Have you ever tied pool noodles around a cooler trying to get it to float? Be honest—did you try it more than once? It's okay; we don't judge. We've all gone out of our way to keep our drinks cold and accessible on the lake, river, or in the pool.
We'll let you in on a little secret, though—the pool noodle hack usually doesn't end well. At best, you'll end up with a wobbly contraption you have to constantly hold onto. At worst, your cooler ends up submerged and your food and drinks are floating down the river a mile away.
There's a better solution, folks. A floating cooler is specifically designed to stay upright and stable in the water, keeping your beverages cold and within reach without any DIY disasters.
Can Coolers Float in Water?
Now you may be thinking… “Don’t all coolers float???”
Well, yes. BUT, not all coolers float UPRIGHT, which is the key. Regular plastic coolers might float upright for a short moment, but they aren't built to handle the weight of ice, drinks, and food while in the water. They’re bound to topple over in due time.
Some coolers, however, are designed to float in the water. And the Rugged Road floating cooler is the only beverage cooler specifically designed to float upright in the water, even when fully loaded with ice and drinks, ensuring you have a refreshing drink within reach at all times.
Do Soft Coolers Float in Water?
Soft coolers can be a great option for portability and convenience—and they'll certainly keep your drinks ice cold, but when it comes to floating in water, they might not be your best bet. If you pack a soft cooler with just a few drinks and some ice packs, it may float on the surface for a short period. But if you load it up with heavy items or a significant amount of ice, it’s likely to tip over.
Unlike hard-sided coolers, soft coolers typically don’t have the structural integrity to remain upright in the water, which can lead to your items getting wet or even lost if you’re out on a lake or river. If you're in the market for a soft-sided cooler, it's best to keep it for beach days, picnics, or tailgates where it shines in portability and ease of use—just don’t expect it to be your trusty companion on a float trip or a day out on the lake.
Best Uses for a Floating Cooler
If you spend any time on the water, a cooler that floats upright along with you is a game-changer. No more yelling at your friend on the boat, "Hey, throw me a beer!" (and then hoping they actually have good aim). With a floating cooler, everything you need is within arm's reach, so you can keep the good times rolling without interruptions.
It's the ultimate sidekick for all your water-based adventures. Whether you're lounging in the pool, drifting down a lazy river, or spending the day out on the boat, a floating cooler has you covered.
Here are some of the best ways to put your floating cooler to use:
- Pool Party: The next time you're hosting a pool party, bring a floating cooler into the mix. It will keep your drinks and snacks within arm’s reach while you relax on your giant flamingo floaty, making it easy to grab a drink without ever leaving the pool.
- Fishing or Camping Trip: A floating cooler is a must-have for fishing and camping enthusiasts. No more fumbling around the johnboat to grab a drink. With your floating cooler right beside you, you can focus on what's important—reeling in the big one. It's also a handy spot to keep your bait cool and fresh.
- Float Trip: If you’re gearing up to float down the river, a floating ice chest is your perfect companion. Pack it with your favorite beverages and snacks, and let it float alongside you as you drift downstream. No more worrying about pulling over to grab a drink from the shore—just reach out, pop the lid, and enjoy.
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Boating: Whether you're sailing the seas, kayaking in the bay, or cruising along the lake on a pontoon with your friends, floating coolers add an extra layer of convenience to your boating experience. And the durable design means it can handle the bumps and splashes that come with a day on the boat.
Rugged Road Coolers: Float Upright Every Time
When it comes to floating coolers, Rugged Road takes the cake. Our coolers aren't just designed to float—they're engineered to stay upright in the water, no matter how fully loaded they are. With our innovative design, you won't have to worry about your cooler tipping over when the water gets rough.
Features of the Rugged Road Floating Cooler
Rugged Road floating coolers are designed for those who crave adventure and need a cooler that can keep up with their active lifestyle.
Here’s what makes our floating coolers stand out:
- Ultralight Design: Weighing in at less than half the weight of the competition, the Rugged Road floating beverage cooler is easy to carry wherever you go.
- Large Interior Capacity: Thanks to the thinner exterior walls, this cooler has ample storage without sacrificing on performance.
- Up to 7 Days of Ice Retention: Speaking of performance, the Rugged Road beverage cooler keeps your ice frozen and contents cold for up to 7 days, so you can go further and stay out longer without worrying about melting ice.
- Floats Upright: Rugged Road is the only cooler guaranteed to float upright, even when fully loaded. Whether you’re on a lake, river, or pool, your cooler stays stable and your drinks stay accessible.
- Multi-Purpose Lid: The reversible lid comes with built-in cup holders (and doubles as a cutting board, too). Just flip the lid over and you have a hands-free way to keep your drinks safe while you're in the water.
- “Double-Up” Handle System: Carrying a fully loaded cooler has never been easier. The double handle system ensures you can easily transport your cooler on and off your boat or into the water, no matter how much you’ve packed inside.
- “Get a Grip” Non-Slip Surface: Whether you’re handling it in wet or icy conditions, the non-slip surface provides a firm grip, so you can maneuver your cooler with confidence.
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$80 of Accessories Inside: Every Rugged Road cooler comes with over $80 worth of accessories, including an insulated 18 oz. water bottle, a snack rack, and a sliding divider to keep your items organized and easily accessible.
Maintenance and Care for Floating Coolers
You can care for your floating cooler the same way you would any other cooler, and regular cleaning and care is key to making it last for many seasons of fun. After each use, give it a good rinse with fresh water, especially if you’ve been in saltwater. Let it air dry completely before storing it to prevent any mold or mildew. Use the convenient drain plug to empty out any remaining water and leave the plug open while drying. For long-term storage, keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Safety Tips for Using a Floating Ice Chest
Safety should be your first priority during any outdoor adventure. While floating coolers are designed to be stable, it's important to use them responsibly.
- Use a Secure Tether: Always use a strong, waterproof cord or bungee to tether your floating cooler to your kayak, float, or boat. Make sure the cord is long enough to prevent tangling but short enough to keep the cooler within easy reach.
- Choose the Right Attachment Point: Attach the tether to a sturdy part of your kayak or float that won’t interfere with your movement or paddling. Avoid tying it to areas where it could obstruct your view or cause an imbalance.
- Check the Water Conditions: In rough or fast-moving water, a floating cooler can become a hazard if it starts to pull or drag unexpectedly. Assess the water conditions before setting out, and consider securing your cooler inside your kayak or boat if the water gets too choppy.
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Secure the Lid: Make sure the cooler lid is tightly sealed before hitting the water. A secure lid will prevent your items from spilling out if the cooler gets jostled by waves.
Keep Your Drinks Cold Wherever You Go With a Floating Cooler
Whether you're a weekend warrior who spends every spare moment on the water or someone who just loves a good pool party, a floating cooler is the ultimate accessory for your adventures. Say goodbye to the days of soggy snacks and warm drinks. With a Rugged Road floating cooler, you can keep your snacks and drinks cold, accessible, and secure, no matter where your water-bound journeys take you.
