Did someone say road trip? Summer is the perfect time to pack up the car and head out on the open road in search of adventure. Whether you’re going to the beach for the day or the mountains for the weekend, there’s one thing you absolutely need: a cooler that’s big enough to fit all your favorite beverages and keep them all cool.
There’s nothing worse than warm beverages on a scorching hot day, or a poorly-packed cooler that doesn’t fit everything you want to bring. Here are some tips on how to pack the cooler like a boss.
Choose the Right Size Cooler
First off, a properly-sized cooler will make all the difference when it comes to cooler performance. If you go too small, you’ll run into the obvious problem of not having enough space for your food and drinks, but you also won’t have enough room to add an adequate amount of ice, and that’s key.
It’s best to purchase a cooler that’s slightly larger than you think you will need. The extra spaces can always be filled with ice. But it’s better than packing too many items and then skimping on the ice.
Clean and Pre-Chill the Cooler
Bring your cooler inside from wherever you’ve been storing it well ahead of time so you don’t start out with a hot cooler that’s been in the garage all year. Clean and disinfect the cooler inside and out.
If you have the time, it’s a good idea to pre-chill your cooler with cold water and ice a few hours before your trip. Just be sure to dump this mixture before you start packing and replace it with fresh ice.
Pack the Cooler
When packing the cooler, you should ideally have an ice to content ratio of 2:1, meaning you’re adding twice as much ice as drinks and food. Add block ice on the bottom and then add layers of food and drink items that you need in reverse order, meaning the food you’ll be consuming last should be at the bottom, slowly working your way to the first day’s food at the top. Pack a layer of food and drink, then a layer of crushed or cubed ice, and so on.
Keep the Cooler Shaded and Closed
Once at your destination, keep your cooler in the shade and keep the lid closed when not in use. Don’t drain the meltwater – leave it in for added cooling power.
Your cooler’s performance depends heavily on how you stock it, so take your time when packing.
Let Beverage Universe Stock Your Summer Road Trip Cooler!
Ready to stock that cooler? Beverage Universe makes it easy to purchase your beverages and supplies online. We have everything you need to make your next summer trip amazing and refreshing. You are welcome to browse the site or call us today to learn about our bulk products and prices.
