To help find you the most portable cool boxes, we tried carrying each half-filled cool box on an identical route so we could evaluate and identify any discomfort. Absorption cool boxes Similar in size and design to compressor cool boxes, but you can also power these with gas. You should look out for extra features to enjoy the best value from your cool box. Different cool boxes have a variety of additional features. Some of the features to look out for include beverage holders or wheels. If you opt for smaller or medium-sized cool boxes, go for one with a shoulder strap. Electric cool boxes Don’t require ice but they do require power. You either plug the box into your car (12V), the most common type of charger, or into the mains by a UK plug. They require constant power, though will still keep contents cool for a few hours if you unplug. You can get battery-powered boxes, but they’re less common and far more expensive.

The strong lid design also allows the cool box to double as a sturdy seat, allowing it to support loads of up to 113 kilograms. Furthermore, the upright position of the cooler makes it easy to load and store anywhere, while the handle allows for reliable carrying. The shoulder straps help relieve your hands, so you don’t get fatigued from carrying the box with your hands for a long time. Larger cool boxes, on the other hand, are sometimes fitted with side handles. This design allows two people to carry the box together. Some cool boxes are even equipped with a robust lid that doubles as a seat. To replicate getting bits in and out of the bag, we opened and closed it at regular intervals throughout the test. Built with premium insulation technology, the Coleman 28QT Xtreme Cooler can hold ice for several days to make it a perfect companion for overnight trips. With a 26 litre capacity, this cooler is smaller than the other options we’ve reviewed, and is more suited to short breaks for individuals or couples at the most.Featuring a uniquely intuitive design, the Vango Pinnacle Wheelie Cooler is designed for picnics, camping, sporting events, and similar activities where you need to keep your food and drinks chilled. Each was left outside for eight hours, with temperature readings taken every 60 minutes. Carrying comfort, usability, additional stowage, quality and price were all factors in our overall rating. Verdict The best cool boxes have features that improve portability, such as wheels and extendable handles. The worst have uncomfortable handles and are heavy to carry. Durability Size You'll generally find that cool boxes have larger capacities. You can get cool bags up to 50 litres, but if you need more consider a cool box instead.

Compressor cool boxes These top-of-the range coolers usually start at 40 litres and resemble a mini-fridge. They need plugging in, and hi-tech models are available that can be controlled with apps. When choosing the best cool box, you want to pay close attention to the insulation as well. Fillings such as those made from polyurethane offer a longer-lasting effect – which, in turn, allows the cool box to maintain low temperatures for longer. The best cool box should be made from high-quality, robust, and impact-resistant material. This allows it to survive harsh conditions and rough rides. Generally, you can find cool boxes made from plastic shells such as polyethene or those made from fabric with hard foam underneath. Different cool boxes come with varying cooling capacities. For passive cool boxes, the cooling effect is prolonged as the size increases. Typically, cool boxes maintain their effect for about 12 to 100 hours. So, you certainly want to go for a large box with at least a 2-day cooling effect for overnight camping trips. If you're into trekking, want something for the odd picnic, or to keep your lunch cool for work A cooler bag may be the way to go.Summer is the peak season for enthusiasts heading to motorsport events, car shows, or simply taking a drive out to make the most of the long days and – hopefully – warm weather. And those seeking to avoid overpriced service station sandwiches will turn to a cool box or bag to keep their homemade food fresh. The best cool boxes keep the contents chilled better for longer. The best electric cool boxes cooled the chilled bottles of water to an even lower temperature by the end of the day than when we put them in. Leakproof The Coleman 28QT can hold up to 36 standard cans of beverages and a 2-litre bottle height. In addition, the lid features two inset cup holders which offers somewhere to place a bottle or can. Unfortunately they’re not large enough to take a mug of tea.

Size is a key feature to look out for since it determines how much your cool box can support. Passive or non-electric cool boxes have a size range of between 1 L to up to 100L. For example, a 28L cool box can carry up to 36 330ml cans. A 57L cool box, on the other hand, carries up to 75 cans.When selecting the finest cool box for your next outdoor activity, there are a few factors to consider. This guarantees that you get the right cool box for your needs, regardless of size or cooling capability. We’ve created a detailed buying guide below, including all of the essential characteristics to look for.