Make Hauling Drinks Effortless with These Amazing Coolers on Wheels

Our team conducts thorough and independent evaluations of all recommended products and services. If you choose to click on any of the links we provide, we may receive compensation. For further details, click to learn more.

For those who enjoy outdoor activities such as camping and tailgating, having a reliable cooler can greatly enhance the experience. The best coolers offer top-notch ice retention capabilities and come with features that make them easy and convenient to use, such as a drainage plug and built-in cup holders on the lid. If you plan on venturing far away from your vehicle, consider investing in a wheeled cooler for added mobility.

A quality set of wheels paired with a comfortable and easy-to-retract handle can make all the difference when transporting your load from point A to B, regardless of weight. When selecting a new cooler, keep in mind factors such as pricing, style, and intended use. Check out our favorite wheeled coolers below, perfect for any outing.

Pros: This cooler has ample capacity, impressive ice retention capabilities and can even be used as a seat or table when the lid is shut.

Cons: This option may seem expensive and lacks additional features.

Yeti is a household name when it comes to coolers, and for a good reason. This wheeled model provides excellent insulation and a durable build, making it the perfect candidate for hot summer days. The impact-resistant wheels' unique design allows you to travel on any terrain with ease, while the aluminum handles provide secure and comfortable grips. With commercial-grade foam insulation lining both the walls and the lid, your drinks will remain cold and your ice frozen for longer. The cooler has a capacity of 45 cans, with a 2:1 ice-to-can ratio, or 55 pounds of ice. Our tester was impressed with the secure seal and excellent turn radius of the latches, which kept the contents cold for a full 24 hours with minimal melting. Take a load off and use it as a seat or table if you're feeling tired or short on space at your tailgate.

Price at time of publishing: $450

Capacity: 45 cans Weight: 37 pounds Dimensions: 28.2 x 19.5 x 18.6 inches

Pros: This cooler features a telescoping handle that locks in place and built-in cup holders to prevent spills.

Cons: The side handles may not feel secure when carrying solo without the telescoping handle.

This Coleman cooler is proof that quality doesn't always come with a high price tag. Its smooth-textured lid is easy to clean and maintain, even after spills at a tailgate or outdoor gathering. The lid also supports up to 250 pounds, which is enough to use as a seat (one less folding chair to carry) and contains four molded cup holders for convenience. With rugged wheels and a telescoping handle that locks in place while dragging the cooler, it can withstand any terrain. The 50-quart capacity cooler can hold up to 84 cans and maintain a cool temperature thanks to the insulated walls and lid.

The cost, dimensions, and storage capacity of different coolers are significant factors to consider before purchasing one. The first cooler to evaluate is the Pelican cooler, which at the time of writing costs and holds up to 84 cans. The Pelican cooler has an insulation of two inches of polyurethane and a freezer-grade gasket allowing it to retain ice for a prolonged time. Furthermore, this cooler has a measuring board and bottle opener integrated into the lid, making it an excellent option for fishing trips. The cooler's lid also has four self-draining cup holders to avoid any mess.

The weight of the Pelican cooler is 12.2 pounds, and it measures 22.6 x 17.6 x 17.5 inches. However, when the cooler reaches its full capacity, it may be heavy and difficult to move without assistance. Nevertheless, Pelican offers a lifetime warranty for their coolers, easing any worries if something goes wrong.

On the other hand, the Igloo wheeled cooler costs $570 and has a storage capacity of 58 cans. While it may cost more, it has multiple features that make it a popular choice for outdoor events. The Igloo cooler has a bottle opener on each side, a removable tray, and fixtures for holding fishing poles or umbrellas. It also comes equipped with a small table for food and drinks and a lockable storage section and pocket for keeping valuable belongings.

Weighing at 49.5 pounds and measuring 42.88 x 20.75 x 20.25 inches, this cooler is more substantial and difficult to move around. It also does not have a latch which can lead to spills or leakage if tipped over with melted ice. However, its sturdy wheels and easy-to-maneuver handlebar make it convenient and comfortable to transport.

In conclusion, the Pelican and Igloo coolers are two excellent options with different features depending on one's needs. It is crucial to determine what features are necessary to make the most of the cooler and ultimately make the outdoor event more comfortable and enjoyable.

At the time of publication, this product is priced at $300. It has a capacity of 112 cans, weighs 34.7 pounds, and measures 34.59 x 19.7 x 23.61 inches. While it may appear small, this Canyon cooler packs a punch. It is equipped with rotomolded construction and solid wheels, allowing for impressive ice retention. Moreover, the handle has integrated technology, allowing you to fully extend it and easily open the lid. The cooler can hold 20 to 40 cans, depending on desired ice amount. The lid even features cup holders and a bungee cord for strapping on additional gear. Lastly, it comes with a convenient integrated bottle opener on the back.

At the time of publication, this Igloo cooler is priced at $290. It has a capacity of 20 cans, weighs 26 pounds, and measures 18 x 18 x 17.25 inches. Ideal for large gatherings or parties due to its capacity of 110 quarts, this cooler can hold up to 168 cans and has foam insulation to keep its contents ice cold. While full, it may be on the heavier side, but the telescoping handle and smooth wheels make it easy to bring along. Additionally, the impact-resistant latch ensures that any contents remain secure and avoid spills. Take it to outdoor events without worry as the polyethylene exterior contains infrared technology and UV inhibitors to avoid sun damage.

At the time of publication, this product is priced at $166. It has a capacity of 168 cans, weighs 25.4 pounds, and measures 39.76 x 18.5 x 19.69 inches. Keep a plethora of contents cool with this cooler from Igloo, holding up to 168 cans. The foam insulation inside the walls and lid keeps contents chilled even in hot temperatures. Although full, it is easier to transport with the telescoping handle and smooth wheels. The lid is secured with an impact-resistant latch for extra security. Lastly, the polyethylene exterior protects against sun damage with infrared technology and UV inhibitors.

Advantages: This particular model is ideal for short outings or traveling due to its lightweight design.

Disadvantages: A soft cooler cannot maintain the same level of insulation for an extended period as a hard cooler.

Coleman has introduced a soft cooler equipped with wheels to simplify your life. The 42-can cooler is built with additional foam insulation, ensuring your drinks and snacks remain chilled throughout your treks. The wheels enable smooth movement, thanks to a telescoping handle, making transportation straightforward. The outer layer is made using recycled materials with welded seams to guarantee no liquid spillage. The removable antimicrobial liner ensures the cooler remains clean and mold-free. Additional features include pockets for snacks, extra ice packs, a top hatch for drink access, and a bottle opener.

Price during the time of release:

Capacity: 42 cansWeight: 6.7 poundsDimensions: 13.3 x 19.5 x 10.6 inches

The Yeti Tundra Haul Portable Wheeled Cooler is a robust model, providing ample capacity suitable for diverse settings. The contents remain cool for days, and the long handle makes carrying it comfortable. If you're looking for a cooler to take to the beach, the Igloo Premium Trailmate Wheeled Rolling Cooler is an excellent option with a removable butler tray to keep drinks and snacks off the ground.

When choosing the size of your cooler, consider where you intend to utilize it and the quantity of drinks and snacks you'll be storing. A 20-can capacity cooler is sufficient for a day trip with a single person. We suggest going bigger for extended camping trips and significant gatherings. Always pack extra water and food to be safe, and a cooler with a 40- to 100-can capacity is an intelligent choice. Remember, coolers on wheels may be easier to manipulate while walking, but they are hard to lift into vehicles or up stairs at maximum capacity.

Hard coolers have thicker walls that provide higher-grade insulation, which prevents ice from melting for a longer duration. Soft coolers are typically lighter, making them more portable, although they are not as good at keeping drinks and ice cold as hard-sided ones.

Features may include drain plugs, removable butler trays, built-in bottle openers, or storage pockets. Consider the features that will be most useful to you and prioritize choosing a cooler with them. Also, make sure the wheels are made of durable materials such as rubber or sturdy plastic, offering traction to get across any terrain at any weight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are wheeled coolers better?

When deciding between a cooler with or without wheels, consider your destination. A wheeled cooler is more practical for extended distances. It is easier to pull a cooler behind you than carrying it over your shoulder or both hands. Additionally, when tailgating or camping, you'll have other items to carry besides the cooler. A wheeled cooler frees one hand to carry a folding chair, as opposed to carrying large, heavy loads.

How much ice should I put in a cooler?

When including recommendations for the appropriate ratio of ice to contents in the product manual, it is important to note that this is not an exact science. The ideal ratio can vary depending on the type of ice being used, such as crushed, cubed, or packs, as well as the temperature conditions. A suggested starting point is a 2:1 ratio of ice to goods, with adjustments made as necessary to achieve the desired results.

Wondering how to properly clean your cooler? The process begins by first emptying out all contents, as well as any remaining ice or liquids present. Look for drain plugs located on your cooler to facilitate easy drainage and prompt drying without the need for excessive water dumping. If stains or unpleasant odors persist even after the cooler has been emptied, use a mild dish soap and warm water to wipe down the interior, repeating this process for the exterior if necessary. To combat persistent smells, try wiping the cooler with a diluted bleach solution, following up with a water wipe down and ensuring the cooler is fully dry before being stored.

Jacqueline Weiss is an experienced food writer who has spent over five years perfecting her craft and is passionate about all things culinary. She has been featured on numerous platforms, including Eat This Not That, EatingWell, AllRecipes, Simply Recipes, and beyond. For this article, Ms. Weiss leveraged extensive market research, in-house testing insights, and her own expertise to curate this comprehensive list.

Thank you for your valuable input!