Yeti Hopper Flip 12 vs 18

Yeti Hopper Flip 12 vs 18 – Which is Better?

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Yeti Hopper Flip is one of the leading softshell ice coolers for camping. It comes in multiple versions, mainly serving different cooling capacities. Yeti Hopper Flip 12 and 18 represent large opening coolers for camping and outdoor use.

Similar at a first glance, these ice coolers have different cooling capacities and different weights which recommend them for different uses. All those carrying the ice coolers over long distances such as fishermen or backpackers favor the smaller Yeti Flip 12 while those who camp in the same spot or who don’t need to carry the ice cooler over long distances favor the Yeti Flip 18.

Yeti Hopper Flip 12 vs 18

Yeti Hopper Flip 12 vs 18 – Which is Better for You?

Yeti Hopper Flip 12 Characteristics

  • Dryshell waterproof fabric
  • Closed-cell rubber foam insulation
  • Waterproof zipper
  • Ice capacity – 16lbs
  • 13 cans capacity
  • Available in 6 colors
  • 3-year warranty

Yeti Hopper Flip 18 Characteristics

  • Dryshell waterproof fabric
  • Closed-cell rubber foam insulation
  • Waterproof zipper
  • Ice capacity – 24lbs
  • 20 cans capacity
  • Available in 6 colors
  • 3-year warranty

Size

The size of the Yeti Hopper Flip ice coolers is considerably different. The Yeti Hopper Flip 18 is almost 4 inches taller than the Yeti Hopper Flip 12. This means it has a larger storage capacity but it also takes up more space inside a car.

Hatchback vehicle owners might find it harder to fit inside the trunk compared to the smaller Flip 12. This height difference is shorter inside the ice cooler, however. The Hopper Flip 12 measures 11 inches in inside height while the Hopper Flip 18 measures 14 ¼ inches on the inside.

Apparent height differences are not as considerable for storage purposes as they seem from the outside. However, the extra size of the Hopper Flip 18 makes it the solution for extra storage.

Storage

The Yeti Hopper Flip 12 stores 13 cans (not 12 as its name suggests) while the Yeti Hopper Flip 18 stores 20 cans. The storage space is the main difference between these Yeti coolers. The Hopper Flip 18 stores nearly twice as many cans as the Hopper Flip 12. This means there are many reasons why the Flip 18 is recommended for longer camping periods.

Outside cans, users can also store food in these ice coolers. Campers benefit from Yeti-standard accessories which can help keep cans and food cold for days. Most users say these coolers perform well keeping ice from melting and drinks cold for up to a few days.

Weight

The Yeti Hopper Flip 12 weighs 3.1lbs while the Yeti Hopper Flip 18 weighs 5.1lbs. This means the weight difference is also considerable, alongside the actual size of these ice coolers. This is the weight without the added drinks which may become an issue for solo campers or those who don’t want to use too much muscle power to move the coolers.

This portrays ideal uses for these ice coolers as the lighter Hopper Flip 12 is among the lightest portable camping ice coolers whole the Hopper Flip 18 is primarily made for extra storage space.

Accessories

There’s a long list of accessories to consider for both the Hopper Flip 12 and the Hopper Flip 18. Most users say these accessories are the main reasons to get a Yeti Hopper Flip ice cooler.

Hitchpoint Grid – Hoops for attachments

Hitchpoint Grids are the 2 front belts with loops that are used for anchoring or to attach other accessories on the ice coolers. When traveling by car, these belts with loops can be used to secure the ice coolers inside the car and tie them down which prevents the ice coolers from tumbling. They are also used to attach a series of other accessories such as bottle openers.

Yeti ice

Yeti Ice is a small ice pack that increases the efficiency of ice cooling. They can extend the cooling time by at least 24 hours making them the ideal solutions for just about any type of camper.

Yeti Ice packs are available in different sizes. Campers can choose between 1lbs, 2lbs, and 4lbs Yet Ice packs. The smaller versions are ideal for the Hopper Flip 12 while the larger versions are ideal for the Hopper Flip 18. All of these ice packs work on the same principles. You will them with water and add them to the fridge. They are added on top of other ice cubes to increase cooling efficiency.

Bottle openers

Another top accessory (sold separately) is the Yeti bottle opener. This small all-metal piece can be attached to the loops of the front straps of the Yeti ice coolers. They replace classic bottle openers or bad alternative ideas such as opening bottles using car doors. These bottle openers aren’t offered as standard with the Hopper Flip 12 or the Hopper Flip 18. They are purchased separately.

Rambler Bottle Sling

If you want to have a bottle of water nearby without it being cold as ice you need the Rambler Bottle Sling. This accessory is ideal for hands-free water bottle carrying. It connects to the outer shell of these ice coolers storing a durable camping water bottle. Quick hydration is important when spending days outdoors camping in the sun.

HydroLock zipper

Another top characteristic of the Hopper Flip 12 and Hopper Flip 18 is the built-in waterproof and ice cooler-proved zipper. This is the largest zipper in the industry meaning it’s also durable. But the large zipper is also performing well in keeping cold air trapped inside. The zipper runs around the ice coolers facilitating a large-mouth opening for easy access.

Durability

Both ice coolers are guaranteed for 3 years by warranty. But users say they last even longer as they are made with some of the best materials in the class. From EVA foam inside materials to waterproof and leak-proof shell materials on the outside, the ice coolers perform at a high standard.

Ideal uses and key differences

There’s not much between these 2 ice coolers when it comes to key differences in performance and durability. But the key uses recommend them for different purposes.

  • 1-2 people – the Yeti Hopper Flip 12 is ideal for solo campers or couples. It provides a compact design with a 13-cans storage capacity.
  • 2-4 people – the Yeti Hopper Flip 18 is ideal for couples, small families, or small groups. It offers a larger storage capacity that almost doubles the cooling capacity of the Hopper Flip 12.
  • 1-day trips – ideal for short day trips, the Yeti Hopper Flip 12 does its job when it comes to portability.
  • 2-4 day trips – more water, more food, and better hydration are key for multi-day camping. This is where the Yeti Hopper 18 comes in as it has the inner volume capacity for multi-day camping or outdoor trips.

Final words

Both the Yeti Hopper Flip 12 and the Yeti Hopper Flip 18 are durable and efficient. These are some of the most practical portable camping ice coolers as they come with easy access, top materials, and a long list of compatible accessories. There’s no difference in use or durability with them.

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However, the main differences lie in cooling capacity. Solo campers or couples out for a day only need the Yeti Hooper Flip 12. Groups and small families or even solo campers out for a few days in the outback need more cooling capacity which recommends the Yeti Hopper Flip 18 as the ideal cooler.

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