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Igloo Trailmate® Journey 70 Qt Cooler vs Coleman Pro 45-Quart Hard Cooler

Editorial Team
Last modified at August 9, 2026
When it comes to choosing the right cooler for your camping adventures, the Igloo Trailmate® Journey 70 Qt Cooler and the Coleman Pro 45-Quart Hard Cooler are two top contenders. Both offer excellent ice retention and durability, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences.

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Igloo Trailmate® Journey 70 Qt CoolerColeman Pro 45-Quart Hard Cooler
Trailmate® Journey 70 Qt Cooler
Coleman Pro 45-Quart Hard Cooler
Capacity

17.5 gal

11.3 gal

Ice Retention Duration

N/A

96 hr

Weight

34.7 lb

19.8 lb

Dimensions

33.82 × 20.31 × 23.62 in

24.53 × 16.38 × 17.17 in

Warranty

1 Year

10 Years

Drain Plug

Threaded, garden-hose compatible with non-slip cap

Included

Handle Type

Horizontal dual-trigger steel Glide™ with locking & telescoping functions

Rugged

Wheel Type

10 in never-flat, smooth-ride all-terrain wheels

No wheels

Warranty Duration

1 Year

10 Years

Wheel Size

10 in

No wheels

Dry Storage

Lockable, water-resistant storage compartment with anti-leak gasket

No

Durability

Trailmate® Journey 70 Qt Cooler

3.1/ 5.0

Coleman Pro 45-Quart Hard Cooler

4.4/ 5.0

Durability is crucial for campers who need a cooler that can withstand rough outdoor conditions. A more durable cooler ensures longevity and reliability, saving you money in the long run. The Coleman Pro 45-Quart Hard Cooler stands out in this category with its roto-molded plastic construction, durable hinges, and a 10-year warranty. Users consistently praise its thick walls and sturdy design, making it a reliable choice for extended trips. While the Igloo Trailmate® Journey 70 Qt Cooler is generally durable, some users have reported issues with hinges and wheel quality over time, making it slightly less reliable for long-term use.

Ice Retention

Trailmate® Journey 70 Qt Cooler

4.6/ 5.0

Coleman Pro 45-Quart Hard Cooler

4.7/ 5.0

Ice retention is a key factor for campers who need to keep their food and drinks cold for extended periods. Both coolers excel in this category, with the Coleman Pro 45-Quart Hard Cooler slightly edging out the Igloo Trailmate® Journey 70 Qt Cooler. The Coleman Pro features extra-thick insulation and a freezer-style gasket, keeping ice frozen for up to four days. The Igloo Trailmate® also performs admirably, with users praising its consistent cooling performance. However, the slight advantage in ice retention duration makes the Coleman Pro a better choice for those who prioritize long-lasting cooling.

Portability

Trailmate® Journey 70 Qt Cooler

4.3/ 5.0

Coleman Pro 45-Quart Hard Cooler

3.9/ 5.0

Portability is essential for campers who need to transport their cooler over various terrains. The Igloo Trailmate® Journey 70 Qt Cooler shines in this category with its large, all-terrain wheels and telescoping handle, making it easy to transport even over rough surfaces like sand or stairs. In contrast, the Coleman Pro 45-Quart Hard Cooler, while featuring removable handles and tie-down points, is heavier and lacks wheels, making it less convenient for long carries. This makes the Igloo Trailmate® a better choice for those who need to move their cooler frequently.

Ease Of Use

Trailmate® Journey 70 Qt Cooler

3.6/ 5.0

Coleman Pro 45-Quart Hard Cooler

4.6/ 5.0

Ease of use is important for campers who want a cooler that is convenient and hassle-free. The Coleman Pro 45-Quart Hard Cooler excels in this category with its one-handed latch and oversized drain plug, making it easy to open, close, and empty. While the Igloo Trailmate® Journey 70 Qt Cooler offers convenient features like a sliding dry storage box and cup holders, some users have noted occasional issues with the telescoping handle. This makes the Coleman Pro a more user-friendly option overall.

Build Quality

Trailmate® Journey 70 Qt Cooler

4.6/ 5.0

Coleman Pro 45-Quart Hard Cooler

4.7/ 5.0

Build quality is a critical factor for campers who need a cooler that can withstand the rigors of outdoor use. Both coolers are praised for their sturdy construction and thoughtful design. The Igloo Trailmate® Journey 70 Qt Cooler features a thick rubber lining and rugged wheels, while the Coleman Pro 45-Quart Hard Cooler boasts roto-molded plastic, stainless steel latches, and a seamless design. Both coolers are built to last, making this category a tie.

Convenience Features

Trailmate® Journey 70 Qt Cooler

4.7/ 5.0

Coleman Pro 45-Quart Hard Cooler

4.1/ 5.0

Convenience features can enhance the overall camping experience by providing additional functionality and ease of use. The Igloo Trailmate® Journey 70 Qt Cooler stands out in this category with its array of handy extras, including bottle openers, cup holders, and a mobile device stand. The Coleman Pro 45-Quart Hard Cooler, while featuring tie-down slots and an antimicrobial liner, lacks some of the additional conveniences offered by the Igloo Trailmate®. This makes the Igloo Trailmate® a better choice for those who value added features.

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Conclusion & Final Verdict:

In conclusion, the Igloo Trailmate® Journey 70 Qt Cooler is the better choice for campers who prioritize portability and convenience features. Its large wheels and telescoping handle make it easy to transport over various terrains, and its additional features like bottle openers and cup holders enhance the overall camping experience. On the other hand, the Coleman Pro 45-Quart Hard Cooler excels in durability and ice retention, making it ideal for extended trips where long-lasting cooling is crucial. Choose the Igloo Trailmate® for ease of use and added features, or the Coleman Pro for durability and superior ice retention.

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