The Beach is a B*tch

Friday, July 11, 2008

filed under: food

The idea of lugging a large cooler filled with warm drinks, snacks, and entertainment--iPod is key--to the beach is enough to make you scrap the whole thing. But these five finds will get you excited for a car full of sand!

Who hasn't gotten to the beach with a cooler filled with soggy food and warm drinks? A feature in the NY Times tested coolers to find which was the most beach friendly. Forget the bulky, plastic-handled crates we had when we were kids--these things are equipped with MP3 players, AM/FM radios and fantastic extra storage pockets. Did we mention they can keep ice frozen for days? Pick one in your price range...

	1) THERMOS AMERICAN CLASSIC 54 CAN COLLAPSIBLE PARTY TUB- $23.50 If you're just looking to keep things cold, this is the way to go. This party tub has layered insulation, is easily collapsible and can live in your hall closest all year-round. Sweet and cheap!
	2) COLEMAN 82-QUART ULTIMATE EXTREME WHEELED COOLER- $159.99 Holds 106 cans and will keep ice frozen for 6 days in 90 degree heat. The towing handle and sand-friendly wheels come in handy--although we can't stop your kids from wanting a ride. Take this one to the beach or your next family camping trip.
	3) IGLOO COOL FUSION 40 ICYTUNES- $165.99 The AM/FM radio and MP3 connection is just the thing to get your husband to stop complaining about packing for the beach. He'll be so excited about the iPod protective case, and ability to hold 58 cans, he'll be setting it up in the sand before you even get your sunscreen on.
	4) RUBBERMAID 75 QUART DURACHILL WHEELED 5-DAY COOLER-$55.99 Easy-to-maneuver and a hinged, split lid (easier to get to food and drinks without letting the cold air out)--this one is affordable, holds 130 cans and keeps ice frozen for 5 days. Can you say "par-tay?"
	5) KEEP YOUR COOLER DUFFEL MUSICOOLER- $65.20 Perfect for a smaller familiy, with a leak-proof liner and ability to hold 48 cans. It also has an AM/FM radio and can play music from your iPod or CD player through side speakers. This one's also small enough to use as an overnight duffel bag.