RTIC, Igloo, Coleman & More
What Is a Marine Cooler?
What is a marine cooler? It's a tough, well-insulated ice chest built for boat decks and wet, rough conditions, not just a cooler with a boat sticker.
Find the right cooler for your trip, then keep it cold
Side-by-side picks for YETI, RTIC, Igloo, Coleman, Pelican and more. Start with the brand you're weighing, the size you need or how you'll carry it.
Latest guides
- YETI Cooler Models
What Makes YETI Coolers So Good?
What makes YETI coolers so good comes down to rotomolded shells, up to 3 inches of foam and rubber gaskets. Here is how each feature works.
Buying Help, Ice & PackingAre Lifetime Coolers Rotomolded?
Are Lifetime coolers rotomolded? No, they use high-density polyethylene in a different process. Here's what that means for ice, strength and your pick.
Rolling, Soft & Backpack CoolersWhat Is a Soft-Sided Cooler?
What is a soft sided cooler? It's a fabric or foam insulated bag with a leakproof liner that folds down, carries by strap or handle, and keeps ice for a day or more.
- RTIC, Igloo, Coleman & More
What Is a Roto Molded Cooler?
What is a roto molded cooler? It's a one-piece plastic ice chest spun in a mold for even walls. See how rotomolding works and when it's worth it.
- Buying Help, Ice & Packing
How to Control a Thermoelectric Cooler
Learn how to control a thermoelectric cooler: set the thermostat, match the power supply, manage the load and airflow, and keep the fan vents clear.
RTIC, Igloo, Coleman & MoreWhat Is a Hard-Sided Cooler?
What is a hard sided cooler? It's a rigid insulated ice chest with molded walls and a sealing lid. Learn how they work, what sizes and features matter, and who they suit.
- Buying Help, Ice & Packing
How Do Coolers Keep Things Cold?
How do coolers keep things cold? They block heat transfer with insulation walls, a tight lid seal, and a cold source like ice or ice packs.
RTIC, Igloo, Coleman & MoreWill a Cooler Keep Things From Freezing?
Will a cooler keep things from freezing? Yes, with the right pack and insulation. Learn how to pack a cooler so food and drinks stay cold without freezing.