, which combines competitive insulating performance—for a soft-sided design, that is—and practical features in an affordable but very premium-feeling package. Those who spend a lot of time on the water will also appreciate that it floats, which can't be said of the hard-sided competition.

Again, however, soft-sided coolers do have their limitations. The biggest is ice retention: While the Soft Pack's listed two-day ice retention is respectable for a soft-sided design, it can't hold a candle to premium rotomolded options from Yeti, RovR, Orca, and others that can keep ice frozen for over a week. Compared to other soft coolers, the RTIC is also a little low on features, including just a single, narrow pocket at the front and no daisy chain system for attaching accessories externally. And like RTIC's Ultra-Light above and Ultra-Tough below, the Soft Pack is only available directly through RTIC's website. But the value remains hard to beat, and we find ourselves reaching for a soft cooler over—and in addition to—a hard cooler surprisingly often. See the RTIC Soft Pack Cooler 30 Can

Best of the Rest

7. xspec pro 60 quart ($230).

Rotomolded coolers like Yeti's Tundra above are made out of a single piece of continuous plastic, which is great for durability but means they typically lack built-in features and mounting locations. Xspec’s 60 Quart is a notable exception, with a tough rotomolded build but a functional assortment of extras, including integrated bottle openers and a compass, an air release valve (in addition to the standard drain plug, which is common on most designs), and even a ruler for measuring the size of a fish. Tack on a price that undercuts the similarly sized Tundra 65 above by a considerable $135, and the Xspec stands out as a very well-rounded design at a great value.

In addition to the drop in price, there are a couple other noteworthy differences between the Xspec Pro and Yeti Tundra. Specifically, the Xspec isn’t certified as bear-resistant—a downside for those who frequently camp in areas where bear-proof gear is required—and also lacks a dry goods basket, which can be helpful for keeping produce fresh for longer. If these are must-haves for you, Arctic Zone’s Titan 55Q is a little smaller, costs $45 more (on Amazon at the time of publishing), and lacks the Xspec’s full feature set but is certified as bear-resistant and comes with a wire basket for separating perishables. Finally, some users have noted that ice melts a bit quicker in the Xspec than in a Yeti, but again, it’s hard to argue with the combination of price, features, and overall build quality. See the Xspec Pro 60 Quart

8. Coleman Steel Belted Cooler ($200)

For many people and uses, Yetis and other high-end coolers on this list are overkill. And if you want a step up from a budget model but don’t need premium cooling or a bear-proof design, the Coleman Steel Belted is a nice middle ground. At $200 full MSRP (colorways often vary on Amazon), you get a tough build with metal components along with a classic look that’s been a mainstay at campgrounds and backyard cookouts for decades. The claimed four days of ice retention may be a little optimistic in the real world, but this cooler is more than enough for road tripping, campouts, and day use. And we like the 54-quart capacity, which beats out the Yeti's popular Tundra 45 while managing to weigh 4 pounds less.

In terms of build quality, the Steel Belted is a noticeable improvement from Coleman’s plastic 316 Series model above but falls well short of high-end rotomolded designs. In addition, the single-latch lid doesn’t seal as easily or effectively, and the thin metal handles are uncomfortable to grab and hold for extended periods, especially when loaded down. All told, the Coleman is great for casual outings like camping, backyard parties, or beach trips, but it’s less at home in a boat or scenarios where you need maximum ice retention, portability, or toughness. Coleman also offers a modernized Reunion variation with a matte finish and built-in bottle opener for $240. See the Coleman Steel Belted Cooler

9. Orca 40 Cooler ($325)

It’s always risky business trying to reinvent the wheel, but Norway-based Oyster pulled it off surprisingly well with their innovative Tempo Cooler. Unlike most competitors, the Tempo boasts a double-wall aluminum build that’s vacuum-insulated (similar to a thermos or travel mug), which is designed to trap cold inside the cooler and block external heat from entering. In between the walls, Oyster utilized silica in place of traditional foam or plastic to maximize the interior (it takes up much less space while providing similar thermal efficiency). The brand makes some big claims about overall cold retention and performance that are hard to verify, but initial reports have been overwhelmingly positive: The Tempo is on par with or better than most premium rotomolded designs. And perhaps most importantly, you don’t need to adhere to the usual 2:1 ice-to-food ratio—just throw in a couple of cold packs (the cooler comes with two).

It's worth noting that the Oyster Tempo isn’t the only vacuum-insulated cooler on the market. For $110 more, Yeti’s stainless steel V Series is considerably larger at 55 quarts (it fits 96 cans compared to the Oyster’s 36) but weighs over 34 pounds empty. By comparison, the 12-pound-5.5-ounce Tempo is much easier to tote from car to campsite but realistically doesn’t have enough capacity for large groups or more than a couple days away at most. We also think the handle could be improved—it’s rigid and not all that comfortable for hauling, although Oyster does include a separate, over-the-shoulder carry strap that can be swapped in. In any case, the Tempo is a very promising new design, especially for activities when insulation matters more than capacity—think keeping meat chilled at a cookout or spending an afternoon at the park or on the water. It works with hot items, too. See the Oyster Tempo Cooler

11. Pelican 20QT Elite ($200)

For those who don’t know, Pelican is an industry leader in tough, dependable cases for storing and protecting everything from camera equipment and laptops to guns and drones. Therefore, the jump to hard-sided coolers was a logical progression. Like the venerable Yeti Roadie above, Pelican’s 20QT Elite here is a lower-capacity option for day trips on the water, strapping to the back of an ATV, and other short outings away from home. Stacked up against the Roadie, the Pelican is $50 cheaper (albeit with slightly less storage) but comes with functional extras like integrated cup holders, easier-to-use latches, and a more robust carry handle. We also like the unique assortment of multi-toned colorways that add a nice dose of flair.

Why do we rank the Roadie above the Pelican? The biggest compromises are quality and performance: While the rotomolded Roadie is lauded for its impressive ice retention and undeniably top-shelf build, the injection-molded Pelican is a step down in all-out durability and cooling capabilities (ice retention is listed at an unimpressive two days, although that should be plenty given the small size). And it’s worth noting that neither the Roadie nor the Pelican has a drain plug, which can make dumping melted ice a bit of an involved process. That said, if you’re looking for a portable option for day trips, the Pelican’s compact design and reasonable price make it a competitive Yeti alternative. For personal use and those who work outside all day—including rescue personnel and construction workers—Pelican sells smaller and lighter 8-quart ($70)  and  14-quart ($120) capacities. See the Pelican 20QT Elite

12. RTIC 45 QT Ultra-Tough Cooler ($220)

RTIC’s 52 QT Ultra-Light above offers a hard-to-beat combination of weight, capacity, and price, but its injection-molded design falls a little short of rotomolded options in all-out durability. Enter RTIC’s tougher 45 QT Ultra-Tough Cooler, which represents another strong value from the brand at just $20 more than the Ultra-Light. In fact, at $220, it’s the cheapest rotomolded design on our list—even undercutting the diminutive Yeti Roadie 24 ($250). And like the Ultra-Light, the Ultra-Tough comes nicely appointed with two ports for quickly draining excess water, durable T-handles that keep the lid locked securely in place, grippy rubber feet, and rope handles with comfortable grips for easy hauling. 

You do pay a penalty in capacity by 7 quarts with the 45 QT Ultra-Tough Cooler, which makes it less appealing for longer camping trips than the Ultra-Light 52 (stepping up to the 65 QT Ultra-Tough increases price to $250). And weight jumps by over 5 pounds, so it's harder to carry solo (although 26.5 lb. is fairly standard—if not a bit light—for a rotomolded design of this size). Finally, ice retention is listed at just 5 days compared to a full week for the Ultra-Light, although we haven't experienced any notable difference in insulating performance. In the end, the Ultra-Tough’s advantages over the Ultra-Light aren’t enough for us to rank it higher, but it’s another well-made cooler at a very competitive price. Of note: RTIC also offers the design in a smaller 20-quart version for $149, as well as larger options that range from 65 all the way up to 145 quarts. See the RTIC 45 QT Ultra-Tough Cooler

13. Goat Hub 50 ($500)

There aren’t a ton of innovative ideas cropping up in the hard-sided cooler market, but Texas-based Goat did a great job thinking outside the box with their inventive Hub. The design is highlighted by a creative built-in storage system: Deep slots along the sides pair with the brand’s container-like Cans (four are included with purchase), which are great for stashing small camp and kitchen accessories. You also get a handy cargo net at the front for securing lighter items like snacks, a thin jacket, or a collapsible dog bowl. And for those who like to geek out on their gear, Goat offers the option to build your own Hub system with customizations for capacity, color, and Can kits that come preloaded with essentials like first aid supplies, hygiene basics, and more (there are currently 20+ kits to choose from). Added up, the Hub is one of the most thoughtfully built and practical designs on the market.

That said, while we love the Hub's creative solution for gear storage, it does eat into the amount of usable space in the main cooler compartment. For reference, the Hub 50 here has a capacity of just 38 quarts for ice, food, and beverages, while most similarly sized competitors offer around 45 to 50 quarts. Goat does sell a larger 62-quart Hub 70 , but it’s even pricier at $600 and noticeably hefty at over 42 pounds (the Hub 50 is pretty manageable at 25 lb.). That said, the built-in storage does help offset the drop in capacity, and overall build quality is top-notch. From overlanding and hunting to casual days at the lake or beach, the Hub is a real standout and makes organization a breeze. See the Goat Hub 50

14. Igloo Ecocool 52 ($60)

We tend to steer clear of most bargain-basement coolers—they may work well for a day or two but often lack the impressive ice retention of premium models and won’t stand up as well to regular outdoor use. Igloo’s Ecocool 52 isn’t totally exempt from these drawbacks, but it’s more well rounded and functional than much of the budget competition. For just $60, the Igloo boasts a generous 52-quart capacity, and the proprietary foam insulation does a good job keeping food and drinks chilled for up to three days (in the right conditions, of course). The feature set is also pretty well sorted for the price, including four self-draining cup holders and functional lifts at the bottom that slightly elevate the cooler off the ground or truck bed. Igloo also added holes in the swing-up handles, allowing you to string a bungee between them to make carrying heavier loads easier.

In terms of overall build quality, the Igloo Ecocool is a slight step up from many of Coleman’s budget designs but still can’t hold a candle to most of the pricier competition. The recycled plastic used for the body and lid is decidedly cheaper-feeling and less confidence-inspiring than rotomolded designs from Yeti, Xspec, Orca, and others (again, we’ve had Yetis withstand over a decade of use with almost no wear to show for it). Further, we’re disappointed that Igloo omitted a drain plug—you’ll have to manually drain any water once the ice starts to melt—and lid latches, meaning the cooler lacks a secure seal and isn’t an efficient insulator. But if you’re not quite ready to invest in a $200+ cooler and are willing to set reasonable expectations, the Igloo is a perfectly serviceable entry-level pick for weekend getaways and day outings like picnics or trips to the farmers’ market. See the Igloo Ecocool 52

15. Roam 45QT Rugged Cooler ($319)

Roam is primarily a rooftop tent manufacturer and well regarded among serious outdoor-goers like overlanders and those who like to get off the grid. But their foray into coolers hasn’t gone unnoticed, combining the ruggedness and utility that Roam is known for with a myriad of functional features. The 45QT model here is their most popular size and comes fully appointed with a handy storage basket, removable cup holder, internal divider that doubles as a cutting board, integrated bottle opener, and multiple carry options and tie-down points. And importantly, all these features are integrated nicely and have the same solid and confidence-inspiring feel as the rest of the aptly named Rugged.

All told, the 45QT Rugged Cooler has a lot going for it: It insulates well (ice retention is listed at eight days), will stand up to rough use with a tough rotomolded build, and is one of the most well-equipped options here. However, Roam still is a relative newcomer to the cooler market, and competitors like Yeti, RTIC, and others above offer similarly priced alternatives with long track records to back them up. Another small (albeit entirely subjective) complaint is that the Rugged Cooler has a pretty utilitarian look, which lines up with Roam's overlanding focus but detracts from the cooler’s all-around appeal. But this may be enough to sway some: Roam backs their Rugged Cooler collection with a lifetime warranty against manufacturer defects, which speaks volumes to their overall craftsmanship. See the Roam 45QT Rugged Cooler

16. Igloo Trailmate Journey ($250)

Igloo’s Trailmate Journey is the cooler equivalent of an all-terrain vehicle: The oversized (10 in.) wheels have deep tread to plow through sand, grass, and other soft surfaces, and the burly plastic and metal construction is built to withstand the rigors of regular outdoor use. Throw in a host of fun and well-executed extras including four cup holders, a mesh storage pocket, integrated bottle openers, a “butler” tray for storage and food prep, and even a built-in phone stand, and you get the most fully featured cooler on our list. We also love the legs and telescoping handle, which make toting easy and keep the bottom of the cooler protected and clean.

No cooler is perfect, however, and we do have some sizable concerns with the Igloo Trailmate. First is the fairly middling four-day ice retention (remember, coolers rarely live up to these claims), which falls well short of the RovR RollR above (10 days). Additionally, the substantial build and sheer number of features add a decent amount of bulk and weight. And not everyone will like the utilitarian looks and styling, which are a far cry from streamlined, sleek models from Yeti, RTIC, and other brands above. Finally, a number of users have reported premature durability issues, including stuck glide handles, broken hinges, and subpar components. But at $250 for a massive 70 quarts of capacity, the Igloo is a good value and backed by a 1-year warranty should you encounter any problems with workmanship. See the Igloo Trailmate Journey

17. Pelican 80QW Elite Wheeled ($570)

On the heels of the Igloo Trailmate Journey above is the crème de la crème of wheeled coolers: Pelican’s 80QW Elite. Right off the bat, we’ll address the astronomical price: At $570, this cooler is the most expensive unit here by a sizable margin and has limited appeal for the average outdoors-goer. That said, for targeted uses like hunting, fishing, and other activities that warrant the massive capacity, it’s a true standout. The Pelican boasts heavy-duty wheels, glove-friendly latches, and an extendable handle for easy hauling and handling, as well as a freezer-grade seal and two inches of foam insulation to maximize freshness. You even get an integrated fish scale and garden hose-compatible drain plug to make cleaning a breeze. Tack on a lifetime warranty (for reference, Yeti's warranty for their Tundra series is five years), and there’s a lot to like with the burly 80QW.

Pelican designs many of its products for agencies like the military and law enforcement, and this tactical styling is readily apparent in its cooler line. In other words, if you’re looking for a sleek and streamlined unit, this isn’t it. The handles are bulky and rigid, the color options are relatively subdued, and the cooler itself is undeniably hefty at 52 pounds before food, drinks, and ice. But again, most people who buy this cooler aren’t overly concerned with looks and simply want a large, beefy, and functional option for safely transporting game or fish. If that’s your end use, the 80QW Elite should be on your short list. See the Pelican 80QW Elite Wheeled

  18. Igloo BMX 25 ($90)

Joining the ranks of Yeti's Roadie 24 and Pelican’s 20QT Elite above, Igloo’s BMX 25 is another lower-capacity option for day trips. The biggest selling point here is price: At just $90, the BMX undercuts the Roadie by a whopping $160 and the Pelican by $110, which is excellent news for those on a budget. Igloo didn’t skimp on features either, with a triple-point grab handle that boasts rubber on the bottom for easy gripping, a stainless steel kick plate to boost protection, and—similar to the Xspec 60 Pro above—a molded ruler on the lid for measuring the size of a fish. All in all, the Igloo is well appointed, built to last, and an enticing value. 

That said, it’s still important to set reasonable expectations at this price point. As we saw with budget models like the Coleman 316 Series and Igloo's own Ecocool above, the BMX's ice retention is a considerable step down from high-end options from Yeti, RTIC, Orca, and others (Igloo lists it at four days, which seems like a stretch). Some users also report leaking around the lid due to the lack of rubber seal, which likely has an impact on those cooling capabilities. To be fair, the BMX is a sizable improvement performance-wise from many ultra-cheap plastic models on the market, but if you want more than a day or two of ice retention, we recommend spending up for the Pelican 20QT Elite or Yeti Roadie 24 above. See the Igloo BMX 25 

19. Coleman 50-Quart Xtreme w/ Wheels ($65)

For $65, the 50-quart Coleman Xtreme is another standout in the value category, and this time with wheels. With a similar overall construction as our top budget pick, this basic cooler certainly is a far cry from the RovR RollR, Igloo Trailmate, and Pelican 80QW Elite above, but the functionality is decent for the price. The simple plastic wheels and tow handle make transporting the cooler over smooth surfaces relatively easy, the hard-sided build provides modest insulation for day or short overnight getaways, and the integrated cup holders atop the lid are convenient for storing drinks. All told, like the non-wheeled 316 Series model above, this Coleman cooler should meet the needs of many recreational campers, concert-goers, and tailgaters without breaking the bank. 

That said, as with any budget product, the Xtreme wheeled cooler makes a number of sacrifices to cut costs. First, the cooler is far less durable than premium roto- and injection-molded models (when testing them together, the cheap and lightweight materials were very noticeable). We also had trouble keeping the lid open while loading and unloading the cooler, which made the process fairly painstaking, and the plastic wheels struggle even on marginally bumpy paths. Finally, as we touched on above, we’ve found Coleman’s five-day ice retention claim to be overly optimistic (in practice, it’s been much shorter for us). But again, it’s hard to knock the bargain-basement price of the Xtreme wheeled cooler, which represents another strong value from Coleman. See the Coleman 50-Quart Xtreme w/ Wheels

Cooler Comparison Table

*Editor's note: This number represents claimed ice retention. In real-world use and depending on the specific circumstances, we've found these times to be quite a bit lower. More in our " Ice Retention and Cooling Capabilities " section below. 

About Our Testing Process

Camping is all about maximizing comfort while spending time outdoors, and having fresh food and cold drinks can make all the difference. Former editor-in-chief John Ellings compiled our initial list of 18 top coolers in 2019. Based in the Pacific Northwest, John spends most weekends each summer camping with his family. Managing editor and former full-time vanlifer Sarah Nelson started contributing in 2021, helping dial in the list based on her experiences on the road throughout the Mountain West. Editor Maddie Downie took over the guide in 2024, drawing from her extensive camping experiences throughout temperate western Washington and dry, hot Colorado.

Our current lineup of 19 coolers reflects our ongoing testing experiences, firsthand info from contributors, and feedback from the online camping community. When we put coolers to the test, our primary consideration is ice retention, which we evaluate by exposing each cooler to varying conditions—from midday heat and full sun to cool nighttime temperatures—and making note of how long ice stays frozen. We also consider weight and portability by filling our coolers to the brim and hauling them into camp, and we utilize each feature (e.g., drain systems, cup holders, and bottle openers) to get an idea of overall quality and functionality. We recognize that the cooler market isn’t static and, as a result, continue to test new and noteworthy designs as they become available.  

Cooler Buying Advice

Hard-sided vs. soft-sided coolers, cooler construction: rotomolding vs. injection molding, cooler sizes (capacities).

• Ice Retention and Cooling Capabilities

Weight and Portability

Wheeled (rolling) coolers, are expensive coolers worth it.

• Cooler Latch and Closure Systems

Bear-Resistant Ratings

Cooler drain systems, accessories and add-ons.

• Ice Types: Crushed, Blocks, Packs, or Dry
• Cooler Warranties  

Our list above comprises mostly hard-sided coolers, with just one soft-sided offering: RTIC's Soft Pack 30 Can . In deciding which style is right for you, the decision will largely come down to preferences on insulating performance, durability, weight, and cost. In general, hard-sided coolers will keep your food and beverage cold for significantly longer than soft-sided designs and are built with much tougher materials that hold up better over time. For example, the RTIC Soft Pack has a listed two days of ice retention, while premium hard coolers from Yeti, Orca, RovR, and others above will keep ice frozen for a week or longer. Hard coolers are also typically available in much larger capacities than soft coolers, which is worth considering if you often camp with a group.   

That said, soft coolers make a lot of sense for day trips, afternoons on the water, or outings to the grocery store or farmer's market. In addition to being substantially lighter, soft coolers are much easier to tote thanks to their straps and grab handles—some even come with backpack-style straps for covering longer distances. As a final bonus, soft coolers are generally much cheaper than their hard-sided counterparts. In the end, those who plan to use their cooler every weekend will almost certainly benefit from spending up for a hard-sided model. But if you're simply looking for a cheap way to keep food and drinks cold for the day, a soft cooler is a great alternative. For a full breakdown of options, check out our articles on the best soft coolers and best backpack coolers .  

Construction techniques for premium hard-sided coolers fall into two types: rotational molding (rotomolding) and injection molding. Starting with rotomolding, this process was popularized by Yeti (although they technically weren’t the first to make a cooler in this way) and currently dominates the high end of the market. These types of coolers are made out of a single piece of continuous plastic that is rotated until it forms the desired shape. The advantages are fewer stress points (these coolers are less likely to crack under pressure) and a consistently thick outer shell, which translates to exceptional durability. Primary disadvantages are cost and weight.   

What about injection molding? These coolers are simply made by inserting hot plastic into a defined mold, given time to cool, and then removed. The process is simpler and cheaper than rotomolding and allows for greater precision because of the molded shapes. But they’re made with multiple pieces—unlike the single, uninterrupted form with rotomolding—which can lead to a drop in durability and added susceptibility to cracking. That being said, a high-end build like RTIC’s 52 QT Ultra-Light stacks up favorably to top rotomolded coolers in overall toughness. Many injection-molded designs also allow for various mounting locations for accessories like tables, cup holders, and cutting boards—something you don’t typically get with rotomolding.

If you're researching this, you may be wondering how the two designs differ in terms of overall cooling performance. All else being equal, a cooler's construction does not inherently affect ice retention. In other words, a premium injection-molded cooler should stack up favorably in terms of insulating abilities to a comparable rotomolded design. That said, because most high-end coolers utilize rotomolded builds, the two tend to correlate more often than not—a quick check of our list reveals that most rotomolded designs retain ice for about 10 days (based on manufacturer claims), while many injection-molded offerings come up well short at just 2 to 4. But again, there are exceptions to this rule: The aforementioned injection-molded RTIC 52 QT Ultra-Light, for instance, is rated to keep ice frozen for up to seven days, while their rotomolded 45 QT Ultra-Tough Cooler is listed at just five days.

Before we jump in, there are a few considerations to note regarding sizing. Most importantly, not all coolers measure interior capacity in the same way. Some use cans as a unit of measure, while others use liters, quarts, or gallons. That said, quarts are what the majority of manufacturers list, and we’ve utilized that form of measurement throughout this article (when available). And a final note: Don’t be misled by the number in a product’s name. The Yeti Tundra 65 , for example, only boasts around a 60-quart capacity once you account for its thick walls.  

Medium: 35-55 Quarts Stepping up to the 35- to 55-quart range gets you an all-purpose model: These coolers are compact enough to squeeze into a loaded car trunk or truck bed, can typically be carried by one person, and don’t take up too much space on a boat or raft. In our testing, we found that 35-, 40-, or 45-quart coolers sufficed for groups of one to two for a couple days. If your party exceeds that, it’s worth bumping the capacity up to 55 quarts or higher for the same time frame. And if you plan to go on an extended outing or are traveling with a large group, you’ll want to check out the larger sizes below.  

Large: 55-75 Quarts As we touched on above, if you’re headed out with two or more people over multiple days, it’s worth packing a large cooler. It’s true that you’ll likely need a second person to help transport it to and from the car, but the upside is enough space to utilize a proper 2:1 ice-to-food ratio to maximize performance (we cover this in more detail below). In the 55- to 75-quart range, we like Yeti's Tundra 65 best: It has a great mix of storage capacity, ice retention, and features that should meet the needs of most small groups on extended weekends or larger families on overnight trips. But at more than 30 inches long and 16 inches high, it does take up a fair amount of space in a trunk or pickup bed.  

Most cooler manufacturers provide a “claimed ice retention” spec in their product listings (Yeti is one major brand who does not). A quick look at the table above shows that the times range from 10 days at the high end for premium designs like the RovR Products RollR 60, Orca 40, Goat Hub 50, and Pelican 80QW Elite to just two days for Pelican's 20QT Elite  and RTIC's soft-sided Soft Pack 30 Can. That said, we always take manufacturer-provided specs with a grain of salt, and there isn’t an established, standardized test here. In practice, most of the claimed ice retention times feel quite inflated to us, perhaps due to extremely favorable testing conditions (storing the cooler inside with the lid closed in cool temperatures, for example). If we had to generalize it, we would say that you should expect to get approximately half of the claimed ice retention time in real-world use, give or take depending on your specific circumstances.  

If you are looking for maximum cooling power, premium rotomolded coolers from brands like Yeti, RTIC, and Orca are the clear leaders in keeping ice cold for long stretches. You definitely pay for the privilege, but you can expect multiple days of cold temperatures and solid ice in your cooler with these high-end offerings, and that time goes down as you move toward cheaper hard-sided coolers and soft-sided designs . If you need ice for extended periods (we’re thinking of you, rafters and multi-day campers), the cost is worth it. But for those on day trips or shorter overnight outings with access to new ice, an inexpensive cooler like the Coleman 316 Series or Igloo Ecocool is a fine option.

For those who plan to carry or move their cooler with any regularity, weight should be an important consideration. Even when empty, hard-sided options weigh anywhere from 10-15 pounds for low-capacity models up to 50+ pounds for premium designs with 75+ quarts of storage. Once loaded down with ice, food, and beverages, that number skyrockets. And despite including carry handles, they're simply too hefty to travel with for long distances. If portability is a priority, we recommend looking at options with wheels, such as RovR’s RollR 60 or Igloo’s Trailmate Journey . Although these units still are decidedly hefty (the RovR is around 40 lb., while the Igloo is just under 35), the wheels make them much easier and less cumbersome to transport for extended periods, even just for one person. Alternatively, soft-sided designs like the RTIC Soft Pack 30 Can (4 lb.) weigh even less, although insulating performance and durability are notable compromises.  

Well over half of the coolers on our list cost $200 or more, which goes to show how pricey these units can be. But in our opinion, the cost is fairly easy to justify. Hard-sided coolers from Yeti, RTIC, Orca, and others are able to keep ice frozen for significantly longer than budget options from companies like Coleman or Igloo. And while bags of ice come relatively cheap, it can be a real pain to have to drain your cooler and replace the ice on a daily basis (not to mention having to travel and purchase more of it). Another benefit of high-end hard-sided units is durability—the difference in quality is immediately apparent and some of the best out there are truly meant to last a lifetime. All that said, if you just need a reliable cooler for days at the beach or packing a lunch on the road, it’s probably a good idea to save your cash. But if you consistently head outside for days at a time, the investment is well worth it.

A final factor when considering a high-end cooler is longevity. Simply put, coolers are unlike most other categories of outdoor gear that may last for just for a couple seasons before needing to be replaced. We have a family member who purchased an original Yeti Tundra back when the line first hit the market in 2008, and the cooler is basically like new today (he had to replace one rubber latch after more than 10 years of use, but that’s it). This means that when you’re making the calculation of whether spending $300 or $400 on a cooler is worth it, you are getting a product that literally should last for decades. That said, if you don’t need multi-day ice retention, even a cheaper hard-sided cooler should be around for many years as well.   

Many of the top hard-sided coolers are listed as bear-resistant, which is a worthwhile consideration should you be camping in bear country. Specifically, you should look for an IGBC (Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee) rating, which designates that a certain cooler has gone through the appropriate testing and been deemed compliant with the organization’s regulations. However, not all coolers listed as bear-resistant carry this certification—you can see a full list of certified coolers here . If you frequent the backcountry or will be traveling where bear-proof gear is required, make sure your cooler is on the list.

Most of the hard-sided coolers on our list have drainage systems to help you empty out water once your ice has melted. Typically, this comes in the form of a screw-on or pop-off cap at the base of the cooler—simply take it off and let the water pour out. Some also boast drainage channels that funnel water through the opening, which is a nice touch for helping with the clean-up process. Yeti's Roadie 24 and Pelican’s 20QT Elite are two notable exceptions that don’t come with drain plugs, which can make dumping out extra water a bit of a hassle. However, given these coolers’ smaller capacities, most users will be restocking the contents frequently anyway.  

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15 Best Coolers For Air Travel

• Travel Gear
• 15 Best Coolers For Air…

Air travel can be challenging, especially if you need to bring frozen goods with you. TSA regulation requires you not to bring any liquid into the airplane, so ice is not an option to bring onto the plane. Carrying a cooler can be a problem, too. That’s because most of them aren’t very compact and heavy to carry. Luckily, soft-sided coolers are here to help you travel with chilled frozen! Enter the best coolers for air travel! Unlike hard-sided coolers, these coolers are relatively lightweight and a breeze to carry. From a waterproof to a collapsible cooler for air travel, below are some of the best available options. Read on to find out our favorites!

Table of contents

Akaso 6l small collapsible cooler bag, dbest products ultra compact cooler smart cart, polar bear original nylon soft cooler, clevermade collapsible cooler bag, permian portable cooler roll top, norchill can voyager series insulated soft-sided cooler, bison coolers soft-sided insulated cooler bag, ao coolers soft cooler, coleman soft cooler bag, coleman soft backpack cooler, hydro flask carry out soft cooler, columbia pfg skiff guide cooler pack, arctic zone titan deep freeze, icemule – devoe designs backpack, yeti hopper backflip cooler backpack, our verdict, form factor, durability and comfort, ice retention, can i take a cooler on an airplane, do soft-sided coolers work, are soft coolers waterproof.

The AKASO 6L Collapsible Cooler for air travel may be small, but it’s more than enough to hold a complete meal for one. This makes it a great alternative to your ordinary lunch box. Its size is also perfect to be your personal carry-on item. Put it under the seat – or in the overhead compartment – this collapsible travel cooler bag won’t take away your legroom!

In addition to that, this bag is made of high-quality nylon fabric. This means it’s both waterproof and easy to clean. This feature is useful in case you spill something on it. A quick rinse or even a wet wipe is enough to get rid of the fresh stain. Though small, this bag can hold six cans of beer. We think it’s the perfect collapsible cooler for air travel to accompany your flight over the midwest!

• Though small, it can hold up to six cans of beer.
• It can retain coolness for up to 24 hours.
• This waterproof cooler bag’s 420D Nylon Oxford fabric is easy to clean.
• It might be too small for some travelers.

Drag dbest products Ultra-Compact Cooler Smart Cart to any picnic spot, and you can say goodbye to hassles! With its four-gallon capacity, you only need one bag to fit everything from sandwiches, fruits, and water to a bottle of wine. The two wheels on the back and two feet on the front make this cooler easy to carry, yet able to stand up straight as you take its content out on your picnic table.

This bag won’t take up so much space in your closet when not in use. This collapsible cooler can be folded down easily for air travel, picnic, camping (or perhaps glamping). Besides, it weighs less than 3 lbs! Even your kids won’t have any problem maneuvering it. For more storage, mesh pockets are added to the outer part of the bag. You can use them to store utensils or snacks that don’t need cooling.

• This best cooler for airline travel comes with enough mesh pockets.
• Thanks to the wheels and feet, it’s super easy to carry around.
• Weighing less than 3 lbs, this collapsible travel cooler bag is super lightweight.
• Compared to some of the best coolers for air travel, it doesn’t have the best ice retention.

The Polar Bear Original Nylon Soft Cooler slides into our list of best coolers for air travel effortlessly thanks to its build quality and capacity in such a compact size! This 24-can cooler is perfect for keeping your favorite beverages cold on a weekend getaway. The compact size also makes it a great cold pack to bring onto an airplane with you. With hand webbing and padded straps, carrying this cooler all day is a breeze! No wonder many people see it as the best travel cooler for flying!

The skin is made of highly durable 840D Nylon with some reinforcement at the base. To prevent air from seeping from the outside, the interior is protected by high-density foam insulation to ensure 24-hour ice retention. Furthermore, the bag uses the rust-proof YKK zipper in the opening. Attach the zipper ends to the steel hooks to complete the seal, and your cooler is ready for some mobile action!

• This compact cooler bag is highly durable, thanks to its 840D Nylon exterior.
• It has amazing 24-hour ice retention.
• There are multiple compartments, and the main one is expandable!
• When first unboxed, the cooler has a weird factory smell.

Another great addition to our list is the CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag , one of the most popular collapsible coolers for air travel. It’s loved because of its design and lightweight properties! This 50-can cooler is built to withstand the wear and tear of air travel. Air travel coolers are often shoved around in the cabin, slid under the seat, or dropped on harsh gravel, so they need to be tough. But tough doesn’t mean it has to look ugly! This cooler is the perfect example!

When not used, this best cooler for airplane travel folds flat until the next time you need it. It also has a clever mechanism called SnapHinge that makes folding and unfolding very easy and instant. The interior of this cooler bag is made of multiple layers of insulation to help your stuff stay frozen for at least seven hours. It’s more than enough to keep your ice packs solid before boarding your plane. With these capabilities, no wonder this is the favorite bag among food delivery services!

• Excluding the ice, it can fit up to 50 cans!
• It comes complete with a bottle opener.
• We love how solid the board base is.
• It only works best with ice packs or ice in sealed containers.

If you’re looking for a cooler bag that you can take to a plane but tough enough to go into a wild adventure, the Permian Portable Cooler Roll Top is the right choice for your lifestyle. This roll-top action cooler bag is more than your ordinary cooler sling bag for its strength and portability. You carry this bag using a sling strap across your chest. No matter what adventure awaits, this best cooler for airplane travel will keep its content cold and fresh!

Moreover, this 15-liter cooler bag fits 10 cans with ice in one heave. It’s also equipped with enhanced insulation to keep ice frozen for up to 24 hours! You won’t expect any water seepage from this bag, both from the inside and the outside. This is thanks to the sonically welded seams and the three-time roll-top opening. The best thing about this cooler bag is that it can be rolled into a compact form when not in use!

• This foldable 15L ice cooler is perfect for adventurers.
• The padded shoulder strap allows you to carry the bag comfortably.
• It has impressive 24-hour ice retention.
• Unfortunately, this isn’t the most durable option on the market.

Another highly-recommended collapsible cooler for air travel is the NorChill Can Voyager Series Insulated Soft-Sided Cooler . This expandable cooler took the market by storm in its early days with its clever but simple build that works. The look represents the chilling performance it has: efficient and effective. However, this cooler has much more to offer than its look!

The manufacturer takes pride in its successful marine-inspired, ultra-durable YKK zipper. This special zipper keeps the chill air from escaping through the zipper. The exterior is made of tough 600D Nylon and is accompanied by their trademarked GatorSkin liner. Meanwhile, the thick insulation is enough to generate about 15 hours of ice retention. Worry about spoiling the stuff inside the bag? Take out the melted water through the built-in spout!

• It has impressive ice retention, which can last more than 15 hours.
• This best cooler for airplane travel comes with an extra zippered pocket for your convenience.
• The hand webbing and padded shoulder strap make it comfy to carry around.
• The durability of the zipper can be improved.

Rugged and tough, Bison Coolers Soft-Sided Insulated Cooler Bag could be your next trusty companion to keep your stuff frozen and pass the TSA checking! Compared to other best coolers for air travel, this one might be relatively new, but the manufacturer is so confident in the quality that they gladly offer a 30-day trial and 2-year warranty for every purchase of this bag.

On top of that, this 24-can cooler feels solid to carry. It has a vinyl-coated 100D nylon as its outer skin, which is tear-resistant for up to 375 lbs. Not to mention, this best cooler for airline travel also has extra-thick insulation. But if you expect this bag to ‘swear’ profusely, you might be impressed as it doesn’t do that at all, thanks to the TPU liner that captures any unwanted condensation. Ice packs and ice works equally well with this best cooler for airplane travel. However, you should be mindful as the zipper is the only part that isn’t leakproof.

• This is a durable cooler bag that doesn’t ‘sweat’!
• It’s backed by a 30-day trial and a 2-year warranty.
• It has better longevity than some soft-sided coolers on the market.
• It’s prone to leakage when toppled over.

Best Budget. Air travel is the fastest way of transportation on Earth. However, there are many regulations to adhere to make sure you’re traveling safely and comfortably. One of the regulations prohibits any liquid in the passenger cabin, so water and ice are out of the question. What if you need to bring frozen goods? It’s important to keep it frozen (including the ice) at all times, and this is where AO Coolers Soft Cooler comes to the rescue!

In addition to that, this soft-sided cooler is lightweight and compact. According to the official product page , it can hold up to 24 cans of beverages, including ice! That’s not all, though. It also comes with a highly durable canvas material to accompany plenty of air travel. It’s one of the best coolers for air travel that’s perfect to be used with ice packs to keep everything neat and frozen inside its dense insulation. You don’t need to worry about leaking anymore since its TPU liner will keep any liquid inside as long as it’s upright!

• It is the best travel cooler for flying and has 18 hours of ice retention.
• Since it’s leak-free, you don’t have to worry about leaking anymore.
• Its lightweight and compact design mean it won’t take up so much space.
• Its fittings are made of plastic.

Best Compact Cooler. Coming from a renowned company that produces many outdoor products for families, the Coleman Soft Cooler Bag doesn’t disappoint. After all, it’s seen as one of the best coolers for air travel. This lightweight and comfortable cooler is designed specifically for your active lifestyle. Whether you want to store meat, beverages, or ice packs, this cooler effortlessly keeps them frozen for 18-24 hours!

This specialty comes from extensive engineering and material research in insulation. This nine-can cooler has company-secret, dense insulation to keep the outside air from affecting the interior’s temperature. Furthermore, it’s completely odorless both on the inside and the outside! Meanwhile, the two-way zipper is great when you have to pack a little more than you need to. Don’t worry; the zipper is super tough!

• It’s one of the best options for those searching for a small but reliable collapsible travel cooler bag.
• Thanks to the anti-microbial liner, this best cooler for airplane travel is odor-resistant.
• The two-way zipper is not only smooth but also long-lasting.
• Some travelers might find this bag too small.

The Coleman Soft Backpack Cooler is the backpack cousin of the previous product made by the same company. This comfy item is the holy grail of the normal-looking cooler backpack to accompany your flying trip! It’s lightweight and has a great form factor for an all-day carry. Like a non-cooler backpack, this mobile ice chest has multiple compartments to store a plethora of things, but the only difference is they are all finely insulated to keep your stuff cool throughout your journey!

The main compartment can hold up to 28 cans inside it – though, with the presence of ice, it will hold fewer than that. Meanwhile, the interior is lined with a special type of liner to keep it from leaking or creating condensation. However, the straps are some of the best among coolers on the market. They’re thickly padded and breathable so that you won’t get home with sweaty shoulders and back.

• There are multiple compartments that you can use to keep smaller items.
• Its backpack style makes it super easy and convenient to carry as a carry-on.
• Its two-way zipper is smooth and durable.
• Unfortunately, the handle is a bit too thin.

Who says traveling with an ice cooler means you have to walk around with a bulky, boring-looking ice chest? The Hydro Flask Carry Out Soft Cooler is a beautiful piece but a chilling beast on the inside! The tote slash shoulder bag is one of the best coolers for air travel that turns heads in the airport. Besides, its sturdy build is rarely matched by its competitors. It’s also lightweight, so you won’t have any problem strolling around the city with a full ice chest on the go.

We’re talking about the smart insulation that wraps around this cooler. It’s also the reason why the cooler strips down its weight but still maintains a decent chilling power. Instead of doubling up the insulation, this cooler enhances insulation in only several points where it is needed the most. Paired with the Aquaseal zipper, this cooler has up to 24 hours of ice retention. It really is the best cooler for airline travel. That’s worth every penny! Have a better look at this product by watching this official product video !

• It can hold ice for up to 24 hours!
• This durable and reliable cooler bag is backed by a five-year warranty.
• It features a padded, removable shoulder strap that enhances comfort.
• Some people might find this bag expensive.

The Columbia PFG Skiff Guide Cooler Pack is the child of a company that has been providing some of the best outdoor gear for centuries. It only makes sense if this portable cooler is produced to live up to its reputation. This lightweight ice chest is quite popular in the medical world, where they help millions of organs safely until they reach their destination. It makes this cooler one of the best coolers for air travel.

The robust build consists of high-density and water-resistant skin on the outside and a hard shell on the inside. This shell will make sure that there’s no leakage possible during mobility. If you notice, this bag has no zipper to start with; the engineers realize that the weakest part of an ice chest is on the zipper. With the absence of a zipper, this ice chest ensures high ice retention for up to 48 hours in normal conditions. What else do you need from a portable cooler with two insulated compartments?

• This is a robust cooler with an impressive ice retention rate.
• This product comes with two compartments unlike your regular collapsible cooler for air travel.
• It has a unique, zipperless lid design.
• It’s bigger than you thought, even though it can slide under your seat effortlessly.

Best Ice Retention Rate. The Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze is an update of one of the best coolers for air travel in the market. This cooler is arguably the best one to carry the heavy duty of keeping your stuff chilled when traveling by airplane. The simplicity and ease of use appeal to many professionals, such as paramedics and food delivery couriers. Apart from its top-notch durability, it also has an impressive ice retention rate that can make retent ice for up to three days.

The high ice retention rate is the result of several techs embedded into this ice chest. In addition, eliminating the zipper also creates a water-tight seal to avoid air seepage. Meanwhile, the HardBody removable shell keeps the whole container intact and gives a strong structure to achieve as much temperature stability as possible. With all of these breakthroughs, the cooler top it all off with a comfy shoulder carry strap that’s friendly on your shoulder!

• This is a durable cooler that can retent ice for days.
• It comes complete with an integrated bottle opener.
• The BackSaver shoulder strap is super comfy.
• Though durable, it’s not the most lightweight option available.

The Cooler Crew 😎 #ArcticZone #TitanDeepFreeze pic.twitter.com/H7lFDsGKlN — Arctic Zone (@Arctic_Zone) October 17, 2019

Best Waterproof. Are you looking for an alternative ice carrier to accompany your air journey? Then the IceMule – Devoe Designs Backpack should be one of your top options. This collapsible cooler for air travel is incredibly lightweight and compact. Carrying a hefty amount of ice won’t hurt your shoulders and back, even after a whole day of carrying! This is all thanks to the padded shoulder straps and the ingenious design! Moreover, this 9L backpack can be rolled into a convenient 7 x 5 x 5 inches in size!

Meanwhile, the PolarLayer Insulation is tough but easy to clean if you need to do some maintenance. The surprise doesn’t end there, though. This cooler ice bag can also keep things frozen for up to a 24-hour. It’s totally waterproof both on the inside and from the outside. You don’t have to worry if you want to wear this bag when it rains. Heck, it can even float when dumped into the ocean! That’s why it’s also one of the best kayak coolers !

• It comes with a convenient front pocket that you can use to store smaller items.
• This foldable bag is both waterproof and leakproof.
• It can even float on water!
• It takes extra effort to unload its content.

Best Overall. The best thing that happened to the portable cooler market is the YETI Hopper Backflip Cooler Backpack . Coming from the best brand in the cooling world, this is the cooler that flawlessly marries hard coolers’ reliability with backpacks’ portability. It’s ergonomically engineered to achieve fatigue-less carry in your entire journey with its padded shoulder straps and back support. The form factor also makes it the best cooler for air travel!

This bag’s ice retention isn’t something you can ever doubt. Under the right conditions – when it’s pre-chilled and kept sealed most of the time – it can hold ice frozen for more than two days! This power comes from the company’s trademark ColdCell insulation, paired with HydroLok Zipper, which ensures total air insulation from the outside environment. It’s completely leakproof, no matter the position. Whether sideways or upright, rest assured it won’t leave you any messy puddles. While this best travel cooler for flying is pricey compared to some options out there, it’s surely worth the investment! Read what OutdoorGearLab has to say about this product to get to know it better!

• It can hold ice frozen for days.
• Apart from being extra durable, this cooler is also leakproof.
• This is a low-maintenance product.
• It’s on the pricier side. However, it’s worth the money!

Whether you’re looking for the most portable or waterproof option, we’re sure you’ll be able to find the one you like from the list above. However, if you need help choosing one, we’ve prepared a list of our favorites! The following products are the standouts in their respective criteria!

• Best Overall: YETI Hoppper Backflip Cooler Backpack
• Best Waterproof: IceMule – Devoe Designs Backpack
• Best Ice Retention Rate: Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze
• Best Compact Cooler: Coleman Soft Cooler Bag
• Best Budget: AO Coolers Soft Cooler

How To Choose The Best Coolers for Air Travel

To board a plane with a cooler as a carry-on is easy and convenient, but finding the best coolers for air travel is an entirely different thing to tackle. There are many types and products nowadays, and you need a few pointers to help you narrow down the options. Below are some aspects needed to be considered before purchasing the best cooler for airplane travel.

It’s only natural to check on TSA regulations before boarding a plane with a cooler as your carry-on. Generally, a carry-on should not be bigger than 18 x 14 x 8 inches, and thankfully, there are plenty of coolers within the regulation limit. Soft-sided coolers, whether shoulder-carried or a backpack, are your best bet due to their lightness and ease of carrying. Remember, keep your coolers upright at all times to avoid unnecessary leaking.

If you’re planning to make frequent travels with your coolers, you’d want one that can withstand heavy wear and tear while giving your shoulders the support they need. At least, look for coolers with padded handles and shoulder straps because you need to carry your cooler comfortably. Besides, nobody wants to chaff their skin due to prolonged carrying. The next basic thing is to look for coolers with some reinforcements at pressure hot spots. Corners and strap points have to, at least, be double-sown.

What’s a cooler if it can’t keep the ice frozen? Ice retention is the key to safety and convenience. Consulting a product’s reviews and instructions will do your miles! To make things smooth from your side, it’s always better to use ice packs for coolers to pack into your coolers for airplane travel. Make sure that the ice packs are frozen by the time you board your flight. Any sign of liquefaction or liquid will result in a banned carry-on.

Absolutely yes, but within several terms. You can take your cooler as a checked bag as long as the size is within a carry-on regulation and there is no liquid present in the cooler. So, make sure you opt for ice packs instead of plain ice.

Even though they’re noticeably lighter, soft-sided coolers can offer just as much chilling power as their hard-cased brethren. Hard-cased coolers may have longer ice retention (find the best coolers for hunting here), but keeping things frozen for 2-3 days is enough to let soft-sided coolers board a plane with you. Besides, they’re much more portable and lightweight!

While most soft-sided coolers are leakproof, they only apply if they’re standing upright. To ensure how waterproof they are, you should take a simple water test on your soft-sided coolers before traveling.

Author:  Julie Wharton

As a solo traveler, I have discovered the freedom and adventure that comes from exploring the world on your own terms. With a backpack on my back and a thirst for new experiences, I have journeyed to some of the most remote and fascinating destinations on the planet. As a travel blogger, I share my stories and insights with fellow solo travelers who are looking to break free from the constraints of group tours and package deals. Whether you're a seasoned backpacker or a first-time adventurer, my blog is dedicated to helping you plan your solo travels with confidence and ease. From tips on finding the best hostels to recommendations for off-the-beaten-path destinations, I provide a wealth of information that will help you make the most of your solo journey. And with a passion for photography and storytelling, I bring each destination to life through vivid imagery and captivating narratives. So if you're ready to embark on an adventure of a lifetime, join me on my journey and let's discover the world together.

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The Boat Galley

making boat life better

How to Use an Ice Box Cooler for Food Storage on a Boat

Published on December 5, 2010 ; last updated on March 20, 2023 by Carolyn Shearlock

If you know how to use an ice box or cooler for food storage, and a few tricks for making your ice last longer, you can have great meals when you are boating or camping.

Dave and I have done many extended trips where we only had a cooler for storing food. Four times, we’ve gone without a refrigerator for two months or more. And I’ve lost track of how many shorter trips. We eat well on these trips, not just a bunch of dehydrated meals.  Here’s how I use a cold box for food storage.

If you don’t have a refrigerator, using an ice box — a built-in box to keep food on ice — or a cooler set up specifically for food storage instead of drinks gives you a lot more options for food storage. The question is how to do it so the food doesn’t end up soggy from the melting ice.

How to Set Up an Ice Box Cooler for Food

In short, rather than placing food directly on the ice in the cooler — which will melt and you’ll end up with your food sitting in water — it’s far better to get some racks or grates and put your food in bins on the racks.

Before heading to the store, measure the length and width of your icebox or cooler.  If it’s not a rectangle, sketch the space and write down the measurements.

Depending on the size space and your “handy-ness” you can either use several plastic-covered wire “organizers” as shown in the picture, or you can cut wire shelves or grates to size and mount 1×1 strips for the shelves to rest on (you need to be able to easily remove the shelves to replace ice and clean the box, so don’t mount them permanently).

If you use racks like I did, they don’t have to 100% fill the inside of the ice box.  They just have to sufficiently fill the space to form a solid base for the bins.  Two things are important, however:

• you want all the tops to be level, without protrusions that will interfere with your bins, and
• you want the racks 5″ to 6″ off the bottom of the ice box so that sufficient ice can fit under them

If you want a heavier-duty shelf, wire closet shelves are available in most home improvement stores and they can be cut to whatever size you need.  They are much sturdier if you’re trying to span a larger distance.

Put Your Food in Bins on the Shelves

Then get some bins to hold your food.  I like the Sterilite bins shown, with solid bottoms (less bruising of produce than having holes in the bottom) and ventilated sides (to allow the cold air to circulate).  I got both the racks and bins in the housewares/storage department in Wal-mart.

Think about what you’ll want to store in the bins and size them accordingly — for example, if you like celery, you’ll need a bin that’s big enough for it!

Depending on the depth of your ice box cooler, you can also get stacking bins and have a double layer.  Put the things that need to stay the coldest on the bottom.  Not only is it nearest the ice, but hot air rises, so it’s always warmest at the top.

How to Make Ice Last Longer

Block ice will last far longer than cubes, although cubes will chill things faster.  For food storage, get block ice when you can — block ice will last 5 to 7 days in a well-insulated ice box even in 90-plus-degree weather (and longer if it’s cooler).  Cube ice will only last one to two days. If you freeze the blocks yourself, remove them from any plastic containers (like milk jugs) before putting them in the cooler — the plastic insulates the ice and less cold gets to your food ( see my tips for making block ice ).

Put the ice under the racks and the food in the bins on the racks.  If the ice box has a drain, leave it closed except when you need to drain water out. It’s not a bad thing to have some water around the ice as it’s colder than the air.  Leaving the drain open will just let hot air into the ice box.

Using Your Ice Box Cooler for Food

To preserve your ice and food, it’s best to put drinks in a separate cooler. You’re likely to want drinks more often than food, and having them separate means that you won’t be letting cold out and heat into the food cooler every time you get a drink.  And if the ice melts on the drinks because of opening that cooler more often, you can still drink the drinks whereas food will spoil if the ice melts faster than you expect.

I use the cooler primarily for produce and dairy items. You can also store pre-frozen commercially vacuum-sealed meats for a few days. What looks to be a bottle of ketchup in the photo above actually holds milk — it’s a much better size to fit in the cooler than the box it came in ( read more about boxed milk )!

Although I used this system when camping, our meals certainly didn’t seem like we were “camping out.”

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Reader Interactions

February 17, 2011 at 4:06 pm

Do you have any recommendations for an ice box (brand and/or model) under $50 that would work effectively this way?

Carolyn Shearlock says

April 29, 2011 at 9:52 am

Absolutely — see The Best Cooler for Food Storage !

April 24, 2011 at 1:15 am

Our first sailboat only had and icebox – no refrigeration. I purchased a wire coated shelf like you showed in the article. However, we froze water at home in plastic milk jugs. Since cold air sinks, I placed the frozen jugs on the shelves and the items that had to be kept the coldest (meats I had frozen at home)went under the shelves. Produce/fruits went in front of the shelves. On our first week long cruise, we only had to get one additional block of ice. The key was to FILL the icebox. I covered the entire contents of the icebox with spare beach towels to fill the box. This also helped reduce the amount of coolness lost when the box was opened to retrieve something. By freezing water in the gallon jugs, we had the benefit of “good” cold water for making coffee/drinks as the ice melted. Since our icebox was unfortunately right next to the engine compartment and I didn’t want to reduce the storage space by using foam, I lined the wall of the box next to the engine compartment with a spare blanket (heavier than the towels)to help keep the extra heat out. I would have preferred to use a “space blanket” but was unable to find the one I had or find a new one in our local stores. Admittedly, this setup would be a pain for a cruise of any length, but for a week or two, it worked for us. Some marinas will also allow you to put a couple of water jugs into their icebox overnight to refreeze them!

Thanks for all the good info on this site! We are taking our first “long” cruise this winter…I’ve gotten so much help here already!

April 24, 2011 at 7:46 am

Our refrigerator was also right next to the engine compartment . . . makes you wonder who comes up with these design ideas, doesn’t it?

Thanks for sharing your tips and have a wonderful trip!

March 20, 2020 at 4:07 am

You could use a matalic bubble insulation next to the engine compartment. We have an electric ice chest in a compartment down below on our motor home. We made a cover for it, because when the weather is hot it helps keep things frozen. We use it as a freezer instead of a cooler. Pam

Ice Cooler says

August 16, 2011 at 3:26 am

One other important thing for getting long use from the cooler is to make sure the orginal things that are placed into the cooler are already cooled. Great post. Thanks for sharing!

Janarthanan, K B. says

April 8, 2012 at 1:11 am

Please suggest me for purchase of Cool Box (below 20 lts capacity) for storing Ice.(Cooling should last for 7days)

April 8, 2012 at 7:00 am

I’m not sure if any cooler that small will hold ice for 7 days. The really well insulated coolers just don’t come that small — the smallest I find (Yeti) is 35 quarts (liters).

Bob Vivian says

September 2, 2014 at 12:11 am

I believe he is referring to the 20L Nomad cool box cooler from the UK.

September 16, 2020 at 7:55 pm

check out engel coolers

Sage Seeley says

July 17, 2012 at 9:06 am

Hi! I am a live aboard in the Fl. Keys. I have a Norcold top loading fridge some say it is a icebox? According to specs on my boat it has 3″ of insulation. The compressor is in a sail locker & fridge is next to engine. I find it runs none stop. Tried some insulation from Home Depot around the inside of box. This on my trip over to Abaco collapsed. I like the idea of using wire racks to support the items. I have temporarily placed two mixing bowls in the bottom of fridge , there is a v shaped deep void in the bottom of fridge that is hard to fill in. I then place a board over it and have my sterlite containers balanced on top. When I return home I want to devise something more permanent. My thoughts I want to run by you are: Fill in the void with insulation covered by space blanket. Find racks to sit on top of that. Then I can place the bins on racks and perhaps add another layer of space blanket. I made a vent in my locker to provide more ventalation for compressor. But was thinking about a computer fan in the locker as well? My goal is to restore my fridge, have the compressor run less (as it is a big drain on my batteries) & avoid ice if possible. Your thoughts and suggestions would be greatly appreciated ! Thanks Sage

July 17, 2012 at 9:40 am

You have a refrigerator, not an icebox (an icebox has no compressor — it’s basically a built-in cooler).

Unfortunately, in the summer in the Keys, it IS likely to run all or almost all the time. There are a couple of articles here on the boat galley that tell ways to make a refrigerator more efficient:

Improving Refrigerator Efficiency

Adding Extra Insulation to Your Boat Refrigerator

The foam insulation sheets will help — use a little silicone caulk to hold them in place and they shouldn’t fall down. Your idea about a computer fan in the compressor locker will help, too — I know of one person that added two — one oriented to suck cool (well, relatively cool) air in and one to exhaust hot air. If it was working well in the winter, it’s probably insulation. If it’s running all the time in winter, too, you may want to have a marine refrigeration tech check it out to make sure it doesn’t need recharging (basically like your car air conditioner) — and if it needs recharging, that’s a sign that there may be a leak.

If you decide that it just has to be replaced, a lot of readers are extremely happy with the Engel units — they say they run far less and take less power when they do. We did not have one but I’ve literally never heard anyone say anything bad about them. They’re not cheap, but they are less expensive than a lot of other alternatives and much easier to install.

August 31, 2012 at 7:48 am

If it is available, we supplement our ice with dry ice. Leave the dry ice in a plastic bag, lay it in the bottom of the box, then lay the ‘wet’ ice on top of that. The ‘dry ice’ is amazing at keeping the ice alive for a little longer, as in a couple of days longer.

Sherry says

July 25, 2021 at 5:39 pm

Yep. We do that too. Lay the dry ice then bags of ice on top (about 5 bags, two opened and dumped and the others left in the bag). Then all our food in tubs in the chest. It was in triple digits and we had ice for about 7 days. It was awesome.

Sue peck says

August 31, 2012 at 9:33 am

We have a very large icebox on our sailboat and I find the use of the wire shelves very helpful. My hubby also mounted some shelves on the back wall to hold bottles and condiments that need to be kept cold. One idea I used on our last trip out that worked well for a week supply of meat was usunf a small cooler. In the week before we left i froze 4 separate meats in ziplock bags and then foe them one at a time in the cooler with ‘layers’ of ice in between. One inch of ice in the bottom of the cooler first then the steaks with a bunch of ice cubes so they wouldn’t float….freeze that layer and then the pork tenderloin etc. I had the chicken at the top. The whole cooler then can be put down below the water line or in the ice box if you have room. I had to chip the pork out of the ice on night number 5 and the steaks were perfect on night number 7!

October 23, 2012 at 9:26 pm

I have also used this method and find the same results. Greg and I have been cruising the Sea of Cortes since late 2006 and find a cooler works great. Since we are out away from land for weeks at a time we have carried a small portable ice maker with us since early 2007. It take less power to run the inverter while we are motoring (which on a sail boat seems to happen at least an hour a day, usually more) then running our refrigeration. When in port we buy ice when necessary.

I also use the racks and baskets which helps to reduce the time the cooler is open. Just grab the meat basket, cheese basket etc.

September 18, 2012 at 11:07 pm

thanks so much for the information. I am an OTR “Over The Road” Long Haul truck driver and have been wasting so much money on soaked food. The ice would always melt and spoil all the food. I have tried everything and thought i was doomed to eat at these truck stops and gain 200 LBS, but you have saved me from that. So simple to and yet very creative. Thanks again.

Martin Henry on Facebook says

April 24, 2013 at 6:13 pm

Great article – we have done this for a number of years. Love cucumbers, celery, carrots and peppers chilled and they last quite awhile.

Melanie says

August 9, 2013 at 10:52 am

I have been so frustrated using coolers over the years. I have thought someone in the cooler making industry would have come up with a solution like what you have done. I have thought for years that they needed some kind of removable shelves. I never tried making my own. The one thing I did do on our last camping trip that helped our ice last longer was to pack our two coolers by putting all of the items we would use on the first day in one cooler including drinks and everything for the last 2 days in the second cooler. On the second day I repositioned some things back into the first cooler that was nearly empty of food items but still had some ice. I always try to make my own ice in large containers so it melts slower too.

Peter E. says

October 30, 2013 at 9:39 pm

I have been studying this conundrum for a while, and I did actually come up with the same idea as you about the racks, only I hadn’t yet figured out how to keep them from rusting. The plastic coated organisers solves this problem, as long as you don’t start “cutting to fit”, which would bring up potential rust problems. My company has just started manufacturing and selling plastic trays to address this problem (for those that are less skillful at wire bending 😉 I design plastic trays to sit on the ledges formed on the inside walls of many coolers, such as the one pictured in your example. Of course if your cooler doesn’t have these ledges, I can’t make a tray for it, and you’re back to the rack idea. I’m not a boat cruiser, rather I do lots of camping and long road trips in a sports car, so my focus for my first product was on that situation. My cooler of choice for those activities is the Coleman 28 quart with the bail handle, because it’s just the right size for use by one or two persons, where space is limited, like in a small car. The bail handle allows you to carry it with one hand, leaving the other hand free to open doors or carry other things. It also makes it much easier on your back to put it in/out of the back seat, trunk or hatch of the car. My future designs for larger coolers will look much like your Sterilite bins pictured, except they will hang above, rather than sit above, the ice and water below. If you want to see pictures of this tray, just follow this link to my Ebay listing:

http://www.ebay.ca/itm/Tray-for-28-Quart-Coleman-Cooler-Shelf-Ice-Chest-6277-6278-camping-fishing-/141097182583?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_2&hash=item20da0c2577

or go to Ebay and do a search for item #141097182583

I would be happy to hear your opinion if you care to take a look.

Great Lakes Scuttlebutt Magazine says

January 19, 2014 at 4:04 pm

We took down 40 pounds of food to the BVI last year – dry ice and a cooler on wheels! Worked perfect!!

Gary Green says

January 19, 2014 at 6:07 pm

Lise, this is a good article for us.

stephen says

November 16, 2014 at 11:06 am

Why do people always put ice on the bottom, it should go on the top remember cold air sinks

November 16, 2014 at 12:26 pm

Yes, but if you put the food on the bottom, it will end up sitting in water from the melting ice.

May 1, 2015 at 9:57 am

In addition to racks, I use frozen gallon or half-gallon water jugs, then we have water when the ice is gone and have to replace with block ice. Also, I further insulate the TOP of the cooler with folded newspaper (ten or so sheets) that fit to the edge, overlapped if necessary. What a DIFFERENCE this has made! Our cooler is a large thermos cooler, and now I get at least an additional two-three days from the ice. Food is always re-packaged in freezer Ziplocs…no worry about water. Fruit/berries: rinse in bowl with 1 or 2 tablespoons of vinegar, dried thoroughly, and stored in hard plastic containers. The tablespoon of vinegar in the water rinse extends the fruit ‘life’ since it keeps mold from forming

June 29, 2015 at 6:44 pm

Hi I’m glad I found your article. I’ve been having this idea for a bake sale to keep my baked goods cool and I wasn’t sure if it was a crazy idea. Do you think that cans of frozen soda or beer could replace the ice? I’ve got a ton of expired beer (like reaaally 2012 expired) and was thinking to use that instead of ice! Doable?

June 29, 2015 at 8:36 pm

Frozen beer or soda can explode . . . so it might work or might not.

Jenn Hebert says

July 7, 2015 at 1:18 am

Hello! I just wanted to thank you for the tips – I don’t know why I never thought of using racks in my cooler! I’m a historical reenactor, and we’re often “camping” for 1-2 weeks at a time.

Susan Condon Dawson says

July 24, 2015 at 1:16 pm

Great info for my upcoming camping trip too!!!

Rodney Lewis says

July 24, 2015 at 1:51 pm

Nice. I’m gonna have to get some class and stop using the empty beer cans for that.

Desiree Golen says

July 24, 2015 at 2:27 pm

This is awesome! We lived out of a cooler for about a year. Wish I had read this then!! Next time I’ll be prepared!

Lucy Untiet says

July 24, 2015 at 2:29 pm

Instead of loose ice we use frozen water bottles

The Boat Galley says

July 24, 2015 at 2:43 pm

That works if you’re leaving from home!

July 25, 2015 at 4:52 pm

That’s all we get to do for now. Someday, we’ll get to go on s big trip. For now it’s long weekends.

Kelly Lerigny says

July 24, 2015 at 10:42 pm

Tupperware makes super vented veggie keeper boxes that are perfect for coolers. Vegetables keep ages longer than other storage methods and you can stack them. We have also made a very inexpensive insulating blanket with a hardware store purchase of reflective thin insulation which comes in rolls. We had used it to line the hull in the V-berth under our bed to eliminate the condensation and cold and had some left over. Just loaded up our cooler box for a two week cruise in San Juan Islands, WA. Trying a chunk of dry ice for the first time on top of my lasagne. Have to see how it goes:).

Charlotte Taylor says

February 20, 2016 at 1:41 pm

Thank you for this article. Very useful!!!

Rick Garvin says

February 20, 2016 at 4:10 pm

I love your articles. I read and reread them every day.

February 20, 2016 at 7:40 pm

Glad to hear that! Comments like that make my day!

April 29, 2016 at 10:41 pm

How much does the food in an Ice Box typically weigh?

April 30, 2016 at 7:59 am

That totally depends on the size of the ice box! I know that with a 40 quart cooler, the food/ice/cooler is about 30 pounds — I can lift it by myself, but it’s awkward and easier with two people.

Andrés Blanco says

July 16, 2016 at 12:57 am

Hi great article. Have you ever tried placing an ice mat on top of those bins? or a mylar blanket? Cheers from Costa Rica!

July 16, 2016 at 9:00 am

I’ve put a blanket over the whole cooler; I’m sure it would also help to put one inside over the bins.

May 29, 2020 at 4:50 pm

I’ve had good luck on a boat by putting wet towels over coolers. Keep the towels wet and the evaporative cooling does the trick, even keeps produce cool enough for a day or two. Similar in concept to the zeek I think it’s called. I also use the silver bubble wrap but inside the cooler

Rebecca says

August 2, 2016 at 8:33 am

We love to go camping but never have enough room in the fridge! Also like going on day trip picnics while on the Blueridge Parkway and need a cold cooler that will last more than a few hours. I love the idea of the frozen water jugs. I freeze a water bottle to take to work with me and drink the melted water during the day. Don’t know why I didn’t think of the jugs in the same way for camping! Thanks ?

Linda Corbin says

August 2, 2016 at 10:23 pm

Heat rises, cold travels down…ice should be on the top for best cooling. Buy dry ice, lasts long time for food and regular ice for drinks cooler. Drinks in water as ice melts will be nice and cold.

August 3, 2016 at 12:17 pm

Dry ice can be impossible to get in many places. Also, produce does better on top of ice — you don’t want to freeze it. We use a separate cooler for drinks so that we are not in and out of the food cooler so many times a day.

Susan Kam says

May 18, 2017 at 4:52 pm

Anita, will have to get some containers for the summer trip and something to raise up the food.

Christie says

July 20, 2017 at 10:00 am

So helpful for an upcoming road trip–thank you!

M Stiles says

July 25, 2017 at 4:47 pm

I’m confused as to why you would use plastic milk jugs and not cardboard? The cardboard is already a perfect rectangle. The plastic jugs seem like a space nightmare. When you said milk jugs I just asssumed cardboard until I read plastic milk jug.

July 25, 2017 at 6:26 pm

Closed top — no spillage.

Jeannette DeFriest says

August 29, 2017 at 8:46 am

Now I have a 10L PVC drybag I use only for cubed ice. Those 7 – 10 lb bags of ice melt so fast and flood the bottom of the cooler. By slipping the plastic ice bag into the drybag I can roll the top closed and lay it on top of all the contents. I still get some water from condensation on the bag but nothing like a flood.

March 1, 2018 at 1:37 am

Thank you for sharing these tips. Great ideas to help make our yearly camping trip easier

June 22, 2018 at 4:13 pm

I got a roll of the silver, bubble insulation from the hardware store and made a removable cover for my cooler! I live and camp in AZ, and have been able to keep ice in it for several days. It wraps around the entire cooler, with slits wear the handles are, and an easy, lift off top to access the goodies inside!

Monica says

October 15, 2018 at 11:06 am

Love all the comments and great article. I freeze a large rectangular plastic container and keep it in the bottom of my cooler, sealed. I place the items that need the most refrigeration closest and least refrigeration furthest from the frozen container. No water leaks out of the container as it thaws. Once I have to replace the thawed solid ice in my container I fill it with ice cubes, seal it and again place it in the bottom. The solid block of ice and subsequent ice cubes last a very long time and nothing gets wet. I love the idea of using baskets for various items to reduce the amount of time the cooler is open. Thanks for your excellent newsletter.

Jennifer Biron says

July 14, 2020 at 4:16 pm

I am so glad this article is still available. Even though I have a camp fridge and a trailer fridge there is still not enough room for all of my vegetables and fruit and I am tired or ruining them in the cooler because of melting ice. I just heard about the carton ice and now have some in my freezer but I wondered about how cold it would be while still in the carton, now I know! Thank you so much for taking the time to write this.

Sara M says

February 13, 2021 at 8:34 pm

Just bought a 1986 Catalina 34’ Sloop in beautiful condition, but only an ice box. Since that will probably meet our needs, I’d like to fabricate a custom “ice block form” to use at home to freeze a block that fits the bottom 6” of of the box. Do you have any direction on how I might make a mold the exact shape of the ice box? I’m thinking: line it with a plastic garbage bag, mush modeling clay alomg the edges, let harden, and then lift gently.

February 14, 2021 at 6:07 am

Your idea to line with a trash bag is good, but I think I’d use a can of spray foam to fill it, so you get a solid block. I think that using clay just around the edges won’t keep the shape as you remove it.

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• Food & Drink

Best cool box 2024: The top ice boxes and camping coolers from £33

• Jane Hoskyn
• Adrienne Wyper

Keep cool and carry on camping. Enjoy fresh food and cold drinks anywhere, with our favourite ice boxes and electric coolers

Fridges are never there when you need them most. When you’ve spent all day rambling, for example, and you’re finally back at your tent, feeling ravenous (but not quite ravenous enough to put up with sweaty cheese). Or you’ve been driving for six hours. Or maybe you’re having a party, when one fridge is never enough.

The best cool boxes will keep your food edible and your drinks ice-cold in all these situations, but one box doesn’t fit all needs. We’ve tried to find good all-rounders, but with coolers you have to choose between competing attributes. Large or easy to carry? Collapsible or electric?

In this article, we’ll take the stress out of choosing the right cooler for you. First, we’ll run through the different factors to consider, and then we’ll reveal the best cool boxes on the market today.

Best cool box: At a glance

• Best budget cool box for picnics:  Campos 42l Cool Box | £40
• Best small electric cool box:  Halfords 12V In-Car Electric Cool Box 8l | £45
• Best collapsible cool box for holidays:  Quechua Fresh Compact Ice Box 36l | £50
• Best electric cool box:  Outwell Ecocool Slate Grey Cool Box 24l | £100

How to choose the best cool box for you

Why spend money on a cool box when i can just chuck ice packs in with my lunch.

Ice packs alone won’t keep food cold – and anyway, they’d melt all over your bag. They only really work in a container designed to insulate, keeping the cold air in and warm air out.

And remember, chilled food isn’t just about taste and comfort. It’s essential for food safety. Food that’s usually kept in the fridge can easily give you an upset stomach if it’s spent the morning stewing in your backpack.

READ NEXT:  The best portable BBQs you can buy right now

What features should I look for?

Portability: Essential if you’re off to a picnic or festival. Large cool boxes can be surprisingly portable if they have wheels and well-designed handles. A non-wheeled cool box should have a capacity of around 30 litres or lower if you want it to be easy to lug about.

Capacity: If you’re only planning to use your cool box for fridge overflow in the kitchen, cellar or garden, you can afford to invest in a 50-litre-plus whopper. But bear in mind that cool boxes, like fridges, work best when they’re full. A 47-litre cool box is big enough for well over 80 regular cans of drink.

Shape: Do you want to fit wine bottles in your cool box? Then make sure it’s long enough. Also look for dividers that keep various types of food, drinks and ice separate from one another. Some cool boxes have dividers that double as removable water bottles, so you can use them as built-in ice packs.

Insulation: Polyurethane foam is the most commonly used material for cool boxes because it’s very light, affordable and offers superb insulation. But even then you’ll need to throw in a few ice packs. If you’re a serial camper or road traveller, you may want to invest in the self-cooling power of an electric cool box.

Is an electric cool box always better than non-electric?

As ever, the answer is “it depends”…

Pros of electric:

• Electric coolers are miniature fridges. They actively cool your food rather than simply maintaining low temperature, and they keep food chilled for many days.
• Mains-powered boxes are more powerful, but 12V in-car electric coolers are ideal for keeping in your motor for road trips and commutes.
• Most do insulate when unplugged, provided you load them with ice packs.

Cons of electric:

• Electric coolers can make your food too cold. You don’t want frosty sarnies.
• They’re heavier litre for litre than non-electric boxes.
• They’re small. You will struggle to find a cost-effective electric cooler much larger than 24 litres.

READ NEXT:  The best lunch boxes you can buy

The best cool boxes you can buy in 2024

1. campos 42l cool box: best budget cool box for picnics.

If you want a cooler that’s big enough for picnics and camping trips then look no further than this stylish cool box from Campos.

Its 42-litre capacity is no slouch – you can fit around fifty 330ml cans or five 1.5l bottles in there, meaning you can load it up and still have room for ice packs. The locking seal is excellent, and with the help of ice it keeps the contents fridge-cold for two days or more. If you’re planning a smaller trip and the 42-litre capacity is a little much, you can also pick up a 29-litre version .

Key specs – Type: Insulated box; Capacity:  42 litres; Material: Polypropylene, polyurethane; Weight (empty): 3.8kg; Size (WDH): 55 x 35 x 40cm

Campos 24l Cool Box

2. halfords 12v in-car electric coolbox 8l: best small electric cool box.

We love the idea of this box, but in practice we found it didn’t chill its contents to the promised 18°C below ambient temperature. However it is well-insulated, so it’ll keep food cold anyway if you include a couple of ice packs and use the charger for a boost. The more powerful mains adapter costs a hefty £25.

Key specs – Type: Electric cooler (12V in-car); Capacity: 8l; Material: Polypropylene, polyurethane; Weight: 2.5kg; Size: 44 x 30 x 20cm

Check price at Halfords

3. Quechua Fresh Compact Ice Box 36l: Best collapsible cool box for holidays

The Quecha’s insulation skills are amazing for what’s effectively a cool bag, thanks to the polyurethane lining. With ice packs, it keeps food at fridge temperature for three days, and even without ice packs our food was fresh for a full summer’s day.

The main drawback is that it’s not waterproof, unlike the sturdier polypropylene boxes in our lineup. Add a waterproof lining if you’re camping in the soggy outdoors.

Key specs – Type:  Insulated bag;  Capacity: 35l; Material: Polyester, polyurethane;  Weight (empty):  1.5kg; Size (inflated):  43 x 42 x 33cm

Check price at Decathlon

4. Outwell Ecocool Slate Grey Cool Box 24l: Best electric cool box

If anything, we found the Outwell Ecocool too cold, at least on its Max setting. The lower Eco setting is less like a blast chiller, and also less noisy. It kept food cool when unplugged, too, although you’ll need ice packs for that. There’s also a warming setting, making this a great device to have in the garden for parties.

Key specs – Type: Electric cold/hot box; Capacity: 24l; Material: Polypropylene, high-density polyfoam; Weight (empty): 4.6kg; Size: 42.5 x 42.5 x 30.5cm

Outwell Ecocool Grey Cool Box 24l

5. icey-tek premium cube cool box 25l: best heavy-duty cool box for camping and festivals.

We also like that it has no hidden corners and two drainage bungs, meaning it’s easy to wash out after use. It even doubles as an extra seat and you can buy custom seat cushions to complete the look.

As you would expect from such a sturdy, quality box, it comes with a five-year warranty. Perfect for camping, festivals, outdoor entertaining or just as an overflow fridge for busy times in the kitchen. If you’re going out in the wilds with a larger group, the similarly sturdy  55l version  might be worth plumping for instead.  

Key specs – Type: Insulated box; Capacity: 25l; Material: Pressure-injected polyurethane insulation, rubber seal; Weight (empty): 8kg; Size: 46 x 42.5 x 37.5cm

Icey-Tek 25 Litre Cube Cool Box - Jet Black

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Best cool boxes for camping and keeping food and drink cool

In this article

The best electric cool boxes

The best cool boxes, how we test cool boxes, how does a cool box work, watch: how to make clear ice using your cool box, is a cool box better than a cool bag.

The best cool box could make all the difference to your next camping or beach trip.

We've tested electric cool boxes and passive ones on everything from insulation to durability and portability.

Cooler boxes from top brands such as Thermos, Igloo, Coleman and others have been put through their paces.

Only logged-in Which? members can view the electric cool box test results below.

Join Which? now to get instant access to our test scores and Best Buy recommendations below.

Date tested: May 2023. Capacity: measured with 330ml soft drink cans. We are not able to show every retailer and cheaper prices may be available. Running costs based on electrical unit price of 22.36p/kWh

The electric cool boxes we tested

All the electric cool boxes we tested are listed in alphabetical order below.

Only logged-in Which? members can view the best electric cool boxes from our tests.

Join Which? to get instant access to our test results and Best Buy recommendation below.

Halfords 24L 12V Electric Cool Box

Pros  Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal 

Cons  Log in or join Which? to instantly reveal

Most recently tested  May 2023

Capacity  24 litres or 30 x 330ml cans

Weight  4.5kg

Outer dimensions (HxWxD) 43 x 43 x 31cm

Inner dimensions (HxWxD) 30 x 29 x 22cm

Need to know  Can accommodate 2 litre bottles, cubby hole to store charger; 12V charger; running cost per hour on maximum setting: 1.3p; one-year warranty; also available in 8, 14 and 40-litre sizes

Hi-Gear 28L 240V electric Cooler

Capacity  28 litres or 50 x 330ml cans

Weight  5.5kg

Outer dimensions (HxWxD) 46 x 43 x 31cm

Inner dimensions (HxWxD) 33 x 35 x 25cm

Need to know  Comes with a spare fuse; 12V charger and 240V mains plug; running cost per hour on maximum setting: 1.3p, no manufacturer warranty information advertised

Koolatron P75 12V electric Cool Box

Capacity  34 litres or 51 x 330ml cans

Weight  6.1kg

Outer dimensions (HxWxD) 41 x 53 x 41cm

Inner dimensions (HxWxD) 30.5 x 40 x 30.5cm

Need to know  Includes shelf to use chest on its side like a mini fridge; 12V charger; running cost per hour on maximum setting: 1.3p; one-year warranty; also available in 9, 17,  24, 27, 31, 42 and 49-litre sizes

Outwell EcoCool Lite 24L electric Cooler Box

Capacity  24 litres or 29 x 330ml cans

Weight  4.3kg

Outer dimensions (HxWxD) 41 x 43 x 27cm

Inner dimensions (HxWxD) 32 x 33 x 21cm

Need to know Comes with inside divider; 12V charger and UK mains plug; running cost per hour on maximum setting: 1.2p; two-year warranty; other colours available, 12V-only model also available

See our pick of the best food and drink to pack for your picnic

Only logged-in Which? members can view the cool box test results below. See further down the page for our electric cool box test results.

Date tested: June 2021 and May 2023. Page last checked: May 2024. Capacity: measured with 330ml soft drink cans. We are not able to show every retailer and cheaper prices may be available.

The cool boxes we tested

All the cool boxes we tested are listed in alphabetical order below.

Only logged-in Which? members can view the best cool boxes from our tests. 

Coleman 30QT Performance Cooler

Most recently tested June 2021

Capacity 28 litres or 49 x 330ml cans

Weight 3.0kg

Outer dimensions (HxWxD) 39 x 42 x 25cm 

Inner dimensions (HxWxD) 33.5 x 39 x 25.5cm

Need to know  Two cup holders on top of the lid; two-year warranty; also available in 4.7, 15, 26 and 56-litre sizes

DeWalt Toughsystem DS404 Cooler

Most recently tested May 2023

Capacity 25.5 litres or 38 x 330ml cans

Weight  8.1kg

Outer dimensions (HxWxD) 40.5 x 54 x 35cm

Inner dimensions (HxWxD) 27 x 41 x 23cm 

Need to know  Two cup holders on top of the lid; IP65-rated; compatible with the DeWalt Toughsystem trolley at CPC , Amazon , Screwfix (as part of three-piece set) for typically £150; one-year guarantee

Igloo BMX 25 Heavy Duty 23L Cool Box

Available from Igloo (£129.95)

Capacity 23 litres or 39 x 330ml cans

Outer dimensions (HxWxD) 40 x 50 x 31cm

Inner dimensions (HxWxD) 30 x 38 x 21cm 

Need to know  Rubber pads to prevent sliding, fish-measuring ruler moulded into the lid; one-year warranty; also available in 22, 49 and 68-litre sizes, other colours available

Koolatron Ultra Kool Ice Chest

Capacity  25 litres or 36 x 330ml cans

Weight  3kg

Outer dimensions (HxWxD) 42 x 37 x 30cm

Inner dimensions (HxWxD) 34 x 31.5 x 21.5cm

Need to know Three cup holders on the lid; one-year warranty

Quechua Rigid Camping or Hiking Cooler Box

Capacity  24 litres or 43 x 330ml cans

Weight:  3.8kg

Outer dimensions (HxWxD) 41 x 41 x 26.5cm

Inner dimensions (HxWxD) 32 x 38 x 24.5cm

Need to know  Four cup holders on the underside of the lid and a removable insert; two-year warranty; also available in 32-litre size

Thermos Cool Box

Capacity  28 litres or 45 x 330ml cans

Weight  2.4kg

Outer dimensions (HxWxD) 40 x 42 x 27cm

Inner dimensions (HxWxD) 34.5 x 37.5 x 23.5cm

Need to know  One-year warranty; also available in 32-litre size

Yeti Roadie 24L Cool Box

Capacity  24 litres or 34 x 330ml cans

Weight  5.9kg

Outer dimensions (HxWxD) 44 x 42 x 36cm

Inner dimensions (HxWxD) 33 x 31 x 24cm

Need to know:  Rubber pads to prevent sliding; five-year warranty; also available in 48 and 60-litre sizes; other colours available

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We test passive cool boxes and electric cool boxes from major UK retailers and brands. 

We buy every product, so you can be sure our opinion isn't biased by us receiving freebies.

We regularly revisit the cool boxes on sale to see if there are any new and popular models that need testing, and when we find them, we do.

• We place chilled bottles of water in each passive cool box, along with two ice packs, and measured the temperature increase over the course of the day.
• To replicate getting bits in and out of the bag, we open and close it at regular intervals.
• For electric cool boxes, we also measure how much it cooled in the first hour after turning it on, and only put the chilled bottled water in, no ice packs.
• We fill the bags with water and leave them for an hour to see if they leak. 
• While none of the cool boxes leaked when upright, all but one leaked from the lid if tipped over onto their side, so it's worth making sure your cool box isn't going to fall over easily when being transported.
• We carry each half-filled cool box on an identical route to evaluate and identify any discomfort.
• The best cool boxes have features that improve portability, such as wheels and extendable handles. The worst have uncomfortable handles and are heavy to carry.
• We drop each box multiple times from different angles.
• The best cool boxes were barely scratched when dropped, the worst shattered and broke when dropped.

Find out more about how Which? is not influenced by product manufacturers or retailers and how your support helps us to stay editorially independent .

A cool box keeps food and drink cool by insulating it from the outside environment.

Unlike cool bags, which rely on the material properties of the bag to provide this insulation, there are different types of cool box:

• Passive cool boxes  work just like cool bags. They use the box's material to provide insulation and need ice or ice packs to keep them cool.
• Electric cool boxes  don’t require ice but need to be plugged in to keep cool. A 12V car plug is the most common type of charger, but several come with a UK mains plug or adaptor.  by a UK plug. You can get battery-powered boxes, but they’re less common and far more expensive.
• Compressor cool boxes  These top-of-the range coolers usually start at 40 litres and resemble a mini-fridge. They need plugging in, and hi-tech models are available that can be controlled with apps.
• Absorption cool boxes  Similar in size and design to compressor cool boxes, but you can also power these with gas.

Watch our video below to find out how you can make clear ice for impressive cocktails and drinks using your cool box.

Our tests showed some key differences between these two products that are worth considering before buying:

• Build  Cool bags are easier to store, being made from soft material, but offer less protection than a cool box when in use. When not completely full, some cool bags have a tendency to collapse in on themselves, knocking over the bottles inside.
• Portability Cool boxes tend to be heavier, and the hard shell makes them more uncomfortable to carry than most cool bags. However, some cool boxes have wheels and extendable handles that makes transporting a full box much easier on solid, even surfaces. You can also get backpack-style cool bags that are comfortable to carry even on long walks.
• Size   You'll generally find that cool boxes have larger capacities. You can get cool bags up to 50 litres, but if you need more consider a cool box instead.
• Features  It's common for cool boxes to have a nozzle for draining water out of them. Some even have taps attached for drink decanting – ideal for larger events. Cooler bags generally don't have these but do have side compartments and mesh pockets for organisation.
• Holidaying with a large group, or throwing a big garden party? In this case, a cool box will likely meet your needs better than a cooler bag. 
• If you're into trekking, want something for the odd picnic, or to keep your lunch cool for work  A cooler bag may be the way to go.

If you're thinking of investing in a cool bag, read our reviews of the best cooler bags

More on this

• Best cooler bags 2023
• Best reusable freezer bags
• The 10 best tents 2024 from our tests
• Best fridge freezers for 2024

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The 12 Best Small Coolers of 2024

For top-notch insulation and sleek designs, look to these small coolers.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Courtesy of Amazon

A small cooler is one that’s easy for a single person to carry but still has the capacity to fit up to 24 quarts. Do you need one that’s hard or soft? Zip or flip-lid? Backpack or tote? It’s all about preference and finding a cooler that fits your lifestyle. While a backpack cooler makes sense for hikers, a handheld personal ice-chest might be a better match for a day-long road trip. 

For an overall solid portable cooler that’s suited for almost any excursion, our favorite is the Yeti Hopper Flip 12 Soft Cooler. It’s durable, leakproof, and comes in 13 sleek colors to suit a variety of tastes. You’d be hard-pressed to find a cooler that keeps your provisions cold (or hot) for longer. But since each adventure requires an array of different features within our personal ice chests, we’ve rounded up more of the best small coolers on the market that are tailored to specific needs.

Best Overall

Yeti hopper flip.

It’s designed for rough and tumble use but isn’t too bulky.

It comes in three sizes, so you’ll need to pick the one that’s fitting for your ventures.

The definition of a “cool companion,” the Yeti Hopper Flip 12 Soft Cooler ticks all the boxes we crave in a small ice chest, and does it quite well. After testing this cooler, we love the sturdy, 100-percent leakproof design and light weight for portability. The heavy-duty zipper keeps everything tucked in nicely, while the insulation technology keeps your items exceptionally cold using closed-cell rubber foam. After more than two hours in the hot sun, all of the ice was still intact with minimal melting. The DryHide shell repels UV rays, and the whole cooler is treated to resist mildew, so you’ll have the Yeti Hopper for the long-haul. 

Featuring the coveted attributes and durability of a hard cooler while still being a flexible soft cooler, the Yeti Hopper is the best of both worlds. Although it comes in three sizes (8-liter, 12-liter, and 18-liter), we like the 12-liter for its capacity of up to 13 cans — or perhaps lunch and 6 cans — including ice. This is a small cooler that can pack in a decent amount while managing to also be totable for your endeavors. The wide mouth opening and quick, grabbable top handle make the Hopper very user-friendly as well. Bring it along on a beach day, road trip, or boat cruise — this cooler is up for almost any adventure. 

The Details: 3.1 pounds | 15.8 liters | 14 x 14 x 11 inches

Best Budget

Mountainsmith the sixer cooler bag.

It’s the perfect size for a six-pack of bottles or 12 cans.

If using the full 12-can capacity, there’s little room left for an additional ice pack.

Stylish, affordable, and compact, the Sixer 12L is an easy choice when shopping for a soft cooler. Tall enough to transport bottles as well as cans, this personal-sized ice chest is as portable and comfortable as it gets thanks to an easy-to-grab top handle and a removable shoulder strap. But this small cooler isn’t all about looks; the PE foam insulation and waterproof seams keep that six-pack cold for when you’re ready to refresh. 

Whether you’re going on an impromptu picnic of wine and cheese or need to keep your lunch cool on the job, this handy soft cooler has your back. Keep smaller items organized with the interior mesh pocket and exterior pockets, which are perfect for holding a corkscrew, napkins, keys, or anything else that you don't want to lose. To give you even more peace of mind, Mountainsmith backs this budget cooler with a lifetime warranty.

The Details: 1.1 pounds | 12 liters | 16 x 11 x 5 inches

Best Backpack

Igloo pursuit 24-can backpack.

There are plenty of pockets for keeping dry items protected.

It leaks fairly easily as the ice melts.

With the ability to keep food and drink cool in a comfortable-to-carry pack that’s perfect for hiking and other outdoor endeavors, the Igloo Pursuit Backpack is just what you need. A backpack cooler is an ideal blend in the cooler world that allows you to enjoy a hands-free adventure. The top dry pocket is great for safekeeping utensils and dry snacks, and, as a major bonus, the side pockets are great for bottle storage. Whether you’re hiking, canoeing, or paddleboarding, this small, soft-sided cooler keeps your refreshments secure and your focus on the activity at hand. 

When tested, the bag fit a full 24 cans plus ice, so you can be sure to have a full day of cold food and drinks. The bag also features comfortable straps for longterm carrying, a padded back panel, and a chest strap for extra support.

The Details: 2.09 pounds | 12 ounces | 18.9 x 7.5 x 12.6 inches

Hydro Flask 20L Insulated Tote

The lined interior is easy to clean in case of spills.  

The bag’s insulation is considered lightweight, making the longevity for keeping items cool only around four hours.

We love that the practical Hydro Flask 20L Insulated Tote can be quickly slung over your shoulder to transport food and drink wherever needed. Whether you have to keep things like milk or ice cream cold after getting groceries or need refreshments for your kid’s soccer games, the Hydro Flask is up for the challenge. 

Although it’s not designed for longer day or camping trips, this soft tote is ideal for an afternoon at the beach, transporting dishes to a pot-luck event, or shorter scenic drives. Any dirt or spillage is easily wiped off the coated, waterproof fabric. The durable design means it won’t leak either — a huge perk for the backseat of your car. The Hydro Flask is also collapsable, so when it’s not in use, you can just fold it up and tuck it away in storage. 

The Details: 1.32 pounds | 20 liters | 17 x 14 x 7.3 inches

Igloo Playmate Elite Ultra 16 Qt. Comfort Grip Cooler

The price point is extremely fair given the capabilities of this small cooler.

The hard, boxy design makes it more equipped for casual camping or fishing trips than hiking exploits.

We love the classic, rugged design of the Igloo Playmate Cooler. The 6-liter capacity and latched closure put this cooler at the top of its class. Although hard coolers have a reputation of being bulkier and heavier, they often surpass soft coolers in their temperature-maintaining longevity as well as their durability. This Igloo is the perfect example of that heavy-duty power. The Igloo's swivel lid make it easy to access all of your items without issue and the comfortable handle makes for happy hands, too.

Constructed to withstand the elements inside and out, the Igloo Playmate is a can’t-go-wrong pick. You can choose from three fun and timeless colors, and since adventure coolers are bound to get dirty, we appreciate that the polyurethane exterior can be cleaned easily. 

The Details: 2.2 pounds | 6.6 liters | 11.75 x 8.25 x 12 inches

Hydro Flask Carry Out Soft Cooler

It's the perfect mid-size cooler for a day out.

The lighter colors show dirt faster than other options.

Perfect for a boat day on the lake, river tubing expeditions , or catching waves at the beach, the Hydro Flask Carry Out Soft Cooler is our favorite tote for its versatility and so much more. Pack in plenty of goodies in the soft but durable bag for up to 24 hours of insulation. We love its tough construction, compact size, and impressive ability to keep ice from fully melting even after long beach days. While testing, we were even able to pack this inside checked luggage for easy use on arrival.

Load up to 6 cans or a combination of your favorite cans and snacks through the easy-to-open top and feel confident that whatever is left will still be cold the next morning. You can also carry it using the padded shoulder strap for optimal comfort. The strong zipper closure will keep leaks out and everything secure, no matter what your adventure is for the day. Perfect for day trips, picnics, and other events, this versatile cooler will be your favorite outdoor accessory.

The Details: 1.77 pounds | 12 liters | 9.95 x 14.5 x 12.7 inches

Most Packable

Igloo packable puffer cooler.

Igloo Coolers

So packable that it can fit in your pocket, this small cooler was made with recycled materials.

Since it’s so compact, the insulation doesn’t have as much longevity as other coolers.

The Igloo Packable Puffer Cooler is the definition of compact; it can scrunch up so tiny that it fits in most pockets. Perfect for travel or hike-in camping trips, this tear-resistant cooler fits up to 20 cans and comes with a storage pouch. Made from Repreve polyester and PrimaLoft using recycled materials such as plastic water bottles and post consumer fibers, this is a cooler that Mother Nature can put her stamp of approval on. 

The leakproof liner keeps liquids in the cooler, and if something spills on the interior, it’s easy to clean. A front zip pocket is great for storing additional items like keys and change. Although the melt-time for ice isn’t as long as other coolers, it's effective for transporting foods that need to be kept cold for quick trips. 

The Details: 8.8 ounces | 14.4 liters | 12 x 9 x 5.5 inches

Best Waterproof

Icemule classic soft cooler.

This cooler is perfect for water-based activities.

Designed more like a water bag, the carry straps aren’t the most comfortable.

You can hit the water with icy cold beverages when the IceMule Classic Collapsible Backpack Cooler tags along. Built for activities like stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, and river-tubing, this waterproof cooler is a top pick for outdoor enthusiasts. No need to fret if it ends up in the water either; this cooler will float, even when it’s filled to the brim. 

The classic TriFold DriTop roll-top design is great for keeping the water out and ice in. The IceMule will keep up to 12 cans cold for 24 hours with its PolarLayer insulation, which is known to be thicker than the insulation in most soft-sided coolers. When your adventure is done and the cooler is dry, the handy air valve allows the bag to be compressed and stored with ease until your next adventure. 

The Details: 2.5 pounds | 15 liters | 14 x 7 x 7.5 inches

Best Lunch Cooler

Yeti lunch bag.

It folds down to a compact size when not filled.

There aren’t any extra pockets or pouches on the exterior.

Bagged lunches are back. The Yeti Daytrip Lunch Bag is a soft cooler perfect for keeping a meal or two at an optimal temperature, whether you’re on the job or enjoying a paddle picnic from your canoe . A nifty magnetic closure helps to keep your hot food hot and your cold food cold. The lightweight design makes this personal cooler bag portable and packable, and once you’ve indulged in the contents, it folds up even smaller for storing. The adjustable grid style allows you to change the inside size of the bag by simply altering the hook closure. Choose from a wide array of fun, vibrant colors so your personal cooler matches your lunchtime mood. 

The Details: 1.37 pounds | 3.1 liters | 8.75 x 5.75 x 8.75 inches

Best for Road Trips

Yeti roadie 24 cooler.

The super-thick walls of insulation keep things at their ideal temperature for hours and hours.

here’s no drain plug to empty out melted ice.

We love the upgrades to the already amazing original Yeti Roadie design: the insulating and holding power have received a big boost, and somehow the latest model is also lighter than its predecessor. Built specifically for the needs that a road trip demands, this hard cooler is rugged and roomy, with a height to accommodate most wine or soda bottles. It fits nicely behind the seat, and the quick latch release opening allows you to access your snacks fast — before hanger sets in. No room in the backseat? No problem: the Anchorpoint™ tie down slots can attach this little cooler to a truck bed, trailer, or boat in no time. 

The comfortable handle makes carrying the Roadie cooler an easy feat. Constructed to be tough as nails, it’s designed to withstand the elements and keep up with you and your outdoor endeavors. Whether you’re transporting warm burritos or sandwiches and brews, your items will be kept as close to their original temperature as possible in the Yeti Roadie.

The Details: 12.8 pounds | 24 liter | 17 x 16 x 14 inches

Best Fanny Pack

Igloo fanny pack cooler.

It features a fun, retro style while keeping items cool.

It only holds up to three cans.

The '90s are back with this super fun and functional fanny pack. Take Igloo cooler quality and add it to this bright technicolor design, and you're bound to have a great day whether you're heading to the beach or your local park. This fanny pack has an adjustable waist strap and can carry up to three cans for easy access to your favorite beverage. It also has a front zipper for storing money, keys, or other small items. While this may not be the most insulated bag on our list, it does have room for an added ice pack or loose ice to keep items cool for a few hours of fun.

The Details: 0.28 pounds | 1 liter | 12.6 x 6.2 x 4.8 inches

Most Lightweight

Tourit cooler backpack.

This cooler looks like an every day backpack but will keep your items cold for hours.

During tests, the bag leaked as the ice began to melt.

When you want to travel with cold drinks or snacks without a bulky, plastic cooler, this stylish backpack is a perfect option. Made of durable waterproof fabric on the outside and foam insulation on the inside, this cooler will be your new favorite picnic companion. The backpack features one large compartment than can fit up to 30 cans, plus two mesh water bottle pockets, a zipped pocket on the lid, and a mesh zip pocket on the inside of the bag so you can keep all of your items organized and cold. It also has a bottle opener attached to one of the arm straps for your convenience. There aren't sternum or hip belts, so you may not want to stuff this bag completely full if you're walking long distances, however, when tested, we found the straps to be comfortably padded and totally adjustable.

The Details: 1.1 pounds | 10.6 liters | 16.6 x 12.4 x 3.9 inches

Tips For Buying a Small Cooler

Think carefully about shape and weight.

We love a small cooler for easily toting around food and drink, but you don’t want to go too small when choosing a cooler. The shape and weight of a cooler will determine how much you can carry, so it's important to find a cooler that balances portability with durability and effectiveness. With lighter bags or even backpacks, you may also sacrifice quality insulation.

When selecting a cooler, consider the capacity and what contents you will be keeping at temperature most of the time. Are you looking for something to transport a few groceries for longer distances, or are you interested in keeping a slew of drinks cold while spending an entire day at the beach? Typically, the capacity of a cooler is measured in liters or cans (with a 2-1 ice-to-can ratio), and you should be looking for one that can fit between 5 and 20 liters or approximately 6-20 cans with ice.

It’s better to pay more for quality insulation

Don’t skimp too much on price either. Your cooler will have a much longer ice-retention rating and overall lifespan if you pay more for quality insulation. Look for a cooler that uses closed-cell

foam for inner and outer insulation. A good soft-sided cooler will use polyethylene (PE) foam, while a hard cooler will likely have polyurethane foam, which makes it heftier but stronger in the ice-retention arena. Try to steer clear of coolers with styrofoam insulation, as that’s an indication that they’re designed for short-term use.

If a small cooler is something you use frequently, it makes sense to spend a little more for one that will go the distance and can hack the adventure life you live. The higher-end models usually have handy features like leakproof seams, rugged zippers, and even the ability to float, too. 

Look at the water resistance

Surprisingly enough, not all coolers are completely waterproof. Many coolers, especially those made of nylon or other fabrics, are water-resistant, which means they can be susceptible to water damage and leakage. If you're opting for a water-resistant cooler, we recommend using reusable ice packs instead of actual ice to cut down on potential drips as the ice melts.

When purchasing a small cooler, it’s key to assess what situations you will be using it in most of the time. First, you need to prioritize portability. Since a hard cooler is less portable than a soft cooler , narrowing that aspect down is a good jumping-off point. If you plan on putting your cooler through the gauntlet on outdoor exploits and need something tough to handle the unpredictable environment, then a hard cooler might be the better option. That being said, there are soft coolers that are constructed to handle more rigorous ventures with watertight fabric, heavy-duty zippers, extra tough bottom layers, and supreme insulation.

Some soft coolers are built in the backpack style, making them hands-free and durable, which is perfect for hiking. Because they’re more portable and packable, they also make sense for a day on the golf course or traveling. Boaters might gravitate towards a hard cooler since they tend to be grippy and rugged enough to withstand water and anything else that’s thrown at it on the open seas (or lakes, rivers, etc.).

Both hard and soft coolers have their purpose and place, depending on the situation and use. It’s up to you to choose what fits your lifestyle best.

When packing a cooler, the ideal rule to follow is having a 2:1 ice to content ratio. You’ll need twice as much ice for your food and beverages, but to maximize the space of a small cooler, you can add frozen foods to aid in keeping things cold. When filling your cooler, try to steer clear of air gaps and do your best to layer the ice between items. Ice packs are great for keeping things cold while avoiding pesky water melt, though it’s still best to use a combination of the two methods for optimal cooling.

Yes, you can bring a cooler to Disney World , provided it fits within the measurement limitations and does not contain alcoholic beverages or glass containers. Snacks, sodas, water, and more can be plucked out of a cooler that isn’t bigger than 24 inches long, 15 inches wide, and 18 inches tall. A small soft-sided cooler is your best option for exploring the park while staying hydrated and keeping snacks at hand. It’s also best to pack it with prepped food, as nothing is allowed to be refrigerated or heated up while visiting the park. With a small cooler in tow, you won’t have to worry about meltdowns — both in your group, and your cooler — while waiting in line for your favorite rides.

If your cooler is fitted with insulation or ice packs, remove them before deep cleaning. Rinse away any debris, and then use boiling or hot water with a bit of dish washing soap to soak away any set stains and bacteria. You can scrub any additional grime with a sponge or brush if necessary. Drain the water and rinse if there's any soap residue. Thoroughly dry before replacing cool packs or insulation.

To clean removable cool packs or insulation, follow all manufacturer instructions on dish-washer safety. If your products are not dish-washer safe, hand wash them with dish washing soap and air dry completely before putting back in the cooler.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

An outdoor and road-trip enthusiast, Lauren Breedlove used her personal experience with finding the right portable adventure cooler to curate this list. Taylor Fox is a Travel + Leisure writer who used her product expertise and vast travels to help find the best small coolers for everyone. She also scoured the internet, researching and selecting the best small coolers for any situation, whether it be a day on the trail, a scenic road trip, or a grocery run for ice cream. 

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Tanness 24L Cool Box, Cooler Box, Ice Box | Large Food Insulated Camping Cool Box | Storage Box, Cooler Bag, Cool Bags Large for Picnics and Festivals, Camping Accessories & Travel Accessories

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• 𝟐𝟒𝐋 𝐋𝐀𝐑𝐆𝐄 𝐂𝐀𝐏𝐀𝐂𝐈𝐓𝐘: The cool box has a 24L capacity for food and drinks. The 39 x 25 x 38 cm travel bag is perfect for long road trips, days spent on the campsite, or even sporting events. With a 24-litre capacity, this portable cooler holds soft drink cans and carries most sizes of bottles upright.
• 𝐈𝐍𝐒𝐔𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐃𝐄𝐒𝐈𝐆𝐍: The 24L Cooler Box is designed with insulation material that provides superior thermal retention. The camping cool box has advanced insulation foam that ensures that your snacks and beverages stay cool and fresh for longer periods of time. The large cool box is a perfect choice for an outdoor enthusiast.
• 𝐂𝐀𝐑𝐑𝐘 𝐇𝐀𝐍𝐃𝐋𝐄: The cool bag is equipped with a heavy-duty integrated handle for easy transportation. The handle makes transportation a breeze no matter how much content you put in your cool box. This picnic bag allows for easy carry without worrying about your contents falling out. Our lightweight cooling boxes are an ideal addition to your outdoor activities.
• 𝐒𝐄𝐂𝐔𝐑𝐄 𝐈𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐆𝐑𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐋𝐎𝐂𝐊: The camping cool boxes feature a unique design that integrates a lock system into the handle to ensure that the ice chest is locked in place. The integrated lock makes the ice packs for cool box a must for barbecues and picnics.
• 𝐕𝐄𝐑𝐒𝐀𝐓𝐈𝐋𝐄 𝐔𝐒𝐀𝐆𝐄: This cooler box is not limited to outdoor adventures only. It's also great for everyday use, such as picnics, BBQs, tailgating, road trips, and more. It's a versatile camping cooler that can accompany you wherever you go and provides you with refreshing drinks and snacks. Its versatility makes it a valuable addition to your outdoor gear collection.

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Customers like the size, appearance, value, quality and temperature of the ice chest. For example, they mention it's a good size, ideal for carrying ice cream and cans of beer, and that it does keep food cool. That said some complain about the condition.

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Customers like the quality of the ice box. They mention that it's a good product, excellent quality, and sturdy. Some say it'll keep drinks and food cool all day.

"...Its a cool box and does keep food cool. Good buy ." Read more

" Great box to have , specially for work, good size , drinks and food stays fresh." Read more

"Not used yet. First impressions are that it’s well made and looks good. Plenty of storage space. Lid fits well without any issues." Read more

"...arrived Friday, unboxed & filled Saturday morning and it immediately broke off when I lifted it by the handle." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the size of the ice chest. They mention that it is a good size for carrying ice cream, cans of beer, and has plenty of storage space. Some say that the lid fits well without any issues. Overall, most are happy with the product's size.

" Great sized box ideal for carrying cans of beer and keeping them cool for a long time ." Read more

"It's not quite as big as I expected but absolutely good for storing food , wine , beer, water at BBQs and picnics for two people" Read more

"Great box to have, specially for work, good size , drinks and food stays fresh." Read more

"...First impressions are that it’s well made and looks good. Plenty of storage space . Lid fits well without any issues." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the temperature of the ice chest. They mention that it does keep food cool.

"Great sized box ideal for carrying cans of beer and keeping them cool for a long time ." Read more

"Not a lot you can say about it. Its a cool box and does keep food cool . Good buy." Read more

"...cooler but I got it during my graduation from uni and it kept the food hot for hours so so happy. I recommend" Read more

"Did the job it was purchased for so can't complain. It keeps things cool so yeah all good 👍..." Read more

Customers appreciate the value of the ice chest. They mention it's of excellent quality and good value for money. Some say that the delivery was quick and the price was good.

" Speedy delivery good price " Read more

"...time as advised and the product was of excellent quality and good value for money David Green" Read more

" reasonably priced and ideal for anyone who wants to keep your food and drinks cool." Read more

"Had to defrost my freezer and this purchase was the cheapest and fastest way of doing it." Read more

Customers are satisfied with the appearance of the ice chest. They mention that it's lovely, cool, and does keep food cool.

"Not a lot you can say about it. Its a cool box and does keep food cool. Good buy." Read more

"Not used yet. First impressions are that it’s well made and looks good . Plenty of storage space. Lid fits well without any issues." Read more

" Cool box..." Read more

" It's lovely , I'm happy with it!..." Read more

Customers like the portability of the ice chest. They mention that it's not too bulky, it'll easily carry, and it'd be a good addition to their camping experience.

" Great little box compact and easy to carry , good addition to our camping experience" Read more

" Light , great size and keeps everything cool for hours...." Read more

"Keeps everything cool and is not too bulky ...." Read more

Customers are dissatisfied with the condition of the ice chest. They mention that it has damage to the side of the lid, a crack to the edge of the cover, and scratches. The top handle latch was broken when it arrived.

"...shrink wrapped with plastic but when I opened it there was two deep scratches in the side about 3inchs in length and some kind of dark liquid..." Read more

"Not good quality plastics , and top handle latch was broken when it arrived ,would not recommend ," Read more

"Damage to side of lid , Crack to edge of lid ..." Read more

" Broken as I opened it..." Read more

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How to Pack a Cooler So You Don’t End Up With Soggy, Spoiled Food

Published June 23, 2023

Camping season is here, and for many outdoor enthusiasts, that means shoving as much food as you can into a cooler and hoping for the best.

Packing a camping cooler is something that most folks do maybe once or twice a year, so they’re not well-practiced in it—and too often, as a result, campers end up with soggy or even spoiled fare (or, just as bad, not enough chow to go around).

Whether you’re preparing for a week in the woods or just a cookout in the park, below is an expert-curated, easy-to-follow cooler-packing plan that streamlines the process and keeps your food safe.

Start with a big-enough cooler

In our guide to the best coolers , we recommend a few hard-sided models with a capacity in the 65- to 70-quart range —such as the Coleman 70-Quart Xtreme 5 or the RTIC 65 QT —which is an ideal size to accommodate enough cold and frozen food for most trips.

Coleman 70-Quart Xtreme 5 Marine Hard Ice Chest Cooler

Best for most weeklong adventures.

Better insulated and less expensive than the competition, this cooler keeps ice frozen for a week, and its well-designed drain port makes it easy to clean.

Buying Options

RTIC 65 QT Hard Cooler

Tough as nails, with inches of insulation.

This roto-molded cooler is almost indestructible. It has two drainage ports and replaceable parts, and it kept our ice frozen for 10 days.

Carolyn Shearlock, the boating enthusiast behind the blog The Boat Galley , who spoke to us for our cooler guide , says that she has gotten a lot of mileage out of coolers of that size. “Those are great for most of us who go out for a long weekend to a full week,” she says. “I’ve also done enough food for two people to last 10 to 14 days.”

Chill your cooler and food before you pack

To give your cooler a head start, let it sit overnight in a refrigerator (if it’ll fit) or filled with a few bags of cubed ice, which Shearlock says can chill the interior of the cooler to a lower temperature and more quickly than block ice. By the following day, all of that ice will be melted; be sure to drain it before you start packing your food.

You should likewise pre-chill anything that you plan on packing to get it as cold as possible without ruining anything, says Mary Odell, director of program and safety at the Chesapeake Bay Outward Bound School . (No need to fully freeze foods that you ordinarily store in your fridge.)

Label and package (or repackage) your food ahead of time

Opening your cooler as little as possible—both as you’re packing it and during your trip—will keep things colder for longer. To help everyone identify the items they need quickly, Odell recommends transferring all of your food from its original packaging into something lightweight and sealable before putting it in the cooler. Her Outward Bound teams rely on a combination of zip-top bags, Stashers , Nalgene wide-mouth bottles , and repurposed Talenti containers. Label everything with a Sharpie marker and painter’s tape , which Odell has found leaves less sticky residue than duct tape.

Stasher Reusable Silicone Bag Multi-Pack

Reusable silicone bags.

These multipurpose, durable bags seal securely and can hold everything from snacks to prepped ingredients to leftovers, and they can go from fridge to freezer.

Not only will this process make it easier for you to find stuff inside your cooler, but it will also save space while cutting down on cross-contamination, leaks, and other messes. “If you want to bring hamburgers, and they originally came in a cardboard box, that box is going to get mushy and disgusting anyway,” says Odell.

Line the bottom of the cooler with block ice

Cubed ice may get things colder than block ice, but block ice lasts much longer—which is why both Shearlock and Odell recommend DIY-ing big chunks and putting those in your cooler first.

Shearlock likes using cut-up plastic milk jugs to make blocks that are about 4 to 5 inches high, while Odell usually freezes water in 64-ounce plastic juice bottles and puts the whole container in, since those can then become drinking or cooking water later on in the trip.

Store frozen foods next to ice

Hamburgers, hot dogs, steaks, and other frozen foods that should stay as cold as possible until you cook them are fine to place right atop your block ice, Shearlock says. (She tries to vacuum-seal frozen foods as much as possible for additional protection, but if you can’t, using foil or keeping the food’s original plastic packaging is fine.)

Lay those items on top of the ice or wedge them in between blocks if you have the space to do so.

Anova Precision Vacuum Sealer Pro

The best vacuum sealer.

This vacuum sealer has the suction capability of models costing twice as much. It offers multiple controls, too, so you can adjust how you seal your food.

Keep other foods away from the ice with kitchen shelf risers

Nobody wants to deal with a bruised tomato or head of lettuce floating amidst a pool of slowly melting ice. To avoid such yuckiness, Shearlock places shelf risers in her cooler to form a barrier between the frozen stuff at the bottom and everything else. Her preferred risers measure about 5 inches or a little higher, so they’re just a bit taller than her block ice, and are made of vinyl-coated wire, like these cabinet shelves from The Container Store.

“You’ll probably need two or three of those [shelf risers] to go across the bottom of the cooler,” she adds, “and the most important thing is that they’re all the same height so all the stuff above them sits evenly.”

Organize with baskets or bins (space permitting)

The more organized your cooler, the quicker you and your camping buddies can grab stuff from it. If yours doesn’t already have a basket designed to perch along the lip, Shearlock recommends stacking inexpensive, plastic Sterilite baskets —the kind with solid bottoms and holes on the sides—on top of the shelf risers. Not only are these containers lightweight and available in different sizes, but the holes also allow for cold airflow, while the solid bottoms keep spills or spoiled foods contained.

However, Odell adds that while she also likes to organize her cooler’s contents with baskets, she sometimes goes without them if she finds that she needs more space.

Put the most delicate foods on top with extra padding

More fragile items that needn’t or shouldn’t be frozen—easily bruised fruit and vegetables, condiments, eggs, and the like—go toward the top of your cooler. Shearlock looks for ways to give them extra cushioning without taking up too much space, such as encasing tomatoes in bubble wrapping or slipping a few avocados into a cheap tube sock.

Try to eliminate “dead air”

Pockets of empty space inside a cooler can cause it to warm up faster, Odell says, so look to fill gaps as you’re packing.

Though most beverages don’t need to be chilled (see below), Odell suggests stashing some into open crannies at the end of your packing process to fill in space and to ensure that you have at least a couple of cold refreshments to enjoy at your campsite. Shearlock recommends using cold packs if necessary, as they can squish and contort to plug up more awkwardly shaped spaces.

Dumping cubed ice onto everything to fill in the gaps is another possible option—if you’re going camping for only a night or two. On longer trips, Odell notes, that ice will ultimately turn your cooler’s contents into a dirty, melty mess.

Consider a separate cooler (or none at all) for drinks

“What do you realistically need to keep cold in your cooler? It’s not your drinking water,” says Odell. Not only do beverages take up a lot of real estate, but they also get used up quickly, leaving unwanted pockets of air behind.

On Outward Bound trips, Odell’s young campers each carry their own 1-liter water bottle, and they draw from the aforementioned frozen plastic bottles as the ice inside them melts. She also recommends adding flavor to lukewarm water to make it more enjoyable.

“Students say they don’t like water, especially when it’s warm, but lemonade mix is a delicious trick,” she notes. “MiO [water enhancer] is also a go-to for many of our instructors, because one little bottle goes a super-long way and it doesn’t make a lot of trash.”

Another option is to equip each camper with their own soft-sided backpack cooler , which can be lined with cold packs at the bottom. If you have access to cubed ice at your campsite, it’s fine to dump some into the backpack each day, since drink containers don’t run the risk of mess and cross-contamination the way food does. Unfortunately, we have seen stock and quality issues crop up with our top-pick soft-sided backpack cooler, the Polar Bear Original , and we are planning to test more options soon.

Give your fellow campers a cooler tutorial

If you’re the one who packed the cooler, you’re probably the only person who knows what’s in it and where everything is—which means others will take longer to find what they’re looking for. To solve this problem, Odell suggests giving your campmates a quick orientation as to what foods are in the cooler and the order in which things are packed. (You know how kids love to open the fridge door and stare at what’s inside for minutes on end? Make sure to explain to them why that’s particularly unwise when camping.)

Cover your cooler between uses

Whether you’re in the woods, on the water, or wherever else, “insulation is the key to any cooler,” Shearlock says. Besides keeping yours closed as much as possible, throw a blanket over it—the heavier, the better—when it’s not in use. In a pinch, Odell has used her Therm-a-Rest sleeping pad as extra insulation, as well. And of course, keep the cooler out of direct sunlight as much as possible.

This article was edited by Alexander Aciman and Catherine Kast.

Mentioned above

• After years of research and gallons upon gallons of melted ice, we have picks for hard and soft coolers, plus backpack and high-end roto-molded options. The Best Coolers  
• We’ve been testing vacuum sealers since 2017. Our pick is the Anova Precision Vacuum Sealer Pro. The Best Vacuum Sealer  

Further reading

This Wood Pulp Cooler Is Cooler Than It Looks

by Kit Dillon

If you truly need a disposable cooler, Igloo’s Recool is the best option, but for most scenarios we still recommend a hard or soft cooler.

The Best Wine Coolers and Fridges

by Anna Perling and Winnie Yang

A wine fridge will protect your bottles and improve your drinking experience. We like the Wine Enthusiast Classic 70 Dual Zone and the single-zone Classic 80 .

Swamp Coolers Are a Cheap AC Alternative for Dry Climates. Here’s What to Know Before You Buy.

by Thom Dunn

Here’s our take on the performance of evaporative chillers versus typical air conditioning.

25(ish) Wirecutter Picks to Upgrade Your Backyard

by Wirecutter Staff

Here’s a selection of our favorite gear to help turn your backyard into an outdoor oasis, including our go-to string lights, fire pits, patio gear and more.

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The 8 Best Glass Food Storage Containers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Transform your meal prep with containers that are way more durable and versatile than plastic.

Nina Bahadur is a writer and editor based in NYC who specializes in beauty, kitchen, and organizing content. Highlights: * Writing has appeared in SELF, Cosmopolitan, Glamour, The New York Times, Health, SHAPE, Food52, and more * Former Deputy Editor for HuffPost Women * Former Deputy Culture Editor for SELF.com

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• Our Top Picks

Final Verdict

Our testing process.

• How to Shop
• More to Consider

Take Our Word for It

What is real simple selects.

Real Simple / Taysha Murtaugh

If you’re tired of rifling through an overflowing drawer of dingy plastic food containers, consider upgrading to a quality glass set instead. Unlike plastic, glass food containers are typically oven-safe, dishwasher-safe, and more durable than their plastic counterparts (so they won't become stained or bent). 

“Glass containers last longer (as long as you don't break them!) while plastic ones can easily get scratched and warped in the dishwasher,” says Talia Koren , founder of the meal planning subscription service and blog Workweek Lunch and author of The Workweek Lunch Cookbook . “Glass containers are less likely to retain odors and color from food as well.” 

To find the best glass food containers, we tested 20 models in real-world conditions, evaluating their design, capacity, shapes, sizes, durability, and ease of use. We also spoke with Koren for her expert insight into how to best use glass food containers. From affordable sets for the meal-prep novice to compartmentalized picks for packing lunch, we tested and selected a range of glass food containers to suit different needs.

Best Overall Glass Food Storage Containers

Glasslock 18-piece assorted container set.

• Durability 5 /5
• Ease of Cleaning 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Ease of Use 5 /5
• Performance 5 /5

These leakproof containers are sturdy but not too heavy.

The gasket on the lid doesn’t pop out easily, making it a bit difficult to clean.

This set of nine containers and nine lids, with a capacity range from 0.7 cups to 6 cups, is dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning. You can pop the glass components of the containers into the oven and microwave, and the BPA-free polypropylene lids have rubber seals to lock in freshness. 

We used these containers to store packed lunches, fresh lettuces, soups, salads, leftovers, and fresh fruit and found that the set was sturdy and high quality. These containers aced our leak test and freshness test and didn’t retain any odors or stains. One downside we noticed is that the rubber gaskets on the lids are challenging to reinsert—it may be easier to clean them with a small brush before putting the lids in the dishwasher. 

This set contains various shapes and sizes, making it ideal for all your storage needs, from packing lunch to saving leftovers. The largest container, a 6-cup rectangle, was too small for big leftover meals, so shoppers who want to store batches of food might need an 8- or 10-cup container. 

Glass Type: Not listed | Lid Type: Plastic | Sizes: 6-cup rectangle (1), 3.5-cup rectangle (2), 1-cup square (1), 1-cup round (1), 3-cup square (1), 1.5-cup square (1), 3-cup round (1), 1.6-cup round (1), 0.7-cup round (1) | Care: Dishwasher-safe

Real Simple / Awa Dia

Best Budget Glass Food Storage Containers

Pyrex 18-piece glass food storage container.

These lightweight glass containers are oven-safe and freezer-safe.

The press-on lids are easy to use but may not be as leakproof as a snap-on lid with gaskets.

Pyrex is known for its durable yet lightweight food storage that can last a lifetime when properly cared for, and this set is no exception. “Pyrex glass containers are definitely my favorite,” says Koren “They make oven-safe, freezer-safe glass containers that are significantly lighter in weight than other brands.”

This affordable 18-piece set features a variety of rectangular and round containers in varying sizes, ideal for storing leftovers and meal prep. The different colored lids make it easy to match them to their corresponding containers and color code for better fridge, freezer, and pantry organization . The set also stacks neatly together to maximize storage space.

Made from tempered glass—meaning the glass is heat treated to be more durable—the containers are microwave-, freezer-, oven-, and dishwasher-safe. Still, we don't recommend exposing them to extreme temperature changes, like going directly from the freezer to the oven. (The same goes for all tempered glass containers, as borosilicate glass has better thermal shock resistance.) However, tempered glass is less prone to breaking when dropped or bumped. 

We loved these containers for storing leftovers and fresh produce. The containers aced our leak test, and we were pleasantly surprised by how well they performed in the freshness test. Our food was reheated evenly in the microwave, and overall the containers were sturdy and easy to clean.

This set is a great fit for home cooks who store leftovers or for family meal planning since the variety of sizes allows you to separate different ingredients. This pick is not the best option for bento-box-style food storage because anything you put in one container will likely mix.

Glass Type: Tempered | Lid Type: Plastic | Sizes: 7-cup round (1), 6-cup rectangle (1), 4-cup round (1), 3-cup rectangle (2), 2-cup round (2), 1-cup round (1) | Care: Top-rack dishwasher-safe

Real Simple / Ashley Schaubroeck

Best Glass Food Storage Containers for Meal Prep

Bayco glass meal prep container set.

The divided containers are an excellent size for prepping meals.

This pick may be difficult to stack, and there’s no variation in size within the set.

During testing, these divided containers stood out as the perfect pick for weekly meal prepping. The set comes with eight 4-cup containers and eight lids, allowing you to prep weekly meals for one or two people. Each container is divided into three sections (one large and two small) to separate your ingredients or snacks. 

The glass containers are microwave- and oven-safe, and the containers and lids are dishwasher- and freezer-safe. We found them highly effective at sealing air and keeping food fresh and were impressed by how easy they were to clean. The containers don’t easily nest inside each other for stacking due to the partitions in the containers, meaning they may not be the best selection for people tight on storage space. There’s no variation in size, which might be inconvenient for people who want to store various foods. 

Overall, we thought these were well worth the price considering the high craftsmanship and sturdy materials. In fact, there was no chipping or breakage when we accidentally dropped a container on a granite countertop. 

Glass Type: Borosilicate | Lid Type: BPA-free plastic | Sizes: 4-cup rectangle (8) | Care: Dishwasher-safe

Real Simple / Roxanne Allen

Best Glass Food Storage Containers for Lunches

Prep naturals glass meal prep container set.

• Performance 4.5 /5
• Design 4.5 /5

These divided glass containers are leakproof, making them great for packed lunches.

This set didn’t perform well on our freshness test, so it may not be the best pick for people storing cut or peeled fruits and veggies.

Divided containers are a game-changer for meal prep, allowing you to portion ingredients into separate compartments without using multiple containers. These glass food storage containers have two compartments and a leakproof locking lid, making them ideal for preparing and carrying lunches to work and school. Plus, their stackable, rectangular design helps you save precious fridge space during the week.

The thermal shock-resistant borosilicate glass means the containers (which are safe for the microwave, oven, freezer, and dishwasher) can safely go from one temperature extreme to the next. Plus, the vented lids release steam or pressure if you put hot food directly in the containers. While the lids are leakproof, the compartments are not, so we recommend storing liquids in a separate container to avoid spillover from one section to the other.

These sturdy containers are also pretty heavy. While we found they are great for home use, they might be too heavy for taking meals on the go. The set performed great on the leak test—spilling not even a drop of water!—but we were disappointed during the freshness test when peeled and pitted avocados were noticeably brown after three days. The containers were easy to clean , didn’t retain odors or stains, and were of great quality for the price point. 

Glass Type: Borosilicate | Lid Type: Plastic | Sizes : 2-compartment rectangle (5) | Care: Dishwasher-safe

Real Simple / Joseph Manalang

Best Leakproof Glass Food Storage Containers

Pyrex freshlock glass storage set with microban.

• Durability 4.8 /5
• Design 4.3 /5

These leakproof containers scored incredibly high on our freshness test.

The containers don’t nest or stack easily, meaning the set takes up a lot of storage space.

This set contains a versatile range of sizes, from a round 7-cup container down to a 2-cup container. We loved the 7-cup container for storing batches of ground chicken or grains and found the 2-cup sizes ideal for small portions of snacks, sides, and leftovers. However, these sizes aren’t the best option for batch cooking or storing leftovers for a crowd. 

These containers earned a perfect score on our leak test, and we were impressed by how they performed on the freshness test—a pitted, peeled avocado was shockingly green and fresh after three days. 

We found that the containers don’t nest or stack easily, so the best way to store them—stacked with the lids on—takes up some significant storage space. We also noticed that we needed to apply some pressure to lock and unlock the tabs on each lid. While the containers and lids are dishwasher-safe, we found that the rubber gaskets on the lids don’t remove for cleaning, which may lead to grease or crumbs accumulating over time unless you hand-clean the gaskets after use. 

Glass Type: Not listed | Lid Type: BPA-free plastic | Sizes: 2-cup round (2), 3-cup rectangle (1), 4-cup square (1), and 7-cup round (1)   | Care: Dishwasher-safe

Real Simple / Danielle St. Pierre

Best Glass Food Storage Containers for Freezer

Amazon basics glass food storage container set.

These containers, available at an adorable price point, are leakproof and keep food fresh.

Because of the varying sizes, the containers are difficult to store neatly.

Whether you're using your freezer to store superfoods or make-ahead meals for family dinners , keeping the contents organized will make your life easier. Oven-safe glass containers like this Amazon Basics set are ideal because you can bake, cool, and freeze all in the same dish—no washing necessary. 

This set is quite the bargain, offering 10 containers and 10 lids at an affordable price. The containers performed excellently on our leak test and kept food fresh in the fridge and freezer—there was no freezer burn or other food degradation during use. 

We think these containers are great for being on the go, thanks to the sturdy silicone and plastic lids. They’re also great for storing items in the freezer—you can move them directly into the fridge when it’s time to defrost. Plus, these dishwasher-safe containers cleaned up perfectly with no stains or odor left behind.  

Glass Type: Not listed | Lid Type: Plastic | Sizes: 1.3-cup round (3), 1.6-cup rectangle (2), 1.7-cup square (1), 3-cup round (1) 3.6-cup rectangle (2), 4-cup square (1), 7.8-cup rectangle (1) | Care: Dishwasher-safe (lids on the top rack)

Real Simple / Alyssa Kingham

Best Large Glass Food Storage Containers

Razab extra large glass food storage containers.

The large size is excellent for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

There isn’t much variety in container size—people who want to store sides, dips, and leftovers may want smaller container options.

While nearly all of the food storage containers on our list are freezer-safe, this set is particularly ideal for those who like to batch cook and freeze meals in advance or store large quantities of ingredients in the freezer. The set comes with three square containers in sizes ranging from 3.4 cups all the way up to 9.3 cups—making them suitable for stacking to maximize fridge and freezer space. The leakproof lids feature a locking mechanism, so you can feel comfortable freezing soups without worrying about spills. 

In addition to being freezer-safe, these containers are also safe for use in the microwave, oven, and dishwasher (just be sure to remove the lids before using the oven or microwave). Furthermore, the clear glass makes it easy to see what’s inside, even when frozen. Another reason we love this set is that it's made with borosilicate glass, which can withstand extreme temperature changes better than tempered glass. 

We loved these heavy, substantial containers for home cooking projects, like storing double batches of bolognese or prepping meals for a potluck. The impressive seal also performed great during the leak test, and we noticed only slight browning during the avocado freshness test. Plus, these containers are pretty enough to double as serving dishes. 

Glass Type: Borosilicate | Lid Type: Plastic | Sizes: 3.4-cup square (1), 5-cup square (1), 9.3-cup square (1) | Care: Dishwasher-safe (top rack recommended)

Real Simple / Frances Crouter

Best Baking Dish Food Storage Containers

Pyrex glass baking dish with lid.

• Ease of Use 4.5 /5

The handles make this oven-safe dish an all-star for cooking, serving, and storing.

The lid isn’t completely secure, so it’s not ideal for storing saucier dishes.

The highlight of this 2-quart glass baking dish is the two wide handles, which help you keep a firm grip while baking and serving. It has a plastic press-on lid, so you can store (cooled) dishes in the fridge or freezer. We liked that it was large enough to cook food but slim enough to store easily, especially because it’s easy to stack and dishwasher-safe. 

We particularly loved this dish for baking chicken, roasting vegetables, and preparing pasta dishes. That said, it’s probably not the best pick for particularly watery dishes, like soups, since the lid doesn’t seem as secure as lids with locking tabs. Overall, we found this dish easy and convenient for prepping, baking, serving, and storing. 

Glass Type: Non-porous | Lid Type: BPA-free plastic | Sizes: 2-quart rectangle (1) | Care: Dishwasher-safe (the lid on the top rack only)

Real Simple / Brittany Irvine

The Glasslock 18-Piece Assorted Glass Container Set is our top pick for its sturdy design that is leakproof, dishwasher-safe, and great at keeping food fresh. Plus, the container sizes range from 0.7 cups to 6 cups in capacity, and the glass base of each container can be used in the microwave or the oven to heat or cook food. If you’re searching for a budget alternative, opt for the Pyrex Simply Store 18-Piece Glass Storage Set which is made of durable tempered glass and performed impressively during our leak tests. 

We tested 20 sets of glass containers by integrating them into our kitchen routines in real-world conditions. We also did a series of standard tests for continuity across all the products we tested. 

First, we conducted a leak test by filling a container with water and sealing it with the included lid. After sealing the lid, we vigorously shook the container for a minute to see if any liquid escaped. 

We also stored a peeled, pitted avocado in each container for three days to see if the avocado remained fresh and green or browned due to oxidation. Throughout the testing period, we also noted how the meals and ingredients looked and tasted after storing them in the containers, especially anything frozen and thawed.

We evaluated each container’s design, considering how well the lids worked, and checked if they were stackable for easy storage. We also looked at the materials of the containers and lids to see if they were sturdy and long-lasting and assessed the versatility of the sizes within each set. To evaluate baking dishes, we used them in the oven and stored the baked goods or other cooked food inside. 

For any microwave-safe models, we reheated or cooked food in the containers at least once. We also washed the containers according to their instructions to see if any odors or staining remained.

How to Shop for Glass Food Storage Containers

Glass can vary in terms of durability, price, and function. Here are some of the most common types of glass you might come across in food storage containers:

Untreated soda lime glass is the least expensive type and most common for window panes, glass bottles, and food jars. Untreated glass is prone to shattering due to thermal shock, so untreated glass is not oven- or freezer-safe. Therefore, you're not likely to find food storage containers made with non-heat-treated soda-lime glass.

Tempered glass is soda lime glass that has been heat treated to make it more durable and heat-resistant. It's safer than untreated glass because if it does break, it crumbles rather than breaking into shards, so there's less likelihood of injury. Compared to untreated glass and borosilicate glass, tempered glass is much less likely to break when dropped or hit against something.

Borosilicate glass is the most resistant to thermal shock and can withstand extreme temperature changes. It contains boron trioxide, an ingredient that changes the nature of the glass, allowing it to go straight from the freezer to the oven without cracking. On the downside, borosilicate is more expensive and brittle than tempered glass, meaning it's more likely to break if you drop it.

So which type of glass is right for your needs? If you want to carry leftovers or work lunches on the go, tempered glass is the least prone to cracking if dropped. However, if you plan to move your containers from the oven to the fridge and vice versa, borosilicate glass is the least likely to crack under these conditions.

Most glass food storage containers feature a plastic or silicone lid (often a plastic lid with a silicone seal), though it is possible to find glass food storage containers with glass lids. Be sure to check the manufacturer instructions when it comes to your lid—the glass containers may be oven-, microwave-, and dishwasher-safe, but the plastic lids will not be. Many plastic lids can be washed in the dishwasher on the top rack.

Glass food storage containers with snap-on or locking lids feature a lock-in-place mechanism that protects from leaks and odors, making them an excellent choice for on-the-go storage, such as school or work lunches. "Snap-on lids are ideal for food storage because not only does it help keep odors in the containers (and not in your fridge), but it also ensures food won't spill if you're taking food to work with you," says Koren.

When shopping for storage containers, consider what features are most important for your needs. If you plan to reheat leftovers at work, opt for containers that are microwave-safe . Want to bake, serve, and store all in one container? Double-check that your container is oven-safe and consider borosilicate glass for extreme temperature changes. Freezer-safe food storage containers are best for meal prepping because they allow you to prep and store meals weeks in advance. 

Size and Shape

How you plan to use your glass food storage containers will affect which sizes you choose. Whether baking a family-size lasagna or storing tiny portions of baby food, glass food storage containers can range from 1 cup to 7 cups, so you can find a size to fit any storage need.

"For most lunches and dinners I like to use a 30-ounce (roughly 3 cups) container," says Koren. "This size holds plenty of food for one portion and is easy to carry around."

When it comes to shape, rectangular containers are the best for optimizing fridge or freezer space, while round containers are ideal for storing liquids. For dry goods—bigger doesn't necessarily mean better. Some ingredients, such as whole grains, seeds, nuts, or ground spices, can go rancid when stored in bulk over long periods, so you may want to purchase smaller containers for certain ingredients.

Variety and Quantity

When in doubt, opt for various shapes and sizes to suit any need. Variety sets often feature containers that easily stack to minimize the space they take up in your cabinets . If you want a container for a specific purpose, such as storing baby food, you can also find sets that include just one or two different sizes and shapes for a designated purpose.

More Glass Storage Containers to Consider

Glasslock Duo 5-Piece Tempered Glass Container Set : These containers kept our avocado fresh and didn’t spill a drop of water during testing. However, we noticed that food got caught between the rubber gasket and the plastic lid and that the lids required more muscle to open and close. 

Rubbermaid Brilliance 8-Piece Glass Food Storage Container Set : These containers kept food fresh and performed well in the leak test. That said, the glass was heavy and the containers don’t nest well together for storage. We also noticed that water was trapped between the rubber seal and the plastic of the lid, making it difficult to dry properly after cleaning.

Questions You Might Ask

Are glass food storage containers better than plastic.

The type of food storage container you choose comes down to personal preference, but Koren recommends glass. “ Glass and plastic food storage containers function the same when it comes to storing food, though I prefer glass and recommend them to people who utilize meal prep and leftovers often,” says Koren. Glass food storage containers generally have a longer lifespan  (provided they don’t break), are oven-safe, and are less likely to retain odors or stains.

However, glass does have its disadvantages: Glass containers are heavier, more likely to break or shatter, and more expensive than plastic containers. With proper care, glass food storage containers will last longer than plastic containers, but you have to assess their potential drawbacks, especially if you plan to take containers on the go. People with kids may also want to consider plastic containers to eliminate any risk of glass breaking.

What type of glass is best for food storage?

Tempered glass is one of the most common and reliable types of glass for food storage because it's affordable, heat-resistant, and the least likely to break when dropped or hit against something. However, borosilicate glass is better if your containers undergo extreme heat changes (namely while cooking and/or meal prepping).

Can glass food storage containers go in the oven and freezer?

Tempered glass containers can go in the oven and freezer, but you have to take special measures to avoid temperature shock: "If you plan on reheating food from frozen in glass containers, I recommend letting the container sit in the fridge overnight or on the counter for a few hours to avoid the risk of shattering a cold container in a hot oven," says Koren. If you don't want to take these measures, opt for a thermal shock-resistant borosilicate glass container.

This article was written by Melanie Fincher , associate commerce editor for Real Simple with three years of experience writing product reviews and lifestyle content, and updated by Nina Bahadur , an enthusiastic home cook and writer with over a decade of experience covering home, health, and beauty topics. To compile this list, we assessed 20 different glass container models in real-world conditions, checking how they performed in leak tests and freshness tests and reviewing their sizes, ease of use, ease of storage, and cleaning instructions. We also tapped Talia Koren , founder of the meal planning subscription service and blog Workweek Lunch and author of The Workweek Lunch Cookbook , for her expert tips on what to look for in glass food storage containers.

Next to each product on this list, you may have noticed a Real Simple Selects seal of approval . Any product appearing alongside that seal has been vetted by our team—put through tests and graded on its performance to earn a spot on our list. Although we buy most of the products we test, sometimes we do get samples from companies if purchasing a product ourselves isn’t an option. All products go through the same rigorous process, whether they are purchased or sent by the company.

Love our recommendations? Check out more products that have earned the Real Simple Selects , from humidifiers to cordless vacuums.

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Rusmania • Deep into Russia

Out of the Centre

Savvino-storozhevsky monastery and museum.

Zvenigorod's most famous sight is the Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery, which was founded in 1398 by the monk Savva from the Troitse-Sergieva Lavra, at the invitation and with the support of Prince Yury Dmitrievich of Zvenigorod. Savva was later canonised as St Sabbas (Savva) of Storozhev. The monastery late flourished under the reign of Tsar Alexis, who chose the monastery as his family church and often went on pilgrimage there and made lots of donations to it. Most of the monastery’s buildings date from this time. The monastery is heavily fortified with thick walls and six towers, the most impressive of which is the Krasny Tower which also serves as the eastern entrance. The monastery was closed in 1918 and only reopened in 1995. In 1998 Patriarch Alexius II took part in a service to return the relics of St Sabbas to the monastery. Today the monastery has the status of a stauropegic monastery, which is second in status to a lavra. In addition to being a working monastery, it also holds the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum.

Belfry and Neighbouring Churches

Located near the main entrance is the monastery's belfry which is perhaps the calling card of the monastery due to its uniqueness. It was built in the 1650s and the St Sergius of Radonezh’s Church was opened on the middle tier in the mid-17th century, although it was originally dedicated to the Trinity. The belfry's 35-tonne Great Bladgovestny Bell fell in 1941 and was only restored and returned in 2003. Attached to the belfry is a large refectory and the Transfiguration Church, both of which were built on the orders of Tsar Alexis in the 1650s.  

To the left of the belfry is another, smaller, refectory which is attached to the Trinity Gate-Church, which was also constructed in the 1650s on the orders of Tsar Alexis who made it his own family church. The church is elaborately decorated with colourful trims and underneath the archway is a beautiful 19th century fresco.

Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is the oldest building in the monastery and among the oldest buildings in the Moscow Region. It was built between 1404 and 1405 during the lifetime of St Sabbas and using the funds of Prince Yury of Zvenigorod. The white-stone cathedral is a standard four-pillar design with a single golden dome. After the death of St Sabbas he was interred in the cathedral and a new altar dedicated to him was added.

Under the reign of Tsar Alexis the cathedral was decorated with frescoes by Stepan Ryazanets, some of which remain today. Tsar Alexis also presented the cathedral with a five-tier iconostasis, the top row of icons have been preserved.

Tsaritsa's Chambers

The Nativity of Virgin Mary Cathedral is located between the Tsaritsa's Chambers of the left and the Palace of Tsar Alexis on the right. The Tsaritsa's Chambers were built in the mid-17th century for the wife of Tsar Alexey - Tsaritsa Maria Ilinichna Miloskavskaya. The design of the building is influenced by the ancient Russian architectural style. Is prettier than the Tsar's chambers opposite, being red in colour with elaborately decorated window frames and entrance.

At present the Tsaritsa's Chambers houses the Zvenigorod Historical, Architectural and Art Museum. Among its displays is an accurate recreation of the interior of a noble lady's chambers including furniture, decorations and a decorated tiled oven, and an exhibition on the history of Zvenigorod and the monastery.

Palace of Tsar Alexis

The Palace of Tsar Alexis was built in the 1650s and is now one of the best surviving examples of non-religious architecture of that era. It was built especially for Tsar Alexis who often visited the monastery on religious pilgrimages. Its most striking feature is its pretty row of nine chimney spouts which resemble towers.

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