by Olivia Emisar

Created on: May 06, 2010   Last Updated: May 08, 2010

Camping requires preparation ahead of time and taking the best tools to accomplish the job with a minimum of stress or inconvenience.  We have all been warned that taking perishables camping is a bad idea.  Things like potato or egg salad are the preferred vehicles for Salmonella and a sure recipe for ruining a camping trip, but if we know how to pack properly, we can enjoy a good potato salad with no fear of getting sick. 

Experienced campers will attest that not all coolers are created equal.  A plastic bucket with the handle is almost as effective as some brand name coolers sold at big stores for very low prices.  The winner in the cooler division is the Coleman Xtreme cooler because it will keep ice in its original form for up to five days while the ambient temperature is 90 degrees or less.   The Xtreme comes in various sizes to suit your needs.  Another brand to look into is the Max Cool made by Igloo.  The reviews are excellent on this cooler as well. 

Experienced campers have reported that the ice stays cooler far longer than the five days claimed by the manufacturer.  This may be because they have stuck to a well tested method of packing and storing their perishables. 

*Make it easy on yourself 

- Make sure that your big coolers have wheels, handles and the drain i 

*Two is better than one 

- Keeping drinks and refrigerated food in separate coolers will ensure a constant temperature where it matters most: Your food supply.  

*Line and chill your coolers 

Aluminized bubble wrap was designed to insulate homes and they can be used to further insulate coolers.  The product comes in rolls that can be cut to size to line the coolers and the inside of the lid.  The product will keep cold air in and hot air out.  This will enable your cooler to maintain the desired temperature longer.  The brand name is Reflectix and can be purchased at any home improvement store.   You can use additional Relectix to cover your cooler and keep the sun’s heat from melting the ice quickly.  A cooler that is kept away from direct sun light will keep ice cooler longer. 

- Don’t drain the cold water from your cooler unless you need more space to put in newly purchased food or to add more ice.  The water is cold enough to continue keeping your food at the right temperature. 

*Know how to pack your coolers 

- Non carbonated drinks

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