"Discover the Top 10 Affordable and Premium Rotomolded Coolers Brands"

If you're a stickler for quality and you don't mind shelling out some extra cash, then roto molded coolers might be for you. These high-end coolers are renowned for their superior build and advanced features that come at a premium price.

Given their cost, it's essential to choose the right cooler for your needs. That's where this article comes in - we'll highlight the best roto molded coolers in various categories and provide some additional useful information.

Without further ado, let's dive in!

The 10 Best Rotomolded Coolers in 2022

Based on our extensive testing and research, these are the cream of the crop when it comes to roto molded coolers available on the market today. You can't go wrong with any of these options.

1. YETI Tundra – The Ultimate All-Rounder

YETI Tundra 45 Cooler More Details

Let's face it - YETI coolers from the Tundra line are the gold standard for roto molded coolers, and for good reason. These coolers are a favorite of outdoor enthusiasts who want to protect their food and drinks from wild predators like grizzly bears.

One of the standout features of the Tundra line is the PermaFrost Insulation technology, which gives the coolers an impressive ice retention capability of up to 6-7 days.

The FatWall design, heavy-duty latches, and hinge system that's specifically engineered to never fail make these coolers built to last. The double-haul handles, molded tie-down slots, and rubber feet add to their practicality, and make it easy to transport and mount them on your boat or truck bed.

Prices for these coolers range from $275 to $375.

Pros

- Reliable ice retention

- Certified bear-resistant by Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC)

- Highly durable

- Plenty of convenient features

Cons

2. YETI V Series Stainless Steel Hard Cooler – The Premium Choice

YETI V Series 55, Stainless Steel Vacuum Insulated Cooler Check Price

If you're looking for something that's a cut above the rest, then the YETI V Series Stainless Steel Hard Cooler might be the right choice for you. It's the epitome of cutting-edge design, featuring vacuum insulation, a sleek exterior, and a durable construction.

The V Series coolers are built to last and come with a host of practical features. The vacuum insulation makes them perfect for keeping your drinks at the right temperature for an extended period. The stainless steel exterior is not only stylish but also resistant to scratches and dents.

The V Series coolers come in different sizes, with the 55-quart variant being the most popular. However, their premium features and build quality come with a hefty price tag, with prices averaging around 0.

Pros

- Top-of-the-line vacuum insulation

- Stylish and durable stainless steel exterior

- Available in various sizes

Cons

YETI has done it again! This latest offering combines the brand’s top technologies from various product lines to present a truly innovative roto molded cooler.

The YETI Stainless Steel cooler utilizes the renowned vacuum insulation technology from the Rambler drinkware to elevate the Tundra body into a cutting-edge product.

At 0, it may seem like a splurge, but the technology is undeniably impressive, and it's pretty cool (pun intended).

For a truly unique cooler that stands out from the rest, this is the one to beat.

Pros

Sleek and stylishAdvanced technologyCompatible with wine and soda bottlesReliable and sturdyCons

ExpensiveNot bear-proofExterior can become hot

3. EchoSmile 35 Quart Rotomolded Cooler – An Affordable Choice

Priced at just $165.99, this cooler is simple yet effective, with ice retention lasting up to four days.

The lid has a tight-fitting gasket to preserve cold and prevent warm air from getting in, and it's lockable for added security.

Its drainage plug makes it easy to clean and empty.

Pros

AffordableReliable ice retentionSturdy buildCons

Basic featuresNot certified bear-proof

4. AmazonCommercial 45 Quart Rotomolded Cooler

Looking for value? This rotomolded cooler is your best bet. At just $199.99, it performs exceptionally well and offers practical additional features.

It can keep food and beverages ice-cold for up to seven days, making it ideal for long camping or fishing excursions.

Despite being made by an unexpected brand, it retains its rugged body thanks to rotational molding, making it all but indestructible.

If you're looking for a cooler that delivers more than what you're paying for, the AmazonCommercial 45 Quart Rotomolded Cooler is an excellent value. With thick insulation and a UV-resistant shell, this cooler is built to withstand the toughest conditions. It even comes equipped with built-in bottle openers and has good ice retention, making it the perfect choice for your outdoor adventures. However, it's worth noting that the basic design and limited color options may not appeal to everyone.

Another great option to consider is the Canyon Outfitter 35 Quart Cooler. This cooler is slightly more expensive at $250, but it's designed to be bomb-proof and comes with a lifetime warranty. The EZ-Cam Latch ensures easy access to the cooler's contents, and it can keep ice frozen and drinks cool for up to six days, depending on usage.

If you're willing to spend a bit more, the Cordova 48 Quart Basecamp Class Cooler is another great choice. Made in the USA and founded by a former Navy SEAL and backcountry pilot, this cooler is built tough and comes with a patented Lid Lock system to prevent injuries. It's a bit heavier than other coolers of its size and capacity, but the customizable design options make it worth the $259.99 price tag. So, if you want a cooler that's reliable, durable, and delivers on its promises, these three options are definitely worth considering.

Pelican Coolers: Keeping Your Refreshments Chilled in Style

Pelican, since 1976, has been dedicated to producing high-quality roto-molded coolers that cater to the needs of individuals from all walks of life. If you're on the lookout for a top-notch cooler that reflects your taste and flair, look no further than the Pelican coolers.

7. Pelican 70 Quart Elite Cooler: Best Large Capacity Rotomolded Cooler

We've picked the Pelican 70 Quart Elite Cooler as the crème de la crème in the large capacity category. With an internal volume of genuine 70 quarts, it outshines other competing roto-molded coolers that tend to skimp on volume. What's more, it's equipped with a press-and-pull latching system that not only secures its contents but also offers protection for your hands - a unique feature that you won't find on other roto-molded coolers.

Pelican 70 Quart Elite Cooler is also fitted with a fish ruler, self-draining cup holders, a bottle opener, and non-skid feet, making it an ideal choice for every nature enthusiast who loves fishing, camping, or hiking. Though it costs $420, our experts believe it's worth every penny, given the incredible value it delivers.

Pros:

• Best large capacity cooler on the market
• Excellent ice retention
• Durable construction
• Bear-resistant certified
• Lifetime warranty

Cons:

• May be too pricey for some consumers
• Heavy for its capacity

8. Pelican Elite Coolers With Wheels: For Easy Movement

If you're in the market for a cooler with wheels, the Pelican Elite Coolers With Wheels is a fantastic choice. With an internal volume of 80 quarts, this cooler is designed to meet all your cooling needs while providing ease of movement.

Whether you're planning an outdoor hiking adventure or a prolonged camping excursion, the Pelican Elite Coolers With Wheels boasts heavy-duty features that guarantee reliable performance.

Pros:

• Easy to move
• Excellent ice retention
• Durable construction
• Bear-resistant certified
• Lifetime warranty

Cons:

• May be too heavy when fully packed
• Expensive compared to other cooler models

In conclusion, the Pelican coolers stand head and shoulders above the competition in terms of quality, durability, price, and features. Whether you're a camping enthusiast, an angler, or just someone who loves keeping refreshments chilled on outdoor excursions or parties, the Pelican coolers are an ideal choice that guarantees satisfaction.

With one of the most robust and durable sets of wheels on the market, the Pelican cooler is the ultimate solution for towing your refreshments from one location to another. The Pelican Elite Coolers with Wheels flaunt molded-in handles, making it easier to tow the cooler without exerting too much effort. These handles also come with a built-in trolley handle for added convenience.

The non-skid feet and molded-in tie-down slots ensure that the cooler stays in place when stationary, providing safety and protection for your drinks and snacks. The thick insulation and 360-degree freezer-grade gasket work together to keep your ice frozen for days, regardless of the outside temperature.

Available in 45 and 80 quarts options, the Pelican cooler comes with a hefty price tag starting from $429.99. While expensive, this cooler's ice retention is unrivaled compared to other wheeled coolers.

Pros

The Pelican cooler boasts excellent insulation and heavy-duty wheels, and comes with a lifetime warranty.

Cons

It is quite expensive and has low clearance wheels.

9. ORCA 40 Quart Hard Cooler

ORCA coolers have always been revered for their exceptional ice retention capabilities. They can store ice even in extreme temperatures that aren't ideal for retaining ice. Generally, larger roto molded coolers hold ice for longer when filled to capacity, regardless of the outdoor temperature.

The ORCA 40 Quart Cooler, with its superior rotomolded construction and integrated insulation system, provides a prolonged period of ice-cold refreshments. It comes with a lid gasket that creates a perfect seal. Under optimum conditions, this cooler's ice retention can last up to 10 days.

Pros

The ORCA 40 Quart Cooler boasts superior ice retention, heavy-duty build, and fun color options.

Cons

10. RTIC 65-Quart Hard Cooler

The New York Times Wirecutter Award winner, RTIC 65-Quart Hard Cooler, provides ice retention performance that can rival YETI and ORCA coolers. The rubber gasket on the lid ensures that cold air remains sealed, keeping your drinks and snacks at a consistent temperature that's ideal for long camping trips, and other outdoor activities.

Although not certified bear-proof, the RTIC 65-Quart Hard Cooler is durable and built to last, withstanding whatever harsh outdoor environments can throw its way.

This cooler is an amazing performer and it may surprise you that it costs only $249.99. Its excellent value, durability, and reliable ice retention make it an award-winning and robust cooler.

Pros:

- Excellent value

- Award-winning

- Robust and durable

- Reliable ice retention

Cons:

What to Consider Before Buying a Rotomolded Cooler

The rotomolded construction of these coolers provides many advantages to their users. However, it is important to consider what you actually need before splurging on a cooler with features you may not use.

Consider the following factors to help you choose the right cooler:

• #1 Price

Rotomolded coolers are not cheap. Finding a decent sized one for less than $100 is difficult and they are often of poor quality without added features.

Setting a budget and looking for a cooler within your price range that suits your needs is advised. However, if you want a rotomolded cooler and can't find one within your budget, be more flexible with your budget allotment.

Remember, you do not need to spend your money on brand-name coolers if you find a comparable, more affordable one.

#2 Size

If you don't need a large capacity or don't have space to store it, avoid purchasing a bigger cooler.

Some rotomolded coolers can hold over a hundred quarts, but are pricier, heavier, and challenging to store. If your primary intended use is for day trips, there's no need to buy a cooler with over 30 quarts of capacity.

Buying a cooler according to your needs is the best approach.

#3 Ice Retention

Larger coolers generally keep ice for longer than smaller coolers. Smaller coolers are designed for shorter trips and are not meant to hold ice for extended periods.

Coolers with a gasket on the lid are common to lock in temperatures and prevent external temperatures from interfering. Check for this feature and look for a freezer-grade gasket.

Pre-cooling your cooler will result in better ice retention.

How Long Do Rotomolded Coolers Last?

Rotomolded coolers are heavy-duty, essentially indestructible, and built to last long. The length of time a cooler lasts you depends on how you use and care for it.

Owners of these coolers can enjoy them for years and with proper care, they may very well last a lifetime. Ensure you make use of the warranty should you need it, as rotomolded coolers are definitely not cheap.

Are Rotomolded Coolers Better Than Regular Coolers?

Generally, rotomolded coolers are better than regular coolers. The construction of these coolers allows for thick insulation and durable build, and they can retain a low internal temperature despite external temperatures.

Their build is strong and crack-resistant and they are even certified bear-proof by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee.

Soft-sided or regular coolers are lightweight in comparison, but their insulation isn't as effective nor does it have the durability of a rotomolded cooler. They are less expensive, however.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here's some more information on coolers worth noting:

• Are All Rotomolded Coolers the Same?

Yes and no. They are made through rotational molding, making them sturdy and almost indestructible. However, not all coolers use the same quality of plastic and features also vary.

Do You Need to Clean Your Rotomolded Cooler?

Yes, they need to be cleaned to maintain food safety and to look better. Cooler brands will have their own instructions on how to clean up, but draining off all the melted ice is a good start.

Are RTIC Coolers Rotomolded?

RTIC's hard coolers are all rotomolded except for their 20 Quart variation. Though their soft-sided coolers are not rotomolded, they perform well.

Is YETI Roto-Molded?

Yes, YETI's hard coolers are all rotomolded coolers. Their soft-sided coolers, however, are not made of rotational plastic.

Are YETI Coolers the Best?

YETI coolers are a safe bet if you want to invest in a rotomolded cooler. However, they may or may not be the best depending on your needs. Their competitors produce coolers with equally stellar reputations.

Summary of Top Picks

Some of the best rotomolded coolers on the market today include:

• Best Overall – YETI Tundra

• You can't go wrong with YETI Tundra's all-around great performance, excellent reputation, and low-key decision-making.

• Premium Pick – YETI V Series Stainless Steel

• This cooler combines impeccable style with cutting-edge technology, making it expensive but worth the investment for those who care about aesthetics.

• Most Affordable Option – EchoSmile 35 Quart Rotomolded Cooler

• For those on a budget, this medium-sized cooler performs well and has all the basic features found in higher-end coolers.

• Final Thoughts

Rotomolded coolers are a great investment with superior ice retention and strong build. Choose one that suits your budget and lifestyle and remember that not all rotomolded coolers are made equal.