How to Pack a Cooler

Bringing everything but the kitchen sink just isn’t an option when you’re packing a cooler. Even a big one. Here’s how to layer it with easy access and maximum chill in mind.

First, lay pre-frozen ice packs along the bottom to help keep the cooler’s interior ice-cold all day long.

Next, build on the deep-freeze layer by adding all the grilling meats, it's best if some are already frozen. You probably won’t need these until later in the day, so packing them on the bottom makes sense.

This layer is all about puzzling together your condiments and other refrigerated items. You'll need tiny ice packs to squeeze in between these items, here's an easy way to make your own: The night before, place water-filled sponges in plastic sandwich bags and put them in the freezer. When it comes time to pack your cooler, lay the frozen-sponge baggies in between jars and bags to keep it all as cold as possible. BONUS: When it’s time to clean up, you’ll have plenty of damp sponges!