Yeti has earned a big reputation in the cooler world. Their coolers do have some nice features, but with that said, a big name doesn’t automatically mean it’s the only option worth considering. There are plenty of other coolers on the market – Cordova, Pelican, RTIC, Igloo and BruMate – to name a few that offer similar performance. In some cases, they offer features that make them even more practical for everyday adventures.

From ice retention and durability to ease of cleaning and portability, these alternatives give you choices that fit your lifestyle. Some are built for rugged outdoor excursions, others for weekend trips, tailgates or backyard gatherings. Cordova coolers, in particular, hit a sweet spot: they hold ice for days, are tough enough for frequent use and are designed to be easy to maintain. You don’t have to pay extra for a brand name to get a cooler that performs reliably, keeps your drinks cold and makes your outdoor life easier.

Exploring these alternatives means you can find a cooler that truly matches your needs, whether that’s hauling it to a fishing spot, keeping your tailgate stocked or handling a weekend camping trip. Let’s take a look and do a comparison.

What Makes a Cooler Great?

First, let’s talk about what you need to compare when shopping for coolers, because it helps to focus on a few key features. These are the things that really make a cooler reliable for camping trips, tailgates, fishing trips or just keeping drinks cold in the backyard:

1. Ice Retention: How long it can keep ice frozen. The longer it lasts, the less often you need to refill or worry about warm drinks.
2. Durability: Tough materials, solid construction and strong latches help the cooler stand up to bumps, drops and long trips.
3. Ease of Cleaning: Smooth interiors, simple drain plugs and removable lids make cleanup quick and easy.
4. Portability: Comfortable handles, secure latches and manageable weight mean it’s easy to move the cooler wherever you need it.
5. Capacity & Size: Choose a cooler that fits your group and the type of outings you do most, such as small for day trips and large for weekend adventures.
6. Price vs. Performance: Some coolers deliver top-tier ice retention and durability at a lower cost than premium brands, giving better value for your money.

Let’s take a closer look at several top alternatives, including Pelican, RTIC, Igloo, BruMate and Cordova. Each has its own strengths, making it easy to find a cooler that fits your style and keeps ice longer without overspending.

Top Cooler Alternatives Compared

Finding a cooler that keeps ice longer, handles rough conditions and fits your budget doesn’t have to be complicated. Several brands offer strong alternatives to high-end options, each with its own strengths depending on how it will be used. Here’s a closer look at some of the most popular choices.

Yeti Coolers

Yeti coolers are known for their dependable ice retention. Many models can keep ice frozen for several days, making them a solid choice for long trips and challenging conditions. Pros include heavy-duty construction, a wide range of sizes and accessories, and reliable performance in harsh environments. The trade-offs? They come with a higher price and can be heavier than other options. 

Pelican Coolers

Pelican coolers are durable. With certain coolers having ice retention of up to 10 days in ideal settings, they’re tough enough to handle serious outdoor adventures. Pros include their construction and a lifetime guarantee. The trade-offs? They’re on the heavier side, and some come with a higher price tag. Pelican coolers are perfect for anglers, hunters and anyone tackling demanding trips where durability matters most.

RTIC Coolers

RTIC coolers offer performance similar to premium brands but at a more approachable price. They hold ice well in most tests and are built to last, making them a solid choice for casual campers and weekend excursions. They can be a bit heavier than some competitors, and they are not bear-resistant.

Igloo Coolers

Igloo coolers are often the go-to for families and budget-conscious buyers. Ice retention varies by model. They’re lightweight, easy to carry and simple to transport, making them convenient for tailgates or backyard gatherings. The main limitation is that they aren’t as durable for heavy-duty use, so they’re better for moderate adventures rather than extreme conditions.

BruMate Coolers

BruMate coolers stand out for sleek, compact designs that are great for stylish outdoor entertaining. Many come in fun designs, too! Ice can last a few days depending on the model, and the innovative features make them visually appealing. They’re not as rugged as other options and some have smaller capacities. So, they shine mainly in settings like backyard gatherings rather than long-term outdoor excursions.

Cordova Coolers

Last but not least, Cordova coolers are designed to deliver high performance. They come in several sizes and styles, and their durable, easy-to-clean design makes them practical for everyday use. They have several unique features like anti-slip goat feet, a lid lock and even built-in bottle openers. Cordova coolers are versatile enough for fishing trips, camping and a wide range of outdoor adventures. 

With so many solid options on the market, it can be tricky to decide which cooler fits your needs best. Each brand brings something different to the table. Some excel in rugged durability, others in portability or design. That’s where Cordova coolers really stand out. Our coolers combine the performance you want with thoughtful features and easy maintenance, making them a practical alternative to bigger names like Yeti. Let’s take a closer look at how Cordova measures up.

Cordova vs. Yeti: What You’re Really Getting

In terms of ice retention, many Cordova cooler models can keep drinks and food cold for days on end. Their durable construction holds up well in everyday use, from fishing trips and camping to backyard barbecues. Cleanup is simple, thanks to smooth interiors and easy-drain designs, making them practical for regular outings. 

Most Cordova coolers are less expensive or comparable in price to Yeti coolers. Yet, Cordova coolers have many premium features. We mentioned a few above, but here is a better list: 

1. Anodized Aluminum Handles
2. Top Loader Latches
3. Anti-Slip Goat Feet
4. Quad-Core Seal Gasket
5. Ecofoam Insulation
6. Patented Lid Lock System
7. Built-In Bottle Opener
8. Engineered Drain Plug

If you’d like to learn more about each of these features, be sure to read our blog, which has more details.

When comparing with other alternatives, Cordova strikes a balance. The result is a versatile cooler that’s tough enough for serious use, simple to maintain and smart for everyday adventures. It’s an option that keeps ice, is extremely durable and gets the job done reliably.

For dependable performance that you can trust on every adventure to come, Cordova coolers are a smart choice. Explore our full lineup and find the perfect Cordova cooler for your next adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Cordova coolers easy to clean?

Yes. Cordova coolers feature smooth interiors, easy-drain plugs and materials designed to wipe down quickly. This makes them practical for everyday use, whether it’s fishing trips, camping or backyard gatherings, keeping maintenance simple and stress-free.

How long do Cordova coolers hold ice compared to Yeti?

Cordova coolers can rival Yeti in most sizes, keeping ice for multiple days depending on conditions. While extreme heat or heavy use can shorten ice life, they perform reliably for weekend trips, tailgates and extended outings.

Are Cordova coolers worth the price?

Absolutely. They combine durability, excellent ice retention and easy cleaning at a more approachable cost than premium brands. For anyone looking for reliable performance without overpaying, Cordova coolers deliver strong value.