Choosing the Right Cooler Size and Style
From local tournaments to multi-day boating events, choosing the right cooler makes all the difference in keeping your team prepared and your supplies organized. The right cooler should match your environment, team size, and event. Big Frig coolers are built with that balance in mind, offering reliable insulation, rugged construction, and thoughtful features that support real-world performance.
This guide breaks down capacity, functionality, and model recommendations to help you select the perfect cooler for your next event, whether on land, at sea, or anywhere in between.
Understanding Capacity Needs
How Much Space Do You Really Need?
Choosing the right capacity depends on how many people you need to serve and how long your event lasts. A small 10 qt or 20 qt cooler is perfect for individuals, short trips, or personal use. Ideal for storing drinks, snacks, or bait. For pairs or small teams, a 45 qt cooler offers more flexibility, holding enough supplies for a full day of competition or travel.
When calculating capacity, consider not just the number of people using it, but also how long you need supplies to last. A good rule of thumb is to reserve about two quarts of space per person per day for drinks alone, plus additional capacity for ice and food storage.
What Size Works Best for Larger Crews?
Larger groups, for events such as tournament teams or boat crews, benefit from coolers in the 70 qt and up range. These models provide the volume needed for multi-day events, bulk ice storage, or separating beverages from food. In longer competitions or trips, many teams pair two coolers, one dedicated to cold drinks and another reserved for meals or fresh catch. Having the right setup helps streamline access and keeps everything organized for smoother event days.
Need help choosing the right cooler size for you and your event?
Matching Cooler Specs to Conditions
Which Features Matter Most for Performance?
The best cooler for tournaments or outdoor events does more than hold ice, it stands up to constant movement, changing temperatures, and frequent use. Thick, pressure-injected insulation ensures that contents stay cold for days, even in high heat. Sturdy gaskets and tight-sealing lids minimize air loss, preserving temperature longer.
Big Frig coolers also feature quick-drain systems that make it easy to empty melted ice between uses without needing to tip the unit. Integrated tie-down points allow secure placement on docks, truck beds, and boats, while non-skid feet keep the cooler steady even when surfaces are wet or uneven. These features combine performance with practicality, giving you confidence in every environment.
How Do These Features Improve Usability?
On busy tournament days, small design elements can make a big difference. Non-skid feet prevent shifting during travel or rough water, while heavy-duty latches stay closed but open easily with one hand. Reinforced handles make loading and unloading simple, even when the cooler is full. Drainage ports positioned at convenient heights ensure cleanup is quick at the end of each event.
Recommended Big Frig Models
Badlands 45 Qt – The All-Purpose Performer
Compact yet capable, the Badlands 45 Qt cooler balances storage and mobility. It is easy to carry, fits in most vehicles, and keeps ice for days. This model is ideal for two-person teams, daily tournaments, or any event that requires reliable cooling without bulk.
Denali 70 Qt – Built for Extended Events
For serious outings or multi-day competitions, the Denali 70 Qt offers exceptional capacity and rugged performance. Its thick insulation and reinforced hardware make it a powerhouse on docks, boats, or in the back of a truck. It is the go-to choice when you need maximum cold retention and storage space.
Badlands 75 Qt – Tournament-Ready Capacity
When you need volume and strength, the Badlands 75 Qt delivers. It offers enough room for team beverages, meals, and extra ice, making it perfect for large tournaments or weekend expeditions. Durable latches, tie-downs, and an easy-drain plug ensure efficiency from start to finish.
FAQ - Choosing the Right Cooler Size and Style
How long will Big Frig coolers keep ice?
Depending on the model, most Big Frig coolers maintain ice for three to ten days when properly packed and sealed.
Can I customize coolers with team or sponsor logos?
Yes. Big Frig offers full-color UV printing for logos, team names, and sponsor graphics. Ideal for tournaments and branded events.
Are these coolers safe for use on boats and docks?
Absolutely. Non-skid feet and tie-down points are designed specifically for marine environments, keeping coolers stable and secure.
Which cooler is best for travel or road events?
The Badlands 45 qt is the most versatile for transport. It fits easily in most vehicles and still provides substantial capacity.
Which cooler is best large groups, multi-day trips, or events?
The Badlands 70qt has more capacity for supplies, food, drinks, and ice. The size helps store enough supplies and ice to last for days or serve large groups.
Choose the right cooler size for you, your group, and your event!
Big Frig supplies multiple cooler sizes, perfect for any event!