10 Best Outdoor Coolers 2025 in the United States

The Coleman Classic Series Insulated Portable Cooler is a solid choice for camping or outdoor adventures, especially if you need a large capacity cooler. With a 150-quart size, it can hold up to 124 cans and a hefty 82 pounds of ice, making it great for group outings. Its TempLock FX insulation helps keep ice frozen for up to five days, which is impressive for extended trips. The cooler is built tough with durable plastic and features a lid that doubles as a seat supporting up to 250 pounds, adding extra convenience on your trip. Portability is balanced here; while it has easy-grip handles designed to be strong, the cooler is fairly large and weighs over 12 kilograms empty, so it might be a bit bulky for solo use or frequent moving.

The leak-resistant tethered drain plug is a smart touch, preventing messes and loss, and the stain-resistant liner with an EZ-Clean lid makes cleanup easier. Additional perks include four cup holders on the lid to help avoid spills. One consideration is that the cooler’s size and weight might limit portability for some users, especially if you need something lightweight or compact. But if you prioritize capacity, ice retention, and durability for outdoor gatherings or camping trips, this Coleman cooler delivers well.

The Coleman 316 Series Insulated Portable Cooler is a robust and versatile choice for outdoor activities like tailgating, camping, and beach trips. With a substantial 100-quart capacity, it can hold up to 80 cans and 50 lbs. of ice, making it ideal for large gatherings. The TempLock FX Insulation ensures multi-day ice retention, keeping your items cool for extended periods, which is a significant advantage for longer trips.

The heavy-duty wheels and easy-tow handle enhance portability, allowing you to move the cooler effortlessly even when fully loaded. Constructed with 15% less plastic, it has an eco-conscious design, and the leak-proof tethered drain plug adds to its durability by preventing unwanted spills. The sturdy Have-A-Seat Lid can support up to 250 lbs., providing additional seating when needed. The four cup holders on the lid can accommodate up to 30oz tumblers, adding convenience.

Cleaning is straightforward thanks to the stain-resistant liner and easy-to-clean lid. However, at 20.37 pounds, the cooler is relatively heavy, which might be a drawback for some users, especially when maneuvering it over long distances or rough terrain. Despite this, the Coleman 316 Series offers a great balance of capacity, ice retention, and durability, making it a reliable choice for various outdoor adventures.

The YETI Hopper Flip 12 is a small, tough portable cooler designed particularly for outdoor activities like hiking. It holds about 13 cans or 16 pounds of ice, with a 4.2-gallon capacity, which is great if you need to keep drinks and snacks cool for a day trip. Its insulation uses closed-cell polyurethane foam, which helps keep ice frozen longer than typical soft coolers. This means your food and beverages stay cold throughout the day.

A big plus is its durability: the DryHide shell is waterproof and resistant to punctures and abrasions, so it can handle rough outdoor use without damage. The waterproof zipper also helps lock out moisture, preventing leaks and protecting the contents from rain or splashes. Portability is a strong point here, too. Weighing just over 3 pounds and with a compact size (about 11.5" x 12.6" x 10"), it’s easy to carry or pack in a backpack. The top-flip design offers quick access without fully opening the cooler.

The capacity might be a bit small if you’re going on longer trips or need to store a lot of food, so it’s best suited for solo adventurers or small groups. Also, the premium materials and design mean it comes at a higher price compared to basic alternatives. This cooler is ideal if you want a rugged, reliable option that keeps ice longer, fits easily on hikes, and resists harsh conditions. It’s a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize performance and durability in a compact size.