Cooler Packing Checklist — Food Safety for Picnics and Camping

1. Chill or freeze food and drinks ahead of time and pre-chill the cooler
2. Pack ample ice, block ice or frozen gel packs
3. Pack only the portions needed plus clean serving utensils and plates
4. Add a thermometer to verify the cooler stays at 40°F / 4°C or below
5. Divide food into watertight sealed containers or bags
6. Pack last-used food at the bottom and first-used food on top
7. Fill empty space with cold sources and confirm the lid closes fully
8. Keep the cooler out of direct sun and away from a hot trunk when possible
9. Take out only what is needed and close the lid promptly

Keep cold food at 40°F / 4°C or below. Return perishables to cold storage or discard them within 2 hours outside the cooler—or 1 hour above 90°F / 32°C.