5 Things to Know About Keeping Ice Cream Cold in a Cooler

Ice cream won’t last more than three to four hours in a cooler, even with perfect packing. In 90-degree weather, it is a countdown timer.

The huge temperature difference between ice cream (around -20°F) and the outside air causes it to melt faster than you expect. A good cooler slows this down but does not stop it.

After an hour or two, the edges will soften. After three hours, the ice cream will be soup.

For a day trip, skip regular ice and use dry ice instead. Regular ice melts fast and creates a slushy mess.

The most reliable plan is to eat the ice cream within the first stop of your trip. That is the only way to guarantee it stays solid.