Rotomolded coolers are the best bet, but you don't need to spend Yeti money.
Yes, that’s the category you want — the rotomolded ones. They’re tough, seal tight, and won’t warp or crack after a season of sitting in the sun as a dry box.
The reason rotomolded coolers double as good dry storage is the same reason they keep ice for days: thick walls and a solid gasket. Throw your tent stakes, stove, and cookware in there, stack something on top, and you’re fine. A standard Coleman with a flimsy lid won’t cut it as a seat or storage — it’ll buckle.
But you don’t need a Yeti. RTIC, Pelican, Orca, even the Costco brand (Keter?) makes a solid rotomolded box for half the price. The ice retention difference is negligible for most campers. Spend the savings on better food.
Just make sure it’s legit rotomolded, not just a “heavy duty” label. If
