10 Best Small Ice Chests of 2024: Top Picks for Your Outdoor Adventures

OFF -$3.00Bestseller No. 1
Coleman Chiller 16qt Insulated Portable Cooler with Ice Retention & Large Carry Handle, Made in USA
  • 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
  • DRINKS FOR ALL: Holds up to 11 cans with 8 lbs. of ice
  • MADE IN THE USA
Bestseller No. 2
Titan by Arctic Zone Deep Freeze Cooler - 9 Can Zipperless Hardbody Cooler with Deep Freeze Insulation, HardBody Liner, and SmartShelf - Process Blue
  • TITAN DEEP FREEZE ZIPPERLESS HARDBODY COOLER: Zipperless cooler features a patented, "flip-open" Zipperless lid for quick access to food and drinks; Keeps ice for up to two days* and holds up to 9 cans
  • DEEP FREEZE PERFORMANCE INSULATION: Features Deep Freeze Performance Insulation with an integrated radiant heat barrier; Perfect for keeping food and beverages cold during travel, tailgates, picnics, and more
  • HARDBODY LINER WITH SMARTSHELF: Includes a removable HardBody liner with SmartShelf that allows you to separate hard items from soft so sandwiches and other soft foods don't get crushed; SmartShelf easily removes for extra space
  • DESIGNED FOR CONVENIENCE AND USABILITY: Cooler features an adjustable Backsaver shoulder strap with an anti-slip shoulder pad for carrying comfort and rugged exterior material that is water- and stain-repellent and easy to wipe clean
  • EASY TO CLEAN: Our products are meant to last no matter how dirty they get; Most food residues on the interior and exterior of the cooler can be wiped clean with mild soapy water and a damp cloth; We recommend air-drying to protect cooler insulation
OFF -$4.00Bestseller No. 3
Coleman Cooler—Chiller 9 Quart Portable Cooler
  • 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
  • DRINKS FOR ALL: Holds up to 4 cans with 4 lbs. of ice
  • MADE IN THE USA
Bestseller No. 4
Coleman Classic Series Insulated Portable Wheeled Cooler, Leak-Resistant Outdoor Hard Cooler Keeps Ice up to 5 Days, 100-Quart
  • FULLY INSULATED: Lid and body Keeps the Ice up to 5 days in temperatures as high as 90°F; logo color on cooler may vary
  • FOR THE LONG HAUL: Heavy-duty 6-inch wheels and durable tow & swing-up handles designed for easy transport
  • CUP HOLDERS WITH DRAIN: Molded into the lid to keep drinks from spilling; fit up to a 30-oz. tumbler
  • HAVE-A-SEAT LID: Closed lid supports up to 250 lbs.
  • STAIN-RESISTANT LINER: For easy cleanup; leakproof channel drain plug
OFF -$3.03Bestseller No. 5
Maelstrom Soft Cooler Bag,Soft Sided Cooler,30 Cans Collapsible Cooler,Insulated Ice Chest,Large Leakproof Camping Cooler,Portable Travel Cooler for Kayaking,Beach,Gray, MSCB03
  • Extra Large Capacity: The measure of Maelstrom 30 can soft cooler bag is 14.43*8.97*10.14 inch .This lunch cooler bag can easily hold 30 cans drinks of 330 ML (about 22L) to meet your storing needs.
  • Insulated & 100% Leakproof: Keep cold for up to 24 hours. This soft sided cooler composes of 5 insulated layers, including oxford fabric, waterproof PVC layer, 210D liner and food-grade PEVA material. 5 layers design make this insulated cooler bag keep cold or warm for longer time.With the technology of seamless ultrasonic welding, the thick PEVA material ensures waterproofness.
  • Multi-pockets & Bottle opener: Maelstrom large beach cooler bag has 1 main pocket to well store your drinks and food, 2 front zipper pockets to place your cell phone, 2 side pockets to store small items and 1 back pocket for storing the IPad. This travel cooler comes with a detachable bottle opener so that you can open your drinks anytime anywhere.
  • 3 Carrying Ways: Detachable and adjustable straps, comfortable top handle allow you to hold Maelstrom collapsible coolers for travel by shoulder or by hand. You can also carry the large lunch box for men/women with your friends together with 2 side handles.
  • Collapsible and Portable: This portable cooler can be widely used when you go camping//Beach/hiking/Grocery Shopping/Kayaking/Road Trips. You can fold the leakproof ice chest effortlessly when not in use, which is space-saving.
Bestseller No. 6
OPUX Soft Cooler Bag, Insulated Collapsible Lunch Cooler Bag for Men Work Camping Beach Travel, Portable Soft Sided Leakproof Waterproof Large Lunch Bag Box with Shoulder Strap 18 Cans, Black
  • SOFT COOLER INSULATED BAG: Soft sided pack cooler bag is the perfect insulated bag to keep your food, drinks, ice, and meals cool for camping, beach, picnics, road trips, work, office, and travel. Large capacity and fits up to 18 cans or multiple meals. Roomy enough for ice packs and ice blocks to keep your food extra fresh all day long. Portable soft cooler bag has adjustable reinforced soft carry shoulder straps, velcro handles, a large zipper front pocket, and mesh side pockets for bottles.
  • COLLAPSIBLE LARGE LUNCH FOOD BAG: This large soft lunch box for women, men, and adults is ideal for taking lunch and snacks to the work and office. Portable and collapsible, it is a perfect cooler bag for daily use or outdoors, camping, car, beach, picnics, pool, lakes, and roadtrips. The soft cooler bag is thermal insulated to help keep your food and drinks fresh, cold, hot, and warm for hours. Fabric cooler is foldable making it easy for travel and storage.
  • TRAVEL BEACH CAMPING PORTABLE COOLER: This outdoor portable cooler is soft, lightweight, and collapsible. Easy access top open design gives you quick access, especially for beer, beverages, and snacks. Opux Mini cooler is designed for all outdoor activities or daily use. Whether it's camping, hiking, picnicking, potluck, or a BBQ party, this cooler bag easily packs lots of food, fruits, beer, meat, or even seafood together. It's large enough to carry all picnic essentials for the whole family!
  • LEAKPROOF COOLING BAG: This small travel cooler bag is equipped with a soft PEVA liner that is heat-sealed and leakproof/waterproof, making this ideal for transporting any food and beverage. Its insulated lining will keep your beverage cold or your food hot/warm, making this a versatile bag for carrying cold beverages to the beach or lunch to your office. You may even fill ice in the cooler bag to keep your beverage ice cold during any game day!
  • THERMAL INSULATED BAG: Cooler bag is made with high-quality 600D polyester fabric to ensure maximum durability. The soft leakproof lining is also easy to clean, simply wipe down with a wet cloth. Can be used for food delivery, farmer markers, or transporting groceries. This lunch pail fits up to 8 water bottles or enough room to pack food for the entire family! Measures 12 x 7 x 8.5 inches (L x W x H); Holds up to 18 Cans. THIS ITEM IS NOT INTENDED FOR USE BY CHILDREN 12 AND UNDER.
Bestseller No. 7
Soft Cooler Bag Insulated Leakproof Portable Collapsible Small Ice Chest for Beach Picnic Camping Travel for Car Road Trips, Lunch Box Cooler for Men Work Hieleras para Trabajo, Blue
  • Good Helper for Summer Travel: With its classic design and fashion style, this insulated beach tote is perfect for a beach family time, voyage, pool party, picnic and more! It effortlessly doubles as a cooler bag, picnic basket bag, camping accessories, cruise bag, travel bag, sports bag, vacation bag, overnight bag, pool bag, gym bag, grocery bag, or even a carry-on luggage handbag for the flight to store your essentials
  • Portable & Convenience: The perfect size for food delivery services and a great solution to haul groceries from the store or farmer's market to your kitchen at home; This cooler bag can be packed with lunch and a few ice packs for camping, and it can be placed in the trunk of your SUV as well. When you take a travel by airplane, it can fold it flat and pack it in your suitcase
  • Suitable Dimensions: Our cooler bag can hold up to 15 liters (5 gallons) by volume. Dimensions are 11 x 8.66 x 10.63 inch (L x W x H) , the main compartment is super large capacity and the tote bag can fit 24 can 330ml bottles of your favorite drinks plus ice
  • Multi Pockets: TuErcao car cooler features one main zippered compartment to keep you food and drinks warm or fresh. One front zippered pocket and velcro pocket for cards.One back zippered pocket for cell phone, two mesh pockets for water bottles and an inner mesh bag for knives, forks and spoons
  • Leakproof & Thermal Insulated: Reusable cooler Bag is equipped with eco-friendly waterproof polyester lining, which is soft, leakproof and easy to clean. Padded with 5mm EPE foam and 600d polyester & composite tarpaulin outer fabric will keep your food fresh or warm when you're taking on the daily grind. TuErcao cooler bag is the perfect family bag for the beach, boat, pool, lake, camping, sports, market, picnic and more
Bestseller No. 8
RTIC 8 QT Road Trip Personal Cooler, Small, Compact, Insulated, Portable Ice Chest Box for Food, Drink, Beverage, Beach, Camping, Picnic, Fishing, Boat, 12-Can Capacity, White and Grey
  • ULTRA-LIGHT CONSTRUCTION: The RTIC 8 QT Road Trip Personal Cooler is made to be durable, yet lightweight, perfect for any adventure. This makes it easy to carry and transport this hard cooler anywhere
  • 8 QT COOLER: Designed to fit up to 12 cans, this personal-sized insulated cooler makes an ideal picnic cooler, camping cooler, beach cooler, and more. Its compact size makes it easy to pack and store in small spaces
  • LONG-LASTING COLD RETENTION: With up to 2 inches of closed cell foam insulation and a freezer-style gasket, this small cooler locks in the cold for up to 40 hours (when following RTIC Cooling Tips)
  • SECURE LID LOCK HANDLE: The lid lock handle locks the lid in place when upright and unlocks it when down. This ensures that this portable cooler remains sealed and secure during transport, preventing it from opening
  • EASY TRANSPORT: The RTIC 8 QT Road Trip Personal Cooler features a textured handle that recesses into the lid for easy storage and transport. A silicone cargo net is built into the lid of the cooler for easy storage of dry goods. Non-skid feet keep the cooler in place
OFF -$2.00Bestseller No. 9
Vihicamp Portable Soft Cooler Bag - 24 Can Insulated Camping Cooler, Leakproof Collapsible Soft Sided Cooler for Drink, Suitable for Picnic, Lunch, Beach, Outdoor, Road Trip, Work, Ice Chest
  • LARGE CAPACITY: This camping cooler bag is crafted for everyone looking for a reliable way to keep food and drinks fresh during picnics, beach outings, and long car rides. With a capacity to accommodate up to 24 beverage cans, it can even be filled with ice cubes to ensure optimal cooling. Moreover, this large capacity soft cooler bag boasts multiple additional pockets, offering ample storage for utensils, napkins, snacks, and other essentials
  • KEEP COLD LONGER: The built-in 6mm EPE foam guarantees strong insulation, ensuring that ice packs or cubes remain frozen, making it ideal for extended trips or outdoor gatherings. For prolonged cooling, simply add more ice or ice packs. The liquid on the smooth lining can be wiped away easily. Enjoy your camping trip with our insulated cooler bag
  • LEAKPROOF & STURDY: Crafted from 600D Oxford fabric, the exterior of this cooler withstands the demands of outdoor adventures, enduring exposure to sun, wind, and rain. The interior lining is completely leakproof, with welded together seams. Its seams and zippers are fortified to offer the utmost prevention against leaks. Moreover, the stitches are reinforced at the stress points. With its superior performance, this cooler is the perfect companion
  • PORTABLE: The adjustable shoulder strap and padded handles make it easy to carry this portable cooler bag wherever you go. The removable shoulder strap evenly distributes weight, ensuring comfort even during extended periods of carrying. Despite its spacious storage capacity, this foldable cooler bag remains remarkably lightweight and compact, weighing only 1.08 lbs. It conveniently folds up for easy storage when not in use
  • VERSATILE: This collapsible cooler is incredibly versatile and can be used for a wide range of occasions. The thick insulation also works to keep food and drinks warm, perfect for winter picnics or camping trips. With its spacious design and sturdy construction, this travel cooler bag can hold enough items for a group of people. The different pockets provide a designated space for different items, making it easy to organize and locate items quickly
OFF -$5.86Bestseller No. 10
Igloo Legend 12 Cooler, Easy to-Clean, Stain and Odor Resistant Liner, 9 Quart Capacity, Perfect for Lunch at Work, Ballgames or Sharing Beverages with Friends, 13"H x 9.5"W x 8.75"D
  • Lid reverses from flat surface to tray and cup holder
  • Integrated swing-up lid for one-handed carrying
  • Handle folds flat for storage and easy stacking
  • Fits behind vehicle seats and under stadium seats
  • 12-can capacity

Finding the Best Small Ice Chest: A 2024 Guide

In the pursuit of the best small ice chest, versatility, durability, and insulation performance lead the way. Whether you’re heading for a picnic, a camping trip, or a day at the beach, having a reliable ice chest can make all the difference. In this article, we will explore the top 10 small ice chests available on Amazon in 2024 to help you find the best option for your needs.

Top 10 Small Ice Chests of 2024

1. Coleman 16-Quart Portable Cooler

The Coleman 16-Quart Portable Cooler is perfect for short trips and can hold up to 22 cans, making it a great option for sports events or day trips. The cooler features a classic design with a bail handle for easy carrying. Its insulated body helps keep contents cold, and its lid can double as a seat, supporting up to 250 pounds.

Pros:

  • Compact size
  • Doubles as a seat
  • Affordable

Cons:

  • Limited cooling duration compared to larger models

Overall, the Coleman 16-Quart Cooler stands out among the best small ice chests for its portability and multi-functional use.$

OFF -$3.00Bestseller No. 1
Coleman Chiller 16qt Insulated Portable Cooler with Ice Retention & Large Carry Handle, Made in USA
  • 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
  • DRINKS FOR ALL: Holds up to 11 cans with 8 lbs. of ice
  • MADE IN THE USA

2. Igloo Playmate Pal 7-Quart Cooler

Iconic in its design, the Igloo Playmate Pal 7-Quart Cooler is a nostalgic favorite that never goes out of style. Its unique tent-top lid makes it easy to open with one hand. With a capacity to hold up to nine soda cans, it is an excellent choice for lunches, picnics, and even crafts.

Pros:

  • Compact and stylish design
  • Easy one-handed access

Cons:

  • Smaller capacity compared to others on this list

For those looking for a combination of style and practicality, the Igloo Playmate Pal delivers well, ensuring it earns its place as one of the best small ice chests on the market.

Bestseller No. 1
Igloo Playmate Pal Cooler, Blue/White, 7 Qt
  • Trademark playmate design
  • SELECT propellants that deliver consistent accuracy and performance
  • The product is manufactured in United States
  • Lid swings open to either side for easy access

3. YETI Hopper M20 Soft Cooler

If durability and performance are your top priorities, the YETI Hopper M20 Soft Cooler is hard to beat. With its rugged waterproof construction and closed-cell foam insulation, this cooler can keep ice for days. It’s designed to be carried as a backpack, making it easy to transport while camping or hiking.

Pros:

  • Extremely durable and waterproof
  • Outstanding ice retention
  • Convenient backpack-style transport

Cons:

  • Higher price point

The YETI Hopper sets a high standard among the best small ice chests, combining functionality with a modern design. If you’re willing to invest, this cooler certainly delivers.

Bestseller No. 1
YETI Hopper M20 Backpack Soft Sided Cooler with MagShield Access, Charcoal
  • Carry up to 36 cans of your favorite beverage (or 22 pounds of ice) while keeping your hands free
  • MAGSHIELD ACCESS: Powerful magnets create an ultra-leak-resistant shield that stays open when you need it and seals closed with a gentle push
  • COLDCELL INSULATION: Closed-cell foam offers impressive cold-holding capabilities, helping keep your frosty goods ice cold
  • DRYHIDE SHELL: High-density fabric withstands punctures and UV rays
  • HITCHPOINT GRID: Securely attach your SideKick Dry Gear Case or load it up with the YETI Molle Bottle Opener, Molle Zinger, or other multitools

4. Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze 12-Can Cooler

The Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze Cooler is designed with a multi-layer insulation system and has a high performance cooling cover. It has a capacity for 12 cans and includes an adjustable shoulder strap and a front pocket for extra storage. The cooler is easy to clean and features an ultra-safe leak-proof lining.

Pros:

  • Exceptional insulation
  • Easy to carry and transport
  • Leak-proof lining

Cons:

  • May not hold ice as long as hard coolers

The Arctic Zone Titan is a fantastic choice for those looking for an insulated and portable option among the best small ice chests.

Bestseller No. 1
Titan by Arctic Zone Deep Freeze Cooler - 9 Can Zipperless Hardbody Cooler with Deep Freeze Insulation, HardBody Liner, and SmartShelf - Sharkskin Gray
  • TITAN DEEP FREEZE ZIPPERLESS HARDBODY COOLER: Zipperless cooler features a patented, "flip-open" Zipperless lid for quick access to food and drinks; Keeps ice for up to two days* and holds up to 9 cans
  • DEEP FREEZE PERFORMANCE INSULATION: Features Deep Freeze Performance Insulation with an integrated radiant heat barrier; Perfect for keeping food and beverages cold during travel, tailgates, picnics, and more
  • HARDBODY LINER WITH SMARTSHELF: Includes a removable HardBody liner with SmartShelf that allows you to separate hard items from soft so sandwiches and other soft foods don't get crushed; SmartShelf easily removes for extra space
  • DESIGNED FOR CONVENIENCE AND USABILITY: Cooler features an adjustable Backsaver shoulder strap with an anti-slip shoulder pad for carrying comfort and rugged exterior material that is water- and stain-repellent and easy to wipe clean
  • EASY TO CLEAN: Our products are meant to last no matter how dirty they get; Most food residues on the interior and exterior of the cooler can be wiped clean with mild soapy water and a damp cloth; We recommend air-drying to protect cooler insulation

5. Matein Insulated Cooler Backpack

For those who prefer a backpack-style cooler, the Matein Insulated Cooler Backpack is an excellent choice. This cooler backpack is made from a durable fabric and is designed for hiking, picnic outings, or beach days. It’s lightweight, waterproof, and boasts multiple storage compartments for extra supplies.

Pros:

  • Hands-free carrying
  • Ample storage space
  • Waterproof and durable

Cons:

  • May not maintain ice as long as hard coolers

The Matein Insulated Cooler Backpack is versatile and functional, making it a strong contender for those seeking some of the best small ice chests available.

OFF -$12.00Bestseller No. 1
MATEIN Cooler Backpack, 26 Cans Insulated Lunch Backpack for Men Women, Leakproof Double Layer Lunch Cooler Bag Lightweight Soft Lunch Backpack with Cooler Compartment, Beach Camping Hiking Beer Gifts
  • Dual Compartment Backpack Cooler: Insulated cooler backpack is divided into upper and lower layers with a double zipper, providing ample space to pack all your necessities. The lower level is equipped with a main leak proof cooler compartment, for drinks, beer, fruits, ice pack(capacity: 16 cans) measuring L12 * W7 * H9.8 inches. The upper part has space enough for dry items, such as meals, snacks, phone and so on(capacity: 10 cans) size: L12 * W7 * H7.5 inches. Attention: No laptop compartment
  • Insulated & Leakproof Cooler Design: The inner insulation of the cooler backpack is thickened with foam and the leak-proof PEVA liner works together to keep food and drinks cold for hours without worrying about leakage. Friendship tip: Ice pack layer of the lunch backpack for men put in ice volume should be controlled in 1/2, try to avoid put in sharp ice and high frequency gravity jitter
  • Lightweight & High-quality: The lunch box backpack made of high-quality and waterproof fabric which will not rip, tear or scratch but also lightweight. Breathable mesh pads on back make it convenient to carry for long durations, adjustable shoulder straps and waist straps can distribute the load. It's a great gift idea for men and women as Brithday gifts Festival gifts. Backpack for truck driver, Gifts for lover, Father's day gift, Gift ideas for men, Father's day gift from daughter
  • Multiple Pockets: The backpack cooler leakproof includes 1 main large insulated leak proof storage compartment for drinks, 1 upper half compartment used to organize dry items, 1 large front zipper pocket for knife, fork and plate. 2 small pockets can be used to keep accessories like mobile, bottles, wallet, etc. 2 large mesh side pockets which are perfect for 2 bottles of wine or umbrella and 1 beer opener on the strap for your easily use
  • Versatile: The backpack lunch bag for men is a perfect outdoor activities partner, travelers gifts for men, fathers day gift ideas. You can use it as an insulated lunch backpack as well as a portable cooler for a beach, picnic, hiking, fishing, camping, travel or other outdoor activities. Father's day gift ideas, Best boss gifts for men, Great beer gifts for beer lovers, Truck driver gifts for men, 1st father's day gift, Fathers day gift, unique gifts for men, backpack lunchbox for men

6. Engel 19QT Dry Box Cooler

If you want a cooler that doubles as both a dry box and an ice chest, the Engel 19QT Dry Box is a fantastic choice. This hard-sided cooler is lightweight, portable, and features a pressure relief valve for easy access. It can hold ice for several days, ensuring your perishables remain cold during long trips.

Pros:

  • Dual functionality
  • Excellent ice retention
  • Literally waterproof

Cons:

  • Smaller capacity compared to larger Engel models

The Engel 19QT offers rugged performance and versatility, which is what makes it popular among those searching for the best small ice chests.

Bestseller No. 1
Engel UC19 19qt Leak-Proof, Air Tight, Drybox Cooler and Small Hard Shell Lunchbox for Men and Women in Black
  • ENGEL HARD SHELL DRYBOX FISHING COOLER: Stainless Steel industrial strength latches and hinged lid for quick and access to food and drinks; Keeps ice for up to two days and holds up to 32 cans with a 2:1 ratio of ice to cans.
  • ENGEL HIGH-PERFORMANCE INSULATION: Features high-grade molded polystyrene foam insulation with hard plastic outer shell heat barrier; Perfect for keeping food and beverages cold on job sites, fishing, camping, travel, tailgates, picnics, and more.
  • AIR TIGHT AND LEAK PROOF: Engel’s recessed ethylene-vinyl acetate gasket seal ensures that this cooler does not leak and is air-tight. This prevents dust and other impurities from getting in, making it the perfect dry box for expensive camera equipment and electronics.
  • INCLUDED ACCESSORIES & OPTIONS: Includes a removable hanging accessory tray for to keep smaller items within easy reach and to separate sandwiches and other soft foods so they don't get get soggy or crushed; This tray is removable. Our cooler also ships with a heavy duty shoulder strap for easy carrying. 14 color options with UV inhibitors protect the cooler’s against sun damage and extends the life of the dry box and 4 sizes, including 7.5Qt, 13Qt, 19Qt and 30Qt.
  • DURABILITY AND USABILITY: Cooler features a hardbody shell with stainless steel hardware, that is almost indestructible. Engel’s rugged drybox coolers are built to last in the harshest conditions. EASY TO CLEAN: A simple cleaning with soapy water is all it takes to keep the Engel cooler looking like new.

7. Walmart Ozark Trail 26-Quart Cooler

This Walmart distributor’s compact Ozark Trail 26 Quart Cooler is superb for nearly all occasions. Its user-friendly price and spacious interior, which holds up to 30 cans, set it apart. Although it’s kept simple, it still has durable construction and solid insulation. It’s perfect for family outings or camping trips.

Pros:

  • Great price-to-performance ratio
  • Good insulation

Cons:

  • Some users report durability issues with heavy use

The Ozark Trail Cooler provides fantastic value while being one of the more affordable options among the best small ice chests available today.

No products found.

8. Igloo Marine Ultra Cooler

The Igloo Marine Ultra Cooler is engineered specifically for optimal beachfront usage. Its UV protection and corrosion-resistant hardware make it perfect for trips near water. With a sealed lid that prevents the heat from escaping, this cooler keeps your contents chilled even under the sun.

Pros:

  • Corrosion-resistant
  • Great for marine use

Cons:

  • Heavier than other options

The Igloo Marine Ultra excels in performance during beach trips or boat rides, affirming its place among the best small ice chests.

Bestseller No. 1
Igloo 70 QT Latitude Marine Ultra White Cooler
  • Cool Riser Technology – elevated design improves cooling performance
  • “Hybrid” latch is stainless steel where it matters – in the hinge area – while plastic in the snap area for longer life and a secure closure
  • THERMECOOL Foam – Cleaner, eco-friendly insulation
  • Foam insulated lid and body provides up to 5 days of ice retention performance
  • 70 Qt. / 66 L / 102 Cans

9. OZARK TRIAL 20-Quart Cooler

This hard cooler offers a good balance of performance and portability. It features a sturdy design, locking lid, and handles for easy transport. The insulation technology allows for reliable performance, maintaining your ice for up to 3 days in moderate temperatures.

Pros:

  • Sturdy construction
  • Good ice retention

Cons:

  • Heavier than soft-sided coolers

With its combination of strength and solid cooling capabilities, the OZARK TRAIL Cooler is a suitable pick among the best small ice chests.

OFF -$16.90Bestseller No. 1
RTIC 20 QT Ultra-Tough Cooler Hard Insulated Portable Ice Chest Box for Beach, Drink, Beverage, Camping, Picnic, Fishing, Boat, Barbecue, White
  • ALL ABOUT THE EXTREMES – The RTIC Ultra-Tough Cooler is designed for impact resistance, durability, and long-lasting ice retention. Perfect for anywhere adventure takes you.
  • LONG-LASTING ICE RETENTION – Keep your drinks, food, and meat cold on that weekend trip in an insulated cooler; it’s all about the extremes, offering long-lasting ice retention.
  • HEAVY-DUTY STAINLESS STEEL HANDLE – This 20QT cooler features a heavy-duty stainless steel handle that locks into an upright position, allowing for effortless one-handed carrying.
  • MULTIPLE USES – It’s the perfect ice cooler, drink cooler, travel cooler, beer cooler, can cooler, camping cooler, beach cooler, boat cooler, or barbecue cooler.
  • MANY SIZES AVAILABLE – This outdoor cooler comes in 20 qt, 45 qt, 65 qt, 110 qt, and 145 qt sizes. This 20QT hard cooler can double up as a bench, step stool or tabletop. Capacity: 20 QT / Up to 30 cans. Measures: 19 1/4 x 13 1/4 x 14 ½. Empty weight: 15.7 lbs.

10. Coolers by CleverMade Collapsible Cooler

Last but not least, the CleverMade Collapsible Cooler is perfect for those who prefer a space-saving design when not in use. The cooler folds flat, making it easy to store. It also includes a padded shoulder strap for easier portability, with a capacity for up to 36 cans.

Pros:

  • Space-saving design
  • Lightweight and collapsible

Cons:

  • Not as durable as hard-sided coolers

If organization and space-saving are your main concerns, the CleverMade Collapsible Cooler could be the ideal option among the best small ice chests.

OFF -$11.41Bestseller No. 1
CleverMade Collapsible Insulated Cooler Bag – 50 Can Leakproof Soft Cooler for Beach, Travel, Car – Shoulder Strap, Bottle Opener – Midnight
  • [WHY THESE ROCK]: This soft sided portable cooler keeps your bevvies cold with a premium leakproof liner that doesn't leak like a backpack cooler that uses a thinner liner. Our sturdy but collapsible beach cooler is much lighter & easier to handle than a hard cooler, making it one of your top beach necessities or camping essentials. Our insulated coolers include a bottle opener, multiple pockets & are made from recycled materials
  • [IDEAL COLLAPSIBLE COOLER BAG FOR TRAVEL]: From our smallest to our largest 50 can insulated cooler bag, these are a perfect travel cooler for car because the soft-sided cooler can fit more easily in tight spaces than a Styrofoam cooler without worrying about them breaking. This outdoor cooler includes a shoulder strap making it easier than a picnic basket to haul your food and beverages while you enjoy the outdoors
  • [STRONG AND RUGGED]: Compared to another can cooler or beach cooler bag on the market, we want you to keep this for years. We designed this hard bottom beer cooler with sturdy hinges that can hold up to 50 cans and 55 lbs. This collapsible cooler bag has loops to attach your portable speaker & car keys for added convenience, something a regular collapsible picnic basket doesn't provide
  • [FAMILY-SIZE INSULATED LUNCH BAG]: Use this collapsible car cooler to pack lunch for the entire family on your next road trip with space to hold your napkins and paper plates. Weighing less than 3 lbs, this collapsible cooler bag is 1 of your beach essentials even if you fly because it collapses to just 3 inches.
  • [OTHER USES]: Replace your insulated grocery tote bag with this more durable soft ice chest or ditch your picnic basket set because because this cooler bag wont leak and you can use the top side to serve from. Bring this bag to summer sporting events, beach trips or other outdoor excursions

Buying Guide for the Best Small Ice Chest

Choosing the best small ice chest for your needs involves several considerations. Here’s a comprehensive guide to make the selection process easier:

1. Size and Capacity

Assess how much storage space you need. Whether for day trips or picnics, choose an ice chest that accommodates your anticipated supplies while remaining portable.

2. Insulation

Effective insulation ensures your ice lasts longer. Look for coolers with thick walls and solid sealing features to maintain internal temperatures.

3. Durability

The material matters! Hard-sided coolers generally offer better longevity than soft-sided versions, especially if you’ll use them in rough outdoor conditions. Consider waterproof designs if frequently near water.

4. Portability

Choose an ice chest that is easy to carry. Check for features like backpack straps, handles, or wheels to enhance transportability, especially if you’re venturing into hiking trails or camping spots.

5. Budget

Set a budget while shopping for a small ice chest. Reflect on how often you’ll use it to determine if a higher-end option might be worth the investment over time.

6. Additional Features

Consider features like cup holders, detachable lids, or front pockets. Some ice chests have multifunctional capabilities, including serving as seats or incorporating bottle openers.

Conclusion

In 2024, the best small ice chests cater to varying lifestyles and budgets. Whether you favor hard or soft coolers, each featured product offers unique benefits to fit diverse needs.

Investing in a quality small ice chest can significantly enhance your outdoor experiences. So when you’re selecting yours, keep factors like insulation, durability, and portability at the forefront. With the right choice, you’re set for great adventures ahead!

Last update on 2025-07-01 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API | hishecozy.com is a participant in the Amazon Associate program and will earn from qualifying purchases.

Leave a Reply