Every summer, there are more and more things to think about when you plan for your outdoor activities. Whether it is trekking or backpacking, you cannot leave behind important elements that will keep you safe while enjoying the great outdoors like buying a kayaking cooler.

A kayak cooler can help you transport your food and drinks while at the beach, riverside, or even in a lake. It’s time to get ready for an adventure in the water. You have your safety gear along with your paddle, sunscreen, and your lunch bag packed. You’ll be on the water for several hours. How do be sure that you can keep food as well as beverages chilled and fresh?

If you think that packing your lunch for your kayak means you need to eat soggy food and drink lukewarm water consider changing your mind. There are a variety of cooler bags and ice chests that are specifically designed to be carried on the kayak.

Let’s First List Some Of The Coolers We Like

1. Skywin Kayak Cooler

Our top pick and with good reasons the Skywin Kayak Cooler is a lightweight option that will offer so much in so little. The price is good, the size is right and it is compatible with most kayak back seats. This handy little cooler can store bottles and cans and with a convenient top zipper, you will be able to take your drink out at any second.

2. Perception Splash Tankwell Cooler

The Perception Splash Tankwell is a cooler for open storage options on kayaks. As the previous one could fit in vertically in the space, this one is better for horizontal storage and bigger kayaks. A tad bit pricier but bigger the Splash Tankwell is another great choice that was designed with ease of use in mind. With an amazing capacity of 20 cans, you are sure to never run out of your favorite drink on the water.

 

3. Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze

Okay, we need to be honest, this is not a kayak cooler, but this could be YOUR kayak cooler. We really like the Arctic Zone Titan so much that we have to include it in this list. If you have space in your kayak, a free seat maybe, this can be it. With an unmatched price, the Titan is an amazing cooler with a hard shell that will keep your stuff icy.

 

4. Seattle Sports Kayak Catch Cooler

But, not all coolers are the same and maybe you need the best kayak cooler for fishing? Well, the best way to keep your catch fresh is the Seattle Sports Cooler that is the best cooler for this use. This deckside cooler with a reflective exterior is great for any fisher. And with convince in mind the pull-out bag is super easy to clean if you need to leave your catch on the shore.

 

5. CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag

How would this list be complete without a good collapsable cooler bag? Well, the CleverMade Collapsible Cooler is the way to go. This tote/cooler has an amazing capacity and it was truly cleverly designed. We believe it’s the perfect size cooler for any occasion and it will surely fit into any kayak. The price is great too.

 

6. Perception Splash Seat Back Cooler

One more back seat cooler by perception is a true kayak cooler. The Perception Splash is the top of the line thing cooler that is the best you can get for your water travels. Designs with lawn chair style seats in mind it’s easy to carry around and you can feel how much time was spend on designing the cooler. The zippers are of the highest quality, YKK waterproof and ultra welded seams will make sure all stay safe and dry in it.

 

How to choose a kayak cooler?

When choosing a kayak cooler, there are several considerations you should make. These include the type of kayaking you will do (it must be one that allows you to bring drinks like water or other beverages), the size that can fit into your kayak and another important factor is the insulation performance.

Build Quality and Waterproof Level

Waterproof level is extremely important because it will determine how safe items inside will be when exposed to water or even if it can prevent liquids from seeping out during transport. There are insulated models which come with an inner shell made of fiberglass but some also use polystyrene foam as alternative insulation material, similar to those used for pre-chilled food boxes.

How thick these layers depend on the thickness of this insulating material. Being made of polystyrene foam is very light but it also absorbs water hence if you have an opportunity, it is best to look for a kayak cooler that has insulation material with thickness so this will prevent the insulating material from getting wet or absorb humidity.

Size

When looking at different kayak coolers that are available in the market, you also need to consider the size of your cooler because some are created with unique shapes just to fit into tight spaces. It is important that you pick one based on how much space there is in your kayak and how often you plan to use it because these factors can help determine how frequently your ice will be replaced and maintained.

If there’s less space, then it means that the need for maintenance will be less frequent which is good especially if you are always on the go. For example, if your kayaking trips last for 4 hours or more then it would not be practical to do ice replacement every 1-2 hours so it can be ideal to choose models that have high insulation capability and other features like waterproofing capabilities.

Weight

Weight is another factor to consider when choosing a kayak cooler because there should also be enough weight allowance for others including water bottles, first aid kit, lunch box and anything else that you may bring along with you.

Most of all, it must fit into a small space in your kayak as well as maintaining its balance while at sea. In this case, smaller coolers are preferable rather than those bulky ones. The good news is there are lightweight models too so you don’t have to go for heavy ones.

Price points can be considered by most people especially beginners who may not want to spend much money on something that they will only use once or twice per year. Even though there is always a tradeoff between materials and prices, it does not mean that cheaper products are of poor quality.

Just make sure that you choose wisely according to your budget and kayaking needs so it can serve its purpose without any problem.

Conclusion

Kayaking coolers come in different sizes and shapes with a choice of soft-sided models made from vinyl-coated nylon fabric which is lightweight, collapsible, and easy to clean, or hard-shell models that provide better insulation to maintain cold temperatures for extended periods.

Most brands have marine-grade stainless steel hinges so they last longer. They also have drain plugs to empty water and straps that help secure the cooler in place in your kayak or boat.

When choosing what type of kayak cooler to buy, these factors must be taken into consideration because it affects how your daily activities will go on the water. There are many types available now with unique features but knowing your needs will help you choose one which is best for you and your kayaking needs.

Check also these kayak coolers that are available on Amazon: