Are RTIC Coolers Good? Lines, Sizes and Who They Fit
RTIC coolers can be a good fit if you want a hard cooler in a useful size range, with a lighter Ultra-Light option and rotomolded Ultra-Tough models. The right choice depends on how much you need to carry and whether lower weight or rugged construction matters more.
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RTIC coolers can be a good fit if you want a hard cooler in a useful size range, with a lighter Ultra-Light option and rotomolded Ultra-Tough models. Choose by capacity, empty weight, and how you plan to carry it.
The main split is simple: the 32 qt Ultra-Light is designed to weigh less than a rotomolded cooler of the same capacity, while Ultra-Tough models use rotomolded construction. RTIC offers sizes from compact day-trip options to larger coolers for group outings.
Are RTIC coolers good?
RTIC coolers are worth considering when their size and construction match your trip. The range includes hard coolers with stated capacities from 20 to 65 qt among these models, plus features such as a bottle opener on the 45 qt Ultra-Tough.
A lighter empty cooler can make a difference when you need to carry it from a car to a campsite or beach. The 32 qt Ultra-Light weighs 14.7 lb, compared with 18.3 lb for the 20 qt Ultra-Tough and 21.1 lb for the 45 qt Ultra-Tough.
That comparison is a trade-off, not a universal ranking. The Ultra-Tough models are described as rotomolded and built for durability, while the Ultra-Light is designed around lower weight.
If you’re comparing brands as well as models, see our guide to the best cooler brands. For other options at different price tiers, browse coolers like YETI.
What are the main RTIC cooler lines?
The RTIC Ultra-Light line puts less emphasis on weight, while Ultra-Tough models focus on rotomolded construction. Match that difference to how often you carry the cooler and the kind of use you expect.
What does RTIC Ultra-Light offer?
The 32 qt Ultra-Light weighs 14.7 lb and is designed to be more than 30% lighter than rotomolded coolers of the same capacity. It has up to 2.5 inches of closed-cell foam insulation and a stated capacity of up to 48 cans.
The cooler can also serve as a bench, step stool, or tabletop. Those uses may help at a campsite or cookout, but the cooler still needs to fit the space you have for transport and storage.
What does RTIC Ultra-Tough offer?
The Ultra-Tough models here use rotomolded construction and closed-cell foam insulation. The 20 qt model is the smallest of these options, while the 45 qt and 65 qt models offer more capacity.
The 20 qt has up to 1.7 inches of insulation and a freezer-style gasket. RTIC says it can keep ice for up to 3 days when you follow its cooling tips.
The 65 qt has up to 2.4 inches of insulation and the same style of gasket, with RTIC’s claim of up to 7 days under its cooling tips.
Those ice-retention statements are brand claims, not guarantees. For practical ways to manage ice and packing, see how long ice lasts in a cooler and how to pack a cooler.
Which RTIC cooler size fits your plans?
Choose by the amount you need to carry and the empty weight you’re willing to manage. The stated can capacities are useful for comparison, but food, ice, and container shape affect how much fits in practice.
| Model | Capacity | Stated can capacity | Empty weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| RTIC 65 Ultra-Tough | 65 qt | Up to 84 cans | 34.4 lb |
| RTIC 45 Ultra-Tough | 45 qt | Up to 60 cans | 21.1 lb |
| RTIC 32 Ultra-Light | 32 qt | Up to 48 cans | 14.7 lb |
| RTIC 20 Ultra-Tough | 20 qt | Up to 30 cans | 18.3 lb |
Is the RTIC 20 Ultra-Tough right for a small trip?
The 20 qt Ultra-Tough suits a smaller outing when you want rotomolded construction and capacity for up to 30 cans. Its stainless steel handle locks upright for one-handed carrying, and it weighs 18.3 lb empty.
That weight is worth considering if you’ll carry it far while full. Choose a smaller soft cooler if portability matters more than a hard-sided design.
Is the RTIC 32 Ultra-Light a better carry?
The 32 qt Ultra-Light is the lighter choice among these four models, at 14.7 lb empty. Its stated capacity is up to 48 cans, which gives you more room than the 20 qt model without stepping up to the heavier 45 qt Ultra-Tough.
Pick it if lower carry weight matters more than choosing a rotomolded model. If you want a cooler you can roll instead of lift, compare soft coolers with wheels.
Who should choose the RTIC 45 Ultra-Tough?
The 45 qt Ultra-Tough fits buyers who want a middle-size rotomolded cooler with room for up to 60 cans. It includes a built-in bottle opener and a silicone cargo net in the lid for smaller items.
At 21.1 lb empty, it weighs more than the 32 qt Ultra-Light. Check the space where it will ride, especially if you plan to store it in a vehicle with limited cargo room.
When does the RTIC 65 Ultra-Tough make sense?
Choose the 65 qt Ultra-Tough when a larger group or longer outing calls for capacity up to 84 cans. It weighs 34.4 lb empty, so consider how you’ll move it before filling it.
RTIC says this model can keep ice for up to 7 days when following its cooling tips. For a better chance of keeping contents cold, chill the cooler before packing, limit lid openings, and keep it out of direct sun when possible.
What should you consider before buying an RTIC cooler?
Compare the cooler’s empty weight, exterior dimensions, and capacity before choosing. A model that fits your food and drinks may still be awkward if it won’t fit in your vehicle or is difficult to carry when full.
The 32 qt Ultra-Light measures about 23.2 x 15.2 x 14.5 in externally. The 45 qt Ultra-Tough measures about 26.2 x 17.7 x 15.4 in, while the 65 qt model measures about 31.6 x 17.6 x 16.7 in.
Handles and extras can also change how a cooler works for you. The 20 qt Ultra-Tough has a locking handle, while the 45 qt Ultra-Tough has a bottle opener and a lid cargo net.
If you’re deciding between RTIC and another hard cooler brand, read our Igloo vs YETI cooler comparison for a look at how different brand lines compare. For a broader overview, see the best cooler types.
Are RTIC coolers good for your next trip?
RTIC coolers are a sensible option when the line and size fit your carrying needs. Pick the 65 qt Ultra-Tough for up to 84 cans, the 45 qt Ultra-Tough for up to 60 cans, the 32 qt Ultra-Light for the lowest empty weight in this group, or the 20 qt Ultra-Tough for a compact rotomolded model.
Before buying, measure your vehicle’s cargo space and think about the full cooler’s weight. If you’re still comparing brands, use our guide to the best cooler brands to narrow the field.
Frequently asked questions
Are RTIC coolers good for camping?
RTIC's hard coolers cover different camping needs, from a 20 qt model for up to 30 cans to a 65 qt model for up to 84 cans. The 32 qt Ultra-Light weighs 14.7 lb, while the larger Ultra-Tough models weigh more.
Choose based on your load and how far you need to carry it.
What is the difference between RTIC Ultra-Light and Ultra-Tough?
The 32 qt Ultra-Light is designed to weigh more than 30% less than rotomolded coolers of the same capacity and weighs 14.7 lb. Ultra-Tough models use rotomolded construction; the 20 qt weighs 18.3 lb and the 45 qt weighs 21.1 lb.
Compare the size and weight that fit your trip.
Which RTIC cooler size should I choose?
Choose 20 qt for a smaller load, 32 qt if lower weight matters, 45 qt for a middle capacity, or 65 qt for a larger group. Their stated can capacities are up to 30, 48, 60, and 84 cans, respectively.
Real packing needs vary with food, ice, and container shape.
Do RTIC Ultra-Tough coolers keep ice for a week?
RTIC says the 65 qt Ultra-Tough can keep ice for up to 7 days when you follow its cooling tips. That is a brand claim, not a promise for every trip.
Starting temperature, how often you open the lid, and outdoor conditions can affect ice life.
