Organizing items inside an outdoor cooler is essential to make the most efficient use of space and keep everything easily accessible. Here are some tips on how to do it:
- Categorize items: Before packing the cooler, categorize your items into groups such as beverages, fruits, vegetables, condiments, and meats. This will help you pack and find items more quickly.
- Layering: Start by placing a layer of ice or ice packs at the bottom of the cooler to ensure the contents stay cold. Then, begin with the items that you will need last, like raw meats, and place them at the bottom to avoid cross-contamination.
- Insulation: Use insulating materials like blankets or towels to provide an additional layer of insulation inside the cooler. This helps maintain the temperature and prevent items from shifting during transportation.
- Space optimization: Utilize the available space wisely. Fill any gaps with additional ice packs or ice to ensure consistent cooling and minimize air pockets that can lead to temperature fluctuation.
- Proper packaging: Package items properly to prevent leaks or spills. Seal liquids in airtight containers or zipper bags, and use sealed plastic bags to contain any potential mess.
- Accessibility: Place frequently needed items, like drinks or snacks, near the top or in a separate compartment for easy access without having to dig through the cooler.
- Group similar items: Group items together based on usage. For example, keep all beverage bottles together or group cold cuts and cheeses in one section. This way, you can easily locate what you need without disturbing other items.
- Temperature-sensitive items: Keep items that are more sensitive to temperature fluctuations, such as dairy products or perishable fruits, closer to the ice source to ensure they stay cool for longer.
Remember to secure the lid tightly to keep the cooler insulated and maintain the temperature. By following these tips, you can efficiently organize your items inside an outdoor cooler for a well-managed and hassle-free experience.
Best Outdoor Coolers of 2025
1
Rating is 5 out of 5
Permasteel 80-Quart Outdoor Patio Cooler with Wheels | Beverage Rolling Cooler for Backyard Deck, PS-A205-80QT-BR, Wood Grain Accent, Brown
-
LARGE 80-QUART CAPACITY – The Permasteel outdoor cooler for patio and deck offers plenty of space to store up to 110 12-oz cans or 50 bottles plus extra room for ice
-
DRINKS STAY COLD FOR UP 36 HOURS – Keep beverages chilled longer with this Permasteel outdoor beverage cooler when combined with ice packs and cold cubes - perfect for beer, juices, soda, water, and other refreshing drinks and beverages
-
FULLY REMOVABLE FLIP-TOP LID FOR QUICK & EASY ACCESS - Easily lift open the outdoor bar cooler half-way for instant access or remove the top completely
-
EASY TO ASSEMBLE – Simple set up means you’ll be up and running with the Permasteel stand up cooler as soon as 10-15 minutes to host friends and family with cold drinks in your backyard, deck, patio, or porch
-
EXTRA FEATURES & US-BASED SUPPORT – This outdoor cooler on wheels also come with an integrated, built-in bottle opener and cap catcher, drain plug, bottom shelf for additional storage, and customer service support from the US
2
Rating is 4.9 out of 5
Permasteel 80-Qt Classic Outdoor Patio Cooler for Outside Beverage Rolling Cooler Bar Cart with Wheels & Handles, Retro Design, Blue
-
COOL OFF THIS SUMMER WITH A CLASSIC RETRO STYLE COOLER - The Permasteel 80-Qt Classic Retro Style Outdoor Patio Cooler is perfect for keeping your drinks cold at all your summer parties! Made with elegant powder-coated steel, this outside cooler is well constructed with an insulated basin to keep your beverages cold for up to 36 hours.
-
RELAX & ENTERTAIN – Have friends over for a BBQ or outdoor party and keep drinks cold in this stylish 80-quart cooler. The integrated bottle opener makes it easy to open cold drinks without having to search for a separate utensil, while the cap catcher ensures you won't lose any caps.
-
110 CAN CAPACITY – This outdoor drink cooler can hold up to 110 12-oz cans, so you can easily entertain a large crowd.
-
EASILY ACCESS YOUR COLD DRINKS WITH THE FULLY REMOVABLE SPLIT DOUBLE-HINGED LID - No need to miss any of the fun! The fully removable lid makes it easy to access your cold drinks.
-
MOVE YOUR OUTDOOR DRINK COOLER AROUND WITH EASE - With four heavy-duty casters, it’s easy to move your outdoor drink cooler around from party to party.
3
Rating is 4.8 out of 5
Rustic Outdoor Beverage Cooler for Patio - 45 Qt. - Rustic Brown
-
Fully insulated to keep drinks cold longer!
-
Side handles make this very easy to transport, even when full!
-
45 Quart capacity holds approximately 45 cans and Ice
-
Includes drainage spout and bottle opener
-
Easily prop the lid open so that you can grab drinks with only one hand free
4
Rating is 4.7 out of 5
Cuisinart CCC-3517 Portable 80-Quart Outdoor Cooler Cart with Dual-Sided Lid, BBQ Cart with Bottle Opener (Fits 100 Cans or 50 Bottles)
-
80 QT. CAPACITY: Cooler fits up to 100 cans or 50 bottles at a time with ice and keeps drinks cold for up to 48 hours
-
DUAL-SIDED LID: Allows for quick and easy access inside the cooler, minimizing the amount of time the lid remains open
-
BOTTLE OPENER: Easily open drinks from the cooler while the caps collect in the catcher below
-
4 WHEELS: Easily position the cooler in the perfect shady spot in your backyard, allowing you to keep your drinks cooler for longer
5
Rating is 4.6 out of 5
EDOSTORY 80 Quart Black Rolling Ice Chest Cooler Cart,Patio Backyard Party Drink Beverage Bar Stand Up Cooler Trolley with Ice Scoop
-
[Keep Cool and Warm]: keep a variety of drinks for a longer duration, such as wine, beer and beverages. Keep cool for 24 hrs, keep warm for 8hrs and keep the temperature difference less than 10℃ in 8 hours
-
[Large capacity]:Our cooler is 80 Quart / 20 Gallon capacity,Can store up to 100+ cans or 55+ bottles.suit for patio, backyard or any outdoor leisure occasion, such as dinner party, BBQ or backyard party. Have a nice weekend with your family and your friends
-
[Convenient Design]:4 multi directional rolling wheels – rotates 360 for easy transportation,Bottle Openers can easily Open bottle cap,2 fold back lids offer easy access from either side.
-
[ice scoop]:This cooler have a ice scooper to help you shoveling ice cubes.
-
[Durable construction]: our cooler interior of our cooler cart is PP lined injection-foam-unitized without smell.exterior is made by iron which can Can withstand minor external impacts.
6
Rating is 4.5 out of 5
Permasteel 80-Qt Antique Patio Cooler for Outside | Outdoor Beverage Cooler Bar Cart, Rolling Cooler with Wheels and Handles, Wooden Teak Accent, Black
-
80-QUART STORAGE CAPACITY – This teak wood-accented outdoor patio cooler offers plenty of space for up to 110 12-oz soda, beer, or other beverage drink cans plus ice
-
DRINKS STAY COLD FOR UP TO 36 HOURS - Host and entertain guests at your party knowing that your drinks will stay cold and within reach. The rustic style of this Permasteel outdoor bar cart will make your family event or get-together stand out. This outdoor patio cooler on wheels will definitely be an eye-catcher at your parties.
-
CONVENIENT & PORTABLE – The Permasteel outdoor rolling cooler comes with 4 heavy-duty caster wheels and handles to make it simple and easy to move the patio cooler as needed. Two of the casters can be secured in a lock position for stability when needed.
-
SPLIT HINGED LID – The Permasteel outdoor cooler makes it simple to open the top to grab a drink without having to remove the enter lid
-
BOTTOM SHELF RACK FOR ADDITIONAL STORAGE – Designed to provide extra space to store additional drinks—cases of beer, soda, or other alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages. Or can be used for plates, napkins, utensils, etc.
7
Rating is 4.4 out of 5
Keter Pacific Cool Bar Outdoor Patio Furniture and Hot Tub Side Table with 7.5 Gallon Beer and Wine Cooler, Grey
-
OUTDOOR BAR TABLE: Elevate your next gameday party. This portable bar table allows your guests to grab chilled beverages while never being far from any of the action.
-
POP UP BAR & HIDDEN COOLER: Lid elevates upwards 10 inches above the rim for use as a patio bar table. The top reveals a hidden cooler with 7.5-gallon capacity. Keep up to forty 12 oz. cans ice cold.
-
VERSATILE USE: When not being used as a party bar, shut the top and use as a patio coffee table. When elevated, it is the ideal height for use as a hot tub table so you will always have a spot for your drink, snacks, and phone.
-
ALL-WEATHER-RESISTANT: Unlike real rattan and wicker, the thick exterior resin prevents rusting, peeling, and denting in all weather conditions, rain, or shine.
-
EASY CLEANUP & LOW MAINTENANCE: Built in drainage plug makes cleanup a breeze. After the party is over and the ice is melted, simply pull the plug to drain the cooler and let it dry before putting it away until next time.
-
GIFTS FOR DAD: The perfect gift and outdoor bar set accessory for the #1 BBQ Grill Master in your life. It is the ultimate sidekick to his outdoor kitchen.
-
BETTER WITH KETER: We are driven to invent. We create lifestyle solutions for use in and around the home in ways only we can. We design using sustainable and innovative technologies to create products that enhance people’s spaces and elevate their experiences.
8
Rating is 4.3 out of 5
Coleman 316 Series Insulated Portable Cooler with Heavy Duty Wheels, Leak-Proof Wheeled Cooler with 100+ Can Capacity, Keeps Ice for up to 5 Days, Great for Beach, Camping, Tailgating, Sports, & More
-
KEEP IT COLD: TempLock FX Insulation throughout delivers multiday ice retention
-
TAKE IT EASY: Heavy-duty wheels and an easy-tow handle are built for the long haul
-
UPGRADE: The 316 Series is made with 15% less plastic than comparable Coleman coolers
-
LOSE THE LEAKS: Tethered drainplug resists leaks and won't get lost
-
ENJOY A BIG SIP: Four cup holders prevent spills; each holds up to a 30 oz tumbler
-
CLEAN UP QUICK: Stain-resistant liner & the EZ-Clean lid make cleanup a breeze
-
TAKE A LOAD OFF: Sturdy Have-A-Seat Lid supports up to 250 lbs.
-
GO BIG: 100-quart size holds up to 80 cans and 50 lbs. of ice
9
Rating is 4.2 out of 5
Veradek Outdoor Cooler Side Table - 2 in 1 - Designed for use as Outdoor Side Table, Patio Table, Outdoor Patio Decor and Outdoor Bar, Portable Bar, Patio Bar, Ice Chest
-
KEEP COOL - Keeps 48 12 oz. cans cool for up to 12 hours with an ice capacity of 40L of 10.5 Gallons. Cool gifts for dad or mom!
-
MODERN DESIGN - Clean, modern design. From the balcony, to the patio, to the pool, the Cooler Table fits any house and any space. Comes in various colors including black, white, sandstone and gray.
-
ALL WEATHER RESISTANT - The most durable backyard furniture, deck furniture, outside decor, outdoor tables you will ever own. Weather tested in -20 degrees to +120 degrees. Fade and crack resistant.
-
MADE FROM REAL STONE - The only outdoor bar set, patio accessories or outdoor end table made from a PATENTED stone-plastic composite. The look/feel of stone with the performance of plastic.
10
Rating is 4.1 out of 5
Keter Modern Cool Bar Outdoor Patio Furniture and Hot Tub Side Table with 7.5 Gallon Beer and Wine Cooler, Dark Grey
-
OUTDOOR BAR TABLE: Elevate your next gameday party. This portable bar table allows your guests to grab chilled beverages while never being far from any of the action
-
POP UP BAR & HIDDEN COOLER: Lid elevates upwards 10 inches above the rim for use as a patio bar table. The top reveals a hidden cooler with 7.5-gallon capacity. Keep up to forty 12 oz. cans ice cold
-
VERSATILE USE: When not being used as a party bar, shut the top and use as a patio coffee table. When elevated, it is the ideal height for use as a hot tub table so you will always have a spot for your drink, snacks, and phone
-
ALL-WEATHER-RESISTANT: Unlike real rattan and wicker, the thick exterior resin prevents rusting, peeling, and denting in all weather conditions, rain, or shine. Fade Free
-
EASY CLEANUP & LOW MAINTENANCE: Built in drainage plug makes cleanup a breeze. After the party is over and the ice is melted, simply pull the plug to drain the cooler and let it dry before putting it away until next time
-
GIFTS FOR DAD: The perfect gift and outdoor bar set accessory for the #1 BBQ Grill Master in your life. It is the ultimate sidekick to his outdoor kitchen.
-
BETTER WITH KETER: We are driven to invent. We create lifestyle solutions for use in and around the home in ways only we can. We design using sustainable and innovative technologies to create products that enhance people’s spaces and elevate their experiences.
What is the recommended method for cleaning and sanitizing a cooler?
The recommended method for cleaning and sanitizing a cooler is as follows:
- Empty the cooler and dispose of any leftover food, drinks, or ice.
- Rinse the cooler with warm water to remove any loose dirt or residue.
- Mix a solution of mild dish soap and warm water in a bucket or sink.
- Use a sponge or soft cloth soaked in the soapy water to scrub the interior and exterior of the cooler. Pay attention to the corners, seams, and handles.
- Rinse the cooler thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue.
- Prepare a sanitizing solution by mixing water and a food-safe sanitizer, such as a mixture of 1 tablespoon of bleach per gallon of water. Follow the instructions on the sanitizing product for proper dilution.
- Use a clean cloth or sponge soaked in the sanitizing solution to wipe down the entire cooler, including the interior and exterior surfaces.
- Allow the sanitizing solution to sit on the surfaces for the recommended contact time specified by the sanitizer's instructions. This ensures that any bacteria or germs are effectively killed.
- Rinse the cooler again with clean water to remove any traces of the sanitizing solution.
- Leave the cooler open to air dry completely before using it again.
It's important to check the manufacturer's instructions or guidelines for specific cleaning recommendations, as some coolers may have specific requirements or materials that need special attention.
What is the best technique for stacking items in an outdoor cooler?
The best technique for stacking items in an outdoor cooler is to follow these steps:
- Preparation: Before stacking, make sure your cooler is clean and dry. Ensure that perishable items are properly sealed or wrapped to prevent any leakage or cross-contamination.
- Ice or Ice Packs: Start by placing a layer of ice or ice packs at the bottom of the cooler. This helps maintain a low temperature and keeps everything cold.
- Layering Technique: Divide your items into different categories like drinks, meats, fruits, etc. This way, you can stack them more efficiently. Place heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top.
- Cold Zones: Designate one section of the cooler as the "cold zone" by placing foods that are more prone to spoilage, like meats and dairy products, in this area. This section should be closer to the ice or ice packs.
- Organization: Arrange your items strategically, creating a stable and organized stack. Place large and bulky items towards the bottom and arrange smaller items around them. Avoid leaving any empty spaces, as these can lead to warm air circulation.
- Insulation: Use towels or additional layers of insulation (such as bubble wrap or extra ice packs) to fill any gaps between the items and ensure the cooler is tightly packed. This minimizes the amount of warm air that enters when the cooler is opened.
- Top Layer: Finish by adding an extra layer of ice packs or loose ice on the top. This helps maintain a consistent temperature inside the cooler, especially when it's opened frequently.
- Proper Closing: Close the cooler lid tightly to create a good seal. Ensure that the cooler remains shaded from direct sunlight and is not exposed to excessive heat.
By following these steps, you can optimize the space in your outdoor cooler and maintain a consistent temperature, keeping your items chilled for longer periods.
What is the best practice for storing raw meat in an outdoor cooler?
When storing raw meat in an outdoor cooler, there are a few best practices to ensure food safety and prevent bacterial contamination:
- Keep the temperature below 40°F (4°C): It is crucial to maintain a cool temperature to slow down bacterial growth. Use a reliable cooler with sufficient insulation to maintain a temperature below 40°F (4°C).
- Separate and wrap the meat properly: To prevent cross-contamination, wrap each type of raw meat individually or keep them in separate leak-proof containers to avoid any contact between different meats. Use proper food-grade plastic bags or airtight containers.
- Place raw meat on bottom: Always place the raw meat at the bottom of the cooler to prevent any juices from dripping onto other food items. Juices from raw meat can contain harmful bacteria that may contaminate other foods.
- Use ice or gel packs: Pack the cooler with enough ice or gel packs to maintain a cold temperature throughout the storage duration. The general guideline is to use one pound (around half a kilogram) of ice or gel packs for every three pounds (around 1.5 kilograms) of food.
- Monitor and refresh the ice regularly: Check the temperature regularly and add more ice or ice packs as needed. It is essential to keep the cooler well-chilled to ensure the meat stays at a safe temperature.
- Limit the storage time: If possible, limit the storage time for raw meat in an outdoor cooler. It is best to consume or cook the meat within two to three days. Beyond that, there is an increased risk of bacterial growth and foodborne illnesses.
Remember, these recommendations are general guidelines, and it's always recommended to follow any specific instructions provided by the meat manufacturer or local food safety regulations.
How to pack a cooler to keep items cold for an extended period?
To pack a cooler and keep items cold for an extended period, you can follow these steps:
- Pre-chill the cooler: Before packing, store your cooler in a cool place, or fill it with ice and let it sit for a while to cool down the interior.
- Use ice blocks or frozen items: Instead of loose ice or ice packs, opt for large ice blocks or pre-frozen containers such as water bottles or juice cartons. These frozen items will melt more slowly and keep everything colder for long durations.
- Layering: Start by placing a layer of ice blocks or frozen items at the bottom of the cooler. This will create a cold foundation for your other items. Avoid placing perishable food directly on the ice.
- Organize items strategically: Sort and pack the items in an organized manner. Group similar items together to make it easier to find them later. Place items that you will need first on top to minimize the time spent with the cooler open.
- Fill void spaces: Fill any empty spaces in the cooler with crumpled newspaper, towels, or additional ice packs. The more you fill the empty spaces, the better insulation you will achieve.
- Keep cooler out of sunlight: Protect the cooler from direct sunlight or extreme heat by storing it in a shaded area or covering it with a tarp or reflective blanket.
- Limit opening the cooler: Whenever possible, avoid opening the cooler unnecessarily. Every time you open it, warm air enters, and cold air escapes, reducing the overall cooling efficiency.
- Maintain the temperature: If you need to extend the cooling time further, you can add additional ice or cold packs as necessary. Drain excess water as it accumulates to prevent items from getting soaked.
Remember, the duration your cooler will keep items cold depends on various factors like the ambient temperature, insulation quality of the cooler, and the type of items being stored. Following these tips will maximize the cooling efficiency, but for the longest periods, it's advisable to use specialty coolers designed for extended cooling, such as electric coolers or those with extra insulation.
