Coolers & Ice Chests Outdoor Cooking & Eating Yard, Garden & Outdoor Living

The size of cooler or ice chest you need depends on how many people you will be feeding and how much you will be taking with you. A twenty quart cooler is usually enough for two people. Three people may need something a little larger, like 25-40 quarts, while four people would need 50-70 quarts. For over four people, you are better off just buying the big 150 quart model.

Ice chests and coolers come in a variety of materials. The cheapest and least durable are the styrofoam coolers. These are usually intended to be used once and disposed of, so they tend to fall apart quickly. Plastic ice chests are usually the best choice as far as durability and ease of carrying. Metal ice chests may be sturdier, but they are very difficult to move when full of food and drinks. Plastic coolers usually come with amenities like handles or wheels that make it easier to pull them. Some coolers and ice chests also have valves at the bottom to drain excess water and make cleanup quicker.