Only time I found where a uber-hightek/$$$ cooler would be needed for what I do was back when I'd go to BC in the 90's and be away from an ice supply for multiple days. Before a big trip now we load up 2/3 160qt Igloo's with ice from Costco ($2/20# bag) and I threaten to wrap the knuckles with the wooden shampoo of whoever phucks with the ice coolers during the trip (generally my kid)!!

I do have a 45qt Cascade Mtn Tek that was given to me. Great boat/truck/food cooler, but overkill as mentioned multi tims prior. The Igloo's, if treated properly and kept stuffed with ice perform just fine for what we do (7 days at a time, adding ice on the 4th day). I can spend my cash on something way neater than a cooler..but used or free..that's a different story!