Coolers & Ice Chests

Q: What’s the difference between a hard cooler and a soft cooler?

Hard coolers retain ice longer and are more durable, while soft coolers are lighter and portable.

Q: How long will ice last in a camping cooler?

Premium roto-molded coolers can keep ice up to 10 days, depending on temperature and usage.

Q: Are all coolers bear-proof?

No, only IGBC-certified coolers with locking mechanisms are bear-resistant.

Q: What’s the best cooler for car camping?

A 50–70 qt hard cooler or 12V electric cooler offers the best capacity and insulation for car camping.

Keep It Cool Anywhere — Premium Camping Coolers & Ice Chests

Camping Coolers & Ice Chests from The Outdoor Warehouse are built to keep your food and drinks cold in any environment. Whether you’re overlanding, tailgating, or spending a weekend at the lake, our hard coolers, soft coolers, electric 12V coolers, and roto-molded ice chests are made for long-lasting performance.

Choose from trusted brands and advanced designs featuring thick insulation, bear-resistant construction, and up to 10-day ice retention. Perfect for car camping, RV travel, or backcountry adventures.

Why Invest in a Quality Cooler?

Superior Insulation: Roto-molded coolers can hold ice for days in extreme heat.
Durability: Impact-resistant materials and reinforced lids built for rugged travel.
Convenience: Drain plugs, wheels, cup holders, and tie-downs for easy use.
Portability: Soft coolers and compact models ideal for short trips or hiking.
Bear-Resistant: Certified coolers protect your food and meet national park regulations.

Compare Popular Cooler Types

Type	Best For	Ice Retention	Key Features
Hard Coolers	Extended trips, base camps	5–10 days	Thick insulation, bear-resistant, heavy-duty handles
Soft Coolers	Day trips & picnics	1–3 days	Lightweight, shoulder straps, flexible materials
Electric / 12V Coolers	RV, overlanding, & long drives	Continuous cooling	Plug-in power, no ice required, adjustable temp
Wheeled Coolers	Car camping, tailgating	3–7 days	Easy transport, built-in drain plugs
Mini Coolers	Short solo trips or lunch use	1 day	Compact, lightweight, budget-friendly

Camping Cooler Buying Guide

Trip Length: For weekend camping, soft coolers are ideal. For week-long overlanding trips, choose large hard or electric models.
Capacity: Measured in quarts — 25–50 qt for small groups, 75–100+ qt for extended trips.
Insulation: Roto-molded and polyurethane foam insulation deliver the longest ice life.
Ease of Cleaning: Look for smooth interiors, drain plugs, and removable baskets.
Extras: Add food storage containers and fuel gear for a complete camp kitchen setup.

Pro Tip

Pre-chill your cooler and use block ice or reusable ice packs for longer retention. Keep frequently used items on top and open the lid sparingly. For multi-day trips, consider a dual-cooler setup — one for food and one for drinks.