The 13 Best Beach Coolers in 2024, Tested by Gear Editors

Volume: Your beach cooler should hold at least a six pack, but depending on the amount of time you plan on spending out on the sand, and what you plan on bringing (food and drinks, or just food?), then you'll want to pay closer attention to volume specifics. This prior notion is why we listed two cooler backpacks: one that holds 20L and another that holds 33L. A 20L will certainly pack a lot of drinks, but a 33L gives you that extra room to add either more beverages or add snacks and food on top of your drinks.

Special features: Special features can be a lifesaver if you're going to be wearing or hauling anything. For example, the Igloo Trailmate Journey has features like butler trays, tie-down hooks for bungee cords, and a lockable water-resistant storage container for phones and personal items. These features will certainly help elevate your beach hangout and offer a much more seamless process of getting all your gear to the shore.

Types of Use: You obviously want a cooler that's portable, You also want to look for durability and insulation. All of the beach coolers above will sustain coldness for an entire afternoon and longer, plus they can get banged up and be fine. The trick to looking at durability and design though, is determining when you need to upgrade or boost your overall investment. If you are only looking for a cooler that can hold mostly drinks and a few snacks (and for only a few hours at a time) then you can get away with a cooler under $100—like our favorite mid-sized cooler, the Coleman 316 Series. But if you plan on trips like a full day affair with lunch and all, an overnight camping trip, or an adventure to a remote beach spot, then a roller cooler that's bigger in capacity (and yes, more expensive) should be considered. You don't want to throw your back out carrying out your beach cooler.