Choosing the right tailgate cooler can be hard. A good tailgate party cooler keeps drinks cold all day. Our list of the 5 best tailgate coolers of 2024 will guide you. Keep reading for cool finds!
Quick Recommendation
- Portable, High-Capacity Cooler With Long Ice Retention for Tailgating and Camping: Pelican 45QT Elite Wheeled Cooler
- Ultimate Tailgating Companion Equipped with Drink Tank: BrüMate BrüTank Wheeled Hard Cooler with Built-in Drink Dispenser Tank and Tap
- Portable, Durable Cooler for Tailgating Adventures and Outdoor Activities: RTIC Ultra-Light 52 Quart Hard Cooler
- Durable and Insulated Tailgate Essential for Any Outdoor Adventure: YETI Tundra 45 Cooler
- Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who love fishing, tailgating, and camping: Igloo BMX Hard Coolers 52QT
Top 5 Tailgate Coolers of 2024
1. Pelican 45QT Elite Wheeled Cooler
Durable, High-Capacity Cooler With Long Ice Retention for Tailgating and Camping
Highlights
- Spacious interior dimensions of 19.00" x 12.00" x 12.00" for ample storage space
- Easy mobility with heavy-duty large-diameter wheels
- Generous 34 can capacity at a 2:1 ice ratio
- Lightweight at only 37.25 pounds for effortless transportation
- Superior insulation thickness of 2.00 inches to keep contents cold
- Price: $449.95
The Pelican 45QT Elite Wheeled Cooler stands out as the top choice for anyone looking to upgrade their football tailgate party experience. Its robust design and impressive 7-day ice retention ensure that your beverages stay cold from kickoff to the final whistle.
With a capacity of up to 34 cans at a 2:1 ice ratio, this cooler can easily accommodate enough drinks for your whole crew. The heavy-duty wheels and sturdy trolley handle make transporting this cooler over parking lot terrains or fields effortless.
Tailgaters will appreciate the built-in conveniences like a bottle opener for one less thing to pack. We also love the sloped drain and tethered threaded plug for easy cleanup after a full day of fun.
The Pelican 45QT Elite’s lifetime guarantee further seals the deal as our number one pick because it promises long-lasting performance through countless seasons of tailgating fun and all of your other adventures.
Pros
- Keeps ice for 7 days
- Easy to transport with heavy-duty wheels and trolley handle
- Secure with press-and-pull latches and bear-proof certification
- Durable and long-lasting, guaranteed for life
Cons
- Heavy when fully loaded
- Limited color options
Whether you're tailgating, camping, or hitting the beach, this cooler is a must-have companion. Upgrade your adventures today with the ultimate in rugged coolers!
2. BrüMate BrüTank Wheeled Hard Cooler with Built-in Drink Dispenser Tank and Tap
(Images Credits: Amazon)
Ultimate Tailgating Companion: Keeps Drinks Cold, Equipped with Drink Tank
Highlights
- 55-quart BrüMate BrüTank cooler with built-in drink dispenser and tap
- Puncture-resistant wheel design for durability and easy transport
- Includes a built-in bottle opener for convenience
- Fits 48 cans + 2.8 gallons in the drink dispenser
- Backed by a 5-year warranty from the manufacturer
- Price: $399.99
For the ultimate party cooler, the BrüMate BrüTank Wheeled Hard Cooler stands out with its unique built-in drink dispenser tank and tap. Imagine you're hosting a pre-game party in the parking lot: Instead of carrying heavy containers, you can use the BrüTank's 2.8-gallon drink dispenser. It makes serving drinks easy and convenient.
This feature alone makes mixing up a large batch your favorite drink easy, allowing guests to serve themselves while you enjoy the festivities. Plus, its built-in bottle opener ensures nobody is ever left searching for one when it's time to crack open a cold one.
We've selected the BrüMate BrüTank as our No. 2 pick because it expertly combines convenience with durability. It has superior ice retention thanks to up to 3" of closed-cell foam insulation. Tailgaters will appreciate how effortlessly this cooler glides over rough terrain with its puncture-resistant all-terrain wheels; no more struggling to carry heavy coolers across parking lots or fields!
Pros
- Built-in 2.8 gallon drink dispenser for easy access to ice-cold beverages on the go
- Superior ice retention with up to 3" of closed cell foam insulation, keeping drinks cold for days
- All-terrain wheeled cooler with puncture-resistant wheels for easy transportation in rough terrains
- Versatile storage capacity - fits 48 cans + 2.8 gallons in the drink dispenser, or 72 cans without the drink tank installed
Cons
- Heavy when fully loaded
- Tap can be prone to leaking if not properly sealed
- Expensive initial investment
The BrüMate BrüTank Wheeled Hard Cooler with Built-in Drink Dispenser Tank and Tap is perfect for the outdoor enthusiast who loves tailgating, beach trips, camping, and parties. If you're looking for a durable cooler that can keep your drinks ice-cold and features innovative accessories, then click to buy now and be ready for all your adventures in 2024.
3. RTIC Ultra-Light 52 Quart Hard Cooler
(Images Credits: Amazon)
Portable, Durable Cooler for Tailgating Adventures and Outdoor Activities
Highlights
- Designed to be more than 30% lighter than rotomolded coolers of the same capacity
- Can double up as a bench, step stool, tabletop, or extra cutting board
- Easy carry handle
- Comes with a 3-year warranty for peace of mind
- Durable t-latches
- Price: $209.99
The RTIC Ultra-Light 52 quart Hard Cooler combines portability with durability in a cooler that's surprisingly light. This model is over 30% lighter than traditional rotomolded coolers. That means less struggle hauling gear from your car to the party spot and more time enjoying the pre-game festivities.
Its versatility shines through at every tailgate; not only does it serve as an efficient ice chest keeping beverages cold throughout the game thanks to its significant insulation but also doubles as a sturdy bench or extra table space when grill space runs short.
What sets this cooler apart for football fans and tailgaters isn't just its lightweight design but also its long-lasting ice retention capability. The RTIC Ultra-Light has been crafted with outdoor enthusiasts in mind, featuring up to three inches of closed-cell foam insulation that stands up against the sweltering heat found in packed parking lots on game day.
For those hosting or attending a football tailgate party, choosing this cooler comes down to not just needing something functional but requiring a reliable addition to their game-day gear collection that won't weigh them down—literally. Its selection as our third choice reflects a balance of size, weight efficiency, and performance.
Pros
- 52 quart true-to-size capacity
- Can be used as a bench, step stool, tabletop, or cutting board
- Long lasting ice retention with up to 3 inches of insulation
- 30% lighter than rotomolded coolers
Cons
- Limited color options
- Some users may find the lid latch not as secure
The RTIC Ultra-Light 52 quart Hard Cooler is perfect for the adventurous tailgater who values portability, durability, and extreme ice retention. Whether you're heading to the beach, a camping trip, or a barbecue, this cooler is designed to keep your drinks cold and withstand any outdoor activity. Upgrade your tailgate game with the RTIC Ultra-Light 52 quart Hard Cooler today!
4. YETI Tundra 45 Cooler
(Images Credits: Amazon)
Durable and Insulated Tailgate Essential for Any Outdoor Adventure
Highlights
- Large 45QT capacity can hold up to 26 cans
- Durable rotomolded construction
- Vortex drain system for quick and easy draining
- Equipped with a dry goods basket to keep delicate items separate or items above the ice
- Price: $300.00
The YETI Tundra 45 Cooler shines as an essential for any tailgate party, bringing durability and ice retention to the forefront. With its sturdy rotomolded construction, this cooler stands up to the most enthusiastic of celebrations.
Tailgaters will appreciate the T-Rex Lid Latches that prevent any spill mishaps amidst the excitement of game day. Its capacity to hold 26 cans with a recommended 2:1 ice-to-contents ratio ensures drinks stay cold from kickoff until the last play, making it a reliable choice for keeping beverages frosty.
Beyond its rugged build, the YETI Tundra 45 offers practical features tailored to enhance tailgating experiences. The PermaFrost Insulation and FatWall design keep ice solid for hours, even in sweltering parking lot conditions.
Plus, coming standard with one dry goods basket lets hosts separate snacks from cold drinks effortlessly. Whether hosting a small gathering or joining a large party crowd, the YETI Tundra 45 Cooler meets all needs with outstanding performance and toughness.
Pros
- Weight: 23 lbs
- T-Rex Lid Latches with patented keeper technology
- Rotomolded construction for durability and strength
- Up to 3 inches of PermaFrost Insulation and certified Bear-Resistant
Cons
- Heavy when fully loaded
- Can be pricey compared to other coolers
The YETI Tundra 45 Cooler is perfect for the outdoor enthusiast who demands tough, reliable gear. Whether you're tailgating or embarking on an adventure, this cooler's rugged construction and superior insulation make it ideal for keeping your drinks cold and your food fresh. Upgrade to the YETI Tundra 45 for a cooler that can handle any excursion with ease.
5. Igloo BMX Hard Coolers-52QT
(Images Credits: Amazon)
Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who love fishing, tailgating, and camping
Highlights
- Spacious 52-quart capacity for ample storage during a football party
- Heavy duty blow-molded construction with reinforced base
- Convenient handle for easy carrying and transportation
- UV inhibitors protect the cooler against sun damage for extended life
- Up to 5 day ice retention
- Price: $124.17
The Igloo BMX Hard Cooler 52QT stands out as a top pick for anyone gearing up for a football tailgate party. With its heavy-duty blow-molded construction, this cooler is built to withstand the rough and tumble of pre-game celebrations. Its Cool Riser Technology ensures drinks stay chilled throughout the day by keeping the cooler body away from hot surfaces like asphalt or truck beds.
The swing-up side handles feature stainless steel reinforcement & rubber grip touch points making it easy to move even when fully loaded with beverages and food.
The durable, rubberized lid T-latches not only lock in cold air but also secure your supplies from accidental spills during an intense parking lot game session or while cheering on your team. For those looking for reliability and performance in their tailgate setup, the Igloo BMX 52QT delivers cooling efficiency, durability, and convenience wrapped into one portable package.
Pros
- Improved cooling performance with Cool Riser Technology that elevates the cooler body away from hot surfaces.
- Also available in 25QT and 72QT capacities
- Secure hold and durability provided by the triple-point swing handle featuring stainless steel reinforcement & rubber grip, and heavy-duty blow-molded construction.
- Most economical of the coolers on our list
Cons
- Lid fish ruler may be hard to read in certain lighting conditions
- Cooler body is heavy when fully packed
- Rubberized T-latches can wear out over time
The Igloo BMX Hard Cooler 52QT is perfect for the outdoor enthusiast who loves fishing, tailgating, and camping. Its durable construction and features like the molded-in fish ruler make it ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities.
How to Choose the Best Tailgate Cooler
When choosing the best tailgate cooler, consider size and capacity, durability and insulation, extra features, and reviews to find the perfect one for your needs. To learn more about selecting the ideal tailgate cooler for your next party, read on.
Consider size and capacity
How big of a cooler for your tailgate party is a crucial choice. You need a cooler that can hold enough drinks and food for all your guests. This means thinking about how many people you're hosting at your football tailgate party.
A larger group requires a bigger cooler, like the Pelican 45QT Elite or the Igloo BMX Hard Coolers 52QT. These models offer ample space for beverages and snacks, ensuring everyone stays refreshed throughout the game.
Look for durability and insulation
Choosing the right tailgate cooler means you need one that can stand up to any challenge. A durable cooler keeps your drinks and food safe during transport to the game. It also handles rough handling, like being tossed in the back of a truck or getting knocked over at a tailgate party.
The best ones have tough exteriors made from materials like hard plastic or metal. They come with secure lids that lock in cold air.
Good insulation is key for keeping everything cold until the final whistle blows. Look for coolers with thick, insulated walls and tight-sealing lids. This type ensures your ice stays frozen and your drinks stay chilled throughout the day, even when it's hot outside.
Some coolers boast ice retention times of several days, which is perfect for those weekend-long tailgates or camping trips linked to a big game.
Next, check for extra features that make tailgating more enjoyable and convenient.
Check for extra features
Extra features can set a tailgate cooler apart, especially for those attending or hosting a football tailgate party. Coolers with built-in bottle openers, cup holders, and even USB ports add convenience to your tailgating experience. If you're looking to add on additional features, be sure to read our "10 Best Cooler Accessories of 2024" post.
Some models come with integrated cutting boards and fish scales, perfect for pre-game meals or celebrating a big win.
Look for coolers that match your specific needs. If you plan on grilling, consider coolers that offer dry storage compartments for keeping buns and snacks away from the ice.
Read reviews and compare prices
Reading reviews and comparing prices are vital steps in finding the perfect tailgate cooler. People share their experiences online, which can guide you to the best choice for your next football tailgate party.
Reviews often detail how big a cooler is and its capacity, which is crucial information when planning to pack drinks and snacks for the game day crowd. They might even mention if a particular model suits collegiate environments, making it easier to pick a cooler that shows off your school spirit.
Conclusion
Picking the right tailgate cooler can make your next football party a hit. The Pelican 45QT Elite and BrüMate BrüTank stand out as top choices for 2024. Each offers unique features like superior insulation and built-in drink dispensers, making them worth considering for your tailgating needs.
Don't miss out on these coolers to keep your drinks cold and your parties hot.
