Best cooler for ATV: Perfect for Offroad Riding
Accessories Guide
If you love riding your ATV, then you know how important it is to have the best cooler for your offroad rides. Whether you are driving through the desert or just going on a quick ride around town, there are many benefits of using a cooler for ATV. A rotomolded cooler with a thick wall is essential if you take some beverages and snacks with you but don’t want them to get hot or cold too quickly.
This article is perfect for learning about the best types of coolers, reviews, and mounting options for your vehicle. Read on and discover the essential aspects of your ATV cooler.
This cooler provides superior insulation to its competitors. This cooler is weatherproof.
With its small size, the Flip 12 is convenient to carry and has a high storage capacity.
While this cooler does not have many bells and whistles, its durability makes up for its lack of storage
Its drain plug includes a tethered sealing lid to ensure that no spills or leaks will happen during transport.
In This Article
Defination
What is an ATV cooler?
An ATV cooler is a compartment that you mount to your machine that helps to keep ice, enabling your drink and food to stay chilly while you are on the go. The best cooler for ATV riding is perfect for rides through the desert or countryside, as it has an insulated layer to keep everything at a consistent temperature.
There are many different coolers on the market that you can use. It is essential to consider the size of your cooler. You can opt for a small or bigger one depending on your needs. If you plan to take your ATV on longer rides, then it is best to go for a larger one so that there will still be some ice left once you return from your adventure. However, you need to check that the big cooler does not obstruct your view when driving.
You also need to consider its functionality. For instance, how many cans does it hold, and is the lid tight enough to prevent spills? Does it have cup holders, bottle openers, and even storage compartments? These features enable you to take everything you need on your ride without having to worry about packing a lot of extra gear.
You also need to check how you will mount it on your vehicle. It is best to buy a cooler that fits securely on your vehicle and is easy to attach and remove. It should also be of high quality and durable to offer you the best results and value for your money.
Reviews
Top 5 ATV Coolers- Reviews
Here we review the top 5 ATV Coolers in the market based on comfort, durability, budget, and quality. Check out our details product features and other information which will help you to decide the suitable one.
1. YETI Tundra 65 Cooler
When it comes to maintaining your catch cold in the field, the YETI Tundra 65 is unsurpassed. It can also be used to store beverages and food for a backyard barbeque party. This ice chest is roomy, holding up to 150 gallons, and features 3 inches of PermaFrost Insulation and a FatWall design that is certified Bear-Resistant. Because of the Rotomolded Construction, the Tundra is entirely fortified, assuring that your cooler will survive for many years. This model also has a few convenient extras, including a T-Latch, which makes locking the lid down as easy as pressing a button, tie-downs for securing your cooler in the back of your truck, and an Integrated Cutting Board that is perfect for serving up snacks. The YETI Tundra 65 Cooler has been tested in extreme conditions, making it perfect for hunters, anglers, and outdoorsmen that want the best ice chest on the market.
- The YETI Tundra 65 is just as adept at keeping your catches cold in the field as it is storing the drinks and food for your backyard barbecue, this ice chest is plenty roomy, holding a limit of redfish or your prized brisket
- Ice stays ice thanks to up to 3 inches of PermaFrost Insulation and an extra thick FatWall design is certified Bear-Resistant
- The Rotomolded Construction makes the Tundra armored to the core and virtually indestructible so wherever you decide to take it, this portable cooler’s sturdy construction will stand up to the rigors of the journey
- All Tundra coolers feature T-Rex Lid Latches constructed of heavy-duty rubber so you’ll never see another busted latch and has patented keeper technology
- The Tundra 65 dimensions are 30 1/2 in long x 17 1/2 in wide x 16 in high with an empty weight of 29 lbs NOTE: All Tundra models come standard with one dry goods basket.
pros
- Easy to clean inside smooth walls.
- Handy as a step stool when needed.
- Like other YETI items, it keeps colder than competitors.
- The perfect seat height and textured lid.
Cons
- This 35-pound cooler is heavy to transport.
- Consistently costly, as expected from YETI.
bottom line
The YETI Tundra 65 Cooler is meant to be your final purchase. This cooler delivers insulating on a level that rivals can’t even match. This cooler is built to withstand the elements.
2. YETI Hopper Flip 12 Portable Soft Cooler
The YETI Hopper Flip 12 Portable Soft Cooler is perfect for keeping your food and drinks cold on long days out in the wilderness. It is constructed with ColdCell Insulation, which provides greater cold-holding performance compared to standard softer coolers, and a DryHide Shell, which is watertight and immune to punctures and abrasions while remaining lightweight. The Hopper Flip 12 is the only portable cooler that can hold up to 12 cans plus ice and is suitable for entire days in the tree stands, daytime, or late nights. There are also two D-ring tie-down points for strapping your Hopper to your boat, backpack, or golf cart. Locking leakproof zippers keep the cold in and allow you to store wet items like fish or fruit. A FreezeCell Insert can be added for extra insulation power when needed and separates for easy cleanup.
- The Hopper Flip 12 has ColdCell Insulation, a closed-cell foam that offers superior cold-holding to ordinary soft coolers, with a capacity of up to 12 cans plus ice
- Features a 100% leakproof HydroLok Zipper and high-density fabric that withstands punctures and UV rays
- Its DryHide Shell is waterproof and resistant to punctures, and abrasions so it will hold its own when faced with the hazards of the wild
- The only personal cooler that’s game for full days in the tree stand, early mornings in the duck boat, or afternoons on the water
- The Hopper Flip 12 dimensions are 12 5/8 in long x 10 in wide x 11 ½ in high and an empty weight of 3.1 lbs
pros
- Very long-lasting.
- Simple to use.
- Excellent insulation.
- Size is handy.
Cons
- Expensive.
- There are no additional pockets
- Flips over very quickly.
bottom line
It is also built to last a long time. When you’re able to relax and sip your favorite beverages without a care in the world, the hefty price they charge is well justified.
3. RTIC Hard Cooler
The RTIC 20 is a versatile mobile cooler that can be used in any number of ways. This cooler does have a capacity of 20 cans, allowing you to enjoy the great outdoors while yet maintaining the comforts of home. It will be unnecessary to worry about your ice melting because of the 3-inch foam insulating walls and the cool-lift design feature. Use the heavy-duty rope handles to take this cooler anywhere and when you need an extra hand—this cooler doubles as a step stool, tabletop, or cutting board. Temperature retention is no longer an issue with this. Its exclusive Therma Lock Gasket keeps cold in and heats out, ensuring your food and drinks remain frozen for up to 10 days!
- 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.
pros
- Excellent Value.
- Design Is Simple.
- Both sides have drain plugs.
Cons
- The drain plug is not connected to the cooler.
- T-straps might break after a long period of use.
bottom line
For someone who doesn’t necessarily need a lot of storage space, this cooler will get the job done!
4. YETI Tundra 35 Cooler
The YETI Tundra 35 is the perfect size for a solo adventure or a small group. With up to 3 inches of PermaFrost Insulating and an even more thick FatWall construction that is certified Bear-Resistant, this portable cooler can store up to 20 cans with such a 2:1 ice-to-contents ratio and keep them cold. The Tundra is nearly unbreakable because of the Rotomolded Construction, which provides complete armor protection, so you can take it wherever your next expedition takes you. Your drinks will remain ice-cold with the No Sweat Design. This portable cooler has a 3″ drain plug with a leakproof design so you can empty it without having to worry about leaks or spills.
- The YETI Tundra 35 is portable enough for one person to haul while still having an impressive carrying capacity of up to 20 cans with a recommended 2:1 ice-to-contents ratio
- Ice stays ice thanks to up to 3 inches of PermaFrost Insulation and an extra thick FatWall design is certified Bear-Resistant
- The Rotomolded Construction makes the Tundra armored to the core and virtually indestructible so wherever you decide to take it, this portable cooler’s sturdy construction will stand up to the rigors of the journey
- All Tundra coolers feature T-Rex Lid Latches constructed of heavy-duty rubber so you’ll never see another busted latch and has patented keeper technology
- The Tundra 35 dimensions are 21 3/8 in long x 16 1/8 in wide x 15 3/4 in high with an empty weight of 20 lbs NOTE: All Tundra models come standard with one dry goods basket
pros
- It can keep ice for days.
- Long enough to be passed down down the generations.
- The perfect size for a weekend.
- Really amazing, with a variety of colors to choose from.
Cons
- If the plug is not properly adjusted, it has a propensity to leak.
- It's a heavy cooler, for sure.
bottom line
The YETI Tundra 35 is a very aesthetically pleasing and functional cooler. Made of rotomolded plastic, this cooler has rustproof aluminum latches and hinges and 100% leak-proof welded construction.
5. Can-am 4.2 Gal (16 L) Cooler 295100698
This Can-am/ Ski-doo/ Sea-doo LinQ 4.2 Gal (16 L) Cooler is the perfect way to keep your drinks and food cold while out on the water. For outstanding stiffness and longevity, the cooler is built of rotomolded construction, and it has already been marinized to be used in saltwater environments. It mounts easily to any LinQ Base Kit, making it simple, fast, and secure to use. The cooler’s 17″H x 13.5″W x 8.1″ D dimensions provide just the right amount of storage space, and its thoughtful design allows for easy access to your food or drinks with a one-handed push button lid opening. It includes built-in non-skid feet so it won’t budge as you dock it to shore, and can be secured in place by removing those same feet if desired.
- Secure, easily installed LinQ-mounted cooler. Premium foam insulation holds ice up to five days.
- Durable rotomolded rigid construction. Sealed lid for airtight, weather-tight closure.
- Heavy duty T-Handle latches resistant to marine environments.
- Marinized hardware suited for saltwater applications.
- Note: Cannot be mounted on the LinQ Stackable Fuel Caddy.
pros
- Great quality.
- Holds ice for about a day and a half.
Cons
- These coolers can be difficult to lock and unlock.
- It is not quite as big as the other models.
bottom line
It has a quick-release mounting system to help you get on your way quickly and easily, allowing you more time for fishing or boating instead of fiddling with hardware installation.
Types
Types of ATV Cooler
There are different types of ATV coolers on the market, so it can be hard to decide which one is best for you and your needs. To make the perfect decision, you need information on the types of coolers and their functions. That way, you can make a more informed decision that you will be proud of in a long time.
There are three main types of coolers: Soft-sided, hard-sided and electric coolers. Let us discuss each one of them for a better understanding of their features and functionality.
Soft-sided Coolers
The soft-sided coolers are made from a light material and are foldable, making them convenient for travel. Some of the best soft cooler for ATV include the RTIC cooler bag, YETI Tundra Hopper Two, Polaris Northstar cooler bag, and the Kolpin ATV Soft-Sided Cooler.
Soft-sided UTV coolers usually have zipper closures that enable you to quickly access your drink. However, they can be easily damaged by sharp objects such as rocks or sticks in the mud. They also have low insulation and are not suitable for long rides. Therefore, they are perfect for short trips or if you just need something to keep your snack pack cool for a few hours.
Hard-Sided Coolers
Most hard-sided coolers are rotomolded and from sturdy materials, such as metal or plastic, and usually have a carrying handle on top. They offer high insulation to keep your food and drink chilly for hours. When purchasing this cooler, you need to consider the size and the padding. The insulation is measured in quarts and is the amount of ice that the cooler can hold. It is vital to get one with a high cooling capacity if you plan to take it on long rides. Examples of hard-sided coolers are the YETI Tundra, ORCA 58 Quart Cooler, Polaris Northstar cooler, and Engel 39QT Fridge/Freezer.
The hard-sided coolers can withstand outdoor conditions such as rain or snow. However, they can be quite heavy and bulky when filled with ice and drinks, which makes it difficult to store them on your ATV.
Electric Coolers
These coolers are unique due to their electric power source. They are perfect for long rides as they keep your drink cold for extended periods. Some models even come with a built-in battery that will charge while you are driving, so you don’t have to worry about running out of power. It keeps its contents chilly even after the loss of power, enabling you to monitor the temperature from your smartphone.
The electric coolers also have high insulation and are sturdy. However, they can be quite expensive and are not as portable as soft-sided or hard-sided coolers. In addition, they can be difficult to clean when the fan blades may accumulate dirt over time.
Dimensions
The coolers' dimensions
The dimensions of the cooler determine whether it will fit on your ATV. You need to find a cooler that is the right size and shape for your vehicle. If you have a large UTV, then you can choose a larger cooler such as the ORCA 58 Quart Cooler or Engel 39QT Fridge/Freezer. However, if you have a smaller ATV, then you will need to purchase a cooler that is more compact and easier to store, such as the YETI Hopper Two or Kolpin ATV Soft-Sided Cooler. A cooler that does not fit on your rear rack is not suitable. It cannot be secured and will rattle as you drive, making it very distracting.
The size of the cooler also determines the quantity of food and beverages that you can carry for your trip. The size of the coolers is measured in quarts and ranges from small (20 quarts) to large (100 quarts). If you are going on a long trip, then you will need a cooler that can hold more items. If you are just taking a short trip, then a smaller cooler is perfect. Some coolers have compartments, so you can keep your drinks and snacks separate.
Therefore, you need to determine the items you intend to carry to enable you to make the best choice. Selecting a cooler with the perfect dimensions allows you to carry all the items you need in one place, reducing the quantity of luggage. It also prevents them from piling against each other and getting damaged.
Guide
Buying Guide
Toughness
The toughness of a cooler is an excellent feature to consider when selecting the best for your ATV/UTV. You need to invest in a rotomolded product that can withstand outdoor elements such as rain, snow, and direct sunlight. The good news is there are coolers with tough exteriors made from stainless steel or plastic materials like polyethylene (PE), which make them very durable. They will not crack when exposed to icy temperatures or break if frozen water is used to cool them.
Some of the tough exteriors are also waterproof, preventing contents from getting wet if it is exposed to rain or snowfall. Therefore, you don’t have to worry about water damage even when transporting beverages that might spill during your ride due to rough terrain or sudden movements.
Insulation
You do not want a cooler that does not have sufficient ice retention to keep your food pack cold. That is why insulation is a vital factor to consider. It prevents the loss of cool air and keeps contents chilly for extended periods. It is measured in R-value, which is a standard unit of measurement for thermal resistance. Some coolers keep contents icy for a short period, while others can keep them for up to five days.
The best coolers have an R-value of 12 or more, making them perfect for long trips to keep beverages ice cold. The electric ones are also able to maintain a low temperature even after the loss of power. Excellent cooling enables you to continue enjoying your chilly drinks and snacks without having to worry about them going bad or getting hot.
Portability and convenience
The portability of a cooler is another essential feature when selecting coolers for ATVs and UTVs. You need to find one that is easy to carry and transport from one place to another. The weight and size of the cooler are key factors when assessing portability. A lightweight and compact cooler are easy to carry around, even when full.
Some coolers have straps that make them easier to carry, while others come with wheels for transportation. The convenience of a cooler also comes down to its features.
Other features
Lockability is another key feature to look for in a cooler. The lock also secures the contents and keeps them cold, making it ideal for long trips. Also, it prevents people from stealing the contents while you are away from your vehicle.
Anchoring systems prevent the cooler from bouncing around or tipping over when traveling on rough terrain. It is an excellent feature to look for if you are planning on taking your cooler off-road.
Built-in cup holders enable you to carry your beverage within easy reach. They are perfect for keeping you hydrated throughout the day and reducing the number of items you carry with you.
Another feature to consider is the availability of replacement parts in case of damage. The best coolers have a wide range of replacement parts available, making it easy to fix them when they break down.
Video Credit – 2brothersadventures
Mounting Options for ATV Coolers
Factory Ready Cooler Boxes
A cooler box is made for a specific ATV/UTV, and you cannot use it on other makes and models. It fits a particular brand and model of ATV and usually comes with all the necessary mounting brackets, hardware, and instructions. It can be expensive, but it is a perfect fit and very easy to install. The only disadvantage is that you cannot mount them on other vehicles. Some of them include the Polaris RZR XP 1000, the Yamaha Grizzly 700, and the Honda Talon.
LinQ System
LinQ system is a customizable storage system that is available for different ATVs and UTVs. It enables you to mount various accessory racks, drawers, and other accessories on your vehicle’s roof or around the bed of your truck. You can also add more LinQ components as needed according to specific needs without having to purchase another complete setup. It is slightly costly but very versatile and user-friendly, enabling you to realize a return on investment.
Rack Cargo Basket Carrier
Rack cargo basket carrier, as the name suggests, is a basket that can be mounted on the rack of your ATV/UTV. It is relatively cheap and easy to install, making it ideal for people who want something basic but affordable. You simply attach it to the top of your vehicle’s frame using straps or bungee cords, and you are ready to go. The only challenge with this carrier is that it may rattle or sway, making its contents spillover. However, you can prevent this by using a net. You can use them with baskets, racks, roll bars, bed liners, or barebones ATVs without having to drill or weld any attachments.
Tie Down Strap Kits
Tie-down straps are another option for mounting a cooler on your ATV. You can buy them separately or purchase a complete set that comes with the straps and hardware to mount them. They are universal, therefore, suitable for a wide range of ATVs and UTVs without any drilling required. The only downside is that they may not be able to accommodate larger coolers due to their width limitations. Finding one that fits perfectly, especially if you have an aftermarket bumper installed on your vehicle’s frame, is challenging.
FAQ
FAQ
Where can I get ATV Coolers?
You can get coolers from most major retailers that stock ATV accessories. You can also get them online from the Amazon website or other reputable vendors who specialize in selling outdoor equipment. You need to consider purchasing your cooler from a reputable vendor to ensure that you get durable products. They should provide you with a warranty in case of any manufacturer’s defects and assure you of getting spare parts in case of damages.
What’s the best way to secure a cooler on an ATV?
There are a variety of ways that you can secure a cooler on an ATV. The most popular methods include using tie-down straps, rack cargo basket carriers, and factory-ready boxes. You can use tie-down straps to secure a cooler that does not have any mounting brackets, while the rack basket carrier is ideal for those who want something basic and affordable. The factory-ready ones are perfect for people who want a perfect fit for a specific brand and easy installation. You can also use the LinQ system for a cooler that securely mounts on your ATV’s roof or around the bed of a truck.
You need to consider the size and weight of your cooler when selecting the best way to mount it. The brand/model of your ATV and your budget are also essential factors to take into consideration.
What can I do to make my ATV Cooler more comfortable?
To make your UTV coolers more comfortable, you need to ensure that it is properly secured and does not move around when you are riding. You can do this by adding box nets over the cooler or using tie-down straps that provide a secure fit for your vehicle’s frame. It will reduce any rattling noise as well as prevent spills due to movement during bumpy rides.
You can also use a cooler with a padded lid to provide extra comfort when you are using it as a seat. It helps to insulate your food pack and drink from the hot sun while providing extra space to store your belongings.
Finally, consider purchasing an ATV cooler that comes with built-in cup holders or ice chests. These enable you to have easy access to your chilled beverages and snacks.
What kind of cooler is used on an ATV?
There are different kinds of ATV coolers depending on your needs and preferences. You can get an aftermarket rotomolded cooler that’s designed to fit around or on your ATV’s bed, roof or frame perfectly. Hence providing durability and optimal insulation for the contents. There are also universal coolers available which you can attach using bungee cords, tie-down straps, or other mounting systems without the need for drilling or welding. These are perfect for those who want a versatile and affordable cooler that can be used on different types of ATVs.
You can also get factory-made coolers. They are specifically designed to fit certain brands of ATV/UTV, and they come with pre-drilled holes and mounting brackets for easy installation. The coolers provide extra insulation and sufficient storage capacity.
Verdict
Conclusion
An excellent cooler for your ATV/UTV keeps your drinks and food pack cold for hours during your road trips. You need to consider the size, brand, insulation capacity, and mounting systems of a cooler before buying it. The cooler you choose should also be affordable to meet your budget requirements. It should provide maximum protection against heat, dust, dirt, and other environmental factors. All the best coolers come with a warranty to ensure that you are fully satisfied with the product.
Author
About the Author
Eric Riley
Eric Riley is a true ATV enthusiast. He has been using ATVs for years and knows his way around them like the back of his hand. He’s passionate about what he does, and loves sharing that passion with other people who are interested in learning more or buying their first ATV.
