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10 Best Small Coolers 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Yeti Roadie 24 Hard Cooler White

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,195
Capacity
Durability
Ice Retention

Most important from
7626 reviews

Capacity
Compact yet roomy, making it perfect for road trips.
Durability
Solid construction ensures it remains practically indestructible.
Ice Retention
Ice stayed frozen for two days in the summer and four days in the winter, even after falling off an ATV.

The Yeti Roadie 24 Hard Cooler White is a well-built and durable option for those needing a small cooler, especially for camping trips. It has a 24-liter capacity, allowing you to hold up to 18 cans with a 2:1 ice-to-can ratio or 24 pounds of ice, which is substantial for its size. The cooler's tall and slim design makes it convenient to fit behind car seats, optimizing space during travel.

Its rotomolded construction ensures it is tough and durable, but also lightweight at 12 pounds, enhancing its portability. The HEFTYHAULER handle provides comfortable and easy carrying, adding to its portability factor. Insulation is top-notch with polyurethane foam, contributing to excellent ice retention. The QUICKLATCH feature allows for one-handed access, which is especially handy when you're on the go.

However, its price might be higher compared to other small coolers in the market, and while it is lighter than previous models, some users might still find it a bit bulky. Also, its white color, while sleek, may show dirt and scuffs more easily. This cooler is ideal for campers and outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize durability, excellent insulation, and portability. If you're looking for a cooler that can keep your items cold for extended periods and handle rugged conditions, the Yeti Roadie 24 is a solid choice.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,195
Capacity
Durability
Ice Retention

Most important from
7626 reviews

Capacity
Compact yet roomy, making it perfect for road trips.
Durability
Solid construction ensures it remains practically indestructible.
Ice Retention
Ice stayed frozen for two days in the summer and four days in the winter, even after falling off an ATV.
#2

YETI Tundra 45 Cooler Desert Tan

Rating
9.8
Capacity
Durability
Ice Retention

Most important from
4297 reviews

Capacity
Perfect size for everyday use; grocery shopping, camping, ice fishing, and sits steadily in the vehicle.
Durability
A rugged cooler that’s perfect for off-road trip expeditions! Ice retention, weight, and durability are perfect.
Ice Retention
A rugged cooler that’s perfect for off-road trip expeditions! Ice retention, weight, and durability are perfect.

The YETI Tundra 45 Cooler in Desert Tan is a highly durable and versatile cooler ideal for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, fishing, and hunting. It has a capacity of 45 quarts, which can hold up to 26 cans with a 2:1 ice-to-contents ratio. This cooler excels in ice retention, thanks to its 3 inches of PermaFrost Insulation and FatWall design, keeping contents cold for extended periods.

The Rotomolded Construction ensures it is virtually indestructible, and it's even certified bear-resistant, making it suitable for rugged environments. At 24 pounds when empty, it is relatively heavy, which might be a drawback for users prioritizing lightweight portability. However, its robust build and durable components, including T-Rex Lid Latches with patented keeper technology, make it a reliable choice for tough conditions.

The inclusion of one dry goods basket adds to its practicality. Despite its weight, the YETI Tundra 45 Cooler stands out for its strength, excellent insulation, and ability to withstand harsh environments, making it well-suited for serious outdoor enthusiasts.

Rating
9.8
Capacity
Durability
Ice Retention

Most important from
4297 reviews

Capacity
Perfect size for everyday use; grocery shopping, camping, ice fishing, and sits steadily in the vehicle.
Durability
A rugged cooler that’s perfect for off-road trip expeditions! Ice retention, weight, and durability are perfect.
Ice Retention
A rugged cooler that’s perfect for off-road trip expeditions! Ice retention, weight, and durability are perfect.
#3

YETI Hopper M12 Backpack Soft Sided Cooler with MagShield Access, Charcoal

Rating
9.7
Capacity
Insulation
Portability

Most important from
491 reviews

Capacity
Easy to pack, although it can be tricky to close if overfilled with ice.
Insulation
Durable construction and high-quality insulation keep drinks ice cold for hours, even in hot weather.
Portability
The backpack design is comfortable to wear, with adjustable straps for a perfect fit.
Durability
Durable construction and high-quality insulation keep drinks ice cold for hours, even in hot weather.
Ice Retention
Keeps beverages cold throughout the day, perfect for summer tournaments.
Additional Features
The YETI Hopper M Series Backpack Cooler combines stunning design with perfect size for outdoor adventures.

The YETI Hopper M12 Backpack Soft Sided Cooler is designed for those who need a portable and durable solution to keep their beverages cold. It can carry up to 20 cans or 12 pounds of ice, making it a versatile option for picnics, camping trips, or any outdoor activity. The ColdCell insulation provides impressive cold-holding capabilities, ensuring your items stay cold for extended periods. This cooler's MagShield Access feature uses durable magnets to create a leak-resistant seal that is easy to open and close, adding to its convenience.

The DryHide Shell is made from high-density fabric that resists punctures and UV rays, enhancing its durability. Additionally, the Kangaroo Pocket offers extra storage for small essentials like a phone or wallet. However, it's worth noting that the cooler weighs around 3.06 kilograms, which could be a bit heavy for some users. Also, despite its high capacity in cans and ice, the actual fluid capacity is only 12 ounces, which might be confusing.

The backpack design is excellent for portability, keeping your hands free, but it might be less comfortable for extended carrying periods due to the weight. This cooler is particularly suitable for outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize insulation and durability in their gear.

Rating
9.7
Capacity
Insulation
Portability

Most important from
491 reviews

Capacity
Easy to pack, although it can be tricky to close if overfilled with ice.
Insulation
Durable construction and high-quality insulation keep drinks ice cold for hours, even in hot weather.
Portability
The backpack design is comfortable to wear, with adjustable straps for a perfect fit.
Durability
Durable construction and high-quality insulation keep drinks ice cold for hours, even in hot weather.
Ice Retention
Keeps beverages cold throughout the day, perfect for summer tournaments.
Additional Features
The YETI Hopper M Series Backpack Cooler combines stunning design with perfect size for outdoor adventures.

Buying Guide for the Best Small Coolers

When it comes to picking the right small cooler, it's important to consider how you plan to use it. Whether you're heading out for a day at the beach, a picnic in the park, or a short camping trip, the right cooler can make all the difference in keeping your food and drinks fresh and cool. Here are some key specifications to consider when choosing a small cooler, along with explanations to help you make the best choice for your needs.
CapacityCapacity refers to the amount of space inside the cooler, usually measured in quarts or liters. This spec is important because it determines how much food and drink you can store. Small coolers typically range from 5 to 20 quarts. If you're planning a solo trip or just need to keep a few drinks cold, a cooler on the lower end of this range will suffice. For small group outings or if you need to store more items, consider a cooler with a higher capacity. Think about the number of people and the duration of your trips to guide your choice.
InsulationInsulation is what keeps the contents of your cooler cold. The quality and thickness of the insulation can vary, affecting how long the cooler can maintain its temperature. Good insulation is crucial for keeping your items cold for extended periods. Coolers with thicker walls and lids generally offer better insulation. If you need your cooler to keep ice for a full day or more, look for models with high-quality insulation. For shorter trips, less robust insulation may be sufficient.
PortabilityPortability refers to how easy it is to carry and transport the cooler. This is especially important for small coolers, as they are often used for quick trips and need to be easy to handle. Features like comfortable handles, shoulder straps, and lightweight materials enhance portability. If you plan to carry the cooler over long distances or rough terrain, look for one with ergonomic handles or a shoulder strap. For simple, short-distance transport, a basic handle may be enough.
DurabilityDurability is about how well the cooler can withstand wear and tear. This is important if you plan to use the cooler frequently or in rugged environments. Look for coolers made from sturdy materials like high-density polyethylene or other tough plastics. Some coolers also have reinforced corners and latches for added durability. If you need a cooler that can handle rough handling and outdoor conditions, prioritize durability. For occasional use in more controlled environments, a less rugged model may be adequate.
Ice RetentionIce retention refers to how long the cooler can keep ice frozen. This is a critical spec if you need to keep items cold for extended periods. Ice retention times can vary widely, from a few hours to several days. For day trips or short outings, a cooler with moderate ice retention will work fine. If you need to keep items cold for a full day or longer, look for coolers with excellent ice retention capabilities. Consider the typical duration of your trips to determine the level of ice retention you need.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can enhance the functionality and convenience of your cooler. These might include built-in bottle openers, cup holders, dry storage compartments, or even wheels for easier transport. While not essential, these features can add value and make your cooler more versatile. Think about what extra features might be useful for your specific needs. For example, if you often bring bottled drinks, a built-in bottle opener could be handy. Choose features that align with how you plan to use the cooler.

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