You know what they say, there's no rest for the wicked. And if you're like me, that means you spend your weekend's kayaking and fishing to try and catch a break from the weekday grind. But even when I'm out on the open water, I can't help but think about ways to make my weekend adventures even better.
That's where kayak coolers come in. A good kayak cooler can mean the difference between a great day on the water and a perfect day on the water. With all of the different options out there, it can be tough to know which one is right for you – but don't worry, I'm here to help!
In this article, I'll introduce you to some of the best coolers for kayaking on the market today. Whether you're looking for something small and portable or big and durable, I've got you covered. So sit back, relax, and let me show you how to keep your drinks cold – even on the hottest days!
Read on to check out our top picks for kayak coolers!
We hope you find your next favorite thing from the kayak coolers below! Each one was carefully selected by our editors and a few may have been sent as samples for us to evaluate, but all opinions in this article are our own. GroundedReviews may collect a share of the sales or compensation from the links on this page if you decide to buy something (at no additional cost to you). Our reviews have been edited for length and clarity. Enjoy finding your next favorite thing!
How We Selected These Kayak Coolers
It can be tough to know which kayak cooler is the best for you, especially with all the different products on the market.
Do you really want to spend unnecessary time researching or worse - wasting your time or money on the wrong product?
Not to worry, our expert reviewers have spent the time reviewing the best products for your needs! In this article, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about the top kayak coolers so that you can make an informed decision and get out on the water faster.
Why It's a Great Choice:
Looking for a soft sided cooler bag that will keep you kayaking all day long? Look no further than the Yakhacker Kayak Cooler. This bad boy is designed to keep your food and drinks ice cold for up to 16 hours, so you can paddle without having to worry about being parched or famished. Plus, it features a top-opening zipper for easy access, even when you're seated in your kayak. So don't let a little thing like a hot sun stop you from enjoying all the outdoors has to offer – bring along the Yakhacker Kayak Cooler!
Top Things to Know:
The Yakhacker Kayak Cooler bag can be attached to all lawn-chair style kayak seats with the included strong bungee ball system, and it also features an adjustable and removable padded shoulder strap for easy transport. Additionally, the water-resistant pocket is perfect for storing small items like snacks, keys, or a wallet, and the water-resistant zipper helps to keep everything safe from rain or waves.
Why It's a Great Choice:
If you're looking for a compact cooler bag for your kayak that will make your next adventure even more enjoyable, look no further than the Perception Splash Seat Back Cooler! This sleek and slim cooler sits right against your seat-back, providing easy access to all of your drinks and food while you're paddling. Plus, the zippered opening on top makes it super convenient to grab whatever you need without having to get up out of your seat. Whether you're hitting the rapids or just cruising around on a lazy Sunday afternoon, the Perception Splash Seat Back Cooler is sure to make your day a little bit better.
Top Things to Know:
The Perception Splash Seat Back Cooler features strong webbing loops and D-rings for additional lash-down options or attaching additional gear, as well as YKK water-resistant zippers and waterproof materials to keep splash and rain out. Plus, with 3/4" thick closed-cell foam, it can keep drinks and food cold all day long.
So whether you're headed out on a kayaking adventure or just to the beach, this soft cooler is a great way to keep your drinks and snacks cool and fresh.
Why It's a Great Choice:
Perception's new Splash Tankwell Cooler is perfect for keeping your food and drinks cold on those hot summer days out on the water. This soft shell cooler bag easily fits within the open storage area of most sit-on-top kayaks and comes with a convenient zippered opening on top so you can grab a quick drink without having to splash around. Whether you're out for a leisurely paddle or an intense white-water run, this cooler will help keep you hydrated and refreshed.
Top Things to Know:
The Perception Splash Tankwell Cooler features 1/2 inch insulating foam to keep ice frozen longer and drinks and food cold all day, and it has an impressive capacity of 40 liters which is enough for 20 cans and plenty of ice. It also comes with adjustable backpack style shoulder straps and a strong haul handle for easy portage, and its low-profile shape minimizes the impact of wind. Finally, it measures 21.5"L x 8"H x 17.75"W (10"W at small taper side).
Why It's a Great Choice:
Engel's LBC30-RH 30qt Live Bait Cooler is perfect for keeping your food and drinks cold on your next outdoor adventure. Not only does it keep your food and drinks cold, but it can also double as a live bait tank that is perfect for kayak anglers! The included live bait aerator pump maximizes aeration and battery life while the water-resistant housing protects the motor and suppresses noise. Keep your bait fresh for longer with this must-have versatile cooler!
Top Things to Know:
The Engel LBC30-RH is a 30qt live bait cooler that is perfect for use with kayaks. It comes in 4 different sizes, weighs between 3 and 8lbs., and has a capacity of 30 quarts. It also features rod holders, which makes it ideal for use as a live bait cooler.
So, if you're looking for a great kayak cooler to help make your next fishing or camping trip more enjoyable, the Engel LBC30-RH is a great option.
Why It's a Great Choice:
Looking to keep your drinks and snacks cool on your next kayaking adventure? Look no further than the CreekKooler PuP! This innovative cooler is designed with dual-wall construction and top-quality insulation, resulting in superior ice retention. Plus, its sleek design allows it to easily glide across all surfaces and navigate behind your kayak, canoe, SUP or raft. And with tow points that allow you to tie it to your boat or canoe, your favorite beverages and food are always within arms reach. So don't miss out on the fun – grab a CreekKooler PuP today!
Top Things to Know:
This floating ice chest cooler has a 15 quarts capacity and can hold up to 15 12-oz cans plus 10lbs of ice. It also features two drink holders located on the deck, so you can stay hydrated while you're enjoying your time outdoors. And because it's made from durable materials, the CreekKooler PuP Floating Cooler is perfect for use as both a cooler and a safe storage container. Save space on your kayak by towing this cooler behind you!
Best Kayak Cooler FAQ:
If you're planning a kayaking trip, you'll need to keep your food and drinks cold to prevent them from spoiling. A good kayak cooler can make all the difference in keeping your provisions fresh and safe to eat. But with so many different coolers on the market, how do you know which one is right for you?
We've created a list of Frequently Asked Questions about kayak coolers so that you can make an informed decision before you buy. With this information, you'll be able to find the perfect cooler for your needs and have peace of mind knowing that you made a smart purchase.
Can you put a cooler on a kayak?
Yes, you can put a cooler on a kayak. A cooler is a great way to keep food and drinks cold while you're out on the water. However, it's important to make sure that the cooler is securely attached to the kayak and won't tip over. You can use bungee cords or tie-down straps to secure the cooler to the kayak.
Most kayak coolers are designed to attach to the back of your kayak seat or to sit inside your kayak's dry storage area, or tank well. It's also a good idea to always place the cooler in the middle of the kayak for better balance and stability.
Do kayak coolers come with a warranty?
Most kayak coolers come with a warranty. However, the length of the warranty can vary from brand to brand. It's important to read the terms and conditions of the warranty before you purchase a kayak cooler to make sure you're covered in case something goes wrong.
How do I know what size kayak cooler I need?
When choosing a kayak cooler, it is important to consider the size that will best fit your needs. Some coolers are designed to fit specific kayaks, while others are a more general size. It is important to measure the available space in your kayak and compare it to the dimensions of the cooler you are considering.
Another factor to consider is how much ice you will need to keep your food and drinks cold. If you plan on spending a day on the water, you will need a larger cooler with more insulation than if you are just going out for a few hours. Consider your activity level and what you will be packing in your cooler when making your selection.
How to carry a cooler on a kayak?
Carrying a cooler on a kayak is not as difficult as it may seem. Most kayak coolers come with carrying handles for easy transport and are sized appropriately to fit onto most kayaks without issue, so the most important thing to consider is not overloading the bag. If the cooler is too large or too heavy, it can be difficult to maneuver the kayak and can even be dangerous.
Once you have determined the size and weight of the cooler that you can handle, you can use several different methods to secure the cooler to the kayak. You can use bungee cords or straps but whatever you use be sure to secure the cooler tightly and evenly to ensure that it does not move or slide around while you are paddling.
How do I care for my kayak cooler?
Proper care for your kayak cooler is important to ensure its longevity. Always make sure the cooler is completely dry before storing it away. If the cooler has any wet or sticky spots, use a mild soap and water to clean them up. Never store the cooler in direct sunlight or in a very warm area, as this can damage the insulation and lead to warping.
What are some common problems with kayak coolers?
There are a few common problems with kayak coolers: they can be difficult to carry, they can take up a lot of space, and they can be expensive. However, many kayakers find that the benefits of having a cooler on their kayak outweigh these drawbacks. For example, a cooler can help you keep your food and drinks cold on a hot day, it can help you store your gear safely, and it can even provide some extra buoyancy if you need it. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use a kayak cooler is up to you – but we recommend giving one a try!
Do sit-on kayaks have room for a cooler?
Yes, many sit-on-top kayaks have room for a cooler. The size of the cooler you can fit in your kayak will depend on the size and model of kayak you have, but most sit-on-top kayaks have enough room to fit small to medium-sized coolers without issue. Additionally, many kayaks come equipped with built-in storage compartments that are designed to accommodate cooler sizes, making it easy and convenient to bring a cooler along on your kayaking trip. Or you can get a cooler that attaches directly to the back of your kayak seat to save deck space!
Final Thoughts About Kayak Coolers
So, you’re considering buying a kayak cooler? Well, congratulations! You’ve made a great decision – one that will help you make the most of your next kayaking adventure. With a good kayak cooler by your side, you can rest assured that your food and drinks will stay cold no matter how long your journey lasts.
But with so many different coolers on the market today, which one should you choose? We’ve put together this handy guide to help make your decision easier. Scroll up and check out the best kayak cooler bags on the market right now and choose the one that is perfect for you.
Happy kayaking!
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