Top Insulated Cooler Brands for the Best ICE Retention

In the ever-evolving world of outdoor adventures and leisure, the choice of equipment plays a pivotal role in enhancing our experiences. When it comes to keeping things cool on your escapades, the type of cooler you choose can make a substantial difference. Enter the realm of roto-molded hard shell coolers – a game-changer in the world of portable refrigeration.

The Best Hard Sided Coolers are also known as Roto-Molded Hard Shell Coolers. These are typically coolers referred to as  “high-end” because the price is higher and reflects the extensive design, construction, size, durability, insulation, and cost.

These robust coolers, crafted through the innovative process of rotational molding, offer a level of durability and insulation that sets them apart from traditional counterparts. In this blog, we embark on a journey to explore the intricacies of roto-molded coolers, unraveling their construction, highlighting their unparalleled insulation capabilities, and delving into the myriad features that make them an indispensable companion for outdoor enthusiasts.

Whether you’re a camping aficionado, a fishing enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates a cold beverage under the open sky, join us in uncovering why roto-molded hard shell coolers have become synonymous with durability, reliability, and the preservation of the cool moments in life.

Why are the hard-shell insulated coolers so pricy?

Well, the Roto-Molded Design and Extra Thick Insulation are why! The rotational molded hard exterior shell and dense insulation with thicker walls keep the outside temperatures from influencing the interior temperatures. Our Shaggy Outdoor Team has researched twelve of these Roto Molded Hard Shell coolers and has provided a brief review of the brand and features.

If you’re looking to keep your food and drinks cold and ice in your cooler over the next 5-7 days, check out these neoprene sealed, bear, and UV resistant coolers.

If you are looking for a convenient cooler that you can take to the beach and on your next hiking trip check out our review of the Best Backpack Coolers on the Market.

Durability and Construction: Unveiling the Engineering Marvel of Roto-Molding

The durability of hard shell coolers is not just a testament to their robust exterior but is intricately tied to the innovative manufacturing process known as roto-molding.

Roto-molding, or rotational molding, involves heating and rotating a mold filled with polyethylene powder until it coats every inch, creating a single, seamless piece. This method eliminates weak points, such as seams or joints, often found in traditional coolers, making roto-molded coolers remarkably durable.

The construction’s uniformity ensures resistance against impacts, rough handling, and even the harshest outdoor elements. Furthermore, the materials used in the construction of these coolers play a pivotal role in their longevity. High-quality polyethylene not only withstands the rigors of adventurous outings but also resists UV damage, preventing deterioration even when exposed to prolonged sunlight.

Insulation Technology: Elevating Coolness to Unprecedented Heights

Beyond their robust construction, the effectiveness of roto-molded coolers lies in their insulation technology.

These coolers boast thick walls that are packed with premium insulation materials, creating a thermal barrier that outperforms many traditional counterparts. The insulation’s core purpose is to regulate temperature and extend ice retention, ensuring that your beverages and perishables stay refreshingly chilled for an extended period. When comparing insulation capabilities, roto-molded coolers consistently outshine other types.

The thick insulation not only retains ice for longer durations but also protects contents from external temperature fluctuations.

Whether you’re camping in scorching heat or fishing in frigid conditions, the insulation prowess of roto-molded coolers stands as a reliable guardian, preserving the coolness of your essentials throughout your outdoor escapades.

How To Get The Best ICE Retention Using Hard Shell Coolers?

Before we start walking you through the Best Hard Shell Coolers on the market, here is a quick guide to help Maximize your ice in ANY cooler.

• Pre-Chill/Freeze Everything – Including the Cooler – HOW DO I DO THIS? Easy just toss in 1-2 bags of ice into the cooler the evening before you plan to pack the cooler. This will allow it time to cool down. Don’t put room temp drinks in the hot cooler with a new bag of ice and expect it to last 5 – 7 days. This just won’t happen.
• Use Lots of Ice – Yes use the ice and KEEP the water to help keep the cooler cool. Once the temperature of the cooler has gone down then drain the water and add more ice. This second or third bag with retain the ice much longer and keep your food cool for your trip.
• Keep the Cooler Lid Closed – yes this is a tough one, but you need to remember every time the lid opens the air influences the temp inside the cooler.

Top 12 Roto-Molded Hard Shell Insulated Cooler Brands

Yeti Cooler

YETI Tundra 45 Cooler, King Crab

 

 

Made in the U.S.A. – Tundra Coolers and LoadOuts

A Yeti Cooler is a lot like other Yeti products you may have heard of. They are durable from the base through the latches to survive whatever Mother Nature throws at them. They come with solid lids with an easy hooking design either two dropdown latches or one stainless steel latch in the middle

Ice retention for YETI is based on several factors. But one common factor is the design and 3 inches of polyurethane foam insulation. The freezer-style sealing gasket and dual latches keep the cool temperatures inside while the cooler is closed.

Choosing the right size Tundra Cooler may be your toughest decision. YETI provides twelve different Tundra model sizes from a Roadie 24 through a 350. For your commercial offshore fishing teams, the Tundra 350 may be your best choice to keep all those fish fresh.

Tundra and Roadie Hard Coolers by Yeti are designed to stand up to the bears in the wild. The coolers need to be locked with approved bear-proof locks to be certified bear-proof.

See More Features on Yeti Coolers and Pricing in our Review – Click Here

Features:

• Ice Life: Five to fourteen days – according to unreported users
• Hot Food Life: Five to fourteen days
• Number of Styles: Three
• Warranty: YETI Tundra has a five-year warranty

Canyon Coolers

Canyon Coolers PRO45 Premium rotomolded Cooler -Sandstone

 

A Canyon Cooler comes with intense insulation in an easy-to-pack square or rectangle. They have one-piece construction that ensures the longevity of the cooler for a lifetime of use. The square design ensures you can easily fit the coolers in the back of a jeep or behind a seat.

The coolers feature thick insulated walls and a rubberized seal. Locking hinges ensures your cooler will stay cold and keep your food and drink cold. The coolers come with such a tight seal that they guarantee your ice will keep anywhere from five to seven days, depending on outside temperature and where you store it.

See More Features on Canyon Coolers and Pricing in our Review – Click Here

Features:

• Ice Life: Eight to Eleven Days
• Hot Food Life: N/A
• Number of Styles: Three
• Warranty: Lifetime

RTIC Coolers

An RTIC Coolers feature impact protection and long-term ice. The coolers make good companions for multiple types of camping or hunting trips as they survive rough treatment in the woods or mountains well. They can be as small or as large as your family and friends require.

The RTIC coolers have integrated locking systems that ensure your coolers are tightly sealed. They come with anchor sites for tie-downs on for the back of a jeep or boat and non-slip feet, so they do not slide around in the back of a truck bed. You also can keep ice mostly frozen for up to ten days, depending on weather conditions and the placement of the cooler.

Features:

• Ice Life: up to 11 Days – based on a private test
• Hot Food Life: N/A – many roto coolers can keep your food warm
• Number of Styles: Three
• Warranty: Lifetime

DEWALT Roto Molded Cooler

The roto mold design is durable and will stand up to the roughest treatment. The strong exterior construction reduces the amount of stress typically put on a cooler during everyday use. The reinforced pressure-injected insulation provides superior ice retention and ensures temperature optimization in the heat. Keep your drinks and food colder longer with the DEWALT 65 Quart Cooler.

Features:

• Ice Life: – Private reviews have ice up to 9 days depending on cooler size and outside temperature
• Hot Food Life: N/A – many roto coolers can keep your food warm
• T.O.U.G.H. Roto Mold Design for the roughest treatment and ensure temperature optimization
• Warranty: 5 Year Limited Warranty & 5 Year Free Service

Pelican Cooler

Pelican 70 Quart Elite Cooler (Cool Blue/Grey)

 

Made in the U.S.A.

Pelican Coolers come with large locks and sturdy feet that can grip the ground and backs of pickups or jeeps. The coolers have lock hasp and stainless-steel plates. They have large seals that grip the lid and prevent heat from penetrating the seals and spoiling your food.

The coolers have integrated cup holders and a built-in bottle opener, so you can find preparation for anything you choose to do. Any ice you put in the cooler will be long-lasting. The manufacturers have high standards for performance, durability, and ergonomic design.

Features:

• Ice Life: Up to Eight Days
• Hot Food Life: N/A – many roto coolers can keep your food warm
• Number of Styles: Nine
• Warranty: Limited Lifetime Warranty

Bison Cooler

Made in the U.S.A.

A Bison Cooler comes with solid and sturdy latches and reinforced handles. The latches are rubber and designed to hook below the rim of the cooler onto the top of the cooler. The cooler has an oversized drain plug to help you clean the cooler out when you are through using it.

Skid-resistant feet keep your cooler in place on the back of a boat or jeep. The lid comes with a lock, so you can ensure no one can open the lid without your knowledge. The added feature also helps keep out animals that can open lids.

Features:

• Ice Life: up to five days
• Hot Food Life: N/A – many roto coolers can keep your food warm
• Number of Styles: One
• Warranty: Five Year Limited Warranty from Date of Purchase

Grizzly Coolers

Grizzly 40 Cooler, Lime, G40, 40 QT

 

 

Made in the U.S.A.

Grizzly Coolers come in various styles and configurations that you can select to fit your adventure. They have similar construction with rubber latches that are easy to open by hand, though not easy enough to open on their own accidentally. Grizzly coolers are molded LLDPE plastics that make the walls thick for long-term durability and increased functionality.

The coolers come with pressure injection of polyurethane foam that is at least two inches thick on the sides and back. You can lock your cooler to help prevent bears or other animals from easily opening them, and the hinges have reinforcement with an integrated interlocking design that can help ensure the security of the hinges.

Features:

• Ice Life: Independent study shows Grizzly Coolers can last anywhere from 3-7 days
• Hot Food Life: N/A – Many roto coolers can keep your food warm
• Number of Styles: Six
• Warranty: Lifetime warranty

K2 Coolers

K2 Coolers Summit 50 Cooler, White

 

 

K2 coolers come with a long-term design to help your ice and food stay cold for as long as you need them to. The coolers are one-piece coolers with molded construction that ensures the top and the bottom sections of the cooler match and fight tightly together. The roto-molded construction helps make the coolers tough and durable.

The coolers are UV resistant to help extend the life of your ice as well as the extra insulation injected into the walls, back, and sides. The coolers lock with lid latches that create a tight seal that latches into a molded locking design.

Features:

• Ice Life: N/A – many roto coolers can hold ice up to seven days depending on conditions
• Hot Food Life: N/A – many roto coolers can keep your food warm
• Number of Styles: Eight
• Warranty: Limited Seven Year Warranty

Igloo Coolers

Igloo 70 Qt Gray IMX Cooler

 

 

Made in the U.S.A.

Igloo coolers come with universal designs to ensure the lid stays sealed with rubber hooks for latches. The playmate coolers have the traditional sliding top, which is large enough for a six-pack and some light snacks. Igloo coolers have multiple choices for style and shape with durable, long-lasting designs that come with wheels or sturdy carrying handle depending on the type of cooler.

You can select your cooler by the number of quarters or the features you require, such as a drain plug or tie-down loops. Some of the styles of the cooler also come with UV inhibitors to help extend the life of your ice.

Features:

• Ice Life: N/A
• Hot Food Life: N/A
• Number of Styles: Eight
• Warranty: Limited Warranty

Coleman Coolers

Made in the U.S.A.

Coleman coolers come with unique ways to select the right cooler for your needs. You can select your cooler for cold retention from one day up through seven days. The coolers get larger by the amount of ice you can add and the increase in size. Your Coleman cooler can hold the temperature from one to seven days, depending on the size of the color and outside temperatures.

The coolers come in multiple styles and configurations for latching, carrying, and rolling. Some styles of their coolers come with locks, while others have cup holders. You can select the cooler that fits your adventure.

Features:

• Ice Life: Up to Seven days
• Hot Food Life: N/A
• Number of Styles: Eight
• Warranty: Limited Warranty from date of purchase

Frosted Frog Roto-Molded Insulated Coolers

frosted Frog makes a lineup of the most uniquely finished coolers. Designed for Heavy Duty Commercial uses, the ice holds during the hottest summer days. The coolers have built-in LED light for ease of viewing during the nights. The product has a 5 Year Manufacturer Warranty and guarantee free from defects of the materials used.

Frosted Frog 45QT Black Ice Chest is high-quality rotomolded with extra-thick walls for superior insulation. Manufactured with high density multi compound PU Foam walls and an environmentally friendly pressure-injected insulation system. Heavy duty rubber latches and non-slip, non-marking bottoms on all four corners. Commercial grade door lid seal gasket. All materials used are non-toxic.

Features:

• Ice Life: N/A
• Hot Food Life: N/A
• Number of Styles: Seven in the Camo patters
• Warranty: 5 Year Manufacturer

Orca Coolers

Made in the U.S.A.

Orca Coolers come in a multitude of colors with sturdy pull-down latches and a front lock that ensures no animals get into your food. Each cooler comes with sturdy anti-slip feet that can grip the ground or the back storage area of a car. They come with a large stainless-steel handle or extendable handles that is ergonomic in design and has a cushioned handgrip to make them easier to carry.

The lids feature tight lid gaskets that keep a tight seal on your food. The entire cooler uses an integrated insulation system that is roto-molded and durable. When you clean out the cooler, you can use the easy-flow drainage spout at the base of the coolers.

Features:

• Ice Life: Ten Days
• Hot Food Life: N/A
• Number of Styles: Eight
• Warranty: Lifetime warranty with proof of purchase

Optimal Roto-Molded Cooler Maintenance: A Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide

Elevate your roto-molded cooler care with our detailed cleaning guide. Explore effective methods for routine maintenance, ensuring your cooler stays pristine for every outdoor adventure.

Cleaning and maintaining a roto-molded cooler is crucial for its longevity and optimal performance. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure your cooler stays in top condition:

Step 1: Empty the Cooler

• Remove all contents from the cooler, including ice and any remaining items. Ensure it is completely empty before starting the cleaning process.

Step 2: Rinse the Interior and Exterior

• Use a hose or water source to thoroughly rinse both the interior and exterior of the cooler. This helps remove loose dirt, debris, and any residual liquids.

Step 3: Prepare a Mild Cleaning Solution

• Mix a solution of mild detergent or dish soap with water. Alternatively, you can use a mixture of water and vinegar for a natural cleaning solution.

Step 4: Wipe Down the Interior and Exterior

• Dip a soft sponge or cloth into the cleaning solution and wipe down the interior and exterior surfaces of the cooler. Pay extra attention to areas with stains or dirt buildup.

Step 5: Scrub Stubborn Stains (if necessary)

• For stubborn stains, create a paste using baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stained areas and use a soft brush or cloth to scrub gently. Rinse thoroughly.

Step 6: Disinfect with a Bleach Solution (if needed)

• If there are lingering odors or you want to disinfect the cooler, create a solution of water and bleach. Use a cloth to wipe down the interior, ensuring proper ventilation and thorough rinsing afterward.

Step 7: Clean Seals and Gaskets

• Inspect and clean the seals and gaskets around the lid. Use a mild cleaning solution and a soft brush to remove any debris. Ensure a proper seal to maintain insulation effectiveness.

Step 8: Lubricate Hinges

• Check the hinges for any signs of wear or stiffness. Apply a silicone-based lubricant to ensure smooth operation. This helps prevent friction-related damage and ensures easy opening and closing.

Step 9: Protect Exterior Surfaces from UV

• If your cooler is frequently exposed to sunlight, apply a UV protectant spray to the exterior surfaces. This helps prevent discoloration and material degradation caused by prolonged sun exposure.

Step 10: Air Dry Thoroughly

• Allow the cooler to air dry completely before putting it back into storage. Ensure that both the interior and exterior surfaces are dry to prevent mold or mildew growth.

Step 11: Store in a Cool, Dry Place

• Store the cooler in a cool, dry place when not in use. If possible, store it with the lid slightly ajar to allow for ventilation and prevent any musty odors.

Following these steps regularly will not only keep your roto-molded cooler clean and fresh but also contribute to its longevity, ensuring it remains a reliable companion for your outdoor adventures.

Final thoughts

Coolers are for more than just camping, hunting, or fishing trips. A cooler can become whatever you need it to be wherever you happen to be. It can be a table, chair, or footstool. Building a cooler sturdy not only enables you to travel with it securely, but you can use it for multiple purposes.

The right cooler extends beyond the original purpose. You should find one that you can see yourself using for use. Whether you like to go camping or travel by car to new destinations, the right cooler can fit easily into the back of your car for every adventure.

Coolers will keep your food cold for anywhere from a day to over ten days, depending on the brand you select. Make sure you read reviews to ensure you are getting the product you want for the duration you require it. You will not regret your decision if you take your time and research the final product you purchase.

REFERENCES & RESOURCES

Yeti, Official Brand Website

Canyon Coolers, Official Brand Website

RTIC Coolers, Official Brand Website

DeWalt Coolers, Official Brand Website

Pelican Cooler, Official Brand Website

Igloo Coolers, Official Brand Website

Orca Cooler, Official Brand Website

Coleman Coolers, Official Brand Website

Bison Coolers, Official Brand Website

Grizzly Coolers, Official Brand Website

K2 Coolers, Official Brand Website

Frosted Frog, Official Brand Website

For Beginners, a Starters Guide To Know Before Your First Backpacking Trip

Whether it is limited travel due to Covid-19 or just the increase in popularity that was happening already more and more people are turning to backpack trips as their vacation adventure. You can do anything from a weekend overnighter to a 6-month long thru-hike and it is all backpacking. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt USD-117815581 ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat.

But before you head out we should clarify what backpacking is. To put it simply, backpacking is hiking with all of your camping gear. Rather than heading home at the end of the day you find a spot and make camp. You can also use backpacking as a way to get to remote fishing spots or find a basecamp for taking photographs.

Once you have the skills and gear to head out for an overnight stay you can use it however you like.

What Type Of Backpacker Do You Want To Be?

There are a lot of flavors of backpacking as you can be a hiker who camps or a camper who hikes. What makes the distinction is how much emphasis is on each part.

Some people love to hike long miles only stopping just before the sun goes down to make camp. The hiking is the aim of the trip so the aim is to have a light, minimal kit so as to not be overburdened during the days hiking. Usually, you are too tired to make a fire and stay up late. Once you make camp you will make dinner and then head off to bed to do it all over again the next day. For the people who love running Tough Mudders or other challenging endurance events, this type of backpacking is right up your alley.

On the other hand, it can be fun to only hike in a few miles and spend more time making camp. The aim may be to spend some time fishing or just spending the day relaxing. Since you aren’t going as far you can get away with carrying more gear such as fresh food, a camp chair, and a hammock to lounge around in. If you see your backpacking trips as a way to unwind from a busy world then this can be just what the doctor ordered.

You don’t have to be one type or the other. One trip may be more relaxing whereas the next is an endurance test of 20 mile days.

Start Small and Test Your Gear Before You Go On A Real Trip

When beginning backpacking it is a good idea to start small and work your way up to harder trips. Keep the distances short and choose trails that are well-traveled so you aren’t on your own if things go wrong. Backpacking is a lifelong endeavor so you have time to work out the kinks.

Before you head out on your first trip in the wild it is a good idea to set everything up in the backyard to make sure you know how everything works. You don’t want to be setting up your tent for the first time in the woods only to discover that you are missing something. A good way to figure out your system is to actually sleep out in the yard as it’s easy to head inside if things don’t work.

If you live in an apartment then practice setting things up in a local park. Pack up all of your gear in your pack and hike down to work out how your pack feels fully loaded.

Learn Leave No Trace Principles

This is the practice of leaving no mark that you were there. Carry out all garbage whether it is yours or something you find along the way.

Visit Leave No Trace at www.lnt.org for more information.

Backpacking Gear List

This is a basic gear breakdown with an emphasis on only what you need. It is easy to overload your pack making your trip much less enjoyable than it could be. You don’t have to have an ultralight gear loadout but keeping the weight reasonable will be much easier on your body and make it possible to hike more miles with less fatigue.

• Backpack – Kelty or Osprey Packs are the best 

You need a bunch of gear to go backpacking and your backpack is how you carry it all. A good guide is to look for an internal frame pack with a capacity of 50-70 liters. The size will be dependent on how compact your gear is. If you have a down sleeping bag, inflatable sleeping pad, and compact tent then you can go for the smaller size.

If possible test out the pack you are looking at in the store with weight in it. Pack fit varies from brand to brand and the only way you will know if it fits your body is to try it on.

When you get your pack also pick up a waterproof pack liner to put in the pack to keep your gear dry. Avoid rain covers as they don’t work at keeping things dry and tend to be awkward in the wind.

• Trekking Poles can be Purchased at Sportsman’s Warehouse

This isn’t something that everyone thinks of as necessary for backpacking but trekking poles have big enough benefits that they should. When hiking with a load on your back you are less stable than usual and when you combine this with the rough terrain you will be hiking over it makes you even more likely to stumble or roll and ankle. Trekking poles add to more legs making you both more stable and faster by involving the upper body muscles.

Additionally, they reduce the load on the knees when descending by up to 30% which can be the difference between debilitating pain which cuts your trip short and a great adventure you will want to do again.

• Shelter, Tents, and More 

While there are a number of different options for a backcountry shelter, when you are just starting out in backpacking it is best to stick to a tent. Unlike a hammock or tarp, a tent is simple to set up if you follow the supplied instructions.

When shopping for a backpacking tent try to keep the weight under 2.5 lbs per person. Ultralight tents are available just expect to pay more and you will have to be careful as the lighter fabric is more fragile.

If you are out with others you can share the weight of the tent by one person carrying the fly and poles while the other person carries the tent body and tent pegs.

Make sure you have practiced setting your tent up beforehand so you aren’t fumbling around after a hard day on the trail.

• Sleep System

This is your sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and pillow. The bag keeps you warm from above, the pad cushions and insulates below you and the pillow works as pillows do.

When looking for a sleeping bag you need to choose between synthetic and down insulation. Down is lighter and packs smaller but more expensive. It is a worthwhile investment though as it will last longer than a synthetic bag helping spread the cost over a longer lifespan.

Sleeping bags come in different lengths so you should try them out to get one that fits. You don’t want too tight but too larger is a problem as well as you will have a lot of extra space you will have to heat wasting energy on cold nights. If you do have a sleeping bag that is too big for you a trick to help is stuff your spare clothing into the foot of the bag to take up the spare space. It will mean you also have warm clothes to put on in the morning.

When looking for temperature ranges get a three-season bag as it will cover everything from summer nights and just below freezing. You can adjust the temperature range by varying how tightly you do up your bag, what you wear, and even adding an insulated sleeping bag liner to extend the temperature range.

Sleeping pads are available as foam pads, self-inflating models, and inflatable in order of price. Foam pads will keep you insulated from the cold of the ground but don’t offer much cushion and are bulky to carry. Self-inflating pads are a little more comfortable and pack smaller. Inflatable sleeping pads are the most expensive but offer options that are the lightest, most comfortable, and smallest pack size.

A self- inflating pad that is 1.5 inches thick would be a good place to start as it will be a good compromise between price, weight, and comfort.

For a pillow, you can get a backpacking specific inflatable pillow or stuff a bag with your spare clothes. Some people find they are comfortable without a pillow while others get a sore neck and back without it.

Experiment at home to find what you need for a good night’s sleep as sleeping in your sleeping bag on a pad isn’t the same as being in a bed.

• Cook Systems at GSI Outdoors 

When out for even just one night you have to make the choice of whether you are going to cook food or just eat pre-prepared foods like trail mix and peanut butter sandwiches.

Going with a no-cook system can save you a bit of weight but will limit your options.

If you choose to cook then a simple system of an iso-butane stove with a single pot would be our recommendation. All you have to do is screw the stove onto the gas canister, turn the gas on and light it. A stove like the MSR Pocket Rocket 2 is simple to use, lightweight, and very reliable. Bring a lighter to ignite your stove even if you choose one with a built-in ignitor as you want a backup if it fails to work.

For a pot, you can choose either aluminum, titanium or stainless steel. The aluminum will be the best compromise between weight and cost. If you are out solo or with just one other person a 750-1000 ml pot will be big enough to boil water or make oatmeal. A pot this size will be big enough that you can pack the gas canister, lighter, and stove inside for transport.

If you are out by yourself then just eat straight from the pot so you don’t need to bring a bowl. If you are sharing then a small plastic bowl will be perfect for your portion of the food.

An aluminum spork (combo spoon and fork) will be all the utensils you need unless you get into fancy cooking.

If you like coffee in the morning, or a cup of hot chocolate at night then bring a plastic mug. A good light weight mug can be universal as a bowl for mixing ingredients or eating soup.

A plastic scouring pad is good to have on hand to clean your dishes and spork. I take a full-size pad and cut it in half. It will fit in the pot with the rest of your cook gear.

• Food

For your first trips, it is a good idea to keep the food simple. Pack things that don’t require a lot of cooking. Anything that only requires hot water will be the easiest.

Aim for foods that are calorically dense if you want to keep the weight low. 125 calories per ounce of food is a good target to maximize your calorie to weight ratio.

Freeze-dried camping meals are easy to prepare as you only have to add boiling water to the bag. You can eat right from the bag so you don’t have any dishes to clean afterward. These can be picked up from most camping stores or online. Meals from Mountain House and Backpacker’s Pantry are very tasty and calorically dense.

Other great options are ramen noodles, instant mashed potatoes, instant rice, and oatmeal. You can add beef jerky to the noodles and mashed potatoes and it will rehydrate giving you a softer chew.

For breakfast, instant oatmeal with protein powder can be a good high energy start to your day.

For snacks throughout the day, I aim for high-calorie foods that won’t go bad such as trail mix, energy bars, chocolate, beef jerky, and bagels with peanut butter. I save the fancy food for when we stop on the drive home.

• Water System – The Top Water System Company is MSR for Backpackers & Day Hikers

Water is heavy so you don’t want to be carrying more than you need for half a day. This usually means two liters. If you are trekking in areas like the desert or high alpine areas then water sources might be further apart increasing the amount you have to carry. A combination of bottles and hydration bladder can get you up to 6 liters pretty easily.

Since there aren’t any taps in the wild then you will have to process safe drinking water from untreated sources like streams and rivers. The water can contain bacteria, parasites, and occasionally viruses depending on where you are. Research the water in the area you are going to find out what the pathogens present are likely to be.

An inexpensive way to do this is will be with chemical treatment. Tablets are the easiest to use. Most are measured out so one tablet will disinfect one liter of water. Choose a brand that contains chlorine dioxide as this will kill just about anything you might encounter including cryptosporidium. Make sure to follow the instructions and wait long enough for it to make the water safe. It generally takes 20-30 minutes for it to kill bacteria and viruses but longer for some parasites.

Another simple method is micro-filtration but most of these filters will not remove viruses. If you are in most places in North America then this isn’t a problem.

To be the safest you can filter and then treat the water with chemical tablets.

In a pinch boiling water will also work but is a slow process and wastes fuel so just keep it as a last resort. If you choose to boil then bring it to a rolling boil for 1 minute ( 5 minutes if you are over 5000 feet of altitude due to the lower air pressure).

• Clothing

For your first backpacking trips, I would suggest keeping it to the warmer months so you aren’t at risk of hypothermia. This will mean you don’t need to pack for freezing temperatures.

Keep your clothing to synthetic and wool fabrics to help manage moisture. Anything cotton will get wet and stay wet. The best choice for footwear is from Fox River. They make the best socks for trekking. 

For a weekend trip, you only need one set of clothes and a change of underwear. Lightweight hiking pants that zip off and turn into shorts are popular for their versatility.

A rain jacket and warm fleece sweater will help you if it rains or the temperatures drop.

Bring a long sleeve top and bottom base layer to sleep in. This can be added to your clothing layers if you hit unexpectedly cold temperatures.

• Footwear options at Sportsman’s Warehouse

Whether you wear hiking shoes or boots will have a lot to do with the terrain and how strong your ankles are. If you are hiking in rocky, mountainous terrain then boots will offer more support and protection.

Whichever you choose make sure that they fit well and have enough room in the toes that you won’t bang against the end when you are descending hills. Bring a spare pair of shoelaces that are the right length for your footwear.

Merino wool hiking socks are recommended to wick away sweat and reduce the chance of blisters. Bring two pairs to wear and a third to sleep in.

• Lighting

Bring a headlamp with extra batteries. Third Eye Headlamps have a large variety of options and colors to choose from. Don’t pick up some basic headlamp, get a third eye. A waterproof model with 200-300 lumens of brightness will be good for hiking at night and making your way to the bathroom in the dark.

• Hygiene and First Aid

For hygiene, you will need toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and wet wipes. It is okay to bury the toilet paper when you go to the bathroom but you should take the used wet wipes out with you. Bring a 1-gallon zip lock bag to carry out your garbage.

Make sure you use hand sanitizer after you use the bathroom or before you are going to handle food.

In addition to a basic first aid kit make sure to add in any medication you may need plus a pain killer/anti-inflammatory (ibuprofen), diarrhea medication(Immodium), and allergy medication (Benadryl).

• Navigation

Getting lost is one of the most common wilderness emergencies and can often be avoided with the right skills and tools.

Learn to navigate with a map and compass. Bring a waterproof map of the area you are going to backpack in.

Also, load a hiking app like All Trails on your phone. You can download maps for use when you are out of cell service.

A handheld GPS is also a good investment. Garmin Inreach-equipped units are mapping GPS with a satellite text communicator and emergency locator beacon built in so you have a way to reach the outside world if you have a problem.

• Sun Protection – Get all Your Sun Screen Products at Amazon

Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to avoid sunburn. A severe sunburn can be a major first aid issue that can be easily avoided.

• Insect Management – The Best Bug Spray is Sawyer’s Premium Permethrin

Bring bug spray and even a bug jacket with a hood if you are going to be in areas that are known for high bug activity.

If you are going to be in tick country then pre-treat your clothing with Permethrin. Bring a tick-removing tool in your first aid kit and check each other for ticks each night.

• Emergency Gear – The Best Medical Gear Bags for Hiking and Backpacking is by MyMedic

There are a few items that you should also have with you in case things go wrong.

A knife or multitool will come in handy for everything from food preparation to first aid.

Bring some duct tape for emergency repairs. Rather than bring a whole roll, just wrap your water bottles with duct tape and you can peel off what you need to repair a ripped tent or jacket.

For being able to call for help bring a whistle. Three sharp blasts repeated every few minutes is an easy way to let people know you need help and the sound carries much further than your voice.

Also, have a way to start a fire. An extra lighter and some cotton pads with vaseline make an effective fire-starting kit.

How Heavy Should Your Pack Be?

With all that gear you want to try to keep your pack as light as possible. Limit your pack weight to 20-25 percent of your body weight. This can be hard with less expensive gear but this is why you don’t bring anything you don’t need.

This means for a 160 lb person the maximum weight would be 40 lbs with all gear, food, and water.

People do carry more than this but it will be more fatiguing and increases the risk of injury.

As you get into backpacking you will inevitably upgrade gear to lighten your load. As long as you don’t skip any necessary items, a lighter pack is always more fun and less wear and tear on your body.

Where To Go?

Depending on where you live there may be backpacking in your local area or you may have to travel a bit. Do a Google search for “best backpacking in (your state or province)”. This can be a great start to finding good routes.

The website alltrails.com is another useful resource for finding trails. They also have an app that lets you take the maps on your phone for offline use.

The local camping or outdoor store is often a treasure trove of useful information. The people who work in those stores are often happy to share cool stories and places to go.

Trip Planning

For your first few trips keep them conservative. Limit your distances to under 10 kilometers or 9 miles per day. Hiking with a full pack is more challenging than people think. Take your time and enjoy yourself.

For your first trips consider a state or provincial park with well-marked trails and established campsites. This way you are within distance of getting help if something goes wrong.

Depending on where you plan to go and how long you need to decide whether you are going to hike a loop or do an out-and-back route. Try to plan to get to your campsite at least 3 hours before sunset so you aren’t rushing to get camp set up.

Staying Safe

Before you go on your trip set up a check-in buddy plan with a friend or family member. Let them know where you are going, what route you plan to hike, when you will call to check in with them, and who to call if you don’t check-in.

This way if something goes wrong it isn’t days before the rangers or first responders start looking for you. This will help you and make their job easier.

Setting Up Camp

Set up your tent at least 25 feet away from where you have a fire so embers don’t burn a hole in it.

Look up and make sure there are no dead branches or trees that can fall on your tent in the spot you have chosen.

Try to find the flattest spot to set up your tent. If you are on a slight slope make sure that your head is on the uphill side or you can wake up with a bad headache.

Try to cook and eat at least 60 feet away from your tent so you won’t attract animals to where you sleep.

How To Pack Your Pack

At the bottom of your pack, you want items that you don’t need ready access to like your sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and spare clothing. This should all be packed in the waterproof pack liner to keep it dry.

The heaviest items should be high in the pack and as close to your back as possible. This is usually your food bag.

Waterbottles fit in the side pockets. Most packs have in internal pocket for a hydration bladder that puts it close to your back.

If your pack has a top lid then put your headlamp, first aid kit, maps, and other items you want quick access to.

You can either strap your tent to the outside of your pack in the supplied stuff sack or split it up. This method carries the weight better. Put the tent body in your pack on top of your pack liner. If it is dry out then you can put the fly in as well. If the fly is wet I would suggest putting it in the outside mesh pocket that most packs have to keep the inside of your pack dry. The tent poles and pegs can be put under the compression straps on the side of your pack next to your water bottles.

Play with different packing styles at home until you have a home for everything.

What About Bears?

What to do about bears is one of the most common questions I get. Contrary to what you see in movies or tv shows, bears aren’t out to get you. But they are wild animals so need to be treated with caution. If you do see one, give it a wide berth.

If you are in bear territory the most important thing is to manage your food. Don’t cook or eat near your tent. In the evening you should hang your foot 12 feet off the ground at least 150 meters away from your camp. Alternatively, you can store your food in a bear-resistant canister. Some areas such as the Adirondacks in New York or the Sierra’s in California require you to store your food in a bear canister. The perfect connister maker for those day hikes or weekend getaways is BearVault. They make a line of bear resistant containers for all your food storage needs. 

Bear spray is available which can add to your peace of mind. If you do carry bear spray make sure you keep it attached to the belt of your backpack so it is readily available.

How To Poop In The Woods

Our final thing is very important but not talked about enough. In parks and busy trails, you are sometimes lucky enough to have outhouses but often there are no facilities for going to the bathroom. Since we don’t want to be hiking trails that are covered in human waste there are a few best practices to follow when you have to do a number 2.

• Move 150 feet from a trail, water source or campsite
• Dig an 8 inch deep hole
• Squat down and poop in the hole. Holding a tree can help with balance.
• Wipe and put the toilet paper in the hole
• Fill the hole back in with dirt and make it look like you were never there.

Final Thoughts on Your Next Backpacking Trip

Backpacking is an awesome pursuit but you want to make sure you are prepared before you go into the wild. It might seem overwhelming at first but it will all become second nature with time.

Double-check your gear list, file a trip plan with a check-in buddy, and be ready for the unexpected as nature has a habit of throwing out curveballs. We all started out as non-backpackers and had to learn the ropes so keep a good attitude and have fun with it. Before you know it you will be the old pro teaching new backpackers all of your tips to help them have a better experience.

written by: Winston Endall – Outdoor Adventure Seeker with a Passion for a life lived outdoors

Simms Fisherman Waders

In 2001, I started fly fishing using float tubes and hitting the mountain lakes in Arizona. My closest hunting and fishing buddies turned me on to the sport of fly fishing. It didn’t take long to get hooked and I was off to the local fly shop to pick up my own Simms gear.

Fly Fisherman’s Gear

As a new fly fisherman, one of my first product purchases was my waders. The shop owner and my friends all agreed you buy what you can afford. I’m the kind of guy who takes care of their tools and I immediately went to the Simms Wader product on the shelf.

I still own those waders. Matter of fact, minus a couple of repairs, I still have and use the same waders I purchased in 2002.

Quality comes to mind when I purchased my waders.

I don’t have the model name for those waders today, but I know they were made of great quality and I have proof because they are still being used today.

The second product I purchased was my felt sole wading boots by Simms. After 15 years and the Arizona garage heat those felt boots got worn out. For years my wading boot was an essential part of my fly-fishing gear.

Why are these Waders so Good

I’m a larger fella and I have gone through some weight changes. What has never changed is my height. As a 5’10” man I found my waders fit me length-wise. And while at times, they were slightly tighter or roomier, I found that the quality of the material never changed.

The double knees and nylon fabric has held up to countless tumbles on the shoreline. The Stockingfoot was always a concern for tearing, but with a little care, I have had no issues over the years.

After 20 years and being packed in my Arizona garage you’d expect some of the functionality of the waders including the suspenders or wading belt would disintegrate. Nope, all the functions of my waders are still in tack and ready for the next fishing adventure.

Why Simms Fishing Gear

I’m a sucker to support locals by buying and using products made in the U.S.A. Bozeman, MT is the place Simms makes their Gore-Tex line of waders.

If you’re ready to go to the next level or get started with quality waders for your fishing expeditions, look no further than Simms.

Mtn Ops is More than Just a Fitness Supplement Company

The Shaggy Outdoor team was recently introduced to the Mtn Ops Supplements company and their brand of products. We watched for a while to see what the company founders Trevor Farnes, Jordon Harbertson and Casey Harbertson along with contributions from Cameron Hanes and Eva Shockey were posting and discussing on their Social Media outlets and found that Shaggy Outdoors and Mtn Ops have much in common.

If you are looking for something more, like a company who feeds families in need, then look no further than Mtn Ops for your workout gear and workout supplements. As a team, Shaggy Outdoors looks to participate and involve themselves with companies having a deep commitment to the outdoors and those companies looking to give back. We are not just blinded by the cool videos or pictures, we care more about the people behind the scenes and believe us when we say, these guys are the real deal.

We are pleased with what we see in the Mtn Ops company and therefore we use and support their products and wish to share our opinions.

Giving Back

A key reason we wanted to partner and promote their products was their mission to feed children and their families. The Operation Conquer Hunger program provides meals to needy families after every online purchase. The program started as a culture from the owner’s parents of giving back when they were young. Trevor himself even experienced the understanding of needing food for his family when they fell on hard times and ultimately when the team discovered 1 out of every 4 children in their backyard of Davis County, Utah went home hungry, so they decided it was time to give back.

When we learned that Mtn Ops provides a meal for every online purchase we were inspired to get involved.

WOW, it was incredible to learn about the desire for them to give back with one meal for each online purchase. Our team at Shaggy Outdoors strives to offer this type of “give back” as our business becomes established.  

Mtn Ops does not just give food, they give to their followers through their Conquer More program and company core values. The team strives to push all people through physical conditioning with conquering and training from the inside/out and improve the lives of individuals and families.  

Don’t wait, head over and shop for your fitness gear and supplements and you may even pick up a free gift. Mtn Ops gives to everyone, even giving back to those who buy on their website, and that is an amazing. The giving approach to their business is why Shaggy Outdoors has purchased their products and want to share their mission and story.

While the Operation Conquer Hunger meals were our number one reason to promote and partner with Mtn Ops, this group is packed full of outdoor enthusiast and individuals looking to strive to better themselves and others using the Golden Rule.

Shaggy Outdoors Team – Adventure Seekers

As avid outdoorsmen ourselves we want others, who cannot get outdoors or do not have the means to get out and hunt or fish, to be a part of our tribe of wholesome and honest outdoor adventure seekers. We strive at Shaggy Outdoors to “take you with us” through our product reviews, videos and blogs showing the adventures that are to be had in the great outdoors. We are here to discuss any of our adventures, pictures, YouTube videos, etc. you can contact us through our website by clicking here or you can touch base with us on our Social Sites @shaggyoutdoors on Instagram and Shaggy Outdoors on Facebook.

Let’s be honest, our team members are a mix of young and old. But all of us strive to keep in shape so our outdoor adventures are memorable, in a good way. Both Scott Myers and BJ Shagena have taken the Weight-Loss System challenge and are continuing to work towards better health using the supplements of AMMO Meal Replacement, ENDURO Cardio Booster, Blaze, Renu and Fanatic Crusher shaker bottle which all are part of this program.

Check out our Review of the Weight-Loss System Challenge:

• AMMO Meal Replacement
• ENDURO Cardio Booster
• Blaze
• Renu

Click Here to Get Scott’s Review of the Weight Loss Program

Kyle on the other hand started the Strength System program and has seen good results. You can find our review of the supplements and our feedback on our YouTube Channel and in our blog posts here on the Shaggy Outdoors website. Just click on the highlighted links to get more information on the products and our opinions.

There is more to Mtn Ops that just Physical Fitness, Hunting, Outdoor Adventure, and Donated Meals. When you click on their link you can check out all the Branded fitness clothing options they currently offer. 

To see current promotions click on Mtn Ops. For more information on the Supplements Offered – check out the site by Clicking Here!

Shaggy Outdoors is an Affiliate Site based on Outdoor Adventure and Gear. We provide our opinions of products and provide those opinions through blogs, videos and our Social Media Pages.

Kong Coolers an American-Made Roto-molded Cooler

Kong coolers’ story started in 1988 with Elkhart Plastics, Inc. an industry manufacturer of components for the Marine, agricultural, food processing, and various other industries since inception. Taking their knowledge from designing and engineering in these commercial industries Kong Coolers was a natural transition as they used that knowledge to build a strong and durable rotomolded premium cooler for outdoor camping use. All their products are thoroughly certified and tested to handle the challenges of the outdoor conditions without breaking down.

Jack Welter, CEO of Elkhart Plastics, Inc. is quoted “We wanted to make the best-rotomolded cooler in America that contributed to the economy while delivering superior ice retention and usability.”

Kong has a six-man engineering group with over fifty years of experience identifying what entails a great hard-shell cooler. Kong coolers are all manufactured roto-coolers with sizes from the largest a Kong 110, Kong 70, Kong 50, and down to the smallest a Kong 25.

Standard Features for all coolers are seen in this diagram:

Models and Pricing

Kong 25

The smallest cooler model at a 25 quart capacity, and the interior measures 13.625″ x 11.25″ x 9.5″ and exterior is 21.5″ x 17.25″ x 14.375″ inches. Kong 25 is perfect for daily lunch or one-day camping or family outing. The cooler capacity is rated as 18 twelve-ounce cans combined with 12.5 lbs of ice. The overall weight when empty is 23 lbs which make for the lightest option. 

Kong 50

This Kong cooler weighs 33 lbs and has a $269 price tag. It has 50 quarts holding capacity and measures 22.625″ x 11.5″ x 12″ which provides ample space to keep food and beverage cold for the entire family. The exterior measures 30.5″ x 17.4″ x 16.875″ and comes with a divider for in-cooler or shelf storage. The capacity rating for the Kong 50 is 32 twelve-ounce cans and 24 lbs of ice. Kong 70

It has a 70-quart holding capacity and goes for $309. The interior measures 26.375″ x 12.125″ x 13″, while the exterior dimensions are 34.5″ x 18.37″ x 17.875″ and is a truck bed size cooler. The empty weight is reported at 38 lbs and like all Kong coolers, it too comes with a divider. Perfect cooler to choose when you’re planning that longer 5-7 days camping trip.

Kong 110

This is the largest of the Kong coolers at the 110-quart size. This also means the price for this Ice Chest is the most in Kong but still competitive in the market at $550. The sizing of this cooler makes for an ideal ice chest when you’re on those longer Fishing or Hunting trips. After you make camp, this chest will be ideal for keeping your food cold but the size will limit your ability to transport the cooler in smaller vehicles. The inside dimensions are 32″ x 13.75″ x 15.375″ while the exterior dimensions are 40″ x 19.875″ x 20.25″. Weight on this cooler, when empty, is reported at 48 lbs. The perfect cooler for the 7-10 days camping trip.

Features

• Kong Coolers use top-notch FDA-certified polyethylene. They utilize the roto-molding process and other proprietary methods to produce a sturdy, laminated bond between the polyethylene and foam insulation. This assists in preventing the occurrence of delamination. Despite the expensive aspect of this procedure, Kong coolers implement it to ensure you end up with a quality product.

• The cooler’s wall thickness surpasses those of other models within this category. Expect the thickness to be between three and four inches thick, depending on the specific wall or model that you need.

• The sealing constituent between the body and lid is another significant feature of the Kong cooler. We call it a gasket while Kong dubs it the ‘insulated Superior Seal.’ The used seal highly resembles the large rubber gasket common in high-end coolers.

• There is also a latching mechanism that offers a closing power between the body and lid. Various brands opt for the conventional system, rubber t-latches which operate using the lip at the base that stretches to fit below a ledge, thus firmly holding it.

• Kong uses another approach:’ Cam Action Latch! It consists of 3/16 inch thick nylon and stainless steel construction. It works by pushing the latch downwards rather than being pulled outwards. Thus, you can open or shut your cooler without having to raise the lid. The cam action latch is suitable for accessibility in tight spaces. When closing, it offers a great bite that assists in adding pressure on the cooler. The Kong latch also looks more professional than the rubber T-latch.

• Kong Coolers also offer easy mobility because of their side handles. The side handles consist of 3/16 inch webbed nylon construction, and their rigid design prevents swinging during transit, which is common with the rope handles. With the plastic-designed handle, we find our fishing tackle doesn’t get tangled with the cooler like some others models with rope handles. It also sports a comfy rubber grip that’s critical during transport in wet or rainy conditions.

• Kong Coolers also have Stay-Put Lid that enables lid-opening to a 45-degree position when you back the cooler against a wall or flat surface. This aspect assists when you want to acquire items in the refrigerator without entirely opening the lid

• The coolers also have a storage divider that you can use as a shelf/ side table and cutting board that directly attaches to your refrigerator. Kong coolers are IGBC certified and available with a lifetime-limited warranty.

• The cooler has a beautiful overall design due to the elegant curves and edges. There are extruded ridges and a Kong cooler emblem on the cooler’s top. This ice chest is also available in five variant colors, such as Bomber Blue, Tactical Tan, Rugged Red, Gorilla Gray, and Snow White.

• The bottom feet are designed using silicon rubber that handles static friction effectively. This promotes cooler stays regardless of the nature of the surface. You will also appreciate the reliable drain plug that generates rapid drain rates without plug removal.

• A Great accessory for whatever KONG you choose to purchase is the Cut’n Tray Cutting Board/Cooler Divider. What other rotomolded cooler offers a cutting board that latches to the sides of the cooler? This addition is great for cutting and strong while BPA-free. Where to store the cutting trays when done? How about inside the cooler as they double as separators for internal food or drinks.

• The Divider Trays are a fantastic addition to the interior of the cooler but when added as saddle tables the cooler just became your TABLE. But to be clear to use the side tables KONG requires the use of the KONG Kicker. The Kicker is a Stainless Steel support bar for the divider. One size does fit all, so if you’re wanting to use the dividers as a side table pick up the KICKER.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Kong Ice containers are among the top ice chests with the most prolonged ice retention thanks to their thick rot molded, quality seal as well as sturdy latches. A specific number of ice cubes left will depend on the model you opt for and the prevailing conditions.
• These ice chests have an attractive and modern design. They stand out from the wide variety of coolers in the market due to the elegant design around the latches and handles. The Kong logo also looks great on the five available color options.
• The coolers also have ridged handles that are super rigid and neat. Their padding consists of 3/16” nylon for a firm and comfortable grip even in wet conditions.
• The manufacturer backs each cooler with a limited lifetime warranty.
• Available with various attachment points for attaching your Kong accessories such as Kong sticker, Cut/n Tray, or divider. These connection points can act as tie-downs for securing the cooler when cruising the water or hitting the road.

Cons

• Due to their heavy-duty construction, they are not an inexpensive option for hard shell roto-molded coolers
• Available in only four sizes

Conclusion

Kong Coolers are manufactured in the US and have vast experience in the icebox industry. They believe they can beat the competition in terms of build quality and ice retention. You can make your selection from the four sizes and five colors.

Build Quality: we like the Kong ice box’s build quality. It has incredibly thick walls, and all elements are made using advanced materials. It has features such as no-skid feet, a large rubber gasket, and drain plugs that offer exceptional utility. It also has plastic handles and a stay-put lid.

Ice retention: these coolers have the most extended ice retention, attributed to the quality, thick rotomolded seal, and robust latches. Expect up to a 7-day cooling under optimal conditions with this device.

Leaving Note

We love Kong coolers because of their impressive features and functionality. They have excellent ice retention figures and offer long-term utility. They look attractive, and we recommend adding these coolers to your shopping cart when looking for rotomolded hard-sided coolers.

REFERENCE & RESOURCES

KONG Coolers, Offical Brand Website