Best esky Australia reviews and top picks. Read here a complete guide on choosing an esky for everyday outings to the park and beach, or your next camping trip.
An esky is an essential item for every household as they are fundamental if you are wanting to spend long days on the beach or in the park. If you enjoy camping and boating and don’t want to invest in a fridge then an esky cooler is an absolute necessity.
If you landed on this page hoping to find the best esky cooler then you’re in the right place!
You may be surprised to know how many important elements of an icebox there are to consider. The good news is I have explained them all in the below guide to help you make a well-informed decision before purchasing.
As an icebox can be an expensive investment and with an abundance of them on the Australian market I also include in this best esky Australia guide information and reviews on the top-rated options to help make your decision simpler.
Hopefully, after reading this guide you will have a clear idea of the best cooler for you.
Continue reading to find the shortlist of the best Australian esky in 2022!
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read the disclaimer for more information.
Post was updated in February 2022
Table of Contents
My Top Three Picks of Icebox Brands
Before I jump into the comparison list and detailed information on the best coolers in the Australian market I am sharing why and how I chose the below three brands.
A lot of research was done to ensure this article offered relevant information to assist consumers with purchasing an icebox they will be happy with.
Starting with a large list that was acquired through the help of camping travel forums. The options were narrowed down with the assistance of the website CHOICE, Australia’s leading consumer advocacy group.
Equipped with the insights on features that consumers should look for in a great icebox I searched the Australian camping websites and read reviews straight from the customers.
Finally, before making the shortlist I contacted Tentworld directly to ask for their professional feedback.
Note: : I have included in this guide links to Tentworld, and BCF Australia as they are two of the largest and oldest Australian online camping stores and I have purchased from both, so I trust in their companies.
Read on for more information on the three brands chosen along with a full review of the iceboxes.
Dometic Ice Chests
With a long history in refrigeration that dates back to the early 1900s Dometic is a trusted brand that specialises in various cooling solutions for outdoor recreation.
Dometic iceboxes feature an effective insulation system and a specially designed seal that can keep the items inside cold for a long period in any type of hot environment.
The robust plastic is extremely durable and will withstand rough conditions. For portability, the small cool-ice boxes have a carry strap and the larger options have strong polyethylene handles.
One of the more innovative brands, Dometic has extended its range of products to include seat cushions, bottle openers, and fishing rod holders. Click here to find these items.
More Reasons to Buy a Dometic CI
What I loved about the Dometic Cool-Ice CI ice boxes upon research is regardless of size their effective insulation system of thick refrigeration grade foam and a unique rotomoulded design keeps ice for several days or longer, depending on weather conditions.
The rotomoulded design helps to prevent weak spots in the esky boosting its durability, which is found in other brands such as Yeti.
The Dometic iceboxes are made extremely strong to withstand various outdoor adventures, tough conditions, and exposure to weather, yet the company still provides a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty to give consumers peace of mind.
If you are searching for the best small esky, Dometic offers a wide range of sizes to suit every need and occasion from a picnic in the park to a camping trip.
The Domestic Cool-Ice icebox is easy to clean after each use due to the food-grade polyethylene (plastic).
The handles are strong, rubber latches are durable, and the fully integrated hinges assist with preventing cold air from escaping or heat from entering the icebox.
Yeti Coolers
The Yeti coolers have often been referred to as “virtually indestructible” as durability is of high importance for every cooler made. The hard coolers stand the test of all extreme weather conditions and soft coolers are waterproof and leakproof.
In 2006 the Seiders brothers founded Yeti intending to create a cooler that could be used every day while withstanding rough treatment and various weather conditions. Now one of the industry leaders for outdoor gear, including their coolers, Yeti is an iconic brand and their products stand out from the competition.
Yeti coolers are not only built to last but designed to look good with some models coming in different colour options of either white, navy, tan, sagebrush, and aquifer blue.
The Yeti coolers are one of the most expensive on the market, but for many good reasons, as I share below. What I also discovered is customers of Yeti coolers are exceptionally loyal to the brand due to how it performs compared to others.
More Reasons to Buy a Yeti Cooler
What I loved about the Yeti coolers upon research is they have been built with superior ice retention in mind.
The rotomolded polyethylene shell is extremely durable while on the inside up to 3 inches of PermaFrost insulation and the FatWall Design is what keeps the contents cold.
The interlock lid system and the freezer-quality seal that circles around the lid minimise air exchange and create a barrier from the heat.
Another two features of the Yeti that make them extremely durable are the interlocking hinge system and heavy-duty rubber latches. You won’t need to worry about a broken hinge or latch again!
The textured grip handles make transportation of the Yeti coolers effortless.
The Yeti Tundra and Yeti Roadie are covered by a 5-year limited warranty against defects in material and workmanship.
All Tundra models come standard with one dry goods basket, and other accessories from beverage holders, rod holster, cushions plus more are available to purchase.
Note: Tentworld is one of only two retailers who are authorised to sell Yeti merchandise online.
Evakool Ice Boxes
If buying from an Australian company is important to you, Evakool is a well-known supplier in Queensland that has been selling iceboxes and portable fridges since 1994.
Evakool has affordable cooler options and their IceKool range have been designed for Australian conditions. Featuring a durable polyethylene cabinet, superior insulation, and easy-to-use latches the iceboxes keep food cool if you are travelling for an extended time, or heading out for a day trip.
All models come with quality handles, while three of the smaller designs also come with a convenient carry strap. We have an Evakool Icebox and it has been a brilliant esky for parties, camping, and travelling.
More Reasons to Buy an Evakool Icebox
What I loved about the Evakool Icekool icebox upon research is they offer a combination of durability, quality, and performance. If you are searching for the best price esky, Evakool offers value for money products.
Evakool’s superior insulation and robust polyethylene cabinet can hold ice for several days while also being resilient to rust or corrosion.
A brilliant all-rounder the Evakool’s range in size from a small esky suitable for a day outing to the beach or park to eskies over 100 litres which are well suited to travelling, camping, and boating.
The handles are heavy-duty and can be used as a tie-down point in the back of a 4WD. The larger models come with four handles to assist with heavier loads and to make it easier for two people to carry.
The heavy-duty lid is reliable to be used as a seat and the latches are durable and simple to operate to ensure the lid stays closed while in use.
The Evakool design on the inside is smooth and the larger models I mention below come with a drainage bung making them hygienic and easy to clean after use.
All models across the range come with a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Compare below the Best Esky to Buy in 2022
Before I go into detail on the top-rated Australian cool box on the market, the below table is a way to compare each of the iceboxes and their important features.
Continue reading to find a review and more information on each of the iceboxes named.
Note: Slide across to see the full table
| Name | Image | Capacity | Weight | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yeti Roadie 24 Icebox |  | 20 L | 5.8 kg | Check Price |
| EvaKool IceKool Icebox |  | 21 L | 3.4 kg | Check Price |
| Yeti Tundra 35 Icebox |  | 25.3 L | 10 kg | Check Price |
| Dometic Cool Ice Rotomoulded Icebox 33L |  | 33 L | 6 kg | Check Price |
| Yeti Tundra 45 Icebox |  | 31 L | 11 kg | Check Price |
| Dometic Cool Ice C142 Icebox |  | 43 L | 8.7 kg | Check Price |
| EvaKool IceKool Icebox |  | 46 L | 7 kg | Check Price |
| Dometic Cool-Ice 55 Rotomoulded Icebox 56L |  | 56 L | 10.6 kg | Check Price |
| Evakool Fibreglass Icebox |  | 60 L | 16 kg | Check Price |
| Dometic Cool-Ice 110 Icebox |  | 111 L | 18 kg | Check Price |
How an Icebox Works
Australia is often referred to as the hottest place on earth, so refrigeration of food and drinks when travelling or going on a day outing is particularly important. In the 1950s a need was seen for an icebox that could fit into a car boot and be used for picnics or travel.
Iceboxes have a thermal barrier that keeps the food cold by protecting it from the external temperature.
Over time the materials, size, shape, and colours of coolers have changed, but the purpose and need for them remain the same.
How to Choose the Best Esky in Australia
Whether you’re after a cooler for a day trip to the local park, beach, or searching for the best esky for camping there are features worth considering to make sure you purchase an icebox that you will be happy with.
When buying an icebox, consider the below factors.
Features to Consider when Choosing an Icebox
Esky Sizes, Weight, and Capacity
Size is one of the major features that people need to think about before purchasing an icebox. If you purchase something too big or small you may not use the cooler as desired or need to buy another which isn’t cost-efficient.
Most iceboxes are now made with plastic and this helps considerably to reduce the weight. In saying this, large iceboxes filled with ice, food, and drinks can become heavy and if you plan on transporting the cooler this is a careful consideration.
If weight is something high on your priority list check out here the best esky on wheels – The Yeti Tundra Haul Wheeled Icebox 50L.
The second important feature is the internal size of the icebox and how much it can hold. Once again this will be a personal preference depending on what you plan to use it for, the length of time, and how often.
If you are searching for the best camping esky then a cooler capacity of around 40-50 litres is a popular choice.
Insulation and Durability
An icebox that has sturdy thick walls will offer better insulation and keep the items inside cooler than ones where the lids or walls compress. They are also likely to be more durable which makes them last longer and have the bonus of being used as a seat.
When choosing an icebox the seal, lid, and lock are extremely important as this will ensure the items inside stay cold. They should be easy to open and have a latch to close.
Any handles on the icebox must be strong and easy to grip as they need to hold the weight of the icebox plus the items inside.
Drainage
In larger iceboxes, a drainage plug is essential as this is where you will drain any melted ice from the cooler. As smaller iceboxes are lighter in comparison the melted water can be tipped from the opening.
Price
Iceboxes can range in price and a hard icebox typically start from $80 and move into the hundreds of dollars for larger models. When considering your budget, think about the life span of the icebox you are purchasing as it will be an investment you will own for a long time.
Upon my research, I found many people have owned their iceboxes for years and once you average the cost over the life of the esky and how much it will be used, you will see the value of the product.
Other Features
If you are searching for an esky to take to your next picnic or trip to the beach there are many cheap iceboxes on the market without the bells and whistles that will suit your requirements.
Then there are the other types that are armed with extra features you may prefer. Such as wheels to help with easy transportation, or dividers to use inside.
Dry ice is a popular option for many campers who are travelling with an icebox. It can however be harmful to the cooler, so if this is important to you, check the manufacturer’s information to see if dry ice can be used. If you want to know how to keep items in the esky cool without using dry ice, see my packing tips below.
Best Esky Australia Reviews 2022
With any luck, after reading the above information you have gained an insight into all the important features of an esky. Finding the right icebox for your needs is a personal decision and some of these features may be more important than others, which is why you will find below a detailed guide of the best Australian esky on the market for 2022.
Please note: The iceboxes below do not include the containers displayed in some of the images. This is for illustration purposes only.
Yeti Roadie 24 Icebox 20L
The Yeti Roadie 24 is an upgrade to the tried-and-true Yeti 20 with 20% more space, 10% lighter, and performing 30% better thermally.
Features
- Rotomolded construction making it extremely tough, yet lighter for transportation.
- Up to 3 inches of PermaFrost Insulation assisting to keep ice for longer.
- Interlocking hinge design with high-quality hinge pins preventing breaking or snapping.
- Super efficient one-handed quick latch for opening and closing.
- Carry strap for easy transportation.
- Internal height is 33cm, for most wine bottles and soft drink bottles to stand upright.
Specs
- External Dimensions: 44.5cm x 41.9cm x 38.7cm
- Internal Dimensions: 31.8cm x 33.7cm x 27.6cm
- Capacity: Holds 18 cans
- Weight: 5.8kg
Featured Review: “What a great product – keeps things Ice cold for days bigger than you think but easy to carry around. Very happy with this product”. – Jennifer
Click here to check current prices and read more information
EvaKool IceKool Icebox 21L
Features
- Designed and tested in Australian conditions.
- Lightweight but sturdy roto-moulded polyethylene cabinet.
- Low heat absorption due to the light colour.
- Quality fittings, and handles can be used as tie-down points.
- Smooth walls making it hygienic and easy to clean.
- Guaranteed not to rust or corrode.
Specs
- External Dimensions: 435mm L x 320mm W x 305mm H
- Internal Dimensions: 375mm L x 250mm W x 235mm H
- Capacity: 21L – approx. 27 cans
- Weight: 3.4kg
Click here to check current prices and read more information
Yeti Tundra 35 Icebox 25.3L
Features
- Rotomolded construction making it extremely tough, yet lighter for transportation.
- Up to 3 inches of PermaFrost Insulation assisting to keep ice for longer.
- Interlocking hinge design with high-quality hinge pins preventing breaking or snapping.
- Easy to transport and carry with textured grip handles.
Specs
- External Dimensions: 39cm x 53cm x 41cm
- Inside Dimensions: 27cm x 38cm x 26cm
- Capacity: 25.3L – approx. 20 cans
- Weight: 10kg
Click here to check current prices and read more information
Yeti Tundra 45 Icebox 31L
Features
- Rotomolded construction making it extremely tough, yet lighter for transportation.
- Up to 3 inches of PermaFrost Insulation assisting to keep ice for longer.
- Interlocking hinge design with high-quality hinge pins preventing breaking or snapping.
- Easy to transport and carry with textured grip handles.
Specs
- External Dimensions: 39cm x 65cm x 41cm
- Internal Dimensions: 27cm x 49cm x 26cm
- Capacity: 31L – approx. 26 cans
- Weight: 11kg
Click here to check current prices and read more information
Dometic Cool-Ice Rotomoulded Icebox 33L
Features
- Shoulder strap and integrated tie-down points for easy transportation.
- Very low heat absorption.
- Lightweight, yet strong
- Food grade polyethylene that’s hygienic and easy to clean.
- Thick polyurethane refrigeration grade foam insulation.
- Fully integrated hinges with stainless steel rods.
- Strong ABS Latches with stainless steel fixing screws.
Specs
- External Dimensions: 36cm W x 40cm L x 44cm H
- Capacity: 33L
- Weight 6kg
Featured Review: “This is my second purchase. Love the size of these iceboxes. I have one for food storage and drinks for long weekend trips away. Keeps food cold and makes a good seat!” – Anonymous
Click here to read more information and compare prices at Tentworld
Dometic Cool Ice C142 Icebox 43L
Features
- Integrated tie-down points.
- Very low heat absorption.
- Lightweight, yet strong.
- Food grade polyethylene that’s hygienic and easy to clean.
- Thick polyurethane refrigeration grade foam insulation.
- Fully integrated hinges with stainless steel rods.
- Strong ABS Latches with stainless steel fixing screws.
Specs
- External Dimensions: approx. 64cm W x 41.8cm D x 35.5cm H
- Capacity: 43L
- Weight: 8.7kg
Featured Review: “This is such an efficient shape and is great not having the bulky handle. Love the soft rubber latches and the moulded body. You can sit on this without the problem of it splitting down the seams as it has none. Its top is totally flat so can double as a table too. You can fit more in. I love it.” – Dallas
Click here to read more and compare prices at Tentworld or BCF Australia
EvaKool IceKool Icebox 46L
Features
- Designed and tested in Australian conditions.
- Lightweight but sturdy roto-moulded polyethylene cabinet.
- Low heat absorption due to the light colour.
- Quality fittings, and handles can be used as tie-down points.
- Smooth walls making it hygienic and easy to clean.
- Guaranteed not to rust or corrode.
Specs
- External Dimensions: 670mm L x 350mm W x 385mm H
- Internal Dimensions: 585mm L x 277mm W x 280mm H
- Capacity: 46L – approx. 73 cans
- Weight: 7kg
Click here to check current prices and read more information
Dometic Cool-Ice 55 Rotomoulded Icebox 56L
Features
- Robust design to suit continuous exposure to weather
- Lightweight, with strong handles for easy transportation.
- Food grade polyethylene that’s hygienic and easy to clean.
- Thick polyurethane refrigeration grade foam insulation.
- Fully integrated hinges with stainless steel rods.
- Strong rubber Latches with stainless steel fixing screws.
Specs
- External Dimensions: 51.5cm W x 57cm L x 43.2cm H
- Internal Dimensions: 39.5cm W x 45.5cm L x 32cm H
- Capacity: 56L or 84 cans
- Weight 10.6kg
Featured Review from BCF Australia: “Took this up the beach for a 4 day trip. Threw in two bags of ice and it lasted the 4 days. Perfect size for small family of 4” – Becstar
Click here to read more information and compare prices at Tentworld or BCF Australia
Evakool Fibreglass Icebox 60L
The Evakool Fibreglass models are the companies premium range. It offers maximum thermal efficiency as fibreglass is a highly reflective material and when this is coupled with an effective insulation system it provides a high-quality icebox.
Features
- Designed and tested in Australian conditions.
- Constructed from white, high gloss fibreglass.
- Low heat absorption due to materials and colour.
- Drainage bung for easy water removal.
- Quality fittings, and handles can be used as tie-down points.
- Smooth walls making it hygienic and easy to clean.
- Guaranteed not to rust, corrode or dent.
- Will not absorb food tastes or odours.
Specs
- External Dimensions: 705mm L x 445mm W x 430mm H
- Internal Dimensions: 580mm L x 310mm W x 310mm H
- Capacity: 60L
- Weight: 16kg
Click here to check current prices and read more information
Dometic Cool-Ice 110 Icebox 111L
Features
- Integrated tie-down points and polyethylene feet.
- Very low heat absorption.
- Lightweight, yet strong.
- Food grade polyethylene that’s hygienic and easy to clean.
- Thick polyurethane refrigeration grade foam insulation.
- Fully integrated hinges with stainless steel rods.
- Strong ABS Latches with stainless steel fixing screws.
Specs
- External Dimensions: 105.5cm W x 53.3cm D x 44.2cm H
- Internal Dimensions: 92cm W x 39cm D x 30cm H
- Capacity: 111L
- Weight: 18.1kg
Featured Review: “Our new esky is awesome love it love it love it, so much space, bottles all stand up because the height, and Kept ice frozen for 3 days in a heatwave so so great.” – Rachelle D
Click here to read more and compare prices at Tentworld or BCF Australia
Tips on Packing an Icebox
One of the things that can make or break a camping or road trip is how successfully you pack the esky. No one wants to arrive at a destination with soggy wet food, and an esky needs to stay cold for as long as possible to ensure the food inside stays fresh.
Use some of the below tips and hacks for your next outing or adventure:
- Instead of one big icebox for everything, take one for food and another for drinks, as the drinks esky will likely be opened frequently.
- Blocks of ice work better than small cubes. Freeze ice-cream or plastic containers. Old milk bottles are also another brilliant way of keeping the esky cool and you don’t have to worry about water sitting in the bottom.
- If taking any drinks, freeze the water bottles or juice boxes before departing. When they slowly defrost you will have a cool drink while they’ll also assist with keeping everything cold.
- Reduce the temperature inside the icebox before adding the items. Once again you can use frozen containers or milk bottles. This helps to extend the life of the ice inside the esky.
- If your esky will be in the heat or sun use a shade cover or towel to repel the rays and increase insulation.
- Make sure the lid is closed completely as you want to ensure the cold air does not escape.
- Try to freeze meats and pack them at the bottom of the esky. By packing them at the bottom they will stay the coldest and any meat juices will not drip on other food.
- A half-filled esky will speed up the melting process, so fill any unused space with frozen bottles or ice packs.
- Use ice packs on the bottom and the sides of the esky. The Arctic Ice Packs are some of the best ice packs on the market. They come in three sizes, are non-toxic, and stay cold twice as long as normal ice.
Note: You can’t use normal ice in conjunction with the Arctic Ice Packs.
Purchase Arctic Ice Packs here.
I hope you enjoyed this guide and find it helpful in choosing the best esky for your next outing or trip! You can find more product information here. If you need help choosing other gear, you may also be interested in reading our guide to selecting the best family tent or our review on the best beach cart.
Do you have any unanswered questions? Let me know in the comments below!
Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links, which may reward us with a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you purchase through them. Thanks for supporting the blog in this way as it allows me to continue sharing helpful content with you.
Image Credit: Thanks to Tentworld for the use of their product images.
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