Our Choice Recommendation
- FLOATING COOLER - Save space in your small watercraft and tow the CreekKooler.
- INSULATED DESIGN - Two inches of insulation is injected into the hull and deck, giving CreekKooler an ice retention...
- TOWABLE - Tow the CreekKooler behind small watercrafts, float in the water or drag across dry ground.
Do you love kayaking and taking trips on the water?
Have you had trouble in the past with a heavy or bulky cooler?
Are you looking for a cooler that will be perfect for your boating trips?
Often, taking a cooler on a boat can be quite tough, especially if it is bulky. But this is where we can help you! In this article, we are sharing with you a long list of coolers that are made specifically for watercrafts, to ensure that you get the best cool water or cool drink experience, even when you are out kayaking.
You can read through our detailed review of these paddlecraft coolers that are easily available online, with links shared here for your convenience. Check the price range for each, as well as detailed features and pros and cons, so that you can make a better buying choice.
Is it easy to take a cooler with you on a watercraft?
Two things you need to keep in mind when carrying something on your boat is the issue of limited space and limited weight capacity. With all these constraints, you also want something to hold your necessities comfortably.
Finding a cooler specifically designed for a paddlecraft can work well for your water trips.
9 boating coolers you can buy on Amazon for your paddling trips
Option #1
Permian Coolers Portable Insulated Cooler Bag 15L Premium Sailing Gear
For any outdoor activity, the PERMIAN Coolers Portable Cooler Bag with Roll Top is the ideal ally. This insulated, waterproof dry bag has a multi-layered sack with a unique air-valve for unsurpassed insulation and is made to keep ice cold for up to 30 hours. The roll top dry bag is the ideal hands-free gear for both large and small expeditions since it is leakproof and features welded seams that prevent ice from melting and water from entering. It also has a sturdy outer bag and a padded shoulder strap with strong metal fittings for reinforcement. This floating cooler backpack’s 15 liter capacity allows it to accommodate up to 12 cans and ice bricks, or 5 bottles of wine! Fold the opening of the cooler three times to form a seal after adding food, beverages, and ice bricks (or ice) within. On the opposite side of the folded top, bring the two clasps together and lock them. Your bag is now ready for travel!
There are several drawbacks to the PERMIAN Coolers portable cooler bag, though. Because the seams are not sealed as claimed, water may leak out of various seams, making the area around it damp. However, when put through lengthy tests lasting four days or longer, it may utterly fail since, upon initial use, melting ice may leak from inside into the cooler’s intermediate insulation layer.
Despite these drawbacks, this practical cooler nevertheless offers a number of advantages that make it worthwhile to take into account. Although lightweight, it is strong enough to withstand any outdoor activity you throw at it, including paddling excursions, beach days with friends, and camping vacations! When not in use, it folds up small and may be carried as a backpack or thrown over one shoulder. If it is correctly closed, nothing can escape, and if it falls off your paddle board by accident, it will float! Also, it has two walls with padding between them to safeguard your contents, and an air vent offers additional insulation. As a result, you will always have access to cold beverages throughout the day.
Pros
- Well-made
- Perfect size
- Snug fit for your watercraft
Cons
- Some leaking still occurs
Option #2
Fatboy Backpack Soft Cooler Watercraft and Canoe Floating Dry Bag
Anyone wishing to keep their belongings cold and dry while on the water should consider the Fatboy Backpack Soft Cooler Boat and Canoe Floating Dry Bag . This bag’s 20 liter size makes it ideal for a day of kayaking or fishing because it can contain up to 24 to 30 12-ounce cans with ice. It has an IP66 Level 3 Waterproof rating, a 600 denier waterproof outer shell, and a waterproof, food-safe inner liner, creating a dual waterproof barrier that allows it to float and withstand brief underwater submersion. The front elastic keeper cord offers alternatives for external packing, and the equalizing valve allows for the addition or removal of air from the Fatpack. Moreover, the dual mesh water bottle pockets and top grab/carry handle make it simple to tote your items.
Moreover, the Fatboy has integrated back padding and padded backpack straps for safety, comfort, and durability when transporting large items. Moreover, a chest strap is included for connecting the pack straps. Because it is constructed of canvas, this bag is strong enough to handle normal wear and tear. Additionally, when used with ice packs in warm weather, its insulation keeps drinks cold all day long.
However, there are certain drawbacks to take into account before buying this product. First off, after a few hours of use, the shoulder pad straps might become unpleasant when carrying big things. Second, if improperly handled or crowded with objects, the inner lining may rip away from seams. The top does not have a zipper closure, which could result in leaks if not properly closed.
Despite these drawbacks, this product still has a lot of benefits that make it worthwhile to take into account for outdoor activities like boating or fishing expeditions. When used with ice packs in hot weather, its insulation keeps drinks cool all day long, keeping your catch fresh. Its waterproof structure also allows it to float even when fully laden in most applications. It will also last through numerous uses with no problems because to the sturdy canvas construction. In conclusion, this product is a fantastic option for anyone searching for a reliable, economical way to keep their belongings cool and dry while on the water.
Pros
- Keeps cool all day
- Thick durable lining
- Spacious
Cons
- Flimsy front drawstring material
Option #3
Wilderness Systems Oval Orbix Hatch Cooler for Boats
Every kayaker’s equipment should include the Wilderness Systems Oval Orbix Hatch Cooler . This simple add-on device fits any Wilderness Systems paddlecraft with an oval Orbix hatch and transforms your hatch into an insulated cooler. For optimum defense against leaks and splashes, it has fry-welded seams, a long-lasting polyurethane-coated 420D rip stop nylon structure, and a water-resistant zipper. The internal measurements are 12.5″L x 7.8″W x 5.5″H, offering 8 liters of storage space for beverages and snacks all day. The easy-grab handle makes transportation on land a joy, while the insulation of 12″ closed cell EPE foam keeps the contents cool all day. Its cooler’s exterior measurements are 15.25″L x 9.5″W x 6″H, and it lies flush with the opening of oval Orbix hatches allowing easy access to food and drinks throughout the day.
Despite the fact that this product has many benefits, there are a few drawbacks to take into account. First of all, the product is pretty pricey for what is simply a lunch box; therefore, if you’re seeking for something bigger or more insulated, you might want to search elsewhere. Also, not all paddlecrafts can accommodate it effectively, likely those with skegs or limited space, so make sure to double-check compatibility before buying this item. The product should not be used in deep water or submerged in any way because it is not submersible; doing so could result in harm to the device or the inner parts of your watercraft.
If your boat is a suitable type and has an Oval Orbix hatch system placed on it, there are still many fantastic use cases for this product that make it worthwhile to investigate. Due to its snug fit design that doesn’t rattle as you paddle or drift along nature’s picturesque spots, it offers a fantastic solution for keeping small items like keys and cell phones safe while you’re out on the water without taking up too much space in your drywell area or compromising your boat’s balance! Also, because of its insulating qualities, it keeps food and beverages cold all day, making it perfect for afternoon outings where all you need is a few drinks and nibbles!
Pros
- Spacious
- Waterproof
- Compact
Cons
- Pricey
Option #4
Perception Splash Tankwell Cooler for Watercrafts
Anyone who wants to keep their food and drinks cold all day while kayaking should get the Perception Splash Tankwell Cooler . The majority of sit-on-top boats’ open storage compartments (tank wells) can accommodate this cooler, which is functional enough for daily use. With a 40L capacity, it has 12 inch insulating foam that keeps beverages and food cool all day (20 cans assuming 1:1 ratio of ice). It is simple to reach your belongings thanks to the top zippered entrance, and carrying it is made simple by the robust pull handle and adjustable shoulder straps in the backpack design. Long boat rides benefit from the low-profile shape’s reduced wind resistance.
Also, this cooler has some fantastic extra features. It includes a water-resistant zipper, fabrics that are waterproof, and RF welded interior seams that keep splash and rain out. It also has four D-rings that are situated in each corner that allow you to securely fasten it to your paddlecraft. Heavy-duty materials are used in the bottom panel to provide durability where it is most needed. Perception Splash Pocket organizers and Perception Splash Rod holders are compatible upgrades.
Despite the fact that this cooler is excellent for keeping your stuff chilled all day, there are certain drawbacks to take into account before buying. This cooler is not meant to be submerged or used to store fish, and because of its size—21.5″L x 8″H x 17.75″W (10″W at the taper side)—it might not fit in all paddlecrafts. The shoulder straps may also be too short if you’re carrying heavier stuff inside the cooler, despite the fact that they’re useful for portability.
This cooler still has several advantages that make it worthwhile to take into consideration in spite of these possible shortcomings. With its adjustable straps and low profile design, it is perfect for extended boat voyages without being impacted by wind or waves. Its sturdy construction ensures that your belongings will be protected from splashes and rain while you’re out on the lake or river. Also, you may further tailor your experience with appropriate additions like Perception Splash Rod holders and Pocket organizers, all of which are sold separately.
Pros
- Compact
- Easy access
- Spacious
- Balances well in strong winds
Cons
- Flimsy zipper seam
Option #5
Precision-Pak Tournament Watercraft Fishing Catch Cooler on/Offshore Angler Yakcatch III
For tournament and offshore anglers, especially boat fishermen, the Precision-Pak Tournament Paddlecraft Fishing Catch Cooler on/Offshore Angler Yakcatch III is the best option. The sturdy 420D/PU ripstop polyester used to create this insulated fish storage system is lined with reflective thermal material and thoroughly cushioned with closed-cell foam. Also, it has a detachable dry tube made of eco-friendly PEVA material with a thickness of 0.2mm that is ideal for protecting personal things from water. The bag has a large Velcro-secured end cap for larger fish and a long center Velcro opening for convenient access to the interior from the top. For a strong tie down and carry handle on both sides, there are six heavy-duty locking clips on the edges. This bag’s measurements of 15.75″ x 9.75″ x 42″ make it perfect for larger catches while still small enough to fit in the majority of watercrafts.
Also, the Precision-Pak Tournament Watercraft Fishing Catch Cooler has some outstanding extra features that set it apart from other coolers available on the market. It is very adaptable and practical in a variety of situations, for instance, having an inner liner that can be taken out and used as a soft shell for half-size guitars during river cruises. A carrying strap is also included, making it more simpler than ever to transport your catch!
The lack of a zipper closure in the middle of the bag means that once you’ve put a good fish inside, you won’t be able to open or close it again without running the danger of harming your catch or the equipment within. Extra caution should be used when using this product since some consumers have claimed that the inner material can be easily perforated if not handled correctly.
Even with these minor flaws, this cooler still has a ton of benefits that make it worthwhile to take into account if you’re searching for an insulated fish storage system made especially for boat-using tournament and offshore anglers. With its reflective thermal lining and closed cell foam padding, it offers good protection against water damage and temperature variations while being lightweight and transportable. Also, because to its adaptability, users can utilize it in a variety of situations, such as keeping personal goods out of the water or even using the inner liner as a soft shell guitar case while floating down a river! Overall, this cooler offers a wealth of advantages that make it a great option for any serious angler looking.
Pros
- Keeps things cool.
- Spacious
- Separate compartments
Cons
- Inner material may be easily damaged
Option #6
TCYC Deluxe Yakcatch Cooler for Paddlecraft & Canoe Fishing Angler
Any angler wishing to preserve their catch fresh and safe will find the TCYC Deluxe Yakcatch Cooler for Watercraft & Canoe Fishing Angler to be the ideal addition. This robust cooler is constructed from tough 600D/PU water resistant polyester, fully padded with thick closed-cell foam, and lined with a strong, heat-sealed eco mesh material. It has a long central zipper for easy inside access, six locking clips along the edges for safe tying down, and carry handles on both sides. With measurements of W15.75″ x H9.75″ x L42″, it is ideal for keeping your catch fresh all day.
Also, this cooler has some outstanding extra features that set it apart from competing goods in its category. It has a detachable 0.2mm PEVA grey dry tube that is constructed of environmentally friendly material and intended to keep personal goods out of the water (not for fish). Moreover, there are two padded handles for carrying comfort and top clips for holding bulky accessories like life jackets or other waterproof items.
One potential drawback of this product is that some customers have complained that the provided grey dry bag is very thin and they don’t like it. Also, while it will keep drinks and snacks cold for a day, this cooler might not be the best if you want to mount it on a boat. If you want to use it in this fashion, you might need something smaller.
Despite these potential drawbacks, using this product has many benefits, especially if you fish offshore or in competitions. There are numerous straps and latches to secure it in place, and it fits precisely on the front part of the majority of boats. Moreover, it has a padded interior and a dry bag for non-fish personal things. As the bow bag is large enough to fit the stern bag inside of it, it’s also excellent for day outings.
Pros
- Water drain out feature.
- Easy to access.
- Clips to front bungees.
Cons
- Thin and cheaply made material.
- Not waterproof.
Option #7
CreekKooler Floating Cooler Tow on Rivers and Lakes with Canoe or Paddlecraft,
Any outdoor enthusiast should have a CreekKooler in their arsenal. With its dual-wall design and top-notch insulation, this patented floating cooler’s outstanding ice retention of up to 48 hours is made possible. The CreekKooler effortlessly maneuvers behind your watercraft, canoe, SUP, or raft on any surface. Users can attach it to their boat or canoe with tow points so that their preferred drinks and foods are always nearby.
This 30-quart cooler is ideal for a day spent boating or fishing because it can contain up to 30 12-ounce cans and 20 pounds of ice. In order to keep your drinks secure while you’re out on the water, it also has four drink holders on the deck. The CreekKooler has strengthened tow points to keep your equipment safe and within reach in addition to a sizable water-tight locking cover that keeps your storage safe and secure. Your products will keep cold for longer thanks to the foam insulation in this container.
While this product is excellent for keeping things cool and safe when boating, there are a few drawbacks to be aware of. One problem is that, when being towed behind a boat or canoe, the rope handles might not be sturdy enough to endure repeated heavy use; they might fall away or break if tugged too hard. Customers have also mentioned having trouble closing the lid owing to misalignment; if too much force is applied when attempting to close it while in a boat or other small watercraft, this could cause the vessel to capsize.
The CreekKooler still has many benefits for outdoor enthusiasts searching for a simple way to keep their belongings while on the water, despite these possible drawbacks. Its sturdy design guarantees that it will withstand many usage without breaking down easily, and its excellent insulation keeps things cool for a long time—ideal for hot summer days! Furthermore, you won’t have to worry about losing it in the middle of your adventure thanks to its reinforced tow points, which make it simple to connect firmly behind any sort of boat or canoe! All in all, this product offers a great option for anyone searching for a dependable way to keep their belongings secure when on a lake or river!
Pros
- Keeps cool long.
- Floats well.
- Good storage.
Cons
- Not entirely watertight.
Option #8
Earth Pak Heavy Duty Waterproof Soft Cooler Bag for Camping, Sports, Fishing, Boating, Beach Trips
For any outdoor trip, the Earth Pak Heavy Duty Waterproof 20-Can Soft Cooler Bag is the ideal ally. With its well-insulated interior and sturdy zipper, this cooler bag is made to keep your food and beverages cold for days. It has a mesh tote insert for easy access products and can accommodate up to 20 cans of your favorite beverages. It is simple to empty water from the cooler without having to remove each item one at a time thanks to the pull-out internal tote. Moreover, this cooler comes with a bottle cap opener and a variety of connection choices.
Anybody seeking for a high performance cooler without breaking the bank should consider this cooler because it is well made and costs less than a Yeti. We drove from San Diego, which is essentially at sea level, to Yosemite Valley, which is at 4,000 feet, without opening the cooler, and when we did, the air popped out like a bag of chips! The zipper may seem tight at first, but that’s because it’s intended to keep cold air inside and prevent leaking. We’ve used this cooler on numerous outings in temperatures as high as 90 degrees, and we’ve been amazed by how well it retains cold even two days after being filled with ice.
There are some drawbacks, though, that should be mentioned. Because to how tight the zipper can be, you might need to use the included lubrication or bar soap if you need to open and shut it. Also, even though this cooler can keep goods cold for days, it might not be able to keep liquids cold for 12 hours straight in warm weather or ice frozen.
This Earth Pak Heavy Duty Waterproof 20-Can Soft Cooler Bag is a great option for anyone searching for a dependable solution to store their food and beverages while outside, even with these small downsides. It works well to keep things cold in warm weather and will last you through several travels before needing replacement. Also, you’ll appreciate all the amenities that come with the product, such as the bottle cap opener and the pull-out internal mesh bag, which make utilizing the cooler easy and fun.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Spacious
- Rugged
Cons
- Ice melts fast
Option #9
Wilderness Systems Insulated Catch Cooler for Paddlecrafts
Any paddlecraft angler will love the Wilderness Systems Insulated Catch Cooler for Watercrafts . The majority of Wilderness Systems sit-on-top boats can accommodate this highly insulated cooler, which has distinct compartments and access ports for holding your fish and beverages. TPU coated rip-stop 420 denier nylon, which can endure sharp fish fins and is easy to clean, is used to make the interior. The tankwell’s surplus water can drain thanks to the sturdy bottom and elevated beams, and mesh nets on the top offer additional storage.
This cooler is excellent for keeping food and beverages cold all day long and your catch fresh. Also, it is made to fit in the majority of sit-on-top paddlecrafts from Wilderness Systems as well as other manufacturers, so you won’t need to worry about it not fitting in your boat. The solid construction prevents walls from being pierced by fish fins, and the distinct compartments make it simple to arrange your belongings. Extra storage space for tiny goods like lures or bait is also provided by the mesh pouch on top.
Because of its stiff backside structure, one drawback of this product is that it could leak water once the ice melts. The fabric ends of the zipper have also reportedly torn after a few uses, which causes it to fall off of track when fully unzipped, according to several users.
This cooler still has several benefits that make it a fantastic option for watercraft anglers despite these drawbacks. Sharp fish fins won’t be able to readily pierce through it because to its robust material and well insulated construction, which keeps drinks cold and your catch fresh all day long. Also, its distinct compartments make it simple to organize stuff, and its mesh pouch offers additional storage space for little items like lures or bait. In conclusion, this cooler is a fantastic option for those searching for a dependable solution to keep their catch fresh and drinks cold during their fishing expeditions!
Pros
- Easy to store.
- Sturdy zippers.
- Cleans well.
Cons
- Leaks
3 top boat coolers among the listed products
We loved these 3 paddlecraft coolers for the following reasons:
- Permian Coolers Portable Insulated Cooler Bag 15L Premium Sailing Gear – durability, ease of use and pricing.
- Perception Splash Tankwell Cooler for Watercrafts – special features to minimize wind impact, great storage features.
- Precision-Pak Tournament Watercraft Fishing Catch Cooler on/Offshore Angler Yakcatch III – storage, separate compartments, reasonable pricing.
Now that you have seen the different features of the boat coolers, we are sure you have a better idea of which one will suit your need the best. When selecting one of the above for your own kayaking trip needs, make sure to keep in mind the space, weight limit and other features of the paddlecraft you will use.
5 Essential Tips for Choosing the Best Boating Cooler
- Choose a cooler that is designed to fit your paddlecraft. This will ensure that it fits securely and won't move around while you're paddling.
- Look for a cooler with an insulated lid to keep your food and drinks cold for longer.
- Make sure the cooler has enough space to store all of your items. Consider how much food and drinks you'll need for your trip, as well as any other items you may want to bring along.
- Choose a cooler with a waterproof seal to keep water out and protect your items from getting wet.
- Look for a cooler with straps or handles so that it's easy to carry when you're not on the water.
ALSO: Consider purchasing a watercraft-specific cooler, which is designed specifically for use in watercrafts and can provide extra stability while paddling!
Additional Helpful Info For Readers
They are an important piece of gear for anyone who wants to stay out on the water for a long time in a paddlecraft. They not only make it easy to store food and drinks, but they also help keep things cold and fresh. They come in different sizes, shapes, and materials, so you can find one that is perfect for your needs. They are made to be lightweight but strong enough to stand up to the weather and provide enough insulation. Many of them also have waterproof zippers or lids that will keep your things dry even if you take a swim. Because they are small and easy to carry, these things make it easy to bring snacks and drinks out to the lake or river without worrying about them getting wet or going bad.
Usage And Application: How Can They Be Used?
There are three main ways to use these coolers. First, they are great for keeping food and drinks cool while on the water. This is especially helpful if you plan to watercraft for a long time and need to keep your food and drinks cool. Second, you can use them to store things like fishing gear, sunscreen, and other small things you might need during your trip. Lastly, you can use these coolers as anchors when fishing from a boat. Fill the cooler with rocks or sand, and then use a rope or bungee cord to tie it to the paddlecraft. This will help hold your watercraft in place so you don't have to worry about it moving away from where you want to fish. When you add up all of these uses, it's easy to see why these coolers are so popular among kayakers who want their trips to be easy and flexible.
The Cons: What To Expect
There are a few drawbacks to keep in mind despite the many advantages of these paddling devices. First of all, when packed with food and beverages, they may become rather hefty and substantial. Because of this, moving your boat in confined locations or through shallow water may be challenging. Due of its size and form, the cooler's insulation may not be as efficient as that of a conventional cooler. This implies that if left outside in the sun or exposed to extreme temperatures, goods kept inside could not keep cold for very long. It's critical to spend money on a high-quality paddlecraft cooler with effective insulation to counteract these drawbacks. Additionally, when on the lake, you should always keep your cooler in the shade and fill it with lots of ice or frozen goods before leaving. Find a model with adjustable straps if at all feasible so you can fasten it firmly to your watercraft for simpler transporting.
What Factors Should Be Used To Evaluate Them?
The most crucial quantitative factors to consider while assessing them are insulating capacity, weight, size, and durability. The longer a cooler can keep things chilled or frozen, the better; the larger the insulating capacity, the better. When hauling a boat cooler, weight is an essential consideration; lighter versions are simpler to carry and store. Size is crucial since it affects how much food and liquids can fit within the cooler. Last but not least, toughness is essential for a paddlecraft cooler; designs with thicker walls and reinforced corners will endure longer and offer greater defense against damage.
Basic User Experience: What You Should Know
When you're out on the water, these kayaker products are a great way to keep your food and drinks cold. They are made to fit snugly in the watercraft so they don't take up too much room or add too much weight. Depending on how warm it is outside, the insulation is usually thick enough to keep things cold for several hours. Some models even come with straps that can be used to keep them in place. With these products, it's also easy to get snacks and drinks without having to get up from your seat or paddle around. Because they are small and easy to carry, they are perfect for anyone who wants to spend a day on the water without having to worry about their food going bad.
In practice, follow these instructions to use these coolers: To begin, ensure that your cooler is firmly secured to your boat. Fill it with ice and any other objects you wish to keep cool. Third, carefully seal the lid and secure it with straps or bungee cords. Fourth, ensure that all of the seals are secure and that no water may enter or exit. Fifth, if you're planning a lengthy vacation, include a couple frozen water bottles to help keep everything cold for extended periods of time. Finally, while out on the lake, enjoy some cool beverages and food! You may simply utilize a paddlecraft cooler to keep refreshed on your paddling trips if you follow these easy procedures.
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