You don’t need to require a large size cooler for every outdoor adventure. A small cooler is enough if you are planning a short trip. Also, if you are not planning to go farther, a small cooler will do in that case as well. A small, personal cooler is quite portable than a normal-sized cooler, which means they have added convenience for you. As the technology is getting more advanced, several brands are now coming up with their respective coolers; thus giving buyers a good range of options.
They are an ideal pick for anyone who wants to go out on a tailgating party or adventure trip or undertake a solo traveling trip. Apart from that, these coolers can be used as a substitute for your lunchboxes. Mini ice chest or personal cooler offers the perfect solution for people who want to pack their lunch when they go to work. Small ice chests can easily fit your lunch and drinks, but at the same time, they are easy to carry and don’t become your burden.
So, your search for the best small cooler ends here as we have jotted down the best options that should be on your radar. Our best coolers list covers models from various household names, including Yeti, Canyon, and many more. So, please take a look at them and find the best pick for yourself.
Contents
Top 5 Best Small Coolers Comparison Table
Last update on 2023-09-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
16 Best Small/Personal Coolers Review
After considerable research, we have chosen some of the best Personal Coolers out of all the available products we have as of now.
1. Yeti Hopper Flip Portable Cooler
- Dryhide Shell – Yeti Hopper Flip is designed using Dryhide Shell, which is why these coolers can hold up well against anything. The fabric is resistant to water and resists punctures easily.
- Coldcell Insulation –. Coldcell Insulation is the reason behind its great ability to retain ice.
- Hydro lock Zipper – Yeti Flip Portable cooler features Hydro Lock Zipper, which is quite smooth, toughest. These zippers are also leakproof.
- Yeti Sidekick Dry – For additional storage, this cooler features a waterproof case where you can stash all your important stuff and keep them handy. You can put your wallet. Keys always secure.
- Product Dimensions – 15.8 x 10.2 x 12.6 inches.
- Item Weight – 7.4 pounds.
- Average Customer Review – 4.2 out of 5 stars (279 customer reviews).
- Amazon Best Sellers Rank – #8 in Camping Coolers.
- Branded quality by the renowned Yeti.
- Generously padded shoulder strap.
- Molle elastic straps along with Velcro patch for odds and ends.
- Quite costly.
- The lid is wayward and won’t stay open.
Last update on 2023-09-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
2. Coleman FlipLid Personal Cooler
EZ- Clean Lid – The lid is quite easy to clean, and you will be all set for your next adventure in a jiffy. Just take a damp cloth and wipe it off. Thanks to its smooth structure, cleaning is no longer a hassle.
Bail Handle – Bail handles make carrying this less of a task.
- Product Dimensions – 8.1 x 7.2 x 10.7 inches.
- Item Weight – 1.83 pounds.
- Average Customer Review – 4.4 out of 5 stars (693 customer reviews).
- Amazon Best Seller Rank – #6 in Camping Coolers.
- Can hold up to six cans of drinks.
- The handle can be carried by a single hand.
- Great for making clear ice.
- Lack of insulation.
- Lid and handle of questionable durability.
Last update on 2023-09-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
3. Stanley Adventure Mini Cooler
- Rugged Latches and handles for easy carrying.
- It can hold 21 cans easily.
- 2.5x times better foam than ordinary cooler.
- Product Dimensions – 18 x 14 x 20 inches ; 9.4 pounds
- Shipping Weight – 4.5 pounds
- Average Customer Review – 4.4 out of 5 stars (608 customer reviews)
- Amazon Best Sellers Rank – #114 in Camping Coolers
- Can keep items cold for 27-36 hours.
- Comes in two sizes, a 7 quart and 16 quarts.
- It can hold 21 cans of drinks.
- Double foam insulation on body and lid.
- Adjustable tie-down.
- Leak-resistant gaskets with hinges.
- Easy fix to the cons below.
- Flips over. A lot.
- The plastic handle can be too thin and break.
Last update on 2023-09-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
4. Yitour Insulated Small Soft Cooler Bag
- Insulated function – 7-layers insulated material keeps the cooler bag temperature at least 9-12 hours.
- Keep fresh long time – Yitour soft cooler bag padded with 15mm EPE foam and the food-grade aluminum film keeps stuff much fresher and cold for at least 15 hours.
- Premium material – Combine with scratch-resistance oxford cloth,15 MM PE Foam, Aluminium film, and super-durable two-way stainless steel zipper.
- Multiple pockets – The soft cooler bag can be carried by hand or sh Multiple pockets:1 top mesh pocket,2 side mesh pocket, and 1 front pocket can store necessities, such as napkins, cell phones, keys, wallets, cutlery, etc. oulder strap.
- Extra large capacity – Large enough for drinking,fruit,food,etc.
- Product Dimensions – 20.1 x 15 x 14.6 inches.
- Item Weight – 6.05 pounds.
- Customer Reviews – 4.2 out of 5 stars (9 customer reviews).
- Best Sellers Rank – #429 in Camping Coolers.
- 7 layers of insulation and protection.
- 4 mesh pockets.
- Waterproof fabric and a three-year warranty.
- Only protects food for 12 hours.
- No zipper on the top.
5. Mojecto Mini Cooler Bag
Next is one kind that can be used both as a soft liner bag and hardliner bag. Mojecto Mini Cooler Bag is highly durable as it is made with tear-resistant polyester fabric. Mojecto Mini Cooler Bag offers plenty of space to keep your food and beverages at a close temperature. With this cooler, you get two insulated compartments that feature thick insulation to keep your food chilled. Also, the company has given a shoulder strap, and side handles as per your convenience. Also, there are side pockets to keep your important things like your wallet, keys.
Features & Specification
- This cooler is designed using tear-resistant quality fabric.
- The cooler features shoulder straps for comfortable portage.
- Side pockets are there to provide additional space.
- Both the compartments are well insulated.
- Polyester outside, high-density foam insulation, Peva lining.
- Pockets to carry bottles, phones, wallets, and other items.
- Premium grade zippers.
- Anti-slip shoulder straps.
- Cannot take loose ice. Only ice packs or ice gels.
Last update on 2023-09-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
6. Grizzly 20 Quart Personal Cooler
Grizzly has been making some of the toughest small coolers in the industry. Grizzly 20 Quart Personal Cooler is one of the most trustworthy coolers available today with super amazing specifications. It is a bear-proof cooler, this means that it is your perfect partner for your adventures in the wild, as your food and drinks are safe from the potential harm of animals. The biggest thing is that it is budget-friendly as well. Rubber gasket lid, carrying handles for portability are just a few things that make this cooler simply amazing. Check out some of the best features of this best mini cooler. This personal cooler has all the bells and whistles you can imagine.
Features of Grizzly 20 Quart Mini Cooler
- Portability – Since the cooler comes with stainless steel carry handles, it becomes quite portable to move around the cooler.
- Non-Skid Rubber Feet – This mini cooler comes with Non-skid rubber feet to prevent any scratches. The cooler won’t slide from the place where you will keep it.
- Rubber Gasket – This personal cooler from Grizzly is designed with a rubber gasket for durability.
- Product Dimensions – 14.5 x 20 x 13.5 inches
- Item Weight – 16 pounds
- Customer Reviews – 4.4 out of 5 ( 51 Customer Reviews)
- In terms of performance, this best personal cooler from Grizzly delivers exceptional performance and keeps all your stuff cold.
- The cooler is light-weight, and the addition of carrying handles makes it more portable.
- The aesthetics of the coolers are amazing.
- The quality of the cooler can be a little doubtful.
Last update on 2023-09-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
7. Canyon Scout 22 Quart Mini Cooler
As we move further, the competition gets tougher because the next cooler is also very tough and made to withstand rough physical and environmental conditions. Canyon Coolers are famous for their strong coolers that are lightweight as well. The Scout 22 Quarts is none different. Featuring some major tweaks, the cooler is built stronger than ever. You don’t have to think twice before carrying this cooler to anywhere you want to. Let’s check out some of the amazing features of this personal cooler.
Features & Specifications Canyon Scout 22 Quart Mini Cooler
- Portable – Canyon Cooler Scout 22 Quart remains one of the most versatile and best mini coolers that one can own. Thanks to the addition of a shoulder strap, you can simply carry it over your shoulder.
- Ice Retention – If we talk about ice retention, this cooler amazes us with its performance. With the ice retention of up to 2 days, this cooler will keep your stuff cold.
- Dimension – 18.3 x 18.3 x 15.3 inches.
- Product Weight – 16.2 pounds.
- Customer Reviews – 4.9 out of 5 stars ( 11 Customer Reviews).
- The cooler does a perfect job of maintaining the ice and keeping your food cold.
- The added insulation is another reason behind the durability of the cooler.
- Non-slip shoulder strap makes it more versatile.
- You don’t have enough choices when it comes to coolers.
8. Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze Personal Cooler
Why worry when you have this amazing and super tough small cooler by Arctic Zone. Titan Deep Freeze Mini Cooler is built with rotomolded technology and is made of supreme quality thick polyurethane insulation with ice retention for up to 4 days; this means if you are planning to go for a bit longer trip, you can rely on this cooler to keep your food fresh and drinks chilled. So gear up for your next adventure, and don’t forget to carry all your supplies in the cooler.
Features & Specifications of Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze Personal Cooler
- Handles & Grip – It comes with a nice grip in-build attached stainless steel handles.
- Rubber Gasket – It offers a 360-degree gasket made up of rubber.
- T-Latches – It features firm corrosion-free t-latches.
- Ice Retention – For up to 4 days.
- Drain – Offers a large-sized drain for quick draining.
- Product Dimensions – 21.3 x 14 x 13 inches.
- Item Weight – 16.6 pounds.
- Customer Reviews – 4.4 out of 5 ( 12 customers reviews)
- Corrosion-free t-latches.
- Oversized drain.
- Stainless Steel handles.
- Ice retention up to 4 days.
- Prices are on the higher side.
- Heavy.
Last update on 2023-09-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
9. Driftsun 20-Quart Mini Cooler
More Stronger. More Tougher – Just like your plans! Never compromise with the coolers during your adventure outdoors. Driftsun cooler is made to offer you chilled beverages and more without thinking much about the unbearable summer heat. Enjoy it like your mini-fridge and store up to 7-10 days without any hassle. Teeming with features, this personal cooler is sure to give your camping trip a new meaning.
Features & Specifications Driftsun 20-Quart Mini Cooler
- Bottle Opener – It comes with the in-build bottle opener.
- Material – Rotomolded Thermoplastic and UV protection material
- Latches – Firm ColdSeal Latches made up of Rubber
- Gasket – Thermal Lock Freeze Style Gasket
- Outside Dimensions – 21″(L) x 13″(W) x 14.5″(H)
- Inside Dimensions – 14″(L) x 8″(W) x 10″(H)
- Cooler Weight – 14.5 Lbs.
- Ice Retention – 7-10 Days
- Warranty – 1 Year Manufacturer Warranty
- Customer Reviews – 4.1 out of 5 ( 22 Customer Reviews)
- Freezer style rubber gasket.
- UV protected material.
- Great Handle Grip.
- Multi-colors.
- Multi draining options.
- Little Heavy.
Last update on 2023-09-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
10. BISON Small Cooler 25 Quart
If you’re looking for a portable, heavy-duty build material mini cooler, then Bison is no more left behind to offer you the best in this segment. Just drive your jeep over it! Yes, that’s what Bison claims to give you assurity of its material. Bison surprises skeptics by offering a 30-day trial period, just send it back if you don’t like this product and get the 100% cashback
Features & Specifications BISON Mini Cooler 25 Quart
- Multi-purpose utility – A multipurpose cooler suitable for fishing, sports events, camping, and more.
- Gasket – Double-walled gasket made up of silicon for compact seal.
- Latches – It comes with two firm latches made up of rubber and with a cantilever hinge system.
- Warranty & Trial – It comes with 30 Days trial and a Warranty of 5 years.
- Exterior dimension – 20.5″ x 17.5″ x 15″
- Interior dimension – 12.25″ x 11.3″ x 10″
- Dry weight – 20 lbs
- Customer Reviews – 4.9 out of 5 ( 44 Customer Reviews)
- 5- Year Warranty.
- It comes with large-sized drain plugs.
- It has an integrated fish ruler.
- Cantilever latches.
- Made in the USA.
- Very Heavy.
Last update on 2023-09-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
11. K2 Coolers Summit 30 Cooler
Another rotomolded cooler that is made to last longer and to withstand harsh conditions is the K2 Cooler. When you go out in the woods or the mountains, you want your gear to be tough and durable because you don’t know what might surprise you when outdoors. This is why coolers like this are a great option for any outdoor excursion. Talking about ice retention, this cooler comes with thick insulation to retain ice for a longer period. K2 Summit series has been a mammoth hit, and the brand proudly stands behind its products. This small ice chest cooler is incorporated with ICEVAULT™ Gasket that does not let air escape through the cooler since it creates a solid lid. Apart from this, there are plenty of additional features you get when you buy this cooler.
Features of K2 Coolers Summit 30 Cooler
- Roto-molded constructions provide durability.
- The handles are sturdy.
- ICEVAULT™ Gasket creates a solid lid and does not let the air enter inside the cooler.
Specifications:
- Exterior dimension – 20.3 x 18.3 x 16.4 inches
- Weight – 19 Pounds
- Capacity – 30 Quart
- Rotomolded construction makes this tent durable, tough and sturdy.
- Ice retention is amazing.
- Plenty of space to fill your content.
- Very Heavy when you fill this cooler
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12. nICE 20 Qt Cooler
The search for a high-quality personal cooler ends here, nICE 20 Qt cooler is just the right pick. This cooler is made with high-quality material that makes this cooler highly durable, tough, and bear-proof. This means that it doesn’t matter where you plan your trip to; you can rely on this cooler for all your campaigns. This cooler comes with double-wall insulation and lets you retain ice for 8 days. Talking about the space, this cooler can store 30 cans, and there is a built-in bottle opener for the added convenience. Apart from that, this 20 Quart cooler comes with a ruler to let you measure your fish. There are heavy-duty aluminum handles that make carrying this cooler easy and portable. Adding more to your convenience, there are built-in cup holders, so you always have your drinks handy. It is, in fact, one of the best small coolers you can look for. Take a look at the features and specifications of the nICE 20 Qt Cooler:
Features of K2 Coolers Summit 30 Cooler
- IGBC Certified and bear-resistant.
- Built-in Bottle Opener and Cup holder for added convenience.
- Extra-Thick Walls for Ice Retention, and it can retain ice for 6-8 days.
- Heavy-duty handles for portability.
Specifications:
- Exterior dimension – 14.1 x 7.8 x 9.8 inches
- Weight – 16.8 Pounds
- Capacity – 20 Quart
- This small ice chest cooler is sturdily designed.
- Keeps Ice for a longer period.
- Built-in bottle openers are there.
- Rubber Latches are broken easily.
Last update on 2023-09-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
13. Yeti Roadie 20
Since the time it was introduced, this “Roadie” Series from Yeti has been so popular among the campers. As far as the internal storage capacity is concerned, it can easily hold 14 cans inside it. This personal cooler is designed using fat wall constructions, which is why this cooler is bear-resistant. What makes it even sturdy is that it is designed using roto-molded construction, making it virtually indestructible. This small size cooler from Yeti is visually appealing. This cooler brags about the great ice retention that can keep ice for many days. This camping cooler is engineered to make it waterproof, and it is designed using heavy-duty material. This cooler prevents the cool air from leaking, thanks to the amazing interlocked lid system. Above all, it is very lightweight, which means you can easily carry this cooler on your own.
Features of Yeti Roadie 20
- Extra thick FatWall design makes this bear-resistant.
- Rotomolded construction makes it durable and sturdy.
- The interlock Lid System creates a solid lid that does not let air enter the cooler.
- Heavy Duty Latches
- Lightweight and portable.
- Non-skid feet prevent this cooler from sliding.
- Lip grip handles offer a solid grip and comfort while you carry this cooler.
Specifications:
- Dimensions – 19 x 13 3/4 x 14 3/8
- Weight – 15.98 pounds
- Capacity – 20 Quarts
Pros & Cons
- Rotomolded construction makes this cooler more durable and sturdy.
- Fatwall Design makes this cooler bear-resistant, which means wild animals can’t do any damage to your cooler.
- Great Ice retention and can keep ice frozen for days.
- A bit heavy when you load your content inside the cooler.
- A bit expensive.
Last update on 2023-09-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
14. Engel Coolers HD30
Engel cooler has carved out a niche for itself as one of the best brands. This small cooler from Engel is visually appealing. This soft-sided cooler brags about the great ice retention that can keep ice longer for days. The design and the made of this cooler makes it waterproof.
The manufacturers have given three different ways to carry this cooler at your convenience. This cooler is also equipped with vacuum valve technology that prevents the cold air from leaking from inside and retains ice for a longer period. When it comes to space, this cooler has an amazing capacity of 32 quarts so that you don’t run short on food and beverages. Take a look at the features, specifications, pros, and cons of this cooler:
Features of Engel Cooler HD 30
- Capacity to hold 32 Quarts.
- 3 ways to carry this cooler – Side handles, top handles, shoulder straps.
- Vacuum Valve Technology is present to maximize the ice retention ability of this cooler.
- Integrated Bottle Opener to keep your drinks handy.
Specifications:
- Dimensions – 20 x 16 x 10
- Weight – 15 pounds
- Capacity – 30 Quarts
Pros & Cons
- Waterproof compartment.
- This cooler is quite portable because of the addition of shoulder straps, side handles, top handles.
- There is an integrated Bottle Opener for added convenience.
- Ice Retention is amazing.
- Zippers can get easily broken if you are not cautious.
15. Pelican Elite 20 Quart Cooler
This is a sturdy and robust small ice chest cooler designed by Pelican that boasts of extreme Ice Retention no matter where you carry it. This cooler has a capacity of 20 quarts, which means you can easily load 15 cans inside it. Thanks to the polyurethane insulation, this cooler delivers exceptional performance and keeps ice for a longer duration. Whether you are going on a family trip or a weeklong getaway, this cooler is designed to offer every bit of comfort. As far as mobility is considered, this cooler has over-molded handles that remove pressure from your palms. Also, the tie-down slot to make the cooler stable. Check out the features and specifications of this cooler:
Features of Engel Cooler HD 30
- There are over-molded handles for easy carrying.
- Tie-down slots to make cooler stable.
- Great Ice Retention and can keep ice for 2-3 days.
- Ample space to hold 15 cans of beer.
- Built-in Bottle Opener to keep your drinks handy.
- 3-inch locking latches maximize ice retention.
Specifications:
- Dimensions -18.8 x 12.6 x 17.7
- Weight – 10 pounds
- Capacity – 20 Quarts
Pros & Cons
- This cooler comes with a life-time warranty.
- Keeps your thing cold for a longer period, even on extreme days.
- There is a built-in opener as well.
- Latches do their work great.
- Difficult to carry by one person.
Last update on 2023-09-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
16. ENGEL USA Cooler 13 Quart
Engel’s cooler might seem compact, but this is an excellent choice for the campers looking for a solid and robust cooler that can withstand any collapse. As far as the inner capacity is concerned, this cooler can contain 18 cans and some ice. The polystyrene insulation makes it an incredible cooler that retains ice for a longer period. Designed using stainless steel and marine-grade, this cooler is robust. This cooler features ergonomic handles that offer superior grip to your hands for mobility, and lifting this cooler is less of a struggle. What is more, these coolers are waterproof up to a depth of 3 feet. Take a look at the features and specifications of this cooler:
Features of Engel 13 Quart Cooler
- Ergonomic handles so that carrying or transporting the cooler is easy.
- Designed using Marine Grade Hardware to offer a robust design.
- Ice Retention is great, thanks to polystyrene insulation.
- This cooler comes with a built-in tray to store items.
Specifications:
- Dimensions – 12 x 7 x 8.5 inches
- Exterior Dimension – 15″ x 10″ x 11″
- Capacity – 13 Quarts
Pros & Cons
- Built in tray to store items.
- Ice retention is amazing.
- Solid, sturdy, and robust to withstand any collapse.
- Storage space can be felt low.
Advantages of Small Coolers
Thanks to the fact that these coolers are easy to carry, you can take them with you wherever you go, whether it’s to work or to a sporting event.
1) They are Smaller – These coolers are perfect coolers for traveling or if you are going out for a few days. Since these coolers are lightweight, they are easy to carry around; apart from that, they offer more space than the traditional coolers used for lunch boxes.
2) Balanced Temperature – No matter what you are filling inside the cooler, the best cooler will always keep your content at a close temperature at which it was stored. It doesn’t matter even if you put hot food inside the cooler; you will get it equally hot later. To ensure that the food remains at the same temperature, leave no space inside the tent so that the air does not enter your cooler.
3) Keeps Your Food Edible – Once you have packed your cooler, it will retain the food in its original flavors so you can always enjoy your meal no matter what time you wish to eat it. Small coolers are considered the best for small outdoor excursions like a picnic, or short camping trips. When you are out in a natural environment, having your food edible always is fortunate.
4) Can Be Used Anywhere – Small coolers come in different shapes and sizes. You can choose from Hard Sided Coolers or Soft-sided coolers. These coolers have a universal use. You can use it in any sort of outdoor adventure. Another significant feature that these coolers offer is that you can carry your lunch because of their compact size. These coolers are quite easy to clean, and since they are portable, there is no problem when it comes to carrying them.
Disadvantages Of Small Coolers
Everything has its own set of disadvantages, and so do these small coolers. We have mentioned some of them here for your reference.
1) Very Limited Storage Capacity – Since these coolers are small in size, they have limited capacity. Most of these coolers don’t feature multiple pockets to stash your gears. Make sure to compromise with the fact that these coolers are limited in space.
2) Limited Cooling Capacity – Since you will be carrying a bunch of ice packs with you, these coolers have a limited cooling capacity. Most of these coolers will be able to retain ice for up to 24 hours.
How To Increase The Ice Retention Capacity Of Small Coolers?
No matter wherever you are going, a small cooler is your only reliable option to carry your food and ice for days. There are plenty of coolers that can retain ice for days. At the same time, many things can further increase coolers’ capacity to retain ice. Many factors can impact these coolers’ ice retention capacity, and how you pack your stuff inside the cooler is one of those reasons. Follow these steps to increase the ice retention capacity of these coolers:
- Pre Chill Your Cooler – The first thing you will have to do is pre-chill your cooler. Before you take your cooler on a camping trip, it is essential to plummet the cooler’s temperature. So, before you start loading contents and fill your food, make sure to pre-chill it. Put some ice in the box, and it will automatically plummet the existing temperature.
- Chill Your Food – As you have done with cooler, the same goes for food. It is a good idea to store frozen drinks and food inside the cooler for your cooler to retain your food and ice-cold for a longer period. Make sure to freeze your drinks before you load them inside the cooler. If you are planning to eat meat on the road, you can go with frozen meat.
- Maintain Proper Ratio – The way you pack your cooler can impact the cooler’s ice retention ability. The standard ratio to the supplies is 2:1. If you maintain the ratio with care, you will take advantage of these cooler’s great ice retention capability. Ice goes first: you must add ice first before your supplies. Top these drinks with additional ice and then, put your food and meat items above them. That’s how a cooler is packed to increase the ice life.
- Fill Every Space – Once you have loaded your content inside the cooler, don’t leave any space unoccupied. Fill every space with ice. This is done to avoid ice to melt down quickly. Make sure that there is no space left inside the cooler. You can also use newspapers to fill those empty spaces to avoid a surge in the cooler’s weight.
- Keep Your Cooler Closed – Once you have packed your cooler, make sure not to open it again unless you have to. Also, try to limit the cooler’s opening so that the hot air does not enter the cooler and melt all your ice. The cooler’s frequent opening will melt your ice quickly, and the cooler will not be able to offer you great ice life.
- Place Your Cooler In A Shady Spot – To keep your cooler incredibly cool, it mustn’t come in contact with the rays of the sun. Make sure to place your cooler in that place where there is no exposure to the rays of the sun. Keep your cooler in a shady area so that the sun’s rays don’t impact the cooler. This will keep ice for a longer period, and ultimately, you will receive great ice retention from your cooler.
How to Choose the Best Small Cooler – Buyer’s Guide
Still not sure what you should be looking for in a personal cooler? We have broken the small coolers down into the main criteria to pay attention to.
1) Carrying Capacity and Size
The first thing that you would need to look at is the carrying capacity. You need to consider how many cans of beer this cooler can hold. You don’t want a cooler that is too short on space, and you will have to run short on food and beverages. If more people accompany you, it is essential to find a cooler with plenty of space to feed all those campers with you. You also need to remember that as you go from a smaller space to a large space, these coolers’ size will also increase. Make sure to find a cooler that you can lift easily. The size and Space of these coolers matter a lot. Apart from that, some coolers come with multiple pockets to save your interior space. You can easily stash small gears in those side pockets.
2) Ice Time
The basic purpose of a cooler is to retain ice for a longer period or even days. The cooler that can serve you with this purpose would be an ideal pick. Some coolers can retain ice for 2-3 days. On the other hand, there are plenty of other coolers that can retain ice for 10 days. Well, many factors can influence the ice retention ability of these coolers; you still don’t have to skimp on this factor. A small cooler that can hold ice for a longer period will be an asset while hitting the roads in the summer season when the rays of the sun exhaust you. Make sure to buy a cooler that can retain ice for a long.
3.) Features – Apart from basic features that include ice retention and other basic things, you should also take a look at the features that the cooler comes with. Since a cooler is designed to offer every bit of comfort, it is incorporated with those features that always come in handy in need. There are plenty of coolers that come with built-in bottle openers so that you don’t have to carry additional bottle openers. Adding more to that, Today’s best coolers are incorporated with features like built-in cup holders so that your drinks are always handy. Most of these coolers come with a built-in tray to keep your dry food and wet food separate. Adding more to your convenience, some of these coolers come with wheels so that you can comfortably portage them from one place to another. Some other manufacturers also do a great job by providing you with an integrated fish ruler. The more the features, the lesser things you will have to stash in your backpacks.
4) Durability – A durable cooler is what we all need. Today’s best coolers are designed using roto-molded construction, which is why today’s coolers are robust, sturdy, and durable. Apart from that, Rotomolded construction is another reason why these coolers have improved cooling performance and why these coolers can retain ice for several days. Rotomolded construction makes them tougher, stronger, and they can easily hold up good against any collapse. What if we tell you that these coolers can withstand the attack of a ferocious bear? Yes, Today’s best coolers are IGBC Certified, which means they have gone through real-life tests and can withstand the attack of a bear. So, if your cooler is IGBC Certified, it means that it can easily survive the assault of a bear. If you have been looking forward to buying a cooler, it is a good idea to go for those coolers that are IGBC Certified; though they might cost a bit more, the investment is worth it.
Why Small Coolers Are The Most Desirable?
Out of all the coolers out there in the market, the small coolers are the most popular among travelers and adventurers. People prefer to carry these coolers with them during their treks, beaches, or outdoor activities for several reasons. The first major reason is that the smallest coolers cool very fast. The science behind it is that they have to cool a small volume of space.
Another important reason behind opting for this cooler is that you can carry it to farther places. They are lightweight and thus can be used for long treks. On the other hand, large coolers are heavy-weight and are not a good option for treks or hiking.
Also, either you are traveling solo, or in a small group, these coolers can easily hold all the potable essentials you want to cherish. Moreover, several coolers have good ice-retention capability. Above all, it fits everyone’s budget.
Final Verdict
Wrapping up this article, we know that there are plenty of coolers in the market, and each of them differs in specifications and features. A camping cooler is one of the most important camping gear pieces that can ease your camping experience. Since camping is meant to be fun-filled, nothing should deter you from having a wonderful experience. A cooler should be able to keep your ice frozen, easy to carry around, and keep your food and beverages chilled.
To help you find the best small cooler for you, we have sifted through plenty of options and only find the above-mentioned coolers’ value for money. Depending upon what you want from your cooler, you can take your pick. Also, make sure to read our buying guide, which will further give you an insight into finding the best cooler.
FAQ’S
What is the size of small coolers?
The definition of these coolers is subjective. However, you can define coolers as the cooler whose storage capacity ranges from 17 quarts to 35 quarts. There are several coolers in the market. These coolers are specifically designed for a small group of people who are going on a camping trip.
For how long can small coolers retain ice?
Normally, it can retain ice for 2 days. Well, there are plenty of other factors that can influence its ice retention ability. It includes temperature, humidity, and many other natural factors.
What are the benefits of Small Coolers?
Since they are light-weight and that is what gives them an edge over the rest. Since these coolers are lightweight, they are portable. You can easily fit them into your car or carry them over your shoulder.
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