5 Things to Know About Rotomolded Coolers for 5-Day Trips

Rotomolded coolers are the only option for keeping ice for five days Cheap coolers from Coleman or Igloo will keep things cold for maybe two days in summer. Rotomolded coolers like Yeti or RTIC have thick, insulated walls that hold ice for days or even a week.

Pre-chill the cooler and keep it out of direct sun Even a high-end rotomolded cooler needs smart packing to maximize ice life. Pre-frozen drinks act as ice blocks, and shading the cooler helps a lot.

You don’t need the most expensive brand RTIC and similar knockoffs work nearly as well for much less money. Just make sure it’s rotomolded, not injection molded.

Open the cooler as little as possible Every time you open the lid, cold air escapes and warm air rushes in. Plan ahead to grab everything you need in one go.

This is not where to go cheap for a 5-day trip Spoiled food and lukewarm water ruin a trip. Spending more on a rotomolded cooler means cold cuts on day four instead of just peanut butter.