Patrik Orcutt 09.03.24
Are you tired of the traditional, boxy-designed lunch coolers that are always taking up so much space in your bag or in your truck? So was I when I started bringing my lunch to work every day this past spring in Alabama. You try and save a little money by bringing your own lunch to work, but find that you look kind of goofy always walking around with a plastic cooler in your hands. I know most people would just leave their cooler in their truck or car, but here in Alabama, it gets so hot out that whatever you leave in your car might become broiled by the time you get to it. Step into the Bellroy Cooler Caddy, a modern cooler designed for those looking to have less stuff to carry around.
Bellroy, founded in 2010 in Australia, is a brand that has become synonymous with thoughtful design and sustainable practices in the world of everyday carry items. The brand’s name is a blend of “Bells Beach,” a renowned surf spot in Victoria, and “Fitzroy,” a creative hub in Melbourne, reflecting its roots in both nature and urban life. Bellroy began with a focus on creating slim, functional wallets that addressed the bulky, inefficient designs prevalent at the time. Over the years, the company has expanded its product range to include bags, tech accessories, and travel gear, all crafted with a commitment to sustainability and ethical production. Bellroy’s use of premium, eco-friendly materials and its emphasis on smart, user-centric design have earned it a loyal following worldwide, making it a leader in the accessories market.
Cooler Coverage on AllOutdoor
The Bellroy Cooler Caddy 6L was purchased by myself and Bellroy has not been allowed to preview this review prior to its publication. I have been using the Bellroy Cooler Caddy 6L for the past 5 months practically every day to keep my lunch cool at work or to hold a few beers while on the golf course and beach.
Specifications – Bellroy Cooler Caddy 6L
- Capacity: 6 liters
- Dimensions: 21 x 37 x 15 cm
- Weight: 155 Grams
- Materials:
- Outer fabric: Recycled woven fabric made from 100% recycled PET plastic bottles
- Lining: Waterproof, food-safe PEVA lining
- Insulation: Foam padding for thermal insulation
- Design Features:
- Wide zippered opening for easy access
- Collapsible design for compact storage
- Comfortable padded carry handle
- Cooling Performance: Maintains cooling for up to 4-5 hours with ice packs (performance may vary based on external temperature)
- Country of Origin: Philippines
- MSRP: $60
Design and Aesthetics – Bellroy Cooler Caddy 6L
One of the first things you notice about the Bellroy Cooler Caddy 6L is its sleek and minimalistic design. Unlike traditional bulky coolers, this caddy is crafted with the kind of clean lines and smooth curves that Bellroy is known for. The Cooler Caddy is available in a variety of muted colors and colorful options, making it easy to match with other outdoor gear or carry it as a standalone piece without drawing too much attention.
Despite its small size, the 6L capacity is surprisingly sufficient for a day’s worth of snacks, sandwiches, and beverages. It’s a perfect size for picnics, day trips, or even bringing lunch to work. The caddy can comfortably hold up to six cans of soda or beer, along with some ice packs to keep them cool.
Materials and Durability – Bellroy Cooler Caddy 6L
Bellroy has a reputation for using high-quality, sustainable materials, and the Cooler Caddy 6L is no different. The outer fabric is made from recycled water bottles. This fabric is not only eco-friendly but also water-resistant, ensuring that your contents stay dry even in light rain or when placed on damp surfaces. The material feels durable to the touch, giving you confidence that the caddy can withstand regular use without showing signs of wear.
Inside, the caddy is lined with a waterproof, food-safe PEVA lining that helps to keep spills contained and makes cleaning up easy. The insulation is thick enough to keep items cool for several hours, though the exact duration will depend on the external temperature and the use of ice packs. The combination of these materials results in a cooler that is not only functional but also durable and easy to maintain.
Functionality and Practicality – Bellroy Cooler Caddy 6L
The Bellroy Cooler Caddy 6L is designed with practicality in mind. The main compartment is spacious and easy to access thanks to the wide zippered opening. This makes it easy to pack and unpack, whether you’re loading in bulky containers or small snack packs. The zippers are sturdy and glide smoothly, which is important when you’re in a hurry or have your hands full.
One of the standout features of the Cooler Caddy is its collapsible design. When not in use, the caddy can be folded down flat, making it easy to store in a drawer or pack in a backpack. This is a significant advantage over traditional rigid coolers that take up a lot of space even when empty. The Cooler Caddy’s flexibility also makes it more versatile in terms of packing, as it can fit into a variety of bag shapes and sizes.
Cooling Performance – Bellroy Cooler Caddy 6L
While the Bellroy Cooler Caddy 6L is not designed to replace a heavy-duty cooler, it performs admirably in keeping your items cool for several hours. The insulation is effective at maintaining a chilled environment, especially when used with ice packs. In moderate temperatures, you can expect your drinks to stay cool for up to 4-5 hours, which is sufficient for most casual outings. If you’re planning a longer day out, you might want to look for a different cooler or bring more ice packs?
The caddy’s compact size also works in its favor in terms of cooling efficiency. Because there’s less space to cool compared to larger coolers, the internal temperature remains more consistent, especially if you pack the caddy full. However, it’s important to manage your expectations—this caddy is best suited for short trips rather than all-day adventures in the sun.
Sustainability and Environmental Impact – Bellroy Cooler Caddy 6L
Bellroy’s commitment to sustainability is evident in this cooler. The use of recycled materials not only reduces waste but also minimizes the environmental impact of producing the cooler. The caddy is also built to last, meaning it’s less likely to end up in a landfill compared to cheaper, lower-quality alternatives. Additionally, the compact, foldable design promotes less wasteful storage and packaging. This attention to sustainability extends beyond just the materials, reflecting a holistic approach to environmentally responsible design.
Final Thoughts – Bellroy Cooler Caddy 6L
The Bellroy Cooler Caddy 6L is a well-designed, high-quality cooler that excels in portability, functionality, and style. While it may not be the best choice for all-day adventures in extreme heat, it’s perfect for shorter outings and everyday use. Its compact size, combined with Bellroy’s signature minimalist design, makes it a standout option in the crowded cooler market. Stay tuned for a future article where I compare The Cooler Caddy directly with its competition from YETI.
