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10 Best Coleman Coolers
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Buying Guide for the Best Coleman Coolers
When choosing a cooler (like those made by Coleman), it's important to think about how and where you'll be using it. Coolers come in many types and sizes, so consider your main activities—such as camping, road trips, beach days, or backyard gatherings—and imagine the number of people you'll need to serve and how long you'll need to keep your items cold. By understanding your needs, you'll be able to pick features that matter to you most.Capacity (in quarts or liters)Capacity tells you how much the cooler can hold, usually measured in quarts or liters. This spec is crucial because it directly affects how much food and drink you can bring with you. Smaller coolers (about 16-30 quarts) are great for solo trips or quick outings, medium coolers (30-50 quarts) work well for small groups or day trips, and larger coolers (50+ quarts) are suited for bigger groups or longer adventures. To pick the right size, consider both the number of people and how long you'll be out. It’s better to have a slightly larger cooler than you think you'll need to avoid running out of space.
Ice Retention TimeIce retention refers to how long the cooler can keep ice frozen or keep its contents cold. Manufacturers usually estimate this in days. Basic coolers may keep ice only for a day or two, while premium models can retain ice for up to a week. If you’ll be out for just a day, shorter retention is fine. For camping trips or extended outings without easy access to more ice, choose a cooler with a higher retention time. Your need for ice retention will mostly depend on trip duration and outside temperatures.
Portability (Weight and Handles/Wheels)Portability involves both the weight of the cooler (especially when full) and its features like handles or wheels that make it easier to move. Lightweight coolers without wheels are fine for short walks or smaller loads, while heavy-duty coolers with sturdy handles and sometimes wheels help with bigger or heavier loads. If you expect to carry the cooler on your own or over uneven ground, comfortable handles are essential. For longer distances or heavier coolers, wheels make transportation much easier.
Durability and MaterialThe material tells you how tough the cooler is and how well it can stand up to the outdoors. Most coolers are made from plastic, but the thickness and quality vary. Cheaper models might use thinner plastic and basic lids, while tough ones have strong walls, reinforced corners, or are even rotomolded for extra strength. If you're using your cooler for rough trips—like camping in the wild or fishing—aim for higher durability. For casual, infrequent use like picnics, a standard cooler will do just fine.
Drainage SystemThe drainage system (typically a plug or spout at the bottom of the cooler) makes it easier to get rid of melted ice without having to tip the cooler over. Some have simple plugs, while others have leak-resistant or easy-flow systems. If you’ll need to empty your cooler frequently or don’t want to strain yourself lifting a heavy cooler, a good drainage system is worth considering. It's particularly helpful for large coolers that are too heavy to lift easily.
Lid Design and AccessibilityThe lid type impacts how easy it is to grab items or add more ice without losing much cold air. Some coolers have basic snap-shut lids, while others feature easy-lift designs, split compartments, or even built-in cup holders. For frequent use, look for a lid that’s quick to open and close, and consider whether you’ll appreciate extras like cup holders or trays for keeping small items handy. Your choice should match how often you'll access the cooler and what extras you’d find useful.