RTIC Outdoors has established itself as a leading name in the high-performance cooler market. Known for offering durable, rotomolded coolers at a more accessible price point than many premium competitors, RTIC provides a wide range of products designed for camping, fishing, tailgating, and everyday use. Understanding the differences between their hard-sided and soft-sided models is essential for selecting the right gear for your specific needs.
Understanding Rotomolded Technology
The primary reason RTIC hard coolers are highly regarded is the use of rotational molding, often called rotomolding. This manufacturing process involves a heated mold filled with plastic that is slowly rotated, ensuring the walls of the cooler are a consistent thickness throughout. This eliminates weak spots and creates a single-piece, seamless structure that is incredibly durable.
Beyond durability, rotomolding allows for a thick layer of pressure-injected polyurethane foam insulation. This insulation, combined with the thick plastic walls, is what enables these coolers to keep ice frozen for several days, even in high temperatures. Because the lid and the body are built with this dense insulation, the cooler acts as a highly efficient thermal barrier.
RTIC Hard Cooler Lineup
RTIC’s hard-sided coolers are built for heavy-duty use and long-term ice retention. They are categorized by their internal volume, measured in quarts. Choosing the right size depends on the duration of your trip and the number of people you are accommodating.
RTIC 20 QT Compact Cooler
The 20-quart model is designed for personal use or short day trips. It is small enough to be carried by one person and fits easily in the trunk of a car or on the floor of a backseat. It typically holds up to 24 cans plus ice, making it a popular choice for solo fishing trips or afternoon picnics.
RTIC 45 QT Mid-Size Cooler
The 45-quart model is often considered the “sweet spot” for many users. It offers enough space for a weekend camping trip for two people. It is manageable in weight while still providing enough room for food, drinks, and a significant amount of ice.
RTIC 65 QT Large Capacity Cooler
For extended trips or larger groups, the 65-quart cooler is the standard choice. This model can hold enough supplies for a small family for several days. Because of its size and weight when full, it often requires two people to carry it using the integrated rope handles.
Ultra-Light Series
Recognizing that traditional rotomolded coolers can be very heavy, RTIC introduced the Ultra-Light series. These coolers use different manufacturing techniques to reduce weight by up to 30% compared to standard rotomolded models without significantly sacrificing ice retention. They are ideal for users who prioritize portability but still need high-end cooling performance.
RTIC Soft Cooler Options
Soft coolers are designed for portability and convenience. While they do not offer the multi-day ice retention of hard coolers, they are much lighter and easier to transport over long distances.
- Soft Pak Coolers: These are available in various sizes (12, 20, 30, and 40 cans). They feature a heavy-duty nylon shell that is puncture-resistant and a leak-proof zipper.
- Backpack Coolers: These models feature padded straps, allowing you to carry your food and drinks hands-free. They are excellent for hiking, beach trips, or festivals.
- Everyday Coolers: These are lightweight, collapsible options intended for grocery shopping or carrying a lunch to work.
Key Features of RTIC Coolers
RTIC coolers include several functional features that enhance their utility in the field. These design elements are focused on ease of use and maintaining a cold environment for as long as possible.
Heavy-Duty Latches and Gaskets
RTIC hard coolers use T-shaped rubber latches that create a tight seal between the lid and the base. Combined with a freezer-grade 360-degree rubber gasket, this seal prevents warm air from entering and cold air from escaping, which is vital for ice longevity.
Integrated Tie-Down Slots
To ensure the cooler stays in place during transport, RTIC includes molded-in tie-down slots. This allows you to secure the cooler to a truck bed, boat deck, or trailer without preventing the lid from opening. This is a crucial safety and convenience feature for outdoor enthusiasts.
Rapid V-Drain System
Hard coolers feature an oversized drain plug that allows for quick and easy draining of melted ice. The internal floor of the cooler is slightly slanted toward the drain, ensuring that water flows out completely without needing to tip the cooler excessively.
How to Maximize Ice Retention
While RTIC coolers are designed for high performance, the way you use the cooler significantly impacts how long the ice lasts. Following a few simple steps can extend ice life from two days to five or more.
- Pre-Chill the Cooler: If you store your cooler in a hot garage, the insulation will hold that heat. Bring it inside the night before use and put a “sacrificial” bag of ice inside to cool down the internal foam.
- Use Chilled Contents: Putting warm soda or room-temperature water into a cooler will cause the ice to melt rapidly as it works to cool the items. Always refrigerate food and drinks before packing them.
- Minimize Air Space: Air is the enemy of ice. Fill the cooler as much as possible. If you have extra space at the top, fill it with more ice or a towel to prevent warm air from circulating.
- Keep the Lid Closed: Every time you open the lid, you let out cold air and let in warm air. Try to limit the number of times the cooler is opened throughout the day.
- Use the Right Ice: Block ice lasts much longer than cubed ice. A combination of block ice at the bottom and cubed ice to fill the gaps around items is usually the most effective strategy.
Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance ensures your RTIC cooler lasts for many years. Because these coolers are often used in outdoor environments, they can accumulate dirt, odors, and bacteria if not cleaned correctly.
After every use, wash the interior with a mixture of mild soap and warm water. For stubborn stains or odors, a solution of water and baking soda can be very effective. It is important to leave the lid open after cleaning until the interior is completely dry to prevent the growth of mold or mildew.
Periodically check the rubber gaskets and latches for signs of wear. While these components are durable, they can eventually dry out or crack. Keeping them clean and occasionally applying a food-grade silicone protectant can help maintain their flexibility and sealing power.
Choosing the Right RTIC Product
When deciding between models, consider your primary activity. If you are a solo traveler who needs a cooler for day trips, a Soft Pak or a 20 QT hard cooler is usually sufficient. If you are a family that enjoys week-long camping trips, the 65 QT or 110 QT models are more appropriate.
Weight is also a significant factor. A fully loaded 65 QT rotomolded cooler can weigh over 100 pounds. If you anticipate needing to move the cooler frequently by yourself, the Ultra-Light series or a wheeled model should be your top consideration. RTIC offers several wheeled options that provide the same insulation benefits with the added convenience of easy transport.
RTIC coolers provide a reliable solution for anyone needing to keep items cold in demanding conditions. By selecting the right size and following best practices for ice retention, you can ensure your food and beverages stay fresh throughout your journey. To learn more about outdoor gear and home organization, explore our other guides on practical lifestyle solutions.