Stay Cool at the Beach: Finding the Perfect Insulated Cooler for Your Summer Adventures

Are you ready to take your beach days to the next level? Say goodbye to lukewarm drinks and melting ice with the ultimate solution: an insulated cooler for beach days. Whether you're planning a picnic in the sand or a day of fishing on the boat, having the right cooler is essential. But with so many options out there, how do you know which one is right for you? Look no further. In this article, we've done the research and rounded up the best coolers on the market, so you can spend less time searching and more time enjoying the sun and surf. Get ready to chill out in style and keep your drinks ice cold as we dive into the world of the coolest coolers around.

What Type of Ice Should I Use in a Cooler?

There are three main types of ice: Cubed, Block, and Artificial.

Cubed ice is the most commonly used. You can easily find it at any corner store for a few bucks, and it will last for an outing. It chills the contents of your cooler quickly, but it does melt and result in a pool of water. So, if you leave anything other than drinks in the cooler for too long, it will become soggy.

Block ice lasts the longest. This is ideal for long camping trips when you need things to stay cold for multiple days. If you wrap the block in a garbage bag, it will last even longer and prevent the rest of the cooler from getting flooded.

Artificial Ice is a great option if you regularly use a cooler, but it can be expensive for larger coolers. However, it is reusable, so it pays for itself after a few uses. Just keep in mind that you will need extra freezer space to chill it, and it takes a while to cool things that are at room temperature, similar to blocks. The major brands like Yeti or Pelican sell their own versions of artificial ice. If you're looking for something cheap and easy, most fishing shops sell gel packs that work well and last long enough if you handle them with care. But be aware that if they break, it's not pleasant to find inside a half-melted cooler.

The best option is to use a combination of cubed ice and either a block or artificial ice. The block/artificial ice will last longer, and the cubes will fill in the gaps, providing better insulation.

When the ice starts to melt, do not drain the water. This is a common mistake. Water actually helps keep the temperature down. The enemy of coolness is air, so the more volume you have inside the cooler, the longer it will stay cold.

The bottom compartment of the Pelican Dayventure easily fits 7 tall cans or a regular 6-pack with ice. Photo: SA

The Best Rolling Cooler for Your Summer Plans

Whether you're looking for an ice chest with wheels, a large cooler with wheels, or a convenient backpack or tote, one of the options above is sure to meet all your needs.

Keep this list handy as you shop for your summertime essentials, and you'll soon find the perfect cooler to keep your food and drinks cold!

Now that you have the best beach cooler, it's time to consider the rest of your summertime plans. Check out this article next for other great items to buy for yourself (or anyone else who loves the beach).

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Advice for Buying a Soft Cooler

Our Thoughts on Soft Coolers: Practicality and Best Uses

Before we delve into the specifics, it's important to note that soft coolers come with certain compromises. Unlike hard-sided models that can keep food and drinks cold for days or even weeks, soft coolers are not designed to maintain cold temperatures for more than a few days at most. They are also generally smaller than hard coolers, typically offering around 30 liters of capacity at most. Therefore, soft coolers are not ideal for multi-day trips, but they excel in weekend getaways, day trips to the park or beach, tailgating, water activities, and quick errands like grocery shopping. They can also be a great addition to larger hard coolers, providing extra space for food and drinks when camping with a larger group.

A selection of our favorite soft coolersIn addition, it's important to differentiate between collapsible designs and rigid soft coolers. In our experience, flexible and packable models like the Hydro Flask 20 L Insulated Tote are more versatile and practical than thicker and rigid options like the Engel HD20. The flexible models lack drainage ports to remove excess water after the ice has melted and cannot be compressed for storage when not in use. They also don't retain ice as long as hard-sided coolers. Additionally, these flexible models tend to be more expensive. This raises the question of why not just buy a similarly priced hard cooler instead? Rigid designs like the Engel are still lighter and more portable than hard coolers, but they do sacrifice durability, insulation, and overall capacity.

Rigid designs like the Engel HD30 and ORCA Walker Tote take up a lot of space

Sizes of Soft Coolers (Capacities)

It's worth noting that not all coolers measure interior capacity in the same way. Some use cans as a unit of measure, while others use liters, quarts, or gallons. Soft coolers typically use "cans" as the most commonly used measurement, while hard coolers are generally listed in quarts. We have used "cans" as the standard unit of measure throughout this article whenever possible. However, there can still be discrepancies to be aware of, particularly regarding whether or not ice is included in the estimated capacity. We have clarified this information in the write-ups and comparison table above. It's important to keep this distinction in mind when shopping for a soft cooler.

For reference, the largest option listed above is the RTIC Soft Pack Cooler, which can hold up to 30 12-ounce cans with ice. On the other hand, the smallest option is Cotopaxi's Hielo 12L Cooler Bag, which can fit up to 12 cans without ice (approximately 8 cans with ice according to Cotopaxi's estimate). In our experience, soft coolers that offer space for around 18-24 cans with ice are often the most practical. These designs are suitable for day trips or weekend road trips, manageable in terms of weight and portability, and do not take up much space in your vehicle or garage.

Hydro Flask's Insulated Tote (left) can hold around 10 cans with ice

Ice Retention and Cooling Abilities

As mentioned earlier, soft coolers do not excel in ice retention. Most soft coolers can only keep contents cold for a day or two at most, under ideal conditions. Various external factors affect ice retention, such as the air temperature, how often the lid is opened, exposure to sunlight, and the ice-to-food ratio (usually recommended at 2:1 by most brands). To maximize performance, you can pre-chill your cooler by filling it with ice for a few hours before loading it up. When you're ready to go, replace the ice with pre-chilled packs or fresh ice in the optimal 2:1 ratio along with your drinks and food.

Most manufacturers recommend a 2:1 ice-to-food ratioMost cooler manufacturers provide a "claimed ice retention" specification in their product listings, although YETI is one major brand that does not. Among the coolers listed above, ice retention times range from 4 hours for the Hydro Flask 20 L Insulated Tote to three or four days for Engel's HD20 (24 hours is the standard). However, it's important to take manufacturer-provided specifications with a grain of salt as they can be exaggerated due to extremely favorable testing conditions. In practical use, you can generally expect to get about half of the claimed ice retention time in real-world conditions.

Helpful cooling tips inside REI Co-op's Cool Haul 24

Weight and Portability

One clear advantage of soft coolers over hard coolers is their significantly lighter weight, making them much easier to carry. Most options weigh between 2 to 4 pounds, with the largest and sturdiest designs weighing 7 pounds or more. For instance, the YETI Hopper M30 is the heaviest model listed at 7 pounds, while collapsible designs like the Hydro Flask 20 L Insulated Tote (1 lb. 5.1 oz.) and Cotopaxi Hielo 12L Cooler Bag (1 lb. 9 oz.) are the lightest. Comfortable shoulder straps and grab handles play a vital role in maximizing portability, as explained in more detail below.

The YETI Hopper M30 can feel heavy and bulky when loaded with food, drinks, and ice at 7 pounds when empty

Construction and Durability

The durability of soft coolers varies widely, and one way to differentiate between models is by looking at the denier (D), which measures fabric thickness. Sturdy designs like the YETI Hopper M30 and Engel HD20 (both 840D) are at the top in terms of durability. These designs have tough exteriors that withstand sharp objects and show minimal signs of wear even with regular use. RovR's new TravelR 30 also stands out for its durability, featuring a strong TPU base and welded seams. Softer and more flexible options like Hydro Flask's 20 L Insulated Tote, Cotopaxi's Hielo 12L Cooler Bag, and REI Co-op's Pack-Away 24 are less rugged but still adequately built for most casual outdoor activities.

YETI's top-end Hopper M30 is extremely durable and long-lastingIt's worth noting that there is a correlation between price and build quality, with budget options like the AO Coolers 24 Pack Canvas, Coleman 24-Hour 16-Can Cooler, and Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze feeling less robust compared to more premium models. These cheaper options may be suitable for occasional use and day trips, but avid outdoor enthusiasts who plan on regular, especially water-related, use will benefit from investing more in a higher-quality cooler.

The AO Coolers 24 Pack Canvas offers decent durability for its priceWaterproof Soft Coolers

While several coolers mentioned above feature highly water-resistant zippers or openings, very few have fully waterproof constructions. One exception is the ICEMULE Classic, which has a dry bag-like shape, an exterior made for submersion, and a roll-top closure. This makes it particularly suitable for activities like kayaking or paddleboarding where it may be exposed to water. It also floats, providing added assurance in rough conditions. RTIC's Soft Pack also falls into this category, and although it is not fully waterproof, its durable shell and leakproof design should hold up well if it gets wet.

 

 Price: Budget vs. Premium Soft Coolers

The price range for soft coolers is considerable, starting as low as $26 for the Coleman 24-Hour 16-Can Cooler and going up to $350 for the top-of-the-line YETI M30. What do you get by spending more? As previously mentioned, there is generally a correlation between durability and cost, with premium designs like the M30, Hopper Flip 12, Engel HD20, and OtterBox Trooper 20 featuring thick and sturdy exteriors that will withstand long-term use. However, even the cheapest options on our list are decently built and will suffice for beach trips or packing lunch on the road, which may be enough for many.

Two of the most premium designs on the market: Engel's HD30 and YETI's Hopper M30Additionally, unlike hard coolers, the difference in ice retention between soft coolers is not significant, making it harder to justify the premium and higher cost. While the top-end designs offer the portability of a soft cooler without compromising on build quality, they may not be worth the investment for most people. If budget permits, it is likely better to opt for a hard-sided cooler, considering the increase in cooling capabilities and overall performance outweighing the weight penalty.

Affordable designs like the REI Cool Haul and Hydro Flask Insulated Tote are still attractive options

Opening Styles and Closure Systems

The opening style and closure system of a soft cooler may not initially seem important, but they greatly affect convenience and overall performance. The styles vary significantly between models. For example, the YETI Hopper M30 has a magnet-equipped opening that is rigid and requires effort to keep open while loading and unloading. In fact, it can be quite challenging to keep the YETI open, as there are YouTube videos specifically addressing this issue (including tips like using your own elbow for support). Many zippered options, like RTIC's Soft Pack and Engel's HD20, also require force to operate the zippers. However, the wraparound design of the RTIC cooler makes it easier to prop the lid open, and these designs are usually extremely leak-resistant.

The YETI Hopper M30's magnetic opening is challenging to keep openA few of our favorite opening styles include the roll-top closure on ICEMULE's Classic and the zipperless design on Arctic Zone's Titan Deep Freeze, which secures closed with strong Velcro. However, it's important to note that while these styles are easier to open and close, they provide a less secure seal than zippered designs and may not insulate as well as a result. Many will be willing to sacrifice some usability for the added security, insulation, and leak-proofing of a more robust opening.

Opening styles vary significantly and impact convenience and insulation capabilities

Carrying Straps and Handles

As mentioned earlier, soft coolers are significantly easier to carry compared to hard coolers. Most soft coolers come with padded straps and thick grab handles, allowing for comfortable solo carrying over the shoulder or by hand. Premium models often have excellent cushioning on the straps, including the YETI Hopper M30, RTIC's Soft Pack Cooler, and Engel's HD20. Budget options with simpler strap systems like those from AO Coolers, Coleman, and Arctic Zone may not be as comfortable for longer distances but are still reasonably portable and sufficient for short walks from the car. Backpack-style coolers like the Hydro Flask 20 L Day Escape are the most convenient to manage, with full harnesses that can be worn like regular daypacks. More details on these coolers can be found in our best backpack cooler article.

We like the integrated carry handle on the ORCA Walker Tote, secured with magnets

Backpack Coolers

For the ultimate in portability, consider a soft-sided backpack-style cooler. These designs mimic hiking daypacks and feature shoulder straps, padded back panels, and exterior pockets for added storage. While backpack coolers are lightweight, easy to carry, and packable, they do not offer the same level of insulation as hard coolers. For example, the Hydro Flask 20 L Day Escape is rated to keep ice frozen for up to 36 hours. Additionally, backpack coolers tend to be more expensive considering their limited storage capacity and overall performance. Nevertheless, if you plan on walking more than half a mile to your picnic spot or fishing location, investing in a backpack cooler may be worthwhile. For more information, check out our article on the best backpack coolers.

Backpack-style coolers offer excellent portability

Additional Features of Soft Coolers

Pockets and Organization

Soft coolers come in various shapes and designs, with many featuring at least one exterior pocket for storing small valuables like a phone, wallet, or keys. These pockets are incredibly useful and help keep track of belongings during day trips or beach outings. Water-resistant pockets are particularly beneficial, providing additional protection against splashes or light rain. Some models with functional stash pockets include the RTIC Soft Pack Cooler, ORCA Walker Tote, and Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze.

The generous front pocket on the ORCA Walker Tote is great for storing a phoneExternal Attachment Points

Many soft coolers, including the YETI Hopper M30 and REI Co-op Cool Haul 24, have daisy chain webbing on the outside for attaching extra gear. This feature is especially useful for keeping valuables like keys easily accessible (using a carabiner to attach them, for example). The stretchy bungee system on the Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze is another convenient attachment point, allowing you to secure a lightweight jacket or small towel on top of the cooler.

External attachment points provide added usabilityOther Features

A few additional features to consider are integrated bottle openers and vacuum ports. Among the coolers listed above, the Engel HD20, Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze, and REI Co-op Cool Haul 24 come with bottle openers. The Engel HD20 also includes a unique vacuum valve that allows you to remove excess air, maximizing insulation power. ICEMULE's Classic has a similar valve system; however, adding air enhances cooling capabilities and buoyancy, while removing air compresses the cooler for storage. Lastly, the Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze includes a shelf for separating hard and soft items, and the REI Cool Haul 24 features a removable inner liner, allowing you to use the shell separately as a tote.

Yeti 18 Soft Cooler

Best Overall Beach Cooler

YETI Tundra Haul Wheeled Cooler

Best Wheeled Beach Cooler

Bespoke Post Chill Box

Best Beach Cooler Set

IceMule Jaunt™ 9L Cooler Backpack

Pros

• Extremely easy to carry
• Appealing color options

Cons

• Relatively small size

Cans and bottles will be more convenient to carry on your back, and IceMule makes one of the top-rated backpack coolers, keeping nine cans plus ice cold for up to 48 hours. It will free up your hands to carry all the other essentials for a beach day. Plus, the vibrant colors scream summer.

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Pros

• Provides indefinite cold retention
• Sleek and stylish appearance
• Allows setting an exact temperature

Cons

• Expensive

If you own a Rivian, one of those new electric F-150s, or are waiting for a Tesla Cybertruck, you probably desire an equally futuristic cooler. Dometic has got you covered with an electric cooler. It can be powered by AC, DC, or Solar power.

Best Beach Cooler Set

Wren Insulated Dry Bag and Cooler

Pros

• Stylish design
• Multiple convenient carrying options
• Easy to clean

Cons

• No backpack carrying option

Rugged and sleek, with plenty of pockets. It utilizes an airtight construction, with roll-top and inflatable insulation, to keep the interior cool for hours. However, what's even cooler? The insulated layer can be removed, making cleaning a breeze.

Body material	500 Denier PVC

Best Beach Backpack Cooler

Carhartt Large Insulated Backpack Tote

Best Tote Bag Cooler

Coleman 62-Quart Wheeled Hard Cooler

Pros

• Affordable price
• Large wheels for easier mobility, even on sand

Cons

• Ice retention may not match that of more expensive coolers

This is the quintessential cooler, to be honest. Every cookout or backyard barbecue has featured at least one of these, and for good reason. They're affordable, reliable, and can be purchased in almost any town in America. The cooler for everyone.

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Pros

• Impressive vintage appearance
• Decent ice retention

Cons

• Challenging to carry

There's probably old family photos of your dad sitting on one of these. While buying this isn't as cool as owning that one, it's a close second. The advantage is that this newer version has gone through a few decades of updates, so the technology has improved.

Material	Plastic with stainless steel trim

Best Tote Bag Cooler

Stanley Adventure Easy Carry 16 Qt Outdoor Cooler

Best Vintage Beach Cooler.

RTIC 32 QT Ultra-Light Cooler

Pros

• Under $200
• Several unique colors to choose from
• Weighs just above 20 pounds
• Built-in bottle opener on the side

Cons

• Have to add-on basket and divider separately for the 32 QT

RTIC's 32 QT Ultra-Light Cooler is the perfect option for small gatherings. It's designed to be lightweight, and according to RTIC, it's about 30% lighter than most hard-molded coolers on the market. Our testing confirmed this claim, making this cooler the lightest option available right now.

The Ultra-Light Cooler also features durable carrying handles, secure sealing latches, and a convenient built-in bottle opener. At under $200, this cooler is a great deal.

Dimensions	Weight	Volume
14.5 x 23 x 15.5 inch	21 lbs	48 cans

Pros

• Strong 840 denier double TPU outer material
• Waterproof zippers
• Neatly holds up to 20 cans
• Rugged design

Cons

• Expensive

ORCA coolers have a reputation for their strength and durability. While we appreciate their hard cooler lineup, we find the Laka 20 to be an excellent compact cooler for easy transport. It can hold up to 20 cans and is made from adventure-grade 840 denier double TPU material. The features of this cooler include a magnetic split handle, a soft carrying strap, and waterproof zippers. If you're looking for a personal cooler with all the bells and whistles, the Laka 20 is a great choice.

Dimensions	Weight	Volume
14.5 x 11 x 13.25 inch	3.6 lbs	20 cans

Pros

• Compact size makes for better storage in tight spaces
• Polyurethane thermal barrier keeps ice cold for days
• Tons of colors available
• Under $200

Cons

• No side latch handles. Have to mainly carry by the single handle.

The Coleman 316 Series Insulated Portable Cooler is another great option for those on a budget. This portable cooler is perfect for outdoor adventures and can be found for under $100.

Best Packable Cooler: ICEMULE Jaunt 15L ()

Insulation: Muleskin (Proprietary to Icemule)

Capacity: 15 cans (with ice)

Weight: 2 lbs

Pros: Packs up for easy storage, waterproof, floats.

Cons: Ice retention not great after 24 hours.

The ICEMULE Jaunt 15L cooler is a stylish and comfortable backpack that also keeps drinks cold. This waterproof backpack can float if needed, making it perfect for beach vacations. ICEMULE coolers are known for their high performance and durability.

The 15L version of the Jaunt series can easily hold a 12-pack with ice or even 4 wine bottles. With premium lining and an inflatable air pocket for extra insulation, this cooler rivals many hard coolers in terms of ice retention. It's also easy to carry on your back and can be rolled up and stashed away when not in use. The bonus pocket in the front keeps your belongings safe and dry.

ICEMULE also offers a smaller 9L version for those who need even more portability, as well as a 20L version that is eco-friendly. However, the 15L version strikes the perfect balance between capacity and size.

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ICEMULE Boss ($375)

Insulation: Foam

Capacity: 24 cans (with ice) extra pockets = 30L

Weight: 6.6 lbs

Pros: Ergonomic, durable, great ice retention.

Cons: Pricey. Size to capacity ratio isn’t great.

The ICEMULE Boss is not only fully waterproof and offers unbelievable ice retention, but it's also a spacious backpack that can carry a lot. The shoulder straps and back padding make it comfortable to carry even when full. You can fit up to 24 cans (with ice) in the main compartment, but you can add even more weight depending on your strength. The waterproof side compartments and larger back compartment offer additional storage for supplies like a first aid kit, dry food, and sunscreen.

In addition to its cooler function, the ICEMULE Boss also provides external storage options such as webbing for a rain jacket, clip loops on the bottom, and 16 loops on the side. This backpack is versatile and can carry much more than just cold drinks. It's a durable and reliable option.

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Best Powered Cooler: Anker EverFrost (9)

Insulation: Plastic

Capacity: 38 cans (33 L)

Weight: 49 lbs

Pros: Includes power bank for recharging devices. No ice needed.

Cons: Heavy. Needs a power source to recharge.

When it comes to powered coolers, new options seem to be appearing every day. However, none of them check as many boxes as the brand-new EverFrost cooler by Anker. Anker, known for their power stations and mobile charging units, has entered the cooler market by offering a product that does much more than just keeping things chilled. In fact, this cooler can even be used as a freezer, with a temperature setting as low as 4°F. Connect it to a solar panel and you'll have virtually unlimited cold storage time. We've thoroughly tested it for 3 months, including exposing it to sand and salt in a remote west coast beach, and it performed flawlessly.

The EverFrost features a removable 299Wh battery, so you can use it to charge your devices even when you're not using it as a cooler. The accessories that come with it are also worth mentioning. The unit includes durable wheels and a fold-out shelf that can be used as a cutting board or for food preparation. It even has a built-in bottle opener for those moments when you need it most. However, due to the weight of the compressor, it is quite heavy, which affects its portability score.

If you're interested in the Anker EverFrost powered cooler, you can check the price on Anker's official website. It's definitely a top contender in the powered cooler category.

Best Budget Cooler: Maelstrom Backpack Cooler ($40)

Insulation: Polyester

Capacity: 35 cans (32 L), front pocket for cutlery and dishes

Weight: 0.95 lbs

Pros: Leakproof, Large capacity for a backpack

Cons: Ice doesn't last longer than an afternoon. Materials aren't ultra-durable.

There are many coolers available in the low budget range, but we found the Maelstrom Backpack Cooler to offer a decent combination of features for a good day at the beach. It effectively keeps drinks cold for a solid afternoon and can last up to 7 hours without ice, as long as you don't open it frequently. Adding a bit of ice will extend its cooling capabilities. The extra pockets are well-designed, with the front pocket providing space for dishes and cutlery for a perfect beach date. While this cooler may not have premium materials, considering the price, it is sturdy and durable enough to last a long time if properly taken care of.

To get the best deal on the Maelstrom Backpack Cooler, you can check the price on Amazon.

Longest Ice Retention: RTIC 65 QT Hard Cooler ($250)

Insulation: 3 inch foam

Capacity: 65 qt (64 cans and ice)

Weight: 36 lbs

Pros: Long-lasting ice retention, lower price than comparable models.

Cons: Can be tough to move single-handed when fully loaded.

RTIC claims that their 65 QT Hard Cooler is the best cooler on the market, and it certainly lives up to the claim when it comes to keeping things cold for an extended period. With its three-inch insulated walls, this cooler can keep your ice frozen for days. Similar to Yeti, it features rotomolded construction, making it incredibly durable. The 65 QT cooler comes with heavy-duty T-latches, a freezer-grade gasket, no-fail hinges, a no-sweat exterior, cool lift design, molded side handles, and tie-downs to secure it in place.

RTIC also offers a 45 QT version if the 65 QT is too large for your needs. However, in terms of the best value for your money, we believe the 65 QT is the better choice.

To find the best price on the RTIC 65 QT Hard Cooler, you can check both Amazon and RTIC's official website.

Best Extras: Igloo Trailmate Wheeled Cooler ($280)

Insulation: Foam

Capacity: 112 cans (without ice)

Weight: 34.7 lbs

Pros: Easy to maneuver, great for attaching extras such as a fishing rod.

Cons: Size to capacity ratio isn't great.

Igloo has been a staple in the cooler market for a long time, known for their ability to keep things cold. The Trailmate cooler is no exception, offering reliable cooling performance along with a few extra features. The oversized 10-inch wheels give it the appearance of an off-road vehicle on ice. It features a glide handle, making it 50 percent easier to pull the cooler thanks to the comfort and leverage of the locking, telescoping, horizontal handle.

This cooler can retain ice for up to four days and comes with a butler tray that stores under the lid and sits on the handle for easy use. Additionally, it has a food tray to keep food items cool but not soggy, a holder for a fishing rod, and can holders on the top. The Trailmate cooler stands out with its abundance of features that other coolers in this category often lack.

It's important to note that the Trailmate cooler may be a bit awkward to carry, so keep that in mind when considering its size-to-capacity ratio. Overall, it's a well-built cooler that will serve you well during your beach outings.

To get the best deal on the Igloo Trailmate Wheeled Cooler, you can check the price on Amazon or REI.

Best Heavy-Duty Hard Cooler: Pelican Elite 65 Wheeled Cooler ($520)

Insulation: Injection-molded polyurethane

Capacity: 65 qt (64 cans and ice)

Weight: 53 lbs

Pros: Wildlife-proof closure, virtually indestructible.

Cons: Bulky, still heavy even with wheels due to its length.

Pelican is known for more than just coolers, with a reputation for providing reliable storage solutions across various industries. Their Elite 65 Wheeled Cooler continues the tradition of sturdy and durable products. With its 2" polyethelene insulation and rugged wheels, this cooler can keep your items cold for days. It's built to withstand harsh conditions, making it an excellent option for large-scale cooler needs such as beach parties or deep-sea fishing missions. While the price may be higher than some other options, rest assured that this cooler will last for years, whether you're at the beach, on a boat, in the desert, or anywhere else you may venture.

Pelican also offers a range of accessories that allow you to customize their coolers even further, so be sure to check them out as well.

To find the best price on the Pelican Elite 65 Wheeled Cooler, you can check Pelican's official website.

Dual Compartments: Pelican Dayventure Backpack Cooler ($290)

Insulation: Closed-cell foam

Capacity: 19 qt

Weight: 3 lbs

Pros: Durable nylon exterior. Able to keep drinks cold and food hot.

Cons: Bottom compartment, although the most insulated, is also the smallest.

When it comes to keeping food and drinks separate, the Pelican Dayventure Backpack Cooler has you covered. This backpack cooler is designed with padded shoulders to withstand heavy loads and features a bottom compartment that can hold a six-pack of bottles with ice or seven tall cans. The high-density closed-cell foam insulation ensures that your drinks stay cold until you reach your destination and beyond. The second, larger insulated pocket can be used to keep food hot or sushi cold.

With the included straps and attachment points, you'll have plenty of room to add a beach blanket for sunset dates or carry enough food and drinks for a long day at the beach.

To get the best price on the Pelican Dayventure Backpack Cooler, you can check Pelican's official website.

Most Stylish Cooler: The Pouch by Kanga Coolers ()

Insulation: Neoprene

Capacity: 12 cans

Weight: 1 lb

Pros: Easy to move around, can slip a 12-pack straight into it.

Cons: Won't stay cold longer than an afternoon.

The Pouch by Kanga Coolers is not only effective at keeping things cold, but it also looks stylish, making it a great accessory. If you only need your drinks to stay cool for a few hours and don't want to deal with ice, this cooler is the perfect option. It can keep a six-pack of bottles or a 12-pack of cans cool for up to seven hours without ice, which is quite impressive.

If you want your drinks to stay cold for a longer period, you can always add ice. For those who need to carry more than a 12-pack of cans, the Kase Mate by Kanga Coolers can hold up to 30 cans. Additionally, for every purchase of a Kanga Cooler, a tree is planted to help offset carbon emissions.

To find the best price on The Pouch by Kanga Coolers, you can check Amazon.

Caring For Your Beach Cooler

A good beach cooler is a valuable investment in maintaining freshness and enjoying cold beverages after a surf session or a long day on the sand. Taking proper care of your cooler will help prolong its lifespan for years to come. Here are a few tips to ensure that your beach cooler remains in excellent condition:

Clean the cooler after each use: After each use, thoroughly clean your cooler with soap and water to prevent the growth of bacteria or mold inside. If there are stubborn stains, a mixture of baking soda and water can be used for cleaning. Avoid using harsh chemicals that may shorten the lifespan of the cooler.

Dry the cooler completely: Before storing your cooler, ensure that it is completely dry. This will prevent the growth of mold or mildew. You can use a towel or allow the cooler to air dry in a shaded area.

Store the cooler properly: When not in use, store your cooler in a cool and dry place. This will prevent any damage to the insulation or other components of the cooler. Avoid storing the cooler in direct sunlight or in damp areas where mold and mildew can thrive.

Avoid overloading: Do not overload your cooler with excessive weight, as this can damage the insulation or other components. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for weight capacity to ensure the longevity of your cooler. Your back will also appreciate a lighter load.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your beach cooler remains in excellent condition, providing you with many more enjoyable beach outings.

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When it comes to beach days, having a reliable and efficient cooler is a game-changer. From keeping your drinks icy cold to storing your snacks, the right cooler can make all the difference. With a wide range of options available, such as the YETI Tundra Haul Wheeled Cooler or the Coleman 62-Quart Wheeled Hard Cooler, you can find the perfect fit for your summer plans. Whether you're looking for a soft cooler, a backpack cooler, or a heavy-duty hard cooler, there's something out there for everyone. So don't let your beach day be spoiled by warm drinks or melted treats. Invest in a high-quality insulated cooler and enjoy your sunny adventures with peace of mind.