The Venn diagram of those who liked Tetris growing up and overlanding as adults finally has some clarify of that middle cross-over space, thanks to Dometic’s latest launch: a new line of stackable, modular coolers and accessories designed specifically for car camping and overlanding. Lovers of organization and overlanding, this launch is specifically for you. Read on to learn more about the Dometic Recon Series.
The Recon Series was developed as a whole new ecosystem, one designed to squeeze as much usable space from SUVs and overlanding rigs as possible. The individual hard-sided coolers are built to stack on top of one another, using non-stick feet and corresponding depressions in the lids to nest securely on top of each other. The folding handles on the side of each cooler tuck away discreetly into recesses in the sides of each cooler, enhancing side-by-side packing.
Dometic acquired overlanding brand Front Runner in 2021, and it seems to have taken a few cues from the overlanding experts on the FR team. The Recon Series takes design cues from the popular Wolf Pack Pro boxes, which are also engineered to stack and nest with one another. The Recon Series builds upon this by adding the cooler element to the stackable design ethos.
Not satisfied with reviving the concept of stacking hard sided coolers (Coleman had Party Stackers a decade ago, but discontinued them), Dometic has included soft-sided accessories and options into the Recon ecosystem as well. The new line includes three hard-sided, injection molded coolers — which range between 16 and 69 liters (18 and 100 cans without ice) — and three soft-sided coolers, as well. These are available in 12, 17 and 21-liter sizes. Dometic also launched a Recon Tote along with its hard and soft coolers.
There are more functional features we’d be remiss not to mention: On the hard-sided coolers, the lids can open in multiple directions, in case you’re trying to grab a beverage from an awkward angle. The latches also function as bottle openers. Further down the line, Dometic says it plan to offer a spigot that swaps in for the drain plug, transforming the cooler into a portable water jug full of icy cold delight.
The soft coolers are designed to squeeze into tight spaces, and use zipper-free lids with dual-hinge latches for more convenient opening options. The reinforced base and abrasion-resistant 840D nylon TPU-coated outer shell ensure these rugged coolers will last for years to come.
The Recon line is available now, with all coolers retailing between US$225 and $425.
