YETI Tundra 65 Cooler
Quick Verdict
Car camping, boating, multi-day trips and large-group outings where long ice life and rugged durability matter
Backpacking, solo hikes, or short casual picnics where weight, size and price are limiting factors
Key Specifications
About This Gear
The YETI Tundra 65 Cooler is a larger-capacity option for extended camping trips or larger families. It offers the same exceptional insulation and durability as other YETI coolers, ensuring your perishables stay fresh and drinks stay cold. However, its size and weight may make it challenging to transport and store, so ensure you have adequate space in your vehicle.
Pros & Cons
Synthesized from expert reviews and user feedback
What People Love
4 positive findingsExceptional, rotomolded construction that stands up to heavy use and is often described as 'tank-like' or 'impressively durable'
Everyone agreesTop-tier insulation delivering multi-day ice retention (reports of 5–9+ days in field tests)
Most reviewersBear-resistant certification (IGBC) and user-friendly features like a removable dry bin, tie-down slots, and PermaFrost gasketed lid
Most reviewersLarge, convenient rectangular capacity that fits many cans and loads efficiently for groups
Most reviewers
Things to Consider
5 considerationsHeavy and bulky (around 30 lb empty), making solo carrying and backpacking impractical
Most reviewersHigh price point (MSRP around $375) compared with cheaper rotomolded competitors
Most reviewersThick insulation reduces usable interior volume versus the nominal '65' label (usable interior closer to ~56 qt)
Most reviewersLacks some integrated convenience extras (cup holders, cutting boards, molded bottle openers) found on some rivals
Some reviewers
Weather & Conditions
How this gear performs across different environments and seasons
Temperature Range
Performs across a wide range; designed to hold ice in triple-digit heat and compatible with dry ice for sub-zero internal temps
Weather Performance
Climate Suitability
Excels In
- long-duration cold retention
- hot, sunny conditions
- coastal and marine use
- secure storage in bear country when locked
Limitations
- too heavy for backpacking or long hikes
- usable interior reduced by thick insulation
- bulk may not fit small car trunks or tight storage spaces
What People Are Saying
Aggregated insights from expert reviews and user feedback
Users overwhelmingly praise the Tundra 65 for durability and ice retention, with most complaints focused on weight, price, and slightly reduced usable interior volume.
What Users Love
- durable construction
- excellent ice retention
- bear-resistant certification
- helpful features like dry bin and tie-downs
Common Concerns
- heavy to carry
- expensive
- usable interior smaller than nominal capacity
- minor drain/handle ergonomics
- long-lived with many users reporting years of service without failure
- rare reports of latch or drain O-ring wear that are typically handled under YETI's 5-year warranty
Exterior/nominal size labeled '65 qt' is accurate for the product line, but usable interior is smaller (≈56 qt) after insulation and dry bin
5-year limited warranty; most users report successful replacements/repairs though some experienced shipping delays
Expert Reviews
a 'hype-worthy' cooler that proved itself with almost every test; durable and feature-rich though not the absolute top performer in insulation vs peersRead full review →
Top Pick for Longer Trips, demonstrating up to 9 days of ice in field testsRead full review →
Best Premium Cooler with Excellent Ice Retention; built like a tank but pricey and heavy for casual useRead full review →
best overall hard-sided camping cooler with premium build quality and best-in-class ice retentionRead full review →
Care & Maintenance
Keep your gear performing at its best with these tips
Maintenance Tips
Keep it in top condition- clean with mild soap and water and air-dry with lid ajar
- store unsealed to avoid trapped moisture
- keep spare drain plug/O-rings and re-seat gasket grooves if needed
Watch Out For
Known issues to monitor- rubber latches and drain O-ring wear over many years (rare)
- occasional minor hinge or pin issues with misuse
Alternatives to Consider
Compare with similar products that might better fit your needs
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this gear