RidgeMonkey CoolaBox Compact 12L – My Honest Review
As an angler who loves spending a few days on tbank at a time, a reliable cooler is an absolute must. I picked up the RidgeMonkey CoolaBox Compact 12L a while ago, and after using it on multiple sessions, I can confidently say it’s a fantastic bit of kit—perfect for a 48-hour session. However, if you’re planning to stay for longer, you might need to manage your ice packs carefully, as after three days or more, things start to get a bit warm.
Build Quality & Design
RidgeMonkey has a reputation for making well-built and practical fishing gear, and the CoolaBox Compact 12L is no exception. The first thing I noticed was the solid, rugged construction—it feels well-made and durable, which is exactly what you need when you’re out in the elements.
The 12L capacity is just right for a short session. It fits all the essentials—milk, bacon, food, and a few drinks—without being too bulky or heavy to carry. The carry handle is sturdy, and the latches seal tightly, ensuring everything inside stays secure. The lid also has a built-in bottle opener, which is great but I don’t drink bottled beer so never use it.
Performance & Cooling
This cooler performs brilliantly over a 24-48-hour session. When packed with a few ice packs, it keeps everything chilled with no problem at all. The insulation is really effective, and I’ve had milk, meats, and drinks stay ice-cold for two full days.
However, once you get into day three and beyond, things start to warm up. It’s not a dealbreaker, but if you’re planning a longer trip, you’ll need to swap out ice packs or find a way to refresh them. If you don’t, you’ll notice that drinks become lukewarm, and perishable food starts to soften up.
For what it’s designed for—short to medium-length sessions—it’s spot-on. If you’re looking for a cooler that will keep things frozen for four or five days, you might need to look at a higher-end model or battery powered fridge with thicker insulation.
Ease of Use & Portability
One of the things I really like about the CoolaBox Compact 12L is how easy it is to carry and transport. Unlike larger, bulkier coolers that can be a pain to lug around, this one is compact and lightweight, making it ideal for quick trips or when you don’t need to bring loads of food.
The lid opens smoothly, and the internal space is just right, meaning you can fit your essentials without wasted space.
Value for Money
For the price, I think the RidgeMonkey CoolaBox Compact 12L is an excellent investment. It does exactly what it’s supposed to do—keep things cool for up to 48 hours—and it does it well. Sure, if you’re planning a week-long fishing trip, you might want something bigger or more heavy-duty, but for the majority of my sessions, this cooler is absolutely perfect.
Final Verdict
Would I recommend it? Absolutely. If you’re after a reliable, compact, and well-insulated cooler for short fishing sessions or camping trips, this is a solid choice. It’s tough, easy to carry, and keeps food and drinks cold for a good two days.
Final score: 9/10 – a brilliant cooler for weekend trips, well worth the investment!