Outdoor Blog
6 Cheaper Alternatives to Yeti Coolers (Reviewed)
In a world where Yeti is king, it is hard to conceive of anything else even coming close let alone at a cheaper price tag. When Yeti came out with their high-quality rotomolded coolers in 2006, they took the world of outdoor sports and recreation by storm.
Despite prices that consistently sit above $150, they continue to make sales like the coolers are made of gold. Yeti hit a nerve.
At the time most people would just get an ice chest from Costco or Walmart, use it until it broke, and then buy another. Well, the brothers who founded Yeti were tired of doing that themselves so they made something better and charged accordingly. Yeti has now become almost cult-like with some people swearing by the brand and buying every product they make. The Yeti Tundra and Yeti Roadie, in particular, have taken over.
In a hurry? Here’s the test winner after 10 hours of research:
[amazon box=”B01G7KG5PA”]
And here’s an overview of the best cheaper alternatives to yeti coolers on the market today:
[amazon table=”16366″]
Others aren’t as convinced and rightfully so. Although the quality of a Yeti cooler was mostly unmatched in 2006, especially at the price offered, things have changed. Now, there are several Yeti competitors making comparable products at a cheaper price. You can get similar levels of quality, durability, and even a similar appearance without breaking the bank. The cooler market has changed as companies fight to make the next great cooler.
The alternatives that are currently on the market come very close. Some boast the attention-grabbing bear resistance of Yeti coolers. They also offer high-quality insulating foam that keeps ice solid for a week or more and they are even rotomolded like Yeti. It’s these traits and more that have really given Yeti a run for their money and proven that the field is competitive. The title of ‘best cooler’ isn’t so easily awarded anymore.
Some people have even conducted their own unofficial side by side tests. Each time the results are the same. Yeti might be king because of the power of their brand and the variety they offer but in the world of coolers, there are others vying for the throne.
Yeti Coolers: Cheaper Alternatives – Overview
1. RTIC Coolers
[amazon box=”B07DXBNL6F”]
In the great balancing act of price and quality, RTIC has hit the ground running and made a product that probably keeps the marketing team at Yeti awake at night. Pound for pound RTIC coolers seem to be everything a Yeti cooler is and maybe even more.
RTIC came out in 2015 with the slogan “half the price… holds more ice” and they regularly describe their products as “overbuilt – not overpriced”. For the most part that holds true. Although RTIC doesn’t have the same product variety regularly available like Yeti does, what they do have is usually cheaper. Sometimes the same type of product will sell for half the price.
This is pretty remarkable given the fact that RTIC products matchup against YETI so well. You get the highly durable rotomolded construction, high-quality insulation, IGBC certified bear resistance, aesthetically pleasing color and design, heavy-duty rubber t-latches, the no-sweat exterior design, and the list goes on.
In the early days of RTIC, their design was so similar to Yeti that Yeti actually took them to court and won. Since then RTIC has had to redesign its entire line but have managed to still retain all the qualities mentioned. The only critiques to be found of RTIC coolers is that they are sometimes heavier than Yeti coolers and the latch quality isn’t as good. The compromise there translates to a lower price tag.
Pros:
- Yeti like durability and quality
- Lower price than Yeti, sometimes half
- IGBC bear resistance certification
Cons:
- Sometimes heavier than Yeti coolers
- Lower quality latch design
- Less variety than Yeti
2. ORCA Coolers
[amazon box=”B00GUR1E5M”]
ORCA is another behemoth in the world of cooler manufacturers that have managed to go toe to toe with the likes of Yeti. In many ways, they are the same even in terms of price so ORCA sometimes looks like the Yeti of a parallel universe. ORCA does have traits that differentiate it though.
For some people, the fact that ORCA guarantees all of its products are made in the United States is a major plus. Yeti does not provide this guarantee by comparison since many of their products are made in the Philippines and China as well as the United States. Still, despite outsourcing their production and manufacturing the prices for Yeti coolers are higher than you would expect relative to those of ORCA. For ORCA then, it is a bit hit or miss. For some cooler sizes, the prices beat Yeti and for others, they match. You have to do your research.
ORCA coolers do come with an awesome lifetime warranty that beats Yeti’s old three year and five-year limited warranties. Yeti only has a lifetime warranty for 2019 models and newer. This alone might help settle a decision between two comparably priced coolers. Especially when the quality and durability between them is basically matched as you get with Yeti and ORCA.
ORCA coolers come in a wide selection of colors and styles with collegiate options available for all the university football teams. You can also outfit the coolers with gaskets to improve insulation or side cargo bags for extra storage space. This, along with the benchmark rotomolded bear-resistant construction makes for a solid Yeti alternative.
Pros:
- Made in the United States
- Comparable quality and variety
- Lifetime warranty
- IGBC bear resistance certification
Cons:
- Not always cheaper than Yeti
3. Pelican Elite
[amazon box=”B01G7KG5PA”]
Pelican coolers have everything you might want in a cooler and more. Some people even argue that Pelican Elite coolers are better than Yeti hands down without even considering the price. They might be right.
With Pelican coolers you can find almost any size you want with models ranging from 20 to 250 quarts. Each of these is made at a very high quality and durability so there’s no issue in terms of choice. The main body, handles, and the spigot are all made of polypropylene while the hardware is corrosion-resistant stainless steel.
Specialized ABS latches with a push-button release are a special treat on these coolers as well. These latches are simultaneously very easy to open yet also so resistant that every Pelican cooler is officially bear-proof. Most coolers only earn this designation by using a padlock, with Pelican that isn’t necessary.
Another huge win for Pelican coolers is that in side by side testing they actually outperform Yeti in ice retention. You get days and days of ice. This performance combined with nice features like molded handles (instead of rope handles), molded-in tie downs, cup holders, drain plugs and wheels makes for a real winner. You can even buy versions with built-in bottle openers and fish scales.
Pelican makes it very hard to find any downsides to their products. Then they go and add a lifetime warranty just for fun. All of this quality does put many Pelican products at about the same cost as Yeti but they are on this list because you can also find certain models that are cheaper. Whether at or below Yeti prices the Pelican Elite coolers, in particular, seem to be a very good value for the money. On top of all that they are made in the United States. The motto for their coolers is that “A classic never goes out of style” and that seems to be true.
Pros:
- Longer ice retention than Yeti
- Easy to use ABS latches
- Lifetime warranty
- High-quality construction and durability
- IGBC bear resistance certification
- Made in the USA
Cons:
- Not always cheaper than Yeti
4. Grizzly Coolers
[amazon box=”B01BT97QCA”]
Grizzly has been around since 1983 so they are definitely not the new kid on the block. They have a loyal fanbase of outdoorsmen due to their years in the industry and it is well deserved. Grizzly describes their coolers as the “Outdoor everything cooler” and they stand by that.
These coolers check all the boxes you might expect from a high-quality cooler. They are rotomolded and built with pressure-injected insulation. They also go to great lengths to live up to their name by maintaining official IGBC bear resistance certification. It wouldn’t be fair to put the name Grizzly on a cooler that can’t stand up to a Grizzly, now would it?
Grizzly coolers are not known for holding ice as well or as long as a Yeti cooler but the difference is not substantial. What the coolers lack in ice retention they make up for in many other ways. For one they are all produced exclusively in the United States. With Yeti coolers being produced in other parts of the world this distinction is key for some customers.
Grizzly also offers a lifetime warranty which is always a plus. Yeti just began offering a lifetime warranty in 2019 and all of their older products are on shorted limited warranties. Grizzly has multiple decades of experience to produce a winning product they can stand behind no matter what.
With all of this in consideration, Grizzly manages to sell a comparable product at prices that often beat Yeti. At one point Grizzly always beat Yeti on price but the market has become more competitive. If those lower Grizzly prices were to return they could easily be a top choice in the field.
Pros:
- Lifetime warranty
- Experience in the market
- Made in the USA
- IGBC bear resistance certification
Cons:
- Lower ice retention than Yeti
- Not always cheaper than Yeti
5. Igloo Coolers
[amazon box=”B006MIXHQI”]
Igloo has been the go-to name in coolers for over fifty years and they continue to impress. At prices far below anything Yeti has managed, you still get all the core essentials you would want in a cooler. This includes up to a week or more of ice retention, built-in bottle openers, fish rulers and tie-down loops, as well as high-quality construction.
The discontinued Yukon Cold Locker from Igloo was one of the best but thankfully it can still be gotten through Amazon. This model was rotomolded with polyethylene and filled with a polyurethane insulating core which means it has that Yeti quality durability and ice retention. It is also one of the few Igloo models that are certified bear-resistant which puts it in line with many of the other top coolers out there but at a lower price.
The Igloo Yukon Cold Locker has a few nice features. The oversized drain plug is great for quick drainage and the plug itself comes tethered so you won’t lose it. On the underside, you have reversible slide and anti-skid feet which make it easy to slide the cooler into your vehicle when loading it and then lock it in place when you are on the move. The cooler is a solid Yeti alternative all around.
The current commercially available Igloo coolers come in a variety of types and styles each made with different construction methods. The IMX and Leeward coolers are most comparable to Yeti but again, you save on the price. The differences in features and construction haven’t put a dent in the reviews though which are nearly 5 stars for all the IMX and Leeward models.
Unfortunately, Igloo does only offer a limited warranty, typically 5 years, which you might not expect from a company as well established as they are. With Igloo you do get what you pay for in the sense that quality and perks suffer at the cost of a lower price. If anything, this is marginally made up for by the variety that Igloo does offer.
Instead of being best in class at only one type of cooler Igloo has become very good at a wide variety. This variation in the coolers is matched by a decent selection of accessories as well which is more robust than other companies. With so much to choose from it is more likely that you’ll be able to find a cooler better suited to your needs than you might while shopping with Yeti.
Pros:
- Cheaper than Yeti
- More specialization/variety in the coolers
- Many years in the industry
Cons:
- Not all coolers are certified bear-resistant
- Not all the coolers have the same quality construction as Yeti
- Limited 5-year warranty
6. Engel Coolers
[amazon box=”B005PQYBLI”]
Engel is another one of those old staples in the cooler industry. Having started in Japan in 1962 they eventually brought their products and production to the United States in 1999. Since then they have maintained their reputation for making high-quality products. Engel was actually among the first to make rotomolded coolers and they are one of the companies that brought the technique to the forefront.
Their coolers are built tough and are filled with a full 2-inches of insulation in the lid, sides, and bottom. This gives them true ice retention of up to 10 days which still appears to beat Yeti coolers in side by side tests. The downside to all the insulation, of course, is that you aren’t actually getting the cooler volume advertised. A 65-quart cooler might be less. It does seem that some coolers, like the Engel 45, try to make up for this though. With the Engel 45 you actually get 47 quarts, it is hit and miss.
All the hard coolers are IGBC certified bear-resistant as you would expect from a rotomolded high-performance cooler such as this. Another downside though is that each model only comes with a 10-year warranty instead of the lifetime warranty that is now becoming standard across the industry.
Engel still wins on price and variety though. They offer different sizes ranging from 25 to 320 quarts all available in colors such as yellow, pink, and camo as well as all the other traditional colors like pink and white. Prices are usually lower than Yeti and depending on when and where you shop they can be very good.
Pros:
- Good variety
- Good prices
- IGBC bear resistance certification
Cons:
- Unreliable sizing
- 10-year warranty instead of lifetime
Our Winner:
[amazon table=”16367″]
There was a brief period of time when cheaper alternatives to Yeti coolers were plentiful and could be found with a little bit of google time. Things have changed. Lawsuits with companies like RTIC and increased competition in the marketplace forced companies to change their methods and prices. What you get now is a mix. You can find similar quality products at similar prices and lower quality products at lower prices. You can also find lower quality at higher prices and higher quality at lower prices.
The thing is you have to spend time looking. Most of the options listed here as cheaper alternatives to Yeti can be found through Amazon thankfully, and at good prices. Other products on the market, even though they are much cheaper, just don’t match up to Yeti and really don’t count as alternatives. There are several knockoff cooler brands trying to make the next big Yeti cooler alternative. These cheap coolers just don’t cut it.
Out of all the options out there Pelican Elite Coolers appear to be the best Yeti alternative on the market. You shouldn’t even consider them an alternative really. Pelican coolers are in a league of their own, like Yeti, and they just happen to be cheaper sometimes. The fact that you can get very high-quality construction, longer ice retention than Yeti, arguably better latches, and a lifetime warranty makes Pelican stand out from the crowd.
As their motto states “A classic never goes out of style.” Pelican has worked to ensure this by consistently delivering on their promise of superior quality, made in America, and guaranteed for a lifetime. You can’t go wrong with that.
Bonus tip: Watch this video of a head to head ice retention test between a Yeti cooler and a Pelican cooler. Fancy a guess at which one wins?
Outdoor Blog
Gear You Should Snag for the Great Outdoors This Season
Outdoor enthusiasts know that having the right gear can make all the difference. Whether you’re hiking, camping, hunting, or engaging in any other outdoor activity, quality equipment ensures not only safety but also a better overall experience. As we head into a new season, it’s time to refresh your gear collection with essential items that will enhance your adventures. In this article, we’ll explore five pieces of must-have outdoor gear, focusing on both practicality and comfort.
Shooting Glasses Are Essential for Outdoor Adventures
If you’re heading out for a shooting range session or a hunting trip, investing in a quality pair of shooting glasses is non-negotiable. Eye protection is critical when engaging in any activity involving firearms, and shooting glasses are designed to keep your eyes safe from potential hazards like debris, shell casings, and even harmful UV rays.
Shooting glasses are a key safety measure that helps shield your eyes from impact and glare. The lenses are typically made from high-impact resistant materials that can endure tough conditions, making them a must-have for hunters, target shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Beyond safety, these glasses often come with polarized lenses to improve visibility in various lighting conditions. By incorporating shooting glasses into your outdoor gear, you’re ensuring not only better safety but also improved performance during your time in the wilderness.
What Should You Look For During Black Friday Hunting Gear Deals?
One of the best times to stock up on essential outdoor gear is during Black Friday. Black Friday hunting gear deals provide an opportunity for hunters to snag high-quality items at significantly reduced prices. Whether you’re after apparel, backpacks, or specialized equipment, Black Friday sales often feature steep discounts on top brands that every outdoor enthusiast should take advantage of.
This sale season is ideal for upgrading your hunting wardrobe and stocking up on essential gear that may normally be out of your price range. From weather-resistant jackets to durable boots and base layers, hunting gear can be pricey, and Black Friday is the perfect time to invest in the best equipment. By keeping an eye out for deals during this shopping period, you can save money while ensuring you’re well-prepared for your next big adventure.
Multi-Tools Are a Must-Have
Want to know the most versatile pieces of gear you can carry? It is a multi-tool. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or hunting, having a tool that can serve multiple functions is a game-changer. Multi-tools come equipped with a variety of features such as knives, screwdrivers, pliers, and scissors, all compactly housed in a single device that easily fits in your pocket or pack.
The practicality of a multi-tool is hard to beat. It allows you to tackle unexpected tasks, from cutting rope to repairing gear, all without needing to carry a full toolbox. When you’re out in the wild, you want to be prepared for anything, and a multi-tool ensures you’re ready to handle small emergencies or make quick fixes with ease.
Insulated Water Bottles Can Improve Your Outdoor Experience
Staying hydrated is one of the most important aspects of any outdoor activity. Whether you’re embarking on a long hike or spending hours in a hunting blind, having an insulated water bottle can make a difference. Insulated bottles have features that help to keep your drinks at the desired temperature for a long time, which is especially useful during extreme weather conditions.
These bottles maintain the temperature of your beverage—whether cold or hot—so you can enjoy refreshing water in the summer or a warm drink during chilly morning hunts. Insulated water bottles are also typically made from durable materials, meaning they can withstand the rigors of outdoor use without breaking or leaking. Investing in a high-quality insulated bottle ensures that you stay hydrated and comfortable throughout your outdoor excursions.
Durable Backpacks Can Enhance Your Outdoor Experience
A good backpack is the cornerstone of any successful outdoor trip. When you’re out in nature, you need a reliable, durable pack to carry all of your gear comfortably. Look for backpacks that are built to withstand harsh conditions, provide ample storage, and have ergonomic designs that distribute weight evenly to prevent strain on your back and shoulders.
Modern outdoor backpacks come equipped with multiple compartments to help you stay organized, as well as specialized features like hydration bladder compatibility, rain covers, and reinforced straps. By investing in a durable, well-designed backpack, you’ll have the capacity to carry everything you need—whether it’s extra clothing, food, or hunting gear—while maintaining comfort during long treks.
Outdoor Blog
Are You Ready for Autumn Adventures? How to Prep for an Unforgettable Outdoor Fall Guys Trip
As autumn rolls in, the great outdoors beckons with its crisp air and colorful foliage. For those gearing up for an adventurous Fall Guys trip—think hiking, camping, and maybe some deer hunting—the preparation is half the fun and all the necessity. With a myriad of activities to choose from, how do you ensure your fall excursion is not only exhilarating but also safe and comfortable? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most of your outdoor escapades this fall.
Choosing Your Adventure
First things first: deciding what type of fall outdoor activity tickles your fancy. Are you looking to conquer trails with breathtaking autumn views, or are you gearing up for a weekend of tranquil camping beside a glistening lake? Perhaps, the thrill of tracking and observing wildlife is what you’re after.
Each activity demands a different approach and preparation method. Start by defining what your fall guys trip looks like. Is it a quiet escape into the wilderness, a challenging hike, or a dedicated hunting expedition? Once you’ve nailed down the type of trip, you can start tailoring your prep list to match the demands of the activities you’ve chosen.
Plan a Camping Trip
If camping is on your agenda, meticulous planning is essential to enjoy both the spontaneity and serenity of nature without a hitch. When you plan a camping trip, think beyond just a tent and a sleeping bag. Consider the overall length of your trip, the climate of your chosen destination, and the size of your group. Are you venturing into bear country? If so, bear-proof containers for your food and trash are a must.
What’s the weather forecast? Ensure your gear is appropriate for colder nights and unpredictable weather patterns. A well-planned camping experience means securing the right campsite, bringing sufficient food and water supplies, and ensuring you have the necessary permits. Also, be aware of the leave-no-trace principles to keep your environmental impact to a minimum. Planning with precision ensures you’re free to relax and revel in the beauty of the season without unnecessary interruptions.
Gear Up for Deer Hunting
For many outdoor enthusiasts, fall is synonymous with deer hunting season. If this is the core of your guys trip, gearing up appropriately cannot be overstressed. Your deer hunting gear is your ticket to not only success but also safety. Start with the basics: a reliable hunting rifle or bow, suitable ammunition, and a quality scope or binoculars for spotting your target.
Clothing is next on the list; opt for layers that can easily adjust to changing temperatures and are also camouflaged to blend in with the fall environment. Don’t skimp on a good pair of boots—comfort, warmth, and durability are key when you’re on the move. Also, essential gear like a hunting license, deer tags, a first-aid kit, and even a GPS or compass should be non-negotiable items in your pack. Remember, the right gear not only enhances your chances of a fruitful hunt but ensures you can do so safely and responsibly within the ecological balance.
Map Your Route
Mapping your route is crucial whether you’re hiking, camping, or hunting. This involves more than just selecting a trail or a campsite; it means understanding the terrain, noting water sources, identifying potential shelter spots, and being aware of exit points in case of emergencies. Topographic maps, GPS devices, and even mobile apps can be incredibly useful tools for this.
Spend time familiarizing yourself with the area through these resources, and always carry a physical map and compass—you never know when technology might let you down. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about where you plan to go and expected return time is a safety must. Properly mapping your route not only helps in avoiding getting lost but also maximizes your interaction with nature, letting you find those hidden spots that make a trip memorable.
Prepare Physically and Mentally
The physical demands of outdoor activities, especially in the unpredictable weather of fall, should not be underestimated. Start conditioning your body weeks in advance, particularly if your trip involves strenuous activities like long hikes or hunting. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hikes with a loaded backpack can prepare your body for the exertion to come.
Equally important is mental preparation. Familiarize yourself with survival skills, such as how to start a fire, basic first aid, and how to stay calm in unexpected situations. A physically and mentally prepared adventurer is more likely to enjoy the trip and handle potential challenges effectively.
Pack Smart
The final step in preparing for your outdoor trip this fall is packing. Since fall weather can be highly variable, layering is key. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Besides clothing, pack essential gear tailored to your activities—this could include a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures, waterproof bags to keep gear dry, cooking equipment, food supplies, and safety items like a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool. Be mindful of the weight and volume of your pack; every item should justify its place in your backpack by being essential or serving multiple purposes.
Outdoor Blog
BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024
BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.
At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.
The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.
In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.
BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.
For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.
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