Why Our YETI Cooler is the Unsung Hero of Overlanding Life

It’s funny how something as simple as a cooler becomes a total game-changer when you’re living life on the road. For us, our YETI isn’t just a box that keeps things cold—it’s a beast of a travel companion that we trust on every leg of our journey. From long drives through scorching Spain to chilly alpine campsites, the YETI has never let us down. And the best part? It runs on zero energy. Just ice and good packing skills.

Our YETI cooler

Why We Chose a YETI

Built Like a Tank

Let’s be real: this thing is tough. We’ve dropped it, sat on it, strapped it to the roof, and let our pup jump on it. Not a crack in sight.

Holds Ice for Days, Even in Summer

We’ve been shocked—really. With good ice and smart packing, we’ve had cold drinks and fresh food after 4+ days without a refill.

No Power, No Problem

Being totally off-grid is easier when you’re not relying on batteries or solar to keep your food from going bad.

Energy-Free Cooling in the Wild

The Perks of Going Electricity-Free

No need to find a powered campsite. No wires, no plugs—just freedom.

Cooler Management Tips to Maximize Ice

We always pre-chill it overnight, use big block ice, and open it as little as possible.

How We Pack It for Long Hauls

Heaviest frozen items go at the bottom. Drinks and quick-grabs on top. A towel over everything to trap cold.

The Stickers That Tell Our Story

Every Sticker Has a Memory

We slap on a new sticker every time we visit somewhere special. France, Portugal, Austria—they're all there.

From Mountain Trails to Sandy Shores

Every side of our YETI is a colorful collage of moments and places.

Our YETI is a Moving Travel Journal

It’s not just functional—it’s personal. A map of our journey in sticker form.

Practical Perks of the YETI Cooler

Doubles as a Bench, Table, or Step

Need to reach the roof rack? Sit for lunch? Chop veggies? YETI to the rescue.

Keeps Food Safe and Critter-Proof

Solid latches and thick insulation mean no raccoons (or our curious retriever) sneaking a snack.

Easy to Clean and Maintain

Quick rinse, wipe out, and it’s good as new. No weird smells or mold buildup.

Daily Use on the Road

Breakfast Yoghurts and Picnic Lunches

Cold breakfast with granola? Yes please. Midday sandwiches? Always chilled and ready.

Ice-Cold Drinks After Long Drives

Crack a soda or beer from the YETI after hours behind the wheel—bliss.

Prepped Meals for Quick Dinners

We love prepping wraps, salads, and marinated meats that stay cool until we’re ready to grill.

Packing Techniques That Work

Block Ice vs. Cubed Ice

We aim for big blocks—they melt slower. Sometimes we freeze our water bottles and use them instead.

Cold Layering Method

Bottom: frozen stuff. Middle: dairy and meats. Top: drinks and ready-to-eat snacks.

Dry Zone Trick for Veggies and Eggs

We keep a basket inside to create a dry zone so sensitive items don’t get soggy.

How We Use the Cooler for Extended Trips

Restocking Smart at Local Markets

We plan meals based on what’s available locally, then restock every few days.

Avoiding Waste with Good Planning

The YETI helps us stick to a meal plan. Less food wasted, more space saved.

Using the Cooler with a Small Dry Pantry

We keep dry goods in a separate tote, and rotate items into the cooler as needed.

Our Favorite Things We've Stored in It

Local Cheeses and Cured Meats

Europe’s deli counters are amazing. A chilled stash of cheese and chorizo is always a win.

Fresh Catch from a Market Stop

Fish on ice = next-level camp dinner. Grilled over the fire with lemon and herbs? Yes.

How the YETI Keeps the Adventure Going

No Reliance on Campsites with Power

The freedom to park wherever and not worry about batteries draining.

More Freedom to Wild Camp

Less setup, more spontaneity. We just load it with ice and hit the road.

More Space in the Hilux

No compressor fridge taking up precious room—just one super-efficient box.

Conclusion

Our YETI cooler is more than just a box of cold. It’s our kitchen anchor, our sticker-covered sidekick, and one of the smartest gear decisions we’ve made. It keeps us off-grid longer, lets us eat better on the road, and tells our story one sticker at a time. If you're living the overland life, or even just dreaming of it—invest in a YETI. You won’t regret it.