Coolers make it possible to keep food and beverages fresh on long days without refrigeration. But when packed full and weighed down by ice and drinks, larger tubs lacking wheels can become quite cumbersome to take tailgating, camping, or hiking out to a picnic with a view. (A 45-quart Yeti Tundra cooler might weigh more than 50 pounds when holding 28 soda cans and the ice to chill it!) Of course, the big cooler brands like Yeti or RTIC sell models with different carrying options—from handles and padded shoulder straps to puncture-resistant wheels, like on the Yeti Roadie Wheeled Cooler we just reviewed—but not everyone wants or needs to own multiple coolers of comparable size. First, there’s the issue of finding the space to place twin containers in your garage or shed, but then there’s also the expense of paying for another brand-new, top-quality cooler.
If you already have a reliable (if unwieldy) option, consider an upgrade that’s easier on the wallet: cooler wheel kits. Attach a wheel kit whenever you need the extra portability. These four kits are compatible with a range of cooler models, so any of them make it possible to convert your standard cooler to a wheeled cooler in minutes.
1. Sherpa Cooler Wheel Kit
Transform a heavy, 35-quart (or larger!) Yeti Tundra, RTIC, and Kong cooler into a wheeled cooler with this kit from Sherpa. (You’re not out of luck if you have a Yeti Roadie; Sherpa makes a smaller wheel kit, too, for the 24-quart cooler.) Its universal-fit axles adjust so that peg-locks slide into the foot holes on the cooler and are held in place with anodized aluminum cam-lock straps. Once secured, the kit’s four 10-inch pneumatic tires will tote up to 500 pounds of a cooler along on the beach, along a pier to go boating, or out to your favorite fishing spot.
A quick tip from my own camping trips: if you’re heading to sandy terrain, slightly deflate the tires for better traction—it’s a small tweak that makes a big difference. The Sherpa kit’s durability is a standout, but keep in mind it’s pricier than some alternatives, so weigh that against how often you’ll use it.
Get the Sherpa Cooler Wheel Kit on Amazon for $249.97 or at Sherpa Hunting.
2. Mighty Max Ice Chest Dolly
Mighty Max Ice Chest Dolly Pull your favorite cooler—any brand, up to 38 inches long—on the expandable flatbed of the Mighty Max Ice Chest Dolly. This dolly holds a cooler in place via bungee cords as you pull its four all-terrain, flat-free rubber wheels over various surfaces. When you’re ready to head back home, just collapse the cart to transport it in your trunk and store. It’s versatile, too: Remove endwalls and bungee cords to haul up to 250 pounds of gear as a more traditional utility cart.
I’ve found this dolly especially handy for festivals or beach days when you’re hauling more than just a cooler—think chairs, umbrellas, or even a small grill. The collapsible design is a lifesaver for small car trunks, though the bungee cords can loosen on bumpy trails, so double-check them before a long haul.
Get the Mighty Max Ice Chest Dolly on Amazon for $139.00 and at Mighty Max Cart.
3. Rambler Wheels All Terrain Wheel System
The Rambler Wheels two-wheel kit transitions Yeti Tundra 50 through 125 coolers from wheel-less to wheeled as needed without any tools. These 8-inch wheels are puncture-resistant and heavy-duty enough to roll through all terrains, from mud to rocks. (Plus, the kit lets you choose between two axle positions to ensure that the cooler has the necessary clearance for more rugged surfaces.) Tote up to 200 pounds by its two-position telescoping switch-grip handle—adjustable whether you’re a right- or left-handed—that attaches to the molded-in handles on the Yeti cooler.
One thing to note: the two-wheel design means you’ll need to tilt and pull, which might feel less stable than four-wheel options on uneven ground. Still, the no-tool setup is a breeze, and I’ve seen friends swear by this for quick tailgate setups. For extra grip, consider adding a rubberized handle wrap if you’re pulling through slick conditions.
Get the Rambler Wheels All Terrain Wheel System on Amazon for $245.00 or at Rambler Wheels.
4. Retrospec Palisade Cooler Wheels
Retrospec is one of the few brands that sells a wheel kit designed for its line of coolers. This set of wheels pairs with the outdoor gear brand’s 45- or 65-quart Palisade cooler (select the size at the time of checkout for the appropriate size axle). Its two puncture-resistant 12-inch wheels simply strap on via a heavy-duty nylon strap-handle combo. Assembly is quick and easy—allowing you to head off for your next adventure right away.
At $69.99, this is the budget-friendly pick, but it’s specific to Retrospec coolers, so it’s not as versatile. I’d recommend this if you already own a Palisade cooler and want a no-fuss solution. A small hack: add a bit of lubricant to the strap buckles for smoother adjustments during setup.
Get the Retrospec Palisade Cooler Wheels on Amazon for $69.99 or at Retrospec.
Choosing the Right Wheel Kit for Your Needs
Before buying, consider your cooler’s size, the terrain you’ll tackle, and how often you’ll need wheels. Four-wheel kits like Sherpa or Mighty Max offer stability for heavy loads or soft surfaces like sand, while two-wheel options like Rambler or Retrospec are lighter and easier to maneuver on firm ground. Also, check your cooler’s compatibility—most kits list specific models, but universal designs like Mighty Max work with nearly any brand. Lastly, think about storage: collapsible or detachable kits save space when not in use.
One mistake I made early on was overlooking weight capacity. A fully loaded cooler can push past 200 pounds, so double-check the kit’s limit. If you’re like me and tend to overpack for picnics, go for a higher-capacity option to avoid strain.
With these wheel kits, you can transform your trusty cooler into a portable powerhouse without breaking the bank or cluttering your garage. Pick the one that fits your cooler and your adventures, and you’ll wonder how you ever lugged that heavy tub around without wheels.