Is it safe and smart to dry brine a turkey in a cooler?

Yes, it’s safe and actually a good idea — as long as you keep the turkey cold. A cooler holds the bird below 40°F beautifully with ice packs or in a cold garage, and gives you more space than a fridge shelf. Just leave the lid cracked for airflow so the skin crisps. A cooler is the pro move for smoking or frying a bird.