Best Cooler Deals for Weekend Campers: 

Coolers keep food cold and drinks refreshing on weekend camping trips. You’ll find soft-sided and hard-sided styles, from lightweight backpacks to those heavy-duty roto-molded beasts.

We focus on models that hold ice well, are easy to carry, and stand up to bumps and sun. Honestly, it’s about finding something that won’t let you down when you’re out in the wild.

Buying the right cooler means balancing capacity, ice retention, weight, and price. A cooler that holds enough food for your group, keeps ice for the length of your trip, and stays light enough to carry will make your weekend camping easier.

We tested and compared several popular coolers to find the best choices for different needs and budgets. There’s no perfect answer, but we’ve found some favorites.

Best Cooler Deals for Weekend Campers

We picked coolers that balance ice retention, size, and price for short camping trips. Our list highlights options that are easy to carry, keep food cold, and fit common weekend needs.

Coleman 100QT Rolling Cooler

We recommend this cooler for weekend campers who want big capacity, easy transport, and reliable ice retention.

Pros

• Lots of room for drinks and food without heavy lifting.
• Wheels and tow handle make moving a full cooler easier.
• Lid doubles as a seat and lid cup holders keep drinks steady.

Cons

• Can be bulky and may not fit small trunks.
• Wheels can feel stiff on rough terrain.
• Heavy when fully loaded, even with wheels.

We used this cooler on a four-day trip and it held ice well enough to keep food cold through the weekend. Packing 100 quarts meant we could bring a lot of fresh food and drinks for the group without running out.

Hauling it around the campsite felt simple on paved or packed surfaces. The six-inch wheels and tow handle saved our backs, though dragging it across sand or deep gravel was tougher than expected.

Cleaning was straightforward thanks to the stain-resistant liner and the channel drain plug. We also liked sitting on the lid between meals — it felt sturdy and came in handy around the campfire.

Coleman Classic 52qt Cooler

We recommend this cooler for weekend campers who want tough insulation, simple handling, and a lid that doubles as a seat.

Pros

• Keeps ice and drinks cold for a couple of days in hot weather.
• Swing-up handles and 250 lb. seat make moving and sitting easy.
• Large capacity fits gear and drinks for a small group.

Cons

• Ice rarely lasts the full three days unless packed carefully.
• Lid closure is friction-fit and can feel less secure than latches.
• Plastic body scuffs more easily than premium models.

We took this cooler on a two-day camping trip and found it very useful. Loading it with drinks and a block of ice kept things chilled through the first day and into the second.

It’s roomy enough to hold food and drinks for a small group without feeling cramped. We liked the swing-up handles for carrying from car to campsite.

The lid felt solid enough to sit on while we cooked, and the molded cup holders stopped tumblers from tipping when we set them down. Cleaning the interior was fast thanks to the stain-resistant liner.

We noticed the ice didn’t last three full days during a hot afternoon unless we packed more ice and kept the lid closed. The closure relies on a tight fit rather than heavy-duty latches, so we took extra care during transport.

For weekend trips and tailgates, this cooler gave us solid performance at a fair price. Buy it if you want a practical, high-capacity cooler that’s easy to carry and use on short camping trips: Coleman Classic 52qt Cooler.

Ninja FrostVault 50QT

We recommend this cooler if you want strong ice retention plus a dry food drawer that actually keeps sandwiches fresh.

Pros

• Ice stayed cold for days in our tests.
• Dry Zone kept lunch items separate and not soggy.
• Tough build and solid handles made transport easy.

Cons

• Heavy to lift, even when empty.
• Drawer reduces total ice space for drinks.
• Pricier than basic coolers.

We took this cooler on a three-day trip and used the drawer for deli meat and veggies. The Dry Zone held food at fridge-like temps and stayed dry while ice melted below.

Packing felt smarter because we could grab snacks without digging through ice. The lid and latch opened easily even with one hand, which saved time at the campsite.

Hauling it around felt secure thanks to the integrated handles, but the weight is noticeable when loading into small cars. For weekend campers who want longer cold life and neat storage, this cooler worked well for us.

Coleman Xtreme 50QT Rolling Cooler

We recommend this if you want a roomy, easy-to-pull cooler that keeps drinks cold for most weekend trips.

Pros

• Wheels and telescoping handle make it easy for two people to move across sand or gravel.
• Large capacity fits a lot of beverages and ice without feeling cramped.
• Sturdy lid supports sitting, which helped when we needed extra seating at camp.

Cons

• Ice doesn’t always last five full days in hot weather; plan to top up on long trips.
• Handle and lid can feel tight or loosen over time with heavy use.
• At 50 quarts it’s bulky for smaller cars and tight trunks.

We packed this on a three-day camping trip and liked how much it held. Loading cases of drinks and a couple big ice bags was straightforward, and the rolling action saved our backs when we moved between the car and campsite.

Cold lasted longer than cheap coolers. With a big initial chill and two full bags of ice, food and drinks stayed drinkable through most of our trip.

We did add a small ice bag by day three when temperatures climbed. The lid worked well as a seat for a brief break, but one of our group noticed the handle got a bit wobbly after frequent use.

Overall, it felt durable and practical for weekend camping and beach days. Buy the Coleman Xtreme 50QT Rolling Cooler on Amazon

Igloo Glide 110Qt

This cooler works best for weekend campers who need big capacity and easy towing. It’s not the cooler for anyone wanting a lightweight lift into a packed car.

Pros

• Holds tons of food and drinks for multi-day trips.
• The wheels and telescoping handle make moving it a breeze.
• Thick insulation keeps ice longer than your standard cooler.

Cons

• When fully loaded, it’s seriously heavy—bring a friend to lift.
• Takes up a lot of trunk space.
• Definitely not as light or compact as soft coolers.

We brought this cooler on a three-day trip and packed it with ice, meat, and drinks. The glide handle saves your back and makes towing way easier.

Dragging it over gravel and campsite dirt felt smooth, thanks to the soft-ride wheels. Ice stuck around longer with big blocks and frozen food on the bottom, but it did start to melt faster if we opened it a lot.

The threaded drain plug made cleanup quick. Packing it into the car took some planning, and two people made loading much safer.

Buy it on Amazon: Igloo Maxcold Glide 110Qt Wheeled Cooler | Insulated Hard Shell Ice Chest White 168-Can

Igloo Latitude 70Qt Marine Cooler

This is a solid buy for weekend campers who want long ice life and a rugged build, but don’t want to deal with a heavy pro-style cooler.

Pros

• Holds ice for days if you prechill and pack it right.
• Sturdy enough to double as a seat and shrugs off rough use.
• Wheels and chunky handles make transport easier.

Cons

• Still bulky if your car’s already tight on space.
• Ice life depends on how often you open it and the outside heat.
• Lid and snap use both plastic and metal, which can feel a little uneven.

We brought this cooler for a three-day lake weekend and a fishing trip. It kept drinks cold, and the big block of ice we added outlasted our soft-sided coolers.

Wheels and strong handles made moving it a breeze, though you need to make room for a 70-quart box. The lid feels solid enough to sit on, which came in handy when we needed an extra seat at camp.

Opening it constantly in the heat cut down on ice life, so we tried to treat it like a pantry and only opened it when necessary. For most weekend trips, it kept things cold without any drama.

Igloo Trailmate 70QT

This cooler’s a good pick if you want rugged wheels, smart storage, and reliable ice retention for weekend adventures.

Pros

• Wheels handle sand and rough ground better than most.
• Butler tray and dry box keep things organized and out of the dirt.
• Big enough for a weekend’s worth of food and drinks.

Cons

• Gets heavy when packed full.
• Plastic bungee hooks seem fragile.
• Some units showed up with handle issues.

We dragged this cooler across a rocky path and some beach sand. Those oversized 10-inch wheels really made a difference.

The telescoping handle usually locks solid, and pulling it felt smoother than older wheeled coolers we’ve tried. The removable butler tray was super handy for keeping snacks away from the sand.

We liked the water-resistant dry box for phones and keys. Ice made it through our three-day trip as long as we kept the lid closed and left the cooler in the shade.

It does get heavy fast when loaded up. One of our handles was stiff right out of the box, so check yours early. The little bungee hooks on top look useful but seem like they could crack if you tie down anything heavy.

Coleman Marine Wheeled Cooler (100qt)

If you want heavy-duty capacity and easy wheeling for multi-day trips, this one’s worth a look.

Pros

• Super roomy for group trips and holds tons of ice.
• Wheels and handles make it easy to move over grass and gravel.
• Interior resists odors and cleans up without much work.

Cons

• Heavy when loaded, takes up car space.
• Ice life can vary—bring extra ice for hot days.
• Lid works as a seat but feels less sturdy than you’d expect.

We used this Coleman on a three-day weekend and loved how much it held. Packing for a group was simple since we could fit everything without cramming.

Hauling it across the campground was easier than we thought. The 6-inch wheels and tow handle made trips from car to tent quick, though it’s still a beast once filled.

The recessed lip let us grab drinks without tipping things over. Cleaning was easy—the antimicrobial liner cut down on smells, and the drain plug helped us empty melted water fast.

On really hot days, we needed to top off the ice sooner than the label claimed. Bring some extra if you’re heading out in the summer.

Stanley 24qt Adventure Cooler

This cooler is for weekend campers who want something lightweight and tough that keeps ice for longer trips.

Pros

• Very light for its size and easy to carry on short hikes.
• Strong enough to sit on, so it doubles as a camp seat.
• Keeps ice cold for a long time without weighing you down.

Cons

• Not the biggest capacity for longer group trips.
• Top strings can snag if you pack it loosely.
• Handle is sturdy but awkward for two people to carry together.

We took this cooler on a two-night camping trip and came away impressed. The outer shell felt solid and didn’t dent when we tossed it in the trunk.

We used it as a seat by the camp stove and it didn’t wobble. Ice lasted through warm afternoons and into the next morning, and the gasket and latches sealed tightly.

Melted water stayed inside until we used the drain plug. It was lighter than expected, which made the short walks from car to campsite easier.

Carrying was simple with the heavy-duty top handle. The little rubber strings held a bottle in place while we set up camp.

For small groups or couples wanting a rugged, easy-to-move cooler, this one really hits the mark.

Buy it on Amazon: Stanley Adventure Easy-Carry Cooler 24qt Twilight

Igloo Polar 120 Qt

If you’re a weekend camper who just wants a big, simple cooler that keeps stuff cold, this one’s worth a look. It skips fancy features but nails the basics.

Pros

• Holds ice and frozen food cold for hours, even in the heat.
• Tough plastic shrugs off stains and sun.
• Huge inside—plenty of room for group meals and drinks.

Cons

• Really heavy when full. Not kidding.
• No wheels, so moving it can be a pain.
• It’s bulky and eats up trunk space fast.

We brought this cooler on a three-day camping trip. It kept our ice solid way longer than smaller models we’ve tried.

The lid seals up tight. After a couple messy meals, the inside still wiped clean.

Getting it from the car to the site took both of us, especially after we loaded it up. The molded handles feel solid, and the tie-down loops made it easy to strap in for the drive.

We hooked up a hose to the threaded drain plug, so dumping meltwater at camp was a breeze. The white finish helped reflect some sun, but it did pick up a few scuffs after the weekend.

Buying Guide

When we shop for coolers, we care most about a few features for weekend camping. First up: capacity. Don’t buy bigger than you need, but make sure it fits all your food, drinks, and ice.

Insulation matters. Thicker walls keep ice longer, which is huge for multi-day trips.

Check the expected ice retention time and match it to your plans. No point in lugging a giant cooler if you’re only out for a night.

Weight and portability come next. Lighter coolers are easier to move, but sometimes the heavy-duty ones last longer.

Handles, wheels, and latches all change the carrying experience. If you’re solo, wheels are a lifesaver.

Materials matter, too. Hard-sided coolers stand up to bumps and animal mischief. Soft-sided ones are lighter and pack down smaller.

Pick what fits your style of camping. If you’re rough on gear, go hard-sided.

We always check the lid seal and drain setup. A good seal keeps cold in and water out. A decent drain makes end-of-trip cleanup way less annoying.

Extras can be surprisingly handy. Cup holders, built-in thermometers, lock points, or tie-downs all add a little convenience.

Price is the last piece. If you camp a lot, it makes sense to spend more for something that’ll last and keep ice longer.

Oh, and don’t forget to measure your trunk or roof space before buying. There’s nothing worse than a cooler that doesn’t fit your car.

Frequently Asked Questions

We get a lot of questions about finding discounted coolers, which brands actually give you the best value, what size works for a weekend, and how to keep food cold for a couple of days. People also want to know where to find clearance sales and how to check if a cooler really holds ice as long as it claims.

How can I find the best cooler deals specifically for weekend camping?

We watch weekly ads, sign up for email alerts, and follow outdoor brands on social for flash sales. Sometimes it’s just luck—timing matters.

We always compare specs like capacity, insulation, and drain plugs. Recent user reviews help weed out models that don’t live up to their ice claims.

Which cooler brand offers the best value for money for campers?

We like brands that balance price and performance. Yeti-style rotomolded coolers are tough but pricey, while RTIC, ORCA, and Engel often match them for less.

For soft-sided coolers, we usually pick YETI Hopper M30 alternatives like Coleman and Igloo. They offer similar features at lower prices.

What size cooler is recommended for a weekend camping trip?

For two to four people on a two- to three-day trip, 28–45 quarts usually does the trick.

Expect a 28–35 quart cooler to hold about 24–36 cans plus ice. A 45-quart model gives you extra room for meals or drinks.

Where can I find the best cooler deals with ice retention for a three-day camping trip?

We look at big-box stores like Walmart, REI, and Cabela’s, plus online sellers like Amazon and Backcountry. Brand outlets run good sales around holidays, too.

We keep an eye on late summer clearance and model-year changeovers—dealers often slash prices on last year’s stock.

How can I ensure my cooler keeps food cold for the entire duration of a weekend camp?

We always pre-chill the cooler and food, use block ice or frozen water jugs, and pack ice at the bottom and around everything to make a cold mass.

We stash the cooler in the shade, open it as little as possible, and use a separate small cooler for drinks people grab a lot.

Are there any clearance sales that offer high-quality coolers suitable for weekend camping?

We keep an eye on post-holiday sales—think Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day. Those are classic times for steep discounts.

End-of-summer clearances can surprise you too, if you’re patient.

Sometimes we dig through outlet sections on brand websites. Local store clearance racks are worth a look, especially for floor models or those oddball discontinued colors.