Here is what to look for before you go out to buy one
You’d think that all coolers are created equal. After all, what difference does it make whether you’re drinking from a plastic cooler or a metal one? However, there are a lot of things to consider when buying a new cooler for your next outdoor excursion. A high-quality cooler can last you for years and keep your drinks colder for much longer than an inferior model. The following guide will help you understand what to look for when buying a new cooler so that you get the most out of your purchase and have the coolest drinks possible this summer.
Material and build quality
The material of the cooler is an important consideration due to its impact on insulation ability. Generally, hard-sided coolers will be more insulated than soft-sided ones, due to their thicker walls. A good rule of thumb is that stainless steel and hard-plastic coolers are better for keeping your food and drink colder for longer than most other materials. Stainless steel and hard-plastic coolers are also more durable than soft-sided coolers, which can be prone to rips and tears from regular use.
Size Matters: How much stuff do you need to keep cold
When buying a new cooler, it’s important to calculate how much food and drink you’ll need to keep cold. If you don’t, you risk buying a cooler that’s too small for your needs. When you’re hosting a barbecue with a large group of friends, you’ll need a cooler that can hold multiple types of drinks and several bags of ice to keep all of your food cold. If you’re only hosting a small get-together, a medium-sized cooler with a few bags of ice should be more than sufficient to keep all your drinks and a few cans of soft drinks cold. When purchasing an ice chest look at all the possible events you might take them on from tailgating to road trips and camping, to backyard BBQs. Having an idea of where you will use the will save you from having to buy more than one.
Insulation Ability: How long will it keep your food and drinks cold
Speaking of keeping drinks cold, the insulation ability of your cooler can have a massive impact on how long your drinks stay chilled. If your drinks aren’t cold, to begin with, You will need more ice to cool them and to use in your drinks. An ice chest with a high insulation value will keep your drinks cold for longer than a cooler with a low insulation value, as it keeps the cold in and the heat out. A good way to measure insulation value is to check the temperature rating of each cooler you’re considering purchasing. For example, a cooler with a temperature rating of 32 degrees Fahrenheit will keep your drinks cold for longer than a cooler with a temperature rating of 48 degrees Fahrenheit.
Cost Vs how often you use your new cooler
Some coolers are cheaper than others. However, the lifespan of each cooler will vary depending on the model. If you’re constantly hosting outdoor parties and you need an ice chest that can hold enough food and drinks for several people, you’ll likely want to invest in a high-quality model, as a cheaper cooler probably won’t last you very long. Cheaper coolers are fine if you plan to replace your ice every day but the hassle might not be worth it.
A good cooler can make all the difference when you’re out in the great outdoors
However, not all coolers are created equal. It’s important to consider the material of the ice chest and its insulation ability when buying a new model to ensure that it keeps your drinks cold for as long as possible. A high-quality cooler can last you for years and keep your drinks colder for much longer than an inferior model. The following guide will help you understand what to look for when buying a new cooler so that you get the most out of your purchase and have the coolest drinks possible this summer.