Hard Coolers & Chilly Bins
Hard coolers and chilly bins that hold ice for days, from compact personal coolers to big roto-moulded ice chests for the boat, the ute and family camping. Our range is led by Dometic and YETI, alongside Coleman.
Roto-moulded coolers with thick insulation and freezer-style seals keep ice the longest and survive years of hard use, while lighter chilly bins suit picnics and shorter trips. Add a dry goods basket or divider to keep food out of the meltwater, and keep drinks separate in a soft cooler so the main chilly bin stays shut.
Hard coolers are best judged in person, so come and size them up at our Grey Lynn concept store, or order online for tracked delivery across New Zealand.
Frequently asked questions about hard coolers and chilly bins
How long will a hard cooler keep ice?
A quality roto-moulded hard cooler can keep ice for several days in normal conditions, and longer with block ice and careful use, while a standard chilly bin usually manages a day or two. Real-world results depend on the outside temperature, how full it is, how often it is opened and whether it sits in sun or shade. Pre-chilling, using plenty of ice and keeping it in the shade make the biggest difference.
Block ice or ice cubes - which is better in a cooler?
Block ice melts much more slowly than cubes because it has less surface area, so it keeps your cooler cold for longer. Cubes chill drinks and food faster and fill the gaps around items. Many people use both: a block or frozen bottles of water at the bottom for long-lasting cold, with cubes on top. Frozen water bottles also give you cold drinking water as they melt.
Should I drain the water from my cooler?
Icy meltwater actually helps keep the contents cold, so it is best not to drain it while there is still plenty of ice. Drain it when the water starts to warm up or when it threatens to soak food that should stay dry. Keep food in sealed containers or a dry goods basket above the water. When you do drain it, top up with fresh ice to keep the temperature down.
What cooler size is best for a fishing boat?
On a small boat or tinny, a 35 to 50 litre cooler is often the sweet spot, holding bait, drinks and the day's catch while doubling as a seat. Bigger boats and longer trips may need 65 litres or more, and some anglers carry two coolers, one for bait and one for the catch. Check the length of the cooler too, so larger fish fit without being bent.
Why are hard coolers so heavy?
Hard coolers get their performance from thick insulated walls and solid roto-moulded construction, which adds weight even before you add ice and contents. That weight is part of why they are so tough and hold ice so well. If you need to carry one any distance, look for good handles or rope grips, consider a wheeled cooler, or share the carry, and avoid buying a bigger cooler than you need.
Can I lock a hard cooler?
Many hard coolers have moulded-in holes or tie-down points that take a padlock or cable lock, which helps deter theft at a campsite, on a boat or in the back of a ute. A lock also keeps the cooler secure in a shared boat shed or garage, and keeps the lid tightly shut during transport. Check the cooler's features for lock points before you buy if security matters to you.
How do I keep a cooler cold in a hot car or ute?
Keep the cooler out of direct sun where possible, such as on the floor of the back seat or under a cover in the ute tray, and avoid putting it on a hot metal surface. Pre-chill it and fill it with cold items and plenty of ice before you leave. A reflective cover or towel over the top helps on long drives. Open it as little as possible until you reach your destination.
Are hard coolers good for camping trips of several days?
Yes, they are the best type of cooler for multi-day trips without power, especially roto-moulded models. Plan ahead by freezing meals and water bottles, packing in the order you will use things, and keeping drinks in a separate cooler so the food cooler stays closed. Top up with fresh ice when you pass a shop. For longer trips or remote areas, a portable fridge removes the need for ice altogether.