Best Car Coolers: Easily Access Chilled Beverages and Snacks On the Go

I took several factors into consideration when choosing the best car coolers. First, I made sure the units were designed specifically for use in cars, trucks, SUVs, etc., so they perform properly in a moving vehicle and function efficiently during road trips. I focused on products from companies that are well known in the industry and avoided off-brand coolers with little in terms of reputation. I chose coolers that work either using thermoelectric power or old-fashioned ice packs, so there's an option for those who prefer non-electric methods. I was unable to test each of these products, so I researched user feedback to see how they perform in real-world conditions. I also included items with a range of prices to suit a variety of budgets. For more information on our methodology, go here.

My pick for the best car cooler is the Igloo Thermoelectric Iceless Electric Plug-in 12V Cooler. It's a little less expensive than more premium options and includes a handle. which makes it easier to transport.  It is solidly built and can easily be placed on the floor on the passenger side or backseat. For a more budget-friendly option, consider the Coleman 40 Quart Portable Thermoelectric Cooler.

Thermoelectric coolers use a power source such as a 12V DC adapter, or cigarette lighter, to run. They do not do a great job of cooling down warm items, such as room-temperature soda cans. It’s best to pre-chill the cooler in advance, i.e., by using an AC wall adapter and pre-chill the contents before embarking on a road trip. Also, they generally cool items a certain number of degrees below ambient temperature, so if you store it in a trunk that’s 100 degrees, it will only cool items roughly 36 to 40 degrees cooler than that. These coolers have the potential to drain your battery if you leave them plugged in when the vehicle is off. 

Car coolers that use ice are another option. The best ones have excellent insulation and ice retention that allows you to keep contents cool for several days. However, ice eventually melts and needs to be replaced, and it can be a little messy.

Car coolers come in a range of sizes, which are measured in liters, quarts, or the number of soda cans they can accommodate. Some even fit two-liter bottles and wine bottles, so check the dimensions before making a purchase. Also, check the weight of the item and whether or not it includes a handle because that can affect its portability. This is important if you want to easily transport the unit between your vehicle and your home, job, campsite, etc.

You will be hard pressed to find a high-quality car cooler under $100. These units can cost upwards of $250 or more, depending on their size, construction, and brand name. The good news is that coolers on the lower end of this spectrum are efficient and reliable. Premium-priced options don't necessarily outperform their less-expensive counterparts. Either way, you're going to make an investment, so it's best to choose a product that includes all the features you want for your next road trip. 

You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers.