6 best ice pack for coolers

Ice packs for coolers are essential accessories for maintaining the temperature of food and beverages while camping, hiking, or engaging in various outdoor activities. These ice packs are designed to keep the contents of your cooler cold and fresh for an extended period.Here's what you need to know about them:

  1. Purpose: Ice packs are used to maintain a low temperature inside a cooler. They work by absorbing heat from the surrounding environment, preventing the contents of the cooler from warming up too quickly.

  2. Types of Ice Packs:

    • Gel Packs: Gel-filled ice packs are commonly used in coolers. They remain flexible even when frozen and can conform to the shape of your cooler's contents.
    • Hard Ice Packs: These are rigid, non-flexible ice packs that are durable and long-lasting. They are ideal for coolers with dividers or shelves.
    • Reusable Ice Packs: Most ice packs are reusable, which means you can refreeze them after each use.
  3. Size and Shape: Ice packs come in various sizes and shapes to fit different coolers and containers. Some are designed to fit specific cooler models, while others are more versatile.

  4. Material: Ice packs are typically made from plastic or polyethylene. These materials are chosen for their ability to withstand freezing temperatures and repeated use.

  5. Duration of Cooling: The duration of cooling provided by ice packs varies depending on their size, insulation in the cooler, and external temperature conditions. Larger packs tend to last longer.

  6. Preparation: Before using ice packs, it's essential to freeze them thoroughly in a freezer. It's a good practice to keep several ice packs in the freezer, so you always have a frozen one ready when needed.

  7. Placement: Distribute ice packs evenly within your cooler, placing them on top of and underneath your food and drinks. This ensures even cooling and maximizes the efficiency of the ice packs.

  8. Maintenance: After use, clean and dry your ice packs before returning them to the freezer. This helps prevent bacterial growth and ensures they're ready for your next outing.

  9. Benefits: Ice packs are a convenient and mess-free alternative to traditional ice cubes or crushed ice. They don't create water as they melt, so your food and beverages stay dry.

  10. Considerations: Keep in mind that ice packs have limitations in extremely hot conditions. It's a good idea to combine them with other cooling methods like pre-chilled items, insulation, or additional ice if you plan to be outdoors for an extended period in high temperatures.

In summary, ice packs for coolers are essential tools for outdoor enthusiasts, campers, and hikers. They help keep your food and drinks at a safe and enjoyable temperature, making your outdoor adventures more comfortable and convenient.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best ice pack for coolers on the market
  

Ice Pack for Lunch Box - Freezer Packs - Original Cool Pack | Slim & Long-Lasting Ice Packs for your Lunch or Cooler Bag (Set of 4)

Healthy Packers

Based on 11 reviews Check latest price
  • Slim Lightweight and Long Lasting - Set of 4 slim, reusable and versatile hard gel ice packs. Each ice pack measures 7 x 4.7 x 0.5 inches. Keep your insulated cooler bag freezer-cold for longer!
  • Super Versatile - Perfect chillers for everyday use in lunchboxes, breastmilk bags, bento boxes and coolers. Great for kids to take to school in their totes, adults to the office or for outdoor camping. Keep your to go food containers cold and dry.
  • Safe and Durable - Our Cool Packs are made with 100% BPA-Free Non-Toxic materials. They stay cool as ice for many hours and keep your food fresh and your body fit. These small babies sure pack a punch!
  • Quality Guaranteed-Try the best ice packs available risk-free. You won't regret it. Not fully satisfied? Shoot us an email and we'll fully refund you no questions asked.
  • TSA Disclaimer: Healthy Packers Long lasting Cool packs can be brought through TSA security checkpoints when fully frozen or otherwise stored in checked baggage

User questions & answers

Question: I see two different dimensions listed. Are these 5” x
Answer: There is no XL to my knowledge. They sell 3x lg(meaning 3(times) large packs). Dont worry, i was trying to find the water volume for XL too!
Question: Are these TSA approved
Answer: I just did a test: yes, but just barely in fresh water. I think there is a small amount of air in the frozen packs that keeps them buoyant.
Question: How long do these stay frozen in a cooler
Answer: aI believe what they mean is that the latent heat point for the melting phase (transitioning from solid to liquid or liquid to solid without changing temperature) is 18 Degrees F, whereas pure water (note the pure) transitions at 32 Degrees F. This is a big deal because the energy difference between 18 and 32 means it will absorb a lot more heat for a relative temperature rise. 32 to 40 is only 8 degrees whereas 18 to 40 is 22 degrees, almost 3x the amount.
Question: is that water inside of it? or Gel
Answer: Mine have stayed frozen for approximately 9-10 hrs. I left food in the cooler,which was well-insulated, and it which was still cold when I got home. This was kept in office setting with temps in room in the 70’s.

Igloo Maxcold Ice Block

Igloo

Based on 6 reviews Check latest price
  • Provides localized intense cold for items in need of quick cooling
  • Eliminates mess of melting ice
  • Reusable block extends cooling performance
  • Packaging may vary

User questions & answers

Question: Where are these made
Answer: Thank you for your Question! Our stock is Made in El Salvador. The Product UPC of our supply is 034223251970. Igloo has updated their product label. We can only be certain of our inventory. Thank you again, 1 OM
Question: How long do these say frozen if being used in an insulated bag in the summer time? Thanks in advance
Answer: I used 2 of these, along with a couple other frozen ice packs. After an 8hr work day as a plumber riding around in my van the packs would still be slightly frozen. The quality of the bag will play a big factor.
Question: Is this price for 1 pack of 2, or 1 single block? The package quantity says 1, but the picture shows a pack of
Answer: $1.99 is for one ice pack
Question: Is there a trick when freezing to prevent them from bulging out of shape
Answer: The ice pack develops a pointed bulge which looks like it might bust or at least reduce its life. They are not suppose to do this.

Set of Cooler Shock Ice Packs - high Performance 18 Degree Fahrenheit Using Phase Change Science to Achieve 8-10 Hour Cooling - Avoid spoilage so You can eat Your Lunch! Safe US Made

Cooler Shock

Based on 11 reviews Check latest price
  • Safe USA sourced formula, no mystery chemicals from China - Large high-performance reusable lunch pack fits all typical lunch boxes and school lunch boxes - 1 of 3 sizes available, click Cooler Shock at top of page for full line
  • Uses phase change science to cause pack to be at 18 degrees Fahrenheit well past lunch time
  • Shipped with Cooler Shock dry mix, you hydrate and save. Simple instructions - made in the USA
  • Non-toxic ingredients, child safe. Lasts up to 10 hours, reusable again and again...
  • Avoid bacterial growth and spoilage with this pack when used as directed - NOTE:Our latest screw cap does not have a bottom rim, it has ridges. The cork is the primary seal

User questions & answers

Question: I lost my instructions. How much water do I add to an xl pack
Answer: Yes I used wood glue and supper clue to build it. It is a good kit.
Question: Do the packs float or sink in water
Answer: Model Shipways does not currently have this paint set available on Amazon but similar paints can be used. The paint set is designated MS1460S and consists of: 10 one oz. bottles: MS4802 Bulwarks Gun Red, MS4973 (2) Wood Conditioner, MS4839 Primer, MS4972 (3) Clear Satin, MS4831 White, MS4829 Hull Yellow Occre, MS4828 Iron Cannon Black.
Question: When you say that this item is colder than ice, what does that mean? ice can be cooled to any temperature unless i'm mistaken. a rock can be 18*f
Answer: Sorry. No sails are included.
Question: How long do these stay frozen for
Answer: Sorry. No sail plans are included. Sails have a tendency to hide much of the fine detail of the longboat.

Product features

Colder, Faster, Longer

An ice alternative that far outperforms ice, Cooler Shock reusable ice packs are designed to provide extended cooling at 18 degrees F that can last up to 48 hours.

Great for camping, picnics, boating, fishing, tailgating, and any perishable transport (both personal and commercial), Cooler Shock ice packs turn warm drinks ice cold in the cooler and your sandwiches won't turn soggy from melting ice. Just return Cooler Shock to your freezer and they'll be ready for the next outing.

DIY Reusable Bags — Just Add Water Once

Cooler Shock ice packs are shipped dry with a proprietary cooling gel mixture inside that turns into a solid block when frozen. Just add water at home, shake, and seal to create reusable ice packs that can be used over and over.

Choose from two closure types:

  • Screw cap (with cork and included funnel for filling).
  • Zipper version that's sealed permanently shut with an iron.

Thin, Durable Construction

Cooler Shock's flexible, multi-layer bags are made with aluminum and polyethylene to keep the contents secure and reinforced with thin nylon to help strengthen the pack.

Measuring about one-fifth the thickness of rigid ice packs, Cooler Shock's thin walls (8 mils, or about 0.2 mm) both freeze more quickly and transfer chill in a cooler more effectively.

Superior Cooling

Cooler Shock's proprietary cooling gel mixture is more dense than ice and uses a scientific phase change formulation, providing a higher energy concentration for sustained cooling at 18 degrees F (read more below).

Longest Lasting

When paired with a high quality cooler, Cooler Shock ice packs will keep your food and drink chilled longer — up to 48 hours for Large and Medium packs, and up to 8 hours for Lunch packs.

Reuse Over and Over

Return Cooler Shock ice packs to the freezer after using and they'll be ready for your next outing.

Affordable & Convenient

Cooler Shock ice packs will pay for themselves in just a couple outings (compared to the cost of 10 to 20 pounds of ice) — and no extra trip to the store.

YETI ICE Refreezable Reusable Cooler Ice Pack

YETI

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Yeti Ice YETI specializes in making things tough and keeping things ridiculously cold. YETI ICE does both: it chills contents faster, and it will never break. This ice substitute is filled with science, dialed in to the most effective temperature to maximize the ice retention of any cooler. Its custom shape reduces freezing time and maximizes durability. From lunchbox to skiff to elk camp, YETI ICE will take all the abuse needed to preserve your perishables longer.Dimensions:YETI ICE 1 lb - 8" x 2 5/8" x 1 5/8" YETI ICE 2 lb - 8" x 5 3/8" x 1 3/5" YETI ICE 4 lb - 10 3/4" x 8" x 1 3/5" Features: No messy cleanup : no puddles to drain, just toss it back in your freezer Freezes faster : custom shape helps freeze YETI ICE faster in your freezer Impact resistant : design to withstand the toughest of tumbles, thuds, and bumps Stays colder longer : chills ice and contents faster and helps keep your ice colder, longer

  • Works as an ice substitute or addition to your ice stash to make sure your contents stay colder for longer
  • Durable design that is break-resistant to withstand the toughest of tumbles
  • Custom shape reduces freezing time
  • Multiple size options mean that you can outfit everything from your Hopper Flip 12 to your Tundra 350
  • Dimensions: 10 3/4 in long x 8 in wide x 1 5/8 in high

User questions & answers

Question: How many 4ld for my yeti haul
Answer: The motors are down the middle but it feels like they spread out through my back.
Question: Will this fit the yeti daytrip packable lunch bag
Answer: Yes
Question: I work in the oilfield and use regular lunch ice packs and they are done within 4hour and by noon my lunch is kinda warm. Will this be a better choice
Answer: You pull them off. Not sure I understand your question. I have not had any problems changing them.
Question: Is this a gel pack
Answer: It has been my go to for "massaging" for years. I have had more expensive ones, but none have as reliably done the job.

Fit & Fresh XL Cool Coolers Freezer Slim Ice Pack for Lunch Box, Set of 4, Large, Blue

Fit & Fresh

Based on 4 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Heading back to work, school, or just need to get out of the house? These Fit & Fresh Cool Coolers XL Ice Packs are larger, thicker and longer lasting. Each ice pack measures 7"" x 4.5"" x 0.50"" making them the perfect solution to keeping food and drinks cold for school, work, beach days, picnics, and more! For greater cooling power, use several packs together, especially on extra hot days – But make sure to always have one in your freeze.Included in this set are 4 reusable blue ice packs that are non-toxic and BPA-Free Plastic. If the kids are headed back to school or you are planning a fun day at the park with the family, Fit & Fresh is here to help you stay healthy and safe along the way. The versatile shape also allows you to pack ice on the bottom and sides of your lunch bag/cooler without taking up lots of space. Plus, you can prevent germs from the cafeteria, shared office refrigerator, or takeout containers by packing a lunch using these long-lasting ice packs. Hand wash only, do not microwave.Proudly designed in the USA by women, for women, Fit & Fresh is dedicated to supporting your active and healthy lifestyle. We get it. Some days you eat leafy greens and rock it at the gym. Other days you can’t resist a decadent donut and live in yoga pants. We know firsthand that the key to living your best life is creating a colorful balance and we’re here with a line of accessories to help you do just that.

  • XL ICE PACKS: Whether you’re headed back to work, school, or just want to escape the house, these XL Ice Packs are perfectly sized for any bag. Measuring at 7" x 4.5" x 0.50" these ice packs are perfect for lunch bags, beach bags, picnic baskets & more
  • VERSATILE DESIGN: These extra-large ice packs help keep food and drinks cool & fresh even longer. The versatile design allows you to pack them on the bottom and/or sides of your lunch bag or cooler. Tip: use several ice packs for greater cooling power
  • LONG-LASTING: These reusable ice packs are designed to last long so you can head out knowing that what you pack will stay cool and fresh until you are ready to eat. For maximum cooling power, freeze the ice packs the night before use
  • HEALTHY AND SAFE: Included in this set are 4 reusable non-toxic, BPA-Free plastic ice packs. Prevent germs from the cafeteria, shared office refrigerator, or takeout containers by packing a lunch with these ice packs. Hand wash only, do not microwave
  • WE ARE FIT & FRESH: Proudly designed by women, for women, we are dedicated to supporting your healthy lifestyle. We know that the key to living your best life is creating a colorful balance & we’re here with a line of accessories to help you do just that

Amazon Basics Reusable Hard Sided Rectangular Ice Pack, 6.5" X 4.3" X 1.2", Blue, Pack of 4

Amazon Basics

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

An Amazon Brand

  • 4-pack of hard-sided rectangular ice packs for temporary cold storage of food, beverages, perishables, and more; dimensions measure 6.5 x 4.3 x 1.2 inches
  • Heavy-duty BPA-free plastic casing for leak-free durability
  • Place in coolers, lunch boxes, bags, storage cases, and more to keep items cold
  • Slim, lightweight design allows for easy, unobtrusive placement in any carrying container
  • Stays cold for hours; prepare ahead of time in home freezer by laying pack flat for 8 hours or more
  • Recommended to hand-wash before each use with mild dishwashing detergent; air dry or dry with a soft cloth

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