The best coolers in 2025

Having managed a family through to adulthood, I have hands-on experience packing up some of the best coolers for days out and holidays. I know there’s nothing worse than packing up a picnic into a tiny space, or dragging a cooler over rough ground, while managing a hungry gang, to discover that your food and chilled beer, which you desperately crave, are warm.

To help you choose the best cooler for your next adventure, we've been testing a range of coolers to see how easy they are to move around and whether they actually keep your food and drinks cold.

My top recommendation is Ninja's FrostVault Cooler — it's a premium cooler with a mid-range price tag. But, if you're looking for capacity on a budget, I'd recommend Coleman's Classic Cooler — it doesn't have all the bells and whistles of the Ninja, but you get plenty of space for your dollars. You'll also find four other recommendations in this guide, and we are currently testing two further coolers to ensure our recommendations stay up to date.

The quick list

Best overall

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The Ninja FrostVault Cooler is the star of the show. It kept cans perfectly cold for eight whole days, with ice only melting after five. Although that's one day less than Ninja's claim, our tester, Erin, was still impressed, as five days should be enough for most trips. We think this is down to the heavy-duty, three-inch thick insulated walls, which does make it heavy to carry. However, the 'all-terrain' wheels and handle make it easy to tow around, especially when it's full. And the handle tucks neatly into the cooler when not in use.

We tested the 45-quart cooler that fits up to 68 cans, but you can also chose between a 30-quart or 65-quart model.

You'll find a dry storage drawer at the bottom of the box, it can get cold, but doesn't come into contact with ice, and be used to store anything that isn't wet. There's also a locking mechanism that keeps the drawer in place when you're on the move. And you'll find a drain at the bottom of the box to empty out the melted ice.

Our expert reviews writer, Ashley Thieme, described the cooler's performance as "short of astounding", and was impressed with the capacity and amazing ice retention that it offers.

It's not a budget buy, but what you get is a high-performing cooler that won't let you down when you're out on your next big adventure.

Read our full Ninja FrostVault Cooler review

Best budget

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The Coleman Classic Cooler is relatively cheap for its size, and apart from storing your catch or cans, it will double up as a seat. It doesn’t quite stretch to Coleman’s claims of staying cool for five day (if you don't open the lid), but it will keep your food and drink chilled for 48 hours. Erin, our tester, said that after 20 hours days all the ice had melted, and by day four it had reached room temperature.

You’ll find the exterior is hard and sturdy, so it will withstand the rigors of being transported in the back of a truck, while at 31 inches long, you’ll be able to pack in a plentiful supply of provisions.

It’s also roomy enough to act as a seat, and four cup holders are embedded in the lid, so you can chill out while out on your adventure, without worrying about your beverages toppling over. There’s also a fish rule for those competitive fishing trips.

Opening and closing the lid is tricky to master, and the 70-quart model doesn’t come with wheels but for durability and capacity you get a lot of bang for your buck. We think it’s a great budget buy, offering lots of capacity at an exceptional price, and its ice retention will keep your items cool for a weekend trip.

Read our full Coleman Classic Cooler review

Best wheeled cooler

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The Yeti Roadie Cooler gets a thumbs up from our tester, Erin, who says it’s expensive for a reason. It’s incredibly well-made, easy to latch and unlatch and the wheels are stable. Plus, the handle is smooth to extend and retract.

But before we get carried away, we need to consider the cooler’s ice retention capabilities. Well, it scored well there, too. It kept ice-cold for over three days, and we’d recommend it for weekends away and even 3+ day camping trips.

Erin tested the 32-quart model, but you can purchase anything from 15 quarts to 60 quarts. And there was no doubt about the Yeti Roadie’s stand-out feature. She was bowled over by the wheels, which kept the cooler steady even over rough cobbles. Although one downside is that it doesn’t have carry handles, for when you want to lift the cooler up or down steps, whether at the beach, or in and out of your own apartment.

Its looks are also something to behold, and there’s a decent color choice to choose from — making it a pair of wheels to be proud of.

Maintaining the Yeti Roadie is simple. The internal space is easy to wipe clean, and the drain plug at the rear allows the melted ice to escape. You can also purchase a plentiful supply of accessories, including cool dividers, reusable ice packs, and cup holders.

Read our full Yeti Roadie Cooler review

Best for day trips

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We loved this cooler so much, and because of its small capacity and compact dimensions, it's suitable for days out, rather than weekends away. When our reviewer, Erin, tested it she found the Engel Cooler keeps drinks cold for over 24 hours, and cools them for up to 48. And although it doesn't have wheels, they liked its sturdy handle, which makes it easy enough to carry about.

What's more, if color is your thing, you won't be short-changed. We tested the white version, but I have my eye on the Coral colorway, which is just one of 14 options. I may have to start a collection!

Despite its small size, it's surprisingly spacious and our reviews team were able to fit in cans and a big bag of ice, with space to spare. They also found it lightweight to carry, which is a bargain when you're carrying swimming gear, sun cream and a whole host of other paraphernalia to your picnic spot.

However, if this 19-quart model is too large for you needs, you can downsize to the seven-quart or 13-quart version. Whereas, if you need more storage, you can up the capacity with the 30-quart model, although none of the models come with wheels.

At Tom's Guide we love a multi-functional product, and apart from offering excellent cooling properties, it doubles up as a dry box for fishing trips or beach parties.

Read our full Engel Cooler review

Best soft cooler

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We don’t always want a hard-cased cooler to take on trips, and that’s where Yeti’s Hopper comes in handy. It’s a premium cool bag with soft edges, and although it’s not a backpack, you can pick it up and go.

Erin tested the Yeti Hopper 15, with 15 quarts of capacity, but if you want more space, the M20 provides 20 quarts. However, choosing this soft cool bag isn’t a cheap option, and it’s pricier than many hard coolers.

So, what makes this soft cooler worth the price? Erin thinks the design is exceptional and values the options of hand or padded shoulder straps, which help to soften the load when the cooler gets heavy.

However, her favorite aspect is the magnetic snap opening, which Yeti refers to as ‘MagShield’. It’s almost impossible to open it without pulling on a tab, which gives you peace of mind that the cold won’t escape.

Inside, you’ll find a lining similar to those found in lunch bags, which is constructed using “closed-cell foam”, and Yeti says it’s mildew resistant. It also proved to stay cool for 48 hours — that’s pretty impressive for a soft cooler.

For the price, you get an exceptionally stylish cooler that won’t break out into a sweat trying to keep cool, and if color is your thing, there’s plenty of choice.

Read our full Yeti Hopper review

Best lightweight

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The Igloo Marine Ultra Cooler looks smart and plays smart. We tested the 54-quart model, which can hold 76 cans, and it maintains a low temperature for multiple days (although not quite four days as claimed).

Weighing in at 5 lbs, it’s lightweight as coolers go, freeing up your muscles to carry all those cans. And while it’s light in weight, it’s also low in price, coming in as a budget buy. You also get some handy extras, including cup holders on the lid and a fish ruler to measure your prize catch.

Although it can’t be used as a dry box, as it doesn’t have a sealed gasket ring, it does have a drip tap, which makes emptying the cool box super easy once all the ice has melted.

We also found this Igloo cooler pretty easy to move around, and despite it missing out on a set of wheels, its dual handles make it possible for two people to carry.

Although we had a few issues with opening the latch with one hand, as it appeared stiff, overall, this cooler does offer a lot for the money. However, because the ice retention was short of what Igloo claims, we think its best for for short getaways, rather than long breaks.

Read our full Igloo Marine Cooler review

Next up

We are currently testing other coolers and will be updating this guide with our results. The next products we have lined-up include:

Anker SOLIX EverFrost 2, 42-quart electric cooler
Suitable for tough terrain and with six-inch wheels, Anker claims the Solix EverFrost Electric Cooler will keep things cool for over four days.

EcoFlow Glacier Classic Portable Fridge Freezer, 45L
This hard cooler offers 2-in-1 cooling with a dual zone design for maximum flexibility, and claims to offer 43 hours of off-grid use.

How we test and select

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Before we called in the best coolers to test, we conducted extensive research to find the most highly rated coolers on the market. This involved researching other competitor websites, checking the products for consistent ratings, and reading user reviews to discover the pros and cons of each.

We also looked at a cross-section of coolers to test, with premium, mid-range, and budget options and basic models for those with extra features, such as dry storage compartments and drink holders.

The models we shortlisted have all been highly recommended, and once called in for testing, have been put through their paces by our reviews team.

Ice retention

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One of our main tests is to check the manufacturer’s ice retention claims — after all, this is the main reason for investing in a cooler. We start by filling the cooler with ice (the amount will depend on the cooler’s capacity). We then check back to see how long the cooler stays chilled, and record how long it takes the ice to melt completely.

We complete a similar test by placing cans inside the cooler (here, again, the amount depends on the cooler’s capacity). A can is removed every two2 hours (although not overnight), and we record when the cans no longer feel chilled.

Further tests

Apart from ice retention, we look at other aspects of each cooler, including:

Capacity: Does it hold the number of cans claimed, and is it easy to pack? Does it offer any added flexibility with dry storage or separate compartments?

Portability: How easy is it to carry, does it have wheels, carry handles, or a pull-along handle?

Weight: Does the weight cause an issue if the cooler is on the heavy side? Does the cooler compensate by having wheels?

Durability: How sturdy does the cooler appear? Will it withstand tough adventures, or is it more suitable for lunchtimes in the park?

Price: Is the cooler worth the price tag? Do you get a lot for your money, or is it premium without the functionality you would expect?

Ease of use: Is it easy to open the lid? How do the clasps/fasteners work? Are the handles comfortable to hold?

After making all the observations above, we only add products to the best coolers buying guide we recommend.

How to choose the best cooler

How to choose the best cooler for you 

Before you choose a cooler, you must consider its size. Size ultimately affects the portability. On top of that, you need to decide on the external material — whether you want a hard or soft case. If you need to carry it for extended times, opt for soft, but if you want one for large get-togethers, or you need durability, a hard case would be best.

Portable vs. non portable: If you don’t plan to move your cooler once it’s placed, then you don’t need to worry so much about its portability. But, if you’re planning to take it on vacation or on road trips, then consider how much it will weigh at full capacity and whether you will be comfortable carrying it. You may want to consider a cooler with wheels.

Durability: The latches must seal securely and shouldn’t ease up when travelling. The cooler won’t be able to insulate effectively if the seal is broken.

Insulation: You want your cooler to be effective at insulating, so it keeps its contents chilled for as long as possible. The performance in this can vary — some models will keep ice frozen for up to a week, while others will only last a day.

Extra features: If you want the latest features and you’re happy to pay for it, look out for external storage compartments, cup holders, bottle openers and even umbrella holders. There are also models available which offer bike attachments.

Cooler FAQs

What size cooler should I buy?

The size cooler you buy will depend on how you intend to use it, the number of your party and how long you will need to keep items cool. If you are going on a day excursion, and you are in a small group, you’ll probably be fine with a small soft-sided cooler, which will also be easier to carry than one with hard sides.

For a group of three people on a daytrip, a 40-quart cooler will probably meet your needs, but if you are going away for a couple of days a cooler with a 50-60-quart capacity will be more suitable. However, do remember that the larger the cooler the heavier and more awkward it will be to carry, unless you are able to pull it along on wheels or a trolley. If weight is going to be an issue, purchasing two smaller coolers may be the answer.

How much ice do I need to put in a cooler?

This will depend on the size/capacity of your chosen cooler. However, the ideal ice-to-contents ratio is 2:1. This will ensure you have sufficient ice to keep everything nice and chilled.

How can I keep my cooler cool?

Your cooler should work hard to keep your food and drink chilled, but to optimize it's performance it's worth following these steps:

• Pre-chill your foods or beverages before putting them into the box. This will keep them cooler for longer, and even save ice. Plus, nobody likes warm snacks!
  
• Always keep the cooler box lid closed as much as possible, to prevent the cold air escaping. So try not to keep it open for long periods of time.
  
• If you fill your cooler box to the top, this can also prevent the cold air escaping each time you open it.