In our testing, the Trailmate crushed these numbers with 8 days of ice retention. Every day during our test, the lid temperature of the Trailmate was 100°+. To be fair, the cooler was filled to capacity with ice, as we do with all of our ice retention tests. However, 4 days should be easily attained with a decent amount of ice used. The Igloo Trailmate 70 is the best rolling cooler for the money we have tested to date. This is a pretty bold statement considering we have reviewed a ton of wheeled coolers in the past.
From grassy fields to beach dunes, from dirt roads to wooded trails, you’re in good company with the Trailmate Journey. The Trailmate Journey has a 70qt capacity and can keep oz beverage cans cold with Ultratherm® Technology built into the body and lid. For what it’s worth, this was one of our “fan favorites” among friends and family while we were conducting an ice retention test which included 25 different coolers. A quick look at the Igloo Trailmate will reveal its’ unique stance.
The Igloo Trailmate Journey 70 Qt Cooler ($279.99) uses Cool Riser Technology® which enhances the cooling performance by elevating the cooler body away from hot surfaces. It also boasts tie-down hooks (using bungee cords or rope, which is not included) and this gives you more carry options, making it easy to haul things like towels, quad chairs or a surfboard to your destination. Our rugged Trailmate cooler has oversized, all-terrain wheels and a sturdy telescoping handle, so you can easily and smoothly roll it to your destination. In no event will Free Delivery benefits be available to you if reside outside the delivery service area of a Participating Beta Test Program Retailer. We like both products and feel that it boils down to the individual.
Our least favorite aspect in terms of usability is the drain found in this cooler. Though it has a wide channel to help empty it of meltwater, the inside of the drain also is turned into a protruding tunnel into the interior by a white plastic tube. Why this is a thing, we’re not sure, as it made the Trailmate the least conducive to emptying igloo water cooler via drain plug of any model we tested. With no latches to mess with, the Trailmate is fairly easy to open when you want some of its contents. It does require a good push down to close it all the way, but that requires less effort than many other coolers, rather a conscious thought to remember to do so before all the ice melts.
Shop smarter with our expert recommendations for tools, gear and money-saving deals on can’t miss DIY and home products. It is worth mentioning, however, that some users noted concerns about the Trailmate’s durability. If you plan on subjecting it to extreme conditions such as rolling it down a mountainside, igloo water cooler you may find it lacking in sturdiness. In addition, a few users have requested an extra latch on the lid. While the absence of lid latches ensures easy opening, we suggest using a bungee cord or a similar item in the lockdown loops if you anticipate your cooler being overturned during use.
Ace may modify or cancel the Beta Test Program at any time in its sole discretion, with or without notice to you. In the event we cancel the Beta Test Program, your Beta Test Program membership will automatically terminate upon the effective date of Program cancellation. In addition, Ace may terminate your membership at any time, with or without notice to you.
Currently we offer FREE FedEx/UPS small package Ground shipping and FREE ABF/YRC freight ground shipping on most orders of $199 or more within the 48 contiguous states. Most orders under $199 will receive $6.49 flat rate shipping. Some irregular shaped or oversized items may include a special handling charge. The charge will show on the product detail page of applicable products. Igloo makes a lot of products, many of which we think are excellent values for what they bring to the table.
As you probably would expect, the tests using more ice did better. The core metal parts of these coolers are made of marine-grade strength aluminum. This material provides very good strength and is rust-resistant while still managing to stay relatively lightweight. As for the igloo soft cooler hardware, it is made of stainless steel which is also rust-resistant and extremely tough. In the case of the Trailmate Marine, it comes with special UV inhibitors built into the wall. They help to protect against sun damage (which can be a major concern in marine settings).