How to Use Kona Ice Packs - Tips + Tricks for Optimal Cooling

How to Use Kona Ice Packs: Tips and Tricks for Optimal Cooling

Kona Ice Packs are designed to keep your food, drinks, and perishables cold for extended periods. Here’s how you can get the most out of each type of Kona ice pack, including filling instructions, usage tips, and cooler size recommendations.

Important Instructions for "Just Add Water" Kona Ice Packs

Some Kona Ice Packs come in a “just add water” style, where you need to fill the ice pack with water before freezing. When filling these ice packs:

  • Follow the Instructions Carefully: Open the cap or valve and fill the pack with the specified amount of water. Seal tightly and shake well to distribute the water evenly inside.
  • For Super Cold / Longer Lasting Ice packs:  Replace 20% of the water with 90% isopropyl alcohol. For the 4 pound ice packs, that means add 4.5 cups of water and add 1 cup of 90% isopropyl alcohol.  For the 2 pound ice packs, that means add 2 cups of water and add 1/2 cup 90% isopropyl alcohol. 
  • Don't Worry About Gel Consistency: You may notice variations in the thickness of the gel inside the ice packs. Sometimes, it may appear too thick or too watery. This is normal and does not affect the cooling performance. The active ingredient is not the thickener, so all is well, even if it appears watery.
  • Addressing Bulging Issues:  If you notice any bulging, it may be due to a high concentration of gelling material at the molecular level, which can prevent water from freezing evenly. For "Just Add Water" ice packs, you can resolve this by adding a small pinch (about 1/4 teaspoon) of salt to the pack and shaking it well. If the water level appears low, simply top it off to the proper level. Another possible cause of bulging is the ice pack not being stored flat in the freezer, particularly if it's tilted toward the cooling source. 

Watch This Video: [Click Here] to see a demonstration of filling a Kona 2lb and 4 lb Ice pack!


General Cooling Tips for Kona Ice Packs

  • Pre-Chill for Best Results: Pre-freeze Kona Ice Packs for 12-24 hours before use to maximize cooling duration.
  • Layering Technique: For best cooling results, layer ice packs at the bottom of the cooler, then add food and drinks, and finish with more ice packs on top.
  • Add Cold or Frozen Items: Placing cold or frozen food items in your cooler will significantly increase the duration your items stay cold. Avoid adding room temperature items, as they can reduce cooling efficiency.
  • If Adding Warm Items: If you need to add warm items, such as cans or bottles, it’s recommended to add a small quantity of ice along with your ice packs. This will help in quickly bringing down the temperature.

  • Maintenance: Store the ice packs flat in the freezer to ensure even freezing. Avoid puncturing or placing heavy objects on top of the packs when frozen.

  • Safety and Cleaning: Kona Ice Packs are non-toxic but are not meant for consumption. Clean with a mild detergent and water to keep them in top condition.

By understanding these tips, you can be confident that your Kona Ice Packs are working as intended to provide optimal cooling.

1. Kona XL Large Cooler Ice Packs - Reusable Long-Lasting Ice Pack (-5°C) Space-Saving Slim Ice Packs

  • Best Use Case: Ideal for large coolers during camping, fishing, road trips, or beach outings.
  • Cooler Size Recommendation: Suitable for large coolers (50 quarts or more).
  • How to Use:
    • Freeze the ice packs for 8-10 hours before use. These ice packs freeze in just 25 minutes but allow longer freezing for maximum longevity.
    • Place these slim ice packs along the sides or bottom of your cooler to maximize space.
    • For best results, layer the cooler: put a layer of ice packs on the bottom, add your items, and then top with another layer of ice packs.
  • Tips: Avoid overpacking the cooler to allow air circulation, enhancing the cooling effect. Use 4-6 ice packs depending on cooler size and combine with ice for enhanced cooling.

2. Kona Ice Packs for Lunch Boxes - No Ice Bags Required - Reusable Long-Lasting Cooler Ice Packs (-5°C) Small Thin Freezer Packs

  • Best Use Case: Perfect for lunch boxes, small coolers, or personal bags. Ideal for school, work, or a day out.
  • Cooler Size Recommendation: Best suited for small personal coolers or lunch boxes (up to 10 quarts).
  • How to Use:
    • Freeze the ice packs for 8-10 hours before use. These ice packs freeze in just 25 minutes but allow longer freezing for maximum longevity.
    • Place them around food items that need to stay cold, such as sandwiches, fruits, and beverages.
  • Tips: Use 1-2 packs per lunch box for school or work and pair with an insulated bag.

3. Kona Blue and Black Ice 2 Pound Ice Packs for Coolers - Long Lasting Design - Refreezable Reusable Cooler Ice Pack

        
  • Best Use Case: Suitable for medium-sized coolers for picnics, tailgating, or day trips.
  • Cooler Size Recommendation: Works well with medium coolers (20 to 40 quarts).
  • How to Use:
    • Pre-freeze the ice packs overnight (12 hours recommended).
    • Place these ice packs at the bottom of your cooler for even distribution of cold air.
    • You can also place them between layers of food and drinks to maintain consistent cooling.
  • Tips:
    • For Super Cold / Longer Lasting Ice packs:  Replace 20% of the water with 90% isopropyl alcohol. For the 2 pound ice packs, that means add 2 cups of water and add 1/2 cup of 90% isopropyl alcohol.
    • Ice Packs + Ice = Perfect Match:  Use 2-4 packs for medium coolers and mix with traditional ice cubes for prolonged cooling.

4. Kona Blue and Black Large Ice Pack for Coolers [4lb] - Extreme Long Lasting Design Absorbs Heat to Cool Faster - Refreezable, Reusable, Colder Than Ice (-5°C) Cooler Ice Pack

          
  • Best Use Case: Excellent for extended trips and large gatherings where a substantial amount of food and drinks need to stay cold for an extended period.
  • Cooler Size Recommendation: Large coolers (50 quarts and above).
  • How to Use:
    • Pre-freeze the ice packs overnight (12 hours recommended).
    • Use it as a base layer in your cooler to maintain a constant cold temperature throughout.
    • For best results, alternate layers of food and Kona Blue Ice Packs to create a cooling environment.
  • Tips:
    • For Super Cold / Longer Lasting Ice packs:  Replace 20% of the water with 90% isopropyl alcohol. For the 4 pound ice packs, that means add 4.5 cups of water and add 1 cup of 90% isopropyl alcohol.   
    • Ice Packs + Dry Ice = Ultimate portable cooling: Use these packs with dry ice to create an ultra-cold environment for sensitive items.

5. Kona Small Lunch Ice Packs Set of 6 - TSA Compliant Slim Reusable Freezer Packs, Approved Ice Replacement & Fits Most Anywhere (3 x 3 inches)

  • Best Use Case: Designed for small lunch bags, insulated lunch boxes, and even carry-on bags for air travel.
  • Cooler Size Recommendation: Ultra-compact, suitable for very small coolers or insulated bags (under 5 quarts).
  • How to Use:
    • Freeze the packs for 6-8 hours before use.
    • Place one or more packs alongside perishable items in your bag or cooler.
  • Tips: Because of their compact size, these packs can be easily stacked or placed in corners to fill gaps and maintain even cooling.  Use 2-4 packs per bag depending on size and cooling needs.

By following these detailed instructions and tips, you can ensure that your Kona Ice Packs deliver the best cooling performance, keeping your food and drinks fresh, cold, and ready to enjoy, whether you're headed to work, school, a picnic, or an extended camping trip!y!