Portable Coolers GuidePortable Coolers Guide

Size- and Use-Case Comparisons

Top Articles

Best Ultralight Coolers for Hiking: Ice Retention That Holds

Best Ultralight Coolers for Hiking: Ice Retention That Holds

Use field-tested data and a total cost of cold metric to choose the right ultralight soft cooler for any hike, with clear picks for day trips and 2-3 day pushes. Get precise ice plans and packing tactics to maximize cold hours, cut weight, and prevent spoilage.

13th Oct
Best Wheeled Coolers That Actually Roll on Sand & Rock

Best Wheeled Coolers That Actually Roll on Sand & Rock

Focus on wheel width, tread, and axle strength - not logos - to choose a cooler that rolls on sand and rock, with a cost-per-cold-hour breakdown and field-tested picks to maximize cold for your budget.

11th Oct
Activity-Specific Coolers: Right Fit for Every Trip

Activity-Specific Coolers: Right Fit for Every Trip

Choose the right cooler for the job and pack it in zones to serve faster, prevent cross-contamination, and cut cleanup time, with practical setups for tailgates, fishing, worksites, and family trips.

Operation-Tested Beach Cart Coolers for Summer

Operation-Tested Beach Cart Coolers for Summer

Spec, pack, and operate a beach cart cooler for 100-degree sand using real-world thresholds for wheel clearance, UV, and access frequency - plus simple SOPs and product picks to keep temps safe and crews productive.

Best Portable Cooler Guide: Matched to Your First Purchase

Best Portable Cooler Guide: Matched to Your First Purchase

Cut through the cooler hype with a simple “total cost of cold” framework that matches specs and ice budgets to real trips. Learn which features actually matter, how much ice to buy, and packing strategies that stretch cold hours while saving money.

Explore Other Topics

Electric & Powered Coolers
Electric & Powered Coolers

Comparisons, reviews, and optimization tips for 12V/electric portable coolers, including power efficiency, batteries, and solar charging.

How-To Use & Care
How-To Use & Care

Practical guides for packing, ice management, operating in extreme climates, medical transport, accessories, and maintenance to get the most from any cooler.

Science & History
Science & History

Explanations of cooling science, insulation technologies, and the evolution of portable coolers to help readers understand performance drivers.

Market Segment Showdowns
Market Segment Showdowns

Comparisons by market tier or style, including premium head-to-heads, budget picks, and limited-edition/design-focused models.