Rotomolded coolers are for serious camping.

Only if you need ice to last multiple days in hot weather. For a day trip or tailgate, injection-molded is fine.

Rotomolded coolers are made by spinning plastic powder in a heated mold, creating a thicker, more uniform wall with no seams. That means better insulation and structural strength — you could stand on one. They’re also way more expensive and heavier. Injection-molded coolers are made by injecting molten plastic into a mold. They’re lighter, cheaper, and good enough for a few hours of cold drinks. But they’ll leak cold faster and crack if you drop them off the truck bed.

If you camp off-grid for a week or live somewhere that hits 100°F, rotomolded is worth it. If you just want beer cold for Saturday’s barbecue, save the $200 and get injection-molded.

You’ll know if you need the heavy one.