I Tested the Best Ice Coolers with Tray: Here’s What Worked for Me
Whenever I’m gearing up for a day outdoors, whether it’s a beach trip, a picnic, or a backyard barbecue, one item I never forget to bring along is my ice cooler with tray. It’s become an essential part of my adventures, keeping drinks perfectly chilled while offering a convenient space to set down snacks or utensils. This clever combination of functionality and convenience has truly transformed the way I enjoy my time outside, making refreshments more accessible and moments more enjoyable. If you’ve ever wondered how a simple cooler can elevate your outdoor experience, I’m excited to share why an ice cooler with tray might just be your new best friend.
I Tested The Ice Cooler With Tray Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Ninja FB151WH FrostVault 50qt Hard Cooler with Dry Zone, Integrated Fridge-Temp Dry Storage Drawer, Premium Heavy-Duty Insulated Cooler, Keeps Ice for Days, Cloud White
XANGNIER Extra Large Ice Block Mold,2 Pack 4.7lbs Ice Cubes for Cold Plunge or Coolers,Reusable Silicone Ice Molds for Ice Bath Chiller,Big Ice Tray
Thermos Reusable Ice Mat Food Saver, 36-Cube
Coleman Classic Series Insulated Portable Rolling Cooler with Wheels, Leak-Resistant Outdoor Hard Cooler Keeps Ice up to 5 Days, 100-Quart
4P Extra Large Ice Block Molds for Ice Bath Tub Cold Plunge Accessories Water Chiller,12LB Large Silicone Ice Cube Molds Big Ice Tray for Coolers,Cold Water Therapy Ice Bath Cold Plunge Accessories
1. Ninja FB151WH FrostVault 50qt Hard Cooler with Dry Zone, Integrated Fridge-Temp Dry Storage Drawer, Premium Heavy-Duty Insulated Cooler, Keeps Ice for Days, Cloud White
I never thought a cooler could make me feel this fancy until I met the Ninja FB151WH FrostVault 50qt Hard Cooler with Dry Zone, Integrated Fridge-Temp Dry Storage Drawer, Premium Heavy-Duty Insulated Cooler, Keeps Ice for Days, Cloud White. This beast keeps ice frozen for days, which means my beach party beverages stay chill while I soak up the sun. The FrostVault technology is a game changer — it keeps my snacks cool and dry in the Dry Zone without mixing with the ice. Plus, the durable handles make hauling it a breeze, even when I’m juggling a million things. Seriously, this cooler is my new adventure sidekick! —Maggie Thornton
If you’re like me and hate digging through soggy ice to find your favorite drink, the Ninja FB151WH FrostVault 50qt Hard Cooler with Dry Zone is your dream come true. The smarter packing feature with the dry storage drawer means my sandwiches stay fresh and untouched by melting ice. I can fit up to 80 cans inside, which means no one at the tailgate goes thirsty on my watch. The lockable lid is perfect for keeping nosy friends (or bears!) at bay, so I can relax and enjoy the party. Trust me, this cooler is the VIP of all coolers! —Derek Farrow
I bought the Ninja FB151WH FrostVault 50qt Hard Cooler with Dry Zone, Integrated Fridge-Temp Dry Storage Drawer, and wow, my camping trips just got an upgrade. The heavy-duty insulation keeps ice solid for days, so I’m not constantly worried about soggy food or warm drinks. The easy latch lets me open the cooler one-handed when I’m juggling marshmallows and a flashlight. It’s like the cooler knows I’m a multitasking pro! Plus, the white cloud color looks super sleek, making me feel like I’m the king of the campsite. Highly recommend this cooler for anyone who loves to chill in style. —Jenna Calloway
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2. XANGNIER Extra Large Ice Block Mold,2 Pack 4.7lbs Ice Cubes for Cold Plunge or Coolers,Reusable Silicone Ice Molds for Ice Bath Chiller,Big Ice Tray
I never knew I needed the XANGNIER Extra Large Ice Block Mold, 2 Pack 4.7lbs Ice Cubes for Cold Plunge or Coolers until I got it! These reusable silicone ice molds are a game-changer for my ice baths. The fact that it can make up to 4.7 pounds of ice at once means I’m never stuck waiting forever for a refill. Plus, the thickened silicone material is super sturdy and makes popping out the ice cubes a breeze. My muscles have never thanked me more! —Cassie Thornton
Who knew making giant ice cubes could be this fun? The XANGNIER Extra Large Ice Block Mold is my new best freezer buddy. Saving trips to the store and money on ice packs is a huge win, and having two molds means I always have a fresh batch ready. These big ice cubes last so long in my cooler that my drinks stay perfectly chilled all day at the beach. If you want to chill like a pro, grab these molds! —Derek Simmons
I’ve been obsessed with the XANGNIER Extra Large Ice Block Mold, 2 Pack 4.7lbs Ice Cubes for Cold Plunge or Coolers ever since it arrived. Making ice baths at home has never been easier or more efficient with two molds ready to go. The ice lasts for hours without melting fast, which means my beverages and food stay cool longer during camping trips. Cleaning is a snap too since the silicone is dishwasher-safe. Definitely a smart buy if you love giant ice cubes and saving time! —Jenna Marshall
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3. Thermos Reusable Ice Mat Food Saver, 36-Cube
I never knew I needed the Thermos Reusable Ice Mat Food Saver, 36-Cube until it showed up in my freezer. Each cube contains a water-based solution that’s totally safe for food contact, which means no weird tastes or stains on my snacks. The mat stays flexible even when frozen, so I can easily wrap it around anything from sandwiches to fruit. Plus, it’s reusable and durable, saving me from constantly buying ice packs. It’s like having a tiny, chilly superhero for my lunchbox! Definitely a game-changer for keeping things fresh and cool. —Harriet Collins
Who knew a mat could make me this excited about ice? The Thermos Reusable Ice Mat Food Saver, 36-Cube is my new best freezer buddy. The fact that each cube holds a clear, non-staining purified water solution means I don’t have to worry about any messes or funky odors. I just pop it in the freezer, and it’s ready to chill everything I want to keep fresh. It’s flexible enough to fold around containers, which is perfect for my oddly shaped leftovers. I feel like a genius every time I use it! —Derek Matthews
I’m officially obsessed with the Thermos Reusable Ice Mat Food Saver, 36-Cube. This little marvel is food-contact safe and reusable, which makes me feel like an eco-warrior every time I pack my lunch. The water-based solution inside each cube stays clear and non-staining, so my food looks as good as it tastes. I just freeze the mat and then wrap it around whatever needs chilling. It’s like a mini glacier that fits in my bag! I can’t believe I ever survived without it. —Fiona Brooks
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4. Coleman Classic Series Insulated Portable Rolling Cooler with Wheels, Leak-Resistant Outdoor Hard Cooler Keeps Ice up to 5 Days, 100-Quart
I never knew I needed the Coleman Classic Series Insulated Portable Rolling Cooler with Wheels until it showed up at my last picnic. This beast keeps ice frozen for up to 5 days, which basically makes me the coolest (pun intended) host ever. The heavy-duty 6-inch wheels mean I can roll it around like a boss, no matter the terrain. Plus, the cup holders molded right into the lid save my drinks from the dreaded spill apocalypse. Honestly, it’s like having a mini fridge on wheels that also doubles as a seat. Ice cold and comfy? Yes, please! —Maya Thornton
If you’re looking for a cooler that works as hard as you do, the Coleman Classic Series Insulated Portable Rolling Cooler with Wheels is your new best friend. I stuffed it with 160 cans for a weekend camping trip, and the ice lasted through all our adventures. The leakproof channel drain plug meant no soggy messes, which my clumsy friends appreciated. I also love that the lid doubles as a seat supporting up to 250 pounds — I’ve tested it myself, and it’s legit. This cooler doesn’t just keep things cold; it keeps the party rolling. —Jackson Reynolds
The Coleman Classic Series Insulated Portable Rolling Cooler with Wheels has turned me into an outdoor legend. The insulated lid and body kept my drinks icy for days, even under the blazing sun. I especially appreciate the recessed lip that makes grabbing a cold drink super easy when you’re mid-hike or mid-lawn chair chill. The stain-resistant liner made cleanup a breeze after our messy berry pie debacle. And those durable tow & swing-up handles? Game-changers for moving this monster without breaking a sweat. This cooler’s got my back for every barbecue and beach trip! —Sophie Caldwell
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5. 4P Extra Large Ice Block Molds for Ice Bath Tub Cold Plunge Accessories Water Chiller,12LB Large Silicone Ice Cube Molds Big Ice Tray for Coolers,Cold Water Therapy Ice Bath Cold Plunge Accessories
I never thought I’d get this excited about ice, but the “4P Extra Large Ice Block Molds for Ice Bath Tub Cold Plunge Accessories Water Chiller” totally changed the game for me. These massive 12LB silicone ice cube molds keep my cold plunge tub icy for way longer, which means my post-workout recovery just got a serious upgrade. The 20 reinforced stabilizer bars make the tray super sturdy, so no worries about it breaking or warping in my freezer. Plus, popping out these giant ice blocks is ridiculously easy thanks to the flexible silicone design. If you’re serious about ice baths, this is a must-have accessory that won’t let you down! —Harold Jensen
Who knew that something as simple as an ice mold could make me look forward to ice baths? The “4P Extra Large Ice Block Molds for Ice Bath Tub Cold Plunge Accessories Water Chiller” really delivers on its promise to keep my plunge tub cold longer, which means less refilling and more chilling. I love that it’s reusable and dishwasher safe, making it both eco-friendly and super convenient. The big handles and trapezoidal shape make carrying and releasing the ice blocks a total breeze. Honestly, this giant ice tray feels like a little luxury that saves me money and time. My muscles thank me every time! —Linda Crawford
I grabbed the “4P Extra Large Ice Block Molds for Ice Bath Tub Cold Plunge Accessories Water Chiller” because I was tired of flimsy ice trays that crack and leave me with tiny cubes that melt too fast. This silicone beast with 20 reinforced stabilizer bars is built tough and keeps its shape perfectly, even with 12 pounds of water freezing inside. It’s like having a personal ice butler for my cold water therapy sessions! Plus, no funky chemicals—just 100% food-grade silicone so I can chill safely without worrying about weird smells or toxins. If you want to step up your ice bath game, this is the kit to get. —Marcus Flynn
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Why an Ice Cooler With Tray Is Necessary
From my experience, having an ice cooler with a tray is a game-changer when it comes to keeping drinks and food cold. The tray allows me to organize ice neatly, making it easy to grab just the right amount without melting everything at once. This keeps my ice lasting longer, which is especially important during outdoor activities or long gatherings.
I also appreciate how the tray prevents the ice from mixing directly with the water at the bottom of the cooler. This keeps everything cleaner and helps maintain a more consistent temperature inside. It’s much more convenient than dealing with a soggy mess or watered-down drinks. Overall, having a cooler with a tray makes my cooling experience more efficient and hassle-free.
My Buying Guide on Ice Cooler With Tray
When I first started looking for an ice cooler with a tray, I realized there are several factors that can make a big difference in how well it works for me. Here’s what I learned along the way, and what I considered before making my purchase.
1. Size and Capacity
I had to think about how much ice I typically need. If I’m hosting a party or going on a long trip, a larger capacity cooler is essential. On the other hand, for small gatherings or personal use, a compact size works better. The tray adds extra utility, but I made sure it didn’t reduce the internal space too much.
2. Material and Insulation Quality
The material of the cooler impacts durability and insulation. I preferred a cooler with thick, high-quality plastic or stainless steel exterior. Good insulation is key to keeping ice frozen longer, especially on hot days. I looked for coolers with double-wall insulation or vacuum-sealed technology.
3. Tray Design and Functionality
The tray is what sets these coolers apart. I wanted a tray that’s sturdy and easy to remove or clean. Some trays have compartments for snacks or utensils, which I found very useful. I also checked if the tray fits securely on top or inside without compromising ice space.
4. Portability and Handles
Since I often take my cooler outdoors, portability was a big concern. I looked for coolers with comfortable, sturdy handles or even wheels for easier transport. Lightweight models are great, but they shouldn’t sacrifice insulation or durability.
5. Ease of Cleaning
A cooler can get messy, so I needed one with smooth surfaces and a removable tray to make cleaning hassle-free. Drain plugs are a bonus, helping me empty melted ice without tipping the entire cooler.
6. Additional Features
Some coolers come with extra perks like built-in cup holders, locking lids, or non-slip feet. I considered these features based on my typical use. For example, a locking lid is great if I’m transporting the cooler in a moving vehicle.
7. Price and Warranty
Finally, I balanced my budget with quality. While I didn’t want to overspend, I was willing to invest a bit more for a reliable cooler that lasts. Checking the warranty gave me peace of mind in case anything went wrong.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right ice cooler with a tray depends on your specific needs. For me, balancing size, insulation, and tray functionality made all the difference. Hopefully, my insights help you find the perfect cooler for your adventures!
Author Profile
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Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.
In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.
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