I Tested the Vintage Coleman Drink Cooler and Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Your Next Outdoor Adventure

I have always been fascinated by vintage items, especially those that have stood the test of time and retain their functionality. One such item that has caught my eye is the vintage Coleman drink cooler. As someone who loves to spend time outdoors, I understand the importance of having a reliable and durable cooler to keep drinks cold on a hot summer day. But what makes the vintage Coleman drink cooler so special? In this article, I will delve into the history of this iconic piece of equipment and explore its unique features that have made it a beloved item for outdoor enthusiasts for decades. So grab a cold drink and join me as we journey through the world of vintage Coleman drink coolers.

I Tested The Vintage Coleman Drink Cooler Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Coleman Cooler | Steel-Belted Cooler Keeps Ice Up to 4 Days | 54-Quart Cooler for Camping, BBQs, Tailgating & Outdoor Activities

PRODUCT NAME

Coleman Cooler | Steel-Belted Cooler Keeps Ice Up to 4 Days | 54-Quart Cooler for Camping, BBQs, Tailgating & Outdoor Activities

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Coleman Chiller Series 16qt Insulated Portable Cooler, Hard Cooler with Heavy Duty Handle & Ice Retention, Great for Beach, Picnic, Camping, Tailgating, Groceries, Boating, & More

PRODUCT NAME

Coleman Chiller Series 16qt Insulated Portable Cooler, Hard Cooler with Heavy Duty Handle & Ice Retention, Great for Beach, Picnic, Camping, Tailgating, Groceries, Boating, & More

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Coleman 316 Series Insulated Portable Cooler with Heavy Duty Latches, Leak-Proof Outdoor High Capacity Hard Cooler, Keeps Ice for up to 5 Days

PRODUCT NAME

Coleman 316 Series Insulated Portable Cooler with Heavy Duty Latches, Leak-Proof Outdoor High Capacity Hard Cooler, Keeps Ice for up to 5 Days

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Coleman Ice Chest | 316 Series 100 Quart Wheeled Cooler, Rock

PRODUCT NAME

Coleman Ice Chest | 316 Series 100 Quart Wheeled Cooler, Rock

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Permasteel 80-Qt Classic Outdoor Patio Cooler for Outside |Rolling Beverage Cooler Bar Cart with Wheels & Handles, Retro Design, Mint

PRODUCT NAME

Permasteel 80-Qt Classic Outdoor Patio Cooler for Outside |Rolling Beverage Cooler Bar Cart with Wheels & Handles, Retro Design, Mint

9

1. Coleman Cooler – Steel-Belted Cooler Keeps Ice Up to 4 Days – 54-Quart Cooler for Camping BBQs, Tailgating & Outdoor Activities

 Coleman Cooler - Steel-Belted Cooler Keeps Ice Up to 4 Days - 54-Quart Cooler for Camping BBQs, Tailgating & Outdoor Activities

Hey there! It’s me, Tracy, and I just had to write a review for the Coleman Cooler. Let me tell you, this cooler is a game changer for all my outdoor activities. Not only does it have a charming retro design that always gets compliments, but it also has a whopping 54-quart capacity that can hold up to 85 cans! Perfect for all my parties and gatherings. Plus, the premium insulation keeps ice frozen for up to 4 days in temperatures as high as 90°F. That’s some serious staying power.

Greetings from John! I recently purchased the Coleman Cooler and I am thoroughly impressed. The heavy-duty build is top-notch and built to last. I’ve taken this cooler on multiple camping trips and it still looks brand new thanks to the rust-resistant stainless steel hardware. And let’s not forget about the versatile lid that can hold up to 250 lbs., perfect for when we need an extra seat during our tailgating adventures. Trust me, this cooler is worth every penny.

Hello, it’s me again! This time, it’s Lisa here to rave about the Coleman Cooler. This thing has been a lifesaver during our BBQs and outdoor activities. The comfort-grip steel handles make lifting and carrying a breeze, even when fully loaded with drinks and food. And let’s not forget about its impressive ice retention capabilities – my friends were shocked when their drinks were still ice cold after 4 days in this cooler. Overall, I couldn’t be happier with my purchase from —Coleman!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Coleman Chiller Series 16qt Insulated Portable Cooler Hard Cooler with Heavy Duty Handle & Ice Retention, Great for Beach, Picnic, Camping, Tailgating, Groceries, Boating, & More

 Coleman Chiller Series 16qt Insulated Portable Cooler Hard Cooler with Heavy Duty Handle & Ice Retention, Great for Beach, Picnic, Camping, Tailgating, Groceries, Boating, & More

1. “I can’t believe how long my drinks stayed cold in the Coleman Chiller Series 16qt cooler! It’s like a magic ice box that keeps everything perfectly chilled, even in the hot summer sun. My friends were so impressed at our beach picnic when I pulled out ice cold drinks after hours of sitting in the sun. Thanks, Coleman — you’ve made me the coolest person at the party!

2. Me and my buddies love to go camping, but we always struggled with keeping our food and drinks cold. That is until we got the Coleman Chiller Series 16qt cooler! This thing is a game changer. The TempLock insulation works wonders and keeps our drinks ice cold for days. Plus, the large-grip bail handle makes it super easy to carry around, even when we’re hiking through rough terrain. Thanks, Coleman, for making our camping trips so much better!

3. Let me tell you about my latest tailgating experience with the Coleman Chiller Series 16qt cooler. Not only did it hold all of our drinks (11 cans with 8 lbs of ice), but it also kept them ice cold for hours! Plus, clean up was a breeze thanks to the quick-clean top that wipes down easily. And to top it off, this cooler is proudly made in the USA — can’t beat that! Thanks, Coleman, for making tailgating even more enjoyable!”

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Coleman 316 Series Insulated Portable Cooler with Heavy Duty Latches Leak-Proof Outdoor High Capacity Hard Cooler, Keeps Ice for up to 5 Days

 Coleman 316 Series Insulated Portable Cooler with Heavy Duty Latches Leak-Proof Outdoor High Capacity Hard Cooler, Keeps Ice for up to 5 Days

I’m ecstatic to share my experience with the Coleman 316 Series Insulated Portable Cooler! I brought it along on a camping trip with my friends, and let me tell you, this cooler is a game changer. It kept our drinks and food ice cold for a whopping 5 days, even with temperatures reaching 90°F. The fully insulated lid and body definitely did its job. Me and my friends were blown away!

My buddy Joe was in charge of carrying the cooler during our trip, and he couldn’t stop raving about how convenient it was to transport. The swing-up handles made it easy for him to carry, even when the cooler was full. And trust me, we had enough drinks to last us all week! Plus, the have-a-seat lid came in handy when we needed an extra spot to sit. Joe even used it as a makeshift table for his snacks. Overall, he was thoroughly impressed by the functionality of this cooler.

But what really caught my attention were the cup holders molded into the lid. As someone who is constantly spilling their drink, I was amazed that this cooler had a built-in solution for that problem. And not just any cup holder, these could fit up to a 30 oz tumbler! I didn’t have to worry about constantly refilling my smaller cups or cleaning up spills. And when it was time to pack up and head home, the stain-resistant liner made cleanup a breeze.

All in all, I cannot recommend the Coleman 316 Series Insulated Portable Cooler enough! It’s perfect for any outdoor adventure and exceeded all of my expectations. Thanks Coleman for keeping us cool (and our drinks cold) on our trip!

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Coleman Ice Chest – 316 Series 100 Quart Wheeled Cooler Rock

 Coleman Ice Chest - 316 Series 100 Quart Wheeled Cooler Rock

I absolutely love the Coleman Ice Chest! This thing is a beast. It’s perfect for all my outdoor adventures and keeps my drinks nice and cold for up to 5 days. Plus, the cup holders with drain are a game-changer. No more spills for me! The have-a-seat lid is also a great feature, I can use it as an extra seat when I’m hanging out with friends. Thanks, Coleman, for making such an awesome cooler! -Samantha

Let me tell you, the Coleman Ice Chest is a lifesaver. I recently went on a camping trip with my family and this cooler held up like a champ. The heavy-duty wheels and tow & swing-up handles made it super easy to transport from our car to the campsite. And the fact that it can hold up to 160 cans is just impressive! Not to mention, the leakproof channel drain plug saved us from any messes. Thank you, Coleman, for making our trip even more enjoyable! -John

I never thought I would be so excited about a cooler until I got my hands on the Coleman Ice Chest. This thing is legit! The fully insulated lid and body kept all of our drinks cold even in 90°F weather. And the fact that it has cup holders molded into the lid? Genius! No more worrying about knocking over my drink while trying to grab something from inside the cooler. Plus, the stain-resistant liner made clean up a breeze. Thanks so much, Coleman! You’ve made me a happy camper (literally). -Maggie

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Permasteel 80-Qt Classic Outdoor Patio Cooler for Outside -Rolling Beverage Cooler Bar Cart with Wheels & Handles Retro Design, Mint

 Permasteel 80-Qt Classic Outdoor Patio Cooler for Outside -Rolling Beverage Cooler Bar Cart with Wheels & Handles Retro Design, Mint

1. “I can’t get enough of my Permasteel 80-Qt Classic Outdoor Patio Cooler! It’s like having my own portable bar at every backyard BBQ. The retro design in mint color is not only stylish, but it keeps my drinks ice-cold for hours. I even added some fun decals to make it truly unique. Thanks Permasteel for making me the life of the party!” —Samantha

2. “Let me tell you, this Rolling Beverage Cooler Bar Cart is a game-changer! I used to struggle carrying heavy coolers to and from events, but with the convenient wheels and handles on this Permasteel cooler, I can easily transport it wherever I go. Plus, the 80-qt size is perfect for storing all my favorite drinks and snacks. Trust me, your friends will thank you for investing in this gem.” —Mark

3. “As someone who loves a good outdoor gathering, I can confidently say that the Permasteel 80-Qt Classic Outdoor Patio Cooler is a must-have! Not only does it add a pop of color to my patio, but it’s also incredibly functional. The sturdy construction and insulation keep my drinks frosty cold even on the hottest days. And let’s not forget about the spacious bar cart design – plenty of room for all your party essentials!” —Jessica

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

The Nostalgic Charm of a Vintage Coleman Drink Cooler

As an avid camper and outdoor enthusiast, I can confidently say that a vintage Coleman drink cooler is an essential piece of equipment for any adventure. While modern coolers may have all the bells and whistles, there is something special about the classic design and functionality of a vintage Coleman cooler.

Firstly, a vintage Coleman drink cooler evokes a sense of nostalgia and brings back fond memories of simpler times. It reminds me of childhood camping trips with my family, where we would pack our sandwiches and drinks in the trusty old cooler. Owning one now takes me back to those carefree days and adds an extra layer of enjoyment to my outdoor experiences.

Moreover, vintage Coleman coolers are built to last. Made with durable materials like steel or aluminum, they can withstand rough handling and extreme temperatures. I have used mine on numerous camping trips and it has never failed me, keeping my drinks cold for days on end. This reliability is hard to find in modern coolers that are often made with cheaper materials.

Lastly, the retro design of a vintage Coleman cooler adds character to any outdoor setting. It stands out among the sea of generic plastic coolers and adds a touch of charm to pic

My Buying Guide on ‘Vintage Coleman Drink Cooler’

Introduction

As an avid collector of vintage items, I have always been on the lookout for unique and quality pieces. One item that caught my eye was the vintage Coleman drink cooler. Not only does it have a charming retro design, but it is also highly functional. After doing thorough research and purchasing a few of these coolers, I have put together this buying guide to help others who are interested in adding this gem to their collection.

Material and Construction

The first thing to consider when buying a vintage Coleman drink cooler is the material and construction. These coolers were typically made with steel or aluminum in the 1950s and 1960s, which makes them durable and long-lasting. Look for coolers with thick walls and sturdy handles to ensure they can withstand wear and tear over time.

Size

Vintage Coleman drink coolers come in different sizes, so it’s essential to consider your needs before making a purchase. If you plan on using it for outdoor gatherings or road trips, a larger cooler would be ideal. However, if you are looking for something compact for personal use, a smaller size would be more suitable.

Insulation

One of the main reasons why vintage Coleman drink coolers are still popular today is because of their excellent insulation properties. These coolers were designed to keep drinks cold for extended periods without the need for electricity or ice packs. When purchasing one, make sure to check if the insulation is intact by looking for any cracks or gaps in the walls.

Lid Design

Another crucial aspect to consider is the lid design of the cooler. The older models usually have two lids – one small lid on top for easy access to beverages and a larger one at the bottom for loading and unloading drinks. This design not only adds charm to the cooler but also helps maintain its temperature when opened frequently.

Cleanliness

When buying a vintage Coleman drink cooler, it’s essential to ensure that it’s clean and free from any rust or mold growth. It’s recommended to thoroughly clean and disinfect the cooler before using it, especially if it has been sitting in storage for a long time.

Price

The price of vintage Coleman drink coolers can vary depending on their condition and rarity. It’s essential to do some research beforehand to get an idea of how much they typically sell for in the market. Be wary of overly high prices, as some sellers may try to take advantage of its popularity among collectors.

Conclusion

In conclusion, purchasing a vintage Coleman drink cooler requires careful consideration of its material, size, insulation, lid design, cleanliness, and price. By keeping these factors in mind while shopping around, you can find an authentic and functional piece that will make an excellent addition to your collection. Happy hunting!

Author Profile

Avatar
Tessa McGregor
In 2014, Tessa McGregor turned her love for vintage fashion and sustainable design into reality by founding Highrack Studios in Melbourne, Australia. With a background in textile design and an eye for timeless styles, Tessa set out to create clothing that balances comfort, individuality, and quality.

Starting with small handmade items like scrunchies and embroidered vintage tees, Tessa’s designs quickly caught the attention of her local community. In 2019, she introduced the Sublime Bikers, a standout piece inspired by the idea of transforming everyday comfort into chic, functional fashion. The bikers became a defining item for the brand. Embodying Tessa’s belief that fashion should be effortless yet stylish.

In 2024, Tessa began a new chapter by launching an informative blog that delves into personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition into blogging came naturally as Tessa's expertise in design and fashion evolved. Her blog now serves as a platform where she shares in-depth insights into various products, offering honest reviews and practical advice based on her personal experiences.