Pro-tips on packing the perfect cooler
When it comes to celebrating Independence Day in Alaska, pack your cooler like a pro. Whether you’re heading to the lake, the mountains, or a backyard BBQ, your cooler is your mobile refreshment station—and what you put in it matters.
Step 1: Start Cold
Before you even begin packing, chill your cooler overnight. A pre-chilled cooler keeps things colder longer and makes your ice work smarter, not harder.
Step 2: The Ice Game
Use a mix of block ice and cubed ice. Block ice melts slower, keeping the base temperature low, while cubed ice fills in the gaps and surrounds your drinks for quick chilling. (Get this early or a day in advance and put it in the spare freezer you likely have in the garage. The ice goes FAST at the corner gas station, Freddy’s etc.)
Step 3: Layer It Right
Start with your essentials: at least a six-pack (or two) of 49th State Brewing’s 8 Star Lager. It’s crisp, refreshing, and practically made for Alaskan celebrations. Nestle the cans along the bottom row of ice.
Next, add Frontier Alaska Soda—especially for your younger guests and designated drivers. Root Beer, Blueberry Cream Soda, or maybe one of our mystery flavors like Endless Summer?
Don’t forget the Hop Melt—a must-have non-alcoholic option with hoppy flavor and zero ABV. It’s perfect for sipping between beers or when you just want the taste of hops without the buzz.
Step 4: Snack Strategy
Pack your snacks in tightly sealed, waterproof containers—think hard plastic or reusable bento boxes. Sandwiches, fruits, cheese sticks, and dips are all cooler-friendly as long as they’re protected.
Pro Tip: Place a small tray or cutting board over your drink layer, then stack your snacks on top. This creates a flat surface, keeps snacks dry, and prevents them from getting squished under cans and ice.
Step 5: Keep It Closed
Open your cooler with purpose. Every peek lets out cold air and melts the magic.
Now you’re ready to raise a can (or soda) and toast to freedom—with your perfectly chilled lineup in hand.
We hope this gets your wheels turning. If you’re looking for 49th State product, find it at all major stores across the state as well as independent retailers. If you want some more essoteric options, pop in to our pub and see what’s on offer from the Liquid Lab!
Step 1: Start Cold
Before you even begin packing, chill your cooler overnight. A pre-chilled cooler keeps things colder longer and makes your ice work smarter, not harder.
Step 2: The Ice Game
Use a mix of block ice and cubed ice. Block ice melts slower, keeping the base temperature low, while cubed ice fills in the gaps and surrounds your drinks for quick chilling. (Get this early or a day in advance and put it in the spare freezer you likely have in the garage. The ice goes FAST at the corner gas station, Freddy’s etc.)
Step 3: Layer It Right
Start with your essentials: at least a six-pack (or two) of 49th State Brewing’s 8 Star Lager. It’s crisp, refreshing, and practically made for Alaskan celebrations. Nestle the cans along the bottom row of ice.
Next, add Frontier Alaska Soda—especially for your younger guests and designated drivers. Root Beer, Blueberry Cream Soda, or maybe one of our mystery flavors like Endless Summer?
Don’t forget the Hop Melt—a must-have non-alcoholic option with hoppy flavor and zero ABV. It’s perfect for sipping between beers or when you just want the taste of hops without the buzz.
Step 4: Snack Strategy
Pack your snacks in tightly sealed, waterproof containers—think hard plastic or reusable bento boxes. Sandwiches, fruits, cheese sticks, and dips are all cooler-friendly as long as they’re protected.
Pro Tip: Place a small tray or cutting board over your drink layer, then stack your snacks on top. This creates a flat surface, keeps snacks dry, and prevents them from getting squished under cans and ice.
Step 5: Keep It Closed
Open your cooler with purpose. Every peek lets out cold air and melts the magic.
Now you’re ready to raise a can (or soda) and toast to freedom—with your perfectly chilled lineup in hand.
We hope this gets your wheels turning. If you’re looking for 49th State product, find it at all major stores across the state as well as independent retailers. If you want some more essoteric options, pop in to our pub and see what’s on offer from the Liquid Lab!