When you are preparing for an outdoor adventure, having the right equipment to keep your food fresh and your drinks cold is essential. RTIC has built a reputation for providing high-quality coolers, drinkware, and accessories that offer professional-grade performance. Whether you are planning a week-long camping trip, a day at the beach, or simply need a reliable way to stay hydrated at work, understanding the different options available will help you make an informed decision.
The Benefits of Rotomolded Coolers
One of the primary reasons people seek out RTIC products is their line of hard-sided coolers. These coolers use a process called rotomolding, which creates a single, thick piece of plastic without seams. This construction is incredibly durable and provides superior insulation compared to traditional plastic coolers found in most retail stores.
Hard-sided coolers are designed for maximum ice retention. Because they are airtight and heavily insulated, they can often keep ice frozen for several days, even in high temperatures. This makes them the ideal choice for long-distance travel or off-grid camping where you won’t have access to fresh ice daily.
Selecting the Right Cooler Size
Choosing the correct size is the most important step when shopping for a hard-sided cooler. RTIC offers a wide range of capacities to suit different needs:
- 20 Quart: This is a personal-sized cooler. It is perfect for a solo day trip or for keeping a small number of drinks and snacks cold in the car.
- 45 Quart: Often considered the “sweet spot” for most users, this size is manageable for one person to carry but large enough to hold supplies for a weekend trip for two.
- 65 Quart: This is the go-to size for family camping trips or fishing excursions. It offers significant storage space but requires more effort to move when fully loaded.
- 110 Quart and Larger: These oversized coolers are designed for big game hunting, long-term maritime use, or large group events where massive storage is required.
Exploring Soft-Sided Coolers for Portability
While hard-sided coolers are great for longevity, they can be heavy and bulky. If your priority is mobility, a soft-sided cooler might be the better choice. These are made from heavy-duty fabrics that are puncture-resistant and feature high-quality zippers to prevent leaks.
Soft-sided coolers are much lighter than their hard-sided counterparts and often come with comfortable shoulder straps or backpack-style harnesses. They are perfect for hiking, attending sporting events, or taking a lunch to a job site. While they do not hold ice as long as rotomolded coolers, they can easily keep items cold for a full day or more.
Key Features of Soft Packs
When looking at soft-sided options, consider the “Soft Pack” series. These are designed with a flip-top lid that provides easy access to the interior. They are also waterproof, meaning you can knock them over without worrying about water leaking out into your vehicle. Many users prefer these for kayaking or paddleboarding because they can be easily lashed down to the deck.
High-Performance Drinkware for Daily Use
Beyond coolers, RTIC is well-known for its extensive line of stainless steel drinkware. Most of these products utilize double-wall vacuum insulation. This technology creates a vacuum seal between two layers of steel, which prevents heat from transferring through the walls of the container.
This means your cold drinks stay icy for up to 24 hours, and your hot coffee stays warm for several hours. Because of the insulation, the exterior of the drinkware will not “sweat,” keeping your hands and surfaces dry.
Popular Drinkware Categories
- Tumblers: Available in 20oz and 30oz sizes, these are designed to fit in most standard cup holders. They are a staple for commuters and office workers.
- Water Bottles: These often feature a leak-proof cap and a wide mouth for adding ice cubes. They are durable enough to survive being dropped on rocky trails.
- Can Chillers: These are specifically designed to hold a standard 12oz can or a slim can. They act as a heavy-duty sleeve that keeps your beverage cold until the last sip.
- Jugs: For those who need a large volume of water for the day, half-gallon and one-gallon jugs are available with heavy-duty handles for easy transport.
Important Features to Look For
When comparing different models, there are several specific features that contribute to the overall utility and lifespan of the product. Paying attention to these details will ensure you get the most value out of your purchase.
T-Latches and Seals
On hard-sided coolers, look for heavy-duty rubber T-latches. These latches create a tight seal by pulling the lid down firmly against a freezer-grade gasket. A tight seal is the most critical factor in preventing warm air from entering the cooler and melting your ice.
Drain Plugs and Non-Slip Feet
A good cooler should be easy to maintain. Look for models with an integrated drain plug that allows you to empty melted water without tipping the entire cooler over. Additionally, non-slip rubber feet are a helpful feature if you plan to keep your cooler in the back of a truck or on the deck of a boat, as they prevent the unit from sliding around during transit.
Tie-Down Slots
For those who take their gear into rugged terrain, tie-down slots are essential. These allow you to secure the cooler to a trailer or boat deck while still being able to open the lid. This adds a layer of safety and convenience during travel.
How to Maximize Ice Retention
Even the best cooler needs to be used correctly to perform at its peak. If you want your ice to last as long as possible, follow these simple steps:
- Pre-chill the cooler: Bring the cooler inside the night before your trip. If you put ice into a hot cooler that has been sitting in a garage, the ice will waste energy cooling down the insulation itself.
- Use cold contents: Only put refrigerated or frozen food and drinks into the cooler. Warm soda cans will melt ice rapidly.
- Minimize air space: Air is the enemy of ice. Fill any gaps with extra ice or towels. The fuller the cooler, the better it will perform.
- Limit openings: Every time you open the lid, cold air escapes and warm air enters. Try to plan what you need before opening the cooler to keep the lid closed as much as possible.
Maintenance and Long-Term Care
RTIC products are built to be rugged, but a little bit of maintenance goes a long way. After every trip, you should clean your cooler or drinkware with mild soap and warm water. Avoid using abrasive cleaners that could scratch the surface or damage the seals.
It is crucial to let your cooler dry completely with the lid open before storing it. Storing a damp cooler can lead to the growth of mold and mildew. For drinkware, most lids are dishwasher safe, but hand-washing the stainless steel body is often recommended to preserve the vacuum seal and the exterior finish over time.
Conclusion
Investing in high-quality outdoor gear ensures that your focus remains on your activities rather than worrying about spoiled food or lukewarm drinks. By selecting the right size cooler and the appropriate drinkware for your specific needs, you can enjoy the outdoors with confidence. Remember to consider how you will transport your gear and how long you need to maintain temperature when making your final choice. For more tips on outdoor preparation and equipment maintenance, explore our other guides on home and travel essentials.