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Closeup of an ice chest full of ice and assorted bottles
Steve Cukrov/shutterstock

When purchasing a cooler, look for one that offers a sturdy structure as well as packing flexibility. A hard plastic Coleman is ideal for a big outdoor barbecue, and it can double as a seat by the campfire. For the adventurous type, we have coolers than can float on water or play music through Bluetooth speakers. Pick your favorite from our selection of outdoor camping coolers and totes.

COLEMAN 48-QUART COOLER

Coleman 48 Quart Cooler
Courtesy of Amazon.com

Est. Price: $20 | Buy it from Dick’s Sporting GoodsGreat for: Families wanting a standard, reliable cooler. It has a durable plastic exterior, patented insulation, and enough space for more than 60 cans.

IGLOO 60-QUART ROLLER COOLER

Igloo 60 Quart Roller Cooler
Courtesy of Target.com

Est. Price: $30 | Buy it from TargetPerfect for: Taking down to the lake or beach. A retractable handle and wheels allow for maximum portability.

COLEMAN SOFT COOLER WITH HARD LINER

Coleman Soft Cooler with Hard Liner
Walmart

Est. Price: $13 | Buy it from WalmartRecommended for: Solo campers looking for a smaller, flexible cooler. It holds nine cans and has four mesh pockets for storing extra items. The hard liner can be removed for more convenient packing.

EBAGS CREW COOLER II

EBags Crew Cooler II
Courtesy of Amazon.com

Est. Price: $50 | Buy it from eBagsIdeal for: Storing on top of rolling luggage when traveling to an outdoor destination.

INTEX MEGA CHILL II FLOAT COOLER

Intex Mega Chill II Float Cooler
Courtesy of Academy.com

Est. Price: $25 | Buy it from AcademyRecommended for: Floating on the river or hanging out by the lake.

BREKX PARTY COOLER

BREKX Party Cooler
Courtesy of Overstock.com

Est. Price: $160 | Buy it from OverstockGreat for: Playing music at the campsite while simultaneously keeping drinks cold.

RACHAEL RAY CHILLOUT THERMAL TOTE

Rachael Ray ChillOut Thermal Tote
Courtesy of Walmart.com

Est. Price: $13 | Buy it from WalmartPerfect for: Packing a picnic. It also folds flat for easy storage.

HANDY LAUNDRY WINE CARRIER TOTE BAG

Handy Laundry Wine Carrier Tote Bag
Courtesy of Handylaundry.com

Est. Price: $12 | Buy it from Handy LaundryIdeal for: Keeping up to four bottles of wine cold. Soft dividers prevent bottles from touching.

IGLOO PLAYMATE PAL COOLER

Igloo Playmate Pal Cooler
Courtesy of Target.com

Est. Price: $13 | Buy it from TargetRecommended for: Kids who want to pack and carry their lunch or snacks.

OAGEAR BACKPACK COOLER

OAGear Backpack Cooler
Courtesy of Outdooractivegear.com

Est. Price: $20 | Buy it from Outdoor Active GearGreat for: Backpackers or hikers looking for a comfortable cooler to take on the trail. It features padded straps, a no-leak liner, and space for 20 cans.

Meet the Writer

Anna Christakos is a web producer and writer in Austin, TX. Dubbed The Frugaler” by her husband