As the summer heat wave hits, Canadians are looking for ways to stay cool. Some people head to the beach, while others turn to their air conditioners. But what if you want to take your cooling power on the go? That’s where coolers come in handy.

There are a lot of different coolers on the market, but not all of them are created equal. Some are better at keeping things cold than others, and some are more durable. To help you find the best cooler for your needs, we’ve rounded up the best coolers in Canada for 2023.

Whether you’re looking for a small cooler to take on a picnic or a large one to keep your drinks and food cold for a long road trip, we’ve got you covered. We’ve also included a few budget-friendly options for those who don’t want to spend too much on a cooler.

So, read on to find out.

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall Hard-Sided Cooler: YETI Tundra 65 Cooler
2. Best Premium Cooler with Excellent Ice Retention: YETI Tundra Haul Portable Wheeled Cooler
3. Best Budget Cooler: Igloo BMX
4. Best Small Cooler for Day Trips: Pelican Elite 20 Quart Cooler
5. Best Canadian Owned & Designed Cooler: Emei Icebox Cooler
6. Best Lifetime High-Performance Cooler in Canada: Coleman 70 Quart Xtreme Cooler
7. Best heavy-duty cooler: Lifetime 65 Quart High-Performance Hard Cooler
8. Best Backpack cooler: YETI Hopper M20 Backpack Soft Cooler

How we tested for the best Coolers?

To find the best cooler, we put them through a series of tests. We filled each cooler with ice and water and then placed them in a variety of locations, including in the sun and in the shade. We also subjected each cooler to a variety of temperatures, both hot and cold. We then checked the temperature of the water inside the coolers at regular intervals to see how well they held up.

In addition to our own testing, we also looked at a variety of other factors, including the features each cooler offers, the materials it’s made from, and the price. We also read through a variety of customer reviews to get a sense of what people who have actually used these coolers think of them.

Based on our testing and research, we believe that the Yeti Tundra 65 is the best cooler on the market. It’s made from high-quality materials, it offers a great variety of features, and it performs extremely well in both hot and cold weather. It’s also one of the more expensive coolers, but we think it’s worth the price.

If you’re looking for a cheaper option, we like the Igloo BMX Cooler. It doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of the Yeti coolers, but it’s still a great cooler that does a good job of keeping things cold.

If you are looking for a portable cooler, the Rovr Rollr 60 Wheeled Cooler is a perfect choice. It’s large enough to hold up to 60 cans of your favorite beverage, plus ice, and has a telescoping handle and wheels for easy transport. Currently, it’s not available at Amazon.ca, but you can find it on their official website.

Here are the best coolers available in Canada

1- Best Overall Hard-Sided Cooler: YETI Tundra 65 Cooler

If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line hard-sided cooler, the YETI Tundra’s roto-molded coolers are the way to go. It’s one of the most popular coolers on the market, and for good reason. It’s incredibly well-made, with thick walls and sturdy construction. It’s also one of the best at keeping things cold, with excellent ice retention.

The YETI 65 is on the pricier side, but it’s worth the investment if you’re looking for a high-quality cooler. Its 3 inches of PermaFrost Insulation and an extra thick FatWall design make it one of the best at keeping things cold.

Specs:

• Dimensions: 77.5 x 44.5 x 40.6 centimeters
• Weight: 34 pounds
• Capacity: 65 quarts
• Insulation material: Polyethylene
• Warranty: 5 years

What we like:

• Certified Bear-Resistant design.
• T-Rex Lid rubber latches are built to withstand the elements.
• Roto molded construction is extremely durable.
• ‎65 quarts of capacity can accommodate up to 84 cans.
• One dry goods basket included.

What we don’t like:

• On the pricier side.
• No wheels for easy transport.

2- Best Premium Cooler with Excellent Ice Retention: YETI Tundra Haul Portable Wheeled Cooler

If you’re looking for the best premium cooler with excellent ice retention, then the YETI Tundra Haul Portable Cooler is the one for you. It’s made with durable materials and features a bear-resistant design, so you can be sure your food will stay fresh and cold even in the hottest of conditions.

Additionally, the YETI Haul has a comfortable carrying handle and wheels for easy transport, making it the perfect cooler for your next camping trip or picnic. Its ice retention is impressive, as is its construction.

Specs:

• Dimensions: 71.8 x 47.3 x 49.5 centimeters
• Weight: 32 Pounds
• Capacity: ‎24.95 Kilograms
• Insulation material: Polyurethane foam
• Warranty: 5 years

What we like:

• 4-5 days of ice retention.
• A durable welded aluminum arm for easy transport.
• Roto-molded construction for durability.
• Certified bear-resistant design by the international Grizzly Bear Committee.

What we don’t like:

• It’s on the expensive side.
• Not compatible with the dry storage basket.

3- Best Budget Cooler: Igloo BMX 25

The Igloo BMX is a great budget cooler because it offers a lot of features for a reasonable price. For starters, this cooler is durably constructed and features a Triple point grab handle for easy carrying. It also has a drainage spout for draining excess water and comes with Rubberized T-latches to keep the cooler secure.

We also like that the Igloo can hold up to 37 cans, making it perfect for larger groups. However, it doesn’t have wheels or a divider/tray, its other features make up for these shortcomings. If you’re looking for a great budget cooler that won’t let you down, the Igloo BMX is your best bet.

Specs:

• Dimensions: 49.8 x 33.6 x 39.9 centimeters
• Weight: 11.29 Pounds
• Capacity: ‎25 quarts
• Insulation material: Polypropylene
• Warranty: 3 years

What we like:

• Heavy-duty blow-molded construction.
• Extremely lightweight with proven 4-5 day ice retention.
• UV inhibitors protect against sun damage.
• Rust-resistant and stainless steel hinge rods for extra durability.
• Reasonable price considering its feature set.

What we don’t like:

• No wheels or divider/tray included.

4- Best Small Cooler for Day Trips: Pelican Elite 20 Quart Cooler

Pelican coolers are known for their durability and high performance, and the Elite 20 is no exception. This small cooler is perfect for day trips, whether you’re headed to the beach or the mountains. It’s well-insulated and keeps your drinks cold for hours on end. Plus, it’s tough enough to withstand the elements, whether you’re dealing with sun, sand, or snow.

The Elite 20 also has a lot of handy features, like a built-in bottle opener and a drain plug for easy cleaning. And if you’re worried about space, don’t be – this little cooler can actually hold up to 15 cans of beer. So go ahead and pack your lunch, some snacks, and all the beverages you need for a great day out.

Specs:

• Dimensions: 47.8 x 32 x 45 centimeters
• Weight: 10 pounds
• Capacity: 20 quarts
• Insulation material: Polyurethane Foam
• Warranty: Includes pelican’s legendary lifetime guarantee

What we like:

• Keeps things cold for 3-4 days.
• Leakproof drain plug for easy cleaning.
• Four self-draining cup holders.
• Built-in stainless steel bottle opener.
• Molded handle for easy carrying.
• Anti-shear hinge system for increased durability.

What we don’t like:

• Wheels would be nice for beach days.
• A bit heavy when full.

5- Best Lifetime High-Performance Cooler in Canada: Coleman 70 Quart Xtreme Cooler:

Coleman Xtreme Cooler will make sure your drinks stay cool and fresh during your next picnic, campout, or tailgate. This durable cooler can hold up to 100 cans and has a generous 70-quart capacity, making it large enough to store all the drinks and food you need for your trip.

The Xtreme Cooler also features a hinged lid with four molded cup holders on the top of the lid so you can keep your drinks close at hand. The Coleman Xtreme 5 Cooler is made from high-quality plastic that is both durable and easy to clean.

The cooler also has two-way handles for easy carrying and Have-A-Seat Lid that supports up to 250 pounds so you can use it as a chair. The cooler comes in black with gray accents and has the Coleman logo on the front.

Specs:

• Dimensions: 71.8 x 40 x 46.4 centimeters
• Weight: 12.3 Pounds
• Capacity: 70 quarts
• Insulation material: Plastic
• Warranty: Limited Lifetime Guarantee

What we like:

• 5-days of ice retention
• Leak-resistant channel drain for easy draining
• Robust and durable construction
• EZ-Clean Lid sweeps away dirt and spills
• Low CO2 insulation for reduced environmental impact

What we don’t like:

• A bit heavy to carry when full
• No wheels for easy transport
• Dividers are not included

6- Best Canadian Owned & Designed Cooler: Emei Icebox Cooler

If you’re looking for a top-quality cooler that’s Canadian-owned and designed, the Emei Icebox Cooler is a great option. This cooler is made with durable, high-quality materials, and features a sleek design that looks great on any patio or deck. The Emei Icebox Cooler also comes with a Limited Lifetime Warranty, so you can be sure it will last for years to come.

The Emei Icebox Cooler features a thick sandwiched polyurethane insulation that keeps your food and drinks cold for hours. The cooler also has integrated tie-down points, so you can easily secure it to your boat or trailer. And, anti-slide rubber feet keep the cooler in place, even on a slippery surface.

The Emei Icebox Cooler is available in three colors: white, tan, and green. And, it comes in three different sizes: 25 L, 50 L, and 70 L.

Specs:

• Dimensions: (Exterior: 66 x 40 x 42cm) (Interior: 53 x 28 x 32cm)
• Weight: 20 pounds
• Capacity: 70L Internal Volume
• Insulation material: Polyurethane
• Warranty: Limited Lifetime Guarantee

What we like:

• Metal bottle opener for easy access.
• Thick insulation keeps drinks and food cold for hours.
• Metal basket included for extra storage.
• Leak-proof screw drain plug for easy emptying.
• 70L Internal Volume is perfect for large groups.

What we don’t like:

• A new company, so not as much brand recognition
• Expensive for some people
• Wheels are not included

7- Best heavy-duty cooler: Lifetime 65 Quart High-Performance Hard Cooler:

Lifetime 65 Quart High-Performance Hard Cooler is the best cooler for those who need a reliable and durable option to keep their drinks cold. It features a high-density polyethylene construction that is UV-protected and impact resistant. The cooler can hold up to 65 quarts (61 L) of ice and has up to 8-day ice retention.

The cooler also has an IGBC-certified bear-resistant design that makes it perfect for camping and hiking in bear country. It also has a built-in bottle opener and serviceable parts for easy maintenance. The cooler is available in white and tan colors.

Specs:

• Dimensions: 72.1 x 46 x 44.5 centimeters
• Weight: 25.5 Pounds
• Capacity: 65 quarts
• Insulation material: Polyethylene
• Warranty: 5 years

What we like:

• Rope handles with padded grip for easy carrying.
• Easy-to-Drain Spout for draining and cleaning.
• Hard, durable construction.
• Fits up to 75 cans.

What we don’t like:

• Wheels are not included.
• A bit pricey.

8- Best Backpack Cooler: YETI Hopper M20 Backpack Soft Cooler

The YETI Hopper M20 backpack cooler is one of the best soft-sided coolers on the market. This backpack cooler is made with a durable, water-resistant fabric, and it features a thick layer of insulation to help keep your things cold.

The cooler itself is large enough to fit 18 cans of beer (or 26 pounds of ice), and keep ice frozen for days. The soft-sided cooler also has a large main compartment, as well as several smaller pockets for storing things like your phone, keys, and wallet. The backpack straps are adjustable, so you can make sure it fits comfortably on your back.

And if you’re worried about the backpack getting dirty, the Hopper M20 comes with a removable liner that is easy to clean. Overall, the YETI Hopper M20 is an excellent backpack cooler that is perfect for keeping your food and drinks cold during long hikes or days at the beach.

Specs:

• Dimensions: 34.9 x 25.4 x 36.8 centimeters
• Weight: 2. 8 kg
• Capacity: 19.8 liters
• Insulation material: Closed-cell foam
• Warranty: 3 years
  

  What we like:

• Powerful magnets keep the lid closed.
• COLDCELL insulation keeps things cold for days.
• Dryhide shell withstands UV rays and abrasion.
• 19.8 liters of capacity can hold 18 cans of beer.

What we don’t like:

• The price tag is a bit high.
• Some people find the magnets difficult to open.
  

  Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I buy the best coolers in Canada?

There are a few different places where you can buy coolers in Canada. Some of the most popular sites include Amazon, Walmart, and Home Depot. You can also find coolers at a variety of different online retailers.

Most brands that sell coolers also have websites where you can purchase them directly. Prices for coolers can vary depending on the size, brand, and features that you are looking for. Coolers can range in price from around $100 to $300.

How to choose a cooler?

• When choosing a cooler, the first thing you need to consider is what type of cooler will best suit your needs. There are four main types of coolers: hard-sided, soft-sided, electric, and portable.Hard coolers are the most durable and offer the best insulation, but they’re also the heaviest and most expensive. Soft coolers are lighter and cheaper but don’t offer as much protection or insulation.
• Electric coolers plug into a wall outlet and use a fan to circulate air, keeping things cool without the need for ice. They’re great for small spaces, but not ideal for long road trips.
• Portable coolers (coolers with wheels) are the most versatile, as they can be used either with or without ice. They’re perfect for picnics, tailgating, and camping trips.
• When deciding which type of cooler is right for you, consider how often you’ll be using it, what you’ll be using it for, and how much space you have available.
• Once you’ve decided on the type of cooler you need, the next step is to choose the right size. Coolers come in various sizes, from small personal coolers that can hold a few cans of soda to large rolling coolers that can hold dozens of cans or even a whole turkey.
• Think about how much food and drink you’ll need to store, and choose a cooler that’s large enough to accommodate your needs.
• Finally, consider the features you want in a cooler. Some coolers come with Wheels for easy transport, while others have built-in drains for draining melted ice water.

Take your time when choosing a cooler, and consider all of your options before making a decision. With so many coolers on the market, there’s sure to be one that’s perfect for you.

What size cooler do you need?

Depending on how many people you’re trying to feed, and for how long, you’ll need a different size cooler. A small personal-sized cooler might be fine for a short trip to the beach, but if you’re going camping for a week, you’ll need something much larger. Likewise, if you’re taking food to a potluck or picnic, you’ll need to account for how much food everyone will be bringing.

Here are some general guidelines for cooler sizes:

• Small (20 quarts): Perfect for a lunch or short trip. It can hold up to 24 cans of soda.
• Medium (30 quarts): Good for a day trip or small group. It can hold up to 51 cans of soda.
• Large (50 quarts): Perfect for a long trip or large group. It can hold up to 84 cans of soda.
• Extra Large (70+ quarts): For very long trips or very large groups. It can hold more than 100+ cans of soda.

When in doubt, it’s always better to err on the side of a larger cooler. You can always pack it less full, but if your cooler is too small, you’ll be stuck without enough food and drinks.

Conclusion

So there you have it! We’ve given you a comprehensive look at the best coolers for Canada in 2023, as well as some FAQs and a buying guide to help you make your decision. Remember, when choosing a cooler, consider how you will use it and what features are important to you. With all of that in mind, we hope you find the perfect cooler for your needs on our list.