The 10 Best Yeti Coolers
This wiki has been updated 26 times since it was first published in January of 2017. Many product categories have one or two brand names that are effectively shorthand for "high quality." When it comes to coolers, Yeti fits that definition. Their products are no doubt expensive, but most are also lifetime purchases. Their large, hard-walled coolers can keep ice frozen for days, while the smaller, soft-sided options are portable, durable, and convenient. When users buy our independently chosen editorial choices, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Tundra 125
2. Roadie Cooler
3. Hopper Two 30
Editor's Notes
April 14, 2020:
Anybody who has ever owned a Yeti cooler knows just how high quality they are. In fact, they are so coveted that many companies have taken to making low-cost copycats, though as with most things, it can be hard to outshine the original.
We actually eliminated a few coolers during this year's update not so much because they were bad or had any significant problems, but rather to add some variety to our recommendations. For example, we replaced the Tundra 210 and Tundra 50 Quart with the Tundra 125. All of these are from the same line and have the exact same features, so we didn't see the need to include two models at the opposite ends of the spectrum and, instead, replaced both with a mid-sized option that should be well-suited to most people's needs.
Doing that freed up a spot to include the Tundra Haul, which is the company's first and only wheeled model. Obviously, putting wheels onto something that is generally going to be very heavy when fully loaded makes it much more convenient to take to the beach or park. On the other hand, that also makes it not as ideal for use on a moving vessel, like a boat, for which we recommend either the aforementioned Tundra 125 for larger boats, or the Roadie Cooler and Hopper Two 30 for smaller ones. Both the hard-sided models have anchor points, so you can tie them down, while the soft-sided Hopper Two 30 is easier to stuff into compact spaces that may not accommodate a large square- or rectangular-shaped item. These are by no means the only options suitable for marine use and we have, in fact, put together an entire list of the best marine coolers that includes a number of options from other brands.
We also eliminated the Hopper Flip 12 and opted to only include the Hopper Backflip 2. While they are both soft-sided options, the Backflip 2 is a much better option if you going to be hiking a far distance to your campsite or picnic spot. While the former only has a single shoulder strap, the latter has two well-padded backpack-style straps, a load-distributing waist belt, and a stabilizing sternum strap. Because of these features, we find the Backflip 2 to be easier to carry, even with the fact that it offers twice the capacity of the Flip 12.
Eliminating the Flip 12 allowed us to add the Silo 6, which works great as a beverage dispenser for team sports and work sites. It features a push-button spigot, T-latches to keep its contents from spilling even if it gets knocked over, and a space-saving vertical design.
Special Honors
Rtic Coolers Rtic has been riding on Yeti's coattails for quite some time. They offer a very similar range of products and have created them to practically match Yeti on a feature by feature basis, but at a cheaper price point. While a relatively recent court case between the two companies ended with Rtic having to slightly alter some of their designs, they are still one of the best options if you don't have the money to splurge on a Yeti. rticcoolers.com
Pelican Coolers Another premium cooler manufacturer, we feel Pelican is one of the few companies that can truly compete with Yeti when it comes to overall durability and how long their products can hold ice. They offer both soft- and hard-sided models, the latter of which offer tie-down slots and non-marring raised feet. pelican.com
4. Tundra Haul
5. Hopper Backflip 24
6. Rambler Vacuum Insulated Bottle
7. Silo 6
8. Rambler Colster
9. Daytrip Packable Lunch Bag
10. Tank Bucket 45
A wandering writer who spends as much time on the road as in front of a laptop screen, Brett can either be found hacking away furiously at the keyboard or, perhaps, enjoying a whiskey and coke on some exotic beach, sometimes both simultaneously, usually with a four-legged companion by his side. He has been a professional chef, a dog trainer, and a travel correspondent for a well-known Southeast Asian guidebook. He also holds a business degree and has spent more time than he cares to admit in boring office jobs. He has an odd obsession for playing with the latest gadgets and working on motorcycles and old Jeeps. His expertise, honed over years of experience, is in the areas of computers, electronics, travel gear, pet products, and kitchen, office and automotive equipment.