It should come as no surprise that Yeti Tundra coolers are the best-selling and most in demand high end coolers. Unlike cheaper counterparts, this ice cooler is resistant to all sorts of rough environments, ultraviolet rays and heat. Equipped with one-of-a-kind unbeatable features to keep the ice intact not just for hours but for number of days. In fact, we have confirmed Yeti to last Five Full Days with ease (proof below). One of the most common concerns with a Yeti is the price and how well does it really stack up against other brands? Check out our cooler comparison articles below for a head to head comparison. We also have several ice retention test [videos] we have personally conducted embedded in the post below.
Jump To=> Tundra Sizes & Specs
Yeti Vs Competitor Articles:
Yeti Tundra Performance-Our Five Day Ice Challenge
Yeti Tundra 45 After Our Five Day Ice Challenge
So how does the Yeti Tundra 45 stack up against other high end roto molded cooler manufacturers? Better than we originally had thought actually. In our Five Day Ice Challenge the Yeti Tundra 45 held ice for the full five days with moderate use. We opened every cooler three times a day, and rotated the six beverages inside from top to bottom and vice versa. Although the Yeti didn’t hold ice as long as the Engel, Pelican, or Canyon, it did hold ice longer than Grizzly. As you’ll see from the video below, the Yeti Tundra is a solid made cooler, holds ice well; our only reservation is the price. Take for example a Canyon 35Q cooler at least $100 less than a Yeti Tundra 45 (which is actually only 37 quarts) held ice better than the Yeti. If you’re someone who is looking for quality and a price that doesn’t break the bank, you may consider the Canyon or even an Engel Deep Blue. However, we do know there are those that have to have a Yeti Cooler. It is understandable as Yeti has set the bar among the high end cooler community. If you are one of those interested in the Yeti name, you can rest assured that you are getting a solid made cooler that can maintain ice for a full five days, and…..it’s a YETI!
Our Yeti Tundra 45 Review W/ Five Day Ice Challenge Results
UPDATED: Challenge Results
Since the review above, we have conducted a myriad of additional test, including smaller Yeti Roadie, Tumblers, as well as different amounts of ice. As a result of all of these test, we have confirmed Yeti to last 5+ days in almost all test. External temperature play a huge role in ice retention times. In the heat of summer, the Tundra 45 lasted 6 full days. This test was conducted in central Florida in the middle of summer. Ambient temperatures were hitting 90°+ ever day, and lid temps reaching over 100°. This is truly impressive for any cooler to go this long. If you want to see how over coolers stacked up, see the results here.
What about cooler color?
We receive a lot of emails and comments on our YouTube Channel asking how much cooler color plays a role in ice retention times. The idea being, a white cooler will hold ice better than a darker colored cooler. Although our gut initially told us the same, this is simply not the results we found. We bring this up, as we have tested Tan, White & Blue Yeti Tundra coolers. The color had negligible effect on the ice retention times.
Yeti Tundra Features and Specifications
Yeti Tundra comes in different models: 20, 45, 50, 65, 75, 105, 110, 125, 250. But if you’re looking for the most perfect fit, the Tundra Model 35 capacity cooler is just the perfect size to pick at 21 inches by 15.5 inches by 15.5 inches (LxWxH) dimensions. We also prefer the Tundra 45 as our, most practical cooler size. This is the same cooler you’ll see shown in the videos above.
Yeti Tundra Coolers Capacity and Dimensions
| Cooler | Size | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
Yeti 35:  | 20 pounds;Exterior dimensions – Height: 15 1/2 Top: 21 (L) x 16 (W) Bottom: 20 (L) x 13.3/8 (W); Interior Dimensions – Height: 10 Top 15 (L) x 10 ½ (W) Bottom 14 (L) x 9 ½ (W) | $$ |
Yeti 45: | 23 pounds; Exterior dimensions – Height: 15 ½ Top: 25 ½ (L) x 16 (W) Bottom: 24 ½ (L) x 13.3/8 (W); Interior Dimensions – Height: 9 7/8 Top 19 ½ (L) x 10 ½ (W) Bottom 18 3/8 (L) x 9 ½ (W) | $$ |
Yeti 50:  | 26 pounds; Exterior dimensions – Height: 18 1/8 Top: 24(L) x 17.38 (W) Bottom: 223/4 (L) x 14.3/4 (W); Interior Dimensions – Height: 12 1/8 Top 18 (L) x 12 (W) Bottom 165/8(L) x 9 ½ (W) | $$$ |
Yeti 65:  | 29 pounds; Exterior dimensions – Height: 16 Top: 30 1/2(L) x 17 1/2(W) Bottom: 29 1/2 (L) x 14 7/8 (W); Interior Dimensions – Height: 10 1/8 Top 24 1/2(L) x 12 (W) Bottom 23 3/8(L) x 103/4 (W) | $$$ |
Yeti 75:  | 34 pounds; Exterior dimensions – Height: 18 Top: 33 1/4(L) x 18 (W) Bottom: 32 (L) x 15 1/8 (W); Interior Dimensions – Height: 12 Top 27 1/4(L) x 12 1/2(W) Bottom 26(L) x 11 1/8(W) | $$$$ |
Yeti 105: | 36 pounds; Exterior dimensions – Height: 120 Top: 30 1/2(L) x 19 1/2(W) Bottom: 29 (L) x 16 ½ (W); Interior Dimensions – Height: 14 ¼ Top 24 ½ (L) x 14 (W) Bottom 23 (L) x 12 ½ (W) | $$$$ |
Yeti 110: | 39 pounds; Exterior dimensions – Height: 120 Top: 37(L) x 18 (W) Bottom: 35 5/8 (L) x 15 (W); Interior Dimensions – Height: 13 ¾ Top 31 (L) x 12 1/2(W) Bottom 29 ½ (L) x 11 (W) | $$$$ |
Yeti 125: | 48 pounds; Exterior dimensions – Height: 120 Top: 40 (L) x 19 ½ (W) Bottom: 38 5/8 (L) x 16 ½ (W); Interior Dimensions – Height: 14 ¼ Top 34 (L) x 14 (W) Bottom 32 3/8 (L) x 12 ½ (W) | $$$$$ |
The Tundra by Yeti coolers is molded to suit with dry ice so you will be assured of long-term ice retention. All hardware is made of heavy duty materials to resist skid, leaks and ensure safety of items inside the ice chest. The self-stopping hinges are molded and securely fastened so you won’t need to get a replacement part for life with proper care and use.
If you plan to bring a cooler on your next fishing trip, Tundra 35 makes the best option as it comes with built-in slots and tie-down capabilities so you can securely lock the cooler on your wavy trip beyond the seas.
It is capable of handling 28 pounds of ice equivalent to 20 cans of beer or soda. Just like other Yeti cooler models, Tundra 35 cooler also offer 5 year warranty against defective materials beyond physical limits or abusive handling. Check out Yeti’s official website for more information about the product guarantee and warranty policy coverage. If that didn’t convince you of the quality a Yeti provides, they are Certified Bear Proof, meaning it is capable of maintaining its’ contents/integrity through a battle with a grizzly bear.
Accessories You Can Buy with Yeti Tundra
Don’t miss the Yeti Tie-Down Kit when you purchase the Tundra 35 cooler, it helps secure the cooler to the vehicle especially while travelling. The Yeti Tie-Down kit is made of durable stainless steel hardware to resist corrosion brought about by daily wear and tear. More On Yeti Tie Down⇒
While Tundra Yet 35 cooler has the anti-skid pad underneath the cooler, the SeaDek Traction Pad 35 adds to the slip resistance. Also, if you wish to create an instant sturdy seat out of Tundra Yeti 35 cooler, you have to purchase the Cooler Cushion. It’s made of stainless steel snap closure designed to transform the cooler to a robust cushioned seat. It fits perfectly, so easy to install and remove too.
Most Important: Because these coolers are in such high demand, so too are they among thieves. For those that plan on leaving their cooler in the bed their truck or strapped on to the back of a Jeep, you’ll likely want to lock this cooler down. This will prevent any unwanted hands walking off with your cooler. See our full article on how to properly lock a cooler for more information on locking systems available.
Yeti Product Review Pros/Cons:
Pros
Tundra 35 or 45 ice cooler is your perfect summer and tripping pal or simply used as an outdoor beverage cooler. It’s a great gift too. Yeti makes a robust product which serves more than just a cooler. It makes a good foot stool and improvised table, seat, or casting platform. An item of true quality, you will surely enjoy saving countless bags of ice through the summer with its ability to maintain ice for days. The veteran travelers know it; they love to pack food and other goodies in Yeti Tundra anytime anywhere for days at a time.
Yeti Tundra 45 Five Day Ice Challenge Drained
Incredible Ice Retention Feature-
If you’re planning to stay on the roads for days, you should consider adding a Tundra cooler to your trunk or truck bed. It holds as much as 16 to 28 pounds of ice depending on the cube size and it offers as much as 5-7 days ice retention. Yes, the ice remains frozen this long and you can even extend this life by adding a couple ice packs on top. We have a entirely separate post on how to choose the best ice pack for your cooler to prolong the life of your ice.
Easy to Drain-
No more tilting, this cooler comes with an easy drain plug so you can clear the fluids out without hassle.
Fresh Goods-
Not only does it preserve food items because of its long ice retention rate but no plastic odor is present as with many other coolers.
Cons
The biggest complaint with all Yeti coolers is the price. Let’s face it, they aren’t cheap. But hey, they are a Yeti after all, the leader of the pack when it comes to coolers, and after our test, we can say they are worth the hype.
Most Popular Yeti Size
Why Should You Buy A Yeti Tundra cooler?
If you’re one who likes to buy the best of the best, then Yeti it is. Not only is this a solid cooler, its the most desirable cooler. It’s not just an advertisement. The popularity among consumers can speak of Yeti Tundra’s performance and quality. Don’t risk buying cheap brands, go for something like Tundra 45 as this item is renowned to serve adventurers above the satisfactory rating.
Looking for a smaller Yeti? Read our Yeti Roadie Review Here⇒
