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BEST RTIC COOLERS OF 2026

Updated
Updated
BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK
RTIC RTIC Soft Pack 30
RTIC
Soft Pack 30
Portable Soft Cooler Bag
The RTIC Soft Pack 30 is a lightweight, leak-proof cooler bag that keeps your drinks and snacks cold for days. It’s ideal for picnics, road trips, and outdoor adventures where portability is key.
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Pros & Cons
PROS
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Leak-proof design
  • Easy to clean
  • Comfortable to carry
CONS
  • Shorter ice retention than hard coolers
  • Zipper can be stiff
BEST OF THE BEST
RTIC 45 QT Hard Cooler
Heavy-Duty Hard Cooler
Capacity: 45 Quarts
Weight: 25 lbs
Exterior Dimensions: 26.5 x 16.5 x 15.9 inches
Material: Polyethylene
Ice Retention: Up to 10 days

The RTIC 45 QT Hard Cooler is engineered to withstand the toughest outdoor conditions. Its rotomolded construction ensures maximum durability, making it nearly indestructible for any adventure. The cooler features up to 3 inches of commercial-grade insulation, which keeps ice frozen for days, even in extreme heat.

With a 45-quart capacity, it can hold up to 36 cans plus ice, making it ideal for group outings. The heavy-duty T-latches and freezer-style gasket create a tight seal, locking in the cold and keeping contents fresh.

Non-slip feet keep the cooler in place, while molded tie-down slots allow for secure transport. The dual drain plugs make cleaning and draining effortless.Whether you’re heading out for a weekend camping trip or a day at the beach, the RTIC 45 QT Hard Cooler delivers reliable performance and convenience.

PROS
  • Exceptional ice retention
  • Rugged and durable build
  • Spacious interior
  • Easy to clean and drain
CONS
  • Heavier than some competitors
  • Bulky for solo use
BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK
RTIC Soft Pack 30
Portable Soft Cooler Bag
Capacity: 30 Cans
Weight: 5.5 lbs
Exterior Dimensions: 15 x 11 x 12 inches
Material: Nylon/Polyester
Ice Retention: Up to 24 hours

The RTIC Soft Pack 30 offers the convenience of a soft cooler with the performance of a hard-sided model. Its tough, puncture-resistant exterior is built to handle rough use, while the closed-cell foam insulation ensures your items stay cold for up to 24 hours.

The cooler is 100% leak-proof thanks to its waterproof zipper and welded seams, so you don’t have to worry about spills or melted ice. The comfortable shoulder strap and side handles make carrying easy, even when fully loaded.

With a 30-can capacity, it’s perfect for family outings or group events.This cooler is also easy to clean and store, folding down when not in use. It’s a great choice for anyone who needs a reliable, portable cooler for daily use.

PROS
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Leak-proof design
  • Easy to clean
  • Comfortable to carry
CONS
  • Shorter ice retention than hard coolers
  • Zipper can be stiff
RTIC 65 QT Hard Cooler
Large Capacity Hard Cooler
Capacity: 65 Quarts
Weight: 36 lbs
Exterior Dimensions: 32.25 x 18.5 x 17.13 inches
Material: Polyethylene
Ice Retention: Up to 10 days

The RTIC 65 QT Hard Cooler is the go-to choice for those who need maximum storage and cooling power. Its rotomolded construction provides unmatched strength, making it suitable for rugged environments like hunting camps, fishing trips, and tailgate parties.

With a 65-quart capacity, this cooler can hold up to 64 cans plus ice, making it ideal for big groups or long adventures. The thick insulation and freezer-grade gasket keep ice frozen for up to 10 days, ensuring your food and beverages stay cold.

Heavy-duty T-latches and non-slip feet add to its reliability, while the dual drain plugs make emptying and cleaning a breeze.This cooler is designed for those who refuse to compromise on performance or capacity, making it a trusted companion for any outdoor event.

PROS
  • Huge storage capacity
  • Excellent ice retention
  • Durable and rugged
  • Easy to drain and clean
CONS
  • Heavy when fully loaded
  • Takes up significant space
RTIC 20 QT Hard Cooler
Compact Personal Cooler
Capacity: 20 Quarts
Weight: 17.5 lbs
Exterior Dimensions: 20.25 x 14.25 x 15.87 inches
Material: Polyethylene
Ice Retention: Up to 7 days

The RTIC 20 QT Hard Cooler is perfect for those who need a reliable cooler without the bulk. Its rotomolded construction ensures it can handle bumps and drops, making it ideal for fishing, kayaking, or day trips.

Despite its smaller size, the cooler features thick insulation and a freezer-style gasket for excellent ice retention, keeping your drinks and snacks cold for days. The heavy-duty T-latches and non-slip feet provide security and stability, while the integrated handle makes transport simple.

This cooler is easy to clean and fits easily in most vehicles, making it a great choice for personal use or small group outings.

PROS
  • Compact and portable
  • Excellent durability
  • Good ice retention
  • Easy to carry
CONS
  • Limited capacity
  • Heavier than some soft coolers
RTIC Backpack Cooler
Backpack Cooler Solution
Capacity: 30 Cans
Weight: 5 lbs
Exterior Dimensions: 15 x 11 x 18 inches
Material: Nylon/Polyester
Ice Retention: Up to 24 hours

The RTIC Backpack Cooler is designed for those who need mobility and cooling performance in one package. Its ergonomic backpack straps and lightweight design make it comfortable to carry, even on long hikes or walks.

The cooler is constructed with a tough, water-resistant exterior and features closed-cell insulation to keep contents cold for up to 24 hours.With a 30-can capacity, it’s spacious enough for a day’s worth of food and drinks.

The leak-proof zipper and welded seams prevent spills, while multiple pockets provide storage for utensils, napkins, or small gear. The padded back panel and adjustable straps ensure a comfortable fit, even when fully loaded.

This backpack cooler is a great choice for anyone who wants to keep their hands free while enjoying cold refreshments on the go.

PROS
  • Hands-free carrying
  • Comfortable and lightweight
  • Leak-proof design
  • Spacious interior
CONS
  • Not suitable for large groups
  • Zipper may require lubrication

How our picks compare

SpecificationRTIC 45 QT Hard CoolerRTIC Soft Pack 30RTIC 65 QT Hard CoolerRTIC 20 QT Hard CoolerRTIC Backpack Cooler
Capacity45 Quarts30 Cans65 Quarts20 Quarts30 Cans
Weight25 lbs5.5 lbs36 lbs17.5 lbs5 lbs
Exterior Dimensions26.5 x 16.5 x 15.9 inches15 x 11 x 12 inches32.25 x 18.5 x 17.13 inches20.25 x 14.25 x 15.87 inches15 x 11 x 18 inches
MaterialPolyethyleneNylon/PolyesterPolyethylenePolyethyleneNylon/Polyester
Ice RetentionUp to 10 daysUp to 24 hoursUp to 10 daysUp to 7 daysUp to 24 hours

When searching for the best RTIC coolers, it’s important to consider several factors that align with your specific needs, whether you’re planning a weekend camping trip, a day at the beach, or a long road journey. RTIC has built a reputation for delivering high-quality coolers that rival some of the top brands in the market, often at a more accessible price point. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate their product lineup and select the ideal cooler for your adventures.

Begin by assessing the size you require. RTIC offers a range of hard-sided coolers, from compact 20-quart models to massive 145-quart options. If you’re typically packing for one or two people, a smaller cooler is sufficient and easier to transport. For larger groups or extended trips, the bigger models provide ample storage for food and beverages. It’s wise to consider not just the number of people but also the duration of your outings, as longer trips demand more space for ice and perishables.

Insulation performance is another critical aspect. RTIC coolers are known for their thick walls and robust lids, which help maintain low temperatures for several days. This is especially valuable in hot climates or when you won’t have frequent access to fresh ice. Look for coolers with features like freezer-grade gaskets and heavy-duty latches, as these contribute to superior ice retention.

Portability should not be overlooked. While larger coolers offer more capacity, they can become cumbersome when fully loaded. RTIC addresses this with molded handles, rope handles, and in some models, built-in wheels. If you anticipate moving your cooler over rough terrain or long distances, a wheeled model or one with comfortable grips can make a significant difference.

Durability is a hallmark of RTIC products. Their coolers are constructed with rotomolded plastic, which is highly resistant to impacts and rough handling. This makes them suitable for outdoor environments where bumps and drops are inevitable. Additionally, many RTIC coolers are certified bear-resistant, an important consideration for camping in wildlife areas.

Pay attention to additional features that enhance convenience. RTIC coolers often include integrated rulers on the lid for anglers, non-slip feet to keep the cooler in place, and drain plugs for easy cleaning. Some models have dual drain plugs for faster water removal and tie-down slots for securing the cooler during transport.

Soft-sided coolers from RTIC are another option if you prioritize lighter weight and easier storage. These are ideal for day trips or situations where space is limited. They offer impressive insulation for their size and are designed with leak-proof zippers and sturdy carrying straps.

Budget is always a factor, and RTIC’s pricing is one of its strong suits. You’ll often find that their coolers deliver similar performance to premium brands at a lower cost. However, it’s still important to balance price with the features and capacity you need.

Finally, consider aesthetics and customization. RTIC coolers come in a variety of colors and sometimes offer limited edition designs. While this may not affect performance, it allows you to choose a cooler that matches your style or is easily identifiable in a group setting.

In summary, finding the best RTIC cooler involves evaluating your storage needs, insulation requirements, portability preferences, and desired features. By carefully considering these elements, you can select a cooler that will keep your food and drinks cold, withstand the rigors of outdoor use, and serve you well for years to come.