How to Pick the Best Cooler for Hunting

For any serious hunter, picking the right cooler is almost as crucial as choosing the right weapon or gear. 

Whether you're hunting elk, deer, or waterfowl, the right cooler can provide peace of mind. How? Well, there are many reasons.

In this guide, we’ll explore why selecting the best cooler for hunting is so important as well as the key factors to consider when purchasing and how to make the best decision for your needs. Let’s dive right in.

Why Choosing the Right Cooler is Critical for Hunters

As we mentioned, having a reliable cooler can make a big difference when hunting, especially on multi-day trips in remote areas. Why, though? Here are a few reasons why the right cooler is so important:

1. Preserving Meat in the Field: After harvesting an animal, it's really important to get it into a cooler to preserve the meat as quickly as possible. Without proper cooling, meat can spoil in just a few hours, especially in warmer climates. A cooler with excellent ice retention keeps the temperature low enough to prevent spoilage until you're ready to process the meat.
2. Extending Your Time in the Field: For hunters looking to maximize their time, a durable cooler lets you stay longer in remote locations without needing to return home to store your meat. With the right cooler, you can focus on your hunt and not worry about your perishables.
3. Multi-purpose Storage: Not only will your cooler store game, but it will also hold your food, drinks, and even gear you want to keep cold or dry. A high-quality cooler is essential for an organized and efficient hunt.

Key Factors to Consider When Evaluating Coolers for Hunting

When it comes to choosing the best cooler, there are several key factors hunters should take into account. While many coolers on the market claim to be suitable for outdoor use, only a few meet the rigorous demands of hunting trips. Here’s what to look for in your next cooler:

• Ice Retention: Arguably the most important factor, ice retention determines how long the cooler can keep ice frozen and items cold. For hunting, especially when dealing with fresh meat, you’ll want a cooler that can maintain ice for several days. Cordova coolers, for example, are designed to retain ice for up to 10 days, making them ideal for longer hunts.
• Durability: Hunters need gear that can withstand the harshest conditions, from rocky terrains to unpredictable weather. Look for coolers made from high-density polyethylene with sturdy, rotomolded construction. Coolers like the  Cordova 88 QT Basecamp cooler are built to be bear-resistant, meaning they can survive encounters with wildlife and rough handling in the back of your truck.
• Size and Capacity: Your cooler needs to be large enough to store your game. If you’re hunting big game like deer or elk, you’ll need a cooler with enough room to fit large cuts of meat. Smaller game or waterfowl hunters can opt for a more compact cooler, but for big-game hunters, the  Cordova 88 QT Basecamp cooler offers 88 quarts of space, ideal for large game and additional supplies.
• Portability: Even the largest coolers should be portable. Consider how easy loading, unloading, and transporting a cooler is before buying it. Features like rope handles, wheels, and non-slip feet can make a big difference when hauling heavy game. Cordova’s coolers, for instance, are designed with top-mount lid latches and built-in handles for easier handling, even when fully loaded.
• Bear Resistance: In some hunting environments, bears can be a real concern. A bear-resistant cooler ensures your game, food, and other essentials stay safe from wildlife. The  Cordova 88 QT Basecamp cooler is certified bear-resistant by the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC), offering peace of mind when hunting in bear country.
• Drainage System: Efficient drainage is important for long hunts. Look for a cooler with an easy-to-use drain plug that allows you to release melted ice without tipping the cooler. Cordova coolers are equipped with a high-efficiency drain system designed to quickly empty excess water while keeping contents secure.

How to Pick the Best Cooler for Your Hunting Needs

Now that you understand the key features to evaluate, it’s time to choose the best cooler for your specific hunting needs. There are a few things you need to consider when it comes to your hunting needs and a cooler: 

• Consider the Length of Your Hunt: For short hunts, you may be able to get away with a smaller cooler that offers decent ice retention for a day or two. However, if you're going on multi-day hunts or camping out in the field, a high-capacity cooler with extended ice retention, like the Cordova 88 QT Basecamp cooler, is essential.
• Think About the Climate: If you're hunting in warmer climates, prioritize coolers with top-tier insulation and ice retention. In colder environments, you may not need as much ice retention, but durability and portability will still be key.
• Match Cooler Size to Your Game: The size of the cooler you need depends on the size of the game you're hunting. For elk or deer, you'll want a large cooler capable of storing significant cuts of meat. Smaller animals or day hunts might only require a compact, portable cooler.
• Budget vs. Features: While budget is always a consideration, investing in a high-quality cooler will pay off in the long run. Cheap coolers may fail to keep your meat cool for long enough, leading to wasted game and more frustration. Cordova coolers, though premium in price, offer exceptional value with their long-lasting durability, high ice retention, and bear-resistance features.

Cordova 88 QT Basecamp Cooler: A Top Pick for Hunters

When it comes to choosing a cooler that meets all the demands of hunting, the Cordova 88 QT Basecamp hard cooler stands out. With 88 quarts of capacity, this cooler is perfect for big-game hunters. Its superior ice retention ensures that your game stays fresh for days, even in challenging environments.

This cooler’s bear-resistant certification makes it ideal for those hunting in remote, bear-prone areas, and its rugged construction can withstand harsh treatment. Cordova’s innovative lid latches and built-in bottle opener also add convenience, making it a multi-functional tool in the field.

Picking the best cooler for hunters requires careful consideration of your hunting needs, game size, and the terrain. Durability, ice retention, and bear resistance are key features to look for in any hunting cooler, and coolers from Cordova are an excellent choice for hunters who want dependable, high-performance options.

By choosing the right cooler, you’ll protect your hard-earned game, enjoy longer hunting trips, and ensure that your hunt is a success. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or planning your first big game trip, having a cooler that meets your needs is essential for a rewarding experience.