Whether a prolific hunter or an avid angler, chances are you will need a reliable second cooler where you can keep ice to refill your main one. Ice, especially on cold days, melts easily and leaves a messy puddle that can spoil your game meat. Therefore, you’ll need the best coolers for keeping ice so you can keep your game meat fresh until you’re back at the civilization. Without further ado, here are some of the best coolers you can find in the market!
How To Choose The Best Coolers for Keeping Ice
It’s tricky to find the best coolers for keeping ice because coolers aren’t built the same. It takes some research to decide which cooler works best for your needs. For you, we’ve done the homework so you can find which cooler keep ice for days. Here are some pointers to get you started.
Material
Best coolers for keeping ice are mostly made of seamless plastic that can ensure the interior is airtight and insulated from the outside. It’s also a great insulator and durable to withstand possible bumps or impact. Luckily, plastics also make lighter coolers that certainly help when you need to haul everything back to the truck. For your information, there are also coolers made of steel. They are far more durable than the plastic ones, but they’re also a lot heavier with less ice retention.
Insulation
With coolers, it only makes sense that the thicker the walls, the better the insulation (excluding the construction factor). It’s the defining factor to allow a cooler keep ice for days. The downside of highly-insulated coolers is they tend to be bulky and heavy – which is unnecessary if you need it for air travel or a quick trip to the beach. If you need your cooler keep ice for days, always go for the thickest and densest one!
Build
When a cooler is seamless, rugged, and highly-insulated, a bad seal will render the cooler useless. The last thing you should consider is how the cooler is built and the features embedded into it. Rotomolded coolers are the best bet you can make for their seamless construction. And when it’s paired with an airtight seal, it seals the deal. Find these keywords as you search for the best coolers for keeping ice.
Which coolers keep ice the longest?
In our extensive review, Otterbox Venture is the best cooler for keeping ice with the highest ice retention among its competitors.
What ice pack stays frozen longest?
Yeti Ice Refreezable Ice Pack (check our review of ice packs for coolers) championed the ice pack competition with its 24+ hours of ice retention and extreme durability.
Does cooler color affect ice retention?
Yes, but only slightly. Light-cased coolers tend to hold ice longer at about half a day.
How long can a cooler hold ice?
There isn’t a definite answer for this question but as a rough estimation, a good cooler should be able to keep ice frozen for at least 18-24 hours without pre-chilling and ice packs. Under an ideal environment, ice can be kept cool for up to a week, which is a significant factor if you’re a hunter.
Looking for coolers for hunting instead?
Engel HD30 Soft-Sided Cooler
13
We start this list strong with Engel HD30 Soft-Sided Cooler that has been a consistent product that users refer to. This cooler might be soft-sided but you wouldn’t want to underestimate its chilling power! This over-engineered cooler has got to be one of the lightest among its competitors. Weighing about 5lbs, take this cooler whenever you need some ice on the go!
This rugged soft-sided cooler is 100% waterproof both from the inside and outside. It succeeds where most soft-sided coolers have failed: the zipper. As you may know, the zipper is the main cause of low ice retention in coolers because it lets the chill air out inadvertently. With these soft-sided coolers, get mobile with no melting worries for at least 4 days!
What We Love
The ice keeper on the go!
Pros:
- 4-5 day of ice retention
- Waterproof zippers
- Great insulation
- Ergonomic shoulder straps
- Vacuum valve
- Lightweight
- For mobile use
Cons:
- It’s prone to scratches and puncture
Igloo Yukon Cold Locker
12
Anglers, rejoice! Igloo Yukon Cold Locker is built with you in mind. This practical cooler took our heart with its practicality and freezing power under the sunshine. Take this to a boat for a fishing trip or tie it down to your vehicle for a cross-country adventure, this cooler is one hell of a beast! It has one of the thickest insulation among other rotomolded PE coolers in the market, so rest assured as your ice stays chilled for up to 6 days!
This cooler works well as a seat, as an operation table, and as a ruler! Imagine sitting on it while waiting for the fish to take the bait, pulling one onto the boat, measuring it, and degutting it on the raised operation area like 1-2-3. So convenient! But most importantly, it keeps ice lasts longer than you thought, especially when you put some long-lasting ice packs in it!
What We Love
A great starter cooler with additional durability and portability
Pros:
- 4-6 day ice retention
- Rotomolded PE exterior
- Embedded with a work surface
- T-latches
- Bear-resistant
- 3-inch insulation
- Integrated ruler
- Freezer-grade gasket
- Stainless steel locking plates
Cons:
- It’s fairly heavy
K2 Summit Cooler
11
K2 Summit Cooler is the new kid on the block in the best coolers for keeping ice competition but you should know that this cooler is not playing around. This lightweight cooler is special for its compactness and durability that’s comparable to older, seasoned brands out there. It has a seamless construction using the most recent rotomolding technology and perfected it with an airtight seal and heavy-duty rubber latches.
Although it looks thin, the wall houses powerful insulation to keep ice frozen for up to 8 days! Aside from its awesome ice retention rate, this cooler screams durability more than other compact coolers. This cooler also comes in 3 color variants that you can choose depending on your preference. Lastly, carrying this cooler should be a new experience for you! Fill it up with goods and you’ll notice that it feels comfy once you got it on your shoulders!
What We Love
The compact and portable cooler with ice great ice retention.
Pros:
- 4-8 day ice retention
- Rotomolded
- PE plastic
- ICE vault lid gasket
- Durable hinge system
- Heavy-duty rubber latches
- Padded shoulder strap
- 7-year warranty
Cons:
- Latches will sometimes slip from your grip when wet
Lifetime Cooler 90820
10
When Lifetime Cooler 90820 debuted, a lot of buzzes were created in the world of cooler. A lot of users ask about how a non-rotomolded cooler can pack a punch in keeping ice long. We had our chance to analyze where it got its chilling power. Rotomolded coolers are famous for their seamless build that’s proven efficient in maintaining temperature throughout a trip. When without it, what makes this cooler keep up with the rotomolded ones?
The body is made of PE plastic that’s formed using the injection method to make sure there’s no air trapped inside. The result is a highly insulating body as the house for the insulation material. It also contributes to the durability it holds: it’s bear-resistant certified! It can even withstand the raw power of a bear for up to an hour! As for ice retention, this wildcard of a cooler can keep ice chilled for up to 7 hours at a time.
What We Love
A newcomer cooler with more than decent quality
Pros:
- 5-7 day ice retention
- Bear-resistant
- Garden hose-compatible drain
- PE Plastic
- Stainless Steel Hinge Rod
- Lightweight
- Freezer gasket
- Easy to use latches
Cons:
- It would’ve been better if it’s rotomolded
RTIC Ice Chests
9
As the brand implies, RTIC Ice Chests are one of the coldest coolers in the market. Their construction is remarkably solid with its rotomolded body, heavy-duty rubber latches, and freezer-grade gasket. With proper treatment, this ice chest should be able to chill your ice for up to 7 days; and it can go even longer when ice packs are involved.
The secret is the 3-inch insulation that encapsulates the cooler. This solid insulation is one of the best in the market, but that doesn’t mean it’s pricey. This is one of the best coolers for keeping ice that doesn’t drill a hole in your wallet! It’s also perfect if you need the cooler to come with you on a vehicle trip. Using the tie-down slots, attach this cooler to your quad, kayak, and rover easily! Let’s go on an adventure now!
What We Love
A great starter cooler to keep ice for days.
Pros:
- 5-7 day ice retention
- Thick insulation
- Great form factor
- Strong hinges
- Heavy-duty rubber latches
- Molded tie-down slots
- Freezer-grade gasket
Cons:
- Heavier than other competitors
Canyon Cooler
8
With the signature sandstone color, Canyon Cooler makes a journey to a desert feels like going to the beach. Whether you’re chilling your food and beverages or in need of a cooler for your ice, this cooler works just as well. The body is made of rotomolded PE which’s known for its seamless walls and durability. So if you’re worried about damaging this cooler, think again as it would need a great impact to make a small dent!
We like how the latches are designed, when a lot of coolers opt for rubber latches that tend to slips away from your finger, this cooler has snap latches to keep sealing fast and simple. The hinges are virtually indestructible. You’ll appreciate it more if you understand that the part that takes the most beating is the hinges. If you like durability with 7-day ice retention, you should seek no further.
What We Love
A no-fuss cooler that does its job tremendously.
Pros:
- 5-7 day ice retention
- Cam Latch
- Drain plug
- Locking lid
- Thick insulation
- PE rotomolded shell
- Bear-resistant
- Lifetime warranty
Cons:
- Only comes in sandstone color variant
YETI Roadie
7
When we’re talking about coolers, it’s impossible not to talk about the company that builds YETI Roadie. This cooler is one of the most popular products in the market with its practical form factor and its ice retention rate. Dubbed as one of the lightest, best coolers for keeping ice, it won’t disappoint you as you carry this bad boy on your shoulder!
The interior is protected by a rotomolded thin body embedded with the company’s famous Permafrost insulation. The freezer-grade gasket is perfect to seal the cold air inside. When it’s maintained, this cooler can keep ice for a week in a normal situation. If you’re keeping ice, it’s important to keep the cooler sealed until you need to use the ice. Small coolers like this one tend to lose cold air fast when opened.
What We Love
It’s the cooler to keep ice on the go.
Pros:
- 5-7 day ice retention
- Permafrost insulation
- NeverFail Hinge system
- Wine friendly
- Rotomolded
- Padded shoulder strap
- Easy to use latches
Cons:
- The lid isn’t lockable
Grizzly G40 Cooler
6
Grizzly G40 Cooler is the cooler you’d want if you go to where the bears are. Where you’re camping, our survival instinct is on most of the time. This cooler may offer you the key to some peace of mind because this cooler won’t attract wild predators to your camp! It’s made of rotomolded LLDPE Plastic and sealed with a freezer-grade gasket to keep the interior airtight at all times.
This cooler also has one of the best insulation among its competitors. With an ice retention rate of up to 8 days, it makes a fantastic cooler for keeping ice! Rest assured with this cooler, because every material this cooler uses is approved by FDA and the insulation is environmentally friendly! Never go on an adventure without this cooler!
What We Love
The cooler for keeping ice that will stand by you for a very long time!
Pros:
- 5-8 day ice retention
- Rugged build
- Rotomolded LLDPE plastic
- Ecomate PU insulation
- Rubber gasket
- Bear-proof
- Padlock lips
- Heavy-duty rubber latches
- Durable hinges
Cons:
- It’s pricey
Pelican Elite
5
Pelican Elite is one of the best coolers for keeping ice due to its form factor and ruggedness! It’s so durable that you might only need to buy one for your entire life! Unlike most coolers that show a gradual decrease in performance, you won’t see it happen to this cooler. It comes in many color variants to fit into any type of occasion. We recommend you to get the white or bright colored one if you’re going to a place with a lot of sunshine!
To make the best use of its chilling power, it’s best to combine ice packs and ice simultaneously. This helps the insulation and leak-proof gasket to maintain a steady freezing temperature for up to 8 days. If you’re going with a vehicle like a quad or a truck, then this is your holy grail it’s multiple tie-down slots are the best! To sweeten the deal, the company that makes it has a great motto to describe the warranty: You break it, we replace it. Forever!
What We Love
The rugged cooler to complete your chill setup.
Pros:
- 6-8 day ice retention
- Thick insulation
- Reinforced lock hasp
- Anti-shear hinges
- Molded tie-down slots
- Sloped drain
- Self-drain cup holders
Cons:
- Protruding handles take up more space
ORCA Coolers
4
The U.S. brand has become one of the most-sought brands in the market with the release of ORCA Coolers. The company had a wobbly start due to its similarity with one of the big boys in the industry. But recently, they made a strong comeback with the release of this lightweight, mobile cooler. Coming in 2 color options, we figured that the white variant scores higher for ice retention.
The uniquely designed heavy-duty rubber latches are the telltale of a character! These latches help the lid isolate the interior from the outside world. The thick insulation allows you to keep ice up to 9 days, and with help from ice packs, you can crank up its ice retention for more than 10 days! It has accessories that come with it, but our favorite is the net attachment at the back: it keeps other accessories neat and tidy!
What We Love
A portable but powerful cooler for prolonged usage.
Pros:
- 6-9 day ice retention
- Lid gasket
- Extendable grip handles
- Cargo net attachment
- Rotomolded
- Thick insulation
- Padlock lips
Cons:
- Handle often fails
Siberian Alpha Pro Cooler
3
It’s always hard to determine the dwellers of the top 3 because every cooler has its own specialty that we can’t disregard, but we know that Siberian Alpha Pro Cooler has to be one of them. This heavy-duty cooler has no fuss in giving one of the highly-rated ice retentions in the market. This performance comes from a multitude of factors that construct this solid unit.
The key to its chill-keeping power is the thick insulation inside its rotomolded construction. This insulation keeps ice frozen for up to 9 days under the right circumstances. The cold air is then sealed with the lid gasket to be further secured by the aluminum latches. All of these features combined offer more than just chilling power but also the strength to withstand the raw power of a bear. Invest one of these and you’ll have a cooler for a lifetime!
What We Love
A straight-forward powerful cooler.
Pros:
- 7-9 day ice retention
- Anodized aluminum latches
- Stainless steel hinges
- E/Z inserts
- Tie-down strap slots
- Hidden padlock kips
- Comes with accessories
- Bear-resistant
Cons:
- No color options
KONG Cooler
2
KONG Cooler has one of the best marketing moves of all time. We have to admit that we kept a little room for doubt reserved for this cooler. But boy, we were mistaken! This cooler is one of the best coolers for keeping ice we have ever seen! This fat-lipped cooler has everything you need in your chill gear. It’s rugged, it’s lightweight, it keeps ice longer than you thought it would!
It comes in several options of bold n vibrant colors that you will always find the one that suits your personality better. This rotomolded cooler has a comfy grip to help you move it freely while the easy-snap latches keep the lid closed tightly. The content is safe with help from the Insulated Super Seal gasket. The thick insulation keeps ice as long as 14 days under ideal conditions. With all of this ability in your hands, you’ll know the answer for “which coolers keep ice the longest?”
What We Love
An overengineered cooler reliable on any occasion!
Pros:
- 10-14 day ice retention
- Comes in vibrant colors
- Fat lips
- Durable
- Easy to use latches
- Silicone rubber feet
- Multi-functional divider
- Stay-put lid
Cons:
- It’s very pricey
Otterbox Venture
1
You might be wondering how come a non-rotomolded cooler tops our list of best coolers for keeping ice. We wondered too until we met the Otterbox Venture in person. The first thing we noticed about this cooler is how rugged it looks and performs. It’s reasonable because it was produced by the maker of some of the toughest phone cases in the world. However, it was the ice retention test that blew our minds.
Rotomolded coolers are durable, sure, but they also offer less room for improvisation and development. This cooler uses the injection method instead of in an exchange of weight control and structural engineering. The result is a lightweight, versatile cooler with an excellent ice retention rate! It’s so high that it even topples down some of the biggest brands in the market! And the best thing is it costs less than the coolers from those brands!
What We Love
A lightweight cooler with power beyond the looks!
Pros:
- 10-14 day ice retention
- True to size interior
- Bonus dry storage try
- Rugged and tough build
- Molded tie-down slots
- Powerful insulation
- Easy to use latches
- Sturdy handle
Cons:
- Protruding handles take up more space
