Ozark Trail Cooler Review

Who makes Ozark Trail Coolers?

The Ozark brand was started by Wal-Mart. They are the ones that make the coolers to this day.  Walmart exclusively sold them until 2017. Since then, Ozark Coolers are also available on Amazon and hence, the speculation around ownership and company background.  We hope you find our Ozark Cooler Reviews helpful!

What are the different Types of Ozark Trail Coolers?

There is one main line of Ozark coolers and they are called the Ozark trail Coolers.  Most of these are soft sided coolers but there are a few hard sided coolers and even one cooler with wheels. These Ozark Trail coolers range in size from a 12 can soft sided cooler all the up to a 52 quart high performance Ozark Trail Cooler.

Are Ozark Trail Coolers any good?

What is the best cooler for the price? That is the question. Ozark coolers are a great value. They are an inexpensive alternative to ice chests from Yeti and Coleman.  If you are looking for a product for camping, beach trips or picnics a Yeti maybe overkill.  If you need a product to keep things cold for more than a day or so then the more expensive brands maybe worth it.

Does Ozark Trail have a website?

Ozark Trail Cooler does not have their own website.  They do have a section under Walmart's existing site.  They also do not have their own dedicated support number.  You have to call Walmart support directly.

Types of Ozark Trail Coolers

Ozark Trail Coolers come in a variety of options.  Here are the main line of coolers they offer.

Hard Sided coolers

Ozark Trail hard coolers are known for their durability and reliable cooling performance. These rotomolded coolers are suitable for various outdoor activities, such as camping, fishing trips, tailgating, and more. They are made with rotomolded technology, creating a seamless, one-piece construction that ensures superior strength and insulation capabilities. The heavy duty latches and rubber gaskets on these coolers help create a secure seal, minimizing heat transfer and maximizing ice retention. You can get a hard cooler in various sizes, ranging from small 20-quart coolers to large 73-quart coolers or even larger models, depending on the specific product. Some models may also include convenient features like integrated bottle openers, fish rulers, and non-slip feet. We recommend not sitting these coolers in your truck bed to avoid scratching it up.

Soft Sided Coolers

Ozark Trail offers a range of soft coolers that are lightweight, portable, and convenient for various outdoor activities. Soft coolers are ideal for day trips, picnics, hiking, and other situations where a smaller, more flexible cooler is preferred over a larger, bulkier hard sided cooler.

Ozark Trail soft coolers are constructed with durable materials and insulation to keep your food and drinks cool for an extended period. They often feature a leak-proof lining, which is essential for preventing melted ice or water from seeping out and creating a mess. These soft sided coolers typically come with adjustable shoulder straps or carry handles, making them easy to transport over short distances. A soft sided cooler is a great option for car rides.

Backpack Coolers

Ozark Trail backpack coolers come in various sizes and styles, catering to different needs and preferences. They are typically designed with durable materials, such as rugged polyester or nylon, which are built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Some models may feature additional features like water-resistant coatings, reinforced stitching, and heavy duty zippers to ensure that the cooler can withstand rough conditions and last for years.

One of the standout features of Ozark Trail backpack coolers is their impressive insulation capabilities. These coolers are often equipped with high-density foam insulation, ensuring that the contents inside stay cold for extended periods. Whether you're heading out on a day hike or a weekend camping trip, you can trust that your beverages and perishables will remain chilled, providing much-needed refreshment during your outdoor adventures.

The backpack design of these coolers is another major advantage. Featuring padded shoulder straps and back panels, they offer excellent comfort even during long treks or hikes. Some models may also come with adjustable sternum straps and waist belts, distributing the weight evenly and reducing strain on your back and shoulders. Additionally, many designs include multiple pockets and compartments, providing ample space to store snacks, utensils, and other essentials alongside the main cooler compartment.

For added convenience, some Ozark Trail backpack coolers come with extra features like built in bottle openers, removable liners for easy cleaning, and external attachment points for carrying extra gear or water bottles. These thoughtful additions make the coolers versatile and functional for various outdoor activities.

Overall, Ozark Trail backpack coolers offer a practical and efficient solution for those who want to keep their food and drinks cold while on the move. Whether you're heading to the beach, going camping, or just spending time outdoors, these coolers are a reliable companion to help you beat the heat and enjoy your adventures to the fullest. With their durable construction, comfortable design, and excellent insulation capabilities, Ozark Trail backpack coolers are a solid choice for anyone seeking a portable and efficient cooling solution.

Coolers with wheels

Ozark Trail coolers with wheels are sturdy and durably made. They are typically made from high quality materials, such as thick and robust polyethylene, which ensures that they can withstand rough handling and exposure to the elements. This durability is essential, especially when navigating through uneven surfaces or rocky terrain.

The insulation capabilities are also commendable. Many models come with high density foam insulation, providing exceptional temperatures and keeping your drinks and food cold for extended periods. This feature is particularly useful for outdoor events or longer trips, as you won't have to worry about your perishables spoiling or your drinks getting warm.

The inclusion of large, all-terrain wheels is what sets Ozark Trail apart from conventional coolers. These are made to handle various surfaces, including sand, grass, gravel, and pavement, making it easy to transport your cooler even in challenging outdoor environments. Some models may also have a stainless steel locking plate ensuring that the cooler stays securely in place when stationary.

An Ozark Trail cooler come in various sizes to cater to different needs. Whether you need a compact cooler for a day trip or a larger one for an extended outdoor adventure, you can find a suitable option within their product range. Additionally, many models feature heavy-duty handles, allowing for easy towing or pulling, further enhancing their portability.

As with other Ozark Trail products, these coolers with wheels often come equipped with practical features such as leak resistant drain plugs for effortless cleaning and maintenance. Some models may also have additional compartments and pockets, providing extra storage for utensils, condiments, or other essentials.

In conclusion, Ozark Trail coolers offer a convenient and reliable cooling solution for outdoor enthusiasts and those who enjoy spending time in nature. With their durable construction, excellent insulation these coolers make it easy to transport cold beverages and food to your favorite outdoor destinations. Whether you're heading to a barbecue, camping trip, or a day at the beach, these wheeled coolers ensure that you can keep your refreshments chilled and ready to enjoy throughout your adventures.

Ozark Trail Beverage Coolers

Ozark Trail beverage coolers are specifically crafted to keep your drinks cold during outdoor activities, gatherings, or any situation where you need reliable beverage cooling. As part of the Ozark Trail brand, these coolers are known for their durability, insulation capabilities, and user-friendly features.

The main highlights of Ozark Trail beverage coolers include their construction. They are typically made from tough materials, such as heavy duty polyethylene or stainless steel, ensuring that they can withstand rough handling and outdoor conditions. This robust build quality ensures that the coolers can handle the demands of various outdoor adventures and last for a long time.

The insulation in these beverage coolers ensures your drinks stay cold for extended periods. Many models feature high-density foam insulation, providing excellent temperatures and preventing your beverages from warming up quickly, even on hot days. This feature is particularly important during outdoor events or activities where you want to enjoy chilled drinks without worrying about constant refills or ice replenishment.

Ozark Trail beverage coolers come in different sizes and capacities to suit various needs. Whether you need a small, portable cooler for a day trip or a larger one to cater to a group of people during a gathering, you can find a suitable option within their product range.

These beverage coolers often feature convenient and user-friendly designs. Many models come with secure, leak-resistant lids or easy-access flip-top lids, making it effortless to grab a drink without fully opening the cooler. Some coolers may also have built-in cup holders on the lid or sides, providing a convenient place to set your drink down when not in use.

Additionally, Ozark Trail beverage coolers prioritize portability. Some models come with sturdy handles, making them easy to move even when fully loaded with beverages and ice. Others may have shoulder straps or backpack-style straps, allowing for hands-free transport, which is especially useful for hikers or those on the move.

Cleaning and maintenance are also made simple with attractive features like easy-to-clean interiors and drain plugs that facilitate the removal of melted ice and water.

In summary, Ozark Trail beverage coolers offer a practical and reliable solution for cold cans during outdoor adventures and social gatherings. With their durable construction, excellent insulation, and user-friendly features, these coolers ensure that you can enjoy chilled beverages throughout your outdoor experiences. Whether you're heading to a picnic, camping trip, sports event, or any outdoor activity, an Ozark Trail beverage cooler can be a valuable companion to keep you and your drinks cool and hydrated.

Ozark Trail Combo Cooler Sets

Some packages included multiple coolers of different sizes, suitable for various purposes, bundled together as a set.

Ozark Trail Coolers Ice Retention

Some of the larger Ozark Trail coolers can retain ice for up to 5 to 7 days or even longer under optimal conditions. This exceptional ice retention is achieved through the use of high-density foam insulation and a robust construction that minimizes heat transfer. The thick walls and secure seals on these coolers help to maintain a consistently cold internal environment, ensuring that your food and beverages stay chilled throughout your outdoor excursions.

Even the smaller Ozark Trail coolers, like the portable backpack, offer respectable ice retention ratings. They can often keep ice frozen for 2 to 3 days, making them suitable for day trips, picnics, or short camping adventures.

It's important to note that real-world ice retention can be affected by external factors, such as the ambient temperature, frequency of opening the cooler, and the initial temperature of the contents. Nevertheless, Ozark Trail coolers have earned a reputation for their ability to maintain ice for an extended period, making them a reliable choice for keeping your perishables and drinks cold during your outdoor escapades. Whether you're camping, hiking, fishing, or enjoying a day at the beach, Ozark Trail coolers' excellent ice retention ratings ensure that your provisions stay fresh and cool, enhancing your overall outdoor experience.

Ozark Trail Coolers vs Yeti Coolers

Ozark Trail Coolers and Yeti Coolers are two prominent cooler brands in the market, each with its own set of strengths and target audience. Ozark Trail Coolers are designed with budget-conscious consumers in mind, offering a more affordable option for those seeking reliable cooling performance without breaking the bank. While they may not have the same level of brand recognition as Yeti, Ozark Trail coolers are known to deliver decent insulation and ice retention capabilities for everyday outdoor use and shorter trips.

On the other hand, Yeti Coolers have built a reputation for being the industry standard when it comes to premium coolers. Made to withstand the most rugged conditions, Yeti coolers are built using top-of-the-line materials and rotomolded construction techniques, resulting in an extremely durable and long-lasting product. The engineering and design of Yeti coolers are centered around maximizing ice retention, making them ideal for extended camping trips, fishing excursions, and other adventures where access to fresh ice might be limited. The Yeti Tundra Cooler is considered the industry standard for a rotomolded cooler.

Yeti's design philosophy also extends to providing a wide range of cooler sizes and styles, catering to various needs and preferences. From large hard-sided coolers to compact soft-sided ones and even backpack coolers, Yeti offers a comprehensive selection to suit different activities and group sizes. Furthermore, their designs often feature convenient and innovative add-ons, such as secure latches, sturdy handles, and accessories like dividers and cup holders, enhancing the overall user experience.

While Ozark Trail Coolers offer practicality and affordability, Yeti Coolers stand out for their premium quality, unmatched ice retention capabilities, and a variety of design options to accommodate diverse outdoor adventures. When making a choice between the two cooler brands, consumers should consider their specific requirements, budget constraints, and how they intend to use the cooler to find the best fit for their needs.

Ozark Trailer Coolers

Ozark Trail Cooler 24-Can Camping and Outdoor 

This Ozark  trail cooler is ideal for traveling outdoors, especially while on the go. It is spacious enough to accommodate 24 cans. A separate bottle opener attachment is provided. An EVA compression molded base lends strength to the cooler. Additionally, its Neoprene-padded removable shoulder strap adds ease of use.

At a $46, this soft sided option hits the sweet spot. Its array of features which are otherwise available only on pricier high-end brands like Yeti.

Ozark Trail 52-Quart High Performance Cooler

Heavy in weight, heavier on performance is the tagline for this ice chest. Ice cubes can easily last in it for DAYS without melting. Capacity-wise, we are looking at space for as many as 80 to possibly 100 cans! The dual cap drain plug is conveniently sized such that a garden hose can easily fit on to it.

An additional, well-appreciated feature on this ice box is the inclusion of a wire basket inside. Many higher end brands do not offer this (you have to buy it separately). The lid closes tightly quite comfortably, ensuring apt coolness for a long duration.

Overall, as compared to a Yeti cooler of the same size, this offers brilliant value. It comes with similar features at about a third the price!

Ozark Trail Backpack Cooler

This is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who are frequently on the move. It can hold up to 15 lbs. of ice, and altogether, as many as 20 cans can snugly fit into it. The front pocket accessory is a welcome addition to store small items of your choice. There is also a compression strap you can use to lug things with you.

Further, the dual bottle openers on the backpack are a cool feature as are two separate daisy-chain attachments which you can use to take items with you while on the move.

At under $50 – with FREE shipping, the ozark trail backpack cooler definitely offers amazing value. Brands like Yeti cannot compete in this price range.

Ozark Trail 26-Quart High-Performance Cooler

The 26 Quart option is built solidly and available in a wide range of colors: blue, white, and gray. It's is perfect for long outings where you need your ice to remain chilled for long. Moreover, at 26-quart, this is spacious enough to accommodate enough cans or other items you wish to carry.

On the flip side, you are likely to find it a tad heavy. Once you put stuff inside, it will be that much harder to lug it around. Also, the absence of a drain hole implies you have to turn it over to remove melted water/anything else, which can be quite cumbersome.

Ozark Trail 73-Quart High-Performance Cooler

Ruggedly built, this is the ultimate powerhouse trail cooler that you need for longish trips with ample items in tow to keep cool. Storage space wise, we are talking at least 30+ beer cans. As far as chilling capacity goes, it can retain ice cubes for even up to a week without letting it melt.

This version comes with convenient drain plug options. This lets you drain melted ice away quite comfortably. Otherwise, given the weight of the cooler (at 35 lbs. it is rather heavy even when empty); flipping it over for draining would be quite a task.

Overall though, this is a great feature-rich cooler that comes at a particularly attractive price. Especially when we compare with similar products from Yeti which are priced much higher. The primary aspect to consider is that even while paying much less, you are not compromising on any front.

Ozark Trail 30 Can Leak-Tight Cooler

This cooler is available in an attractive gray color. There’s thick EPE foam insulation. This foam layer ensures that things remain cool inside it for long. Moreover, the body of the cooler is entirely heat welded. Ensuring that contents remain insulated is the reason for the welding.

The bottle opener in front and the front pocket are nice touches. In terms of capacity, we are looking at a minimum of 30 cans that can fit with 22 lbs. of ice carrying capacity.

The cooler is easy to carry around, thanks to both hand and neoprene shoulder straps. Additionally, the cooler comes with a hi-quality zipper lubricant included in the pack. This can be used to ensure its heavy-duty zipper functions seamlessly.

On the whole, this is clearly a value-for-money cooler that has few comparable alternatives in the market, especially at this price point.

Ozark Trail 6 Can Cooler with Expandable Top

An ideal lunchbox, this one comes with a convenient removable hardliner. The 3 inch top is expandable which makes it easy for additional dry items to be stored. It comes in an attractive blue color base with a black color top along with two-tone gray. An adjustable strap makes the trail coolerparticularly convenient to carry.

On the whole, this is again a quality product with an attractive eye-catching design and a unique persona of its own. Moreover, it is clearly priced quite affordably which does not warrant too much thought, prior to its purchase.

In this article, we have reviewed a series of different Ozark Trail coolers. The central point that stands out in case of all of them is their immense value for money. When we compare with high-end brands like Yeti, we do not find a huge difference in quality. Yet we do find quite a substantial difference in price.

Therefore, taking all aspects into consideration, we definitely recommend the Ozark Trail range of products, across models as showcased in this review article.

Ozark Trail Coolers Warranty

According to Walmart.com, Ozark trail coolers come with a limited 5 year warranty.  Typically a limited warranty means normal wear and tear will not be covered.  You'll have to prove the damage is outside of that to get it fixed.

Ozark Trail Coolers Alternatives

Pelican Coolers

Pelican is a popular brand known for manufacturing high-quality, rugged, and durable coolers. They are designed to keep ice and contents cold for an extended period, making them a preferred choice for outdoor enthusiasts, campers, fishermen, hunters, and anyone who needs reliable cooling during their adventures.

Here are some key features and aspects:

1. Rotomolded Construction: These are made using a rotomolded construction process, which involves molding the cooler in one seamless piece. This technique results in a durable and rugged outer shell that can withstand rough handling and outdoor conditions.
2. Insulation and Ice Retention: They are made with thick walls and high-quality insulation to provide excellent ice retention. Depending on the model and usage, they can keep ice for several days, making them suitable for extended trips and outdoor activities.
3. Latching Systems: Typically these feature heavy-duty rubber latches that create a secure seal to keep the cold air inside and prevent heat from entering. The latches also make it easy to open and close the cooler securely.
4. Drainage System: All of these come equipped with a built-in drain plug, which makes it convenient to empty melted ice or water from the cooler without having to tilt it.
5. Bear-Resistant Certification: Some larger models have received bear-resistant certification from the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee (IGBC), indicating their ability to withstand bear encounters when properly locked.
6. Lifetime Warranty: Many Pelican products come with a lifetime warranty, providing customers with peace of mind regarding the quality and longevity of their purchase.

While Pelican Coolers are praised for their performance and durability, they tend to be on the higher end of the price spectrum. However, many outdoor enthusiasts find the investment worthwhile due to the cooler's ruggedness and long-lasting ice retention capabilities.

In conclusion, Ozark Trail Coolers are a  budget friendly choice for people looking for reliable cooling performance without the premium price tag. They offer both soft coolers and hard coolers at a cheap price.  While they may not offer the same level of brand recognition or ruggedness as some other high-end cooler brands, they still provide decent insulation and ice retention capabilities for everyday outdoor use and shorter trips. Ozark Trail Coolers are designed with affordability in mind, making them accessible to a wider range of consumers who want a functional cooler without breaking the bank. IF you are focused on a hard cooler then you will definitely save some money.

For those on a tight budget or occasional campers seeking a simple and reliable cooler, Ozark Trail Coolers can be a suitable option. However, if durability, long-lasting ice retention, and premium features are of utmost importance for extended outdoor adventures, higher-end brands like Yeti might be a more appropriate choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to individual preferences, needs, and budget constraints. Always consider how you plan to use the cooler and what features are essential for your specific outdoor activities to make the best-informed decision.