Lifetime 55 vs. RTIC 45 Coolers

[John Harper]

Looking at a larger bear resistant cooler for car camping. I was looking at the RTIC 45 but also found the Lifetime 55 for $100 less. Both seem to have good reviews, similar ice retention, bear resistance. The Lifetime is 6 pounds lighter (~one bag of ice!), 10 quart more capacity, but slightly larger outside dimensions. Lifetime coolers available at Walmart, so return is easy if there's a problem.

Does anyone have experience using the Lifetime 55 coolers? I know RTIC has a solid reputation, but the Lifetime seems to be a better value overall.

John

[Gogd]

Bear resistant? LOL. Love to find out the certifying agency. Those latches are not going to stop a bear or raccoon. The lid accommodates a lock but that is good only for small critters and campers. A bear will peel the lid off in the same manner they peel open car doors. Given these are not bear proof, the general design is over kill for most of us, but probably a good fashion statement among the Humvee crowd. Unless you are horse packing or camp with a bunch of drunk yahoos you shouldn't need such $$durability$$.
Ed

[John Harper]

Bear resistant? LOL. Love to find out the certifying agency. Those latches are not going to stop a bear or raccoon. The lid accommodates a lock but that is good only for small critters and campers. A bear will peel the lid off in the same manner they peel open car doors. Given these are not bear proof, the general design is over kill for most of us, but probably a good fashion statement among the Humvee crowd. Unless you are horse packing or camp with a bunch of drunk yahoos you shouldn't need such $$durability$$.
Ed

Thanks for your response.

John