I finally broke down and bought a Yeti. I stressed more than I should about what size and turns out, the 45 is perfect. A cousin has several, some kept in the back of trucks (feed trucks, fuel trucks etc.) and they're indestructible but he admitted the 65 he has on one is way too big and regrets not getting the 45.
In the past I've had Coleman Extreme's which I thought were awesome. They're several years old now and just don't seem to keep cold like they did, and may have slightly changed shape so they don't close tight like they did.
My wife came in and saw this and freaked. It was worth it though. First time using it, opening weekend, I first put a little (1 bag) ice and cold drinks etc. in it on Thursday, after having it inside and with a 1 gallon jug of ice to pre-chill overnight. I didn't fill it with ice until Friday evening and kept the Yeti in the back of my Excursion, which got somewhat warm as it warmed up for the weekend.
Fast forward to the next Wednesday, 4+ days later, all water of course with a few cold beverages still left. I checked the temp of the water and it was still 39*. I cleared it out and the next day I dumped the water and dried it to put up. The water had jumped up about 15*.
That's way beyond what I expected, especially it not being left closed, but being opened and closed all week.
Are they expensive? Yes and no. Yes, they're a lot more than Coleman, or Igloo etc. But performance is light-years ahead. As far as build quality comparison, again, no comparison. The Yeti is build like a tank, and every tolerance is tight and functional.
So in the long run, they're I don't think they're expensive at all. They're a great value and I can believe, Bear proof, and ranch trucks bed bouncing proof. You'll make up the cost difference in the cost of ice you'll recoup!
FYI, I had no idea, but Yeti recommends using rock salt as an alternative to keeping ice even colder. Or dry ice, although I'd be afraid I'd stick my hand in there! Other than being careful where you dump salty water when done, I think the extreme cold, slightly slushy beer thing might be worth a shot!
I'm a believer!!
| Brand | YETI |
|---|---|
| Color | A2 Desert Tan |
| Material | Polyethylene (PE) |
| Package Information | Cans |
| Capacity | 42.59 Liters |
| Product Dimensions | 13.38"D x 25.75"W x 15.38"H |
| Item Weight | 24 Pounds |
| Special Feature | Portable |
| Included Components | YETI Tundra 45 Cooler (Desert Tan) |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Camping | Hiking | Fishing | Hunting | Travel |
| Model Name | YT45T |
| Pattern | Solid |
| Insulation Material | Polyurethane Foam |
| Chamber Depth | 18.37 Inches |
| Chamber Height | 15.5 Inches |
| Chamber Width | 9.5 Inches |
| Item Package Dimensions L x W x H | 25.7 x 16.5 x 16.3 inches |
| Package Weight | 12.2 Kilograms |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 25.5 x 16 x 15.5 inches |
| Brand Name | YETI |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| Warranty Description | as listed |
| Suggested Users | unisex-adult |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Manufacturer | YETI |
| Part Number | 10045010000 |
| Style | Street |
| Size | 45 quart |
