Let’s Dive into Coleman Fliplid Personal Cooler
The Coleman Fliplid Personal Cooler isn’t just a cooler; it’s a time machine. Harkening back to the classic designs of yesteryear, this cooler promises to keep your provisions cold while offering a dose of nostalgia. With Coleman being a household name in outdoor gear, I was eager to see if this cooler lives up to the brand’s reputation for reliability and functionality.
I needed a cooler that could handle weekend camping trips and occasional day trips to the range. My old cooler, a cheap plastic one, couldn’t hold ice for more than a few hours. I wanted something with better insulation and a more robust build.
Upon unboxing the Coleman Fliplid Personal Cooler, I was immediately struck by its retro aesthetic. The green painted steel body feels solid, and the stainless steel handles with rubber grips provide a secure and comfortable hold. The build quality appears excellent, a significant step up from the flimsy plastic coolers I’ve used in the past.
Compared to modern, rotomolded coolers which can cost hundreds of dollars, the Coleman Fliplid Personal Cooler offers a different value proposition. While those coolers might offer superior ice retention, they often come at a significant weight and price penalty. I considered a rotomolded option, but ultimately chose the Coleman Fliplid Personal Cooler for its blend of classic design, affordability, and reasonable ice retention. I also looked at a similar cooler from Igloo, but the Coleman’s steel latch seemed more durable.
My first impression was definitely excitement. The Coleman Fliplid Personal Cooler felt like a well-built, reliable cooler that would serve me well for years to come. The retro design also appealed to my sense of nostalgia, reminding me of family camping trips from my childhood.
Real-World Testing: Putting Coleman Fliplid Personal Cooler to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test for the Coleman Fliplid Personal Cooler was a weekend camping trip in the mountains. I packed it with ice, drinks, and food, and set off for the trailhead. The weather was relatively mild during the day, but temperatures dropped significantly at night.
The Coleman Fliplid Personal Cooler performed admirably. Even after two days, there was still a significant amount of ice remaining, and my food and drinks stayed refreshingly cold. The cooler was easy to carry, even when fully loaded, thanks to the comfortable handles.
There were no major issues, but I did notice that the steel latch could be a bit stiff to operate at first. A little lubricant solved this problem.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Coleman Fliplid Personal Cooler has held up remarkably well. I’ve taken it on numerous camping trips, fishing excursions, and even used it as a makeshift seat at the shooting range. The cooler has proven to be a reliable companion.
Despite being bumped around in the back of my truck and exposed to the elements, the Coleman Fliplid Personal Cooler shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The painted steel body has proven to be surprisingly durable, with only a few minor scratches. The stainless steel handles and hinges remain in excellent condition.
Cleaning the Coleman Fliplid Personal Cooler is a breeze. The smooth interior liner wipes clean easily, and the rustproof, leak-resistant drain channel makes it easy to empty melted ice without tilting the cooler. Compared to my old plastic cooler, which was always a hassle to clean, the Coleman Fliplid Personal Cooler is a welcome upgrade. It definitely outperforms that old cooler in every aspect from ice retention to durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Coleman Fliplid Personal Cooler
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Coleman
- Color: Green
- Volume: 54 quarts
- Cooler Size: 54 quarts
- Capacity: Holds 85 cans
- Latch: Solid steel latch for a secure seal
- Handles: Stainless steel with rubber grips for easy carrying
- Hinges and Screws: Rust-resistant to prevent breaking
- Drain: Rustproof, leak-resistant channel for no-tilt draining
- Body: Painted steel for durability and classic look
These specifications are important because they directly impact the cooler’s performance and usability. The 54-quart capacity is ample for most weekend trips, while the steel latch ensures a tight seal to keep the cold in. The sturdy handles make it easy to transport, and the durable construction ensures that the cooler can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.
Performance & Functionality
The Coleman Fliplid Personal Cooler performs its primary job – keeping things cold – very well. While it may not offer the extreme ice retention of high-end rotomolded coolers, it provides adequate cooling for most applications. I’ve consistently been able to keep ice frozen for at least two days in moderate temperatures.
Its strengths are its durability, ease of use, and classic design. The main weakness is its ice retention compared to more expensive options. It meets my expectations for a cooler in its price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The Coleman Fliplid Personal Cooler boasts a classic, retro design that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The painted steel body feels solid and durable, while the stainless steel handles provide a comfortable grip. The cooler is relatively lightweight for its size, making it easy to carry.
The cooler is incredibly user-friendly. There’s virtually no learning curve – simply fill it with ice and provisions, and you’re good to go.
Durability & Maintenance
The Coleman Fliplid Personal Cooler is built to last. The painted steel body, stainless steel handles, and rust-resistant hinges and screws are designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use. With proper care, this cooler should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple. The smooth interior liner is easy to wipe clean, and the rustproof, leak-resistant drain channel makes it easy to empty melted ice.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Coleman Fliplid Personal Cooler doesn’t come with any specific accessories. However, it is compatible with a variety of aftermarket cooler accessories, such as ice packs and dividers. You can also customize the cooler with stickers or paint to personalize its appearance.
Pros and Cons of Coleman Fliplid Personal Cooler
Pros
- Classic, retro design.
- Durable painted steel body.
- Stainless steel handles with comfortable rubber grips.
- Excellent value for the price.
- Easy to clean and maintain.
Cons
- Ice retention not as long as high-end rotomolded coolers.
- Steel latch can be a bit stiff at first.
Who Should Buy Coleman Fliplid Personal Cooler?
The Coleman Fliplid Personal Cooler is perfect for casual campers, picnickers, and anyone who appreciates a classic design. It’s also a great option for those who need a reliable cooler for day trips or weekend getaways. This cooler offers ample space and durability without breaking the bank.
Those who need maximum ice retention for extended trips in extreme conditions might want to consider a high-end rotomolded cooler.
A must-have accessory is a set of high-quality ice packs to maximize ice retention. Also, consider adding a cooler divider to keep food and drinks organized.
Conclusion on Coleman Fliplid Personal Cooler
The Coleman Fliplid Personal Cooler is a fantastic cooler that combines classic design with reliable performance. While it may not offer the extreme ice retention of more expensive options, it provides excellent value for the price. The durable construction, easy maintenance, and ample capacity make it a great choice for a variety of outdoor activities.
The price of $199.99 is absolutely justified for the quality and features offered. The Coleman Fliplid Personal Cooler offers a solid construction and a proven design.
I would definitely recommend the Coleman Fliplid Personal Cooler to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable cooler with a touch of nostalgia. If you want a cooler that will last for years and bring back fond memories of family camping trips, this is the one for you. Go ahead and grab a Coleman Fliplid Personal Cooler and make your next outdoor adventure a memorable one!