Cooler/Food advice

[frannn]

Me, DH, and DD1 will be going in Oct. We are going to Palm Beach to visit first, then Ft Meyers, then WDW. I was thinking of stopping at Publix in Boca Raton for water, diapers, wipes, food, etc, but had some questions. I could buy a small plastic folding cooler here before we go (the lunch pack type that may hold two sodas and two sandwiches), or a cardboard/styrofoam one from Publix, or just use the garbage pail from the AS resort. We won't be eating a lot in the room (other than late night snacking), but I would like to have fruit, muffins, milk, pb & j, cold water/soda, etc to take to the park for some lunches and snacks. Which cooler should I get, if any? I already have a fanny pack/bottle holder that is big enough for a wallet, a few diapers & wipes, and a few small snacks. What good snacks can I get from Publix that may hold us over through lunch? I love the tuna snack pack idea, but it isn't enough for lunch. I tried out those smuckers frozen pb & j sandwiches (uncrustables), but they are small and fattening. I can't imagine if I made tuna, etc in the AM in the room, the sandwiches would stay fresh all day in the sun, even in a small cooler. Plus, DH is never excited about room-made food. Any suggestions?

 

[Skinsfan]

Hi Frannn!
When we used to stay on-site, we would take a collapsible cooler. (We use a time-share now, with a full kitchen so the cooler is no longer necessary) We bought one years ago, from Costco. It's made by California Innovations(?)and holds up to 72 cans of soda. I think it costs around $15.00 and it collapses down pretty well. We would stock it with drinks, snacks, beer,whatever and fill it with ice at the hotel. It's the perfect size for the All Star rooms,(we've taken it to both the Sports and Movies). On your last night, empty the cooler, dry it out and it doubles as a small suitcase. We would fill it with souvenirs or even dirty clothes. They zip shut and you can seal it with an electrical tie, or a luggage strap. Hope this helps!!