Easy hacks to keep food and drinks cold this summer

Ice, ice baby!

Invest in reusable ice packs or DIY your own by freezing water in resealable bags or sturdy containers. Pro tip: Add salt to the water — it lowers the freezing point, keeping your ice icy for longer.

Frozen layers

Freeze water bottles or juice pouches to double as ice packs. Stack them strategically in your cooler — they’ll keep everything chilled and be perfectly drinkable by the time the heat kicks in.

Wrap it right

Aluminium foil isn’t just for your leftovers! Wrap containers or bottles in foil for an extra layer of insulation before popping them in your cooler or picnic basket.

Cooler corners

Pack your cooler or bag like a pro. Start with a layer of ice or frozen packs at the bottom, add your cold items, and top with more ice. Don’t forget to seal any air gaps — cool air escapes fast.

Layer your drinks

For summer gatherings, opt for layered drink dispensers. Fill the bottom with ice or frozen fruit and the top with your favorite beverage. Bonus: Frozen fruit works as edible ice cubes!

Upgrade your cooler

If your trusty cooler isn’t cutting it, line it with reflective insulation (like those shiny emergency blankets). It’s like turning your cooler into a mini fridge!

Towels as insulators

Grab a beach or kitchen towel and wrap it around your cooler or picnic bag. This added layer helps slow down heat transfer and keeps everything cooler for longer. Bonus: It doubles as a clean-up tool later.

Dry ice

For longer trips, consider using dry ice. It’s extra cold and lasts longer than regular ice. Just remember to handle it with care — use gloves and ensure ventilation when packing.

Frozen sauces and spreads

Transform sauces and spreads into ice cubes. Freeze pesto, hummus, or even butter in an ice cube tray. Pop the cubes into your cooler — they’ll keep other items cool and thaw perfectly for serving.

Keep it airtight

Warm air is your enemy! Use vacuum-sealed bags or tightly seal containers to minimise heat exposure. Every little bit helps to keep your stash icy.

Ice blocks

Instead of using small cubes, freeze large blocks of ice in pans or bowls. Bigger ice melts slower, meaning less water at the bottom of your cooler and more chill time.

Metal for the win

Use metal containers for foods like salads or desserts. They chill faster and stay cooler longer than plastic or glass.

DIY mini fridge

For small gatherings, repurpose a styrofoam box or cardboard box lined with reflective foil. Add ice packs or frozen items for a makeshift mini fridge.

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Feature image: Pexels