The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Perfect Cooler for Tailgating: Unveiling Top Picks Based on Storage Space, Mobility, Variety of Colors, Easy Access Lid, Waterproof Features, Ice

Are you ready to take your tailgating game to the next level? Look no further, because we've got the ultimate guide to finding the best cooler for tailgating! Whether you're a die-hard sports fan, a music festival enthusiast, or simply enjoy outdoor gatherings with friends, having a top-notch cooler by your side is essential. From storage space to waterproofing, and everything in between, this article will delve into the key features that make a cooler perfect for any tailgating event. So, hold on tight and get ready to discover the coolest companion for your next outdoor adventure!

Storage Space

When considering a cooler for your tailgate, it's important to think about how much space you'll need for your items as well as how much space the cooler itself will take up. Depending on the location of your tailgate, space might be limited, so having a large cooler that occupies valuable area can be inconvenient. That's why it's worth finding a cooler that is optimally-shaped for storage and can be easily stored out of the way. Additionally, it's helpful to have a cooler with specific spacing that can accommodate typical tailgate items.

Mobility

While some people can park their vehicle right next to the tailgate area, in many cases you'll have to carry your cooler for some distance. Therefore, having a tailgating cooler that is easy to move is quite useful. This doesn't necessarily mean it has to have wheels (although that can be helpful!), but having a strong, easy-to-use handle that can be used by multiple people is definitely a plus.

Variety of Colors

Having a cooler that matches your team's colors is a nice touch. Some cooler brands even offer coolers with your favorite team's logo on them! You can find a list of our favorite colored and team-oriented coolers here if you want more detailed information on colored tailgating coolers.

Easy Access Lid

Since you'll often be carrying both food and drinks and may need them at different times, having a lid that is easy to access and minimizes exposure to outside air is important. A popular design feature is a "lid within a lid" that allows you to access items without fully opening the larger lid. The less exposure the cool air inside the cooler has to the warmer outside air, the better, as this can significantly impact how long your ice will last.

Waterproof

Unfortunately, sometimes Mother Nature doesn't cooperate when we're enjoying our favorite sports team. It's important to have an ice chest that won't lose performance when it gets rained on, especially if you're storing food inside that you don't want to get wet. If you typically tailgate under a tent, this might not be as big of a concern, so approach this specification on a case-by-case basis.

Ice Life

Tailgates can last all day, often in the hot sun, so having a cooler with sufficient ice life is important. Additionally, tailgate coolers are typically opened more frequently compared to camping trips or lunch excursions, as people often need refills on their drinks or grab food and snacks to cook. Therefore, it's important to have a cooler that can maintain cold air and quickly recover when opened. However, a cooler that promises 7-day ice life may be excessive since most gatherings last a maximum of 24 hours. The ice life will depend on the location of the cooler (exposed to the sun or shaded) and how often you anticipate it being opened.

Accessories

Having helpful gadgets, such as built-in cup holders and embedded bottle openers, can be quite handy, especially if your chair doesn't have a cup holder or if you tend to misplace your bottle opener. Some sturdier tailgating coolers can even double as an additional seat or table when space is limited or there aren't enough chairs for everyone.

In conclusion, when it comes to selecting the best cooler for tailgating, there are certain key factors to consider. From ample storage space and easy mobility to a variety of colors and a user-friendly lid, these coolers are designed to enhance your tailgating experience. With their superior waterproofing capabilities and impressive ice life, you can trust that your beverages and snacks will remain cold for the entire duration of the event. Additionally, the availability of accessories further adds convenience and customization to your tailgate setup. So, whether you're a seasoned tailgater or a newcomer to the game, investing in a top-notch cooler that ticks all these boxes is an absolute must for a successful and enjoyable outing.