What I Learned After Hauling the YETI Tundra Hard Cooler Through Heat, Rough Roads, and Campsites
The best overall hard-sided camping cooler you can get
November 7th, 2025
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Our verdict
The YETI Tundra is a heavy-duty, premium cooler offering best-in-class ice retention. It earned Best Overall in our Best Camping Coolers guide for its ice retention, durability, and style.
Throughout my time using it on the road and camping since I bought it in the Spring, I was very impressed with its insulating powers even in extremely hot environments. Other users have claimed a 5-10 day ice retention and my results from testing it both while camping in the Sierra Nevada Mountains and in my temperature controlled apartment support these claims. This thick insulation also contributes to the overall build quality and durability of the cooler.
The Tundra is exceptionally durable and features the premium build quality we have all come to expect from YETI. The single-piece construction eliminates weak points and heat sinks, and when secured with padlocks the cooler can stand up to a bear attack. Handling the cooler the quality is undeniable. The plastic feels hard and rugged, the seams appear robust, and the hinge and latch mechanism are strong and functional. While testing this cooler I went hard on it, setting it down roughly on hard surfaces and moving it harshly in transport to test for leaks. The Tundra was able to withstand all I threw at it.
Beyond the ice retention and build quality, something that really set this cooler apart for me were the plethora of premium touches and accessories. The included dry goods basket fits well into the cooler and keeps choice products dry while allowing access to items below that are embedded in the ice. The lid stays open, making it easy to quickly load or unload the cooler. The drain works great and makes restocking and cleaning the cooler a breeze. Finally, the dual handles make carrying the fully loaded cooler ergonomic with one or two people.
The two main drawbacks I noticed while testing this cooler were its weight and price. Filled with ice, the smallest model, Tundra 35, weighs 50 lbs. Transporting this cooler solo roughly 100 yards to my campsite in Yosemite was awkward, but I felt like the dual handle option made it easier than other coolers. The Tundra line is also within the weight range of other competitors.
When compared to other brands, the YETI Tundra line is also pricey. However, those that submit to the “buy once, cry once” philosophy will recognize the purchase of this cooler as an investment that will pay off in fewer trips to restock ice and a longer lifespan.
Tundra 35
Tundra 45
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YETI Tundra Hard Cooler Specifications
Size Options and Capacities
Tundra 35: 39 cans capacity, 29 lbs ice, 21 lbs weight
Tundra 45: 54 cans capacity, 37 lbs ice, 25 lbs weight
Tundra 65: 77 cans capacity, 58 lbs ice, 30 lbs weight
Tundra 75: 131 cans capacity, 78 lbs ice, 36 lbs weight
Tundra 105: 139 cans capacity, 93 lbs ice, 39 lbs weight
Tundra 110: 150 cans capacity, 102 lbs ice, 41 lbs weight
Tundra 125: 193 cans capacity, 129 lbs ice, 49 lbs weight
Tundra 160: 229 cans capacity, 154 lbs ice, 53 lbs weight
Tundra 210: 322 cans capacity, 231 lbs ice, 63 lbs weight
Tundra 250: 362 cans capacity, 244 lbs ice, 70 lbs weight
Tundra 350: 549 cans capacity, 353 lbs ice, 93 lbs weight
Tundra Haul Wheeled Cooler: 82 cans capacity, 64 lbs ice, 38 lbs weight
Universal Features Across All Sizes
Construction: Rotomolded single-piece polyethylene
Insulation: Up to 3 inches PermaFrost pressure-injected polyurethane
Ice Retention: YETI doesn’t claim an exact ice retention, but I, alongside other users, got about 5-10 days depending on conditions
Bear Resistance: IGBC certified when used with bear-proof locks
Warranty: 5 years
Drain: Vortex drain system
Included: One dry goods basket per cooler, except haul wheeled model
Comparison table
| CAMPING COOLER | VOLUMES | WEIGHT (LBS) | LOCKABLE? | ICE RETENTION | BEAR RESISTANT |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yeti Tundra Series | 35, 45, 65, 75, 105, 110, 125, 160, 210, 250, 350 quarts | 20 - 89 | Y | Not stated | IGBC certified when locked |
| Pelican Elite | 20, 30, 50, 70, 150 quarts | 13 - 66 | N | Not stated for all models | IGBC certified when locked |
| RTIC Cooler | 20, 45, 65, 110, 145 quarts | 18 - 60 | Y | Up to 10 days | Not certified but can be locked |
| Coleman Xtreme 5 Day | 70 quarts | 13 | N | Up to 5 days | No |
| RovR RollR Wheeled Cooler | 45, 60 quarts | 37 - 65 | N | Up to 8 days | IGBC certified when locked |
Who is it for?
The author and a friend carrying the YETI Tundra 35 using the rope handles.
RV owners, van lifers, and truck campers seeking a multi-day, reliable refrigeration system that is less complex and not power dependent
Bear country users requiring IGBC-certified protection for food storage
Boaters and fisherman looking for a premium on-the-water cooler
Anyone looking for a rugged, durable cooler with maximum ice retention, build quality, and brand prestige
Tundra 35: river floaters that need a cooler compatible with inner tubes
What we liked
Remarkable ice retention
T-Rex latches exert downward pressure on the lid when closed
Basket kept items dry
Easy-to-use and effective drain
Double handles offer multiple carry options
Lid stays open for easy loading
What could be better
Very heavy when fully loaded
Drain plug completely screws off and could be lost
Capacity seems exaggerated
Pricey
How we tested
I tested the Tundra 35 in the field during the summer and early fall. I roadtripped from Denver to Los Angeles to Lee Vining, California and relied on the cooler to keep drinks and some snacks chilled during the drives there and back.
Later in the fall, I went on a 10-day rock climbing trip to Yosemite and the Eastern Sierra. I loaded the cooler in the Sierra Nevada foothills with ice, drinks, and food, utilizing the included dry basket to keep my veggies and cheese from getting soggy. I spent 7 days camping, hiking, and rock climbing in Yosemite Valley and Tuolumne Meadows, where a nice late-summer cold spell kept daytime highs in the 70s and nighttime lows in the 40s.
I then spent three days in the substantially hotter Eastern Sierra, where daytime highs reached the 90s and the temperature inside my truck was certainly hotter still. I then drove back to Los Angeles with just enough chilled water to keep my remaining provisions.
Later in the fall, I traveled from Los Angeles to Denver and used the cooler to keep drinks and snacks cold for the journey. Finally, my girlfriend and I went on a trip to Rocky Mountain National Park to hike, see some elk, and do some rock climbing. The cooler kept our drinks and lunch-making materials nice and chilly.
While testing the cooler, I assessed the build quality both visually and by feel. I inspected all of the corners, edges, seams, and hardware to get a sense of how I thought they would hold up. I tested the durability more harshly by picking up and putting down the cooler firmly to test any weak points. I carried the fully loaded cooler alone and with a partner using both sets of handles to test its ergonomics and mobility. I also relied on the interior basket to separate items that needed to be dry. I used the drain several times to empty the cooler, and throughout my time using it, I assessed its excellent ice retention in relation to other coolers I have used.
With all of this in mind, I got a better sense of the value of the YETI Tundra given its high price.
Performance in the field
Ice retention
The ice retention of this cooler is unmatched in comparison to any other cooler I have used. I did not prechill the cooler or its contents, as recommended by YETI for maximum ice retention. During my climbing trip to the Sierra, I initially put around 20 pounds of ice in the cooler and after 7 days of temperatures between 40 and 80 degrees, more than half of the ice remained. I restocked the cooler and added about 7 pounds of ice and headed to the warmer Eastern Sierra.
While dispersed camping in the Eastern Sierra, the cooler remained in my truck while outside temperatures crept into the 90s. The temperature inside the truck could have been more than 130 degrees while it was sitting in the sun. Nonetheless, the ice in the cooler remained for three more days in these extreme conditions.
I also used the cooler on several road- and daytrips. In each of these shorter trips, the ice was retained well, as expected.
Setup for the controlled ice retention test.
I was curious how the cooler would perform in a more controlled environment. I put about 25 pounds of ice inside, sealed the lid, and left it in my ~70 degree apartment for just over a week. Every few days I drained out the cooler and weighed it to assess how much solid ice remained. I kept the lid sealed for this entire duration to try to limit the changing variables.
YETI states that leaving the cold liquid water in the cooler is better for ice retention than removing it and allowing warmer air to take its place. But, it is also unrealistic to never open the lid of the cooler. These factors have opposing impacts on ice retention, but I am unsure of their relative impact. My results are shown in the graph below. The ice melted at a rate of about 3 pounds per day.
Durability
The Tundra cooler is very durable. Since it is heavy when fully loaded, I did not set it down gently when taking it out of my truck. The cooler handled my rough-handling like a champ. I also did not hesitate to use it as a seat or stack other items on it; it felt very solid.
Build quality
The build quality appears to be up to YETI standards. The single-piece design eliminates any joints on the cooler beyond the lid. The plastic itself feels very strong and does not flex whatsoever. The hinge and latching mechanisms also feel and appear very robust.
Portability
The author cooking on the tailgate of his truck while storing food and cooling it in the YETI Tundra.
Portability is the area where the cooler may lose a few points from me. I stayed in Yosemite Valley’s Camp 4 for several nights during this trip. Sleeping in my truck was not allowed, so I had to haul the cooler around 100 yards from the parking lot to my campsite. At a base weight of 21 pounds, the additional 20 pounds of ice and 10-15 pounds of contents made the trip a workout. However, I did appreciate the dual handles. Had I not been alone, I believe the rope handles would have made the trip a breeze for two people. Since it was just me, I used the molded handles on the body of the cooler to keep it closer to my hip.
I rarely camp in places that require such a trek to the site and would generally either keep the cooler in my truck or move it fewer than 10 yards to a drive-in campsite’s table. At these distances, the robustness of the construction and insulation that contribute to the additional weight are more than worth it.
The 15.4” x 21.1” x 15.9” size of the Tundra 35 is optimal for me as it fits snuggly in one one of my truck’s backseats with the lid facing the door. This allows me to easily access the contents but also gives my dog space to stretch out in the backseat.
Versatility
The Tundra cooler is just about as versatile as a cooler can be. Its insulation supports hot or cold items and its durable construction makes it a suitable seat or table.
While the lid does not have the in-set cup holders of some other models, I have found that feature to be more aesthetic than functional. At less than an inch deep, those lid cupholders are not going to prevent a drink from being spilled and only allow a single diameter cup or can to fit. I much prefer the flat top of the Tundra because it makes the lid more usable as a table or cutting board.
One feature that would be welcome on the YETI is an integrated bottle opener. I guess I will have to stick with the one on keyring instead.
Features
Rotomolded construction for extreme durability
The single-piece polyethylene construction eliminates weak seams and joints. The build quality of Tundra coolers is undeniable. The lack of weak points makes it more durable and effective as there are fewer areas the cooler can lose heat or break from.
YETI uses a rotational molding process to create consistent wall thickness throughout the cooler. In combination with the single-piece design, the rotomolding process helps remove weak points that can develop through inconsistent wall thickness.
The impact-resistant design of the Tundra withstands drops, kicks, and rough handling. The cooler’s thick walls, sturdy base, and rough lid contribute to its durability and scratch resistance.
The use of UV-resistant materials maintains the strength of the Tundra’s plastic and keeps its bright colors from fading.
The YETI Tundra is incredibly durable, with a virtually indestructible construction designed for decades of use. The Tundra line is built with durability at the forefront and is backed by a five-year warranty. It is ready to stand up to whatever you throw at it.
This is certainly not a budget or even mid-tier cooler, but you get what you pay for. YETI Tundra coolers are built to work effectively and last. For serious users, this investment will pay off over time.
Industry-leading insulation system
The Tundra’s FatWall design comes with PermaFrost Insulation that measures 2 inches thick in the walls and 3 inches thick in the lid. It is no joke and clearly contributes to its exceptional ice retention, as well as its weight.
Highly heat resistant polyurethane is pressure-injected into the walls of the Tundra and expands to tightly fill the space before hardening into a solid. This technique results in exceptional insulation and is also very strong, bolstering the cooler’s durability.
While YETI shies away from an exact claim on ice retention, many users claim 5-10+ days depending on conditions such as environmental temperature, ice to content ratio, and whether or not the cooler was prechilled. My experience testing the cooler aligns with these claims, and I noticed environmental temperature to be the key factor.
For those needing to maintain extremely cold temperatures, extend preservation time, or looking to avoid oxidation, the Tundra line is dry ice compatible. Some competing coolers can be catastrophically damaged if used with dry ice.
The YETI Tundra series is dual-purpose. All of the features that keep the cold locked in can also keep it locked out. The PermaFrost insulation is designed to mitigate changes in temperature within the cooler and works with hot contents as well.
Bear-proof security and wildlife protection
IGBC certification requires specific lock types for bear-proof storage.
Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC) certified design: YETI satisfies bear-country users by utilizing an Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC) certified design that doubles as a testament to the Tundra’s durability. Bear-proof coolers are very important for the safety of outdoor recreationalists and limit bear reliance on humans. When closed with compatible padlocks, the Tundra is designed to thwart a bear’s attempt to break open the cooler to access food inside.
The heavy duty T-Rex lid latches are very strong and exert a downward force on the lid to keep the cooler tightly sealed. They are capable of withstanding extreme forces and contribute to the IGBC certification.
The Tundra series is padlock compatible, keeping food safe from thieves of all species, bear or human.
Bears that access human food become more aggressive toward humans in the future and often have to be put down. Storing food responsibly in bear country is not only a moral obligation but also contributes to more successful outings. Losing your food during a multi-day camping trip can be a headache at best or a dangerous situation at worst, depending on what else the bear may have destroyed trying to access your food.
Professional-grade hardware and components
T-Rex latches exert downward pressure on the lid, keeping the cold locked in.
YETI relies on a NeverFail hinge system with interlocking two-pin design to keep the lid secured and freely moving. This hinge looks and feels robust and allows the lid to stay open while accessing the cooler’s contents.
T-Rex rubber latches have to be pulled downward to slot into place, confidently sealing the lid of the cooler even when packed tightly.
The Tundra’s drain plug quickly empties the cooler and allows for easier cleaning. Make sure you keep track of it though, as it is not permanently attached to the cooler. That said, the drain works effectively when not completely removed.
YETI Tundras come with handles molded into the sides of the cooler, as well as extended rope handles that can be used to keep the cooler further away from the body, making carrying it with a buddy easier. The handles work great and allow the cooler to be carried comfortably despite its fully-loaded weight.
Tundra coolers are equipped with YETI’s BearFoot non-slip feet that prevent it from sliding around on slippery surfaces such as a boat or bed of a truck.
YETI’s AnchorPoint tie-down slots allowed the Tundra to be secured in transport for extra security.
Versatile size range for every application
The YETI Tundra comes in different sizes from personal (35 qt) to commercial (350 qt). Size options accommodate everything from day trips to extended expeditions, and the capacity is clearly marked for cans-only and ice-only configurations.
The Tundras come in a variety of color options, from utilitarian to eye-catching seasonal choices, and customization is available with collegiate and MLB logos, too.
You can choose specialized models based on specific use cases, such as deep, wide, or wheeled.
Premium convenience and organization features
Removable internal dry good basket keeps fruits, veggies, or anything else cold and dry
The included dry goods basket is an elite accessory for those carrying anything that needs to be cold but not wet.
The smooth plastic walls, drain, and lid that stays open makes cleaning and drying the cooler a breeze.
The cooler’s durable construction allows it to be a versatile item. Beyond cold storage, it can serve as a seat or table.
YETI is renowned for its durability, but should a problem arise Tundra coolers are backed by a 5-year warranty.
YETI Tundra vs. similar coolers
Pelican Elite series
The Pelican Elite series comes in a range of sizes from 8 to 250 quarts. The 30QT Elite is comparable in price to the Tundra 35. Like YETI, Pelican does not make an exact ice retention claim, but it only has 2.1 inches of insulation.
While both models are lockable, the Pelican cooler is not certified bear resistant. The Pelican cooler comes with some built-in conveniences, like lid cupholders and a bottle opener, but a dry goods basket is extra.
Pelican is a brand that is also revered for its durability and build quality. The Elite series coolers come with a lifetime warranty on the body and a 90-day warranty on the accompanying parts, like the wheels, feet, drain, gasket, and accessories.
Pelican Elite series
RTIC Ultra Tough coolers come in a few sizes from 20 to 124 quarts and are 20-30% less expensive than YETI Tundra coolers across this range. Comparing the 45QT models, the construction is similar, with both being rotomolded and RTIC having 2.8 inches of insulation and YETI having 2-3 inches.
RTIC claims a 5-day ice retention. Both lines have similar handles, drains, lockability, and warranty. However, RTIC coolers are not certified bear resistant and are a bit heavier. For those not requiring bear resistance, the RTIC Ultra Tough appears to be an effective, cheaper alternative to the YETI Tundra.
RTIC hard coolers
Coleman coolers come with an aura of nostalgia for many outdoor enthusiasts. The Coleman Pro line is more affordable than YETI Tundra coolers; however, modern coolers have gained several features that Coleman has yet to integrate. Notably, they have no accompanying accessories like dividers, baskets, or tie-down straps, so these would have to be sourced aftermarket.
With 2-inch thick walls, Coleman Pro coolers claim a 4-day ice retention and come with a 10-year limited warranty. They are lockable but not bear resistant.
The Coleman Xtreme 5 Day cooler is our pick for Best Value in our Best Camping Coolers guide.
Coleman Xtreme 5 Day
Coleman Pro 55-Quart
Both Grizzly and Camp-Zero make coolers with a similar size and price range to the YETI Tundra line and are also IGBC certified for bear resistance. Both options come with similar features such as rope handles, drains, and baskets (extra). However, these brands lack the notoriety and proven durability of YETI.
Grizzly 60 Cooler
Camp-Zero 40
Should I buy a YETI Tundra?
Buy if you submit to the “buy once, cry once” philosophy and need a durable, bear-safe cooler that can keep your items cold for multiple days.
Skip if you are looking for a budget-friendly model, or only need single-day ice retention. If you’re looking for a soft-sided cooler, check out our Best Soft Coolers guide.
Where to buy YETI Tundra coolers?
The YETI Tundra coolers are a popular gear item, so you have options when it comes to retailers. Here are some of the pros of the retailers.
REI
Pros: 100% satisfaction policy for 1 year; 10% dividend for members.
Amazon
Pros: Free 2-day shipping with Amazon Prime membership
Why you should trust us / About the author
Vijay Jain (left) is an avid road-tripper, truck camper, and outdoor athlete.
My name is Vijay Jain and I am an avid road-tripper, truck camper, hiker, backpacker, skier, and rock climber. Every year I spend several weeks living out of my built-out Tacoma, checking off backcountry ski lines, classic rock climbs, and national park hikes throughout the American West. I fully submit to the “buy once, cry once” mentality and am always looking to include the most reputable and versatile products in my setup. You can follow my adventures on Instagram @vijay.jain.
Until now I had tried to get by with a more budget-friendly cooler that lacked the features and ice retention I really needed. I am stoked to be adding the YETI Tundra 35 to my arsenal.
