Where to buy RTIC coolers?
There are only three official sellers of RTIC coolers:
- Amazon
- Rticoutdoors.com
- RTIC’s flagship store
Did you know? RTIC coolers are made by a process called rotomolding. Rotomolded coolers use a rotational molding method during the production process. Rotomolding is economically and environmentally friendly because it generates very little material waste, and excess materials can be reused in the process.
Image Credit: Mike P
The Three Official Sellers of RTIC Coolers
- Amazon
- Rticoutdoors.com
- RTIC’s flagship store
You might find RTIC cups and lunch bags at Walmart and other websites.
However, I don't recommend purchasing from these listings because they are from third-party suppliers.
Along with that, you won't find RTIC's excellent hard coolers at any of those places.
So, what's the difference between the three sellers? Here’s a quick look:
Amazon | Rticoutdoors.com | Flagship Store | |
|---|---|---|---|
Warranty | 1-year warranty from RTIC plus a 2- or 3-year protection plan from Amazon at an additional cost | 1-year | 1-year |
Return Policy | 30-day | 30-day* | 30-day |
Shipping | Free with Amazon Prime | Free on orders $29+ | NA |
Shipping Time | 2 to 5 day shipping | 1 to 2 week shipping | NA |
RTIC’s Flagship Store
If you live nearby or are ever in the area, you can visit the RTIC retail store at:
20510 Hempstead Rd, Houston, TX 77065
The store's visitors say it's a great place to bring kids or pick up gear directly from the source.
When I spoke with customer service online (which was super easy), they told me that all policies, prices, and sales are the same online and at the store.
At the flagship store, you might be able to snag an "open box deal," which will be a retail exclusive and not available online.
However, because most things are the same between the website and the store, I’ll be looking only at the difference between Amazon and RTIC’s websites going forward.
Amazon Vs. Rticoutdoors.com
Warranty
RTIC's warranty lasts 1 year when you buy from RTIC Amazon, the website, or the store.
In addition to providing proof of purchase, you will need to fill out a Warranty Service request online.
The company will repair or replace a broken or defective product as long as it is the manufacturer's fault.
When purchasing from Amazon, you still get this warranty, but you can also buy an additional warranty through Amazon. You can choose either a 2 or 3 year plan for an additional price.
Return Policy
There is a 30-day return policy on all RTIC orders on the company’s website and Amazon.
You might have noticed the asterisk in the chart next to the website. It’s there because if you return any orders of $500 or more to the RTIC website, you'll be charged a 15% restocking fee.
When you return items to the RTIC website, they will provide you with a prepaid return label. All you need to do is send the product back in unused condition.
To return items through RTIC’s website, the product must have been purchased through rticoutdoors.com.
You cannot use the RTIC website to return an RTIC product purchased through Amazon.
Price
Comparing 1-to-1 from Amazon to the website, RTIC’s website seems to have the better prices.
However, the difference isn’t significant.
Shopping on Amazon is easy when you have an account and all your information is stored on it. It might be worth spending the few extra bucks on Amazon for the convenience.
Sales
Like any other retailer, RTIC offers discounted prices throughout the year.
However, it seems as if the website and Amazon are not linked in terms of sales.
When one has a sale, the other might not. Check both sites for sale prices before purchasing.
Shipping
Both Amazon and RTIC Outdoors offer free shipping.
Amazon’s free shipping comes with an Amazon Prime account, while RTIC offers free shipping on orders over $29.
One benefit of Amazon is its amazingly fast shipping times. You’ll receive your cooler quickly, within a week. RTIC Outdoors, on the other hand, will ship within 1-2 weeks.
Customer Service
This might be where RTIC’s flagship store shines. Nothing beats going into a store and being able to touch and pick up the products you’re pining over.
Plus, if you have questions, RTIC employees are right there to help.
However, not all of us can fly to Texas whenever we want a cooler.
As I said, I contacted RTIC through the chat feature on its website. While I did have to wait a little while for an answer, the representative was helpful, resourceful, and very friendly.
Still, sometimes you can’t beat the convenience of Amazon. Shipping and returns are always a piece of cake through Amazon, and it's such an easy purchase process.
What About Other Stores?
Does RTIC sell its coolers at Dick’s Sporting Goods, Academy Sports, REI, Cabela's, or other big box stores?
No, RTIC sells only through its own website, store, and verified Amazon account.
This is because RTIC is dedicated to not being overpriced. By selling at only these three places, RTIC keeps its prices down.
The Best RTIC Cooler on the Market Right Now
The RTIC Ultra-Light 52 Qt hard cooler is an injection mold cooler instead of RTIC’s standard rotomolded coolers. Because it is injection molded, it is much lighter and is a customer favorite.
The Ultra-Light 52 can hold 40 lbs of ice for 10+ days when kept in proper conditions. Being 52 quarts, the cooler can hold 64 cans and is 21 lbs when empty.
It has a removable divider and basket to keep everything organized, and it's easy to carry.
All of RTIC’s coolers are made to be tough, rugged, and long-lasting. They are nonslip, lockable, and bear-resistant and they have gasket lids to keep a tight seal.
The RTIC Ultra-Light 52 is a must for any serious outdoorsman who wants a great cooler for a fair price.
FAQs
Where are RTIC coolers manufactured?
Like many other outdoor companies, RTIC coolers are manufactured in China. Some parts are made in other countries, but the production and assembly occur in China.
Are YETI and RTIC the same company?
YETI and RTIC are not the same company. They make similar products, and each has a loyal customer base. Interestingly, both companies were founded by brothers and are based in Texas. Yeti launched in 2006, while RTIC launched much later, in 2015.
What does RTIC stand for?
RTIC is pronounced “artic” and simply stands for its dedication to building the best coolers, mugs, and tumblers.
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Kendall Casey
Kendall is a freelance outdoor adventure writer passionate about educating those who wish to explore the outdoors. When Kendall isn’t writing, she is exploring the woods of the US Northeast on foot or kayak.
