When it comes to outdoor adventures, having a high-quality cooler is essential. For many years, Yeti coolers have been the go-to choice for those who want durability, superior ice retention, and excellent insulation. But with a high price tag and increasing competition, it's time to consider some of the best Yeti cooler alternatives on the market.

Luckily, there are plenty of other cooler brands that are just as effective as Yeti but are more budget-friendly. From Coleman to Pelican and Engel to Igloo, these alternatives offer a range of sizes, features, and styles that are perfect for any outdoor activity.

In this article, we've tested and listed the top Yeti cooler knockoffs and the unique features that set them apart. Whether you're planning a weekend camping trip, a long road trip, or a day at the beach, there's a cooler out there. So, let's dive in and explore the options to see which one is the best for your outdoor needs.

• 1
  Best Overall

  TITAN By Arctic Zone-16 CAN ZIPPERLESS HARDBODY COOLER

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This cooler by Arctic Zone boasts deep freeze insulation, a hardbody liner, and a SmartShelf, making it perfect for keeping ice for up to two days while ensuring beverages and food remain cold. It can hold up to 16 cans and utilizes deep-freeze high-performance insulation with a radiant heat barrier, along with a zipperless lid for quick access. The removable hardbody liner allows easy separation of soft and hard items to prevent crushing. Moreover, the smart shelf can be removed to create a single large compartment if needed. 

Capacity:

16 Cans

2

Best Heavy-duty Cooler

Igloo BMX 52 Qt Cooler

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This Yeti alternative cooler has garnered rave reviews due to its sturdy construction and lightweight design. It's equipped with convenient flex-grip handles for effortless transportation. Robust T-latches ensure prolonged ice retention. What sets this Yeti substitute apart is its inclusion of UV inhibitors in the lid and walls, safeguarding it against sun damage and preserving the frosty temperatures of your beverages for up to 90°F. Additionally, its molded base elevates the cooler from hot surfaces, enhancing its cooling efficiency.

Capacity:

82 Cans

49 L

3

Best Air-tight Cooler

Engel 19 Quart Drybox/Cooler

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The Engel Cooler is a versatile companion for hunters, paddleboarders, beachgoers, and kayak fishermen. It serves as a reliable solution for keeping food and drinks cold and also doubles as a dry box, safeguarding valuable electronics, emergency kits, and cameras from moisture and dust. At the job site, it is the ideal industrial cooler lunchbox, known for its build and secure airtight seal with stainless steel latches. With a range of compact, lightweight, and colorful options in four different sizes, it’s the perfect choice if you’re looking to add convenience to your adventures.

Capacity:

32 Cans

4

Best Portable Cooler

Coleman 50-Quart Xtreme 5-Day Hard Cooler with Wheels

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Equipped with two robust, recessed wheels and a telescoping handle, the Coleman Wheeled Cooler makes moving even when complete a breeze. With superior insulation, it keeps items cool for up to five days in temperatures as high as 90 degrees Fahrenheit. This rolling cooler accommodates up to 84 cans, perfect for outdoor gatherings and sports events. Its leak-resistant drain simplifies water removal, and integrated cup holders keep beverages at arm's reach. 

Capacity:

84 Cans

5

Best Grip

Igloo Marine Ultra 54 Qt Cooler

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This Yeti-like cooler incorporates UV inhibitors to shield against sun damage and features non-slip, comfort-grip swing-up handles for improved grip, especially in wet conditions. Its hybrid latch combines stainless steel in the hinge area for longevity and secure closures, along with plastic in the snap area for added durability. The hinges are crafted with marine-grade material known for its impact resistance, high flexibility, and resistance to temperature and chemicals. Furthermore, rust-resistant stainless steel lid straps and screws are integrated to withstand harsh marine conditions, making this cooler a durable choice for all your marine adventures.

Capacity:

83 Cans

51 L

6

Best Backpack Cooler

ICEMULE Classic Large 20L Collapsible Backpack Cooler

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This rugged and versatile soft-sided cooler bag, constructed with durable MuleSkin fabric, features the revolutionary IM AirValve, sealed seams, and a backpack sling strap. With over 24 hours of cooling, it can maintain ice-cold temperatures for an extended period. Based on our tests, its hands-free design, thanks to a padded and ventilated sling strap, makes it perfect for both men and women on the go. When empty, it can be easily rolled up for convenient storage or used as a carry-on for travelers. The best part? This waterproof and buoyant cooler can float next to your kayak, even when fully loaded! 

Capacity:

20 L

7

Best Lightweight Cooler

RTIC 32 QT Ultra-Light Cooler

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RTIC Coolers have raised eyebrows at Yeti’s headquarters since their inception, sparking a resolved legal dispute. Positioned as an affordable Yeti alternative, RTIC coolers often outperform their pricier counterparts in ice retention tests. Although Yeti excels in weight and build quality, RTIC offers similar rotomolded coolers at a fraction of the cost. Additionally, the interchangeability of components like gaskets and lid seals blurs the lines between the two brands, leaving customers with a compelling choice.

Capacity:

48 Cans(without ice)

8

Best Waterproof Surface

TOURIT Voyager 30 Dark Gray

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This soft cooler by TOURIT features advanced cooling performance with its high-quality insulation in three unique layers to keep food and drinks cool for up to three days. The outer layer features a waterproof surface to prevent sweat, while the middle layer is constructed from high-density foam, and the interior is fully lined with leak-proof material. It is 100% leakproof and impact-resistant, with a waterproof and rugged shell designed to resist punctures and UV rays. Made from BPA-free material, it is the perfect companion for lunches, beach picnics, park outings, tailgating, hiking, camping, or backyard use. 

Capacity:

30 Cans

17 Quarts

9

Most Convenient Closure System

Pelican 30QT Elite Cooler

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Among the best Yeti cooler alternatives, the Pelican Elite line stands out as one of the closest competitors, prioritizing premium quality over cost savings. Despite the cost, we’ve added Pelican Elite coolers to the list for their exceptional ice retention, with our testing showing that ice remains cold for up to nine days. Though they are a bit heavy and bulky, these coolers feature a high-quality freezer-grade gasket and have the added assurance of a lifetime warranty. This makes them an attractive Yeti alternative!

Capacity:

23 Cans

10

Best Insulation

EchoSmile Rotomolded Cooler

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The EchoSmile Rotomolded cooler is a high-performance Yeti dupe with a polyurethane insulation layer, silicone sealing ring, and a 25-quart capacity accommodating up to 38 cans. Weighing 14.3 pounds, it's durable and robust, capable of supporting over 310 lbs. Its rotomolded construction is both environmentally friendly and UV-resistant. Its notable features include sturdy silicon latches, anti-slide rubber feet, ergonomic grips, and a convenient drain plug for easy water removal. Moreover, when we tested the product, we found that it ensures your drinks stay cold for up to 5 days with a 2:1 ice-to-contents ratio.

Capacity:

75 Quarts

11

Grizzly 15 Cooler

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This Grizzly cooler is manufactured through a rotomolding process, utilizing rotationally-molded LLDPE plastic to achieve consistent wall thickness for optimal durability. In terms of thermal properties, it is pressure-injected with up to two inches of Ecomate polyurethane foam, providing efficient cooling without any global warming potential, ozone depletion potential, or VOCs. The lid is equipped with rubber gaskets to seal in cold air and extend the longevity of the ice. Additionally, it’s certified by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC), meeting their bear-resistant standards with two lock holes to secure the cooler and its contents.

Capacity:

14.2 L

12

Pelican 45QW Elite Wheeled Cooler

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This 45-quart Pelican Elite Cooler boasts excellent ice retention, keeping contents cold for 10 days. It’s equipped with 2 inches of insulation and a freezer-grade gasket. Based on our research, it offers convenient features like molded handles, locking latches, and a stainless steel bottle opener. With a leakproof drain plug, measuring board, and non-skid feet, it's a versatile and reliable storage solution, measuring 19.00 x 12.00 x 12.00 inches inside.

Capacity:

42.5 L

13

CANYON COOLER 35 QT

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Experience the ultimate in cooling with this 35-quart Yeti-style cooler. It boasts a 36-can capacity with 6-18 days of ice retention. Furthermore, you’ll get features like a 100% recessed cam latch, integrated bullet-proof hinge, no-lose drain plug, and a locking lid. With the best insulation-to-volume ratio on the market, a rugged PE RotoMolded shell, and IGBC Grizzly Resistant Bear Certification #3769, it's built for the most challenging conditions. Plus, you can enjoy peace of mind with a lifetime warranty. 

Capacity:

33.12 L

14

Siberian Coolers Alpha Pro Series

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This Siberian Cooler stands out with its exceptional durability and convenient features. It is equipped with heavy-duty hard-anodized aluminum latches and stainless steel hinges for secure sealing, while a reversible E/Z slide, non-slip rubber feet, and free shipping enhance their practicality. The cooler also incorporates tie-down strap slots, hidden padlock plates, and an IGBC (Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee) certification for bear resistance (#5139), offering security and peace of mind. To further elevate the user experience, this alternative Yeti cooler includes a heavy-duty wire basket, versatile divider cutting board, security lock bracket, and a handy beverage cup holder. 

Capacity:

- 42.5 L

15

Bison Coolers Gray 50 Quart Cooler

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This cooler is built to impress, featuring a silicone gasket for a reliable seal that ensures premium cooling performance. It also has a pressure-injected 2" thick lid and insulated walls, keeping your ice intact. Moreover, its heavy-duty roto-molded construction can even withstand the weight of a truck, equipped with two robust rubber latches and self-stopping hinges. The cooler's exceptional portability shines through ergonomic grab rails, making it easy to carry, tie-down, and secure, while oversized anti-skid rubber feet provide stability. 

Capacity:

- 47.3 L

Let’s look at how to select the best Yeti cooler alternatives!

Choosing the best Yeti knockoff can be a daunting task, given the many brands and models available in the market. However, you can still find a quality alternative without breaking the bank. Below are the key factors you should consider when choosing a Yeti cooler option:

1. Price:

Yeti coolers are quite pricey, and the high cost may not be feasible for many. However, many quality Yeti alternatives in the market are reasonably priced. You don't have to sacrifice quality and durability to find a more affordable option.

2. Size And Capacity:

Another essential factor to consider when choosing a Yeti cooler alternative is size and capacity. You want a cooler that will accommodate your needs and your group's. Look for a large cooler to carry everything you need without taking up too much space.

3. Insulation And Durability:

The purpose of a cooler is to keep your items cool for an extended period. Therefore, it's vital to consider insulation and durability when choosing an alternative to a Yeti cooler. Look for a cooler that can maintain a consistent temperature and withstand harsh outdoor conditions.

4. Ease of Use:

Finally, it's crucial to choose a Yeti alternative that is easy to use. A good cooler should be user-friendly and easy to carry. Look for one with a comfortable handle and wheels for easy transportation.

When it comes to outdoor adventures and camping trips, having a reliable and sturdy cooler is an absolute must. For many people, Yeti coolers have become the go-to brand due to their impressive insulation, durability, and attractive design. However, not everyone can afford the hefty price tag that comes with a Yeti cooler. That’s where a Yeti alternative cooler comes in.

There are many reasons to opt for an alternative to the beloved Yeti brand. First and foremost, alternative coolers can be significantly less expensive than their Yeti counterparts. This means that you won’t have to break the bank to enjoy your outdoor excursions with a reliable cooler by your side. 

Additionally, Yeti alternatives often offer similar or even identical features to the famous brand. From rotomolded construction and bear-proof designs to easy-drain plugs and slip-resistant feet, these coolers have everything you need to keep your food and drinks cold for days. Plus, with plenty of size and color options, you can find a cooler that suits your needs and style preferences without sacrificing quality. 

Ultimately, purchasing a Yeti alternative cooler depends on your budget and priorities. While a Yeti may be the top choice for many outdoor enthusiasts, there are plenty of alternatives out there that offer just as much quality and value at a fraction of the cost. So, whether you’re a seasoned camper or a first-time adventurer, don’t overlook the benefits of an alternative cooler.

Conclusion

From budget-friendly options to top-of-the-line performance coolers, there is something for every outdoor enthusiast. Some of the best Yeti cooler alternatives include the Pelican Elite, the Grizzly coolers, and the Siberian coolers. These options offer impressive durability, ice retention, and user-friendly features. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preferences and needs, but with so many quality alternatives available, there's no need to break the bank for a Yeti cooler. By exploring these alternative brands, you'll be sure to find a high-quality cooler that meets all of your needs and lasts for years to come.