If you’re looking for the perfect cooler for a road trip, it’s important to consider some key factors before making your purchase. You'll need something that can keep your food and drinks cold for long periods of time, fit your budget, and be easy to transport. With so many different options available, it can be overwhelming, but the right cooler can make all the difference.
One factor to consider is size; how much food and drink do you need to take with you and how much space do you have in your vehicle? Another factor is insulation; do you need a cooler made of a specific insulation material to best suit your needs? Also, you may want to consider durability and weight; do you need something heavy duty that can withstand the wear and tear of a long road trip, or something lightweight and easily portable?
To make your decision easier, ask yourself questions like “What is the maximum amount of food and drink that I need to keep cold?”, “How long do I need the cooler to keep everything cold for?” and “What is my budget for a cooler?” These questions can help you find a cooler that fits your specific needs and budget. Additionally, you may want to read reviews and compare different models online to get an idea of what other travelers are using and recommend.
A good cooler can be a game-changer for a road trip. With the right size, insulation, durability, and weight, you can keep your food and drinks cold for as long as necessary, without worrying about spoilage or melted ice. Keep these factors in mind and do your research to find the best cooler for your upcoming road trip.
10 Best Cooler For Road Trips
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Ideal for keeping food and drinks cold on-the-go during outdoor activities like picnics, camping, and road trips.
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The product is ideal for keeping food and drinks hot or cold while traveling or going on outdoor picnics.
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Ideal for keeping food and drinks cold on outdoor activities like camping, picnics, and tailgating.
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The product is ideal for keeping food and drinks cold while on the go with its lightweight and leak-proof design.
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This product is ideal for keeping food and drinks cold while on the go, such as during road trips and camping.
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This product is ideal as a large, leakproof, and insulated cooler bag for travel, camping, beach, work, or construction.
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This product is ideal for keeping food and drinks cold while on road trips, fishing trips, or trucking.
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Ideal for keeping food and beverages cold on-the-go, with a spacious interior and advanced insulation technology.
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Ideal for keeping food and drinks cool during travel, fishing, trucking, road trips with its adjustable shoulder strap and cord storage.
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This product is ideal for keeping food and drinks cool or warm while traveling in a car, camping or on road trips.
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1. Clevermade Collapsible Cooler – The Ultimate Portable Companion
Introducing the structured and collapsible cooler, a versatile and convenient solution for all your beverage and meal transportation needs. Designed with a built-in patented SnapHinge, this ice chest opens and closes with ease, and stays open even when empty, providing you with a hassle-free experience.
This sturdy soft-sided cooler is collapsible, making it easy to store when not in use. Simply pop it up when you need to fill it with your meal and beverage essentials and collapse it back down when you're done. Its compact size allows you to store it just about anywhere, making it perfect for those with limited storage space.
This versatile cooler is the perfect beach bag for toting snacks and drinks for a day in the sun, bringing lunch into work, grocery shopping, or as a travel cooler for a road trip with family. With a weight capacity of 55lbs. and room for 50 cans, there's enough space for all your essentials.
The cooler comes with integrated bottle opener, eliminating the need for extra tools. The front zippered pouch is perfect for storing valuables like keys, phones, or wallets. Plus, the side handles and padded top handle make toting a breeze, providing you with comfort and ease of transport.
Measuring 18.25" L x 12.25" W x 12" H and weighing 2.25 lbs. when empty, this cooler is lightweight and easy to carry. Its sturdy construction ensures that it will last for years to come, making it a valuable investment for anyone who is always on-the-go.
2. Lebogner's Insulated Travel Trunk Cooler And Organizer
Introducing the Insulated Car Console Organizer – the perfect solution to keep your car organized for a comfortable and enjoyable ride. This must-have accessory allows you to place all your belongings in an organized manner, making it easy to access them throughout the day.
The Car Console Organizer measures 16” long, 12” wide, and 12” high, making it spacious enough to accommodate all your essentials. The organizer is made to a very high standard, giving it a sleek look and a long life. When not in use, it can be easily folded flat for convenient storage.
The heavy insulated walls of the organizer make it an ideal cooler tote, keeping your freezer and cooler items cold for hours. Its easy-to-clean lining and big storage section make it perfect for storing your food, keeping it cold or warm during your trip. The organizer also boasts three outside mesh pockets to store smaller items. The top zippered cover ensures that your stuff stays cold or warm.
This car console organizer is designed to be used anywhere in the car, whether it's for outdoor vacations, picnics, grocery shopping, or simply organizing your driving necessities. You can place it in the front of the car to keep your essentials close at hand, or you can bring it to the back seat to store your children's toys, food, and snacks within easy reach. It's also great for use as a trunk organizer.
With its both sides carry handles, the Car Console Organizer is easy and convenient to use, making it a perfect accessory for any car owner. You can buy it with confidence, as this top-quality car console organizer comes with a 100% lifetime money-back guarantee.
3. Igloo Heavy-Duty 25 Qt Bmx Ice Chest Cooler With Cool Riser Technology
This heavy-duty cooler is built to last with its blow-molded construction and reinforced base, providing increased strength and protection. Despite its durable build, it remains lightweight and boasts a proven 4-5 day ice retention capacity, making it the perfect companion for long trips.
The cooler is also designed to withstand the harsh rays of the sun, thanks to the UV inhibitors that protect it from sun damage, ensuring extended life. Rust-resistant, stainless-steel hinge rods and hardware provide extended performance, while rubberized T-grip latches keep the lid secure, even during bumpy rides.
The MaxCold body with 20% thicker foam and insulated lid provide advanced cooling performance and up to 4-day ice retention, guaranteeing that your food and drinks stay fresh. The Cool Riser Technology molded base elevates the cooler away from hot surfaces, improving cooling performance.
For comfortable and easy transportation, the cooler is equipped with a comfort grip, 3-point-grab handle that allows for easy one-handed carrying. Integrated tie-down loops make it easy to secure the cooler during transport, ensuring it remains in place.
The cooler also comes with an integrated ruler on the lid that easily estimates your catch, making it a great companion for fishing trips. To ensure the longevity of the product, it is recommended to hand wash it.
4. Tourit Cooler Backpack 30 Cans Lightweight Insulated Backpack Cooler Leak-Proof
Introducing the Insulated Cooler Backpack, a versatile and practical backpack designed to keep food and drinks fresh for up to 16 hours. With its innovative insulation material and leak-proof liner, this backpack guarantees anti-leaking and temperature control, making it the perfect companion for picnics, road trips, beach days, and more.
Measuring 13.0" x 7.5" x 17" / 33cm x 19cm x 43cm (L x W x H) and weighing only 1.1 pounds / 500g, this backpack boasts a large capacity that can hold up to 30 cans (330ml). With plenty of room for all your necessities, you can easily pack everything you need for a day out.
The Insulated Cooler Backpack features multiple pockets for added convenience, including a roomy storage compartment, two side mesh pockets, two large front zipper pockets for utensils, a zipper pocket on the lid, a mesh pocket, and a beer opener on the strap. With its many pockets, you can keep everything organized and within easy reach.
Crafted from waterproof and durable fabric, this backpack is both light and sturdy, making it the best lightweight backpack with a cooler for work, travel, and outdoor activities. Plus, its stylish design means it can also be used as a lunch backpack or daily pack, making it a great gift for both men and women.
5. Koolatron Car Cooler: Portable Power For Adventures.
The Koolatron portable cooler is a must-have for anyone on the go. This advanced cooler boasts industry-leading cold retention, keeping ice frozen for an impressive 3.3 days even when unpowered. This is a full day longer than many name-brand competitors, making it an excellent choice for those who require reliable cooling for extended periods of time.
With a 24-liter (26 quart) capacity, this compact cooler can hold up to 31 standard soft drink cans and is tall enough to accommodate 2L bottles standing upright. Its advanced insulation and tightly locking lid ensure that your refreshments stay cold and fresh for longer periods of time.
The Koolatron cooler plugs into any 12V outlet, making it an ideal choice for use on the go in cars, trucks, or boats. It also features AC compatibility (110V adapter sold separately) for indoor use. This powerful thermoelectric cooler is efficient and iceless, using advanced technology to cool to 36°F (22°C) below the surrounding temperature.
Koolatron is a proud Canadian company that has been manufacturing industry-leading 12V coolers in North America for over 30 years. Their commitment to quality and innovation is evident in the design and performance of this portable cooler.
6. Opux Travel Cooler: Collapsible, Leakproof, Large Capacity.
Looking for a durable and functional lunch pail to take on the go? Look no further than this versatile travel cooler bag! Perfect for road trips, picnics, or taking to the office or school, this lunch pail is designed to keep your food and beverages at the perfect temperature.
One of the standout features of this lunch pail is its thermal insulated and leakproof design. Equipped with a soft PEVA liner that is heat-sealed and leakproof, this small travel cooler bag is ideal for transporting any food and beverage. Its insulated lining will keep your beverage cold or your food hot/warm, making this a versatile bag for carrying cold beverages to the beach or lunch to your office. Plus, you can fill it with ice to keep your beverage ice cold during game days!
This lunch pail is also designed with functionality and convenience in mind. The hook-and-loop fastener top flap makes it easy and convenient to access your meals and snacks inside the cooler bag, while the adjustable shoulder strap gives you the flexibility to wear this across your chest if you prefer not to carry it by hand. And with its spacious interior, it can fit up to 8 standard size water bottles, 16 cans, or enough room to pack food for the entire family!
When it comes to quality and durability, this lunch pail delivers. Made with high-quality 600D polyester fabric and reinforced zippers, it is built to last. The soft, leakproof lining is also easy to clean – simply wipe it down with a wet cloth and the bag is good as new. And when you're not using it, the mini cooler bag is soft and collapsible, making it convenient to compress and store.
With dimensions of 12 x 7 x 8.5 inches (L x W x H), this lunch pail is the perfect size for taking on the go. It can hold up to 16 cans, and is available in six stylish colors. So whether you're packing lunch for work or heading out on a road trip, this travel cooler bag is the perfect choice for keeping your food and beverages at the perfect temperature.
7. Koolatron Portable Car Fridge: Iceless & Convenient.
Introducing the 13 L (14 qt) Capacity Cooler, a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts and travelers who require a reliable and efficient cooling solution. This soft-sided cooler bag boasts a spacious 13 liter (14 quart) capacity, which can hold up to 20 standard soft drink cans. Moreover, this cooler bag can be easily collapsed when empty, allowing for hassle-free and space-saving storage.
This cooler bag has been designed with easy organization in mind, featuring multiple pockets on the exterior and a built-in cord storage compartment. This practical feature enables users to organize and store their belongings without taking up valuable cooler space.
Traveling with this cooler bag is a breeze due to its lightweight design and practical features. The durable fabric exterior ensures that it can withstand the rigors of outdoor activities, while the easy-to-clean interior makes maintenance a breeze. Dual carry handles and an adjustable shoulder strap allow for convenient and comfortable transport.
The 13 L (14 qt) Capacity Cooler is an excellent travel solution, as it comes equipped with a 12V DC adapter for use on the go in your car, truck, or boat. Additionally, it is compatible with AC power (adapter sold separately) for indoor use.
The cooler bag utilizes innovative and efficient iceless thermoelectric technology and a brushless fan motor to efficiently cool to 40°F (22°C) below the surrounding temperature. The technology efficiently cools using less power than your vehicle’s tail light, making it an eco-friendly choice.
8. The Ultimate Chill: Arctic Titan Cooler
The TITAN DEEP FREEZE ZIPPERLESS HARDBODY COOLER is the perfect addition to any outdoor adventure. With its patented "flip-open" Zipperless lid, you can easily access your food and drinks without any hassle. This cooler can keep ice for up to two days and holds up to 30 cans, making it the perfect companion for travel, tailgates, picnics, and more.
One of the standout features of this cooler is its Deep Freeze Performance Insulation with an integrated radiant heat barrier. This means that your food and beverages will stay cold for longer, even in hot weather. The removable HardBody liner with SmartShelf is another great feature that allows you to separate hard items from soft, ensuring that your sandwiches and other soft foods don't get crushed. The SmartShelf is easy to remove, giving you extra space when you need it.
Designed with convenience and usability in mind, this cooler features an adjustable Backsaver shoulder strap with an anti-slip shoulder pad for carrying comfort. The rugged exterior material is water- and stain-repellent, making it easy to wipe clean. Speaking of cleaning, the TITAN DEEP FREEZE ZIPPERLESS HARDBODY COOLER is built to last, no matter how dirty it gets. Most food residues on the interior and exterior of the cooler can be wiped clean with mild soapy water and a damp cloth. The manufacturer recommends air-drying to protect the cooler insulation.
9. Koolatron 12v Cooler: Iceless & Portable!
Introducing the Soft-Sided Cooler Bag, a 25.3 L (26.7 qt) capacity cooler that provides ample space to hold up to 23 standard soft drink cans. When empty, this cooler bag conveniently collapses for easy and space-saving storage.
Designed with practicality in mind, this cooler features multiple pockets on the exterior and a built-in cord storage compartment that allows for easy organization and storage of your belongings without sacrificing valuable cooler space.
When on the go, the Soft-Sided Cooler Bag is the perfect travel solution. Its durable fabric exterior is easy to clean and maintain, while its dual carry handles and adjustable shoulder strap provide comfort and ease of transportation.
This electric cooler is compatible with any 12V DC outlet, making it perfect for use in cars, trucks, or boats. It can also be used indoors with AC power (adapter sold separately). With iceless thermoelectric technology and brushless fan motor, this cooler efficiently cools to 40°F (22°C) below the surrounding temperature, while using less power than your vehicle's tail light.
10. Koolatron Rollin' Cooler – Perfect For Road Trips!
The 34 L (36 qt) Rolling Cooler is a versatile and spacious cooler/warmer that caters to all your storage needs. With a capacity of 34 liters (36 quarts), it can accommodate up to 57 standard soft drink cans, making it ideal for gatherings, picnics, road trips, and camping.
The cooler/warmer boasts of a convenient wheeled design that allows for easy transportation from your vehicle to your campsite, boat, or cottage. The durable wheels and sturdy tow handle provide stability and ease of movement on different terrains.
The Thermoelectric cooler/warmer is powered by a 12V DC adapter that plugs into any 12V outlet in your car, truck, or boat. It also features an AC power compatibility (110V adapter sold separately) for indoor use.
The cooler/warmer is equipped with dual-function thermoelectric technology that efficiently cools to 40°F (22°C) below the surrounding temperature or warms to 135°F (57°C). This feature makes it suitable for storing cold beverages, snacks, and food items, as well as keeping your meals warm while on the go.
Proudly Canadian, Koolatron is a reputable brand that has been manufacturing industry-leading 12V coolers in North America for over 30 years. This guarantees quality and reliability, making the 34 L (36 qt) Rolling Cooler a sound investment for all your cooling and heating needs.
Best Cooler For Road Trips FAQs
Are soft-sided or hard-sided coolers better for road trips?
When it comes to choosing between soft-sided and hard-sided coolers for road trips, it largely depends on your personal preferences and needs. Both types of coolers have their own advantages and disadvantages.
Soft-sided coolers are lightweight and easy to carry, making them ideal for road trips. They are also more flexible and can be easily packed into tight spaces, such as the trunk of a car or the backseat. They are also generally less expensive than hard-sided coolers. However, they do not provide as much insulation as hard-sided coolers and may not keep your food and drinks cold for as long.
On the other hand, hard-sided coolers are more rugged and durable than soft-sided coolers. They provide better insulation and can keep your food and drinks cold for several days. They are also more secure and can protect your food and drinks from animals or other potential hazards. However, they are heavier and bulkier than soft-sided coolers, which can make them difficult to transport on road trips.
Ultimately, the choice between soft-sided and hard-sided coolers for road trips comes down to your personal needs and preferences. If you value portability and affordability, a soft-sided cooler may be the better choice. If you prioritize durability, insulation, and security, a hard-sided cooler may be the better option.
Are there any coolers for road trips that are designed to fit in small cars or SUVs?
Yes, there are several coolers available in the market designed to fit in small cars or SUVs. These coolers are perfect for road trips where space is limited. One popular option is the Igloo MaxCold Cooler. This cooler has a compact design and can hold up to 100 cans. It also has a telescoping handle and wheels for easy transport. Another option is the Coleman 16-Can Soft Cooler with Hard Liner. This cooler is designed to fit in tight spaces and has a removable hard liner for easy cleaning. It also has adjustable shoulder straps for easy carrying. Yet another option is the Yeti Hopper Backflip 24. This cooler has a backpack design and can hold up to 20 cans. It also has a waterproof and leakproof design, making it perfect for outdoor adventures. Overall, there are several coolers available that are perfect for road trips in small cars or SUVs, so finding one that fits your needs should not be a problem.
How do I clean and maintain my cooler after a road trip?
Cleaning and maintaining your cooler after a road trip is important to ensure that it functions properly and lasts for a long time. To begin, empty the cooler of any remaining ice or water and dispose of any leftover food or drinks. Then, use a mild soap and warm water to clean the inside and outside of the cooler, including the lid and seal. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and allow the cooler to air dry completely before storing it.
For tough stains or odors, you can use a mixture of baking soda and water or vinegar and water to clean the cooler. Simply mix the solution and use a sponge or cloth to scrub the affected areas before rinsing with clean water.
To maintain your cooler, it's important to store it in a cool, dry place and avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight. Regularly check the seal to ensure that it's functioning properly and replace it if necessary. Additionally, lubricate the hinges and latches with a silicone-based lubricant to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation. By following these simple steps, you can keep your cooler clean and well-maintained, ensuring that it's ready for your next road trip.
How long can a cooler keep food and drinks cold on a road trip?
The duration that a cooler can keep food and drinks cold on a road trip depends on various factors. The type of cooler, the outside temperature, and the amount and type of ice or cooling packs used are some factors that can affect the cooling duration.
Generally, a high-quality cooler packed with enough ice or cooling packs can keep contents cold for up to five days or more. However, if the cooler is frequently opened and closed or exposed to high temperatures, the cooling duration may be shorter.
It is also important to note that perishable items such as meat and dairy products should be kept at a temperature below 40°F (4°C) to prevent bacterial growth and foodborne illnesses. Therefore, it is recommended to use a thermometer to monitor the temperature inside the cooler and add more ice or cooling packs as needed to maintain a safe temperature.
In summary, a cooler can keep food and drinks cold on a road trip for up to five days or more, depending on various factors such as the type of cooler, outside temperature, and amount and type of ice or cooling packs used.
How much should I expect to spend on a high-quality cooler for a road trip?
The cost of a high-quality cooler for a road trip can vary depending on several factors such as size, brand, and features. Generally, you can expect to spend anywhere from $100 to $500 on a cooler that is durable enough to withstand the rigors of a road trip. If you are planning a longer trip or will be traveling to areas with high temperatures, investing in a higher-end cooler with thicker insulation and better ice retention may be worth the extra cost.
It's important to consider your specific needs when choosing a cooler for your road trip. Think about how much food and drinks you will need to store, how long you will be on the road, and what type of weather conditions you will encounter. Additionally, it's always a good idea to read reviews and do research on different brands and models to ensure that you are making an informed decision and getting the most value for your money.
What are some of the best coolers for road trips with large families or groups?
When it comes to road trips with large families or groups, having a reliable cooler to store food and drinks is essential. There are several great coolers on the market that are perfect for this purpose.
One option is the Coleman Steel Belted Cooler, which can hold up to 84 cans and keep items cold for up to four days. It also has durable steel construction and a rust-resistant exterior.
Another great choice is the Igloo MaxCold Cooler, which has a capacity of 100 quarts and can keep items cold for up to five days. It also has a stain and odor-resistant liner, and a reinforced swing-up handle for easy transport.
For those looking for a more portable option, the Yeti Hopper BackFlip 24 is a great choice. It has a capacity of 20 cans and can keep items cold for up to three days. It also has a comfortable backpack design for easy carrying.
Overall, the best cooler for a road trip with a large family or group will depend on individual needs and preferences. However, these options are all reliable and efficient choices to consider.
What are the top features to look for in a cooler for road trips?
When it comes to choosing a cooler for road trips, there are certain features you should look for to ensure your food and drinks stay fresh and cold. Firstly, consider the size and capacity of the cooler. It should be spacious enough to store all the food and drinks you will need for the duration of your trip. A cooler with a good insulation system is also essential, as it will help to maintain the temperature inside the cooler and keep your items cold for longer periods of time.
Another important feature to look for is the durability of the cooler. Since it will be exposed to the outdoors and varying temperatures during your road trip, it should be made of sturdy materials that can withstand wear and tear. A cooler with multiple compartments and pockets is also useful for organizing your items and keeping them easily accessible.
In addition, consider the portability of the cooler. Look for one with sturdy handles or wheels to make it easy to transport from your car to your campsite or picnic area. Finally, a cooler that is easy to clean and maintain will make your life easier, especially on longer trips.
What is the best way to pack a cooler for a road trip?
When packing a cooler for a road trip, there are several things to keep in mind to ensure that your food and drinks stay fresh and safe to consume. Firstly, make sure that the cooler is clean and dry before you start packing. Secondly, consider using ice packs instead of ice cubes, as they will keep your food and drinks cold without the risk of them getting waterlogged. When packing the cooler, start with the heaviest items at the bottom, such as drinks and large containers, and then layer on top with lighter items like sandwiches and snacks. Be sure to pack raw meats and cooked foods separately and use airtight containers to prevent any spills or leaks. Lastly, try to keep the cooler out of direct sunlight and replenish the ice packs as needed to maintain a consistent temperature. By following these tips, you can ensure that your cooler is packed efficiently and your road trip meals are enjoyable.
What is the ideal size for a cooler for a road trip?
The ideal size for a cooler for a road trip depends on a few factors, such as the number of people going on the trip, the duration of the trip, and the types of food and drinks that will be stored in the cooler. Generally, a cooler that can hold around 30-40 quarts is a good size for a road trip. This should be able to accommodate enough food and drinks for a small group of people for a few days. If the trip is longer or there are more people, a larger cooler may be necessary. It's also important to consider the size of the cooler in relation to the space available in the vehicle and how easy it will be to transport. Additionally, features like insulation, durability, and ease of cleaning should also be taken into account when choosing the ideal size for a cooler for a road trip.
Which cooler brands are known to be the best for keeping food and drinks cold on road trips?
When it comes to keeping food and drinks cold on road trips, there are several cooler brands that are known to be the best. Yeti is considered one of the top brands due to its durable and high-performance coolers that can keep ice frozen for days. Another popular brand is Coleman, which offers a variety of affordable coolers that are perfect for shorter trips. Igloo is also a well-known brand that offers a range of coolers with various sizes and features, including wheels and drink holders. Pelican is another brand that is known for its rugged and durable coolers, which can withstand harsh conditions and keep ice for days. Additionally, Engel and Grizzly are two other brands that offer high-quality coolers with excellent ice retention capabilities. Ultimately, the best cooler brand for a road trip depends on your specific needs, such as the length of the trip, the amount of food and drinks you plan to bring, and your budget.