The Ultimate Guide to Cooler Baskets: How to Keep Your Food Dry in Any Ice Chest

I. The "Soggy Sandwich" Problem: Why You Need a Dry Goods Tray

There is a specific kind of heartbreak known only to campers, tailgaters, and beachgoers. You've spent the morning packing your ice chest with premium steaks, craft beers, and sandwich fixings. You hike to your spot, crack open the lid, and reach down for lunch—only to find your deli meat floating in a soup of cold water and melted ice.

The "soggy sandwich" isn't just annoying; it's a waste of money and a surefire way to ruin a trip.

For years, the solution has been imperfect. People try to double-bag their food in Ziplocs (which eventually leak) or balance Tupperware precariously on top of the ice (which shifts and sinks as the ice melts).

This is why cooler accessories are not just luxuries; they are necessities. Specifically, a cooler basket—often called a dry goods tray or rack—is the single most important upgrade you can make to your setup. By elevating your dry food above the ice, you get the best of both worlds: icy cold refrigeration without the moisture that destroys bread, vegetables, and packaging.

But here lies the second problem: Finding a basket that actually fits your specific cooler has historically been a nightmare. Until now.

II. The Breakthrough: Introducing the Universal Cooler Basket

If you own a premium cooler like a Yeti or RTIC, you might get lucky and find a basket made specifically for it. But what if you have an older Igloo, a vintage Coleman, or a rugged generic model you bought at a hardware store?

For decades, millions of cooler owners have been out of luck. Why? Because of "The Ledge."

The "No Ledge" Problem

Most dry goods trays on the market rely on a simple design: they rest on a molded ledge or lip inside the cooler.

The Issue: 90% of coolers on the market do not have this internal ledge. They have smooth walls from top to bottom.

The Result: If you try to put a standard basket in these coolers, it falls straight to the bottom, right into the slush.

The Patented Solution: Using Geometry, Not Hardware

At Above Sea Level, we decided to solve this engineering gap once and for all. We are proud to introduce the Universal Cooler Basket—a twice-patented breakthrough that allows you to add organization to almost any ice chest.

This isn't just another wire rack. It is the world's first cooler basket designed to work without internal cooler ledges.

How It Works: The Taper Advantage

Almost all hard-sided coolers share a hidden design feature: Tapered Walls. Due to the manufacturing process (rotomolding or injection molding), coolers are slightly wider at the top than they are at the bottom.

Our Universal Basket exploits this geometry.

• The Wedge Fit: Because the cooler walls narrow as they go down, our basket naturally "wedges" itself against the sides.
• Gravity Does the Work: You simply push the basket down until it grips the tapered walls. The heavier the items you put in the basket, the tighter it sits.
• Adjustable Height: Want your food high and dry? Place the basket near the top. Want to lower the cooler's center of gravity? Push it deeper into the cooler where the walls are narrower.

This is a complete game-changer for packing. You no longer need to hunt for a basket that matches a specific model number. With the Universal Cooler Basket, you can upgrade virtually any box into a precision food storage system.

III. The "Precision Fit" Series: Custom Solutions for Top Brands

While our Universal Basket is the "Swiss Army Knife" of cooler accessories, we also know that many of you own specific, popular cooler models and want a "glove-like" fit.

We have engineered a massive lineup of fixed-size cooler baskets designed to drop perfectly into the world's most popular high-performance coolers. These aren't generic "one size fits all" trays; they are measured to the millimeter for your specific model.

1. The Yeti Roadie & Tundra Haul Collection

Yeti changed the game with the Roadie and Tundra series, but their accessory options can be limited. We fill that gap with powder-coated steel baskets that are tougher and more airflow-friendly than standard plastic trays.

Yeti Roadie 15, 24, 32, 48, & 60: We cover the entire Roadie lineup. Our baskets allow for cooler air flow than solid plastic trays. Pro Tip: the Roadies are wide enough to fit two of our baskets side-by-side, doubling your dry storage.

Yeti Tundra Haul: As Yeti's first wheeled cooler, the Haul is a beast. Our basket sits perfectly on the rim, keeping your prep food safe while you roll firmly over gravel or sand. Pro Tip: the Haul is similarly wide enough to fit two of our baskets side-by-side.

2. RTIC Coolers

RTIC coolers are famous for their "overbuilt" quality, but finding aftermarket cooler parts for them can be tricky. We support the entire Ultra-Light lineup and the most famous member of the Ultra-Tough family.

RTIC 52 Ultra-Light & 52 Wheeled: Whether you carry it or roll it, our basket fits the 52-quart model seamlessly.

RTIC 72 Wheeled Ultra-Light: For the big trips. This large basket helps segment the massive cavern of the 72, keeping eggs and bread separated from the drinks below.

RTIC 32 Ultra-Light: Perfect for day trips where space is at a premium.

RTIC 65 Ultra-Tough: For the rotomolded classic, our heavy-duty basket matches the rugged durability of the cooler itself.

3. The "Everyman" Coolers: Lifetime, Ozark Trail, & Coleman

You don't need a $400 cooler to deserve dry sandwiches. We are one of the few companies making high-quality steel accessories for the budget-friendly heavy hitters.

Lifetime 77 & 115: These massive coolers are favorites for hunters and anglers. Our baskets help you organize distinct layers in these deep chests.

Ozark Trail 73: A Walmart classic that performs well but lacks organization—until now.

Coleman 54 Steel Belted: The retro legend. Our basket fits this classic design, adding modern functionality to a vintage aesthetic.

Why Choose Steel Over Plastic?

Most factory-included dry goods trays are made of solid plastic. While functional, they block the cold air rising from the ice. Our baskets use a wire grid design which offers two distinct advantages:

• Maximum Airflow: Cold air circulates freely through the basket, keeping your dry goods colder than they would be in a plastic tub.
• Condensation Prevention: Solid plastic trays collect condensation pools at the bottom. Our open grid ensures your food stays dry, not sitting in a puddle of its own sweat.

IV. Comparison: Universal vs. Fixed – Which Basket Is Right for You?

With so many options, you might be wondering: "Should I get the Universal Basket or search for a model-specific one?"

The answer comes down to the specific cooler you own. Here is the definitive compatibility guide to help you decide.

1. The "Ledge-Free" & Vintage Hard Coolers

This is where the Universal Basket truly shines. Millions of coolers were manufactured without internal accessory slots. Our patented design allows you to add organization to brands and models that have been "orphaned" by the aftermarket.

The Universal Basket is verified to fit a wide range of models, including:

Premium & Roto-Molded Heavyweights

• Yeti Roadie 20: The discontinued legend. It never had an internal ledge, so no factory basket ever existed for it—until now.
• RTIC: 45, 65, 110, and 145.
• Pelican Elite: 30Qt, 70Qt, 95Qt, 250Qt, and Wheeled models (45, 55, 80).
• Engel: Deep Blue/High Performance Series (25, 35, 45, 50, 65, 80, 85, 123, 165).
• Orca: Classic Hard-Sided (20, 26, 40, 58, 75).
• Canyon Coolers: Outfitter Series (35, 55, 75, 125), Mule 30, and Prospector 103.
• Grizzly: Kenai 45, and Hard-Sided 60, 75, 100, 165.

Other High-Performance & Store Brands

• Cabela's / Bass Pro Shops: Polar Cap Equalizer Series (25, 40, 60, 80, 100).
• Bison: 25, 50, 75, 125 Quart.
• K2 Summit: 30, 50, 60, 70, 90, 120.
• Siberian: Outback Series (30, 50, 82, 125) and Alpha Pro (45, 65, 85).
• Cordova: 24, 28, 42, 85, 120 Cans.
• Kysek: 25, 35, 50, 75, 100, 150.
• Vibe Element: 45, 75, 110, and 70 (Wheeled).
• Mammoth Ranger: 25, 45, 65, 125.
• Techni Ice: Signature Series 47, 63, 111, 132.
• Others: Driftsun (45-110), Kong (25-110), Orion (25-85), Palm (30-90), Taiga (27-88), Calcutta Renegade (35-125), Frosty, Bird Dog, nICE, and Thermik.

Everyday, Marine & Traditional Favorites

Coleman:

• Marine & Coastal Series: 28, 36, 48, 50, 70, 82, 100, 120, 150, 200 qt.
• Xtreme Series: 50, 52, 62, 70, 75, 82, 100, 120 qt.
• Performance & Standard: 28, 30, 36, 40, 45, 48, 54, 60, 150 qt.
• Specialty: Steel Belted 54, Party Stacker 20-Can.

Igloo:

• Marine Ultra: 48, 52, 54, 72, 94, 110.
• Sportsman: 20, 40, 55, 70.
• Super Tough (STX): 54, 72, 120, 150.
• Others: BMX 52, IMX 70, Yukon (50, 70), Trailmate (Journey & Liddup), Party Bar 125.

• Rubbermaid: Marine Series (50, 102, 150), DuraChill (75), and standard hard-sided (34, 45, 48, 54, 60).
• Ozark Trail: High-Performance 52 and 73.
• Lifetime: High Performance 28, 55, 65, 77.

Soft-Sided & Specialty Coolers

• AO Coolers: Stow-N-Go 38, Everest 80.
• Unique Models: Lit Firefly TS-300, Stanley Adventure 30, CoolersByU, CustomCoolerStore.

Don't see your model listed? The Universal Basket fits many coolers beyond this list! However, cooler manufacturers often change their molds over time, and most hard-sided coolers feature tapered walls (meaning they get narrower the deeper you go). To ensure a perfect fit, please measure the internal width exactly where you plan to install the basket, rather than just at the top rim. A quick measurement at the specific depth ensures the basket won't be too wide for your setup.

2. The Soft Cooler Revolution: A First for the Industry

If you own a high-end soft cooler, you know the struggle. Soft coolers are incredible for portability, but they have historically had zero internal organization. They are essentially insulated bags where your sandwich fights for space with your soda cans.

The Universal Basket changes this forever.

While soft coolers do not have tapered walls, the thick, high-density insulation used in premium models creates a natural compression point.

How it Works: In models like the Yeti Hopper Flip 12 and Yeti Hopper Flip 18, the heavy-duty insulation acts as a firm "shelf," suspending the basket securely above your ice.

The Result: You finally get a rigid, crush-proof dry storage zone inside a soft cooler. Note: This fits the Flip 12 and 18 only; it does not fit the smaller Flip 8.

3. The Decision Checklist

Use this simple rule of thumb to pick your basket:

Go with the PRECISION FIT (Fixed Size) if:

You own one of the specific models we engineered a custom basket for:

• Yeti: Roadie 24, 32, 48, 60, or Tundra Haul.
• RTIC: 52/72 Wheeled, 32/52 Ultra-Light, 65 Ultra-Tough.
• Lifetime: 77 or 115
• Ozark Trail: 73 Quart
• Coleman: 54 Quart Steel Belted.

Go with the UNIVERSAL BASKET if:

• You own a Yeti Hopper Flip 12 or 18 (Soft Cooler).
• You own a Yeti Roadie 20.
• You own practically any other cooler between 35 and 75 quarts that isn't listed above (Igloo, Pelican, Orca, Canyon, etc.).

V. Installation & Pro-Tips: Getting the Perfect Fit

Because the Universal Basket relies on a unique tension-fit system (rather than just sitting on a ledge), a little technique ensures a rock-solid hold.

For Hard Coolers:

• Push to Wedge: Lower the basket into the cooler evenly. Once you reach your desired depth, give it a firm push downwards.
• Gravity is Your Friend: The weight of your dry goods (apples, sandwiches, wallet) will naturally push the basket tighter into the tapered walls, locking it in place.
• Customize Your Height: Push it deep if ice volume is not a concern, or keep it high to accommodate tall bottles.

For Soft Coolers (Yeti Hopper Flip):

• Load It Up: Fill the cooler with ice and drinks.
• Insert Basket: Place the basket inside the empty cooler, with the handles resting on the internal ledges caused by the rigid insulation.

VI. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will the Universal Basket fit my cooler? (How to Measure)

A: The Universal Basket is incredibly versatile because it can be installed in two different orientations: Side-to-Side (the standard way) or Front-to-Back.

The Basket Dimensions:

• Width: 8 5/16" (fixed)
• Length: Adjustable from 11.75" to 18.5"

How to Check Your Cooler: Because the basket width is fixed at 8 5/16", your cooler needs at least one dimension (either length or width) that is slightly larger than this for the basket to drop in.

Standard Orientation (Side-to-Side):

• Does your cooler have an interior width (side-to-side measurement) of at least 8.5 inches?
• Does it have an interior depth (front-to-back) between 12 and 18 inches?
• Result: The basket will span front-to-back across the main opening of your cooler.

Alternate Orientation (Side-to-Side):

• Is your cooler not very deep (front-to-back)?
• You can rotate the basket 90 degrees. As long as the cooler's width (side-to-side) is between 12 and 18 inches, and the depth (front-to-back) is at least 8.5 inches, you can install the basket running side-to-side.

Pro Tip: If it doesn't fit one way, rotate it! This dual-orientation capability allows the Universal Basket to fit a massive range of cooler shapes, from small 20qt coolers to long marine chests.

Q: Will these baskets rust?

A: No. We use premium materials specifically chosen for wet environments, though they differ by model:

• The Universal Basket: This is crafted from high-grade Stainless Steel. It is naturally resistant to rust and corrosion, even without a coating. It offers a sleek, industrial look that handles water and ice with ease. The handles are made of silicon, so the metal won't scratch your cooler.
• The Fixed-Size Baskets: These are built with a steel core for strength, but are fully dipped in a thick PVC Coating. This rubberized armor completely seals the steel from moisture and prevents the metal basket from scratching the inside of your plastic cooler.

Q: Can I use more than one Universal Basket in the same cooler?

A: Yes! In fact, this is one of the best ways to maximize storage in hard-sided coolers.

• The "Bunk Bed" Stack: In deep coolers (like a Pelican 50 or Canyon Outfitter), you can install one basket deep near the ice and a second basket higher up near the rim.
• Side-by-Side: If your cooler is wide enough, you can place two baskets next to each other to create a massive dry zone.

Note: For the Yeti Hopper Flip 12 and 18 soft coolers, only one single basket will fit.

Q: Why are wire cooler baskets better than a solid plastic tray?

A: It's all about physics. Solid plastic trays block cold air from rising. Our wire grid design allows icy air to circulate freely through the basket, keeping your food refrigerator-cold. Plus, if condensation forms on the lid, it drips through the grid rather than pooling around your sandwich bread.

VII. Conclusion: Upgrade Your Adventure

You spent good money on your cooler to keep your drinks cold. It's time you invested in keeping your food dry.

Whether you have a new premium cooler, or are using a Coleman from the 70s, we've got you covered.

Stop eating soggy sandwiches. Stop fishing around in the ice slush for that lost stick of butter. Upgrade your cooler with a universal or fixed-size cooler basket today.