Best Ice Chest Cooler
After taking a deep dive into the heavy duty cooler market, we’ve found that the best ice chest is the ORCA 40 qt cooler. It’s got a fantastic look, has a decent capacity of 40 qts, does a good job of keeping food quite cold, and is covered under an unbeatable lifetime warranty.
The ORCA is on the pricey side, and does not include wheels, but it hits a nice balance between price and quality. It’s a great cooler for boaters, hunters, preppers, and those who have the need to keep food cool for days. It’s the last cooler you’ll ever buy!
Last update on 2024-11-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
For further deatils on the ORCA 40 qt. ice chest, see the Product Reviews section below.
Runner Up: Best High Capacity Heavy-Duty Cooler
Out runner up just barely missed first place and is the Driftsun 75 Quart Ice Chest Heavy Duty Cooler . This model is pretty pricey, too, but can hold a whopping 75 qts. worth of ice, food, and drinks. Like the Pelican, it can maintain its internal temperature for 7-10 days in most situations.
It’s on the heavier side, but can also hold its own against bears and is made of UV resistant material. It’s non-slip, shouldn’t sweat, and is a great product for people to take with them camping, hunting, tailgating, or even just to the beach. It’s covered under a decent one-year warranty.
For more information on the Driftsun cooler, see the Product Reviews section below.
Last update on 2024-11-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Budget Choice: Best Cooler for the Money
For those on a budget, the Igloo Super Tough STX Cooler is the way to go. This 54 qt. model is lightweight, easy to carry, and holds a lot of food and drink.
That said, it’s a step down both in looks and in functionality, as its cooling duration is about half of what the better coolers can handle. It also doesn’t look as impressive as the top choices, and is more akin to a souped-up department-store cooler. That said, it’s an excellent for people who don’t want to spend a lot but still want a quality product.
For details on the Igloo STX, see the Product Reviews section below.
Last update on 2024-11-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Heavy Duty Ice Chest Buyer’s Tips
If you’re just looking for an occasional-use cooler to take to the beach from time to time, you can probably just stick with a standard Igloo cooler for $30 from a big box store. But if you are looking for some serious cooling power and a rugged exterior that will keep your food cold for several days, quality is important.
You life could be on the line!
In this section, we’ll look at several of the important factors to consider when shopping for a heavy duty ice chest.
Food Storage Capacity
The most important property to consider when shopping for a heavy duty cooler is the storage capacity requirements you have. Most of the coolers on our list are in the 45-75 qt. capacity, which is typically what is needed for food for a few people for a couple of days. This is appropriate size for camping, boating, and for emergency storage if the power goes out for a few days.
Insulation Capabilities
Heavy Duty Coolers typically have a significant amount of insulation protecting the interior contents from the elements. Often multiple inches of insulating foam is included, and the end result is that many of these coolers will often keep food cool for 7-10 days if properly cooled with ice inside.
That said, if the temperature is quite hot, then this insulation duration will be cut short, potentially by 50%. Keep this dynamic in mind, espeically if you’re considering one of the less expensive coolers that will only keep food cool for 3-5 days in normal temperatures. That will translate to 1-3 days under high heat conditions.
Ease of Movement and Stabilization
Most of the coolers on our list have rubber feet for stabiliation, while the Pelican Elite cooler includes wheels to make movement a snap. Rubber feet are extremely important for those who are on boats or in areas where the cooler can slide around a significant amount.
Wheels are a big help for those who don’t want to have to lug a heavy cooler by hand.
Animal-Resistant Features
Virtually all of the coolers include reinforced locking hasps usually made out of stainless steel, that are pretty robust and tamper-resistant. However, some of the items on the list advertise themselves as bear proof, which is certainly a plus for those who are doing back-woods camping and the like.
That said, some of those coolers advertised as bear-proof aren’t that bear proof. We’ll touch on that in our reviews.
Warranty
Different manufacturers offer significantly-varying warranty periods on their products, ranging from no warranty whatsoever to lifetime warranty. Generally, the more expensive the product, the better the warranty, though this isn’t always the case.
Still, it’s wise to pay attention to warranties, and to keep these in mind, as you’ll likely have these coolers for many years to come.
Pre-Chilling Your Cooler
Be sure to pay attention to the instructions on your cooler, which will likely state that the cooler needs to be pre-chilled in order to get to maximum cooling capacity. Typically you need to place a bag or two of ice in the cooler for a day or so prior to actually using the cooler. This bag will usually melt a decent amount, but will bring the interior temperature of the cooler down to the target temp.
Then add your food, drinks, and fresh ice and pack the cooler fully. From there, it should stay cold for several days.
Portable Ice Chest Reviews
An ice chest or cooler is a special device designed to keep food, drinks, and other temperature sensitive materials in a pleasant environment. Ice chests come in all shapes and sizes but tend to be insulated, sealed boxes made of hard plastic and insulated on the inside. They tend to be measured by how many quarts they can hold and are a staple for people interested in camping, boating, hunting, tailgating, or even just having a pleasant day at the beach.
Last update on 2024-11-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. Pelican Elite Wheeled Cooler
Key Points at a Glance
- Tan or White
- Wheeled
- Contains Polyurethane Insulation
- Comes with Pelican Lifetime Guarantee
- Includes Sealed Drain Plug
- Includes Bottle Opener
- Sturdy
- Durable
Dimensions and Specs
- Holds 55 Quarts
- Weighs 38 lbs.
- Product Dimensions: 19 x 12 x 12 in.
- Remains Cold Up to 7-10 Days
- 8 in. Wheel Circumference
The Details
Pelican is an excellent cooler brand, and is a manufacturer of top-of-the-line coolers designed for heavy use, outdoor activity, and a variety of environments. The Pelican Elite Wheeled Cooler is no exception to the company’s general quality.
This product comes in either tan or white with red or silver wheels and holds 55 quarts of ice. Once filled, the cooler retains its temperature for a maximum of 7-10 days in average conditions and 5 days in exceptionally hot climates.
The Pelican Elite Wheeled Cooler is easy to maneuver with large 8 in. wheels that fit well underneath and along the sides of the cooler. The handles are molded for an easy grip, and there are two 3 in. locking latches to keep the cooler sealed properly. Some additional features include tie-down slots, a stainless steel bottle opener, and an anti-shear hinge system.
That said, many find that the handle on this cooler is a little bit flimsy when completely full, which is the biggest concern we have with this cooler (along with the price!)
There are rubber feet on the bottom so the cooler stays in place while resting.
Without being filled, the Pelican Elite weighs 38 lbs. The interior contains 2 in. of polyurethane insulation for maximum protection, and there is also a sealed drain plug so owners can release the water on the inside on their own terms. The interior height is tall enough to stand a bottle of wine up and close the lid on top of it.
Though the Pelican cooler is priced the highest of all the coolers on our list, it doesn’t include a basket. Should you want a removable basket, you’ll need to pick one up separately.
Last update on 2024-11-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Each Elite Wheeled Cooler comes with the Pelican lifetime guarantee, which is a warranty that lasts as long as the product does. At any time after purchase, if the owner breaks this cooler, the manufacturer will replace it. That said, Pelican’s customer service can be a bit of a challenge, so it may take some time to get your replacement.
The Bottom Line
Pelican is one of those companies that’s difficult to beat when it comes to quality, and the Pelican Elite Wheeled Cooler is a great example. The cooler is extremely durable, remains cold for a long time, and is almost completely airtight once fully locked and sealed.
The main drawbacks are the price, which is out of the budgets of many, and the somewhat-flimsy handle. These two aspects knock the Pelican down just enough that it doesn’t make our top three, but it is an extremely good cooler in most circumstances.
- Volume: true 55 quart internal volume
- Extreme ice retention: 2 inch of polyurethane insulation with a 360 degree...
- Features: molded handles, 3 inch locking latches, reinforced lockable hasp,...
- Features: leakproof drain plug, 4 self draining cup holders, integrated...
- Made in the USA: includes Pelican legendary lifetime guarantee - you break...
Last update on 2024-11-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
2. RTIC Cooler, 45 qt
Key Points at a Glance
- Comes in 5 Colors
- V Draining System
- Has Rubber Feet
- Uses 3 in. of Insulating Foam
- Bear Resistant
- No Sweat Exterior
- Extremely Durable
- Warranties Available
Dimensions and Specs
- Holds 45 Quarts
- Remains Cold Up to 7-10 Days
- Weighs 25 lbs.
- Product Dimensions: 16 x 25 x 15 in.
The Details
The 45 quart RTIC Cooler (read as “Arctic”) is a popular ice chest that comes in five colors: blue, pink, green, tan, and white. White looks by far the best, as it almost always the case with heavy duty coolers.
The cooler is narrower on the bottom than the top and is capable of remaining cold for up to 7-10 days in regular conditions and 5 days in hotter climates, similar to the Pelican Elite above.
Unfilled, the cooler weighs 25 lbs. It’s capable of holding: 36 cans of soda or beer, 45 quarts of water, 40 lbs. of ice, and 11.25 gallons of water.
One unique quality of the RTIC Cooler is that it’s bear-resistant, meaning it was made to withstand bear attacks and be impenetrable from these large mammals. That said, bears are pretty strong, and a determined bear will almost certainly be able to get into this cooler over time.
The design prevents the exterior from sweating and utilizes 3 in. of foam to keep the interior cool. The RTIC Cooler does not have wheels but instead has sturdy rubber feet to prevent slipping and sliding.
The product is incredibly durable and almost airtight, preventing fluid from escaping and dust and muck from getting in.
The interior utilizes a V draining system so owners can more easily drain excess water and liquid. The cooler uses interlocking hinges and rubber T-latches to keep it closed. W
The only downside to the RTIC cooler is that the warranty is only for 30 days. This is odd, as the build quality is quite high and the lack of a good warranty signals a poorer quality product. We hope RTIC changes its warranty to be more in line with the other products on our list.
The Bottom Line
The RTIC coler is an outstanding cooler, and really is an excellent choice for a cooler. If it had a better warranty, it would almost certainly be our top choice given its price point. The RTIC retains its temperature for several days, is extremely robust, and is positioned at a great price point.
This cooler is an excellent choice for a heavy duty ice hest, and will likely last for many many years. We just wish RTIC backed up the cooler with a better guarantee!
- The RTIC 45 - Brand New in Box
Last update on 2024-11-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
3. Driftsun 75 Quart Ice Chest/Heavy Duty Cooler
Key Points at a Glance
- Comes in Five Colors
- Has 3 in. of Internal Insulation
- Warranty Included
- Durable
- No Sweat Exterior
- Dry Ice Compatible
- Includes Bottle Openers
- Non-Slip Feet
- Made of Ultraviolet Resistant Material
Dimensions and Specs
- Retains Temperature for 7-10 Days
- Holds 75 Quarts
- Weighs 32 lbs.
- Product Dimensions: 27 x 12 x 13 in.
The Details
The Driftsun 75 Quart Ice Chest/Heavy Duty Cooler (Driftsun Ice Chest) is a large cooler designed to store food and drinks for up to 7-10 days in any environment.
It weighs 32 lbs. when empty and is capable of holding 75 qts. of material ranging from sodas to ice to gallons of water.
Driftsun’s coolers are available in five colors: pink, grey, green, brown, and white. As with all of these coolers, the white looks by far the best.
It possesses a no-sweat exterior, meaning condensation shouldn’t form on the outside of the cooler. The material is also UV resistant, which means less heat and radiation should make it to the inside of the cooler.
The Driftsun Ice Chest maintains its temperature through the use of 3 in. of internal insulation and a thermoplastic exterior. This insulation is commercial grade, and works with branded ColdSeal latches and a freezer-style gasket for maximum efficiency.
There is an internal no-leak drain plug that can be removed by the owner but is sealed to prevent unwanted leakages. This cooler is one of the only ones on the market that is dry ice compatible.
The Driftsun 75 qt cooler features military-grade nylon handles for carrying and has non-slip rubber feet, though there are no wheels. The outside features molded tie-down slots and lock plates, as well as two included bottle openers for easy use.
Driftsun sells a couple of accessories for this cooler, namely cutting board/dividers, and a dry goods basket.
Last update on 2024-11-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
A manufacturer’s warranty is included upon purchase and lasts for 1 year, which is decent but certainly not Lifetime like some of the other coolers.
The Bottom Line
The Driftsun Ice Chest is a really high quality ice chest, has a large format, and will keep your food cold for days and days and days. All that is great. We wish the warranty was a little longer than 1 year, though, as it is a noticble let down!
Overall, the high capacity, cooling duration, and price point on this cooler brought it up to our Runner-Up spot. If you value warranties very highly, you may want to lean toward ORCA or Pelican, but otherwise, this is a great ice chest.
- INSULATED COOLER: Driftsun Ice Chests hold ice for days on end with up to...
- FEATURES: Every Driftsun Cooler is packed with features that make camping...
- SERIOUSLY TOUGH: All Driftsun Ice Chests are virtually Indestructible....
- SERIOUSLY COLD: The 75 Quart Driftsun Cooler has 3 inches of commercial...
- 1 YEAR MANUFACTURER WARRANTY: We guarantee our Ice Chests to be free from...
Last update on 2024-11-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
4. Igloo Super Tough STX Cooler
Key Points at a Glance
- White and Orange Patterned
- Uses Cooler Riser Technology
- Stainless Steel Hinges and Latches
- Uses Handles Instead of Wheels
- Threaded Drain Plug
- Features a Ruler on Top
- Durable
- 3-Year Warranty Included
Dimensions and Specs
- Basic Model Holds 54 Quarts
- Weighs 10 lbs.
- Product Dimensions: 26 x 15.6 x 15.1 in.
- Remains Cool for 3-5 Days
The Details
The Igloo Super Tough STX Cooler is a 54 qt. ice chest that weighs 10 lbs. and is more of a medium-duty cooler than most of the other products on our list. The STX is made of hardened plastic that comes in white with orange handles and accents. It definitely looks less robust than the other coolers on our list, and looks like a high quality box-chain cooler.
The interior is insulated using the manufacturer’s Cooler Riser technology. It’s capable of keeping food and drinks cool for 3-5 days depending on the weather — way less than the other coolers on our list. Of course, it’s way less expensive, too.
The hinges, latches, and lid straps of the Igloo Super Tough STX Cooler are made of stainless steel. One nice benefits of this model is that replacement parts can be reordered from the manufacturer if they break.
The entire cooler comes with a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty that covers replacement if the product is damaged during regular use.
One unusual feature in this cooler is that there is a ruler on the top for measuring.
This cooler is not wheeled and has regular handles on each side. In general, the Igloo Super Tough STX Cooler is durable and capable of forming a tight seal.
The Bottom Line
The Igloo Super Tough STX Cooler is the best option for individuals on a budget due to its attractive price point. Although it doesn’t last as long as the others, it manages to remain cool for 3-5 days and can store an impressive amount of food, drinks, and ice.
The design is stable and durable, and the cooler can take a beating.
It’s not in the top two spaces because it cools for half the duration as the other coolers on the market, but it’s much, much cheaper.
The Igloo STX is great for people who want a simple, robust cooler that will cool for a decent time period for camping, tailgating, an overnight boat trip, or just for a day at the beach.
- 54 Quart cooler with 30-40% thicker outside body
- Cooler Riser Technology
- Stainless steel hinges, latches and lid straps. Exterior Dimensions ( L x W...
- Bolt-through comfort grip handles
- Threaded drain plug with stainless steel tether
Last update on 2024-11-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
5. ORCA BW040ORCORCA Cooler, White, 40-Quart
Key Points at a Glance
- White
- Has No-Slip Rubber Feet
- Includes an Attached Cloth Basket
- Made in the USA
- Comes with a Lifetime Warranty
- Nylon and Rubber Handles
- Simple
- Durable
- Internal Drain Included
Dimensions and Specs
- Retains Internal Temperature for 7-10 Days
- Weighs 27 lbs.
- Holds 40 Quarts
- Product Dimensions: 36 x 19 x 17 in.
The Details
The ORCA BW040ORCORCA Cooler, 40-Quart is a sturdy but simplistic cooler designed to keep food and drinks cold for up to 7-10 days in average temperatures and 4-5 days in hotter climates.
It only comes in white, but that’s fine because white looks by far the best with these coolers. The ORCA doesn’t have wheels, but it does have rubber feet, so it’s a good choice for boaters and those who will be dealing with coolers sliding around.
Empty, the ORCA ice chest weighs 27 lbs. and is capable of holding 40 qts. of material. Each ORCA cooler is made in the United States States, and the full product dimensions are 36 x 19 x 17 in.
The ORCA BW040ORCORCA comes with a manufacturer’s lifetime warranty, meaning the company will replace the cooler if it breaks down at any time during regular use.
The lid closes using two heavy duty rubber straps that look like ORCA tails, which is a nice design touch. There are handles on either side made of nylon and rubber for easy carrying, and there is a small cloth basket that hangs off of the back of the cooler for the storage of other items like chips or opened bottles.
The Bottom Line
The ORCA 40 qt cooler is yet another excellent ice chest that will serve many users reliably for many years to come. And it’s covered under a Lifetime warranty, positioning it up with the Pelican Elite cooler. This will be the last cooler you ever buy, which is a pretty compelling purchase argument!
The balance of build quality, feature set, cooling duration, warranty, and price point positioned the ORCA 40 qt cooler as our top choice. It’s hard to beat that lifetime warranty, especially given the price point this cooler is positioned at. For this reason, the ORCA 40 qt cooler is the best ice chest available.
- Integrated insulation for maximum Ice/cold retention and Freshness of your...
- This are outdoor-kitchen-accessories
- This is manufactured in United States
- 100% USA Made, Lifetime Warranty
- Lid Gasket to ensure a perfect seal
Last update on 2024-11-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
6. YETI Tundra 45 Cooler
Basic Features
- Comes in Six Colors
- Designs Can Represent Nine Colleges
- Has 3 in. of Permafrost Insulation
- Rotomolded
- Bear Resistant
- Durable
- Non-Slip Feet
- Includes a Dry Goods Basket
- Covered under a 5-year warranty
Dimensions and Specs
- Retains Temperature for 7-10 Days
- Weighs 25 lbs. Empty
- Holds 25 Quarts
- Product Dimensions: 26 x 15.5 x 16 in.
The Details
YETI is probably the brand name when it comes to heavy-duty coolers. They tend to carry a premium price based on their name. Are their offerings worth the price?
The YETI Tundra 45 Cooler has a slightly misleading name, as it holds roughly 37 qts., not 45. That translates into about 26 cans of beer or soda at the standard ice:liquid ratio.
The interior is capable of keeping food and drinks cool for up to 7-10 days in regular conditions and 4-5 days in hotter climates, which is pretty standard among these coolers. The interior possesses 3 in. of Permafrost insulation and features an internal plug for easy draining.
The YETI 45 comes in six colors: white, tan, blue, charcoal, pink, and seafoam green. Interested individuals can also purchase designs that represent nine universities in the United States. Our advice: stick with white.
The exterior is certified to be bear resistant and is made of rotomolded, high-density plastic. The overall product is sturdy and comes with non-slip gripping rubber feet that are of the manufacturer’s own design. The YETI 45 is extremely easy to open, featuring two heavy duty rubber straps that snap open and closed while keeping the lid sealed.
The product is not wheeled but does have nylon and plastic handles for easy carrying. A dry goods basket comes standard with each purchase, and additional baskets are available for purchase.
Last update on 2024-11-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Bottom Line
Like the Pelican Elite, the biggest drawback with the YETI 45 is the price. Many individuals won’t find it worthwhile to pay a significant sum for a 37 qt. Cooler when there are larger, less expensive models that are just as effective or even more so.
That said, if you like the idea of the YETI brand and are ok with the price point, this is an outstanding cooler. It’s extremely robust, works very well, and keeps everything cold as ice.
However, in the end we feel that the YETI brand is not worth the price upgrade, and some of the lesser-known names are offering equal products with better warranties.
- The YETI Tundra 45 combines versatility with durability with a capacity of...
- Ice stays ice thanks to up to 3 inches of PermaFrost Insulation and an...
- The Rotomolded Construction makes the Tundra armored to the core and...
- All Tundra coolers feature T-Rex Lid Latches constructed of heavy-duty...
- The Tundra 45 dimensions are 25 3/4 in long x 16 1/8 in wide x 15 3/8 in...
Last update on 2024-11-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Conclusion
A cooler or ice chest is an essential part of any outing, and needs to work as designed to ensure everyone has the food and drink they need.
All of the coolers on this list are excellent, and any one of them will do a great job. When considering capacity, cooling duration, price, and warranty, we found that the ORCA 40 qt cooler is the best ice chest available, followed by the Driftsun 75 qt cooler for those looking for greater capacity. The Igloo STX cooler is an excellent budget choice, though its cooling capacity is significnatly reduced compared to the top choices.
So, grab a cooler, find some friends, and enjoy the weather!
Last update on 2024-11-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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