Family picnics are a cherished tradition for loved ones to gather, share a meal, and create lasting memories. But to ensure a smooth and enjoyable outing, certain essentials are needed, and one of the most important among them is a cooler.
Coolers are especially crucial for family picnics. With more people, there’s a greater variety of food and drinks to keep fresh. From sandwiches to salads, from sodas to juices, a cooler can accommodate them all. It’s like having a portable refrigerator at your picnic spot.
A cooler adds convenience to your picnic. Many coolers include cup holders, bottle openers, and extra storage pockets, making your picnic experience more comfortable and hassle-free. They are also portable and easy to carry, allowing you to bring your picnic to any location, be it a park, a beach, or even your backyard.
So the next time you plan a family picnic, don’t forget to pack a cooler. It will improve your picnic experience and help create a memorable outing for your family.
13 Best Coolers For A Family Picnic in 2023
Add Maelstrom Soft Cooler Bag, Collapsible Soft-Sided Cooler
Editor’s Choice
The Maelstrom Soft Cooler Bag is a soft-sided, stylish, and highly functional cooler. It comes in a variety of colors, including grey, navy blue, black, and orange, allowing you to choose one that best suits your style.
- Brand: Maelstrom
- Color: 60 Can Gray
- Material: Polystyrene (PS)
- Package Information: Bag, Cans
- Capacity: 10.5 Gallons
- Item Dimensions (LxWxH): 16.54 x 12.99 x 11.02 inches
- Item Weight: 0.88 Pounds
- Special Feature: Insulated, Portable
- Included Components: Handle
- Model Name: Coolers
The cooler is available in three sizes, with the largest capable of holding up to 75 cans, making it perfect for family picnics.
Its features include an insulated, leakproof interior that keeps your food and drinks cold, and a lightweight, collapsible design for easy storage and transport. The cooler also has multiple pockets for additional storage and a convenient shoulder strap for easy carrying.
Given its robust construction and high-quality materials, the Maelstrom Soft Cooler Bag is designed to last.
Pros
- Extra-large capacity that can hold up to 60 cans plus 2-4 ice-packs
- 5 layer insulation design keeps food or drinks cold for up to 12 hours
- Durable with double-stitched carry options
- Double-decker unique design for easy storage and convenience
- Versatile and suitable for all outdoor activities
- Lightweight (only 1.8 lbs) for easy portability
- Comes with a top compartment for storing sandwiches, frozen food, fruits, and other essentials
- Can be folded flat and stowed easily in your trunk or under a car seat
- Eligible for return, refund, or replacement within 30 days of receipt
Cons
- The zipper for the main compartment can be temperamental and stiff
- After a few uses, the bag may leak
- Lacks side supports, which some users might prefer
Foundry by Fit+Fresh, 24-Can Soft Cooler Bag Insulated
Most Value Value For Money
The Foundry Soft Cooler Bag is designed with various features that make it a must-have for any family picnic. Available in a sleek steel color, this cooler bag is not just about functionality but also about aesthetics.
- Brand: Fit & Fresh
- Material: Polyester
- Color: Black
- Dimensions: 9.5 x 6 x 8 inches
- Weight: 0.7 Pounds
- Insulation: Yes, fully insulated
- Leak-Proof: Yes
- Removable Ice Pack: Yes
- BPA-Free: Yes
- Adjustable Strap: Yes
- Extra Storage: Yes, front zippered pocket and side mesh pocket
This cooler stands out in the market with its unique selling proposition – a perfect blend of practicality and style. The cooler bag is not just another utility item; it’s a statement of lifestyle, a testament to the joy of outdoor family gatherings and the love for fresh, cool beverages.
It can hold up to 24 cans, making it ideal for a family outing. The bag is insulated, ensuring your drinks stay cool for longer. It also features a leak-proof design, so you don’t have to worry about any spillage. The cooler bag is soft-sided, making it easy to carry around, and comes with a portable design that adds to its convenience.
One of the unique aspects of this cooler is its removable hard plastic liner. This liner gives the bag a sturdy shape and makes it easy to clean. The bag also features a front pocket for additional storage and a top door design for easy access to your cold drinks.
Pros
- Fully insulated to keep food fresh
- Leak-proof lining to prevent spills
- Comes with a removable ice pack
- BPA-free for safety
- Adjustable strap for easy carrying
- Extra storage with a front zippered pocket and side mesh pocket
Cons
- Some users may find it small for their needs
- The ice pack may not keep food cold for a very long time
- The strap may not be durable enough for heavy items
CleverMade Collapsible Insulated Cooler Bag
The CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag is available in various colors, including Heathered Charcoal/Black, Light Grey/Denim, and Heather Olive/Navy, catering to different aesthetic preferences.
- Brand: CleverMade
- Color: Heathered Charcoal / Black
- Material: Polyester
- Package Information: Bag, Bottle
- Capacity: 8 Gallons
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 18.25 x 12.25 x 11.5 inches
- Item Weight: 2 Pounds
- Special Feature: Insulated, Portable
- Included Components: Collapsible Cooler
- Model Name: Collapsible Cooler
The cooler bag is not just about looks but also about performance. It can hold up to 50 cans, making it perfect for storing various beverages or food items.
The bag’s dimensions are 18.25 x 12.25 x 11.5 inches, providing ample space without being too bulky. The bag’s insulated interior ensures that your food and drinks stay cool, while the leak-proof design prevents any spillage.
The CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag is not just a one-time-use cooler. Its sturdy construction ensures that it can be used repeatedly for picnics, camping trips, and even grocery shopping.
The bag’s collapsible design makes it easy to store when not in use, saving you space. The cooler bag’s durability and functionality make it a worthwhile investment for any family that enjoys outdoor activities.
Pros
- Structured design with patented SnapHinge
- Collapsible for easy storage
- Versatile for various uses (beach, work lunch, grocery shopping, road trips)
- Integrated bottle opener and additional storage pouch
- Can carry up to 55 lbs and hold up to 50 cans
- Lightweight (2.25 lbs when empty)
Cons
- May not keep items cold for extended periods
- Size may not be sufficient for larger outings
- Material may not be as durable as hard-sided coolers
- Potential for leaks if not properly sealed
Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze Cooler – 16 Can Zipperless Hardbody Cooler
The Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze Cooler is a 16-can capacity cooler, perfect for a family picnic. It comes in a variety of colors, including blue, white, and moss, allowing you to choose one that best suits your style. The cooler is designed with a HardBody liner with SmartShelf.
- Material: Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
- Item Dimensions: 9.75 x 8 x 9.5 inches
- Item Weight: 1.61 Pounds
- Special Feature: Insulated
- Included Components: Hardbody Zipperless Cooler
- Chamber Depth: 4.75 Inches
- Insulation: Deep Freeze high performance insulation with radiant heat barrier
- Lid: Patented, “flip open” Zipperless lid
- Liner: FDA compliant HardBody liner with removable SmartShelf
- Front Pocket: Insulated
- Interior Lining: Ultra Safe leak proof, easy clean interior lining
- Exterior: Water and stain repellent, wipe clean exterior
- Shoulder Strap: Adjustable Backsaver shoulder strap with anti-slip shoulder pad
The SmartShelf allows you to keep hard stuff like drinks separate from soft stuff, so sandwiches and other soft foods don’t get crushed. If you want to use the entire liner, the SmartShelf easily removes to provide more space.
The cooler’s exterior is constructed of Rhino-Tech water and stain-resistant material, so it’s easy to clean and will look great for years to come.
The interior features Deep Freeze high-performance insulation with radiant heat barrier and a removable HardBody liner with SmartShelf. The insulation and the radiant heat barrier combine to block heat from the outside and the cold from the inside.
Pros
- High performance insulation with radiant heat barrier reflects heat rather than absorbing it, keeping items cool for longer.
- Zipperless lid allows for quick access to food and drinks.
- Features an FDA compliant HardBody liner with a removable SmartShelf, allowing for organization and preventing soft items from being crushed.
- Leak proof and easy to clean interior lining.
- Adjustable shoulder strap with anti-slip shoulder pad makes it easier to carry.
- Water and stain repellent exterior that is easy to clean.
- Available in different sizes to suit various needs.
Cons
- Size might be smaller than expected due to the extra insulation.
- The front pocket might be tight and difficult to access.
- The strap might be too long and difficult to shorten.
- Ice might melt within a few hours, and water can spill out of the lid easily.
- The cooler might be front heavy when carried using the strap.
Add AO Coolers Carbon Soft Cooler with High-Density Insulation
The AO Coolers Carbon Soft Cooler offers a range of features that cater to different needs. Available in various sizes, including 12, 24, 36, and 48-can options, it provides ample space to store your picnic essentials.
- Style: Available in 12, 24, 36, and 48-can options
- Color: Black
- Material: Other (specific material not specified)
- Package Information: Bag
- Item Dimensions: 21 x 10 x 12 inches
- Item Weight: 3.8 Pounds
- Special Feature: Portable
- Chamber Depth: 21 Inches
The cooler comes in various colors, allowing you to choose one that best suits your style. Its high-density insulation can keep ice intact for 24 hours at a temperature of up to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
This soft-sided cooler also has a removable shoulder strap, making it easy to carry around. Furthermore, it features a leak-proof liner that is perfect for holding ice and doubles as a dry box when necessary.
Pros
- High-density insulation that keeps items cold for longer
- Leak-proof liner
- Portable with a removable shoulder strap
- Versatile for various outdoor activities
- Features a side pocket for dry items
Cons
- Based on its external dimensions, the cooler’s capacity might be smaller than expected.
- The cooler is relatively expensive compared to other soft-sided coolers.
ONIVA – a Picnic Time brand Buccaneer Portable Charcoal Grill & Cooler Tote
The Buccaneer Portable Charcoal Grill & Cooler Tote is a compact and versatile cooler designed with the needs of outdoor enthusiasts in mind. Available in a sleek black color with gray accents, it is not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional.
- Brand: PICNIC TIME
- Product Dimensions: 14″D x 20″W x 12″H
- Special Feature: Waterproof
- Color: Grey
- Fuel Type: Charcoal
- Included Components:
- 1 Combination Storage Bag and Cooler Tote (20″x 13.5″ x 11″)
- 1 Portable Charcoal BBQ Grill with Lid (16.7″L X 10.8″W X 5.1″H)
- 1 Drawstring Bag to Hold the Grill (17″ x 11″)
- 1 Large Spatula Featuring A Built-In Bottle Opener (16.5″)
- 1 Pair Of Tongs (16.5″)
- 1 BBQ Fork (16.5″)
- Assembly Required: No
- Material: Polyester
- Handle Material: PVC, Stainless Steel
- Item Weight: 13.6 Pounds
- Frame Material: Stainless Steel
- Dishwasher Compatible: No
- Batteries Required: No
The grill comes with a large grilling surface, providing ample space to cook a variety of foods. On the other hand, the cooler tote is spacious enough to hold up to 24 12-oz cans, ensuring your beverages stay cold and refreshing.
The cooler also includes a BBQ set with three stainless steel tools: a large spatula with a built-in bottle opener, a grill brush, and tongs.
All these features are packed into a cooler with a compact size, making it easy to carry and perfect for a family picnic.
Pros
- Portable and convenient for tailgating, camping, and outdoor activities
- Comes with a waterproof cooler that can hold up to 24 standard size beverage cans
- Includes a charcoal BBQ grill and BBQ tools
- Made of durable materials (Polyester, PVC, Stainless Steel)
- Has a waterproof base, large zippered exterior pockets, padded carry handles, and a stretch cargo cord for additional storage
- The BBQ tools have non-slip thumb grips for easy handling
Cons
- No mention of a warranty
- Might be a bit heavy to carry around (13.6 pounds)
- Assembly might be required despite the product description stating otherwise
- Not dishwasher safe
- The cooler is not insulated
Add CleverMade Pacifica Cooler Bag; Soft-Sided Insulated
The Pacifica Cooler Bag is a versatile cooler that offers a range of features. Available in a variety of colors, including Ocean and Midnight, it caters to different aesthetic preferences. The bag is designed to hold up to 50 cans, making it perfect for family outings.
- Brand: CleverMade
- Color: Grey/Blue
- Material: Polyester
- Package Information: Bag, Bottle
- Capacity: 20 Liters
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 15.5 x 12 x 10 inches
- Item Weight: 1.75 Pounds
- Special Feature: Insulated, Portable
- Included Components: Cooler
- Model Name: CleverMade Cooler
Its soft-sided insulated design ensures that your food and beverages stay cool for hours. The bag is also collapsible, making it easy to store when not in use. Additionally, it comes with a bottle opener and a shoulder strap for added convenience.
Despite its soft-sided design, the Pacifica Cooler Bag is durable and built to last. With proper care, this cooler can serve your family’s picnic needs for several years. Its unique design and functionality make it an excellent investment for those who love outdoor activities.
Pros
- Portable: The cooler is collapsible and folds down to under 3 inches when not in use, making it great for travel, picnics, sports events, concerts, camping, hiking, beach parties, and other outdoor events.
- Capacity: It can carry 30 cans of beverages plus ice. It has a total weight capacity of 35 lbs.
- Insulation: The cooler has a leak-proof insulation liner and strong polyester outer material, making it ideal for keeping wine, beer, food, and groceries cool for hours.
- Convenience: It features a padded adjustable shoulder strap and durable side handles for easy carrying. There’s also an integrated bottle opener on the handle for easy access.
Cons
- Size: While the collapsible design is a plus for storage and travel, it may not be large enough for some users who need to carry more items.
- Material: The cooler is made of polyester, which while durable, may not be as robust or long-lasting as some other materials used in coolers.
- Insulation: While the cooler is insulated, the duration for which it can keep items cool may vary depending on external conditions.
Add Keter Ice Cube Beer and Wine Cooler Table
The Keter Ice Cube Cooler Table is designed with a sleek and modern aesthetic that blends seamlessly with any outdoor décor. It is available in two colors, brown and graphite, allowing you to choose the one that best matches your style.
- Dimensions: 16.9 in. L x 16.9 in. W x 16.9 in. H
- Color: Brown
- Table Design: End Table
- Special Feature: Multifunction
- Shape: Square
- Top Material Type: Rattan, Resin
- Frame Material: Resin
- Assembly Required: No
- Cooler Capacity: 10.5 gallons
- Weight Capacity: 250 lbs
- Item Weight: 10.8 pounds
The cooler measures 16.9 inches in length, width, and height, making it compact yet spacious enough to hold your favorite beverages. It has a substantial capacity, ensuring that your drinks stay cool throughout your picnic.
One of the standout features of this cooler is its robust construction. Made from durable and weather-resistant resin, it can withstand the elements, ensuring long-term use.
The lid of the cooler is designed to be used as a table when closed, providing a convenient surface for placing your drinks or snacks. Despite its sturdy build, the cooler table is lightweight and easy to carry, making it perfect for picnics.
Pros
- Versatile use as a patio coffee table, bar table, and drink cooler
- Durable and strong due to weather-resistant polypropylene construction
- Portable due to its lightweight build and handgrips
- Provides comfortable bench seating
- Easy to clean
- No assembly required
- Hidden cooler with 10.5-gallon drink storage capacity
- Can handle up to forty 12 oz. cans with ice
- Made out of all weather-resistant resin with an appealing rattan-look texture
Cons
- No drain for melting ice
- Ice may not stay cold for very long
- One user reported receiving a damaged unit
PICNIC TIME NCAA Unisex-Adult NCAA 64 Can Collapsible Cooler
The NCAA 64 Can Collapsible Cooler is a marvel of design and functionality. Available in a variety of colors, it allows users to show their team spirit with the NCAA team logo printed on it.
- Color: Heathered Gray
- Material: Polyester
- Package Information: Bag, Can, Cans
- Item Dimensions (LxWxH): 22 x 10.5 x 11.5 inches
- Item Weight: 2.65 Pounds
- Special Feature: Insulated
- Included Components: 1 Collapsible Cooler (22″ x 10.5″ x 11.5″)
- Team Name: Florida Gators
The cooler measures 22 x 10.5 x 11.5 inches, providing ample space to store up to 64 cans.
It’s not just about the size; the cooler is also equipped with an insulated, leak-proof liner that ensures your beverages stay cold for a longer duration. The cooler’s collapsibility is another feature that users appreciate, as it allows for easy storage when not in use.
The durability of the NCAA 64 Can Collapsible Cooler is another aspect that makes it a worthy investment.
Pros
- Large Capacity: The cooler has a large capacity and can hold up to 64 cans.
- Insulated and Water-Resistant: The cooler is insulated and water-resistant, which helps to keep the beverages cool and prevents any leakage.
- Collapsible: The cooler can be easily collapsed after use, making it easy to store and transport.
- Versatile: The cooler is versatile and can be used for various occasions like tailgating, camping, or as a snack bag.
- Lifetime Guarantee: The product comes with a lifetime guarantee, ensuring its quality and durability.
Cons
- Size: The cooler is quite large, which might not be suitable for small outings or picnics.
- Weight: The cooler weighs 2.65 pounds, which might be heavy to carry when it’s full.
- Material: The cooler is made of polyester, which might not be as durable as other materials like hard plastic.
- Availability: As per the listing, only 1 unit is left in stock, which might limit the purchase options for the customers.
DEROOS 18/27/35Cans 72-Hours Soft Cooler Bag
The DEROOS Soft Cooler Bag is designed with a sleek and modern aesthetic that blends seamlessly with any outdoor setting. It is available in a variety of sizes, including 18, 27, and 35 cans, allowing you to choose the one that best matches your needs.
- Brand: DEROOS
- Color: GREY-14L
- Material: Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)
- Package Information: Bag
- Capacity: 14 Liters
- Special Feature: Insulated
- Included Components: 1*COOLER
- Model Name: DR_B111
- Insulation Material: tpu
- Item Package Dimensions L x W x H: 17.2 x 12.99 x 12.91 inches
- Package Weight: 2.28 Kilograms
- Warranty Description: 2-year manufacturer warranty
- Suggested Users: unisex-adult
The cooler measures 15.7 x 11.8 x 13.8 inches, providing ample space to store your favorite beverages. It’s not just about the size; the cooler is also equipped with an insulated, leak-proof liner that ensures your beverages stay cold for up to 72 hours.
Pros
- Advanced Cooling Performance: The cooler has a double-side 7 layered insulation system, ensuring a constant temperature without electricity for 72 hours.
- Fully Airtight Design: The cooler features a waterproof zipper that meets the international IP7 standard.
- Large Capacity: The cooler can hold up to 27 cans of pop-up drinks and weighs only 3.7 lbs.
- Go-Anywhere Portability: The cooler has a removable shoulder strap and side hand strap for easy carrying.
Cons
- Size: Some customers found the cooler to be too large for their needs.
- Zipper: Some customers reported issues with the zipper being stuck or difficult to open.
- Cooling Time: Despite the claim of 72 hours of cooling, some customers reported that it only delivers around 40% of its promised cool time.
Add AO Coolers Original Soft Cooler with High-Density Insulation
The AO Coolers Original Soft Cooler is available in various colors, including Tan, Silver, and Black/Charcoal, giving you the freedom to choose one that best suits your style.
- Brand: AO Coolers
- Color: Charcoal
- Capacity: 11 Liters
- Item Dimensions: 14 x 7 x 12 inches
- Item Weight: 2 Pounds
It comes in different sizes, allowing you to select the one that fits your family’s needs. The cooler’s capacity is impressive, with the ability to hold a substantial amount of food and drinks. It also features a side pocket for dry storage, adding to its functionality.
The cooler’s design is not just about aesthetics; it’s about providing the best cooling solution. The high-density insulation works to keep your food and drinks cold for a long time.
Pros
- High-density insulation, twice the insulation of other soft-sided coolers
- Leak-proof liner
- Portable with removable shoulder strap
- Perfect for various activities like boating, fishing, hunting, parties, sporting events, and picnics
- Features a side pocket for dry items
- Positive customer reviews highlighting its durability and excellent insulation
Cons
- Material type is not specified
- Size may be larger than expected for some users
ZHUHW Folding Picnic Pouch Basket Camping Cooler Bag
The ZHUHW Folding Picnic Pouch Basket, Camping Cooler Bag is sleek black, adding a touch of elegance to your picnic setup.
- Color: Black
- Material: Cation
- Size: Large, 42 x 23 x 23 cm / 16.53 x 9.05 x 9.05 inches
- Weight: 642g
The bag is made of cationic material, known for its durability and resistance to wear and tear. It measures 42x23x23cm, providing ample space to store plenty of food and other essentials for your family picnic.
One of the unique features of this cooler bag is its large capacity. It can store plenty of food and other items, making it perfect for family picnics, beach outings, barbecues, camping, and other outdoor events.
The bag is also insulated, ensuring your food and drinks stay fresh and cool throughout your outdoor adventure. It’s not just limited to outdoor use; it can also be used for home shopping, traveling, and other purposes.
Pros
- Large capacity for storing food and other items
- Versatile use (picnics, shopping, park play, travel)
- Great for outdoor events (beach, picnics, barbecue camping, vacations)
- Can be used for home shopping, traveling, picnic, etc.
- Ideal for keeping food in or out of the refrigerator
Cons
- High price point may not be affordable for all
- Actual color of the item might be slightly different from the color shown in the pictures
- Measurement deviations due to manual measurement
- No customer reviews to verify product quality
Caterpillar Can Cooler
The Caterpillar Can Cooler is designed with a 600D Polyester fabric, ensuring high durability and reliability. It comes in a sleek Grey/Black color, adding a touch of elegance to your outdoor activities.
- Color: Grey/Black
- Material: Polyester
- Item Dimensions: 12.99 x 9.06 x 11.81 inches
- Model Name: Can Cooler
- Use: Multipurpose – Can be used as a daily lunch bag or drinks cooler
- Features:
- Adjustable shoulder strap
- Foil interior liner
- Side mesh pockets with front zippered pocket
- Top lid with cup holder and quick hatch
- Webbing loops on the front for attachment of pouch and accessories
- Waterproof: Yes – Equipped with airtight and leakproof zipper
The cooler is of a convenient size, with measurements of 13 x 9 x 12 inches, providing ample space for your food and drinks. It features an adjustable shoulder strap for easy carrying, side mesh pockets, a front zippered pocket, and webbing loops for attachment of pouches and accessories. The top lid comes with a cup holder and a quick hatch for easy access.
One of the unique features of this cooler is its foil interior liner, which ensures your food and drinks stay cool for a long duration.
Pros
- Multipurpose use – Can be used as a daily lunch bag or drinks cooler
- Durable – Made from 600D Polyester fabric
- Features like adjustable shoulder strap, foil interior liner, side mesh pockets with front zippered pocket, top lid with cup holder and quick hatch, and webbing loops on the front for attachment of pouch and accessories
- Leak-proof and waterproof
- High-density and waterproof, food-grade lining prevent food spoilage
- Positive customer reviews
Cons
- The top two slots are not deep enough to hold a water bottle while walking
- Size might be too big for some users
Conclusion
The joy of sharing good food and refreshing drinks in the great outdoors is at the heart of every memorable family picnic. A cooler is the key to maintaining the freshness and quality of these picnic essentials.
A cooler is not just a storage box; it’s a vital component that enhances the overall picnic experience. It ensures that your food remains fresh, your drinks stay chilled, and your ice cream doesn’t melt even under the summer sun.
For a family picnic, a cooler is even more essential. It caters to family members’ diverse food and drink preferences, keeping everything from sandwiches to salads and sodas to juices fresh and enjoyable. It’s like having a portable refrigerator to carry to your picnic spot.
