For decades Muddy Madam and I have been using the same old cooler bag, and it’s been fine for a day, but that’s about it.  So for extended time away we searched for something better - so all hail its replacement, the Petromax 8ltr Cooler Bag.

Made using a water-repellent nylon fabric, the cooler bag has sturdy waterproof zips and dirt-resistant surfaces, ideal for the 4x4 owner, campers or those who simply enjoy the outdoors.

It’s practical too, on both the front and rear there are zipped pockets that provide space for small items, such as cutlery, kindling or a lighter.  The zipped pocket on the rear can be a struggle to get your hands in as it has a narrow opening, but then I have large hands!  There are also mesh pockets on both ends as well as a bottle opener fitted to the rear of the bag.

Size-wise it measures 32.5 x 26.5 x 24.5 cm on the outside and 28 x 18 x 16.5 cm on the inside, which is handy if you’re taking it shopping for cold and frozen stuff.

When it comes to lugging it around, not only does it have an extendable padded shoulder strap, but there are also two side straps on either end and a large sturdy handle on the lid.

Of course the most important part of any cool bag is how it performs, and using good quality icepacks the 8ltr version has the ability to keep food cold and fresh for up to four days, or six if you opt for the larger 24ltr version.

When empty it weighs in at just 1.3kg, and I’m reliably informed is sturdy enough for a small child to sit on (though we don’t have one to try it out).

Any Drawbacks?

While this cooler bag is a cracking piece of kit, it's worth noting that it might be a tad small for larger groups or extended trips. Additionally, unlike fabric cool bags, once empty you can’t collapse it down to make more room, so it does take up a bit of room in the car.

Our Verdict

All in all, the Petromax 8-litre cooler bag is a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts who value efficiency. It's a no-nonsense solution for keeping your grub and drinks cool without the need for power, making it ideal for camping, picnics, or even as a backup during those pesky summer power cuts. While it may not replace your electric coolbox for longer expeditions, it's certainly a handy addition to your outdoor gear collection.

There are 3 colours to choose from Dark Grey, Olive and Sand.

price: £119.95

more at » https://www.whitbyandco.co.uk/collections/petromax/products/petromax-8l-cooler-bag