Coolers are almost an essential boating item so carrying and keeping a cooler secure are important. These are some quick tips on how to carry a cooler on your boat.
Boat cooler storage and security options
- Cooler Tie-Down Kit: Many cooler manufacturers offer tie-down kits specifically designed for securing coolers to boats. These kits typically include straps, buckles, and mounting hardware that allow you to secure the cooler to the boat’s deck or seating area. Follow the instructions provided with the tie-down kit to ensure proper installation.
- Bungee Cords or Straps: You can use bungee cords or straps to secure the cooler to the boat’s railings, cleats, or other sturdy fixtures. Ensure that the cords or straps are tightened securely and that the cooler is stable and won’t move during boat movement.
- Non-Slip Mats or Grips: Place non-slip mats or grips underneath the cooler to help prevent it from sliding around on the boat. These mats or grips can provide additional stability and help keep the cooler in place, especially in rough water conditions.
- Dedicated Cooler Mounts: Some boats come with built-in cooler mounts or storage compartments designed to securely hold a cooler in place. These mounts may feature straps, brackets, or latches specifically designed to secure the cooler while underway. Check if your boat has any dedicated cooler mounting options available.
- Utilize Boat Seats or Bench Storage: If your boat has seating with storage compartments or built-in coolers, consider using those spaces to keep the cooler secure. Ensure the seat or bench is properly closed and latched to prevent the cooler from shifting or falling out.
- Boat Cooler Bag: Instead of using a traditional hard cooler, you can opt for a cooler bag specifically designed for boating. These bags often have multiple attachment points, D-rings, or straps that allow you to secure them to the boat.
- Custom DIY Solutions: Depending on the layout of your boat, you may come up with custom solutions to secure the cooler. This could involve using brackets, brackets with bungee cords, or other fastening methods to keep the cooler in place. Ensure that any DIY solution you implement is safe, stable, and doesn’t obstruct movement or compromise safety on the boat.