Pelican Tie Down Kit Review

Exploring the Pelican Tie Down Kit: My Review

For anyone who relies on a high-quality cooler to keep their perishables safe, especially in transit, the idea of a robust tie-down system is more than just convenient; it’s essential. I recently found myself in the market for just such a solution, looking for something that could reliably secure my gear without adding unnecessary complexity. My search led me to the Pelican Tie Down Kit, a seemingly simple yet critical piece of equipment designed by Pelican to keep their ProGear Elite Coolers firmly in place.

The impetus for this purchase was a rather unnerving experience on a recent camping trip. My cooler, though packed securely, shifted significantly on a rough dirt road, making me realize the limitations of standard bungee cords and the inherent risk to both the cooler’s contents and my vehicle’s finish. I needed a more dedicated and secure method. While I briefly considered generic cargo straps, the integrated design and known reputation of Pelican products pushed me towards their specific offering.

My initial impression upon receiving the kit was one of solid, no-nonsense engineering. The components felt robust, hinting at the durability that Pelican is known for. It wasn’t a revolutionary unboxing, but rather a feeling of quiet confidence that this would perform as expected.

Real-World Testing: Putting Pelican Tie Down Kit to the Test

First Use Experience

I decided to test this tie-down kit in its intended environment: securing my Pelican ProGear Elite Cooler in the bed of my truck during a weekend excursion. The installation involved attaching the stainless steel deck plates to the truck bed’s side rails, using the provided self-tapping stainless steel screws. This process was straightforward, though I opted for a pilot hole to ensure a cleaner installation.

The conditions were fairly standard for a weekend trip: a mix of paved roads and some moderate gravel paths, with the usual bumps and jolts that come with them. The tie-down kit performed admirably, keeping the cooler locked down with zero noticeable shift. Even during a sudden stop, the cooler remained precisely where I placed it.

Ease of use was a significant factor, and the kit did not disappoint. The molded-in tie-down slots on the cooler itself made for a simple and intuitive connection with the straps. The ratcheting mechanism felt secure and easy to adjust, allowing for tension to be applied precisely where needed. There were no surprises or quirks; it just worked as advertised, which is exactly what you hope for in equipment like this.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, including multiple trips to the grocery store, a few camping weekends, and even hauling it to a remote job site, the Pelican Tie Down Kit has held up exceptionally well. It’s become a permanent fixture in my truck bed, always ready to secure the cooler.

In terms of durability, there are no signs of wear and tear on the straps, buckles, or the stainless steel deck plates. They haven’t cracked, stiffened, or shown any degradation despite constant exposure to the elements – sun, dust, and even a bit of rain. The stainless steel construction is clearly a benefit here, resisting rust and corrosion effectively.

Maintenance has been minimal, which is a huge plus. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed to keep them clean. The only caution I’d offer is to ensure the straps are dry before storing them long-term, though I haven’t experienced any mildew issues myself. Compared to the cheap bungee cords I used to rely on, which would stretch out and fray within a year, this tie-down kit feels like a lifetime investment.

Breaking Down the Features of Pelican Tie Down Kit

Specifications

The Pelican Tie Down Kit is designed to work seamlessly with Pelican ProGear Elite Coolers, leveraging their integrated tie-down slots. The kit includes two stainless steel deck plates, each accompanied by self-tapping stainless steel screws for secure mounting. These plates are crucial for providing a robust anchor point on surfaces like truck beds or boat decks.

The straps themselves are made from a durable, weather-resistant material, likely a high-tenacity nylon or polyester, designed to withstand significant tension and UV exposure. The ratcheting mechanism, which is also constructed from robust materials, allows for precise tension adjustment and a secure lock. Crucially, the design ensures that the straps and mounting points will not interfere with lid opening and closing, a common frustration with less thoughtfully designed solutions.

The application is primarily listed as Camping and Outdoor, which accurately reflects its purpose. The black color ensures it blends in unobtrusively with most gear and vehicle aesthetics. For anyone who values security and ease of use for their cooler, these specifications translate directly into peace of mind and reliable performance.

Performance & Functionality

The core function of the Pelican Tie Down Kit is to keep your cooler immobile, and in this regard, it performs exceptionally well. The ability to achieve a tight, secure fit means no more sliding or rattling during transport, regardless of the terrain. The ratcheting mechanism is both strong and easy to operate, allowing for fine-tuning of tension without over-cinching.

A significant strength is the intelligent design that ensures no interference with the cooler’s lid. This is a critical feature that many other tie-down systems overlook. The ability to open and close the cooler without having to remove or even loosen the straps is a massive convenience, saving time and hassle, especially when you need quick access to your refreshments.

The only minor area for potential improvement, and this is a subjective point, might be the length of the straps. While adequate for most standard truck beds and boat setups, for larger applications, a longer strap option could be beneficial. However, for its intended purpose with Pelican coolers, the current length is well-suited.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Pelican Tie Down Kit is a testament to function dictating form. The stainless steel deck plates are thoughtfully shaped, providing a stable base for the strap mechanism. Their brushed finish looks good and is resistant to scuffs and scratches from normal use.

Ergonomically, the ratcheting mechanism is comfortable to operate, with a substantial handle that provides good leverage. The self-tapping stainless steel screws included are a practical choice, designed to bite into materials like wood or plastic effectively. The overall feel of the kit is one of solid construction, instilling confidence in its ability to handle rough conditions.

The integration with the Pelican cooler’s molded-in tie down slots is seamless. These slots are perfectly positioned to provide optimal leverage and security without putting undue stress on the cooler’s body. The black straps also offer a clean, professional look that complements the cooler’s aesthetics.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my extended testing and the materials used, the Pelican Tie Down Kit appears built for longevity. The use of stainless steel for the deck plates and screws means corrosion is highly unlikely to be an issue, even in coastal or humid environments. The webbing of the straps is thick and feels abrasion-resistant, suggesting it will hold up to repeated loading and unloading.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. Aside from an occasional rinse to remove dirt or grime, there’s very little required to keep this kit in optimal condition. The ratcheting mechanism is sealed enough that dirt ingress is unlikely to cause significant operational issues. There are no obvious points of failure like plastic gears that could snap or springs that could weaken over time.

My experience with Pelican products in general suggests that this tie-down kit will likely outlast the cooler it’s attached to, provided it’s used within its intended parameters. It’s designed for repeated, reliable use in demanding outdoor conditions.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Pelican Tie Down Kit itself is essentially a complete system for securing your cooler. It comes with the two stainless steel deck plates, the corresponding self-tapping stainless steel screws, and the adjustable tie-down straps with integrated ratchets. There aren’t many additional accessories directly included or typically offered as customization options for this specific kit.

However, the primary “customization” comes from how and where you choose to mount the stainless steel deck plates. Depending on your vehicle or boat, you might opt for different types of fasteners if the included self-tapping screws aren’t suitable for your specific mounting surface. For instance, if mounting to a metal rail, you might prefer machine screws with nuts.

The true compatibility lies in its intended use with Pelican ProGear Elite Coolers, whose molded-in tie down slots are the intended connection points for the straps. This integrated design means you don’t need to hunt for universal brackets or adapters; it’s a purpose-built solution.

Pros and Cons of Pelican Tie Down Kit

Who Should Buy Pelican Tie Down Kit?

This tie-down kit is ideally suited for owners of Pelican ProGear Elite Coolers who frequently transport their coolers in situations where movement is a concern. This includes campers, boaters, hunters, overland travelers, and anyone who uses their truck bed or utility trailer for hauling gear. If you value security, convenience, and a product designed to work harmoniously with your existing equipment, this is a strong contender.

Conversely, if you only occasionally transport your cooler and prefer a quick, temporary solution that doesn’t involve mounting hardware, or if you own a cooler without integrated tie-down slots, this kit might be overkill. Those looking for the absolute lowest price point will also find more budget-friendly, albeit less durable or integrated, options on the market.

For those investing in this kit, I’d recommend considering where you’ll mount the stainless steel deck plates beforehand. Ensure the surface is suitable for the self-tapping stainless steel screws and that the placement will offer the best leverage without obstructing other cargo.

Conclusion on Pelican Tie Down Kit

The Pelican Tie Down Kit is a prime example of a product that excels by being purpose-built. It doesn’t try to be a universal solution; instead, it focuses on perfectly integrating with Pelican’s own high-quality coolers, offering a secure, convenient, and durable method of transport. The stainless steel construction and the thoughtful design that avoids interfering with lid operation are stand-out features that justify its price.

While the strap length could be longer for some niche applications, and the need for mounting hardware means it’s not a grab-and-go item for every cooler owner, its performance in its intended role is outstanding. For anyone serious about keeping their Pelican cooler firmly in place and protecting their investment, this tie-down kit is an excellent, highly recommended accessory. It brings a level of security and ease of use that generic alternatives simply cannot match.