Camping coolers

How long does ice last in a cooler?

It depends on the cooler, the heat and how often you open it: from about a day in a basic cooler to several days in a thick rotomolded one. Pre-chilling the cooler, packing it full and keeping it in the shade all help. The FDA says to keep cold food at 40°F or below.

What size cooler does a family need?

For a family of four, about 50 to 70 quarts covers a weekend, with room for ice. Go bigger for longer trips or more people, and add a small second cooler for drinks so the food cooler stays closed.

Hard or soft cooler?

Choose a hard cooler for multi-day trips, since it holds ice longer and doubles as a seat. A soft cooler is lighter and easier to carry, so it suits day trips and drinks.