Coolers & Fridges

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A good cooler makes a serious difference on a multi-day camping trip — keeping food safe, drinks cold, and ice lasting as long as possible. Whether you're car camping at a DOC site, heading out on the boat, or setting up a base camp for the weekend, the right cooler depends on how long you need ice to last and how far you're carrying it. Hard-sided coolers offer the best insulation and ice retention for extended trips. Soft coolers are lighter and more packable for day trips and festivals. Portable electric fridges are the premium option for road trips and vehicle-based camping — no ice required, consistent temperature throughout. Choosing the Right Option Hard-sided cooler: Best ice retention — Coleman hard coolers hold ice 3–5 days with proper technique. Suited to multi-day car camping, boat use, and any situation where food safety over several days matters. Soft cooler: Lighter and more packable. Good for day trips, beach use, and festivals where you're moving the cooler frequently. Ice retention is shorter — typically 12–24 hours. Portable electric fridge: The premium choice for road trips and vehicle-based camping. Maintains a set temperature without ice, runs off 12V or 240V. More expensive upfront but eliminates the ongoing cost and hassle of ice. Maximising Ice Retention Ice retention depends as much on technique as the cooler itself. Key tips: pre-chill the cooler with ice or cold water for an hour before loading — a warm cooler burns through ice fast. Use block ice rather than cubed (block ice melts slower). Minimise lid openings. Keep the cooler in shade and cover with a blanket or towel. A full cooler retains temperature better than a half-empty one. Frequently Asked Questions How long does ice last in a camping cooler? In a quality hard-sided cooler like Coleman's range, block ice lasts 3–5 days under typical NZ summer conditions when the cooler is pre-chilled, kept in shade, and opened minimally. Cubed ice lasts 1–2 days less. Soft coolers typically ho