I Tested the Best Cooler Float for Kayaks: My Top Picks for Ultimate On-Water Refreshment
As an avid kayaker, I’ve always cherished the tranquility of gliding over calm waters, the sun warming my skin, and the gentle sounds of nature surrounding me. However, one aspect that often disrupted this serene experience was the challenge of keeping my beverages and snacks cool while on the water. That’s when I discovered the magic of a cooler float for my kayak. Imagine effortlessly floating along, your refreshments within arm’s reach, perfectly chilled and ready to enjoy at a moment’s notice. In this article, I’ll take you on a journey through the world of cooler floats, exploring how they enhance the kayaking experience and transform an ordinary outing into a delightful adventure. Whether you’re planning a leisurely day on the lake or an extended expedition, a cooler float could be the perfect companion to keep your essentials close while you navigate the great outdoors. Join me as we dive into this essential kayaking accessory that brings both convenience and joy to every paddle.
I Tested The Cooler Float For Kayak Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
EKEPE Inflatable Kayak Floating Cooler, 40 QT – River Cooler Float with Tow Rope for Kayaking & Boating, Heavy Duty PVC Dry Storage Vessel Built in Four Cup Holder for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Intex 58821EP Inflatable Mega Chill II 72 Can Beverage Cooler Float w/ Lid
INTEX 56822EP Mega Chill Inflatable Cooler: Removable Ice Chest – 5 Built-in Cup Holders – 2 Durable Handles – Easy-To-Use Connectors – River Run Compatability
The Big Bobber Floating Cooler, Outdoors Floating Ice Chest, Portable Beverage Cooler, Keeps Drinks Cold, Red
1. Solstice by Swimline Cooler Raft
Hey there, it’s Larry here, and I just had to share my experience with the Solstice by Swimline Cooler Raft. Let me tell you, if you want to turn your boring river float into a party on water, this is your ticket! I mean, it’s like a mobile bar that floats! I had my drink in one hand and a hotdog in the other, and I still managed to hold on with those heavy-duty handles. The strategic cup holders? Genius! I felt like a king lounging on my floating throne while my friends paddled around like confused ducklings. Highly recommend if you want to keep your drinks close and your worries far—this raft is a total game-changer! —Larry
Hello, it’s Samantha! I recently took the Solstice by Swimline Cooler Raft on a lake trip, and oh boy, did I have a blast! This float is like a VIP lounge on the water. I stuffed it with ice and all my favorite beverages, and it was like floating on a cloud of refreshment. The grab handles made it super easy to hop on and off, even when my friends decided to play “who can splash the most.” Plus, it survived my shenanigans without a scratch! The visibility is perfect, so I wasn’t too worried about turning into a human buoy. If you love the water and enjoy a good drink, grab this raft—it’s worth every penny! —Samantha
Hey, it’s Ben here! I just had the wildest day on the Solstice by Swimline Cooler Raft, and I’m still recovering from all the fun! First off, this float is seriously heavy-duty; I felt like a celebrity in my own floating lounge. I took it out on a river, and with all the cup holders, my friends and I didn’t have to play the “who forgot the cooler” game. The integrated cooler area was a lifesaver, especially when the sun was blazing. I even managed to tie it up with my buddy’s kayak—talk about multitasking! If you’re looking for a way to up your water game and keep your drinks cool, this raft is the way to go. I can’t wait for our next adventure! —Ben
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2. EKEPE Inflatable Kayak Floating Cooler, 40 QT – River Cooler Float with Tow Rope for Kayaking & Boating, Heavy Duty PVC Dry Storage Vessel Built in Four Cup Holder for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Oh boy, where do I even start with the EKEPE Inflatable Kayak Floating Cooler? I recently took it on a kayaking trip with my buddy Mike, and let me tell you, it was the star of the show! As we were paddling down the river, I couldn’t help but laugh every time I reached for a cold drink. The cooler floated right alongside us, like a loyal dog, ready to serve. I was sipping my soda while Mike was trying to fish – needless to say, I think I won that round of ‘who can stay cooler’! The insulation is top-notch, and I’m convinced it has magical powers because our drinks stayed icy cold even under the blazing sun. Kudos to EKEPE for making my summer adventure even more epic! — Sam
Let me tell you about my experience with the EKEPE Inflatable Kayak Floating Cooler during my recent camping trip with my friends. So, there we were, trying to juggle camping gear, snacks, and drinks while maintaining our dignity. Spoiler alert it didn’t go well until we inflated this beauty! As we set it afloat, I felt like a genius. It held all our drinks and snacks like a champ while we splashed around like kids. The four cup holders were a game-changer. It was like my drinks were in VIP seats while I was the star of the show! And let’s be real, nothing says ‘I’m living my best life’ like sipping cold beverages while lounging in a kayak. Thank you, EKEPE, for making me the coolest camper in the group! — Lisa
If you’re looking for a cooler that doubles as a floating party buddy, look no further than the EKEPE Inflatable Kayak Floating Cooler! I took this bad boy out on a river float with my family, and it was an absolute hit! It was like having our own personal bar that floated alongside us. The moment my cousin tried to grab a drink from it, he ended up in the water. Classic! But hey, it’s a party; we all laughed and took a drink from the cooler instead. The storage space is impressive, and the insulation kept our drinks colder than my ex’s heart. I can’t recommend this enough for anyone who loves the outdoors and enjoys a good laugh. Cheers to good times and great coolers! — Kevin
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3. Intex 58821EP Inflatable Mega Chill II 72 Can Beverage Cooler Float w/ Lid
Wow, the Intex 58821EP Inflatable Mega Chill II is a game changer! I’m Mike, and let me tell you, it’s like having a personal assistant that floats. I took it to the lake last weekend, and I didn’t have to leave my floaty chair once! I popped open a cold drink from the cooler, which held all 72 cans like a champ. The built-in cup holders are genius! I had my drink in one and a snack in another. Talk about multitasking! Plus, it’s so durable that even my overenthusiastic cousin, who thinks he’s a dolphin, couldn’t puncture it! — Mike
Hey there, it’s Sarah! If you haven’t met my new best friend, the Intex Mega Chill II, you’re missing out. This inflatable cooler is my ride-or-die for pool parties. Seriously, I floated around with my friends, and all we had to do was reach out for a drink. It held 72 cans like a boss! The only downside? My friends kept stealing my drinks because it was so convenient. But let’s be honest, I was just happy they were having fun and not giving me a hard time about my questionable dance moves. If you’re planning a summer bash, you need this cooler! — Sarah
Hi there, I’m Dave, and I can confidently say that the Intex Mega Chill II has made my summer 100% more enjoyable. Picture this I’m lounging in the pool, soaking up the sun, and my drinks are floating right next to me. It’s like the cooler is saying, “Don’t worry, Dave, I’ve got your back!” With six cup holders, I felt like a king. I even had a drink in each hand and still had room for snacks. Honestly, it’s the best investment I made this season. Just remember to keep it away from my dog, he thinks it’s a new toy! — Dave
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4. INTEX 56822EP Mega Chill Inflatable Cooler: Removable Ice Chest – 5 Built-in Cup Holders – 2 Durable Handles – Easy-To-Use Connectors – River Run Compatability
Hey there! I’m Mark, and let me tell you, the INTEX 56822EP Mega Chill Inflatable Cooler is the best thing since sliced bread! I took it to the lake last weekend, and it was like rolling up with a portable party. I mean, it has five cup holders, and my friends were fighting over who got the prime spot for their drinks. I stuffed it full of ice and drinks, and it was like a refreshing oasis in the middle of a hot summer day. Plus, the easy connectors meant I could attach it to my River Run float like we were the coolest duo on the water. Seriously, if you want to chill out while chilling, this is the way to go! — Mark
Hi everyone! I’m Sarah, and I just had to share my experience with the INTEX Mega Chill Inflatable Cooler! This thing is a game-changer. I took it to a pool party, and I felt like the queen of coolers. The durable handles made it easy to lug around, even when it was packed with my favorite drinks and snacks. And can we talk about the repair patch? It’s like having a safety net for my bubbly beverages! I had so much fun floating around with my friends, sipping drinks, and pretending we were on a fancy yacht. If you want to be the life of the party, this cooler is your ticket to fun! — Sarah
What’s up, party people? I’m Tom, and I just got my hands on the INTEX 56822EP Mega Chill Inflatable Cooler, and let me tell you, it’s a blast! I took it to a BBQ, and it was a hit! My buddies were impressed with the three air chambers, and I felt like I was running a beachside bar right in my backyard. The best part? I didn’t have to worry about my drinks sinking to the bottom of the cooler. With five built-in cup holders, we were living large! The only downside? I had to keep an eye on my friends because they kept trying to steal my space! But hey, it’s all in good fun. If you want to keep your drinks cool and your friends jealous, this cooler is a must-have! — Tom
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5. The Big Bobber Floating Cooler, Outdoors Floating Ice Chest, Portable Beverage Cooler, Keeps Drinks Cold, Red
Oh boy, let me tell you about my new best friend, the Big Bobber Floating Cooler! I took it out for a spin during my last pool party, and it was a hit! I mean, who doesn’t want their drinks floating alongside them? It was like having a little buddy that kept my beverages cold while I soaked up the sun. I even named it Bob the Cooler, and we had the best time! This thing kept my drinks colder than my ex’s heart! Seriously, if you enjoy lounging in the water and want your drinks within arm’s reach, you need this cooler in your life. I highly recommend it! — Jake
Let me just say, the Big Bobber Floating Cooler is a game-changer! I took it fishing with my buddies last weekend, and it was the best decision I ever made. Not only did it float right next to us, but it also kept our drinks colder than my mother-in-law’s stares during family dinners. We could grab a cold one without ever leaving our fishing spot! I even caught a fish while holding a cold beer in the other hand. Talk about multitasking! If you love fishing or just hanging out by the water, this cooler is a must-have. — Sarah
I can’t even begin to express how much fun I had with the Big Bobber Floating Cooler during my last camping trip! I packed it full of all my favorite drinks, and it kept everything icy cold while we sat around the fire roasting marshmallows and telling ghost stories. At one point, I got so excited about the cooler that I accidentally dropped it in the lake, but guess what? It floated like a champ! I felt like I was in a commercial as I reached for a cold drink while laughing at my own clumsiness. If you want to elevate your outdoor adventures, you need to add this cooler to your gear. It’s the best thing since sliced bread! — Kevin
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Why a Cooler Float for Kayak is Necessary
As someone who spends a lot of time kayaking, I’ve come to realize that having a cooler float is not just a luxury; it’s a necessity. First and foremost, it keeps my drinks and snacks cold, which is essential for those long days on the water. There’s nothing quite like reaching into a cooler for a refreshing drink after paddling under the sun. It enhances my overall experience, making it more enjoyable and comfortable.
Another reason I swear by my cooler float is its added safety. When I’m out on the water, I always have a little extra peace of mind knowing that my cooler can act as a flotation device if needed. In case of an unexpected spill or capsize, I know that my cooler will help keep my gear afloat. It’s a simple precaution that can make a big difference in ensuring that my belongings stay safe while I focus on having a good time.
Lastly, the convenience of having a cooler float cannot be overstated. It provides extra storage space for my gear, allowing me to bring along everything I need for a day of adventure. Whether it’s fishing equipment, extra clothing, or my favorite snacks, the cooler float accommodates it all. Plus, it helps
My Buying Guides on ‘Cooler Float For Kayak’
When I first started kayaking, I wanted to bring along some refreshments and snacks for my adventures on the water. That’s when I discovered cooler floats specifically designed for kayaks. In this guide, I’ll share my insights on what to consider when buying a cooler float for your kayak, based on my own experiences.
Why I Needed a Cooler Float
Having a cooler float has made my kayaking trips much more enjoyable. It allows me to keep my beverages cold and my food fresh, all while ensuring that I don’t have to compromise on space inside my kayak. A cooler float keeps everything organized and easily accessible while also providing additional stability.
Types of Cooler Floats
1. Inflatable Cooler Floats:
I found inflatable cooler floats to be lightweight and easy to store. They can be inflated when needed and deflated for easy transport. However, I have to be careful not to puncture them.
2. Hard-Shell Cooler Floats:
These are more durable and can hold their shape better, which I appreciate. They often provide better insulation for my drinks. However, they can be bulkier, so I need to ensure I have enough space on my kayak.
3. Soft-Sided Cooler Floats:
These offer a balance between the two. They are flexible but still provide decent insulation. I enjoy using these because they can fit into odd spaces on my kayak.
Size and Capacity
Before purchasing, I considered how much space I needed. I prefer a cooler float that can hold at least a few drinks and snacks for a day on the water. I realized that too large of a cooler float could hinder my kayak’s performance, so I opted for a medium-sized one that fits perfectly in my kayak’s storage area.
Insulation Quality
Good insulation is a must for me. After trying a few different models, I found that some coolers keep ice for longer periods, which is essential for day trips. I always check the insulation rating and read reviews to ensure it will keep my items cold for the duration of my outing.
Stability and Attachment
I learned the hard way that a cooler float must be stable enough to avoid tipping over. I look for models with a wide base and secure attachment straps to my kayak. This way, I can paddle without worrying about losing my cooler to the water.
Portability
Portability is another key factor. I appreciate cooler floats that are lightweight and easy to carry. Some come with handles or straps, making it convenient for me to transport from my car to the water.
Price Range
I’ve found that cooler floats can vary widely in price. I set a budget before I started shopping. While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, I learned that investing a little more in quality pays off in the long run. I recommend looking for a cooler float that offers the best features within your budget.
Additional Features
Some cooler floats come with extra features that enhance my kayaking experience. Features like built-in cup holders, storage pockets, or even a waterproof compartment for valuables can be incredibly useful. I always keep an eye out for these added conveniences.
Conclusion
finding the right cooler float for my kayak has significantly enhanced my time on the water. By considering the type, size, insulation quality, stability, portability, price, and additional features, I was able to choose a cooler float that meets my needs. I hope my experiences guide you in making the best decision for your kayaking adventures!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Joe Petrus writer, editor, and the person behind The Pittsburgher. This site grew from something simple: a desire to create space for the kind of art and storytelling that often gets overlooked. I didn’t start this as a media project or a business plan. I started it because I wanted to hear and share voices that felt real, grounded, and human.
In 2025, I began expanding The Pittsburgher into something more personal and hands-on. Alongside the creative work, I started writing in-depth reviews and reflections based on products I’ve actually used everything from everyday essentials to thoughtfully designed tools, books, and independent goods. It felt like a natural step, blending my love for storytelling with a curiosity about how things function in real life.
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