Love learning about all the new products that we get to test? Overall, it tackled the trail, even fully loaded with ice and beer, in remarkable fashion. I took it on a trail with the intent to getting to the top and enjoying a beer at the top. The trail had plenty of rocks and elevation that it went over pretty easily. Some of the rocks had it wanting to twist over, but the worse that happened was some water drained out. This brings me to a point that if it did turn over all the contents would come out, as the lid is not locking.
It is large enough to fit all of the food and drinks for a decent-sized group while still not being overly large to the point that it is a challenge to transport and store. But for someone after the maximum storage space, the 70-quart model may prove to be a bit limited. On numerous occasions, we found our hand searching for a front handle that doesn’t exist, only to latch onto the bottom of the little white box nestled on the front. Unfortunately, that little white box slides up and off the cooler as soon as you apply pressure – not a great handle, so the retracted trolley arm will have to do. Our least favorite aspect in terms of usability is the drain found in this cooler. Though it has a wide channel to help empty it of meltwater, the inside of the drain also is turned into a protruding tunnel into the interior by a white plastic tube.
For what it’s worth, this was one of our “fan favorites” among friends and family while we were conducting an ice retention test which included 25 different coolers. A quick look at the Igloo Trailmate will reveal its’ unique stance. This is not a run of the mill budget cooler yet not a roto molded cooler, it falls somewhere in between. Though at first glance the Trailmate looks like a great deal, we’re not so sure. But if wheels and features are what you’re after and a budget is what you’re on, the Igloo might be the right fit for your life.
If you are simply after an ice chest with the longest ice life and most impressive build quality (and have a very large budget), then stick to Yeti. But if you need something more mobile and plan on doing a lot of entertaining, the Trailmate should be on your list. As always, ice life is one of the most important metrics of a good cooler.
In addition, it comes with an anti-skid base that helps to avoid creating scuff marks on your boat deck. One area that the Igloo Trailmate Cooler excels at is its features. There are a ton of great features that Igloo has included that makes these ice chests stand out from just about everything else on the market. Overall, this cooler crushed the trails and kept ice for days.
We took a deeper look into the cooler that is currently selling out online, so you don’t have to. With its impressive ice retention capabilities powered by Igloo’s eco-friendly Thermacool technology and a host of convenient features, it will easily become your favorite tailgating companion. Although many Igloo models are equipped with Cool Riser Technology®, the Trailmate also excels in this area. Combined with the Ultratherm® insulation of the cooler and lid and UV inhibitors, this system allows the ice to be kept for 4 days at an ambient temperature of 30 degrees Celsius.
These two round discs are the most redeeming feature of the whole cooler. At just over 35 pounds, the Trailmate is also one of the lightest wheeled models we tested. To experience the Trailmate Journey firsthand, we suggest purchasing it on Igloo’s website now before it sells out.
These provide additional stability when the cooler is laid flat. The no-slip grip combined with the aggressive tire tread means that you can place this cooler on uneven surfaces and slopes without worrying about it falling over or rolling away. Easily the most recognizable feature has to be the igloo trailmate massive wheels. These are some of the largest we have seen on any cooler. And they come with some aggressive tread that allows for great traction through dirt, sand, and grass. And combine with the fact that they are never-flats, you have a great mobility solution that is designed to last.
First, you have the butler tray that is built into the inside of the lid. Second, there is a removable dry storage box on the front of the cooler so you can and keep the phone/keys in there without fear of water or sand damaging then. As we mentioned in the opening, we feel the Trailmate is the best bang for the buck when it comes to wheeled coolers. This cooler others impressive ice retention, more features than most competitors, yet doesn’t break the bank. Prices are constantly fluctuating, but normally the Trailmate can be picked up for under $250. Some may find this price point to be steep, but a comparison of a similar sized roto molded cooler will reveal the value.
The Trailmate Journey has a 70qt capacity and can keep oz beverage cans cold with Ultratherm® Technology built into the body and lid. We believe in offering the very best value, quality, and selection. Refunds are issued to the original form of payment, unless returned in store
where some exclusions may apply. Refunds are issued to the original form of payment, unless returned in store where some exclusions may apply. We like both products and feel that it boils down to the individual.