Best Beach Cooler • Reviews & Buying Guide
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Best Beach Cooler • Reviews & Buying Guide (October 2024)

Updated: August 23, 2024

Yeti Hopper Two 30 Portable Beach Cooler

After 43 hours spent researching the best beach coolers, we think Yeti Hopper Two 30 Portable Beach Cooler is the best for most people.

This choice is based on several criteria: cooler type, color, dimensions, capacity, cold retention, storage, material, insulation, closure, carry handle(s), shoulder strap, drainage, durable, warranty, and best use, among other things.

 ProductPriceOverall RatingQualityEfficiencyDurabilityAppearanceValue for Moneycooler typecolordimensionscapacitycold retentionstoragematerialinsulationclosurecarry handle(s)shoulder strapdrainagedurablewarrantybest use
Yeti Hopper Two 30 Portable Beach CoolerYeti Hopper Two 30 Portable Beach CoolerCheck Price4.85.05.04.54.55.0Soft4 colors25 x 12 x 18 in24 beer cans4 days1 compartmentHigh density fabricCold cell foamHydrolock zipper2 sideYesNoYes3 yearsBeach, picnic, hiking, camping, fishing, hunting
Yeti Hopper Flip 18 Portable Beach CoolerYeti Hopper Flip 18 Portable Beach CoolerCheck Price4.95.05.05.04.55.0Soft6 colors15.7 x 10.2 x 12.6 in16 beer cans4 days1 compartmentHigh density fabricCold cell foamHydrolock zipper1 topYesNoYes3 yearsBeach, picnic, hiking, camping, fishing, hunting
Pelican Elite 50 Quart Beach CoolerPelican Elite 50 Quart Beach CoolerCheck Price4.65.04.54.04.55.0Hard6 colors30 x 20.3 x 20.4 in34 beer cans7-8 days1 compartmentPolypropylenePolyurethane foamPress / pull latches2 sideNoYesYes1 yearBeach, picnic, hiking, camping, fishing, hunting
Pelican Elite 20 Quart Beach CoolerPelican Elite 20 Quart Beach CoolerCheck Price4.34.54.04.04.54.5Hard5 colors18.8 x 12.6 x 17.7 in15 beer cans2 days1 compartmentPolypropylenePolyurethane foamPress / pull latches1 topNoYesYes1 yearBeach, picnic, hiking, camping, fishing, hunting
Tourit Leak-Proof Soft-Sided Beach CoolerTourit Leak-Proof Soft-Sided Beach CoolerCheck Price4.44.55.04.04.04.5Soft6 colors17.7 x 13.8 x 10 in39 beer cans3 days1 compartment, 2 sidepocketsPolyesterHigh-density foamAirtight zipper1 topYesNoYes1 yearBeach, picnic, hiking, camping, fishing, hunting
Best Beach Cooler

Food stays fresh for your beach adventure when you’ve got the best beach cooler to take care of everything.

Whether you’re storing away steaks or just need somewhere to store a cool beer, your cooler is at the center of any good day at the beach.

How do you pack for the beach? Most people start by grabbing a beach bag and throwing in the essentials – flip flops (or beach sandals, or water shoes), sunscreen, and a beach towel or beach mat. You may have a special sun hat for the occasion, as well.

But, if you’re an expert at this, you probably have a whole beach cart that you can fill up with everything that you want to take with you. Beach toys and a beach ball are musts if you’ve got kids or teens that will be with you.

Some people who regularly go to the beach will even have a beach umbrella (complete with beach umbrella anchor) or a beach tent for some comfort time out of the sun. And, you can’t forget essentials like your beach chair or two and a beach table so when you get there, you can set up your area for a day filled with fun.

If you’re spending the entire day at the beach, you want to have some beverages so that you can stay hydrated in the hot sun. You may even think about grilling some burgers or steaks for dinner, or packing sandwiches or salads that you can enjoy around lunchtime.

How do you keep it all at a safe temperature? With the best beach cooler, of course. If you’re a regular beachgoer, you need to own one or two high-end coolers so that food and drink problems don’t ruin your beach trips!

Selection Of The Best Beach Coolers

Here are the best beach coolers for most people according to Outlinist:

Yeti Hopper Two 30 Portable Beach Cooler

Yeti Hopper Two 30 Portable Beach Cooler
(rated 4.8 / 5)
Quality
Efficiency
Durability
Appearance
Value for Money
Check Price

The sand under your toes, the sound of the waves crashing against the shore – these are just a few reasons why everyone loves a trip to the beach.

A trip to the beach calls for bringing some drinks and snacks with you.

When you start planning summer beach trips, you’ll want to have a beach cooler on hand to bring all your refreshments with you. Choosing the right cooler for you depends on several different factors.

One of the best choices for beach trips is a nice soft-sided cooler, one that can reliably transport your stuff and keep it cold.

There are not many companies around that have a track record like Yeti for keeping things cold.

Information

This beach cooler is easy to transport, offering several handles for owners to take advantage of for easy moving.

If you’re on the lookout for the best soft sided cooler, you would be hard-pressed to find a better option than the Yeti Hopper Two 30 Portable Beach Cooler. Several things come to mind when it comes to making sure you get the perfect cooler for you, and those things are typically durability, portability, and how much you can fit in the cooler.

The Hopper Two 30 holds up magnificently in all of these departments. This cooler from Yeti offers superior ice retention, keeping your stuff cold for days. Whether you’re packing up some beers, sodas, or water for your beach trip, you can count on it to keep your stuff cold without worry.

You won’t find any extra frills with the Hopper Two 30, just a simple design that couldn’t be more straightforward. There are no outside pockets, only a zipper opening on the top of the cooler bag. There are several attachment areas, however, where you can secure things like keys or alternative shoulder straps.

cooler typeSoft
color4 colors
dimensions25 x 12 x 18 in
capacity24 beer cans
cold retention4 days
storage1 compartment
materialHigh density fabric
insulationCold cell foam
closureHydrolock zipper
carry handle(s)2 side
shoulder strapYes
drainageNo
durableYes
warranty3 years
best useBeach, picnic, hiking, camping, fishing, hunting

This beach cooler is easy to transport, as well, offering several handles for owners to take advantage of for easy moving. The Hopper Two 30 weighs in at 5.3 pounds when empty, making it nice, light, and easy for almost anyone to carry comfortably.

Durability is no joke with this cooler, either. Its heavy rubber exterior protects it from punctures, and the nylon straps are sure to hold up, too. Even the clips securing the straps on the bag are built to last.

Available in Yeti’s well-known color schemes of gray and blue or tan and orange, the Hopper Two 30 also holds true to Yeti’s well-known reputation for quality. This is one cooler that will definitely hold up and stand the test of time.

Pros

The Hopper Two is definitely built to last and will serve you well for a long time.

Made by a company that’s world-famous for its superior coolers, Yeti’s Hopper Two 30 is one fine beach cooler bag. Here are just a few of the many features that make it a great purchase.

  • Very well insulated: One of the most important parts of any cooler for the beach is insulation, and this beach cooler is no joke in this department. The great insulation job here is what allows for such a high ice retention time, and this cooler can keep your stuff cold for days on end with no troubles.
  • Light and easy to transport: The Hopper Two is easy for almost anyone to move around from place to place. At only 5.3 pounds, it is light and easy to pick up, and moving is made even easier by the three different handles; a shoulder strap, two straps at the top, and two straps on either side.
  • Durable and made to last: The Hopper Two is definitely built to last and will serve you well for a long time. Its rubber exterior keeps it protected from punctures while keeping your things safe and cold, and the included nylon straps are attached securely and won’t easily break off.
  • Minimal design guarantees simplicity: The Hopper Two is a simple, light affair. You won’t find many bells and whistles here, just a simple design that anyone can grasp just by looking at the cooler. There are no aesthetic distractions here, just one simple top pocket for loading and unloading your stuff.
  • This cooler has a great carrying capacity: The Hopper Two can haul quite a bit for a cooler of its size. It is able to hold 24 cans plus ice, or 6-foot-long sub sandwiches, or even 4 tubs of ice cream.
  • Leak proof and airtight: This cooler isn’t going to leak on you, and is easy to seal with the HydroLok zipper. This ensures nothing is spilled and the cold is kept inside the cooler.

Cons

From the durability, simplicity, and ease of transport that it offers, this cooler can be an enticing purchase. It is important to remember that as with everything else in life, even the Hopper Two 30 has a few drawbacks.

  • Zipper can be sticky: The zipper on the Hopper Two can sometimes be a little sticky, but that is easy to address with the zipper lubricant that Yeti includes in the package.
  • Bulky construction can make it hard to carry long distances: The heft that comes from all the insulation and durability comes at a small price. It can be a little difficult and awkward for some folks to carry longer distances due to the added bulk.
  • Simple design also means some features may be missing: The simplicity of the design of the Yeti means that some features you may expect from these types of coolers may be missing. You won’t find any external pockets or other such amenities.
 

Yeti Hopper Two 30 Portable Beach CoolerYeti Hopper Two 30 Portable Beach Cooler

Yeti Hopper Flip 18 Portable Beach CoolerYeti Hopper Flip 18 Portable Beach Cooler

Pelican Elite 50 Quart Beach CoolerPelican Elite 50 Quart Beach Cooler

PriceCheck PriceCheck PriceCheck Price
cooler typeSoftSoftHard
color4 colors6 colors6 colors
dimensions25 x 12 x 18 in15.7 x 10.2 x 12.6 in30 x 20.3 x 20.4 in
capacity24 beer cans16 beer cans34 beer cans
cold retention4 days4 days7-8 days
storage1 compartment1 compartment1 compartment
materialHigh density fabricHigh density fabricPolypropylene
insulationCold cell foamCold cell foamPolyurethane foam
closureHydrolock zipperHydrolock zipperPress / pull latches
carry handle(s)2 side1 top2 side
shoulder strapYesYesNo
drainageNoNoYes
durableYesYesYes
warranty3 years3 years1 year
best useBeach, picnic, hiking, camping, fishing, huntingBeach, picnic, hiking, camping, fishing, huntingBeach, picnic, hiking, camping, fishing, hunting

Summary

For summer trips to the beach, you’ll want the best cooler bag on your side, and that is exactly what Yeti has made here.

If you’re looking for the best cooler for the money, the Yeti Hopper Two 30 Portable Beach Cooler should be at the top of your list. It is a fine beach cooler bag, guaranteeing you a durable and easy to move product that will keep your stuff cold for days on end.

For summer trips to the beach, you’ll want the best cooler bag on your side, and that is exactly what Yeti has made here. A simple and easy to use cooler that can hold plenty of stuff, you can carry your food and drinks confidently knowing they will stay cold and protected.

Does any of this sound like a good deal to you? If so, the Hopper Two 30 may just be the perfect beach cooler for you. Grab one for yourself, and you’ll be all set for your next trip to the beach with your friends and family.


Yeti Hopper Flip 18 Portable Beach Cooler

Yeti Hopper Flip 18 Portable Beach Cooler
(rated 4.9 / 5)
Quality
Efficiency
Durability
Appearance
Value for Money
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Whether you live in a sunny climate or you are visiting one for the summer, you are sure to hit the beach with your friends and family at some point.

When that time comes, you’re surely going to be bringing food and drinks with you. That is where a great beach cooler comes in to save the day.

Whether you’re drinking beer with your buddies or packing drinks for the kids, having a beach cooler by your side is something to be happy about.

Your food and drinks will stay cold for hours while you and your family enjoy the water and relax under the sun.

There truly is nothing better than a day at the beach!

Information

The Yeti even has Hitchpoint grids, a feature where you can add special attachments.

When you’re on the hunt for the ultimate beach cooler, you won’t have to look much further than the Yeti Hopper Flip 18 Portable Beach Cooler. This soft-sided cooler has a host of benefits to help make it your favorite companion on the beach, aside from just keeping your drinks and snacks cold.

The Yeti 18 has an airtight, leak proof design, utilizing a HydroLok zipper that keeps in the cold and keeps out the heat. Other soft-sided coolers are particularly prone to leakage, but this is not the case with this cooler. That’s because the Yeti has a radio frequency weld, meaning that its plastics are bonded together using pressure and electromagnetism, forming a tough seal.

The Yeti has a Waterproof DryHide Shell, which is the tough exterior of the cooler. It is resistant to mildew as well as punctures, and even UV rays from the sun. The liner inside is even made from a food-grade material approved by the FDA.

cooler typeSoft
color6 colors
dimensions15.7 x 10.2 x 12.6 in
capacity16 beer cans
cold retention4 days
storage1 compartment
materialHigh density fabric
insulationCold cell foam
closureHydrolock zipper
carry handle(s)1 top
shoulder strapYes
drainageNo
durableYes
warranty3 years
best useBeach, picnic, hiking, camping, fishing, hunting

The interior dimensions are 14.25″ x 10.25″ x 8.5″. It can hold a capacity of 17.8 liters, and weighs exactly 5.1 pounds. The cooler is made from 840D polyurethane with foam insulation.

The Yeti even has Hitchpoint grids, a feature where you can add special attachments. Things like MOLLE bottle openers and Zingers are a few accessories that can be added onto this cooler, and are sold separately.

Ultimately, it wouldn’t be a cooler if it didn’t excel at keeping your stuff cold, and the Yeti outperforms many other coolers in that department, too. Yeti has produced a soft-sided cooler that can keep your stuff cold reliably for days, even when the sun is bearing down on top of it. Paired with the HydroLok seal, your Yeti is a beast that the heat just can’t beat.

Pros

The Yeti is tough as nails, and its DryHide exterior shell will stand up to any use.

When it comes to true value for money, you would have a hard time picking out a better cooler than the feature-packed Yeti Hopper Flip 18. If you’re looking for a cooler that has everything, you’ve found it in this model.

  • Space-saving, easy to pack shape: The Yeti 18 is shaped like a cube, which makes it super simple to load. The square design also fits neatly with other stuff when packing up the car. No need to figure out how to pack around an oddly-shaped item with this cooler.
  • Grab on the go with ease: The Yeti has a double stitched top handle that makes it simple to just pick up and head out whenever you’d like. It also has a padded shoulder strap that can make it simple to fling over your shoulder and walk with.
  • Thick ColdCell insulation: This thick layer of closed-cell rubber foam is a superior choice when it comes to keeping your stuff cold for days. This alone should earn the Yeti a spot on the list for the best soft-sided cooler for the beach.
  • This cooler will not leak: The Yeti’s brilliant design and construction makes it comes leak proof. Thanks to that patented HydroLok zipper, you won’t have to worry about water or anything else getting into your cooler, or about anything leaking out either.
  • Will handle a beating: This is one durable cooler. The Yeti is tough as nails, and its DryHide exterior shell will stand up to any use. It’s puncture resistant and won’t scratch easily. No worries about rocky beaches with this cooler.
  • Easy on your body: For a cooler that appears quite large, the Yeti is quite light and easy to transport. Weighing in at only 5.1 pounds when empty, the Yeti is not a very heavy cooler and is easy for almost anyone to carry comfortably.

Cons

High performing, easy to carry, durable and leak proof, the soft-sided Yeti 18 cooler checks almost every box. But as with almost any other product you might purchase, the Yeti Hopper Flip does have its drawbacks.

  • Extra insulation cuts down on space: While the Yeti has plenty of insulation to ensure your stuff stays cold for days, that extra insulation does come at the cost of not having quite as much space inside.
  • Might not be the best option for rugged environments: While the Yeti is durable, it is still not as durable as a hard-sided cooler. For fishing or hunting expeditions, a hard sided cooler could be a better option.
  • Make sure to use the included zipper lubricant: Yeti includes some lubricant for the zipper with this cooler. Making sure to use it will be a big help for owners, as sometimes the zipper may get stuck or not zip completely, so always make sure to double-check.
 

Yeti Hopper Flip 18 Portable Beach CoolerYeti Hopper Flip 18 Portable Beach Cooler

Yeti Hopper Two 30 Portable Beach CoolerYeti Hopper Two 30 Portable Beach Cooler

Pelican Elite 50 Quart Beach CoolerPelican Elite 50 Quart Beach Cooler

PriceCheck PriceCheck PriceCheck Price
cooler typeSoftSoftHard
color6 colors4 colors6 colors
dimensions15.7 x 10.2 x 12.6 in25 x 12 x 18 in30 x 20.3 x 20.4 in
capacity16 beer cans24 beer cans34 beer cans
cold retention4 days4 days7-8 days
storage1 compartment1 compartment1 compartment
materialHigh density fabricHigh density fabricPolypropylene
insulationCold cell foamCold cell foamPolyurethane foam
closureHydrolock zipperHydrolock zipperPress / pull latches
carry handle(s)1 top2 side2 side
shoulder strapYesYesNo
drainageNoNoYes
durableYesYesYes
warranty3 years3 years1 year
best useBeach, picnic, hiking, camping, fishing, huntingBeach, picnic, hiking, camping, fishing, huntingBeach, picnic, hiking, camping, fishing, hunting

Summary

The Yeti brand has a long line of happy customers with several great products, and the Flip 18 cooler is no exception.

If you’re looking for the best soft cooler, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better option than the Yeti Hopper Flip 18 Portable Beach Cooler. Ridiculously easy to transport, lightweight, watertight and leak proof, with superior ice retention, this cooler is feature-packed and hard to beat.

The Yeti brand has a long line of happy customers with several great products, and the Flip 18 cooler is no exception. It is a great value for the money, and anyone who is in the market for a soft-sided cooler should give this one a good look.

If you want a product with the quality that makes Yeti famous, with the bragging rights that you own the coolest cooler, then you should look no further than the Hopper Flip 18. You’ll feel as cool as your drinks carrying this beach cooler around.


Pelican Elite 50 Quart Beach Cooler

Pelican Elite 50 Quart Beach Cooler
(rated 4.6 / 5)
Quality
Efficiency
Durability
Appearance
Value for Money
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Do you remember those old Styrofoam coolers? You know, the ones that maybe kept your ice frozen for around an hour at the beach before it melted?

Beach coolers have come a long way since those days of old. Nowadays you can find professional-grade coolers that can keep your ice nice and cold for over a week.

When you’re looking for the best cooler for the money, you will want to see as many features and specs as possible. In fact, there are several options on the market for high-end coolers.

You can count on these coolers to keep your drinks cold whether you’re getting ready for a day on the beach or preparing for a hunting or fishing trip.

When going out on such expeditions, you’ll want a sturdy and reliable beach cooler to accompany you.

Information

This high-end, hard-sided cooler sports a sturdy design that will last a long time.

When you’re shopping around for best beach coolers on the market, one option you won’t want to miss is the Pelican Elite 50 Quart Beach Cooler. No matter what kind of adventures you have planned, this cooler will not let you down.

This high-end, hard-sided cooler sports a sturdy design that will last a long time. It affords its owners top of the line cooling capabilities, being able to retain ice for ten days. It is even marketed as being bear-proof!

You won’t want to be carrying it too far on your own, however, as it weighs in at a total of 26.3 pounds when empty. A heavier cooler indeed, but worth it when it is so feature-packed.

cooler typeHard
color6 colors
dimensions30 x 20.3 x 20.4 in
capacity34 beer cans
cold retention7-8 days
storage1 compartment
materialPolypropylene
insulationPolyurethane foam
closurePress / pull latches
carry handle(s)2 side
shoulder strapNo
drainageYes
durableYes
warranty1 year
best useBeach, picnic, hiking, camping, fishing, hunting

This Pelican 50 quart cooler has a volume of 52.87 quarts, which equals a little less than 50 liters. The exterior of the cooler has measurements of 30.00″ x 20.30″ x 20.40″.

The bulk of the cooler is made of polypropylene. Beverages and other content inside the cooler are kept as cold as possible with the help of two full inches of polyurethane insulation lining the walls of the cooler.

Pelican hasn’t forgotten the niceties either, including a handy stainless steel bottle opener and providing 9 different color combinations. You can choose a bright red and blue to stand out, gray with a strip of neon green for a little flair, or classic white for a cool table top at the beach.

Pros

Every Pelican cooler sold comes with a lifetime guarantee from Pelican themselves, giving you peace of mind when using your cooler.

No longer will you have to worry about having your ice melt in the cooler again. The Pelican Elite cooler has proven that it has what it takes to be known as the ultimate beach cooler.

  • Superior ice retention: Lined with a thick 2 inches of polyurethane and a freezer-grade gasket to secure the lid, this Pelican Elite does its cooling job extremely well. Testing has proven that it takes up to 9 or 10 days for ice to start melting.
  • Molded handles that make for a sturdier construction: This cooler features handles that are molded right into the sides so they won’t snap or break like handles that are attached after construction. The handles are ergonomically designed as well, making carrying the cooler a comfier experience.
  • Guaranteed for life by Pelican: Every Pelican cooler sold comes with a lifetime guarantee from Pelican themselves, giving you peace of mind when using your cooler. Not every company offers such a guarantee, so that is always a welcome thing to see.
  • Built in cup holders and bottle opener: This cooler can be one of the best options to take to the beach with you to have a beer with your friends by the ocean. Not only will your beer stay cold for quite a while in the cooler’s built in cup holders, but you will also be able to take advantage of the cooler’s built in bottle opener.
  • Two push button ABS latches help secure your stuff: The lid on this cooler securely closes down with two heavy-duty ABS latches. The latches are push button, very easy to operate and help ensure the lid stays securely shut, keeping your food and beverages inside the cooler safe and airtight.
  • Quick and easy to drain: The drain plug to this cooler is easy to screw on or off, and is attached to a rotating ring for ease of use. The floor of the cooler is designed for quick drainage, and it can even accept a regular hose should you need to drain somewhere else.

Cons

There is no doubt that the Pelican Elite 50 quart model does a great job at keeping your food and drinks cold for long stretches of time. As with anything else, however, there are a few things you will want to think about to make sure this is the right cooler for you.

  • A bit on the heavier side: Because of its durable and solid design, as well as how well insulated it is, these coolers weigh close to 27 pounds by themselves. The good news is that the molded, ergonomically designed handles won’t break off once you load it up.
  • Takes up a lot of room: Make sure when packing up for your trips that you have a plan for where you will store this cooler, as it is quite bulky. You’ll want to make sure you have plenty of room in the back of your vehicle or that you have a good sized trunk.
  • The latches can bite your fingers: When you are getting ready to close the cooler up, you will always want to make sure you’re not wrapping your fingers around the inside of the latch. It can (and will!) close down on your fingers if you’re not paying attention.
 

Pelican Elite 50 Quart Beach CoolerPelican Elite 50 Quart Beach Cooler

Yeti Hopper Two 30 Portable Beach CoolerYeti Hopper Two 30 Portable Beach Cooler

Yeti Hopper Flip 18 Portable Beach CoolerYeti Hopper Flip 18 Portable Beach Cooler

PriceCheck PriceCheck PriceCheck Price
cooler typeHardSoftSoft
color6 colors4 colors6 colors
dimensions30 x 20.3 x 20.4 in25 x 12 x 18 in15.7 x 10.2 x 12.6 in
capacity34 beer cans24 beer cans16 beer cans
cold retention7-8 days4 days4 days
storage1 compartment1 compartment1 compartment
materialPolypropyleneHigh density fabricHigh density fabric
insulationPolyurethane foamCold cell foamCold cell foam
closurePress / pull latchesHydrolock zipperHydrolock zipper
carry handle(s)2 side2 side1 top
shoulder strapNoYesYes
drainageYesNoNo
durableYesYesYes
warranty1 year3 years3 years
best useBeach, picnic, hiking, camping, fishing, huntingBeach, picnic, hiking, camping, fishing, huntingBeach, picnic, hiking, camping, fishing, hunting

Summary

The Pelican Elite will hold up for a lifetime, and they will keep your drinks and food iced down for days.

If you are in the market for the best beach cooler or just a heavy-duty cooler that will keep your stuff cold on a trip to the beach or even a fishing or hunting trip, then the Pelican Elite 50 Quart Beach Cooler may be the perfect match for you.

The Pelican Elite will hold up for a lifetime, and they will keep your drinks and food iced down for days. This is a huge deal for folks who love trips to the beach, campers and outdoorsmen in particular, as they may be out in nature for days with no fridge. This cooler will have your back in such situations.

All in all, this is a great beach cooler from Pelican that will serve anyone who purchases one well. With an array of great features and a lifetime guarantee to back it up, it can be tough to say no to one of these nice coolers.


Pelican Elite 20 Quart Beach Cooler

Pelican Elite 20 Quart Beach Cooler
(rated 4.3 / 5)
Quality
Efficiency
Durability
Appearance
Value for Money
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What’s better than the summer time? We all probably have different scenarios that run through our heads when we imagine our favorite summer activities.

Some of us might be thinking about going out with our friends for a night on the town, while some of us might imagine late night drives with our favorite person.

A huge majority of us will imagine a beautiful day on the beach, spending time with some of our favorite people on the beach.

People everywhere hit the beach every year, and one of the most fun things about a trip to the beach is bringing some drinks and snacks for everyone to enjoy.

You will want to have a reliable beach cooler that can keep all those goodies cold, though.

Information

This cooler has cup holders molded right into the lid, making it easy for you to put your drink somewhere safe when it’s not in your hands.

When you decide to start shopping around for the best beach cooler for your needs, you should definitely consider the Pelican Elite 20 Quart Beach Cooler. This cooler is hard sided and capable of carrying up to 19 liters. It is made of polypropylene, ABS plastic, polyurethane, and stainless steel. It weighs in at 12 pounds and 8 ounces.

The Pelican Elite offers several great benefits that make it worth the money, as well. It is able to hold 15 beverage cans, or can carry up to 3 upright wine bottles. It is also durable, rugged, and easy to transport. These benefits all add up to a great experience.

The Pelican affords its owners up to three days of ice retention, keeping your drinks and snacks reliably cold. This is great for people who want to spend the weekend at the beach.

cooler typeHard
color5 colors
dimensions18.8 x 12.6 x 17.7 in
capacity15 beer cans
cold retention2 days
storage1 compartment
materialPolypropylene
insulationPolyurethane foam
closurePress / pull latches
carry handle(s)1 top
shoulder strapNo
drainageYes
durableYes
warranty1 year
best useBeach, picnic, hiking, camping, fishing, hunting

This cooler has cup holders molded right into the lid, making it easy for you to put your drink somewhere safe when it’s not in your hands. It isn’t going to open unless you really want it too, either, because the press and pull latches keep the lid secure.

Carrying comfort is maximized by a few design flourishes on this cooler, too. It has a contoured side and an easy-carry handle, making it easy to transport it, no matter how much stuff it’s loaded up with.

The smaller size of this cooler compared to some others in the competition makes it easier to move around, as well. Some coolers won’t fit comfortably on the seats of the car, but the Pelican Elite is an exception to this rule. Its smaller size makes it more maneuverable and manageable.

Pros

The Pelican Elite has a metal locking hasp to prevent spillage, along with thick rubber feet to keep it balanced on slippery surfaces.

The Pelican Elite is one nifty cooler, with a lot of features adding up to help make it the ultimate beach cooler, and one of the best options for people looking for a cooler that has everything.

  • This cooler has a built in bottle opener: Maybe you brought some beer with you in your cooler, and somehow managed to forget your bottle opener. No need to fret, because your Pelican Elite cooler has a bottle opener built right in for your convenience.
  • Very well insulated: The insulation on the Pelican Elite is no joke, sporting two inches of polyurethane foam insulation to keep your stuff cold and moisture out. Your cooler is waterproof, giving you peace of mind for your trip to the beach.
  • Easy to transport: The Pelican Elite comes with two different sets of handles to make moving it an easier task. The two handles on the cooler help to evenly distribute its weight, ensuring that everyone can move it easily without hurting themselves.
  • Guaranteed for life by Pelican: Pelican is so confident in the quality of the cooler that they have built, they cover it for life. With one of their taglines being “You break it, we’ll replace it”, you know they feel pretty good about the quality of their construction.
  • Safe and secure: The Pelican Elite has a metal locking hasp to prevent spillage, along with thick rubber feet to keep it balanced on slippery surfaces. It is also kept secure by three locking latches, making it easy to secure your things and not worrying about anything from the outside getting inside, or vice versa.
  • Easy to clean: All the metal parts on the Pelican Elite are made from smooth stainless steel, making it easy to clean and take care of. It is resistant to corrosion, meaning that mud, sand, and heavy downpours will have no effect on your cooler.

Cons

The Pelican Elite offers many benefits, such as ease of transport, security of everything inside of it, and a lifetime warranty straight from Pelican. As with every other product you can purchase, however, there are a few things you’ll want to consider before making your final purchase decision.

  • The Pelican Elite is on the heavier side: This cooler is on the heavier side of the scale for coolers, weighing almost 13 pounds. This isn’t very heavy by itself, but once you load it down, the heft can add up pretty quickly.
  • The upright design means the cooler might fall over: Be careful when placing the cooler, as the design might help it topple over in the right conditions. You’ll want to double check to make sure that it is securely on the ground before leaving it alone, to prevent it from falling over and spilling your stuff.
  • Rubber seal may be problematic: If your Pelican Elite came with a faulty rubber seal, you’ll want to get in touch with Pelican to address the issue. Not every unit is affected, but it is something to keep in mind when purchasing.
 

Pelican Elite 20 Quart Beach CoolerPelican Elite 20 Quart Beach Cooler

Yeti Hopper Two 30 Portable Beach CoolerYeti Hopper Two 30 Portable Beach Cooler

Yeti Hopper Flip 18 Portable Beach CoolerYeti Hopper Flip 18 Portable Beach Cooler

PriceCheck PriceCheck PriceCheck Price
cooler typeHardSoftSoft
color5 colors4 colors6 colors
dimensions18.8 x 12.6 x 17.7 in25 x 12 x 18 in15.7 x 10.2 x 12.6 in
capacity15 beer cans24 beer cans16 beer cans
cold retention2 days4 days4 days
storage1 compartment1 compartment1 compartment
materialPolypropyleneHigh density fabricHigh density fabric
insulationPolyurethane foamCold cell foamCold cell foam
closurePress / pull latchesHydrolock zipperHydrolock zipper
carry handle(s)1 top2 side1 top
shoulder strapNoYesYes
drainageYesNoNo
durableYesYesYes
warranty1 year3 years3 years
best useBeach, picnic, hiking, camping, fishing, huntingBeach, picnic, hiking, camping, fishing, huntingBeach, picnic, hiking, camping, fishing, hunting

Summary

It offers plenty of advantages for the money, giving you a durable cooler that is going to last you for a long time.

At the end of the day, the Pelican Elite 20 Quart Beach Cooler is a great option to consider. When you’re looking for the best beach cooler for your family, you’ll have trouble finding a better option than the Pelican Elite.

For some, it could be the best cooler on the market. It offers plenty of advantages for the money, giving you a durable cooler that is going to last you for a long time. The secure latches guarantee that your stuff stays safe and not spilled, while the superior insulation ensures your drinks and snacks stay cold for days.

When shopping around for a beach cooler, keep the Pelican Elite in mind. It could just be the best option for you and your family, helping serve up cold drinks on your next outing to the beach.


Tourit Leak-Proof Soft-Sided Beach Cooler

Tourit Leak-Proof Soft-Sided Beach Cooler
(rated 4.4 / 5)
Quality
Efficiency
Durability
Appearance
Value for Money
Check Price

What crosses your mind when you imagine a trip to the beach? Maybe you think of the crashing of the waves against the shore, or wading into the ocean and going for a swim.

Perhaps you imagine sitting in the sand with your family or best friends, kicking back and having a drink.

If that latter scenario sounds like something that is running through your mind, you might consider getting a great beach cooler for your beach outings.

A quality cooler can hold all of your drinks and snacks, keeping them cold for hours or even days on end. The best coolers are durable, easy to carry, and will hold all of your things comfortably.

Luckily, when it comes to quality soft coolers, the folks at Tourit are making quality products that really get the job done.

Information

The shell of the backpack cooler is waterproof and airtight, keeping the heat and everything else out.

When you’re looking for the best soft cooler, it is hard to argue with the great products made by Tourit. The Tourit Leak-Proof Soft Sided Beach Cooler is no exception here. This cooler does something a little different, offering a cooler in the form of a backpack.

It sports a unique design that you don’t see in any coolers of its caliber. Sleek and modern, you’ll be showing off your best backpack cooler to everyone at the beach.

cooler typeSoft
color6 colors
dimensions17.7 x 13.8 x 10 in
capacity39 beer cans
cold retention3 days
storage1 compartment, 2 sidepockets
materialPolyester
insulationHigh-density foam
closureAirtight zipper
carry handle(s)1 top
shoulder strapYes
drainageNo
durableYes
warranty1 year
best useBeach, picnic, hiking, camping, fishing, hunting

This Tourit cooler backpack is very well made. The material comprising the cooler is leak proof, keeping everything inside and cold. The shell of the backpack cooler is waterproof and airtight, keeping the heat and everything else out.

It works well in rugged situations, with a durable outer shell that will not easily tear. This also protects the interior insulation, making sure that nothing punctures it as well as keeping everything inside cool and protected.

The liner inside of the Tourit cooler is antimicrobial and resistant to things like mold and mildew. It also proves very easy to clean. As if that wasn’t enough, it is incredibly easy to zip up for airtightness, and all you have to do is zip up with the pull tab. It couldn’t be any simpler.

Pros

The Tourit comes with a little extra storage space for when you just can’t get everything in the main compartments.

One of the best parts about the Tourit backpack cooler is that, right out of the box, it comes with many features that make it a compelling buy. Just what advantages does this outstanding cooler offer?

  • Superior ice retention: Thanks to the insulation job done, the backpack cooler can keep your ice frozen for at least three days. There are three layers of insulation. The outer layer is completely waterproof, the middle layer is actual insulation made of high density foam. The interior layer is another one that is leak-proof, to ensure that nothing gets out of the cooler.
  • Rugged and tough construction: When you imagine any sort of backpack, you picture something that is built tough to take anywhere. This is also the case with the Tourit. It is very well made and durable. The outer shell is tough and waterproof, ensuring you’re not going to tear it easily.
  • Easy to carry: The Tourit is really easy to transport. In fact, you can carry it three different ways. You can use the detachable shoulder strap to carry the cooler like a backpack, you can use the top handle to carry it from the top, or you can use the side handles for heavier loads. Multiple ways to carry it makes it more accessible and easier to transport for different people.
  • Extra storage space: The Tourit comes with a little extra storage space for when you just can’t get everything in the main compartments. You’ll find a zippered pocket on the front and two mesh pockets on either side for added carrying capacity.
  • Two fun colors to choose from: The Tourit backpack cooler comes in two fun colors for you to choose from. Make your backpack cooler a fashion statement by choosing between navy blue and cool grey options.
  • A lifetime warranty has your back: Tourit gives anyone who purchases the backpack cooler a lifetime warranty. This gives you peace of mind knowing you are covered if anything were to happen to your cooler.

Cons

It’s easy to carry, made well, comes in a few fun colors, and is backed by a warranty straight from the manufacturer. This cooler has a lot of things going for it, and of course, there are a few things that the Tourit could do just a little bit better.

  • Gets a little heavy when weighed down: If you intend to load this cooler to its capacity, you might want to think twice about carrying it backpack-style, because it will get heavy. Instead of having a drag on your back, you can take advantage of one of the alternative carrying methods, such as the top or side handles.
  • Not as much capacity as other coolers: While the Tourit is one fine product, its capacity isn’t quite as large as other coolers you can find. The main allure to the Tourit is the sheer number of ways you can carry it.
  • Condensation can occur: Although leak proof, condensation can form on the outside if left in an enclosed hot space for hours. You may want to put a towel under it if packing it in the trunk for a long car ride on a hot day.
 

Tourit Leak-Proof Soft-Sided Beach CoolerTourit Leak-Proof Soft-Sided Beach Cooler

Yeti Hopper Two 30 Portable Beach CoolerYeti Hopper Two 30 Portable Beach Cooler

Yeti Hopper Flip 18 Portable Beach CoolerYeti Hopper Flip 18 Portable Beach Cooler

PriceCheck PriceCheck PriceCheck Price
cooler typeSoftSoftSoft
color6 colors4 colors6 colors
dimensions17.7 x 13.8 x 10 in25 x 12 x 18 in15.7 x 10.2 x 12.6 in
capacity39 beer cans24 beer cans16 beer cans
cold retention3 days4 days4 days
storage1 compartment, 2 sidepockets1 compartment1 compartment
materialPolyesterHigh density fabricHigh density fabric
insulationHigh-density foamCold cell foamCold cell foam
closureAirtight zipperHydrolock zipperHydrolock zipper
carry handle(s)1 top2 side1 top
shoulder strapYesYesYes
drainageNoNoNo
durableYesYesYes
warranty1 year3 years3 years
best useBeach, picnic, hiking, camping, fishing, huntingBeach, picnic, hiking, camping, fishing, huntingBeach, picnic, hiking, camping, fishing, hunting

Summary

Looking for the best soft cooler can be a tough undertaking, but if you’re looking for something that is durable and easy to carry, the Tourit is a good option.

The bottom line is, if you’re looking for the best insulated backpack cooler bag, you don’t have to look any further than this Tourit. A unique product with a durable design, this beach cooler does exactly what it says it will do: keep your food and drinks cold and protected.

Looking for the best soft cooler can be a tough undertaking, but if you’re looking for something that is durable and easy to carry, the Tourit is a good option. With three different ways to carry it, you are given the ability to take your cooler bag anywhere you want with ease.

When you’re ready to hit the beach with your friends and family with plenty of cold drinks and snacks, you can count on the Tourit Leak-Proof Soft-Sided Beach Cooler to have your back. You’ll have the peace of mind knowing your stuff is nice and cold, as well as having the neatest cooler on the beach.

Buying Guide

Size

The size of the cooler you get is dependent on how much you plan on taking with you. If you’re just taking a few drinks to get you through the day, the best small cooler will be just fine for your purposes.

If you’re taking an entire meal, then you want to look for something that is at least 30 gallons in capacity, if not more. You also need to be sure that it can fit in the vehicle you plan on taking with you.

Ice Life

The lifespan of your ice is a very important metric to consider, because you don’t want to have a cooler where the ice is going to melt within a couple of hours.

Many coolers will tell you the ice life in their description. You’re looking for something that lasts at least a day. If you’re going beach camping, then you want to seek out the large, bulky options that have an ice life of a week or more.

Access to Items Inside

One of the biggest problems with coolers is the fact that people are often opening and closing the lid, which lets the warm air in and the cold air out.

You can reduce the impact of this issue in a couple of ways. Wider coolers make it so that you don’t have to dig as deep for items, which means that the lid is open for a much shorter period of time. You can also find coolers with mini access lids, where you can fit your hand through and not much else, reducing how much warm air gets in.

Unique Appearance

You don’t want to mix your cooler up with the cooler of the people next to you at the beach, right? Investing in cute beach coolers can be a good way to deal with that sort of problem.

Get a design or color combination that you enjoy. Consider adding stickers to it or label it with your last name. The more unique that your cooler looks, the easier it will be for you to pick it out and the less likely someone else will accidentally use it.

Mobility

If you have a larger cooler, be sure that you find the best beach cooler with wheels. These usually have a handle on the front, allowing you to pull it along instead of forcing you to lift it.

Smaller coolers are often much more portable, so just look for handles that are easy to grip. Other coolers may have some sort of shoulder sling or other option that will make it simple to take with you.

Soft Coolers

One of the latest trends in coolers is the beach cooler bag, also referred to as a soft cooler. These coolers are made from fabric and they are lighter, less insulated, and easier to transport.

These are great if you’re just going down to the beach for a couple of hours and you’re bringing drinks and snacks with you. If you’re planning a full-day excursion, then you’re probably a lot better off with a hard cooler.

Hard Coolers

When someone says the word “cooler”, you’re likely thinking about a hard cooler. These coolers are usually in the shape of a rectangular chest and they are built to last. They hold a lot of ice for a long time, making it easy to store perishable items.

Hard coolers often come in much larger sizes and are meant for either larger groups of people or for trips where you plan on having an old-fashioned cookout on the beach.

Color

The color of your cooler isn’t just going to help you pick it out from other coolers – but it can actually play a pretty significant role as to how well it keeps things cold.

White coolers, along with other lighter colored coolers, are going to keep your food colder for longer because the light from the sun reflects off of the cooler. Darker colored coolers are going to absorb the light, which increases the interior temperature and causes the ice life to be a bit shorter.

How Do You Carry It?

If you have a smaller cooler, then you want to take a look at how you carry it. Carry handles are fairly convenient, but they do require you to have one or both hands free, which can be hard when you’re getting ready for a day on the beach.

The best beach cooler bag (or honestly, the most convenient one) is going to have a shoulder strap. This allows you to throw it on your back, leaving your hands free to carry whatever else you want to take to the beach.

Material

If you’re looking at soft coolers that don’t leak, you will find that the best ones are made with vinyl on the inside layer (if not both inside and outside). Other soft coolers are made with different types of food-grade fabric.

Hard coolers are usually made with roto-molded hard plastic, which helps to keep the cold inside of the cooler and prevents any sort of leaks or spaces where warm air could get into the cooler and melt the ice.

Additional Insulation

Insulation is essential for keeping things cold, and most coolers have at least a couple of layers of insulation that help to keep everything as cold as possible.

You can also buy additional insulation for coolers, if you want to give it a little bit of help. Foam insulation, box liners, and a variety of other options are available for extra cost from food supply stores and from cooler companies.

Drainage

If you’ve got a lot of ice in your cooler, you need to be sure that you have a way to get rid of water as it melts. While most people are fine just tipping the whole thing over, that doesn’t work if there are still drinks, food, and/or more ice in there.

Drainage can come in any number of ways, but there’s usually some sort of drain plug. You open up the drain plug and let the water drain out – it’s that easy! It’s also easy to install a drain plug on pretty much any cooler.

Durability

The ultimate beach cooler is one that is going to last you a number of years, making it well worth any investment that you put into purchasing it.

If there are rubber gaskets that help to seal your lid, you want them to be able to seal for a long time. Also, if your cooler is outside most of the time, you want to get a cooler made from material that isn’t going to become brittle from exposure to the sun. Many hard coolers are built to last 10 to 15 years, if well taken care of.

Ease of Cleaning

When you get home from a day on the beach, you don’t want to spend an hour trying to clean out your cooler.

Both soft and hard coolers are made from materials that are meant to be simple to clean. All you need to do is wipe them down with a soft, wet cloth or a food-safe cleaning wipe. When you need a heavy-duty clean, these same materials are easily cleaned with a simple hosing.

Accessories

Have you ever seen a beach cooler with speakers? Maybe you’re looking at one with cup holders or a bottle opener? Waterproof lid seals are more of a standard than an accessory nowadays, but raised legs are still not as common as other cooler accessories.

The best beach cooler is one that has everything that you need in order to be comfortable and enjoy your day on the beach – and that includes any accessories you want included with your purchase.

Yeti Hopper Two 30 Portable Beach Cooler
Our pick for the best beach cooler is: Yeti Hopper Two 30 Portable Beach Cooler. This choice was made after spending 39 hours researching beach coolers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the term roto-molded mean?

When you’re looking at coolers, you may find the term “roto-molded”. This is specifically referring to hard coolers, and it’s something that you want to keep an eye out for.

In short, something (in this case, plastic) that is roto-molded is manufactured in such a way that it creates uniform sides and walls. There are no seals (except the ones around the lid) in a roto-molded cooler, and it makes these coolers much less susceptible to leaks.

How can I determine what size cooler is best for my family or friend group?

When you’re purchasing a cooler, it’s a good idea to know how many people that you’re going to be using that cooler with on a regular basis.

Here are some general numbers you can use when you’re trying to choose how many gallons you need in your beach cooler. For 2 people, 20 quarts; 3 people need 20 to 30 quarts; 4 people need 30 to 45 quarts; 5 people need 45 to 60 quarts; and for 6+ people, you’ll need 60+ quarts.

What’s better – a larger cooler or multiple coolers?

As previously mentioned, you’ll likely need a 60+ quart cooler if you have 6 or more people going to the beach with you. Even the best coolers at that size can be unwieldy and difficult to get from place to place.

If you only have a few people in your party, you’ll be fine with one large cooler. But, if you have a lot of people that will be heading to your beach event, you’ll likely be better off getting several smaller coolers to take with you.

What should I look for in a warranty?

Warranties are always a great idea. Some cooler companies actually give you a warranty right out of the gate without any extra cost. These warranties can last anywhere from 12 months to 5 years. Some brands even offer lifetime warranties (but they’ll cost more upfront).

Be sure that you understand what the warranty is going to include and how much is covered in it. Ask questions of the company if you need to do so.

How can I keep sand out of my cooler?

Whether you have a beach cooler with wheels or you’re carrying it with a strap, you can still get sand in it. One of the best ways to keep sand out of your cooler is to put it on a table or elevate it in some other manner so it isn’t in the sand to start with.

Another option is to have a bucket with water nearby. Then, before someone goes into the cooler, they can rinse their hand off in the water before they reach inside. It’s not a guarantee, but it’ll make sandy drinks or food much less likely.

Yeti Hopper Two 30 Portable Beach Cooler
Our pick for the best beach cooler is: Yeti Hopper Two 30 Portable Beach Cooler. This choice was made after spending 39 hours researching beach coolers.

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