When it comes to keeping your food and beverages cold on outdoor adventures, the cooler you choose can make or break your trip. Whether you’re heading to a remote camping site, tailgating before the big game, or enjoying a weekend at the beach, a dependable cooler is a must-have. One brand that has gained significant traction in recent years for offering rugged, budget-friendly coolers is Ozark Trail. Designed for outdoor enthusiasts and sold primarily through Walmart, Ozark Trail Coolers have become a go-to option for those seeking quality without the premium price tag.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the Ozark Trail Cooler in detail—breaking down its key features, comparing it to other leading brands, and helping you decide whether it’s the right choice for your next adventure.
What is the Ozark Trail Cooler?
Ozark Trail is Walmart’s in-house outdoor brand, known for producing camping gear, tents, backpacks, and, of course, coolers. The Ozark Trail Cooler line includes a variety of products, from soft-sided coolers and lunch bags to high-performance rotomolded hard-sided coolers.
The standout product in the Ozark Trail cooler line is the Ozark Trail Premium Rugged Hard-Sided Cooler, available in sizes like 26-quart, 52-quart, and 73-quart. These coolers are built with durability and insulation in mind, designed to keep ice for multiple days and withstand rough conditions.
Key Features of the Ozark Trail Cooler
1. Rotomolded Construction
Rotomolding, short for rotational molding, is a manufacturing process that produces a highly durable and seamless cooler shell. This same method is used in high-end brands like YETI and Pelican. The result? A cooler that can take a beating and survive harsh outdoor environments.
2. Impressive Ice Retention
Ozark Trail coolers boast thick walls and foam insulation, enabling them to retain ice for up to 5-7 days depending on the external temperature and usage. The rubber gaskets and secure latches help seal the cooler tightly, minimizing warm air intrusion.
3. Bear-Resistant Certification
The hard-sided models are IGBC certified bear-resistant, making them ideal for backcountry camping where bear safety is crucial. This certification means the cooler can withstand attempted bear break-ins when properly locked.
4. Functional Design
From the stainless steel locking plate (which doubles as a bottle opener) to the non-slip rubber feet, Ozark Trail coolers are built with practical features in mind. Most models come with:
- Heavy-duty T-latches
- Built-in molded tie-down slots
- Easy-flow drain plug
- Built-in ruler on the lid for measuring fish
5. Affordability
One of the most compelling reasons people choose Ozark Trail over premium competitors is the price. You get many of the same features and performance levels found in $300+ coolers for half the price or less.
Size Options and Use Cases
Ozark Trail offers several cooler sizes to cater to different needs:
26-Quart Cooler
- Perfect for day trips, picnics, or small fishing expeditions
- Fits around 20-24 cans plus ice
- Compact and easy to carry
52-Quart Cooler
- Great all-purpose cooler for weekend camping trips
- Holds about 64 cans with ice
- Balances storage space and portability
73-Quart Cooler
- Best for extended trips or large gatherings
- Accommodates 100+ cans with ice
- Requires two people to move when full
Each cooler includes ergonomic handles for easier transport, and the solid build ensures your items stay cold even in high heat.
Ozark Trail vs. YETI: A Head-to-Head Comparison
One of the most frequent comparisons made is Ozark Trail vs. YETI. While YETI coolers are widely regarded as the gold standard for ice retention and durability, Ozark Trail manages to deliver comparable features at a significantly lower price.
| Feature | Ozark Trail | YETI |
|---|---|---|
| Price (52-quart model) | ~$130 | ~$350 |
| Ice Retention | 5-7 days | 5-8 days |
| Construction | Rotomolded | Rotomolded |
| Bear-Resistant | Yes | Yes |
| Drain Plug | Yes | Yes |
| Tie-Down Slots | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | Limited 5-Year | 5-Year |
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for brand prestige and ultra-long retention, YETI might be worth the splurge. But for practical outdoor use, Ozark Trail gives you 80% of the performance for 40% of the price.
Soft-Sided Ozark Trail Coolers
In addition to hard coolers, Ozark Trail offers a line of soft coolers, ideal for personal use, lunch bags, or short hikes. These come in a variety of sizes like 12-can, 24-can, and backpack coolers.
Pros of Soft-Sided Coolers:
- Lightweight and easier to carry
- Foldable for compact storage
- Ideal for day-use or short trips
Cons:
- Lower ice retention (1–2 days max)
- Less durable in rugged conditions
Still, for everyday use—like packing lunch for work or a picnic in the park—these coolers are very convenient and affordable.
Best Uses for the Ozark Trail Cooler
The versatility of the Ozark Trail Cooler makes it suitable for numerous outdoor activities:
1. Camping
Its long ice retention, rugged build, and bear resistance make it perfect for off-grid adventures.
2. Fishing
With built-in rulers and durable construction, it’s great for storing bait or your catch of the day.
3. Hunting
Keeps game meat cold and secure during transport.
4. Beach Trips
The heavy insulation ensures your drinks stay cold under the hot sun all day.
5. Tailgating & BBQs
Large capacity and easy drainage make it perfect for storing drinks and food for a crowd.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Ozark Trail Cooler
Pre-Chill the Cooler
Before loading it with drinks or food, cool down the interior by placing a bag of ice inside for an hour.
Use Block Ice
Block ice melts slower than cubed ice, improving long-term cooling performance.
Keep It Full
A full cooler retains cold better than one that’s half-empty. If needed, fill gaps with extra ice or frozen water bottles.
Minimize Opening
Avoid frequent opening of the lid to maintain internal temperature.
Use Dry Ice (Advanced Users)
Some models can accommodate dry ice, which provides longer cooling but requires safe handling.
Customer Reviews & Community Feedback
Overall, customer reviews for Ozark Trail Coolers are overwhelmingly positive. Users frequently praise the value for money, durability, and ice retention.
Common praises include:
- “Held ice for 6 days in Florida heat.”
- “Way cheaper than my YETI and just as good.”
- “Perfect for camping with the family.”
Some drawbacks reported:
- Heavy when full (especially the 73-quart model)
- Latches may feel stiff at first
- Limited color options
Where to Buy
Ozark Trail coolers are sold almost exclusively through Walmart, both in-store and online. Occasionally, they may be available on secondary marketplaces like Amazon or eBay, but Walmart is the most reliable and affordable source.
Final Verdict: Is the Ozark Trail Cooler Worth It?
Absolutely. The Ozark Trail Cooler is a solid choice for anyone who loves the outdoors but doesn’t want to break the bank. It combines performance, practicality, and price in a way that few other coolers can match.
Whether you’re a weekend camper, dedicated angler, or just someone who wants cold drinks for a tailgate party, Ozark Trail delivers.
Summary: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Rugged, rotomolded build
- Great ice retention
- Bear-resistant (hard coolers)
- Practical design with multiple sizes
Cons
- Heavier than some alternatives
- Fewer customization options
- Only available via Walmart
Final Thoughts
The Ozark Trail Cooler stands tall among its competitors by offering nearly the same rugged reliability and cooling power as premium brands, but at a fraction of the cost. It’s not just a cooler—it’s an investment in better trips, longer-lasting ice, and chilled drinks no matter where you go.
If you’re looking for a cooler that won’t let you down or drain your wallet, the Ozark Trail should be high on your list.
