Using Coolers: Tips and Tricks If you are the kind who indulges in a lot of outdoor trips then it is advisable to invest in a good cooler as it is an essential part of any picnic or outing such as a trip to an amusement park, a sporting event or a trip to the beach. In every outing having cold water and drinks is essential and therefore these apparatus are handy for that sole purpose.
In case you are going for a long trip, it is best to carry two coolers, one for the beverages and water while the other one for the food. This is because the beverage cooler will be opened frequently as everyone will be sipping into cold water as well as drinks, this causes the cold air to escape. On the other hand, coolers storing food will remain colder for long as they won’t be opened as frequently as the beverage cooler. In a long trip, it is important that the insides of the cooler remain cold so that the food doesn’t get spoilt and remains fresh. You could also have a separate small cooler to store only ice which can be used to replenish ice in beverages.
When you are storing food inside the cooler, remember these tips:
Always wash all the perishable items thoroughly
Once foodstuff is washed, put them into separate bags and seal them in order to prevent cross contamination
Always insist on packing easy to assemble foods so that it doesn’t become a mess by the time you reach your destination
You can make use of a block of ice which will keep the food cold for a longer time.
Always place the ice packs or ice block at the bottom of the cooler
Perishable items should be put directly from the refrigerator into the cooler
Food in a full cooler will remain cool for longer than in a half empty cooler
While using soft coolers, don’t put loose ice; instead buy ice packs which are available in a number of sizes. The reason for not putting loose ice is simple, some of the ice have sharp edges which can cause the lining of the cooler to be ripped. Furthermore, ice tends to melt faster when loose thus making the cooler heavier to carry. You should take good care of your cooler to prolong its life. You should know that coolers can be used for keeping food cold as well as warm. All you got to do it heat your food and wrap it up in tin foil. Now place them in the cooler and put hot packs above the food. If there is any space left, put inside warmed towels. Thus one can see that coolers are essential for picnics and outings and therefore they should be of the finest quality.