8 Best Rotomolded Coolers For Any Budget Range (2022)

When going for beach trips, tailgating, or having a family gathering in the backyard, rotomolded coolers may come in very handy. They can keep drinks cold for days as well as provide safe storage for fresh goods when going outdoors.

While all manufacturers offer almost the same features, some rotomolded coolers are better than others. Let this be your guide in finding the best rotomolded coolers.

First up, we have an entry from one of the most trusted brands in the outdoor gear industry. Though they’re not the first company to build rotomolded coolers they managed to set themselves up to be the benchmark of other coolers because of their unmatched quality, durability, and superior ice retention.

The Yeti Tundra is armed with their patented T-Rex lid latches that prevent a busted latch, and never-fail hinges that don’t break — a common problem in most coolers. Plus, its rotomolded construction ensures that it is armed to the core. It won’t bend or break even if you jump on it or drop it accidentally. As a matter of fact, it was once put to the test by being molded by 2 angry bears and they still weren’t able to break it.

Thanks to 3 inches of permafrost and fatwall design, it also has unmatched and proven ice retention that can keep ice for as long as 10 days (some even claim up to 14 days).

Here is a video of Yeti Practical that shows its quality after 2 Months

To be honest, Yeti is not the best bang for the buck because they tend to be very expensive. Unless you’re going to camp for a long time in very harsh terrain, or you have an excess amount of money to spend on a cooler, there are some cheaper alternatives to the Yeti Tundra like Igloo bmx 52 quart cooler. But if you want a sure choice, YETI will never fail you.

Not far behind the Tundra is the Pelican Elite. In my opinion, it has slightly better functionality, thanks to its built-in can opener and cup holders. They are also slightly bigger than the Tundra 65.

User reports suggest that the Pelican Elite is equal to the Yeti Tundra, but that’s a claim yet to be proven.

Like the Yeti Tundra, it is certified bear-proof making it a good option for camping in harsh environments and tailgating. As a matter of fact, they back it up with a lifetime warranty. Claiming “if you break it, we replace it”.

Choosing between two of the higher-end rotomolded coolers, it’s all a matter of preference. Both have great quality, ice retention capabilities, and price (almost) but differ slightly on added features.

If you’re looking for a cheap cooler to use at parties or beach trips not lasting for more than a week, then the Coleman Xtreme 85 QT will do the job well.

It can keep ice for up to 5 days making it a decent option for those more concerned about the budget or those who do not need to use it in harsh environments. It has built-in cup holders and can withstand up to 110 kilograms of weight allowing an average American male to sit on it without breaking its lid.

Sure, it doesn’t have a bear-proof rating or 2 week-long ice retention capabilities, but you might not need those features to host a party or a short beach trip. Plus, it’s almost 7 times cheaper than the top-rated coolers.

The RTIC 65 has a very similar build and features to the YETI Tundra that actually looks very identical but with a huge difference in price.

Both advertise up to 10 days of ice retention, indestructible rotomolded body, and durable rope with molded plastic handles. Some tests claim that RTIC is better at ice-retention despite the lesser bulk.

Like the YETI Tundra, this falls short on extra features such as cup holders found in the Pelican Elite. As well as the built-in ruler, and tie-down points found in the Igloo BMX.

This, however, is a good option for those who care more about ice retention than other extra features and for YETI Tundra fans.

You may also like this comparison:
Yeti 45 vs 65: Which Cooler Is Worth the Money? Ultimate Comparison

The Igloo BMX features some unique characteristics to extend its lifespans such as a reinforced base and UV inhibitor, but I doubt these extra features give it an edge on durability against high-end rotomolded coolers such as the Pelican Elite and YETI Tundra.

However, this cheaper alternative still packs solid features such as a rubberized swing-up grip that makes it easier to carry, cool riser technology that elevates it a little bit to avoid hot surfaces, and a built-in ruler for measuring catch when fishing.

Despite its 20% thicker foam, cool riser technology, and insulated lid that supposedly provides advanced cooling performance, it gets only 5 days of ice retention but it’s also way cheaper than the high-end options.

Overall, this is still a good cooler to go for when looking for a budget cooler with a good design.

The ORCA cooler is another entry bearing similar features, design, and quality to the YETI Tundra.

Its rotomolded construction makes it virtually indestructible. It has ergonomic handles for 2-person and single-person carry. In addition, they boast up to 10 hours of ice retention despite the smaller size.

This cooler is marketed for fishing enthusiasts, themed with the whale-tale latches and logo. It is 100% made in the USA and is a good alternative to the more expensive Tundra.

Rotomolded coolers are used not only for the storage of cans and bottles but also for fresh meat and vegetables. This is why bacteria can quickly build up resulting in a foul odor.

One of the most notable features of the Titan cooler is the Microban antimicrobial protection that helps protect against bacterial odors and stains. With the easy-to-use T-latches, stainless rotating handle, oversized drain, and heavy-duty rotomolded construction, this is another great choice for outdoor/indoor use.

One of the best in the category of wheeled coolers is the RovR wheeled camping cooler. They’re one of the most expensive too, but for a good reason.

This wheeled cooler is indestructible, provides great insulation, and boasts features that are rarely seen in a cooler. They’re equipped with high-performance, puncture-proof wheels that can handle all terrain, including sand.

One of the cool features is the additional storage at the top of the lid for storing camping stuff and the free removable dry bin to organize fresh goods inside. In addition, they sell lots of accessories including the BikR kit that allows you to haul the cooler with your bike, prepping board, umbrella holder, and cup holders.

The Wrap Up

You won’t go wrong with picking from any of these coolers. Choosing the perfect one for you is a matter of preference and intended usage.

If you’re looking for something that will provide superior performance in terms of durability and ice retention, then the Pelican Elite and Yeti Tundra are a sure bet.

If you’re looking for a cheaper option that still packs almost the same, if not the same performance, I’d highly recommend the RTIC cooler, however, they are kind of hard to find.

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