You’re geared up, your Can-Am Outlander 700 is gassed up, and the trail is calling your name. There’s just one problem: the lukewarm water sloshing in your backpack and the sad, squished sandwich you packed. A great day of riding deserves better.
You agree that a long day on the trails is infinitely better with ice-cold drinks and fresh food, right? But strapping a cheap cooler to your rack with a frayed bungee cord is a recipe for disaster. It’s noisy, insecure, and one good bump away from scattering your lunch all over the trail.
We promise this guide will solve that problem for good. We’re going to walk you through everything you need to know about the perfect can am outlander 700 cooler setup. No more guesswork, no more lost lunches.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll cover how to choose the right cooler for your needs, master the art of secure mounting (including the game-changing LinQ system), and share pro-level tips to keep your ice frozen for days. Let’s get your rig dialed in.
Why a Dedicated Cooler Setup is a Game-Changer for Your Outlander 700
Let’s be honest, a cooler is more than just a box for your drinks. On the trail, it’s your mobile kitchen, your hydration station, and a key piece of gear that can make or break a long ride. A proper setup offers serious advantages.
One of the primary benefits of a can am outlander 700 cooler that is properly mounted is security. When you’re navigating rocky climbs and rutted-out trails, the last thing you want to worry about is your cooler becoming a projectile. A secure cooler stays put, period.
Beyond security, it’s about performance and convenience. Modern, high-quality coolers can keep ice for days, not hours. This means you can extend your adventures from a single afternoon to a full weekend camping trip without resupplying. It’s about having a cold water on a hot day and knowing your food is safely chilled.
Choosing the Right Can-Am Outlander 700 Cooler: Hard vs. Soft Coolers
The first step in this journey is picking the right tool for the job. Your choice largely comes down to two categories: hard-sided and soft-sided coolers. Each has its place on the Outlander 700.
Hard-Sided Coolers (Rotomolded)
When you picture a serious off-road cooler, you’re probably thinking of a rotomolded cooler. These are the heavy-duty champions of the cooler world, built to withstand incredible abuse.
Pros:
- Incredible Ice Retention: Thick, insulated walls mean these can keep ice for multiple days, even in direct sunlight.
- Extreme Durability: They are often bear-resistant and can handle being dropped, banged around, and used as an extra seat or step.
- Secure Sealing: Heavy-duty rubber latches and freezer-style gaskets lock in the cold and keep dust and water out.
Cons:
- Weight and Bulk: All that durability comes at a cost. They are heavy even when empty and take up significant rack space.
- Higher Cost: They are a premium product with a price tag to match.
Soft-Sided Coolers
Soft-sided coolers have come a long way from the flimsy lunchboxes of the past. Modern versions use high-tech closed-cell foam insulation and waterproof shells, making them a fantastic option for many riders.
Pros:
- Lightweight & Portable: They are significantly lighter and easier to carry to and from your ATV.
- Flexibility: They can be squeezed into tighter spots and are collapsible for easy storage when not in use.
- Accessibility: Many feature flip-top lids or wide-mouth openings for quick access on the trail.
Cons:
- Less Ice Retention: While good for a full day, they typically won’t hold ice as long as a hard-sided cooler.
- Less Durable: The fabric exterior is more susceptible to punctures and tears than a rotomolded shell.
Key Features to Look For
Regardless of type, look for these features:
- LinQ Compatibility: This is the most important feature for a Can-Am owner. A cooler designed for the LinQ system offers the most secure, integrated fit.
- Tie-Down Points: If not using LinQ, ensure the cooler has robust, molded-in slots for straps.
- Drain Plug: A good, leak-proof drain plug is essential for easily removing melted water without unpacking everything.
The Ultimate Can-Am Outlander 700 Cooler Guide to Mounting & Installation
Now that you’ve chosen your cooler, let’s talk about the most critical part: securing it to your machine. This section covers how to can am outlander 700 cooler installation, focusing on both the factory system and universal methods.
The Power of the Can-Am LinQ System
The Can-Am LinQ system is a revolutionary quick-attach system for accessories. If you’re serious about your gear, using a LinQ-compatible cooler is the absolute best way to go. It provides a tool-less, rock-solid connection directly to your Outlander’s racks.
It works via specific mounting points on your ATV’s racks and corresponding latches on the accessory. You simply position the cooler and flip a lever to lock it down. It’s fast, simple, and incredibly secure.
Step-by-Step Installation Using LinQ Mounts
If your cooler is LinQ-ready, installation is a breeze.
- Clean Your Rack: Start by wiping down the surface of your front or rear rack to ensure there’s no dirt or debris that could interfere with the connection.
- Position the Cooler: Align the LinQ latches on the bottom of your cooler with the LinQ ports on your Outlander’s rack. You’ll feel it settle into place.
- Engage the Levers: Firmly press down on the LinQ levers on the cooler. You should hear and feel a solid “click” as they lock into the rack.
- Perform a Tug Test: Give the cooler a firm shake from all sides. It should feel like it’s part of the machine, with zero wobble or play. That’s it—you’re ready to ride.
DIY & Universal Mounting Solutions
Don’t have a LinQ cooler? No problem. You can still secure a standard cooler safely, it just requires a bit more effort.
The key is using high-quality straps. We highly recommend cam buckle straps or small ratchet straps over standard bungee cords. Bungees can stretch and break, while straps allow you to cinch the cooler down tightly.
Run the straps through the cooler’s tie-down slots and around the bars of your rack. Crisscrossing the straps in an “X” pattern provides the most stability. Tighten them until the cooler cannot shift in any direction.
Common Problems with Can-Am Outlander 700 Cooler Setups (And How to Fix Them)
Even with the best gear, you can run into issues. Here are some common problems with can am outlander 700 cooler setups and how to troubleshoot them on the fly.
Problem: My Cooler Won’t Stay Cold!
This is the most frequent complaint. The fix is usually in the preparation. Always pre-chill your cooler by filling it with sacrificial ice or ice packs the night before your trip. This cools the insulation itself. Also, use a mix of block ice (which melts slower) and cubed ice, and ensure your cooler is as full as possible to minimize air space.
Problem: The Cooler Rattles and Shifts on the Trail.
A noisy, shifting cooler is distracting and unsafe. If you’re using the LinQ system, double-check that the levers are fully engaged. If they are and it still moves, inspect the LinQ ports on your rack for damage. For strap-down coolers, the straps have likely stretched slightly. Stop and retighten them. A small piece of rubber matting under the cooler can also help absorb vibrations.
Problem: The Lid Gasket Isn’t Sealing Properly.
A poor seal lets cold air out and warm air in. First, check the gasket for any dirt, sand, or debris and clean it thoroughly. Also, make sure you aren’t over-packing the cooler, which can prevent the lid from closing flush. If the gasket is cracked or deformed, you can usually order a replacement from the manufacturer.
Can-Am Outlander 700 Cooler Best Practices for Peak Performance
Want to get the most out of your investment? Follow these pro-level can am outlander 700 cooler tips and best practices.
The 2:1 Ice-to-Goods Ratio
For maximum cooling power and ice retention, aim for a ratio of two parts ice to one part food and drinks. This might seem like a lot of ice, but it’s the secret to multi-day performance. A well-insulated cooler packed with this ratio can be a portable freezer.
Pack in Layers for Efficiency
Think strategically when you pack.
- Start with a layer of ice on the bottom.
- Add your first layer of items (drinks, frozen meats).
- Add another layer of ice, filling in all the gaps.
- Place more sensitive food items (sandwiches, vegetables) on top.
- Finish with one last layer of ice.
This method keeps everything consistently cold and ensures the items you need most often (drinks) are easy to grab without digging around.
Keep it Closed and in the Shade
This sounds simple, but it makes a huge difference. Every time you open the lid, you let cold air out. Try to limit openings and be quick when you do need something. Whenever you stop for a break, try to park your Outlander so the cooler is in the shade of a tree.
Your Can-Am Outlander 700 Cooler Care Guide
A quality cooler is an investment that will last for years with proper maintenance. This simple can am outlander 700 cooler care guide will keep it in prime condition.
Cleaning and Deodorizing
After every trip, wash your cooler out with mild dish soap and warm water. For stubborn smells from fish or spilled food, create a solution of water and baking soda or diluted white vinegar, let it sit for a few hours, and then rinse thoroughly.
The most important step is to air dry it completely with the lid and drain plug open. This prevents mildew and funky odors from developing during storage.
Long-Term Storage Tips
When you’re not on the trail, store your cooler in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight, which can degrade the plastic and seals over time. Leaving the drain plug slightly open prevents pressure buildup and allows any residual moisture to escape.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Cooler Use
Being a responsible rider extends to your gear. For a more sustainable can am outlander 700 cooler approach, consider using reusable freezer packs instead of constantly buying bags of ice. Investing in a high-quality, durable cooler that lasts a lifetime is also more eco-friendly than replacing a cheap one every season. And of course, always pack out everything you pack in.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Can-Am Outlander 700 Cooler
What size cooler is best for the Outlander 700?
For most day trips or single overnight stays, a cooler in the 20-35 quart range is the sweet spot. It offers enough capacity for food and drinks for one or two people without being excessively bulky or heavy for the ATV’s racks.
Can I use a regular cooler with the LinQ system?
Yes, you can! While a native LinQ cooler is the most seamless option, Can-Am and other aftermarket companies sell LinQ adapter plates. These plates bolt to the bottom of most standard hard coolers, allowing them to connect directly to your machine’s LinQ ports.
How do I stop my cooler from smelling bad?
The key is immediate cleaning and thorough drying. Never store a cooler wet with the lid closed. For persistent odors, a deep clean with a mild bleach solution (a tablespoon of bleach per gallon of water) followed by a thorough rinse and air dry in the sun will eliminate most bacteria causing the smell.
Is a rotomolded cooler really worth the extra money?
It depends on your use. If you are a casual rider who just needs to keep drinks cold for an afternoon, a high-quality soft cooler might be perfect. However, if you go on multi-day trips, ride in extreme heat, or demand maximum durability, the performance and longevity of a rotomolded cooler are absolutely worth the investment.
A great cooler setup isn’t a luxury; it’s a fundamental upgrade that enhances every single ride. By choosing the right cooler, mounting it securely, and using smart packing and care techniques, you’re setting yourself up for better, longer, and more enjoyable adventures.
Now you have the knowledge to get your Outlander 700 perfectly equipped. Stay hydrated, eat well, and enjoy the freedom of the trail.
Happy trails from all of us at FatBoysOffroad!
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