6 Best Beach Coolers Reviewed in 2023
A good beach cooler is just as essential as your beach umbrella, beach towel, and sunscreen when it comes to spending time on the beach.
Whether you want to escape the summer heat for just a few hours or spend the whole day at the beach, you’re going to need to find the best beach cooler that’ll keep your food and drinks cold, be easy to travel with, and fit within your budget too.
With so many options to choose from, we’re here to help you decide which cooler is best for you. In this list of the best beach coolers of 2022, we cover everything from smaller beach coolers fit for quick trips to the beach to heavy-duty beach cooler options built for long trips with large groups.
Let’s dive in to find the best beach cooler for your next vacation!
The Top 6 Beach Coolers in 2023
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1
Most Durable: YETI Tundra Haul Portable -
2
Best Backpack Beach Cooler : Hydro Flask Day Escape -
3
Best Value: Coleman 316 Series Wheeled Cooler -
4
Best For Hiking & Day Trips: ORCA Walker 20 Cooler -
5
Most Lightweight: CleverMade Collapsible -
6
All the Beach Coolers We've tested
Equipped with permafrost insulation, sturdy construction, and extra thick walls, the Yeti Tundra Haul Portable Wheeled Cooler is one of the most durable beach coolers out there. It’s big enough to fit up to 45 12-ounce cans and can keep ice solid for up to 5 days.
This cooler is exceptionally strong because it’s made using a process called rotation molding, which basically determines how the plastic is shaped. Rotomolded construction is considered superior thanks to the durability and thick and consistent insulation it provides – eliminating any weak spots.
Unsurprisingly, the size and construction of the cooler make it pretty heavy. There are a few features the cooler includes to combat this. The wheels are tough and made to handle long treks across the sand. It also comes with an arm handle with cushioned grips for added comfort.
As far as other features go, the Yeti Tundra Haul does lack some extras compared to similar coolers. Any extra accessories, such as a dry storage bag, cooler divider, or drink holders need to be purchased separately. That can be an issue when you consider the hefty price tag of $400.
Yeti’s pricing is based on their reputation of being a brand that is committed to creating high-quality products that are durable and long-lasting.
When it comes to the Yeti Tundra Haul Portable Wheeled Cooler, buyers claim they get what they pay for and have no regrets. If you’re looking for a large and sturdy cooler that’ll last you for years to come and have the money to spend, it will be worth it.
Specs & Features
- Material: Rotomolded plastic with polyurethane insulation
- Capacity: 55 Lbs
- Dimensions: 28 x 21 x 19.75 inches
- Weight: 37 Lbs
- Price: $400
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Wheels are strong and roll across sand easily
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Comes with a handle for added portability
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Rotomolded construction offers thick and consistent insulation
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Durable and made with high-quality materials
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Good size for large groups
Things we don't like:
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Some users complain it’s too heavy for one individual to carry
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Any extra accessories need to be purchased separately
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Very expensive
Not every beach outing will require a huge cooler. If you’re planning a quick trip to the beach, you’ll want a smaller and lightweight option, especially if you’re only packing a few snacks and drinks for yourself. What you need is a soft-sided backpack cooler.
There’s a lot to love about the Hydro Flask Day Escape Soft Cooler, which is why it made it onto our list as the Best Backpack Beach Cooler. Padded shoulder straps allow for comfortable, hands-free carrying while still featuring carry handles for the option to be used as a tote bag as well.
It’s surprisingly roomy for its size, being able to fit 36 cans (without ice). If you do want to pack it with ice for some extra chilling, go right ahead. The insulated liner is leakproof and boasts 36 hours of ice retention.
This backpack is on the higher end of the price range at $200, so it might not fit into everyone’s budget. But, it is worth considering if you’re an avid beachgoer who’s looking for a cooler bag that’s both portable and durable. Hydro Flask is known for being a brand committed to creating high-quality products that’ll stand the test of time.
All in all, the Hydro Flask Day Escape Soft Cooler is portable, well-insulated, and stylish – it’s a great choice for an individual or couple who’re willing to splurge a little.
Specs & Features
- Material: 600D polyester shell with BPA-free liner
- Capacity: 20 Liters
- Dimensions: 7.8 x 12.99 x 17.72 inches
- Price: $200
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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The 600-denier polyester shell makes it leakproof and durable
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It looks sleek and comes in multiple attractive color options
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Removable straps allow it to be used as a backpack or tote
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It’s self-standing for easy packing and food/drink access
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Features a mesh outer pocket for your water bottle
Things we don't like:
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The chest straps can be uncomfortable for larger busts or taller individuals
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The zipper can be difficult to open and close
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Some reviewers complain the opening is too narrow, which makes it hard to grab items at the bottom of the bag
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Very expensive
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly cooler option that still provides durability, excellent ice retention, and even extra features, then look no further than the Coleman 316 Series Wheeled Hard Cooler.
The 62 Quart size is priced at around $65 – a bargain if you consider all of its features. To begin with, it’s spacious enough to fit up to 100 cans and has drink holders molded into the lid. You can definitely rely on this cooler to take care of a crowd! It’s also fully insulated and will keep ice for up to 5 days.
Did you or a friend forget to grab a beach chair? Take a seat on your Coleman cooler, which is sturdy enough to support up to 250 pounds.
The portability of this beach cooler is also noteworthy. Rugged 6-inch wheels and swing-up handles make transporting the cooler a breeze.
Traditional, affordable, and long-lasting, the Coleman 316 Series Wheeled Hard Cooler is our pick for the best-value beach cooler.
Specs & Features
- Material: Plastic
- Capacity: 62 Quarts
- Weight: 14.7 Lbs
- Ice Retention: 5 Days
- Dimensions: 27.88 x 15.63 x 18 inches
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Wheels and handle make for easy pulling on sand
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It’s an affordable option without sacrificing important features
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Sturdy enough to be used as a seat
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Easy to drain and clean
Things we don't like:
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Some coolers seem to have lid defects such as faulty hinges and difficulty staying open (however, Coleman’s customer service is reportedly prompt and helpful)
Best suited for your milder adventures, the ORCA Walker 20 Cooler is handy to have on a hiking trip, a day at the beach, or even a few hours out on a kayak.
At only 3.6 pounds, its smaller size makes it portable and convenient to carry. Padded shoulder straps provide added comfort for transport. The waterproof zipper is thick and ensures leak-free travels, though the downside to that is it can require a bit of extra effort to open and close.
Though it is small, it is mighty. With double-denier outer fabric and thickly insulated inner walls, the ORCA Walker 20 Cooler is one of the most durable soft coolers available. It’ll also keep up to 20 cans cool for around 24 hours.
Although the price tag of $200 is pretty high compared to other soft-sided coolers, this one is built for adventurous beachgoers who need a cooler to take on hiking, boating, or fishing trips. The Orca Walker 20 Cooler is a well-made soft-sided cooler that’s just as durable as a hard-sided alternative but with way more portability and comfort.
Specs & Features
- Material: Meta Polymer Inner Walls and 840-denier Textile Exterior
- Capacity: 33 Liters
- Weight: 3.6 Lbs
- Ice Retention: 24 Hours
- Dimensions: 18 x 14.75 x 12.5 inches
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Things we like:
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Good option for a day trip or hiking excursion
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Comes with extra features like multiple carrying options and molle webbing exterior for adding attachments
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Thick insulation
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Exceptionally sturdy for a soft-sided cooler
Things we don't like:
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The waterproof zipper is thick and can be hard to open and close (cooler comes with a special lubricant to help with this)
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Very expensive
It’s lightweight, extremely portable, versatile, and totally affordable. The CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag is waiting to be taken on your next beach trip or outdoor outing.
This is the cooler bag you’ll want if you’re looking for something that’s lightweight, compact, and won’t take up too much storage space. This pop-up cooler folds down to just under three inches when collapsed. It comes with durable handles and a padded shoulder strap for easy and comfortable carrying.
It’s not meant for a large group by any means, but it can still hold up to 30 cans inside its triple-layer insulated liner. Reviewers report ice retention is perfect for a short day out in the sun – lasting up to 24 hours.
If you’re not ready to commit to a heavy-duty hard cooler or you simply don’t have a need for one, the CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag is a really good alternative and our choice for the most lightweight beach cooler bag.
Specs & Features
- Material : Polyester
- Capacity: 20 Liters
- Weight: 2 Lbs
- Ice Retention: Users reported up to 24 hours
- Dimensions: 18.25 x 12.25 x 11.5 inches
Our Overall Review
We have thoroughly tested - and read reviews from other experts and users. In summary, this is what we think:
Which Is the Best Beach Cooler For You?
We hope this guide helps you find the perfect beach cooler to take along on your beach and outdoor adventures.
A few things to keep in mind as you begin your search are the differences between hard and soft-sided coolers, ice retention, and portability.
Hard-Sided vs. Soft-Sided
Hard-sided coolers are usually made of aluminum or durable plastic material and come in a large range of sizes. Soft-sided coolers are made from fabric, making them smaller and more lightweight.
Soft-sided coolers have a few great perks, such as being very portable, versatile, and easy to store. They’re a good option for day trips and small groups.
Hard-sided coolers are sturdier, have more room for food & drinks, and offer longer ice retention. If you’re an avid beachgoer or like to travel with large groups, these are worth taking a look at.
Portability
You’re going to want to get your cooler from point A to point B the easiest way possible. The portability of your cooler will depend on features such as wheels, handles, straps, size, and weight.
Ice Retention
A beach cooler’s most important job is keeping your food and drinks cold. While looking for the best beach cooler, be sure to consider its ice retention capacity and insulation.
Still have questions or want to share other outstanding beach coolers or related products? Let us know in the comment section below!
Frequently asked questions
The best coolers for the beach should have long-lasting ice retention to keep your food and drinks cold in the sun, be easy to transport across long stretches of sand and parking lots, and durable enough to last the wear and tear of multiple beach trips.
Our favorite beach coolers for every occasion and buyer are listed below.
- Most Durable: YETI Tundra Haul Portable Wheeled Cooler
- Best Backpack Beach Cooler: Hydro Flask Day Escape Soft Cooler
- Best Value: Coleman 316 Series Wheeled Cooler
- Best For Hiking & Day Trips: ORCA Walker 20 Cooler
- Most Lightweight: CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag
- Most Features: Igloo 70 Qt Premium Trailmate Wheeled Rolling Cooler
When it comes to keeping food and drinks cold in a cooler, you can always toss a bag or two of ice in to get the job done. However, ice can melt pretty quickly, leaving your food and drinks floating in a puddle of water.
A great alternative to plain old ice are ice packs specifically designed to stay frozen for a long time and be mess-free. The best ice packs for coolers are gel-based, easy to pack and store, quick to prep and freeze, and stay frozen for hours on end.
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