10 Best Outdoor Coolers 2025 in the United States

The RTIC Ultra-Light 32 Quart Cooler is a solid choice if you're looking for a portable and durable outdoor cooler that doesn't weigh you down. Its standout feature is being over 30% lighter than traditional rotomolded coolers, making it easier to carry for activities like camping, beach outings, or fishing trips. It holds up to 32 quarts, which fits about 48 cans and 30 pounds of ice—enough for small to medium gatherings. The 2.5 inches of closed-cell foam insulation help keep ice frozen for a long time, so your drinks and food stay cold throughout the day.

Made from polypropylene, it’s tough enough to handle outdoor roughness and even doubles as a bench or tabletop, which adds to its versatility. Portability is enhanced by its manageable 14.7-pound weight, so one person can comfortably carry it. It also includes a drain plug for easy cleaning. On the downside, while it offers good ice retention, it may not keep ice frozen as long as heavier, fully rotomolded coolers designed specifically for extended trips.

The size is moderate—good for day trips but might be small for larger groups or longer adventures. It requires hand washing, which is common but worth noting for cleanup. If you want a cooler that balances portability with solid performance and do not require extreme long-term ice retention, this RTIC Ultra-Light model is a practical and reliable option.

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.

The YETI Tundra 35 cooler is a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts needing a balance between capacity and portability. It can comfortably hold about 20 cans with enough ice to keep everything cold, thanks to its thick 3-inch PermaFrost insulation and FatWall design. This means ice stays frozen for a long time, ideal for camping or day trips. Durability is a strong point here—the cooler uses tough rotomolded plastic construction that makes it nearly indestructible and even certified bear-resistant, so it’s great for rugged environments.

The T-Rex lid latches are built with heavy-duty rubber to prevent breakage, which means fewer worries about malfunctioning parts on your adventures. In terms of size and weight, it’s fairly portable at 20 pounds and sized so one person can carry it comfortably. However, it might be a bit heavy when fully loaded, which is something to consider if you plan long hikes. One minor downside is that it’s made of plastic, so it requires hand washing and careful cleaning. The cooler also comes with a dry goods basket for organizing items separately.

If you want a cooler that combines excellent insulation, toughness, and a decent size, the YETI Tundra 35 is a reliable pick, especially for those who need a cooler that will last many seasons and handle rough conditions well.