5 Things to Know About Rotomolded Coolers

Rotomolded coolers keep ice for 5-7 days or more, while cheap coolers lose ice in 2-3 days. The thick plastic, heavy insulation, and rubber latches make the difference.

To maximize ice retention, freeze everything solid first, pre-chill the cooler, use block ice, minimize opening, and keep it in the shade. Proper prep matters more than the brand.

Yeti, RTIC, Pelican, and Orca all work similarly. Yeti is the most expensive with great customer service; RTIC is almost as good for half the price; Pelican is bombproof; Orca has a nice drain plug.

Key features to look for: thick walls (2-3 inches), freezer-grade gasket, heavy-duty replaceable latches, a molded-in drain plug, and tie-down points. Avoid coolers with wheels—they are less durable and waste space.

For a group of 4-5, choose a 45-65 quart size that fits your boat. Your trip will be better when day 6 still has cold beer.