Description
The Dometic Recon Softside ZL 21L Cooler is the largest cooler in the Recon ZL softside range, giving you 21 L of portable storage for longer day trips, picnics and outings beyond basecamp. It holds up to 35 cans and is tall enough for upright wine bottles. At 3.2 kg empty, it combines a larger load space with shoulder-strap and hand-carry options.
A zip-free, dual-hinge lid opens from either side with one hand, while 25 mm FrostCore™ insulation helps keep chilled contents cool. The recycled 840D nylon exterior, TPU coating and reinforced base make it a practical part of a vehicle-based camping setup. Use it on its own or stack it with compatible Recon Hardside coolers when packing for a trip.
Is the Recon ZL 21L right for your trip?
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Plan the contents: Choose it when a larger food-and-drinks load or upright bottles matter more than the smallest possible pack size. Allow space for ice or reusable cooling blocks when planning a full day or weekend outing.
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Check the fit: The taller body needs more vertical space than the 17 L model. Check both the closed height and the space needed to open or remove the lid in your vehicle.
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Allow for loaded weight: the cooler weighs 3.2 kg empty. Add the weight of drinks, food and cooling blocks when deciding how far you want to carry it.
Key features
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25 mm FrostCore™ insulation: an insulated body helps hold the cold without an electrical connection. Start with chilled contents and choose the ice or cooling blocks to suit your trip.
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Zip-free access: dual-hinge latches let you open the lid from either side with a single hand. The lid can also be removed for a clear opening when loading or unloading.
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Durable coated fabric: GRS recycled 840D nylon with TPU coating provides abrasion resistance for regular packing and handling.
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Welded interior liner: the 600D polyester TPU interior is designed to contain moisture inside the cooler. Keep the unit upright and do not treat the lid as an immersion-proof closure.
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Reinforced base and stackable shape: the base sits securely on compatible Recon Hardside lids, helping you organise more capacity within a smaller cargo footprint.
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Flexible carrying options: removable magnetic handles and the included adjustable padded shoulder strap let you choose how to move your load.
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D-rings and M.O.L.L.E. loops: attachment points provide options for securing the cooler and fitting suitable accessories. Tie-down straps and accessories are separate purchases.
Dimensions and specifications
| Specification |
Details |
| Capacity |
21 L |
| Manufacturer can capacity |
35 cans; allow additional space for ice and other contents |
| External dimensions (D × W × H) |
387.35 × 295.91 × 433.32 mm |
| Net weight |
3.2 kg |
| Insulation |
25 mm FrostCore™ |
| Exterior |
GRS recycled 840D nylon with TPU coating |
| Interior liner |
600D polyester TPU; welded construction |
| Lid |
Zip-free, dual-opening and removable |
| Carry options |
Removable magnetic handles; adjustable padded shoulder strap |
| Colours |
Lichen and Silt |
| SKU by colour |
Lichen: 97000166544; Silt: 97000166545 |
| Power required |
None; passive insulated cooler |
What is included?
One Recon Softside ZL 21L cooler in your selected colour and one adjustable padded shoulder strap.
Ice blocks, drinks, food containers, hardside coolers and additional accessories are sold separately. This listing is for one softside cooler; a basket or divider is not listed as an included accessory.
Packing and common questions
How long will it keep contents cold?
Cooling time depends on the temperature of the contents, the amount of ice, the outdoor conditions and how often the lid is opened. Plan your packing around these factors; no fixed number of cooling days is promised.
Does the can count include room for ice?
Treat the can figure as a capacity guide. Ice blocks, loose ice, bottles and food containers all take up space, so your practical load will depend on the combination you pack.
Can I pack wine bottles upright?
Yes. Dometic describes the 21 L model as tall enough for wine bottles. Check your actual bottle shape and leave room for cooling blocks.
Lifestyle photographs may show other Recon sizes or colours, multiple coolers, food, drinks and camping equipment. The selected colour applies to the single cooler supplied.
Compare camping cooler sizes, explore the Dometic range or ask Cosy Camp for help choosing your cooler.
