From beach days and backyard cricket to long weekends camping, a good cooler is a summer essential in Australia. This esky buying guide explains the difference between hard and soft coolers, how to pick the right size, which features matter and how to pack your cooler so ice lasts as long as possible.
Hard coolers vs soft coolers
| Feature | Hard cooler | Soft cooler |
|---|---|---|
| Ice retention | Generally longer, especially rotomoulded models | Generally shorter, best for day trips |
| Weight empty | Heavier | Light and easy to carry |
| Durability | Tough shell, can double as a seat | Flexible, may tear if handled roughly |
| Storage | Takes up more space | Folds or squashes down when empty |
| Best for | Camping, fishing, multi-day trips | Picnics, beach days, lunches, road trips |
Hard coolers
Classic hard eskies use a moulded plastic shell with foam insulation. Rotomoulded coolers are made in one piece with thick walls and heavy-duty lids, which gives them very strong ice retention and toughness. They're heavier and take up more space, but they're the choice for serious camping and fishing trips.
Soft coolers
Soft coolers and cooler bags are lightweight, often have shoulder straps or backpack harnesses, and fold away when not in use. They're ideal for a day at the beach, a picnic or a trip to the shops in summer.
Choosing the right size
| Capacity | Typical use |
|---|---|
| Under 15L | Personal lunch, a few drinks, short outings |
| 15 to 30L | Day trips, picnics, small families |
| 30 to 50L | Weekend camping, fishing trips, BBQs |
| 50L and up | Multi-day camping, large groups, boat trips |
Remember that ice takes up a good share of the space, so allow extra capacity. Also think about weight: a large cooler packed with ice and drinks is heavy, so wheels or two-person handles are worth having for bigger sizes.
Features worth looking for
- Lid seal: a rubber gasket helps keep cold air in.
- Latches: strong latches keep the lid closed when you're on the move.
- Drain plug: makes it easy to empty meltwater without tipping.
- Handles and wheels: essential for larger coolers.
- Tie-down points: handy in a ute tray or on a boat.
- Built-in measuring ruler: a nice extra for fishers.
- Divider or basket: keeps food dry and separate from ice.
How to pack an esky for longer-lasting ice
- Pre-chill the cooler. Leave it inside overnight or add a bag of ice a few hours before packing.
- Pack cold food and drinks. Everything should be cold or frozen before it goes in.
- Use block ice or frozen bottles. Large blocks melt slower than small cubes. Frozen water bottles do double duty as drinking water.
- Layer it right. Put ice on the bottom, then items you'll need last, then more ice on top.
- Fill the gaps. Air space warms up quickly, so fill empty spots with ice or a towel.
- Keep it shut. Every time you open the lid, cold air escapes. Consider a separate drinks cooler for everyone to dip into.
- Keep it in the shade. Under a table or wrapped in a towel works well.
As common sense goes, keep raw meat sealed and separate from ready-to-eat food, and throw out anything that has sat in warm water.
Hard cooler or portable fridge?
For long trips, some campers step up to a portable 12V fridge. Fridges keep a set temperature without ice, but need a power source. Many campers use both: a fridge for food, and an esky for drinks and extra storage. If you're comparing compact cold storage for home, see our bar fridge buying guide.
Fishing and boating tips
Fishers often use two coolers: one for bait and one for the catch and food. A cooler with a drain plug, tie-down points and a non-slip base is easier to manage on a boat, and a light-coloured lid reflects more of the sun's heat. Check local fishing rules for size and bag limits before you head out.
Care and cleaning
- Rinse after every use and wash with mild soapy water.
- Leave the lid open to dry fully before storing to avoid odours and mould. Our how to remove mould guide can help if it's already a problem.
- Store out of direct sunlight to protect the plastic and seals.
- A little bicarb soda helps freshen up a smelly cooler.
Pair your cooler with
Make the most of your day out with reusable water bottles, lunch boxes from our lunch boxes, bottles and coolers range, and folding chairs and tables from our camp furniture collection. For more outdoor gear, browse camping and hiking.
Brands we stock
Browse our coolers range, featuring brands such as Esky, Polarbox, Igloo and Pelican. See all brands on our brands page.
Related guides: Bar Fridge Buying Guide, BBQ Buying Guide, Insulated Water Bottles.
Frequently asked questions
How long does ice last in an esky?
It depends on the cooler's insulation, the outside temperature, how full it is and how often it's opened. Rotomoulded hard coolers generally hold ice longest. Pre-chilling, using block ice and keeping the lid shut all help.
What size esky do I need for camping?
For a weekend away for two to four people, around 30 to 50 litres is a good starting point. Larger groups and longer trips may need 50 litres or more, or a second cooler for drinks.
Is a soft cooler as good as a hard cooler?
Soft coolers are lighter and easier to carry, making them great for day trips. Hard coolers generally keep ice longer and are tougher, so they suit multi-day trips.
Should I drain the water from my esky?
Cold meltwater helps keep things cool, but food packaging can get soggy. Many people drain some water while keeping food sealed or raised in a basket above it.
