The road trip is one of the best times to bond with family and friends. To ensure that everyone has a great time, you should bring a cooler. There are several things you should consider when looking for the best cooler for your road trip. Here are some things to consider: Size The size of the cooler is important because you do not want it to be too big or too small. You want to be able to fit all of your food and drinks into the cooler without having to leave anything out. The size of the cooler should be big enough to fit all of your stuff, but not so big that it takes up too much room in the car. Weight The weight of the cooler is also important. The cooler should be light enough that you can carry it with you, but heavy enough that it will keep your food and drinks cold. Durability The cooler should be durable enough that it will last through your entire road trip. You want to be able to use the same cooler for many different trips, so it should be sturdy enough to last. Portability You want to be able to take your cooler with you on your trip, so portability is important. You should be able to carry your cooler with you without having to take a second bag. The cooler should be easy to use so that you don’t have to spend a lot of time trying to figure it out. You also want to make sure that the cooler is easy to clean. After a long day of hiking, you don’t want to have to spend a lot of time cleaning your cooler. The best coolers are ones that are easy to use, clean and durable. Coolers come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors. You should be able to find one that matches your needs. You also have a lot of options when it comes to price. You can find coolers that are cheap or expensive, depending on what you are looking for. The most important thing is to also review the top coolers to find the perfect one for you.
Make sure your next road trip is well-stocked with our rundown of the best coolers for road trips when you try the Route 100 Vermont Road trip with your kids.
There are a variety of travel coolers available, and all you need to make a grueling road trip more bearable is an ice-cold drink and snack.
There are hard-cased coolers and wheeled varieties, portable cooler bags, and big ones for trunks and hatches. These coolers also come in various colors with features ranging from the very basic to the robust and versatile.
Are you ready for your next four-wheeled journey?
Family and friends, we recommend that you try exploring the Midwest road trips.
Make sure your next road trip is well-stocked with our list of the best coolers for road trips with the kids. You can also check out some of our other great reviews like the Yeti vs Grizzly coolers and the RTIC vs Yeti coolers.
There are several factors to keep in mind when choosing the right travel cooler.
Before selecting the right one for you, it’s wise to know the different types of coolers available on the market. Features, size, style, and price are all things to consider. Coolers are frequently divided into four classes:
General Coolers:
These coolers are what you would normally see at picnics and backyard barbecues. These versions are lightweight, double-walled, and with very little or no insulation.
They generally do a decent job of keeping your snacks and drinks cool for a few hours, and they are the least expensive.
A soft-sided cooler is:
Soft-sided coolers provide more flexibility and portability. When empty, you can fold and store soft-sided coolers in your hatch or truck to gain extra space. They weigh less and are easier to transport.
Soft-sided coolers, on the other hand, have less ice retention, which means they do a poorer job at keeping your things cool for longer.
Extra-large coolers:
Heavy-duty coolers are built to withstand wear and tear and come with high-tech insulation.
Their lids are designed with commercial-grade gaskets to keep your snacks and drinks cold for longer periods.
Heavy-duty coolers are bulkier and heavier than their soft-sided cousins, as their name implies.
Electric coolers:
Electric coolers don’t require ice to preserve your stuff chilled. They can keep anything cold for as long as your vehicle’s cigarette lighter is switched on.
The only issue with an electric cooler is that its temperature is dependent on the ambient temperature. If you habitually keep your AC on, this should not be an issue.
The best travel coolers:
- EXTRA LARGE CAPACITY - Extra-large size yet weighs only 1.8 lbs. The Maelstrom Icy Hollow Soft sided cooler will hold up to 60 cans of your favorite drinks plus 2-4 ice-packs. Or, with 45 cans you can...
- STAYS COLD LONGER - Thoughtful 5 layer insulation design. Exterior surfaces are made of rip-stop 600D Oxford materials plus one layer of waterproof PVC. Interior layers are thicker, reinforced...
- DURABLE - Maelstrom Ice Hollow Soft Sided Cooler Bags have double-stitched carry options. All pick-up points, the shoulder straps and carry handles are reinforced. This cooler bag can handle more...
- DOUBLE-DECKER UNIQUE DESIGN - Great design that can be stored easily. Besides the extra large main bag, Maelstrom designed a foil insulated top compartment to store sandwiches, frozen food, fruits,...
- VERSATILE - Suitable for all outdoor activities as an all-around soft sided cooler for camping or road trips. It’s the perfect size for food delivery services and a great solution to transport...
- TITAN DEEP FREEZE ZIPPERLESS HARDBODY COOLER: Zipperless cooler features a patented, "flip-open" Zipperless lid for quick access to food and drinks; Keeps ice for up to two days and holds up to 30...
- DEEP FREEZE PERFORMANCE INSULATION: Features Deep Freeze Performance Insulation with an integrated radiant heat barrier; Perfect for keeping food and beverages cold during travel, tailgates, picnics,...
- HARDBODY LINER WITH SMARTSHELF: Includes a removable HardBody liner with SmartShelf that allows you to separate hard items from soft so sandwiches and other soft foods don't get crushed; SmartShelf...
- DESIGNED FOR CONVENIENCE AND USABILITY: Cooler features an adjustable Backsaver shoulder strap with an anti-slip shoulder pad for carrying comfort and rugged exterior material that is water- and...
- EASY TO CLEAN: Our products are meant to last no matter how dirty they get; Most food residues on the interior and exterior of the cooler can be wiped clean with mild soapy water and a damp cloth; We...
- 【𝐔𝐧𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐝 𝐈𝐜𝐞 𝐑𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧】: The LANEDO Cooler is your ultimate companion for 𝗸𝗲𝗲𝗽𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿...
- 【𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐒𝐢𝐳𝐞】: With dimensions measuring 𝟭𝟴𝘅𝟴.𝟱𝘅𝟭𝟯 𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗵𝗲𝘀, this cooler offers ample space. It can easily accommodate...
- 【𝐃𝐮𝐫𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐨𝐟】: Designed for durability, this cooler comes with a separate support pad for added sturdiness. 𝙋𝙡𝙪𝙨,...
- 【𝐀𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥】: Inside, discover a spacious interior that comfortably accommodates your lunch, snacks, and more. It's not just about...
- 【𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐲𝐢𝐧𝐠】: The LANEDO Cooler features a soft and comfortable shoulder strap, making it a breeze to transport, whether you're...
- [COLLAPSIBLE COOLER BAG] - Our sturdy and structured soft-sided cooler bags are built with performance insulation to keep your lunch, beverages, and essentials icy cold - perfect for picnics, hikes,...
- [CONVENIENT AND PRACTICAL] - Easily adapt to your preferred carrying style with the included shoulder strap or the top handles for quick and easy transport of our travel cooler. The built-in bottle...
- [COMPACT AND STURDY] - This insulated cooler bag collapses flat to a practical 3" for easy storage. The reliable solid board base and sturdy wire frame grant you the confidence to pack your cooler to...
- [MADE FROM RECYCLED MATERIAL] - Main body fabric made from 100% recycled material. Our polyester picnic cooler is a leakproof and eco-conscious solution. Reduce plastic waste and enjoy the reliability...
- [SPACIOUS AND LIGHTWEIGHT] - Measuring 17.7" x 11.8" x 13", our soft cooler bag provides ample room for all your refreshments, and when empty, it weighs just 2.25 lbs, ensuring it won't weigh you down...
- Leakproof Cooler Backpack: High-density Insulation material and leak-proof liner inside the insulated backpacks work together to ensure anti-leaking and keep food hot / cold for 16 hours with ice...
- Large Capacity Coolers: 13.0" x 7.5" x 17" / 33cm x 19cm x 43cm (L x W x H), Weight: 1.1 pounds / 500g, can hold up to 30 cans(330ml), own enough space for all your necessities
- Multiple Pockets: 1 main roomy storage compartment, 2 side mesh pockets, 2 large front zipper pockets to keep utensils, 1 zipper pocket on the lid, 1 mesh pocket, and 1 beer opener on the strap
- Light yet Durable: Made of waterproof, durable fabric, the best lightweight backpack with cooler for work, picnics, road / beach trips, hiking, camping, cycling, a perfect gift for men and women
- Multiple Functions: The stylish design of our insulated cooler backpack make it also can be used as a lunch backpack or daily pack. Perfect for lunches, picnics, work, or travel
- Lightweight and Portable: Weighing just 0.68 kilograms, this cooler bag is easy to carry around.
- Insulated Interior: Made from ethylene vinyl acetate, the interior keeps contents cool for hours.
- Durable and Water Resistant: Constructed from durable polyester material that repels water.
- Foam Insulated Lining: Provides insulation to keep contents cool and comfortable.
- Fits Standard Bottles: Accommodates standard 9.3 fluid ounce bottles for convenience.
- DUAL INSULATED COMPARTMENTS -- Please check measurement: 15" x 12" x 12"(L*W*H), 30L bottom compartment is extra large for outdoors, fits up to 40 cans+3 ice packs, upper compartment with mesh pocket...
- 20 HOURS COOLING & LEAK-PROOF-- Food-grade PEVA insulated liner adopts hot-pressing technology for 100% leak-proof, 8mm thickened insulation with radiant heat barrier block heat outside, keep cold up...
- WATERPROOF & CLEAN WITH EASE -- Don't worry about food spills. EVERFUN cooler bag made of PEVA insulation inside and tear-resistant nylon outside instead of cloth material, both are WATERPROOF and...
- CARRY WITH COMFORT -- EVERFUN cooler bag comes with a detachable and adjustable shoulder strap & strong top handle, absolutely you can carry it as hands bag / shoulder bag / cross-body bag, Built-in...
- MULTI-SCENARIO APPLICATION -- This insulated cooler bag is lightweight, compact and portable, ideal for traveling, camping with your family, enjoying a romantic picnic in the park, fishing, boating...
- The Cooler Travel Pillow: Introducing the Trtl Pillow Cool – the coolest pillow in our collection. While all our travel pillows offer excellent head support, allowing you to enjoy a deep,...
- Enjoy A Refreshing Traveling Experience: Our pillow's innovative mesh venting panel gives great breathability, while the Tencel cooling fiber keeps your neck sweat-free. For optimal support from your...
- No More Bobbing Heads: The Trtl Pillow Cool's internal support system keeps your head and neck in an upright position while you nap. As an added bonus, our unique internal support structure now...
- Lightweight And Easy To Take On The Go: Unlike old-fashioned, bulky U-shaped neck pillows, the Trtl Pillow Cool is lightweight and folds down super small, so it won't weigh you down during your...
- Arrive At Your Destination Feeling Refreshed: We believe that maximizing the amount of rest you receive during your journey allows you to arrive at your destination feeling refreshed and ready to go....
- UPGRADED COOLING EFFECT. This diabetic travel case comes with two upgraded ice packs each weighing 90g, which is more than the weight of similar-sized products on the market. The insulin cooler can...
- IDEAL SIZE FOR DAILY LIFE. This insulin pen travel case is compact in size 7.7 x 3.15 x 1.38in for easy-carry. The small insulated cooler bag designed in the right size can be held with one hand...
- DURABLE & SAFE. Made of Oxford fabric exterior, thickened pearl cotton and aluminum interior, the diabetes travel case is ideal for keeping hot items and cold supplies in good condition.
- ORGANIZE WHAT YOU NEED. With a well-designed layout, this insulin case facilitates neat storage for diabetic supplies, such as 2-3 insulin pens, refills, syringes, insulin needles or alcohol wipes....
- TSA Approved. The ice packs meet TSA security standards and can be taken on board without any hassle. This insulin bag allows you to enjoy the travel and makes your health management efficient and...
Coleman 28-Quart Cooler
When it comes to classics, you can’t go wrong with this one. For travelers on a road trip who want a hassle-free cooler, the Coleman 28-Quart Cooler does the job. Coleman coolers are often synonymous with coolers, so if you are looking for a classic one, this is it. The Xtreme technology used in this hard-sided cooler claims to keep your items cold for up to three days.
The Coleman 28-Quart cooler is large enough without being too bulky, allowing for 48 cans or 2-liter cans to be held vertically.
The comfort-grip bail handle puts less strain on your hands, so you can get to your destination comfortably if you’re lugging your cooler around.
The Coleman Have-A-Seat Lid provides a spot to sit and relax immediately, supporting up to 250 pounds.
The Igloo BMX Cooler is cool but more $$.
There are a few things worth mentioning:
The Igloo BMX Cooler is the best travel cooler for adventurers seeking a sturdy ice chest. Because it is lightweight and durable, this cooler is suitable for severe conditions (the reinforced base and metal kickplates give this strong ice chest a formidable appearance). You may kick it around without hesitation.
This cooler has a lot to boast about when it comes to keeping your snacks and drinks cool. UV inhibitors prevent the sun from entering, and extra-thick foam walls and an efficiently insulated lid keep things cool.
The lid stays tightly closed thanks to Igloo’s Cool Riser technology, which elevates the body from hot surfaces. T-grip latches with extra rubber protection ensure the lid remains effectively closed and keeps out the cold. Are you still worried about the lid being opened as a result of movement or strong winds? Tie-down loops provide extra lid protection and safety.
Avoiding these road trip mistakes will ensure you have the best road trip with your children about security.
Arctic Zone Titan
The following are some of the coolers outstanding characteristics:
The Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze is a surprisingly durable, flexible, and collapsible travel cooler that is perfect for those looking for a lightweight, soft-sided icebox.
The Triple-layer ColdBlock base and radiant heat barrier provide high-quality cooling in this portable cooler, which keeps ice for up to three days and can hold up to 30 cans. Other soft-sided travel coolers cannot compare.
The Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze is the best car travel cooler because of its flip-open zipperless lid, which gives you instant access to your food and drinks. SmartShelf technology is by far the most important feature.
Soft items (e.g., sandwiches, cheese, cake) can be safely stored away from hard items (e.g., bottles, cans) using SmartShelf so that they don’t get crushed.
Divide the SmartShelf dividers to provide one large compartment, if you need more space.
Rubbermaid Victory Cooler
You should plan to pack lightly if you need to take several stops on your road trip.
Large coolers are difficult to transport, so get a rollable cooler if you need to transport lots of food and drinks.
Rubbermaid 34 Quarts is an exceptional travel cooler for people seeking wheeled models because it provides a lot of room and outstanding durability. When it comes to cooling, this cooler can compete with the pricey versions. This cooler can keep ice for up to five days at 90°F with its extra thick insulation.
The split lid provides quick access to your food and drinks without letting too much cold air out.
The handles on the sides of this versatile cooler are designed to be comfortable to grip and the wheels are built to handle a variety of terrains and rough surfaces. A metal tow handle is also included.
CleverMade SnapBasket.
• High performance and high efficiency • Real-time monitoring and alarming • Comprehensive visualization • Easy installation and maintenance • Longer service life • Easy to operate and maintain • Modern and simple design • Wide range of applications • Easy to use • Low power consumption • Environmentally friendly • Longer service life
Is there a way to keep your drinks cold without too much effort?
The SnapBasket by CleverMade is the greatest travel cooler on the market today if you want a soft-sided alternative. This space-saving solution is excellent for road trips, grocery trips, deliveries, and everyday tasks as well.
The triple-layer insulation made of sonically welded PEVA polyester fabric is water-resistant and leakproof.
The unique design of the CHILLERMASTER keeps cold food and drinks cold longer than other soft-sided coolers, ensuring that less cold escapes.
Soft-sided coolers are known for their very flimsy structure, but the SnapBasket Cooler has a steel wire frame on top, a solid base, and a SnapHinge on each side. This gives the cooler a sturdier structure, even when half full.
Do you need more storage at the back of your trunk?
Keep it in just about anywhere by folding down this SnapBasket Cooler to just three inches.
The YETI Roadie 24 Cooler is great.
A specially designed cooler is the best road trip companion. The YETI Roadie 24 Cooler has multiple features that make it an excellent road trip companion.
The Roadie 30 is 10% lighter, has 20% more capacity, and is 30% more thermally efficient than its predecessor, the Roadie 20.
It’s also taller, which makes it a superb fit behind the driver’s seat while holding a bottle of wine upright.
The handle is constructed from a flexible material, so it’s simple to carry and haul around. It also includes tie-down points for simple securing at the back of a truck, boat, or raft. You can also check out our 8 Alternative ‘Yeti Like’ Coolers. You can also find the cooler to take out on the water with you.
Make sure to take the time to choose the right cooler for you. Too big and it is a pain to move or carry, too small and it won’t hold enough of what you need. Now make your choice and get outdoors.
