YETI Tundra 45 Cooler
Quick Verdict
Car/family camping, boating, tailgating and multi-day hot-weather trips where maximum ice retention and ruggedness matter
Ultralight/backpack trips, solo long carries, or infrequent casual use where weight and cost are critical
Key Specifications
About This Gear
The YETI Tundra 45 Cooler is a top-tier option for keeping your food and drinks cold during family car camping trips. Its outstanding insulation and rugged construction ensure long-lasting ice retention even in hot conditions. However, it is a heavy and bulky cooler, which may require careful planning when packing your vehicle.
Pros & Cons
Synthesized from expert reviews and user feedback
What People Love
3 positive findingsOutstanding ice retention — keeps ice for days in lab and field tests
Everyone agreesExceptional durability from rotomolded one-piece construction
Everyone agreesUser-friendly features like removable dry-goods basket, Vortex drain, dual carry options and tie-downs
Most reviewers
Things to Consider
5 considerationsHigh price point (premium MSRP)
Most reviewersHeavy and bulky even when empty, making solo carries impractical
Most reviewersActual usable capacity is smaller than the '45' name implies (~34–37 qt usable)
Most reviewersLid seal/drain can drip if tipped; not fully submersible
Some reviewers
Weather & Conditions
How this gear performs across different environments and seasons
Weather Performance
Climate Suitability
Excels In
- hot weather/heat retention
- coastal and desert environments
- multi-day trips needing long ice life
Limitations
- not recommended for situations requiring frequent long-distance carrying
- not watertight if tipped or submerged; avoid inversion
- condensation/melting water must be drained regularly
What People Are Saying
Aggregated insights from expert reviews and user feedback
Users praise the Tundra 45 for near-unmatched ice retention and rugged durability; common complaints center on weight, price, and occasional minor QC/aesthetic issues.
What Users Love
- ice retention
- durable construction
- useful features (basket, drain, tie-downs)
Common Concerns
- heavy/bulky
- premium price
- lid/drain can drip when tipped
- virtually no widespread reports of cracks or broken latches; many long-term users report it 'works like day one'
runs small
5-year limited warranty; general community reputation for responsive service though few specific claims reported
Expert Reviews
reigns supreme in ice retention and durability for multi-day tripsRead full review →
tough as nails; the Tundra 45 provided the final cerveza fríaRead full review →
the best cooler overall; outperformed its competitors in testingRead full review →
Care & Maintenance
Keep your gear performing at its best with these tips
Maintenance Tips
Keep it in top condition- wash with mild soap and water after use
- prop lid open to air-dry before storage
- avoid petroleum solvents on gaskets
- replace drain or lid gasket if worn
Watch Out For
Known issues to monitor- lid gasket gap or misalignment on some units
- drain plug can unscrew or be misplaced
- minor mold flash/rough edges from manufacturing
Alternatives to Consider
Compare with similar products that might better fit your needs
RTIC 45 Hard Cooler
- 50%–100% cheaper in some models
- significantly lighter (approx. 7–8 lbs less)
- injection-molded construction with thinner walls
when weight and budget are higher priorities than absolute rotomold toughness
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this gear