Camping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and spend time with loved ones. However, no camping trip is complete without a reliable cooler to keep your food and drinks cold. While there are many great coolers on the market, they can also be quite expensive. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best camping coolers under $100 that will keep your food and drinks cold without breaking the bank.
What to Look for in a Camping Cooler
When choosing a camping cooler, there are a few factors you’ll want to consider:
- Size: Choose a cooler that is the right size for your needs. If you’re camping with a large group, you’ll need a bigger cooler than if you’re camping solo.
- Durability: Make sure the cooler is made from durable materials that can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
- Ice retention: Choose a cooler with good ice retention to keep your food and drinks cold for as long as possible.
- Ease of transport: Make sure the cooler has wheels or handles that make it easy to transport over different surfaces.
- Additional features: Some coolers come with additional features, such as a built-in bottle opener or a dry goods rack.
The Best Camping Coolers Under $100
Coleman Xtreme 5-Day Cooler
The Coleman Xtreme 5-Day Cooler is a great all-around cooler that is perfect for camping, tailgating, or fishing. It has a capacity of 70 quarts and can keep ice cold for up to 5 days. The cooler is also made from durable materials that can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
Pros:
- Durable construction
- Excellent ice retention (up to 5 days)
- Affordable price
- Large capacity (70 quarts)
- Comfortable handles
- Built-in bottle opener
- Dry goods rack
- Non-slip foot
- Drain plug for easy cleaning
Cons:
- Heavy when fully loaded
- Not as lightweight as some other coolers
- Some users have reported that the ice retention is not as good as advertised
RTIC 45 Quart Hard Cooler
The RTIC 45 Quart Hard Cooler is another great option that is known for its excellent ice retention. It can keep ice cold for up to 7 days, making it a great choice for extended camping trips. The cooler is also made from rotomolded polyethylene, a very durable material that can withstand drops, bumps, and scratches.
Pros:
- Durable construction
- Excellent ice retention (up to 7 days)
- Affordable price
- Large capacity (45 quarts)
- Comfortable handles
- Built-in bottle opener
- Dry goods rack
- Non-slip foot
- Drain plug for easy cleaning
Cons:
- Heavy when fully loaded
- Not as lightweight as some other coolers
- Some users have reported that the ice retention is not as good as advertised
Engel 30 Quart Cooler
The Engel 30 Quart Cooler is a premium cooler that is known for its outstanding ice retention. It can keep ice cold for up to 10 days, making it the perfect choice for those who need a cooler that can keep their food and drinks cold for an extended period of time. The cooler is also made from high-quality materials that are built to last.
Pros:
- Excellent ice retention (up to 10 days)
- Durable construction
- Airtight seal
- Built-in bottle opener
- Stainless steel screws
- Self-stopping hinge
Cons:
- Expensive
- Heavy when fully loaded
Kelty Folding Cooler
The Kelty Folding Cooler is a great option for those who are looking for a portable and lightweight cooler. It folds up compactly and is easy to transport. The cooler also has a capacity of 30 quarts and can keep ice cold for up to 2 days.
Pros:
- Portable and lightweight
- Durable construction
- Thick layer of insulation
- Large capacity
- Comfortable carrying handle
- Drain plug for easy cleaning
- Affordable price
Cons:
- Ice retention is not as good as some other coolers
- Not as durable as some other coolers
- Can be difficult to clean the corners of the cooler
Also read: The Best Camping Coolers With Wheels
Additional Tips for Saving Money on Camping Coolers
In addition to choosing a cooler that is under $100, there are a few other things you can do to save money on camping coolers:
- Shop around for deals: There are always deals to be found on camping coolers, so be sure to shop around before you buy.
- Consider buying a used cooler: You can often find great deals on used camping coolers.
- Take care of your cooler: A well-maintained cooler will last longer, so be sure to take care of yours.
FAQs
What size camping cooler should I get?
The size of the camping cooler you need depends on a few factors, including the number of people you’re camping with, the length of your trip, and what types of food and drinks you’ll be bringing. If you’re camping with a large group or going on an extended trip, you’ll need a bigger cooler. If you’re camping solo or just going for a day trip, you can get a smaller cooler.
What is the best material for a camping cooler?
The best material for a camping cooler is rotomolded polyethylene. This material is durable, lightweight, and has excellent ice retention.
How can I keep my food and drinks cold in my camping cooler for longer?
Here are a few tips for keeping your food and drinks cold in your camping cooler for longer:
Pre-chill your cooler and food/drinks before you leave.
Use block ice instead of crushed ice. Block ice melts more slowly and will help keep your food and drinks cold for longer.
Pack your cooler tightly. This will help keep the cold air inside.
Avoid opening your cooler too often. Every time you open your cooler, you let out cold air and let in warm air.
How can I clean my camping cooler?
To clean your camping cooler, simply wipe it down with a damp cloth and a mild soap solution. Be sure to rinse the cooler thoroughly and dry it completely before storing it.
How can I protect my camping cooler from bears?
If you’re camping in bear country, it’s important to protect your camping cooler from bears. Here are a few tips:
Store your cooler in a bear-proof container. There are a variety of bear-proof containers available on the market.
Hang your cooler from a tree. This will make it more difficult for bears to access.
Keep your cooler away from your campsite. Bears are attracted to food, so it’s important to keep your cooler away from your campsite.
Conclusion
Camping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and spend time with loved ones. With a good camping cooler, you can keep your food and drinks cold and enjoy your trip even more.
