Best Floating Coolers & Ice Chests Reviewed

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
 Amscan Palm Tree Inflatable
Test Winner: Amscan Palm Tree Inflatable
Amazon Link
With an eye to lower prices and a hopeful eye to pool season starting up again, we offer you this list of our favorite floating coolers for your pool parties or whatever summer means to you. But how can you spice up any event or party that you attend this summer? One of the best ways to spice up summer parties: a floating cooler. It's a step beyond plastic coolers so we offer you the best of the best here.

Standout Picks

 Amscan Palm Tree Inflatable
What is better than a floating cooler in a pool in the heat of the summer? How about a wicked cool floating cooler that is shaped like a palm tree? The Amscan Palm Tree Inflatable Cooler is quickly becoming one of the most popular and desired summer accessories for every friend and family event. Built from quality materials, you can rest assure that this product can last for many, many summer parties.
Amazon Link
$15.77
 Intex Mega Chill II
When it comes to the floating cooler industry, there are not many companies or products that can compete with the Intex Mega Chill II Float Cooler. For one, this brand is quite famous and has lead the industry for many years. With this product, consumers can store up to 72 cans and even put their own personal 48-quart cooler in it. The best part about this product is that it’s built to last and from some of the best materials, meaning you can use it for the entire summer.
Amazon Link
 AirHead Watersports
Summer might not be here yet; however, it’s time to get ready for pool season. If you want to stand out this year and have all of your friends or family talking about your event, then you need an AirHead Watersports Floating Cooler. There is just something so unique about this red and yellow cooler that has so many people interested in purchasing it. Let’s find out more!
Amazon Link
$46.50
 SwimWays Kelsysus
The SwimWays Kelsyus Floating Cooler is a popular option for consumers because this product represents the quality of the industry. If you decide to purchase this product, you are investing in a high-quality floating cooler that is designed to last. With easy-to-clean features, you can take care of this cooler and take it with you wherever you want to go.
Amazon Link
 CreekKooler Floating Center
The last product on our list for today is the CreekKooler Outdoor Floating Center. This product, while relatively new, is quickly becoming a popular summer accessory. Consumers can pick from over five different designs and colors, all of which are great compliments for the summer. With great construction and design materials, this product is destined for greatness.
Amazon Link
 Dreambuilder Inflatable Party Pool Barge
Okay, we were a bit hesitant about including this one in there but you know what, for some people, it's not just about keeping your drinks cool and handy, it's also about drinking those drinks quickly in a very competitive format. Hence the Dreambuilder Inflatable. Not only do you have a cooler here, but you also have a bowling pin set up that will allow you to pay any kind of drink pong you can imagine. But keep in mind the ping pong ball is not included so make sure you head to the local sports supply store before your pool party.
Amazon Link
 Greenco Inflatable Beverage Mat
If you are looking for a simple floating cooler that can spice up a summer party, check out the Greenco Inflatable Buffet and Serving Bar. This product quickly became a popular party-option given its cost-effective price and great value and usability. Whether you are having a summer luau or just having some friends over, this product is always the subject of some conversation.
Amazon Link
$29.99
 Byer 1700 Big Bobber
The Byer 1700 Big Bobber Floating Cooler has captured the attention of many summer enthusiasts simple because of its wild designs. This is a strong and lightweight floating cooler where you can store up to 12 cans and keep them cold while you enjoy the summer party. If you have ever dreamed of having a giant floating fishing bobber in your pool, then this is the perfect party accessory.
Amazon Link
 Sevylor Cooler Float
If you are looking to add some green to your life, perhaps you should check out Sevlor’s Cooler Float. This inflatable cooler has taken the industry by storm and become quick party favorite. With the ability to fit a 28-quart cooler, this is one product that can turn a dry and quiet pool conversation into a music popping fiesta.
Amazon Link
$24.00
 Bestway Coolerz
If you are looking for a simple floating cooler that has a nice and subtle design, the Bestway CoolerZ is worth your consideration. This product is much smaller in nature, but that does not compromise the structural integrity or the quality of the cooler itself. What we have here is a great product that’s well-design and ready to take over the summer.
Amazon Link

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Materials

Materials

When looking at any product, especially floating coolers, you need to pay close attention to the types of materials that the manufacturer is using. The type of material that they choose will speak volumes about the quality and dedication to becoming the best in the industry. Typically, companies stick to PVC materials or vinyl as these are the safest and most durable materials for pool and water equipment.

Additionally, we also suggest taking the time to look at what previous customers have said about the material. Keep in mind, there are varying degrees of material and, by some manufacturers, may use thinner materials at a cheaper cost. This makes a massive difference!

Durability

Durability

We have all purchased pool and water accessories that, after a few days, the product rips, tears, or simply pops. In efforts to avoid this from happening with your future floating cooler, it’s vital to consider the durability of the product. Now, many times, the durability of the product stems down to the physical design of the product, how it’s manufactured, and the type of materials used. With that being said, you should always look out for this information before purchasing any pool product. Additionally, to provide readers with only the best products on the market, we went as far as to read previous reviews of each product to ensure that each product can withstand extensive use.

Size

Space and Size

There are so many different products on the market today to pick from. All of these range in size, shape, and the amount of space to store drinks or food. With that being said, prior to picking out any product, we highly suggest taking the time to get clear about what type of product do you need. Are you looking for a floating cooler for a larger party? Do you want a floating cooler for a couple of friends and family members? Do you plan to use your own cooler? Understanding what is important to you can help in figuring out what size float is best for you. In evaluating different products, we took into consideration the space and size of each product. Each product on our list offers consumers a wealth of space to store their beverages, while also being small enough and convenient where it does not subtract from the party.

Effectiveness

Insulation

One of the biggest let downs is when you purchase a floating cooler that cannot keep your drinks cold. Now, this will only happen when you are not careful or don’t look out for the important feature known as insulation. Typically, top-notch competitors will share with consumers their insulation strategy - whether this means a simple insulated material on the inside or a patented foam interior that is designed to retain the cold. The most important note to take away is that you don’t want to purchase any floating cooler unless it is built with some degree of insulation. However, if you are purchasing a product a floating cooler to hold your personal cooler, then insulation is not as important.

Portability

Inflation/Deflation

Since we are talking about inflatable products, it’s important to evaluate the ease-of-use when it comes to inflation or deflation. In our opinion, a high-quality floating cooler should not be difficult to inflate. If you are finding yourself struggle to inflate the product - it’s not worth it. Many of the best companies on the market will provide consumers, or sell in addition to a float, a high-quality air pump, which is always totally worth it. In addition, deflating the float should be equally as easy, if not easier! Given the consumer culture of today, this is something that many previous customers will be talking about. If you are interested in learning about the ease of use of a product, read the description - but don’t forget the customer reviews.

Stability

Stability

Can you imagine purchasing a floating cooler and putting all of the party’s drinks inside of it and, all of the sudden, it tips over and all of the drinks are ruined? Worse off, if some of the drinks were open, do you know what that means for the pool? Stability is a crucial ingredient of high-quality floating cooler. As we evaluated each float, we pay very close attention to how each company talked about their float. Additionally, we looked into what previous customers have said about the product and how well it held up in the water. You should not always assume that a floating cooler will be able to withstand a lot of weight and float.

Style

Design and Colors

When it comes to floating coolers, one important characteristic that we used to evaluate each product is the design and color scheme. Reason being, these products are made for pool parties, beach parties, or even events at the lake. To have a product that is dull in color or has a boring design can be a huge letdown. Consumers purchase these products to become the “thing” of the party. With that being said, as we evaluated each product, we scanned each brand for their different types of floating coolers. What you will find on our list are the very best of products, designs, and colors. Some of the products we listed above come well-designed and colored and others give consumers the opportunity to get creative.

10 Best Floating Coolers

1. Amscan Palm Tree Inflatable

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$15.77
 Amscan Palm Tree Inflatable
Amazon Link

What is better than a floating cooler in a pool in the heat of the summer? How about a wicked cool floating cooler that is shaped like a palm tree? The Amscan Palm Tree Inflatable Cooler is quickly becoming one of the most popular and desired summer accessories for every friend and family event. Built from quality materials, you can rest assure that this product can last for many, many summer parties.

Unique Design for the Summer

What a better way to ring in the summer than with a cute palm tree, right? This product has captured the attention of summer enthusiasts due to its unique design. In fact, many people end -up purchasing this party for the much-anticipated summer luau party or family event. Whatever the need may be, this is a fun product.

Vinyl Materials

It’s important when picking out your floating cooler that you find one that is made from a decent material. In order to protect the integrity of this product, the manufacturer used a higher grade of 100% vinyl materials. So, whether you are planning on bringing this to a summer party or leaving in your pool all summer – this cooler can handle any simple task you toss at it. Just be careful there are no drinks on the inside because they might spill!

Cost and Value

This is one of our favorite products in the industry today. The design is unique and festive, and totally worth every penny. Now, the thing with this product is that it does not offer any value, aside from aesthetic appeal. With that being said, when you consider that the best floating cooler in the industry is only a few dollars more expensive, it makes buying this product a tough choice. You have to decide what’s more important, design and appeal or insulation and high-quality floating cooler.

Amazon Link
$15.77

2. Intex Mega Chill II

Where to buy
Amazon Link
 Intex Mega Chill II
Amazon Link

When it comes to the floating cooler industry, there are not many companies or products that can compete with the Intex Mega Chill II Float Cooler. For one, this brand is quite famous and has lead the industry for many years. With this product, consumers can store up to 72 cans and even put their own personal 48-quart cooler in it. The best part about this product is that it’s built to last and from some of the best materials, meaning you can use it for the entire summer.

Up to 72 Cans

Whether you are having a party with your friends or planning on having a family gathering this is a must-buy item. This floating cooler not only is a subject of conversation, but it can also hold up to 72 cans with ice so that you and your friends/family can continue talking about how amazing of a product this really is.

Can Fit 48 Quart Cooler

What makes this product different than others on this list is that consumers can actually put their own personal 48-quart cooler into the base of the float. This product was designed to give you the option between using the floating base, your cooler, or the 6 cup holders that surround the outside of the float.

Cost and Value

When it comes to costs, consumers should always take the time to compare prices and values. For this specific floating cooler, you really can’t beat it. This product is priced at what many previous customers call “the perfect price”. It’s not too pricey and it’s not too cheap. In fact, when you consider the amount of value that’s built into this product, you wouldn’t question it! This is one great floating cooler for the summer.

Amazon Link

3. AirHead Watersports

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$46.50
 AirHead Watersports
Amazon Link

Summer might not be here yet; however, it’s time to get ready for pool season. If you want to stand out this year and have all of your friends or family talking about your event, then you need an AirHead Watersports Floating Cooler. There is just something so unique about this red and yellow cooler that has so many people interested in purchasing it. Let’s find out more!

Insulated Leak-Proof Design

The biggest selling point of this product is the insulated leak-proof design. In other words, the inside of the cooler is insulated to ensure that your drinks will stay cool for as long as possible. The best part about this design is that it’s leak-proof. Now, we should mention some consumers have reported that this design is faulty. You need to be careful with how you use it if you are to buy it.

Up to 24 Cans

In the middle of this floating cool is a handy-dandy insulated leak-proof cooler that can hold up to 24 different cans. As the company says, the cooler is intended to keep drinks cool for a few hours before the ice needs to be replaced. Many consumers have attested that you may need to replace the ice each hour.

Cost and Value

When it comes to picking out the best floating cooler, it’s important to evaluate the costs and the value of a product. When it comes to this specific product, it’s currently placed right on what other competitors are charging. Additionally, this company does a great job of standing out by offering consumers unique sundry compartments and a tethering option.

Amazon Link
$46.50

4. SwimWays Kelsysus

Where to buy
Amazon Link
 SwimWays Kelsysus
Amazon Link

The SwimWays Kelsyus Floating Cooler is a popular option for consumers because this product represents the quality of the industry. If you decide to purchase this product, you are investing in a high-quality floating cooler that is designed to last. With easy-to-clean features, you can take care of this cooler and take it with you wherever you want to go.

Handy Compartment with Zipper

The best way to keep your drinks cold on a hot summer day is with this product’s handy compartment. It’s built with heavy-duty and insulated materials that can help keep up to 18 drinks cool at a time. Whether you are looking to spice up summer or simply looking to stay in the pool longer, this product is a great choice.

Easy to Clean

To stand aside from the competition, this company understand the importance of making cleaning an easy chore. To do this, they made the pull-out liner easy to remove and easy to clean. You won’t be spending countless hours trying to keep up with this product. In fact, you will be spending more time enjoying it!

Cost and Value

Out of the many different floating coolers that we reviewed, this was easily one of the most expensive. In truth, we were quite shocked by the cost of this product. However, it’s critical to look at the value of the product itself before judging. What we can say is that this product is made from great, durable fabric and does a great job keeping drinks cold, which is its job.

Amazon Link

5. CreekKooler Floating Center

Where to buy
Amazon Link
 CreekKooler Floating Center
Amazon Link

The last product on our list for today is the CreekKooler Outdoor Floating Center. This product, while relatively new, is quickly becoming a popular summer accessory. Consumers can pick from over five different designs and colors, all of which are great compliments for the summer. With great construction and design materials, this product is destined for greatness.

Five Different Designs and Colors

For the first time on this list, this floating cooler is the only one that offers consumers a few different colors or design options to pick from. Consumers may choose from beige, royal blue, white, yellow, or cardinal red. What we like about these colors is that they are incredibly rich, regal, and vibrant.

Great Construction and Build

If you want to know why this product is becoming a popular option, you have to also take a look at its construction and build. For one, the inside of the cooler (the part that keeps your cans and bottles cold) is built with a unique foam insulation. Additionally, this cooler has a 1/8 turn threaded water-tight lid, ensuring that no heat can penetrate your drinks. Partner this with the company’s dual wall blow molded constructed and you have arguably one of the best products in this industry.

Cost and Value

Out of the entire industry, this is the single most expensive floating cooler. However, before you are quick to disregard this product, it’s important to evaluate the value that this product can offer you. This floating cooler is evidently built from a whole new grade of materials, all of which not one competitor is using. Additionally, this manufacturer injected a wealth of features on the interior parts of this product, helping to ensure the quality of the cooler and the product. With an assortment of color options and top-of-the-line materials and build, this product is definitely a valuable investment.

Amazon Link

6. Dreambuilder Inflatable Party Pool Barge

Where to buy
Amazon Link
 Dreambuilder Inflatable Party Pool Barge
Amazon Link

Okay, we were a bit hesitant about including this one in there but you know what, for some people, it's not just about keeping your drinks cool and handy, it's also about drinking those drinks quickly in a very competitive format. Hence the Dreambuilder Inflatable. Not only do you have a cooler here, but you also have a bowling pin set up that will allow you to pay any kind of drink pong you can imagine. But keep in mind the ping pong ball is not included so make sure you head to the local sports supply store before your pool party.

Huge in Size
Yep, this isn't just a party barge, there's also a central well that can hold plenty of your favorite frosties. Whatever type of summer party you want to throw, don’t forget to include this party accessory.

Party Proof
Honestly, I was a bit embarrassed to write that headling but what the heck, it's summer. This float is made of an extra-durable PVC that's scratch and tear resistant. It also has a helpful valve system that will let you blow it up with a hair dryer and deflates 5 times faster than similar floats.

Cost and Value
It's a bit pricey as floats go but hopefully it'll last a few seasons considering it's made of heavy PVC plastic that should resist not only scratches and tears but any party fouls that take place in its vicinity. Honestly, it looks like a lot of fun so if pool pong is your thing this is the float for you.

Amazon Link

7. Greenco Inflatable Beverage Mat

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$29.99
 Greenco Inflatable Beverage Mat
Amazon Link

If you are looking for a simple floating cooler that can spice up a summer party, check out the Greenco Inflatable Buffet and Serving Bar. This product quickly became a popular party-option given its cost-effective price and great value and usability. Whether you are having a summer luau or just having some friends over, this product is always the subject of some conversation.

Made from PVC

This specific floating cooler was built from a quality material known as PVC. This is a great material that is known to be durable and sturdy. Additionally, what we like about this product is that it’s eco-friendly, as all of the materials are 100% BPA free.

Lightweight and Portable

One reason why so many consumers prefer this product over some of the competitors is that it’s lightweight, portable, and easy to set-up and deflate. In some cases, you might not even want to deflate it because it’s so easy to move from location to location. You truly won’t find any hassle in bringing this floating cooler from one party to the next. Except that some people may want to keep it!

Cost and Value

When you first look at this product, you might be shocked at its cheap price tag. Now, we would like to say that, just because it’s cheaper than many other products on our list, does not mean it’s cheaply made. This is just a simple floating cooler that is designed to help keep drinks cool – that’s it. There are no bells and whistles or added value to this product.

Amazon Link
$29.99

8. Byer 1700 Big Bobber

Where to buy
Amazon Link
 Byer 1700 Big Bobber
Amazon Link

The Byer 1700 Big Bobber Floating Cooler has captured the attention of many summer enthusiasts simple because of its wild designs. This is a strong and lightweight floating cooler where you can store up to 12 cans and keep them cold while you enjoy the summer party. If you have ever dreamed of having a giant floating fishing bobber in your pool, then this is the perfect party accessory.

Great Design

As we have said above, the one reason why so many people are purchasing this product is not that of the materials or features – it’s simply because of its design. This giant fishing bobber floating cooler makes for a great summer pool party or a great gift for a father or individual who is a fishing fan.

Strong and Durable

Since this is such a precious and awesome looking floating cooler, the last thing you would want is for it to break. What is nice about this product is that it’s built to last. However, given its unique design, many consumers have alluded that it’s important to care for this floating cooler if you want it to last long. The lid may become fragile after a few uses.

Cost and Value

When you look at this simple and aesthetically appealing floating cooler and then look at the price tag, you might be shocked to see how much the company is charging for this cooler. In truth, it’s expensive and you are only paying for the design. There is no added value in this product that helps it or justifies the price. With that being said, this is truly a purchase based on design. If you are looking to have a product that stands out, this is it.

Amazon Link

9. Sevylor Cooler Float

Where to buy
Amazon Link
$24.00
 Sevylor Cooler Float
Amazon Link

If you are looking to add some green to your life, perhaps you should check out Sevlor’s Cooler Float. This inflatable cooler has taken the industry by storm and become quick party favorite. With the ability to fit a 28-quart cooler, this is one product that can turn a dry and quiet pool conversation into a music popping fiesta.

Great Materials

To have a successful party, you need a floating cooler that is built from quality materials. What you have here is a float that is made from high-quality and highly-durable 10-gauge PVP materials. Additionally, to secure the bottom part of the float, the manufacturer included a thick 12-gauge PVP coated bottom.

Easy Inflation/Deflation System

What made this product such a unique addition to our list was the fact that it’s one of the only products that focused on inflation and deflation. The company made it a point to create a mini double lock fast valve to make it easy to inflate and deflate the product. With the leak protection features, you can ensure that this product will stay inflated until you deem the party over.

Cost and Value

When looking at the cost of this product, we were quite impressed. This product does not cost as much as we thought it might, given its value and features. With it’s easy to inflate and deflate system, alongside leak protection, this is a considerable summer option. If you are in the market to make your next summer party different, perhaps you should consider this floating cooler!

Amazon Link
$24.00

10. Bestway Coolerz

Where to buy
Amazon Link
 Bestway Coolerz
Amazon Link

If you are looking for a simple floating cooler that has a nice and subtle design, the Bestway CoolerZ is worth your consideration. This product is much smaller in nature, but that does not compromise the structural integrity or the quality of the cooler itself. What we have here is a great product that’s well-design and ready to take over the summer.

6-Cup Holders

Depending on the type of party you are having, this floating cooler comes designed with the industry standard of 6-cup holders. This is a great feature for when you and a group of people are swimming and not wanting to hold onto your drinks at the same time. We would like to say; however, some consumers have mentioned that this float is not incredibly stable. You may want to test it out before leaving drinks opened inside the cup holders.

Cool and Refreshing

This is a great floating cooler that is designed to keep your beverages cool and refreshing. The insulated interior of the cooler can help keep your drinks cooler for longer than what other competitors can do. While it’s unclear how many bottles or cans you can fit, there is enough room for any summer pool party.

Cost and Value

As far as costs are concerned, this product is one of the most cost-friendly options on our list. When looking at this tier of products, this is probably the best in its class. The reason being, this product is well-designed and comes with a nice cooler that is insulated to keep drinks cool for quite some time. What’s also nice about this product is that it’s not hard to maneuver – it’s easy to move and use.

Amazon Link

Sources

  1. Huffington Post, How to Clean Water Toys, Website
  2. AS Pool Supply Warehouse, Clean Pool Accessories, Website
  3. IU Department of Physics, Q&A Best Materials for Floating, Website
  4. Hearth Hook Home, Make Floating Cooler, Website