If you’re looking for a way to keep your drinks and snacks cold during a long road trip, then coolers for road trips could be just what you need. These handy coolers are designed to be portable and durable, with the ability to keep all kinds of items chilled and fresh for hours on end.
Before you buy a cooler for your road trip, there are a few factors you’ll need to consider. First and foremost is size – you’ll want a cooler that’s big enough to hold all the food and drink you need for your trip, but not so large that it becomes unwieldy. You should also think about insulation capabilities, as well as the style and design of the cooler itself.
If you’re not sure which cooler is right for you, here are some questions to ask yourself: Do you prefer hard or soft-sided coolers? Are you looking for a cooler that’s easy to carry, or one that can keep your items ice-cold for multiple days? Would you like to have additional features like built-in cup holders or a built-in bottle opener? By considering these factors, you’ll be able to find the perfect cooler to make your next road trip an absolute breeze.
Whether you’re planning a weekend trip or a longer adventure, having a reliable cooler is a must-have for any road trip. With so many options available on the market, taking the time to choose the right one can make all the difference in your trip’s success. Consider your needs, ask the right questions, and get ready to enjoy fresh and cool refreshments no matter where your journey takes you.
10 Best Coolers For Road Trips
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The product is ideal for keeping food and drinks cold while on-the-go or during outdoor activities.
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The product is ideal for keeping food and drinks cold on-the-go, from picnics to camping trips.
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The product is ideal for keeping food and drinks at the desired temperature while on the go, such as during road trips and camping.
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Ideal for keeping food and drinks cold while on the go, perfect for road trips, trucking, fishing, and travel.
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Organizing car essentials for both children and adults, with cup holder tray, side pockets, and cooler compartment.
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Ideal for keeping food and drinks cool on camping trips, tailgating, road trips, and grocery shopping.
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Ideal for keeping food and drinks cold or frozen while on the go, including camping trips, road trips, and outdoor activities.
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This product is ideal for keeping items cold and secure during outdoor activities like camping, hunting, and road trips.
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The product is ideal for keeping food and drinks cool while on the go, whether for lunch, shopping, camping, or road trips.
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It is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, sports, picnics, fishing, and beach trips that require a cooler.
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1. Yeti Roadie 24 Cooler, Charcoal
Introducing the Roadie 24, a cooler that is 10% lighter and has 20% more storage capacity than its predecessor, the Roadie 20. This cooler also boasts a 30% better thermal performance, making it the perfect companion for all your outdoor adventures. With its taller build, it can now even accommodate a standard bottle of wine or a 2-liter bottle upright, making it more versatile than ever before. The ROTOMOLDED CONSTRUCTION of this cooler has been evolved to be thinner and lighter-weight for easier transport, while still being incredibly tough. Additionally, the QUICKLATCH feature is flexible, simple, and built for quick, one-handed cooler access. Whether you're looking to store 18 cans with a 2:1 ice-to-can ratio or 24 pounds of ice, the Roadie 24 has got you covered. Measuring 16 1/2” L × 14 1/2”W × 17 1/2” H, it's the perfect size to fit behind the driver's or passenger's seat of a car, making it an ideal companion for all your outdoor trips.
- 10% lighter and 20% more storage capacity than Roadie 20
- 30% better thermal performance
- Taller build that can accommodate a standard bottle of wine or a 2-liter bottle upright
- ROTOMOLDED CONSTRUCTION is thinner and lighter-weight, yet incredibly tough
- QUICKLATCH feature is flexible, simple, and built for quick, one-handed cooler access
- Ideal size to fit behind the driver's or passenger's seat of a car
2. Yeti Hopper Flip 18 Portable Cooler, Navy
The Hopper Flip 18 is the perfect cooler for those who love outdoor activities. With its ColdCell Insulation, it can hold up to 16 cans plus ice, keeping them cold for an extended period. The HydroLok Zipper is 100% leakproof, ensuring that your drinks won't spill. The high-density fabric can withstand punctures, UV rays, and other hazards. The DryHide Shell is waterproof and abrasion-resistant, making it an excellent choice for hunters, fishermen, and boaters. The Hopper Flip 18 is also lightweight and easy to carry around, making it an ideal choice for those who are always on the go. Its dimensions are 15 2/3 inches long x 10 1/5 inches wide x 12 3/5 inches high, with an empty weight of only 5.1 lbs.
Overall, the Hopper Flip 18 is a great investment for anyone who loves the outdoors. Its excellent insulation, leakproof zipper, and durable construction make it a must-have for any outdoor activity. Whether you're spending the day in the tree stand, duck boat, or on the water, the Hopper Flip 18 has got you covered.
- Excellent insulation that can keep drinks cold for an extended period
- Leakproof zipper that prevents spills
- Durable construction that can withstand punctures, UV rays, and other hazards
- Waterproof and abrasion-resistant DryHide Shell
- Lightweight and easy to carry around
3. Koolatron 12v Portable Cooler & Warmer
The Portable Cooler with a 27-liter (29 quart) capacity is an efficient 12V powered cooler/warmer that provides ample room for all your needs, with space for up to 48 standard soft drink cans. This cooler is ideal for long trips or outdoor events that require a large food and beverage storage capacity.
The versatile two-way design of this unique cooler features a secure sliding door lock that allows it to function either as a classic ice chest-style cooler or as a portable front-opening mini refrigerator when placed on its side. This flexibility makes it an ideal choice for different types of occasions.
The cooler/warmer features dual-function thermoelectric technology that efficiently cools to 40°F (22°C) below the surrounding temperature or warms to 135°F (57°C). It also includes a 12V DC adapter for use in your car, truck, or boat; it can also be powered with AC power (110V adapter sold separately) for indoor use.
Koolatron, the manufacturer of this product, has been manufacturing industry-leading 12V coolers in North America for over 30 years. This cooler is proudly Canadian made, ensuring top-quality and durability for its users.
- Large storage capacity of up to 27 liters (29 quarts) to accommodate all your needs
- Versatile design allows it to function either as a classic ice chest-style cooler or as a portable front-opening mini refrigerator when placed on its side
- Efficient dual-function thermoelectric technology that cools to 40°F (22°C) below surrounding temperature or warms to 135°F (57°C)
- Includes a 12V DC adapter for use in your car, truck, or boat; can also be powered with AC power (110V adapter sold separately) for indoor use
- Proudly Canadian made ensuring top-quality and durability for its users
- – May require additional purchase of AC power (110V adapter) for indoor use
4. Koolatron 12v Cooler Bag – Portable & Convenient!
Looking for a practical travel solution for your next trip? Look no further than this 13 L (14 qt) Capacity Cooler! With a spacious 13 liter (14 quart) capacity, this soft-sided cooler bag can hold up to 20 standard soft drink cans, making it perfect for picnics, camping trips, or days out at the beach. And when you're done, it collapses for easy, space-saving storage.
But that's not all – this cooler is also designed for easy organization, with multiple pockets on the exterior and a built-in cord storage compartment that lets you organize and store your belongings without taking up valuable cooler space.
The durable fabric exterior and easy-to-clean interior make this cooler a breeze to maintain, while the dual carry handles and adjustable shoulder strap make it lightweight and easy to carry. And with the included 12V DC adapter, it plugs into any 12V outlet in your car, truck, or boat, making it perfect for use on the go. It's also compatible with AC power (adapter sold separately) for indoor use.
But what really sets this cooler apart is its iceless thermoelectric technology. With an efficient, reliable thermoelectric technology and brushless fan motor, it can cool to 40°F (22°C) below the surrounding temperature using less power than your vehicle's tail light. So you can keep your food and drinks cool without worrying about melting ice or draining your car's battery.
- Spacious 13 L (14 qt) capacity can hold up to 20 standard soft drink cans
- Multiple pockets on the exterior and built-in cord storage compartment for easy organization
- Durable fabric exterior and easy-to-clean interior for hassle-free maintenance
- Dual carry handles and adjustable shoulder strap for easy portability
- Plugs into any 12V outlet for use on the go, and compatible with AC power for indoor use
- Efficient, reliable thermoelectric technology and brushless fan motor can cool to 40°F (22°C) below surrounding temperature using less power than your vehicle's tail light
- – May not be as effective as traditional coolers in extremely hot temperatures
5. Carhop Organizer: Keep Essentials Within Reach
The Car Seat Organizer and Cooler is a versatile product that keeps driving and work essentials organized in the front and children entertained in the back. It is designed with a multipurpose inside compartment that can be used as a cooler or storage bin. However, it is not recommended for use with loose ice, so cold packs should be used for chilled storage.
This organizer has versatile pocket storage and convenient cup holders. Pockets on each side provide storage for car essentials, while the front compartment can convert from a car cup holder to an open storage bin. The side and top panels keep the organizer open and upright, and a seatbelt strap secures it to the seat. Its booster seat height makes it reachable for kids of all ages.
The Car Seat Organizer and Cooler has a portable design and durable construction. It features a removable shoulder strap for easy transport, folds down for storage, and is made of heavy-duty polyester. The weight limit is 15 lbs. This product is PATENTED and has been developed by High Road, a company based in Portland Maine, that has been producing problem-solving car organizers since 1990.
- Versatile inside compartment for storage or cooler
- Versatile pocket storage and convenient cup holders
- Sturdy, strong, and stable design
- Portable and durable construction
- – Not recommended for use with loose ice
6. Maelstrom 75-Can Collapsible Cooler: Your Ultimate Companion!
The Maelstrom Icy Hollow Soft sided cooler is a great option for those who need a larger capacity cooler that is easy to carry. With a weight of only 1.65 lbs, this cooler has an extra-large size that can hold up to 75 cans of your favorite drinks and 2-4 ice packs. You can also add 15 lbs. of ice to 60 cans for long-lasting coldness. This cooler is perfect for camping, hiking, picnicking, or a BBQ party, as it can easily pack a lot of food, fruits, beer, meat, or even seafood. It is large enough to carry all picnic essentials for the whole family. The capacity of this cooler is 18x12x13.8 inches, which can hold up to 13 gallons of ice and drinks.
The Maelstrom Ice Hollow Soft Sided Cooler Bags are durable and have double-stitched carry options. All pick-up points, the shoulder straps, and carry handles are reinforced, allowing this cooler bag to handle more weight than you'd prefer to carry. The top pull tab with Velcro opening design makes it easy to access your food without having to open the zipper around the whole top cover, keeping contents cool/warm longer. The ergonomic design with two different ways to carry, adjustable straps, and a carrying handle makes it easy to transport. An integrated bottle opener gives you quick access to pop open a bottle of beer. This cooler is versatile and suitable for all outdoor activities as an all-around soft-sided cooler for camping or road trips. It's also the perfect size for food delivery services and a great solution to transport groceries from the store or farmer's market to your kitchen at home.
- Large capacity
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Durable
- Easy access to food
- Suitable for all outdoor activities
- Can be used for food delivery services and transporting groceries
- Integrated bottle opener
7. F40c4tmp Portable Compressor Fridge: Freeze On-The-Go!
The F40C4TMP Portable Freezer for Car is a versatile 2-in-1 refrigerator and freezer that can be used to chill or freeze food and drinks. It eliminates the need for ice, making it a perfect choice for storing hard ice cream, frozen meat, cheese, and beverages. With a strong compressor, it takes only 15 minutes to cool from 77℉ to 32℉, making it an efficient and reliable option for road trips and outdoor activities.
This portable fridge comes with 3 levels of battery protection (Low, Mid, and High) to prevent the battery from draining and reopen automatically when the voltage is restored. It has a proven magnetic door design that keeps the cold inside and ensures efficient cooling. The car freezer also operates quietly at just 45 dB, ensuring it won't disturb your driving or rest.
With a 30-quart capacity, this portable refrigerator freezer has ample space to store your food and drinks. It has external dimensions of 22.68*12.60*15.51 inches and internal dimensions of 13.96*9.82*12.36 inches, which is sufficient for storing a gallon of milk upright. The partition divides the internal space into two areas, allowing you to store meat and vegetables separately.
The F40C4TMP Portable Freezer for Car is energy-efficient, consuming less than 1KWH every day, thanks to its two modes: Max (fast cooling) and Eco (Energy Saving). Moreover, it has anti-30°slip, making it suitable for use on bumpy roads. This 12v fridge runs great with 12/24V DC and 110-240 AC, and it can be connected to a portable power station. The temperature can be adjusted according to your different needs through the LCD panel.
F40C4TMP offers a 2-year warranty on this portable compressor fridge freezer, and it comes with 1 AC adapter, 1 DC cord, and 1 User manual. It is perfect for use in cars, vehicles, RVs, trucks, boats, camping, fishing, road trips, and outdoor activities.
- Efficient and reliable cooling, eliminating the need for ice
- 3 levels of battery protection to prevent draining
- Ample space for storing a gallon of milk upright and dividing internal space into two areas
- Energy-efficient with two modes: Max (fast cooling) and Eco (Energy Saving)
- Suitable for use on bumpy roads and can be connected to a portable power station
- Quiet operation and adjustable temperature
- – May not be suitable for those who require a larger storage capacity
8. Orca Insulated Hard Cooler – Lime, Padlock-Ready
This product features a durable and rugged roto-molded construction that ensures long-lasting use. It is designed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions and is ideal for camping, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
The integrated insulation of this product ensures maximum ice/cold retention. This means that your drinks and food items will stay fresh and cold for a longer period of time, even in hot weather conditions.
Furthermore, this product comes with a lifetime warranty that guarantees its quality and durability. You can be assured that you are investing in a product that will last for years to come.
The attached cargo net of this product allows for added storage. You can easily store and transport your camping gear, fishing equipment, or any other items that you need for your outdoor adventures.
- Durable and rugged roto-molded construction
- Integrated insulation for maximum ice/cold retention
- Lifetime warranty for quality and durability
- Attached cargo net for added storage
9. Clevermade Portable Cooler: The Ultimate On-The-Go Companion
The Structured Collapsible Cooler is the perfect ice chest for those who value convenience and versatility. Its built-in patented SnapHinge allows for easy opening and closing, even when empty. The cooler is collapsible, making it easy to store when not in use. When you're ready to use it, simply pop it up and fill it with your meal and beverage essentials.
This versatile cooler is perfect for a day at the beach, bringing lunch to work, grocery shopping, or as a travel cooler for a road trip with the family. The cooler comes with several accessories that make it even more convenient to use, including an integrated bottle opener and a front zippered pouch for extra storage of valuables. The cooler also features side handles, as well as a padded top handle, making it easy to tote around.
The cooler measures 18.25" L x 12.25" W x 12" H and weighs 2.25 lbs. when empty. It has a weight capacity of 55 lbs. and can hold up to 50 cans. Whether you're planning a beach day or a road trip, the Structured Collapsible Cooler is the perfect accessory to keep your food and beverages cool and fresh.
- Easy to open and close thanks to the built-in patented SnapHinge
- Collapsible design makes it easy to store when not in use
- Comes with several accessories for added convenience
- Versatile enough to use for a day at the beach, bringing lunch to work, grocery shopping, or as a travel cooler for a road trip with the family
- Large weight capacity and can hold up to 50 cans
10. Tourit Waterproof Soft Cooler: Ultimate Adventure Companion.
The TOURIT soft cooler is a high-quality cooler that is designed to keep your food and drinks cool for up to 3 days. It features a unique insulation system that consists of three layers that work together to ensure maximum cooling performance. The outer layer of the cooler is waterproof, ensuring that there is no sweat. The middle layer is made of high-density foam, while the interior is fully lined with a leak-proof material. This makes the cooler 100% leak-proof and impact-resistant, making it the perfect companion for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, tailgating, and picnics.
The soft-sided coolers are BPA-free, making them safe for use. The liner of the cooler is made from superior quality, competitive price material, ensuring that your food and drinks are always safe. The cooler is the perfect size for outdoor activities, with an exterior size of 15" x 10" x 13 1/5" (L x W x H) and an interior size of 12 4/5" x 7 9/10" x 9 9/10" (L x W x H). It has an empty weight of 1.70kg and can hold 20 cans plus ice.
The TOURIT soft cooler bag comes with three ways to carry. It has a detachable shoulder strap with pad, top handles, and two reinforced side grab-n-go handles. This makes it easy to carry the cooler hands-free on the shoulder for light loads, or use the top/side handles for heavy carry. The wide-mouth opening of the soft cooler insulated ensures easy access and visibility to your contents.
- The TOURIT soft cooler is designed to keep your food and drinks cool for up to 3 days.
- The cooler is 100% leak-proof and impact-resistant, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
- It is BPA-free, making it safe for use.
- The cooler is the perfect size for outdoor activities and can hold 20 cans plus ice.
- It comes with three ways to carry, making it easy to transport.
Best Coolers For Road Trips FAQs
Are there any coolers specifically designed for use in vehicles or for use during extended road trips?
Yes, there are coolers specifically designed for use in vehicles or for use during extended road trips. These coolers are often referred to as portable car coolers or travel coolers. They are designed to keep food and drinks cold while on the go, and they come in a variety of sizes and styles to fit different needs. Some of these coolers are powered by a car's 12-volt outlet, while others are powered by rechargeable batteries or even solar panels. They may also come with features such as built-in cup holders, shoulder straps for easy carrying, and even Bluetooth speakers. If you're planning a road trip or spending a lot of time in your vehicle, investing in a portable car cooler can be a great way to keep your food and drinks fresh and cool, and make your trip more enjoyable.
How do you clean and maintain a cooler after a road trip to ensure it's ready for your next adventure?
To ensure your cooler is ready for your next adventure after a road trip, it is important to clean and maintain it properly. Start by removing all the food, drinks, and ice from the cooler. Next, use a mild soap or detergent and warm water to clean the inside and outside of the cooler. A soft-bristled brush can be useful for removing any stubborn stains or dirt. Rinse the cooler thoroughly with clean water and dry it completely before storing it away.
If your cooler has any odors, you can use a mixture of baking soda and water to neutralize them. Simply mix a tablespoon of baking soda with a cup of water, and use a clean cloth to wipe the inside of the cooler. Allow it to sit for a few hours before rinsing it out with water and drying it.
Finally, make sure to store the cooler in a dry, cool place with the lid slightly open to prevent moisture buildup. Regular maintenance, such as checking for any cracks or leaks, is also important to ensure the longevity of your cooler. By following these simple steps, your cooler will be ready for your next adventure.
How long can food and drinks stay cold in a cooler during a road trip?
The duration for which food and drinks can stay cold in a cooler during a road trip depends on various factors such as the type of cooler, the amount of ice used, and the outside temperature. Generally, a cooler with good insulation can keep ice frozen for up to five days. However, this is only possible if the cooler is filled to its capacity, and the lid is kept closed as much as possible. For shorter trips, say within a day, a cooler can keep food and drinks cold for up to 12 hours or more. It is important to note that the more items you add to the cooler, the longer they will stay cold. Also, pre-chilling your food and drinks before packing them in the cooler can help keep them cold for a longer period. It is advisable to use ice packs instead of ice cubes as they melt slower, and they don't make the food soggy. In summary, how long food and drinks stay cold in a cooler during a road trip depends on various factors, but with proper planning and preparation, it is possible to keep them fresh for an extended period.
What are the best coolers for road trips in terms of size and durability?
When it comes to road trips, having a reliable cooler is essential to keep your food and drinks fresh and cool. The best coolers for road trips are those that offer both size and durability. In terms of size, it depends on how long your road trip is and how many people will be using the cooler. A 50-quart cooler is a good size for a family of four on a weekend trip, while a larger 80-quart cooler would be better for longer trips or larger groups.
In terms of durability, the best coolers are made of high-quality materials that can withstand rough handling and extreme temperatures. Some popular options include Yeti, Pelican, and Igloo. Yeti coolers are known for their ruggedness and ability to keep ice for days, while Pelican coolers are built to military-grade standards and have a lifetime guarantee. Igloo coolers are more affordable and come in a variety of sizes and styles.
Ultimately, the best cooler for your road trip will depend on your specific needs and budget. Consider the size, durability, and price when making your decision, and don't forget to read reviews from other road trippers to get an idea of how well the cooler performs in real-world situations.
What are the most effective ways to pack a cooler for a road trip to maximize space and keep items cold?
Packing a cooler for a road trip can be a tricky task, but with the right approach, you can maximize space and keep your items cold. Here are some effective ways to pack a cooler for a road trip:
1. Start with a clean and dry cooler: Before packing your cooler, make sure it's clean and dry. Any leftover moisture or dirt can affect the cooling performance of your cooler.
2. Use ice packs instead of ice: Ice packs are more effective at keeping items cold and won't create a mess as they melt. Place them at the bottom of the cooler and around the sides.
3. Group items by temperature: Grouping items together based on their temperature needs can help you maximize space and keep everything at the right temperature. For example, keep drinks and perishable items in separate sections.
4. Pack tightly: Try to pack your cooler as tightly as possible to reduce air pockets. This will help keep items cold and maximize space.
5. Keep the cooler out of direct sunlight: Avoid leaving your cooler in direct sunlight or in a hot car. This can cause your items to spoil and reduce the effectiveness of your cooler.
By following these tips, you can pack your cooler efficiently and keep your items cold on your road trip.