Pelican has constantly performed well across all ice test we have run. In fact, the New Pelican IM Elite lasted a Full 10 Days in one test. However, one question still remains by many; where can I pick up my Pelican? Rarely are Pelicans sold in big box retailers or sporting goods stores like you might see with Yeti or Igloo. Below you will find some of the most popular sizes and colors and links where you can buy a Pelican Cooler.
Jump To⇒ Our Pelican Test Results
Jump To⇒ Available Pelican Sizes
Pelican Cooler Variety
ProGear | ELITE IM | Soft Sided |
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20-240 Quart | 20-240 Quart | 12, 24, 48 Cans |
Available With Wheels: √ | Available With Wheels: √ | Available With Wheels: X |
Holds Ice: 5+ Days | Holds Ice: Up To 10 Days | Holds Ice: 2 Days |
Are Pelican Coolers Available In Stores?
Pelican coolers are available in some of the most popular department stores such as, Walmart, Costco, or Sam’s Club. They are also available in some hardware stores like The Home Depot. This is often location dependent and very hit or miss across retailers. Therefore, most find buying online easier and often times much more affordable. Most importantly though, many more options are available online such as color choices, additional sizes, added wheels, and many more features/accessories.
Why Buy A Pelican Cooler Online?
When you are searching for a high end cooler that can hold ice over an extended period of time, online purchase options may add certain bonuses that you will not get at your local store. For instance, many times of the year you may find deals that are not available in store. Websites designed to provide quality products at affordable prices such as Amazon or eBay are usually the first and most regular to offer sales.
Another bonus with buying online is that you gain the option to read and research Pelican ice chest reviews like ours. In fact we have provided the results to several of our tests below. Like our test results, online reviews can give you specifics about how long it may hold ice, dimensions, weight etc. In some cases you may be able to find out how Pelican coolers match up against other high end coolers, such as Yeti brand coolers.
READ: Our Pelican Vs Yeti Review⇒
(Brief Overview Below)
Are Pelican Coolers As Good As Yeti?

Yeti Tundra 45 Vs Pelican ProGear Elite 45Q After Five Days
One of the biggest differences between Yeti and Pelican are the latches. Yeti utilizes rubber T-latches and Pelican uses proprietary “Press N Push” latches. Both coolers offer excellent warranties, with the advantage to Pelican, as it is a Lifetime Warranty.
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Most Popular | Lower Cost |
Manufactured: USA & Philippines | Manufactured: USA |
Most Expensive Brand | Cheaper than Yeti |
Cost: $$$$ | Cost: $$$ |
Roto-Molded, One Piece | Roto-Molded Shell/Stainless Hardware |
Certified Bear Proof | Certified Bear Proof |
Tundra Models 20-125 | ProGear Sizes 20-250Q |
Warranty: Five Year | Warranty: Lifetime |
Ice Retention: 5-7 Day | Ice Retention: Up To 10 Day |
Note: Model numbers are not reflective of size with Yeti Coolers | Note: Pelican cooler models and sizes are same |
Read Full Review | Read Full Review |
In our Five Day Ice Challenge between Yeti and Pelican, the Pelican ProGear Elite 45 held ice significantly longer than the Yeti Tundra 45. It’s worth noting, though, the Pelican cooler does weigh more than the Yeti Tundra. In the Five Day Ice Challenge we reviewed the Pelican with wheels which made for easy transportation. Since this test, we have conducted several new challenges with different sizes and even tested the New Pelican Elite IM. The IM is up to 30% lighter than pervious models. We can say it definitely felt much most lightweight. The 50Qt IM Series was noticeably lighter than the 45Qt with wheels. Most importantly, ice retention times were NOT sacrificed. You’ll see in the video below the new model lasting a Full 10 Days.
Pelican Cooler Holds Ice For 10 Days
More Videos⇒
Are Pelican Elite Coolers Worth It?
Yes, Pelican Coolers are definitely worth it. They are some of the most popular coolers we have reviewed. The Lifetime Warranty and the price point of these coolers make them incredibly attractive to just about anyone. For those into hunting, scuba diving or even videography, you’ve likely seen a Pelican case for gear in the past. The build quality of Pelican coolers is just as robust as Pelican cases.
One drawback for us, is the bulkiness of Pelican. They are bulkier than many other roto molded coolers. However, that is not to say the bulkiness is not appreciated by some, and even us. The build quality of these coolers offers superior durability and ice retention times.
Most Popular Pelican Cooler Sizes For Sale
Pelican 35 Quart
The Pelican 35 is the most popular sized Pelican. This is perfect for boating, camping, and tailgating etc. As with all Pelican coolers, this is certified bear proof. In fact, this is the only cooler which actually prevented a bear from gaining access to the inside of the cooler in a test conducted by Popular Mechanics. In our testing, this cooler can handle ice for a Full 5+ Days with ease. This is also going to be one of the most portable Pelican coolers available. If you’re anything like us, we like our food and drinks, which is limited only by the size and certainly not ice retention. Therefore, if you plan on regular excursion of a few days or more, you might want to consider a larger size.
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Pelican 45 Quart
Although we see the 35 quart selling more than the 45, this is our cooler of choice. The 45qt is the most practical size, and the cooler you’ll see in our video challenges. This cooler can be purchased with or without wheels. Although the wheels look a little goofy, in our opinion, they are definitely a back saver when the cooler is full. As we’ve mentioned previously, Pelican coolers are bulkier than others, and the wheels only adds to the bulkiness. The 45 is perfect for a couple days of camping or use as an every day cooler. This fits perfectly in the back of the truck. Because it is more durable, we find it less susceptible to warping due to prolonged exposure to harsh sun, especially for us in FL. See Available Color Schemes⇒_____________________________
New Pelican IM Elite Series
As shown in the video above, the new model Pelican offers incredible ice retention ability. Lasting a full 10 days and weighing in 30% lighter than previous models, the new Pelican Model is a solid choice. This cooler is offered in a variety of sizes from 20Q to 70Q. As with previous models, this is also available with or without wheels. In addition to shedding some weight with the new model, the Elite IM offers a more aggressive look.