Coolers and Ice Chests

You need a drink. And not a lukewarm glass of plain, boring liquid. A shockingly cold brew that instantly cools you from head to toe on a hot summer’s day. If you’re inside at home, accessing your refrigerator isn’t much of a challenge. But if you’re in your backyard or hosting a party on your patio, having easy access to cool, flavorful beverages may not be as simple. Sure, you can make the trek back indoors, through your kitchen to the fridge and back again, but there’s a simpler solution: A cooler or ice chest.

If it’s just you and a good book, a small, collapsible beverage cooler will do. For larger get-togethers, a plastic or metal ice chest can house a number of drinks plus ice cubes. You can also find medium-sized coolers that feature an open bowl where your guests can easily grab a drink. These typically stand taller — about waist-high — so your beverages are easily accessible to anyone strolling by. If your party likes to move around, a backpack cooler or rolling cooler can move right along with you. If those drinks need to stay cool for a long time, an electric cooler amplifies its cooling powers as long as there’s a place to plug in.

Treat yourself to a cold drink. Don’t worry about having to put down your novel just as the story starts getting good. Don’t worry about having to slip away from the party and miss out on the conversation. Just grab a can or bottle from your cooler and you’re good to go.