The Best 50 Quart Cooler for Camping and Tailgating

A 50-quart cooler represents a significant capacity jump from smaller models, providing ample space for camping trips, beach days, or tailgating parties. Our carefully selected recommendations balance durability, insulation quality, and practical features to help you find the perfect large-capacity cooler for your needs.

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Reviews

Camco 51701 50 Qt White Cyan Cooler

This 50-quart cooler has proven its worth on beach trips and road trips alike, keeping food and drinks cold for days at a time. The durable construction and freezer-grade seal live up to the Camco reputation, though some users have noted mixed results with ice retention. The white and cyan design pairs practical features like reversible feet and spill-proof drain plug with EPA-approved materials that can handle dry ice.

Monoprice Emperor Cooler

These rotomolded coolers combine commercial-grade foam insulation with reinforced corners and double-rubber seals to maintain temperatures for over 130 hours of cold or 150 hours of heat protection. The 50-quart capacity model features stress-free rotomolded construction, steel-reinforced latches, and built-in bottle opener. While the handle design could be more ergonomic and spare parts are not readily available, the coolers excel in keeping ice frozen and food fresh during outdoor adventures.

54 Qt Marine Chest Cooler

This durable marine cooler maintains 0°C for up to three days with proper ice management. Built in the USA, the white-plated design combines attractive aesthetics with practical functionality, featuring sturdy side handles and reliable security latches. The 54-quart capacity perfectly balances size and portability for outdoor excursions.

Igloo 52qt Indigo Blue Cooler

This well-insulated cooler holds nearly 52 quarts of ice and features a sleek indigo blue exterior with practical rubber handles and molded drink holders. Whether you’re camping in the mountains or tubing down a Texas river, the elevated design and triple-layer construction keep your perishables frozen for days, thanks to the clever Cool Riser Technology that elevates the interior above the bottom of the cooler. The lightweight yet durable Igloo cooler has earned praise from users who put it to the test on long trips and weekend getaways, from keeping milk frozen during cross-country moves to powering through 8-day road trips without skipping a chilly beat.

Igloo 50059 Latitude cooler

This affordable yet practical cooler combines attractive styling with spacious storage for your outdoor adventures. The deep draw design and self-draining drink holders keep your beverages cold, while the elevated Cool Riser technology improves overall cooling performance. Whether you’re tailgating at a game or camping in the great outdoors, this American-made cooler handles the basics without breaking the bank.

50 Quart Igloo Red Cooler

This red cooler from Igloo keeps your drinks cold with its insulated plastic construction and elevated design that enhances cooling efficiency. The convenient swing-up handles make it easy to load and unload, while the built-in drink holders keep your favorite beverages within reach. Though it lacks a built-in drain, the four self-draining holders and bungee cord attachment points make it a practical choice for outdoor excursions.

Igloo Mission 50 Quart Cooler

The Igloo Mission cooler delivers impressive temperature retention with its thick insulation keeping ice cold for four days. Its durable food-grade construction and roomy 50-quart capacity make it perfect for weekend getaways or longer trips. The heavy-duty handles and secure lid system provide both ease of use and protection for your gear.

Camco Currituck 50 Quart Cooler

This impressive cooler measures a substantial 31 inches long and weighs 65 pounds, though that’s not immediately obvious thanks to its smart design details like reversible feet that prevent tipping whether on grass or concrete. The nearly 50-quart capacity offers generous room for camping supplies or family barbecues, while the silicone seal and lockable drain plug make it surprisingly simple to manage water and ice.

Pelican 50 Quart Elite Cooler

This cooler combines serious insulation with clever design touches like integrated measuring tools and molded handles. The tough Pelican build quality really shows - from the locking latches to the reinforced hasp that also serves as a bottle opener. At 26.39 lbs, it carries a hefty 50 quarts while keeping your food and drinks cold for days.

Pelican Elite 50 Quart Cooler

This rugged cooler from Pelican delivers exceptional ice retention and durability, featuring press-and-pull latches, integrated cup holders, and a built-in bottle opener. With molded-in lock hasps and stainless steel plate reinforcement, it’s built to last. The 50-quart capacity keeps drinks and food cold for days, making it perfect for camping trips, tailgating, or any outdoor excursion.

K2 Summit 50 Quart Cooler

Crafted from one-piece, roto-molded food-grade material with UV resistance and DryIce compatibility, the K2 Summit cooler features K2’s SNOWblown insulation and ICEvault gasket system for superior temperature retention. The durable nylon strap with cushioned shoulder piece makes it perfect for grab-and-go trips, while the POSITRAC lid latches and ENDURA hinge system ensure a secure, permanent lid attachment that seals out heat and keeps your contents ice cold or at the perfect temperature.

Engel 50 High Performance Cooler

The Engel 50 proves itself as a durable workhorse in both casual picnics and intense outdoor adventures. Real-world testing shows that while some expect rock-solid ice retention, the cooler generally performs well enough to keep your brews cold for extended periods. With minor adjustments, the locking system creates a solid seal that’s held up to rough handling from kids and daily use. The all-white, roto-molded construction feels as practical as it looks, making it a reliable choice for anyone who needs a tough, versatile cooler that can double as a boat step.

Igloo Profile II 50 Hard Cooler Moonscape Gray

This American-made Igloo cooler combines durable construction with practical features like its foldable handles and Cool Riser Technology, which helps maintain optimal temperature by elevating the contents off the bottom. The generous 50-quart capacity handles ice well, though some customers note that while it’s effective for short trips, the ice melts faster than advertised for extended use. Overall, it’s a reliable choice for weekend excursions or picnics, keeping drinks and food cold while taking up minimal space in your vehicle.

Igloo 48qt Laguna Hard-Sided Ice Chest

The Igloo cooler hits the sweet spot with its generous 48-quart capacity and manageable 8.4-pound weight. Its stain-blocking liner makes cleanup a breeze, and the cool-sustaining design kept my drinks frosty during a 12-hour road trip. While it didn’t quite match the performance of more expensive coolers in extreme heat, its bright aqua color and cheerful design definitely brought some summer fun to my picnic.

Igloo Trailmate 50 Qt Spruce Cooler

This American-made cooler combines impressive durability with practical features like a leakproof lid and easy-to-use flip ‘n’ sip lid. The 50-quart capacity handles everything from ice-packed outings to car-friendly grocery runs, while the advanced insulation keeps your drinks cold for days. Whether you’re camping, tailgating, or just hanging out at the lake, this Igloo cooler delivers big on both style and functionality.

Igloo Latitude 50 Qt. Cooler

The Igloo cooler has earned its reputation as a reliable storage solution, with its insulated body keeping contents cold for extended periods. Built for durability with reinforced handles and a spill-proof design, it’s a practical choice despite minor drawbacks like the missing drain plug noted by some users. The tank-green sandstone finish adds a touch of style to its functional design.

Igloo Overland 50qt Portable Cooler

This rugged Igloo cooler combines impressive ice retention with practical camping features. The thick-walled construction and dual-rubber latched lid keep your cold items locked in, while the built-in drain plug and UV inhibitors handle the details. Whether you’re weekend camping or on an extended trip, the Overland 50-quart cooler delivers reliable performance in any outdoor setting.

Igloo 50 Quart Marine Cooler

Crafted from premium polyethylene and stainless steel materials in the USA, this high-quality cool box lives up to the Igloo name with excellent thermal performance. The UV-protective 47L capacity model keeps your drinks and snacks cool for days, while features like the built-in measuring scale and anti-slip handles make it practical for everyday use. With its portable design and eco-friendly insulation foam, this American-made cooler is perfect for camping trips and daytime excursions.

Igloo 48qt Laguna Red Ice Chest

This red Igloo cooler has served my family well for picnics and camping trips, though we’ve had to get creative with ice management. Like most reviewers, I appreciate its roomy 48qt capacity and light weight, which makes it easy to lug around. The lack of a drain spout can be alixir when ice starts melting, so I’ve learned to use the hinge gap for water drainage instead.

Coleman 50 Quart Xtreme 5 Wheeled Cooler

This Coleman cooler delivers reliable cold storage with its thick walls and thermal insulation, keeping your drinks and food fresh for days. The spacious interior holds 84 cans or roughly 50 quarts of cargo, from full-size bottles to picnic essentials. Whether you’re tailgating, camping, or just need a rugged cooler for beach days, its durable wheels and spill-proof cup holders make it a practical choice despite minor design flaws noted by some users.

Buyer’s Guide

A 50-quart cooler is a versatile choice for outdoor activities, providing ample space for food and beverages while offering reliable temperature maintenance. Understanding key features and specifications will help you select a cooler that meets your specific needs and ensures optimal performance.

Thermal Performance

The cooler’s insulation quality determines its ability to maintain temperature. Look for coolers with walls made from polyethylene or rotational molding, which provide better insulation than cheaper materials. The R-value (thermal resistance) is a measure of insulation quality, with higher values indicating better temperature retention.

Size and Shape Variations

Standard 50-quart coolers typically measure around 23 inches wide, 17 inches deep, and 18 inches tall. Consider the shape of the cooler, as some designs with more straight lines pack more efficiently. For vehicle storage, opt for a model with rounded corners to maximize space.

Access and Organization

Refrigerator-style doors provide better temperature retention than swing-top lids. Look for coolers with multiple compartments, adjustable shelves, and built-in separators to keep items organized and prevent spillage. The number of handles affects portability, with more handles providing better grip and stability.

Maintenance and Durability

Choose a cooler with rubber gaskets around the lid for better sealing and temperature retention. The material of the handles and exterior plays a role in durability – nylon handles resist scratching and melting in sun, while a powder-coated exterior provides lasting color without chipping.

FAQ

What is a 50 quart cooler?

A 50 quart cooler is a portable, insulated container designed to keep food and beverages cold for extended periods. It typically features a hard plastic or rubber construction with a padded lid and often includes features like adjustable drink holders and moisture-absorbing liners.

These coolers maintain optimal temperatures using a combination of insulating foam, thermal blankets, and sometimes gel packs. Common size options range from 30 to 70 quarts, with 50-quart models offering a good balance of capacity and portability.

How do 50 quart coolers keep things cold?

50 quart coolers maintain cold temperatures through their double-walled construction with vacuum insulation between the walls, which prevents heat transfer. The interior typically includes a moisture barrier to control condensation and sometimes includes ice retention features like built-in or portable freezer packs.

The cooling capacity depends on several factors including initial temperature of the contents, ambient temperature, and whether the cooler maintain its seal. Proper maintenance, such as keeping the lid tight, significantly impacts performance.

What types of 50 quart coolers are available?

Common types include hard-sided plastic coolers, which offer durability and consistent temperature control, and soft-sided coolers made from insulated fabric that can be more lightweight and packable.

Specialty models may include features like built-in beverage holders, external pockets for accessories, or wheels for easier transport. Some include USB ports for portable power to run a small freezer or charger.

How long do 50 quart coolers stay cold?

When properly insulated and filled with ice, a 50 quart cooler can maintain cold temperatures for 24-36 hours. Factors affecting this include whether the lid remains closed, the initial temperature of the contents, and ambient outdoor temperature.

A well-insulated cooler can retain a safe food temperature for 12-18 hours when partially filled, and even longer with additional ice. The key is to fill only 2/3 with food and ice, leaving space for air to circulate and prevent temperature spikes.

What should I consider when buying a 50 quart cooler?

Key considerations include size and shape compatibility with your vehicle and destination, weight and portability, and whether you need features like drink holders or built-in ice storage. Look for BPA-free materials and watertight sealing capabilities.

Consider the material durability, warranty, and manufacturer reputation. Some coolers include features like USB ports for charging devices or quick-drain systems for transport. Evaluate the cooler’s performance in your specific use case before purchasing.

How should I maintain and care for a 50 quart cooler?

Regular maintenance includes thorough cleaning after each use, preferably with mild soap and water. Allow the cooler to dry completely before storage to prevent mildew growth. Consider using a liner for easier cleaning and better odor control.

Check seals, hinges, and latches for wear and replace any damaged parts. Store the cooler in a cool, dry place when not in use. Periodic inspection for cracks or damage to the insulation ensures continued performance.

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