Picture this: It’s a super hot summer day, and you’re picnicking with your family. The sun is beating down, and you only want a nice, cold drink.
But oh no! The drinks you brought are now as warm as bath water. This is where a small cooler saves the day. It’s small enough to fit in your car but powerful enough to keep your drinks cold for a long time.
If you’re just going out for the day, you might want a cooler that’s light and easy to carry. But if you’re going camping for a few days, you might need a cooler that can keep things cold for a long time and hold more stuff.
Also, if you’re going to be carrying the cooler a lot, you might want one with comfy handles or shoulder straps.
Small coolers are more than just portable fridges. They’re a smart solution to a problem many people have. They help us beat the heat, keep our food and drinks fresh and make sure our outdoor fun isn’t ruined by warm soda or bad sandwiches.
So, whether you love picnics, are a camping fan, or just like a cold drink on a hot day, small coolers are something you should know about. They’re small, easy to carry, and really good at their job. They’re the perfect buddies for your outdoor fun.
15 Best Small Coolers
Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze Cooler
Editor’s Choice
The Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze Cooler is available in a 16-can capacity model and a 30-can capacity model. Both models come in various vibrant colors, including Moss, Navy, and Pine, allowing customers to choose according to their preferences.
- Material: Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
- Color: Moss, Navy, Process Blue, Blue Lagoon, Pine, Sharkskin Gray
- 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 cooler boasts of Deep Freeze high-performance insulation with a radiant heat barrier and a triple-layer ColdBlock base to ensure your beverages stay chilled for longer periods.
The cooler also features a unique Zipperless lid that provides quick access to items. The interior includes a HardBody liner with SmartShelf. The SmartShelf allows you to separate soft stuff like sandwiches from hard stuff like beverages, preventing the former from being crushed. However, if you need one large cooler space, the SmartShelf can be easily removed.
The cooler’s exterior is designed with a Rhino-Tech water and stain-resistant, wipe-clean exterior, ensuring the cooler is easy to maintain and durable. The cooler also comes with an adjustable Backsaver® shoulder strap that centers load weight to reduce muscle stress.
Pros
- High-performance insulation with radiant heat barrier reflects heat rather than absorbing it, keeping contents cooler for longer
- Zipperless lid allows for quick access to food and drinks
- Features a HardBody liner with removable SmartShelf for organization
- Leak-proof and easy-to-clean interior lining
- Adjustable shoulder strap with anti-slip shoulder pad for easier carrying
- Water and stain repellent, easy-to-clean exterior
- Available in multiple sizes (9 Can, 16 Can, 30 Can, 48 Can) and colors
Cons
- Size might be larger than expected for some users
- The depth of the removable tray might require removal for larger items
- Moisture might get into the front zipper pocket
Caterpillar Can Cooler
Super Tough
The Caterpillar Can Cooler is designed with a grey/black color scheme, giving it a sleek and modern look. It’s made from 600D Polyester fabric, ensuring high durability and reliability. The cooler bag is not just about aesthetics and durability; it’s packed with features that make it a practical choice.
- Color: Grey/Black
- Material: Polyester
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 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 front for attachment of pouch and accessories
- Waterproof: Yes – Equipped with airtight and leakproof zipper
It comes with an adjustable shoulder strap for easy carrying, a foil interior liner for optimum insulation, side mesh pockets, a front zippered pocket, and a top lid with a cup holder and quick hatch.
The cooler also has webbing loops on the front for attachment of pouches and accessories. The bag measures 13 x 9 x 12 inches, providing ample space for your food and drinks.
The Caterpillar Can Cooler is leak-proof and waterproof, thanks to its airtight and leakproof zipper. The high-density, food-grade lining prevents food spoilage, ensuring your food and drinks stay fresh.
Even if you invert the cooler, no water seeps out, a testament to its superior design and construction.
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 prevents food spoilage
Cons
- The top two slots are not deep enough to hold a water bottle while walking
- Size might be too big for some users
Coleman Steel-Belted Cooler
Most Durable
The Coleman Steel-Belted Cooler comes in three different colors: red, green, and silver, allowing you to choose one that best suits your style.
- Dimensions: 25.1 x 17.5 x 17.2 inches
- Weight: 18.98 pounds
- Capacity: 54 quarts
- Ice Retention: Up to 4 days
- Available Colors: Red, Green, Silver
It has a capacity of 54 quarts, which is enough to hold about 85 cans, making it perfect for family outings or group trips. The cooler’s insulation offers 4-day ice retention in temperatures as high as 90°F, ensuring your food and drinks stay chilled throughout your trip.
The Coleman Steel-Belted Cooler is not just about keeping your items cold; it’s also about convenience. It features a leak-resistant drain that allows you to remove water without tilting the cooler. The comfort-grip steel handles make it easy to carry, and the rust-resistant hardware ensures longevity.
Pros
- Durable steel construction
- Excellent ice retention
- Leak-resistant drain
- Comfort-grip steel handles
- Rust-resistant hardware
Cons
- Heavier than plastic coolers
- May arrive with minor dents due to shipping
CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag with Shoulder Strap
The CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag is packed with features designed to enhance its usability and functionality. Available in a variety of colors, it caters to a wide range of personal 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 bag comes in two sizes, 30-can and 50-can, allowing users to choose based on their capacity needs. The bag is insulated to keep your beverages and snacks cool, making it perfect for picnics, road trips, or any outdoor activities. It also includes a shoulder strap for easy transportation and a bottle opener for added convenience.
Despite its lightweight and collapsible design, the CleverMade Cooler Bag is built to last. Made from durable and recycled materials, it can withstand regular use and harsh outdoor conditions. While the exact lifespan of the cooler will depend on how it’s used and maintained, customers can expect it to serve its purpose for several years without any significant wear and tear.
Pros
- Structured and opens/closes easily due to the built-in patented SnapHinge
- Collapsible for easy storage
- Versatile use for the beach, work lunch, grocery shopping, and road trips
- Integrated bottle opener and extra storage pouch
- Can carry up to 55 lbs. and has room for 50 cans
Cons
- Some users might find it a bit bulky for small trips
- The material might not be as durable as hard-sided coolers
- Might not keep items as cold as traditional coolers for extended periods
- Not specified if it’s waterproof
ebags Lunch Bag Flight Crew Cooler
The eBags Lunch Bag Flight Crew Cooler is designed with a variety of features to cater to your needs. It comes in two colors: Brushed Indigo and Sinful Red, allowing you to choose based on your preference. The bag is spacious, with a rectangular shape that makes it easy to carry. It has a sturdy construction with heavy-duty zippers for durability.
- Brand: eBags
- cooler: Lunch Bag Flight Crew Cooler
- Colors: Brushed Indigo, Sinful Red
- Material: Thick vinyl interior lining
- Features: Heavy-duty zippers, deep side mesh pockets, top and front compartments
The eBags Lunch Bag Flight Crew Cooler can hold breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and drinks, making it an ideal choice for those with variable work hours or those who prefer to pack their meals for the day.
The bag’s interior is lined with a thick vinyl material, ensuring your meals stay fresh and cool. The side mesh pockets are deep enough to hold tall containers securely, preventing them from tipping or falling out. The top compartment provides additional space for fruit, snacks, or personal items, while the front compartment offers organization possibilities.
Pros
- Spacious and versatile
- Durable construction
- High-quality materials
- Multiple compartments for organization
- Deep side pockets for secure storage
Cons
- Lack of a hard plastic removable liner for spill management
- Carrying handles are attached to the zip-open lid, requiring the lid to be zipped back on for carrying
Hydro Flask 12L Carry Out Soft Cooler
The Hydro Flask 12L Carry Out Soft Cooler is a versatile cooler designed for those constantly moving. It comes in a stylish Baltic color, adding a touch of elegance to your outdoor gear.
- Material: Polyester
- Package Information: Bag
- Capacity: 12 Liters
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 8.7 x 11.5 x 11.2 inches
- Item Weight: 1.77 Pounds
- Special Feature: Insulated, Lightweight
- Included Components: Cooler
The cooler is compact yet spacious, with a capacity of 12 liters, making it perfect for carrying your favorite beverages and snacks. Its insulated interior keeps your food and drinks cold for hours. The cooler is also equipped with a durable, water-resistant fabric exterior that can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
The Hydro Flask 12L Carry Out Soft Cooler is not just about functionality but also longevity. This cooler is built to last with its robust construction and high-quality materials. It can withstand frequent use and harsh outdoor conditions, ensuring that it serves its purpose for a long time.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable
- Insulated, keeping contents chilled for up to 24 hours
- Large, accessible opening for easy loading, unloading, and cleaning
- BPA-free liner with welded seams for spill containment
- Can fit 20 cans without ice
- Comes with a removable cross-body strap
- Exterior stash pocket for extra storage
- Webbing loops for attaching Dry Storage accessories
Cons
- May not be suitable for long-term cooling needs
- Limited accessory pockets
- Shoulder strap is not removable
- Size may be too large for everyday lunch box use
Maelstrom Soft Cooler Bag, Collapsible Soft Sided Cooler, 30/60/75 Cans
The Maelstrom Soft Cooler Bag is a versatile cooler that comes in various colors, including gray, navy blue, black, and orange. It’s available in different sizes, each with a specific can capacity. The largest size can hold up to 75 cans, making it perfect for group outings.
- Brand: Maelstrom
- Color: 60 Can Gray
- Material:
- Exterior: Rip-stop 600D Oxford materials, waterproof PVC
- Interior: Food-grade PEVA materials
- 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 bag is designed with multiple compartments for organized storage, and it’s insulated to keep your beverages and food items cool for an extended period. The bag’s exterior is made of durable material that can withstand the rigors of outdoor use, and it features a shoulder strap for easy carrying.
Pros
- Extra-large capacity, can hold up to 60 cans plus 2-4 ice-packs
- Lightweight, only 1.8 lbs
- 5 layer insulation design for long-lasting coldness
- Durable with double-stitched carry options
- Unique double-decker design for additional storage
- Versatile for all outdoor activities and grocery transportation
Cons
- The cooler bag may lack side supports compared to other models
Kelty Folding Cooler
The Kelty Folding Cooler is available in two sizes, 24-can and 48-can, catering to different user needs. It comes with a hard shell and a soft shell, providing a balance between durability and flexibility. The cooler also includes a removable liner for easy cleaning.
- Brand: Kelty
- Color: Dull Gold / Deep Teal
- Material:
- Rugged 600D Exterior Shell
- Waterproof Removable Liner
- Polyester Webbing and Straps
- Capacity: 48 Cans
- Item Dimensions: 18 x 14 x 12 inches
- Item Weight: Not specified
- Special Feature: Removable Liner
- Included Components:
- Kelty Folding Cooler 48 Can Capacity
- Kelty Limited Lifetime Warranty
- Insulation Material: PE Foam
- Additional Features:
- Collapsible
- Integrated Cup Holders
- Heavy Duty Handles
Its removable shoulder strap makes it easy to carry, even when it’s filled to capacity. The cooler’s ability to hold ice for over 30 hours in 80-degree temperatures makes it a reliable choice for keeping your beverages and food items cool during your outdoor adventures.
Pros
- Rugged 600D Exterior Shell and Waterproof Removable Liner for durability
- PE Foam insulation provides 36+ hours of ice retention
- Collapsible design for easy storage and transport
- Integrated cup holders and heavy-duty handles for convenience
- Large capacity that holds up to 48 cans
Cons
- The weight of the cooler is not specified
- Not specified if it’s bear-resistant
- The color might not be appealing to all users
Coleman Chiller Series 30qt Insulated Portable Cooler
The Coleman Chiller Series 30qt Insulated Portable Cooler is a versatile cooler, boasting a range of features designed to enhance user experience. Available in a sleek blue color, this cooler has a capacity of 30 quarts, making it spacious enough to hold your beverages and food items while being compact for easy portability.
- Brand: Coleman
- Color: Blue-Ocean
- Material: Plastic
- Package Information: Cans
- Capacity: 30 Quarts
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 12.25 x 18 x 15.63 inches
- Item Weight: 5.75 Pounds
The cooler’s heavy-duty handle ensures comfortable carrying, while the snap-lid design guarantees secure closure. However, it’s worth noting that the lid doesn’t stay open on its own, but this can be easily worked around by propping it open with the handle.
Pros
- Ice Retention: TempLock insulation keeps drinks ice cold.
- Portable: Large-grip bail handle makes the cooler easy to carry with one hand.
- Quick-Clean Top: Smoother surface wipes down easily.
- Capacity: Holds up to 25 cans with 15 lbs. of ice.
Cons
- The lid doesn’t stay open, which makes it annoying to load up.
- The lid does not stay open, which can make loading and unloading a bit challenging.
- Requires careful handling to avoid damaging the insulation.
RovR RollR 80 Cooler Desert
The RovR RollR 80 Cooler is designed with roto-molded plastic and high-density polyurethane foam for insulation. It boasts a capacity of 80 quarts, which is more than enough to store all your beverages and snacks for a beach day. The cooler’s dimensions are 29 x 25 x 23 inches, and it weighs 51 pounds. It’s portable and comes with a BullsEye Latch for secure closure.
- Brand: ROVR PRODUCTS EST. 2016
- Color: Desert
- Material:
- Roto-molded plastic
- High-density polyurethane foam
- Capacity: 80 Quarts
- Item Dimensions: 29 x 25 x 23 inches
- Item Weight: 51 Pounds
- Special Feature: Portable
- Insulation Material: Polyurethane
- Additional Features:
- BullsEye Latch
- 10 days of ice retention
- Bear-resistant design
The RovR RollR 80 Cooler is not just about keeping your drinks cold; it’s about making your outdoor experiences more convenient and enjoyable. With its all-terrain wheels, you can easily roll it over sand, rocks, and dirt. It’s designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures, and with proper care, it should last for many years.
Pros
- High-density polyurethane foam insulation provides 10 days of ice retention
- Roto-molded plastic body for durability
- Portable design with all-terrain rubber wheels for easy transport
- Bear-resistant design for added security in the outdoors
- Large capacity that holds a large amount of drinks
Cons
- The color might not be appealing to all users
- The weight of the cooler might be heavy for some users when fully loaded
Igloo Playmate Pal 7 Quart Personal Sized Cooler
The Igloo Playmate Pal 7 Quart Personal Sized Cooler is a compact, portable cooler designed to keep your food and drinks cold for extended periods.
- Brand: Igloo
- Color: Red
- Material: Plastic
- Capacity: 3.8 Liters
- Item Dimensions: 9.65 x 5.51 x 9.84 inches
- Item Weight: 0.66 Kilograms
- Special Feature: Cooling, Easy to Clean, Durable, Removable Cover
- Included Components: 4 Quart cooler
- Recommended Uses For Product: Lunch
- Additional Features: SELECT propellants that deliver consistent accuracy and performance
It comes in a variety of colors, including red and white, allowing you to choose one that best suits your style. The cooler is 11.75 inches long, 8.25 inches wide, and 12 inches high, making it the perfect size for personal use.
It has a capacity of 7 quarts, which is enough to hold nine cans or a mix of small food containers and beverages.
The cooler features a unique tent-top design, which is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional. The design includes a push-button lid design for easy one-handed operation, and the lid swings open to either side for easy access.
The Igloo Playmate Pal 7 Quart Personal Sized Cooler is built to last.
Pros
- Compact size for personal use
- Easy to clean and durable
- Removable cover for convenience
- Suitable for lunch
- SELECT propellants that deliver consistent accuracy and performance
Cons
- The capacity might be too small for some users’ needs
- Not specified if it’s bear-resistant
- The weight of the cooler is not specified
Pelican 95 Quart Elite Cooler
The Pelican 95 Quart Elite Cooler is a marvel of engineering, boasting a host of features that make it a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts. Available in a stylish tan color, this cooler is not just about looks; it’s about performance.
- Brand: Pelican
- Color: White
- Material: Blend
- Capacity: 95 Quarts
- Item Dimensions: 27.34 x 12 x 17.62 inches
- Item Weight: 51 Pounds
- Special Feature: Water-Resistant, Tie Down
- Included Components: Cooler
- Insulation Material: Polyurethane, Stainless Steel
- Additional Features:
- Molded handles
- 3 inch locking latches
- Reinforced lockable hasp
- Stainless steel bottle opener
- Anti-shear hinge system
- Molded tie-down slots
- Leakproof drain plug
With a 95-quart capacity, it provides ample space for all your cooling needs. The cooler is designed with a true-to-size interior, ensuring you get exactly what you see. It also features non-slip feet, making it perfect for use in a truck bed or any outdoor setting.
However, it’s important to note that due to its robust construction, the cooler is heavy and is not meant to be a “tote” style cooler. It is designed for stationary cooling of items.
Pros
- High ice retention: 2 inches of polyurethane insulation with a 360-degree freezer-grade gasket that delivers extreme ice retention for up to 10 days
- Durable with features like 3-inch locking latches, reinforced lockable hasp, and anti-shear hinge system
- Convenient with features like molded handles, stainless steel bottle opener, and molded tie-down slots
- Water-resistant and tie-down features for secure transport
- Large capacity that holds a large amount of drinks
Cons
- The color might not be appealing to all users
- The weight of the cooler might be heavy for some users when fully loaded
- The price might be high for some customers
Calcutta CCLBG2-20 Renegade Cooler
The Calcutta CCLBG2-20 Renegade Cooler is a 20-liter cooler that boasts of a Toughskin roto-molded construction. This design ensures that the interior remains ice-cold while the exterior stays dry, making it perfect for beach outings.
- list_of_features_or_specification
- Brand: Calcutta
- Color: Light Blue
- Material: Other
- Capacity: 20 Liters
- Item Dimensions: Not specified
- Item Weight: Not specified
- Special Feature: Non Slip
- Included Components: Calcutta CCLBG2-20 Renegade Cooler 20 Liter Light Blue w/LED Drain
- Recommended Uses For Product: Camping
- Additional Features:
- Toughskin roto-molded construction
- Anchorlok secure rubber latch
- Gurad rubber
- Non-slip, non-marking feet
- Drain features a built-in 100 lumen LED light
- Freezseal industrial-grade, freezer-style lid seal
The cooler features an Anchorlok secure rubber latch for easy closing, and its Gurad rubber feet are non-slip and non-marking, ensuring stability even on sandy beach surfaces. The cooler’s Freezseal industrial-grade, freezer-style lid seal keeps ice for days, ensuring your drinks and food stay chilled throughout your beach day.
The Renegade Cooler is not just functional; it’s also stylish. Its light blue color gives it a fresh and cool look, perfect for the beach setting. The cooler’s size is ideal for personal use or a small group, and its non-slip feature ensures that it stays put even on a moving boat or a windy beach.
Pros
- Toughskin roto-molded construction for durability
- Anchorlok secure rubber latch for easy closing
- Non-slip, non-marking feet for stability
- Drain features a built-in 100 lumen LED light for visibility
- Freezseal industrial-grade, freezer-style lid seal keeps ice for days
Cons
- The weight of the cooler is not specified
- Not specified if it’s bear-resistant
- The color might not be appealing to all users
Igloo Limited Edition 7 Qt Playmate Lunch Box Cooler
The Igloo Limited Edition Disney Decorated Playmate Lunch Box is available in three different designs: Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, and Daisy Duck. Each design is vibrant and eye-catching, perfect for Disney enthusiasts of all ages.
- list_of_features_or_specification
- Brand: Igloo
- Color: Minnie Mouse
- Material: Plastic
- Capacity: 7 Quarts
- Item Dimensions: 11.75 x 8.25 x 12 inches
- Item Weight: 1.54 Pounds
- Special Feature: Portable
- Included Components: Cooler
- Recommended Uses For Product: Lunch
- Additional Features:
- Push-button lid design
- Lid swings open to either side
- Secure lid helps prevent spills
The lunch box is a 7-quart cooler, making it an ideal size for individual use or a small picnic.
It is compact and portable yet spacious enough to accommodate a substantial meal. The lunch box features a tent-top design, unique to Igloo, allowing easy one-handed opening. The cooler also has a secure lid to ensure your food and beverages stay safe and chilled.
Pros
- Compact size for personal use
- Easy to clean and durable
- Portable design for easy transport
- Push-button lid design for convenient one-handed operation
- Secure lid helps prevent spills
Cons
- The capacity might be too small for some users’ needs
- Not specified if it’s bear-resistant
- The color and design might not be appealing to all users
Igloo ECOCOOL Latitude 30 Qt Cooler
The Igloo ECOCOOL Latitude 30 Qt Cooler is a versatile cooler with a range of features designed to meet your cooling needs. It comes in a variety of colors, allowing you to choose one that best suits your style.
- list_of_features_or_specification
- Brand: Igloo
- Color: 30 qt Eco Green
- Material: Plastic
- Capacity: 2 Liters
- Item Dimensions: 11.84 x 18 x 15 inches
- Item Weight: 6.4 Pounds
- Special Feature: Eco-friendly
- Included Components: Cooler
- Recommended Uses For Product: Sports
- Additional Features: THERMECOOL foam, Elongated profile, Comfortable seat, Swing-up handle, Made with post-consumer recycled resin
Its capacity of 30 quarts can hold up to 41 cans, making it perfect for outdoor adventures. The cooler is equipped with Cool Riser Technology that improves cooling performance by elevating away from hot surfaces.
It also features a mobile device stand with a tall “backstop” that allows you to park phones and tablets off the ground for easy access and viewing. The swing-up handle makes it easy to carry around, and the tie-down loops allow for extra gear attachment.
Pros
- Eco-friendly, made with post-consumer recycled resin
- THERMECOOL foam for better insulation
- Elongated profile to accommodate taller beverages
- Doubles as a comfortable seat
- Swing-up handle for easy one-handed carrying
Cons
- The capacity might be too small for some users’ needs
- Not specified if it’s bear-resistant
- The color might not be appealing to all users
Conclusion
To wrap it up, small coolers are super useful for anyone who loves spending time outdoors, enjoys picnics, or just likes a cold drink when it’s hot outside. They’re small and easy to carry around, and they keep your food and drinks just the right temperature, no matter how hot it is outside.
Whether you’re going to the beach for the day, camping for the weekend, or on a long road trip, a small cooler is something you really need. It’s not just about keeping your drinks cold and your sandwiches tasty, it’s about making your time outside even better.
So, the next time you’re getting ready for some fun outside, remember to bring your small cooler. It’s a small thing that can make a big difference in how much you enjoy your day.