10 Best Coolers That Keep Ice For Days 2025 in the United States

The YETI Tundra 65 Cooler in Big Sky Blue stands out in the 'coolers that keep ice for days' category. Its most notable strength is its exceptional insulation, featuring up to 3 inches of PermaFrost Polyurethane Foam, which ensures ice remains solid for extended periods. The extra-thick FatWall design, certified bear-resistant, further enhances its ability to maintain cold temperatures. Additionally, the cooler is constructed with Rotomolded Polyethylene, making it incredibly durable and virtually indestructible, suitable for rugged outdoor adventures such as camping, fishing, and hiking, as well as backyard barbecues.

The T-Rex Lid Latches made of heavy-duty rubber prevent breakage, adding to the cooler’s reliability. The included dry goods basket is a handy feature for organizing contents and keeping certain items dry. The Tundra 65 offers a substantial 65-quart capacity, making it spacious enough for various uses, from storing fish to keeping food and drinks cold for a large group. However, this capacity comes with a tradeoff in weight; at 29 pounds when empty, it can be a bit cumbersome to transport, especially when filled.

Its portability is slightly mitigated by its built-in non-slip, leak-proof features and reinforced lock and drain hole, which add to its convenience and user-friendliness. The drainage system is efficient, allowing for easy cleaning and water removal. One potential drawback is its higher price point, which may not be accessible for all budgets. Nevertheless, for those who need a robust and high-performing cooler that can withstand the elements and keep ice for days, the YETI Tundra 65 is a top contender. It is best suited for outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize durability and long-lasting ice retention.

The YETI Roadie 15 is a compact and sturdy cooler designed for users who need a portable option without sacrificing ice retention. Its polyurethane foam insulation and thick polyethylene walls help keep ice cold for an extended time, making it reliable for day trips or short outings. The cooler fits up to 22 cans or 16 pounds of ice, including most standard wine and 2-liter soda bottles, which is quite efficient given its small size.

Portability is a key strength; the DoubleDuty shoulder strap and LipGrip handles make carrying comfortable and versatile, while the BearFoot non-slip feet prevent unwanted sliding on surfaces like boat decks or car seats. The material and build quality contribute to its durability, so it's well-suited for rough outdoor use. The cooler's compact size means it is ideal for individuals or small groups but may not be suitable for longer trips or larger groups needing more storage space.

This cooler is a tough, easy-to-carry option that excels at keeping ice for a full day. However, those who need bigger capacity or quicker drainage options might find it limiting.

The Ninja FrostVault 45QT Cooler is a solid choice for keeping ice cold for multiple days. Its standout feature is the FrostVault Technology, which keeps ice frozen while separating dry food to maintain freshness and safety. With up to 3 inches of insulation, it provides strong ice retention, making it suitable for beach trips, camping, or picnics. The 45-quart size can hold up to 68 cans without ice or 40 cans with ice, offering good capacity for group outings.

Durability is well covered with a hard plastic shell and puncture-resistant, all-terrain wheels that facilitate movement across various surfaces. The reinforced telescoping handle adds comfort when hauling. Portability is enhanced by the wheels, though the cooler weighs about 30 pounds empty, which is on the heavier side. The design promotes smarter packing by including a dry storage drawer, so food stays separate from ice and doesn’t get soggy. This feature also reduces the need to dig through ice to retrieve items. While the product manual suggests hand washing, the cooler is relatively low maintenance.

This cooler suits those who prioritize ice retention, durability, and ease of movement over an ultra-lightweight design. It works particularly well for outdoor adventures where keeping food dry and cold is important, though those seeking a lighter option or a more explicit drainage system might want to consider alternatives.