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10 best portable coolers for the beach and barbecues in 2021

These coolers are equal parts stylish and functional.
Friends carrying cooler and chairs while walking at beach against clear sky
Cavan Images / Getty Images
/ Source: TODAY

Summer is quickly approaching, which means it’s time to start planning some intimate summertime parties, beach hangouts or weekend getaways immersed in nature.

First up on the menu? Drinks. Whether your beverage of choice is a seasonal rosé or simple Diet Coke, keeping those beverages cool is key in the warmer months. While you could easily head to the nearest surf shop and grab a white plastic cooler, there are several more durable options worth investing in that will last you for many summers to come.

No matter what you’re in the market for, large or small, check out our favorite summery portable coolers that marry style with function.

Hearth & Hand with Magnolia Vintage 54qt Metal Cooler

When it comes to larger and more stationary options, this Target exclusive is perfect for any outdoor gathering. This vintage-style metal cooler comes in an eye-catching shade of cherry red and holds up to 65 cans.

Business & Pleasure Co. Cooler Bag

This soft cooler from Business & Pleasure Co. is much easier to carry thanks to multiple handles. You won't just feel good about its portability — it's also made with leftover premium canvas and lined with eco-friendly recycled PVC.

Retro Drink Cooler

If you're having a small gathering this option comes with some retro flair. The colorful, polished chrome exterior brings a vintage touch, while the built-in bottle opener makes it as functional as it is stylish.

RTIC Soft Pack Cooler

With glowing reviews on both Amazon and the brand's website, this soft cooler from RTIC is a heavy-duty favorite. Along with having a tear resistant nylon shell and 100% leakproof interior, it's also made with 2-inch closed-cell foam insulation to keep drinks (and ice!) chilled for hours.

Scout The Stiff One Large Soft Cooler

If you're looking for a soft and portable cooler, this option from Scout is available in tons of colors and prints. The Stiff One features two exterior pockets for utensils or bottle openers, while the interior holds up to 24 cans.

CleverMade Collapsible Cooler Bag

This portable cooler from CleverMade is meant to keep beverages cold for up to 36 hours. Several Amazon reviewers have also praised its easily-foldable design.

Serena & Lily Pacifica Cooler

According to Serena & Lily, this is "not your average cooler." The exterior is made of resin wicker for a unique rustic-chic aesthetic, while the cooler inside features a drain for easy cleaning.

Yeti Tundra Haul Portable Wheeled Cooler

Yeti is known for its heavy-duty durable coolers, and the Tundra Haul option is one of the most portable thanks to its wheeled design. It also features "permafrost insulation" in the walls and lid to keep ice from melting in the summer heat.

Igloo Playmate Elite Personal Sized Cooler

Igloo's Playmate Elite design is a classic option if you're looking for a compact cooler that can still hold up to 16 cans.

Igloo Daytripper Insulated Backpack

The Daytripper backpack from Igloo gives the classic cooler a modern and stylish makeover. Amazon reviewers have raved about its portable design and ability to keep drinks cold for hours. It also includes a bamboo cutting board as an added bonus, as well as a separate pocket at the bottom for food storage.

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