When it’s getting hot out there! When temperatures soar through the summer, especially if you’re taking an extended trip in your RV, one of the most important aspects of staying safe and comfortable is ensuring your food stays cool and fresh. Plus, an ice-cold beverage helps you cool off when you’re ready to chill at the campsite. Fortunately, coolers have evolved over the years,
and they’re more convenient and efficient in keeping perishables fresh and your drinks ice cold.
coolers A Brief History
Portable coolers, at least in concept, date back to ancient times. But the modern coolers we know and love began to take shape in the mid-20th century. Coolers started out as simple metal or wooden boxes insulated with ice to keep the contents cold. There have been numerous advancements in materials and technologies over the decades, leading to the development of the popular, durable, and well-insulated coolers we find today.
Cooler Technology
Coolers and advanced technology? You better believe it. Coolers used to be made with basic foam for insulation. Today’s high-end models, in contrast, use advanced materials like polyurethane foam, which is superior for long-lasting insulation. The interior of coolers isn’t the only change. Modern coolers are built with more rugged designs and materials to withstand harsh conditions. For instance, rotomolded construction makes some coolers virtually indestructible and ideal for outdoor and RV adventures.
Features, too, have advanced. Some contemporary coolers can be found with integrated wheels and convenient handles, so they’re easier to maneuver, or cup holders and built-in bottle openers, adding greater convenience at the campsite. Some high-tech models even include electronic temperature control or solar charging capabilities. Heck, you can even find coolers that can charge your electronic devices. Some of the most notable advancements in cooler design include:
ROTOMOLDED COOLERS
This process creates seamless, highly durable containers that provide exceptional ice retention. So, they’re perfect for long trips or extended boondocking.
ELECTRIC COOLERS
You can forget the ice (and dealing with the water once it’s melted) by using coolers that are powered by 12-volt car adapters or solar panels. You can still keep all the contents of the cooler cold. And you can even control the temperature.
SMART COOLERS:
If you’re a tech person or just want a cooler that’s more than a cooler, you can find advanced options that integrate Bluetooth and Wi-Fi technology so you can monitor and control the temperatures remotely (e.g., to get those drinks ice cold as you approach your RV after a hike, bike ride, or day on the lake). Again, some models can be used to charge electronic devices.
Choosing the Right Cooler for You
There are so many coolers to choose from. You can even find some of the old-school options your parents or even grandparents would find familiar. Some popular modern models that are worth
taking a look at include.
THE YETI TUNDRA SERIES:
Yeti is a well-known, high-end brand that’s set a new standard in coolers. The Tundra is their flagship and is renowned for its durability and ice retention. They’re ideal for RVers who are looking for reliable, long-lasting cooling in rough environments.
+PROS:
• Exceptional insulation with up to 2 inches of polyurethane foam.
• Rotomolded construction for long-lasting durability.
• Robust latches and hinges designed to deter even bears.
-CONS:
• Yetis are high-end, with a price to match.
• All of that construction also increases the weight, so they’re less portable.
• The weight and placement, especially when loaded, need to be considered when you’re loading your RV.
IGLOO MAXCOLD SERIES
Igloo has been a staple in the cooler market for decades. The MaxCold series provides great performance. Yet the price is more affordable. So, these coolers offer a good balance of performance and value and are more attainable for budget-conscious RVers.
+PROS:
• Widely available and more easily affordable.
• Extended ice retention with extra insulation.
• Lightweight and easier to carry
-CONS:
• Less durable than rotomolded options.
• Less ice retention compared to more high-end brands like Yeti.
RTIC HARD COOLERS
RTIC is known for its high quality and competitive prices. These durable coolers also provide long-lasting ice retention. When compared to Yeti coolers, customers like the similar performance
without the premium price tag.
+PROS:
• Rotomolded construction (similar to Yeti), which offers excellent durability.
• Superior ice retention capabilities.
• More competitive pricing than other high-end models.
-CONS:
• The increased durability also means they’re heavier and less portable.
• The color and accessory options are somewhat limited.
DOMETIC CFX3 SERIES
A leader in mobile living solutions, the CFX3 series is the latest in portable refrigeration technology. If you’re looking for consistent cooling and are willing to make the investment for an electric solution, the Dometic coolers provide convenience and performance.
+PROS:
• No need for ice.
• Precise temperature control.
• Can be powered by your vehicle or with solar panels.
-CONS:
• The initial cost is significantly higher than for a traditional cooler.
• All the models require a power source to operate.
