If, like me, your fridge is bursting at the seams when it comes to stocking up for summer gatherings and you don't have the space or budget to invest in an extra one just for occasional use, the Ninja FrostVault is the perfect compromise.
With tonnes of space for cans and bottles in the main compartment (it comes in different sizes, from 30qt, which fits 28 cans with ice, to a whopping 65qt, which fits 54 cans with ice). It'll act as a portable refrigerator whenever you need it for hosting.
Also, there's no need to plug it in – so cables won't be an issue – and it has an ingenious 'dry zone' drawer underneath, so food can be kept cool, too, without getting soggy. Tempted? Now's the time to get your hands on one, as you'll use it all summer long
This 45qt cooler is a good mid-range option if you're not sure which size to go for - it fits up to 68 cans and the wheels make it easy to move into position before loading it up.
Ninja claims that their coolbox will keep things cold for days, not just hours, with 'up to 7-day ice retention' for the 65qt and 5 days for the 30qt, based on testing at 77°F when filled with ice and the lid closed. I'd want to put that to the test in a real-life situation when it's being opened and closed regularly, but some reviewers have mentioned that they still had solid ice after as long as 48 hours.
The all-terrain wheels are super durable, impact and puncture resistant, so they will tackle even the trickiest of terrain for those more adventurous of you looking to take it out on off-road trips.
But the clever 'dry zone' is the highlight for me as it'll keep your barbecue meats and other party food or sandwiches at a food-safe fridge temperature without getting squashed, soggy or contaminated by leaking drinks or ice melt.
Not sure which to spend your cash on? If your main requirement is additional refrigeration space for al fresco hosting, a larger size might be preferable. You can put it in place before filling it up with ice and supplies, to save maneuvering it whilst full.
But, if you're planning to take it out and about, on camping trips or cookouts, you'll want to consider trunk space and weight, as they are chunky and heavy to lift, even when empty.
More cooling buys for summer hosting
These large reusable ice packs last for up to 48 hours and promise to stay cold longer than ice. Plus, they aren't as messy as using ice cubes, which will melt in the heat. These extra-large ones come in a pack of three.
Fill your freezer in advance and pop these ice cubes straight into your cooler – they'll last a few days before you need to use them, if you keep it closed as much as possible.
Neatly arrange your food and snacks in your cool box with these stackable bento boxes with removable ice blocks. And you can use them for school or work lunches, too.
I have the 30-qt Ninja Frost Vault, which I'll be putting to the test this summer at a festival, so watch this space for my honest opinion on how it fares.
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