YETI Roadie 48 Wheeled Cooler Review
Premium Wheeled Cooler for Maximum Portability and Ice Retention
The YETI Roadie 48 Wheeled Cooler combines legendary YETI durability with convenient transport features. After testing it on beach trips, tailgating events, and camping adventures, we found it delivers exceptional ice retention (up to 4 days) while offering effortless mobility with its heavy-duty wheels and telescoping handle.
Key Features Comparison
| Feature | Roadie 48 Wheeled | Standard Wheeled Cooler |
|---|---|---|
| Ice Retention | 4+ days | 2-3 days |
| Capacity | 48 quarts | 40-50 quarts |
| Wheel Type | All-terrain | Basic plastic |
| Weight | 32 lbs (empty) | 25-30 lbs |
| Construction | Rotomolded | Injection molded |
| Warranty | 5 years | 1-2 years |
YETI Roadie 48 Wheeled Cooler
YETI Roadie 48 Wheeled Cooler
YouTube review from external channel, worth noting it’s not ours
This rugged wheeled cooler features YETI’s legendary insulation with the convenience of smooth-rolling wheels and a telescoping handle. The rotomolded construction withstands rough handling while keeping contents cold for days.
Buy on AmazonPros
- Exceptional 4+ day ice retention
- Durable rotomolded construction
- Smooth-rolling all-terrain wheels
- Comfortable telescoping handle
- Easy-to-clean interior
Cons
- Heavier than competitors when empty
- Premium price point
- No built-in bottle opener
- Limited color options
Frequently Asked Questions
The Roadie 48 Wheeled offers similar insulation performance to the Tundra series but adds the convenience of wheels and a telescoping handle. The Tundra has slightly better ice retention (up to 7 days) but is harder to transport without wheels.
Yes, the reinforced lid supports up to 250 lbs, making it suitable as a temporary seat. The flat lid surface is comfortable, though the height may be low for some adults.
No, the Roadie 48 Wheeled doesn’t have bear-resistant certification. For bear country, consider YETI’s certified models or use additional bear-proof storage methods.
Use mild soap and water for routine cleaning. The drain plug allows for easy emptying. For tough odors, a baking soda solution works well. Never use abrasive cleaners that could damage the interior.
Real-World Testing Conditions
We tested the Roadie 48 in various environments including beach trips, weekend camping, and outdoor events. Our evaluation included measuring actual ice retention in 90°F+ temperatures, assessing wheel performance on sand and rough terrain, and testing durability with repeated loading/unloading.
Cooler Features Overview
Watch an overview of the Roadie 48’s key features and design elements:
Note: This video review is from an external channel and not produced by our team.
Key Design Features
All-Terrain Wheel System
48-Quart Capacity
The Roadie 48 features YETI’s PermaFrost insulation with 3 inches of foam in the walls and 2 inches in the lid. The FatWall design provides structural rigidity while maximizing insulation. The NeverFlat wheels are 8.5″ in diameter with sealed bearings for smooth rolling over various surfaces.
Final Recommendation
YETI Roadie 48 Wheeled Cooler
Shop NowConclusion
The YETI Roadie 48 Wheeled Cooler delivers the perfect combination of premium cooling performance and convenient transport. While its weight and price point may deter some buyers, the exceptional build quality, industry-leading ice retention, and smooth-rolling wheels justify the investment for serious outdoor enthusiasts.
For beachgoers, campers, tailgaters, and anyone who needs reliable cooling with easy transport, the Roadie 48 stands out as one of the best wheeled coolers available. Its durable construction ensures years of dependable service, making it a worthwhile long-term investment for your outdoor adventures.