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9 Best Coolers WIRED Tested for Every Budget, Any Situation

Louryn Strampe

created: July 20, 2025, 1:07 p.m. | updated: July 22, 2025, 9:27 p.m.

All the coolers we've recommend above are capable of holding things at a safe temperature for a day, provided you keep them in the shade. Rotomolded coolers offer seamless, uniform density in their walls and lids, which drastically improves a cooler's performance. In contrast, those ancient, affordable plastic coolers we've all used have thinner walls, leaky seams, and less insulated lids. Soft-sided coolers: Soft-sided coolers include everything from well-padded, impressively insulated sling bags (like the Yeti Hopper Flip above) to roll-down, dry-bag-style coolers perfect for those mild beach days. The best soft coolers are easier to carry, pack away easily when not in use, and have a versatility that traditional hard coolers lack.

2 days, 8 hours ago: WIRED