Think you need to spend top dollar to get premium cooler performance? Think again. I’ve been testing the Canyon Cooler Outfitter 35 for RV camping, beach trips, backyard parties, and even grocery store ice runs for our cold plunge setup. What I’ve found is a rugged, thoughtfully designed cooler that delivers on ice retention, durability, and usability—at a price that makes it one of the best affordable hard coolers I’ve tested.
In this Canyon Cooler review, I’ll share why the Outfitter 35 has earned a permanent spot in my outdoor setup, how it compares to other premium brands, and what makes it stand out in day-to-day use.
Article Overview
Key Takeaways
The Canyon Cooler Outfitter 35 delivers premium ice retention, durability, and portability at a lower price point, making it one of the best affordable hard cooler alternatives to big-name brands.
Thoughtful features like dual handles, non-slip feet, and a no-fault lifetime warranty add confidence, while optional accessories—like a cutting board/side tray and dry goods basket—boost everyday usability.
Its 35-quart size strikes the perfect balance: big enough for weekend trips or tailgates, yet compact and easy to maneuver for RV storage, beach days, or backyard gatherings.
Canyon Cooler Outfitter 35 Overview
The Canyon Cooler Outfitter 35 sits squarely in the sweet spot of size and portability. It’s large enough to store food and drinks for a weekend trip, but small enough to load easily into an RV storage bay, car trunk, or camp kitchen setup.
Here are the essential specs:
Capacity: 35 quarts (fits about two 7 lb. bags of ice plus food and drinks)
Construction: Roto-molded for maximum durability and impact resistance
Insulation: Thick walls that hold ice for multiple days, even in summer heat
Features: Rubber cam latches, non-slip feet, built-in and strap handles, tie-down points
Warranty: No-fault lifetime warranty—one of the best in the business
Colors: Rugged options like Sandstone and Granite to blend in with any outdoor setup
The Outfitter line is designed for hunters, anglers, campers, and overlanders, but its performance makes it just as useful for weekend RV camping or backyard gatherings.
How I Tested the Canyon Cooler Outfitter 35
I’ve primarily used this cooler on RV trips, where it conveniently offers extra cold storage between destinations and then seamlessly transitions into part of my camp kitchen setup when we arrive. I’ve also relied on it for quick grocery store runs to keep our Redwood Outdoors cold plunge topped off.
During my RV camp testing, the 35-quart Canyon Cooler has kept perishables fresh all weekend, with ice still holding strong after days of use—pending outside temperatures, of course, as my testing has mostly taken place in the fall and spring on the South Carolina coast.
For my camp kitchen, the included cutting board doubles as a side tray because it mounts directly to the cooler. This has been a game-changer, giving me a spot to prep food or simply set a cold beer while I flip shrimp skewers on my RV’s pull-out griddle—camp cooking is just better with your preferred beverage nearby.
For food storage between destinations, I’ve always wanted a cooler with a basket, and this one delivers. Keeping cheese, avocados, and other delicate items out of the ice makes meal planning at camp that much easier.
As a bonus, it’s small enough to be manageable yet large enough to handle serious duty—a balance I’ve come to appreciate compared to my larger coolers.
Favorite Features and Add-Ons
Where Canyon really shines is in the add-ons. Because the cooler costs less than a comparable model from some big-name brands, it makes it easier to spend a little extra on Canyon Cooler’s accessories—something you might easily skip with a premium brand.
Here’s a quick synopsis of the add-ons I love, along with other top features:
Cutting Board/Side Tray: A surprisingly useful upgrade. It expands meal prep space in my camp kitchen and doubles as a convenient drink holder.
Dry Goods Basket: Perfect for keeping fragile foods dry and organized above the ice. I probably won’t buy another camp cooler without one.
Handles: Built-in molded handles and sturdy straps give you carrying options depending on whether you’re loading solo or with a buddy.
Durability: The roto-molded body and rugged hardware inspire confidence. After weeks of testing, it’s easily shrugged off bumps and scrapes without showing any signs of wear.
These touches make the Canyon Outfitter 35 more functional than any other cooler I own.
How It Compares to Other Hard Coolers
I also reviewed an RTIC 45-quart hard cooler, and I’d put the Canyon Outfitter 35 right alongside it in terms of performance. The differences just come down to size, accessories, and price.
The Canyon has about 10 quarts less storage capacity than my RTIC, which makes it slightly more compact and easier to maneuver. Because I grabbed the cutting board and basket, the Canyon’s accessories take the cake in my setup, adding daily usability that I’ve always wanted with my other coolers. And the price compares favorably to RTIC coolers while remaining lower than other top competitors, leaving room in your budget to grab those extras.
Bottom line: I trust the Canyon Cooler interchangeably with my RTIC and YETI coolers.
Key Takeaways from This Canyon Cooler Review
In summary, the Outfitter 35 Canyon Cooler offers comparable ice retention and durability to hard-sided coolers from bigger brands, but at a lower price. The 35-quart capacity is versatile. It’s big enough for weekends, yet small enough for easy handling.
Accessory options like the cutting board, basket, and divider add meaningful functionality, while the dual-handle system makes carrying easier. Additionally, the rugged, roto-molded build and no-fault lifetime warranty inspire confidence in its ability to withstand years of adventures.
All in all, my experience tells me it’s one of the best affordable hard coolers I’ve reviewed to date!
Would I Recommend this Canyon Cooler?
The Canyon Cooler Outfitter 35 has proven itself as a durable, versatile, and affordable alternative to big-name coolers. With comparable performance, smart add-ons, and a lifetime warranty, it’s an investment I’d make again without hesitation.
If you’re shopping for the best affordable hard cooler that won’t leave you wishing you’d spent more, the Canyon Outfitter 35 deserves a serious look. It’s earned a permanent role in my camp kitchen setup and will be my go-to cooler for RV trips, tailgates, and backyard gatherings.
Is the Canyon Cooler Outfitter 35 Worth It?
The Outfitter 35 cooler is more than worth it because it delivers the same level of ice retention, durability, and build quality as premium brands, but at a lower price point. With the ability to add accessories like a cutting board and dry goods basket, it offers more functionality, making it one of the best affordable hard cooler options.
How Long Does the Canyon Cooler Outfitter 35 Hold Ice?
In typical camping and outdoor use, the Outfitter 35 can keep ice for several days thanks to its thick insulation and roto-molded construction. During my RV camping trips, it reliably held ice all weekend in warm summer conditions, keeping food and drinks cold until I packed up camp.
What Is the Canyon Cooler Outfitter 35 Best For?
The 35-quart hard cooler’s size is ideal for weekend camping trips, RV outings, or tailgates. It gives you plenty of room for food and drinks without the bulk of a 45 or 65-quart cooler. It fits neatly into small spaces, carries easily, and still holds plenty for two to four people.
What else do you want to know about this 35-quart Canyon Cooler? Let me know in the comments below!
