To maximize ice retention when using your cooler, follow these steps: cool down your cooler beforehand, cover the base with YETI® ice blocks, add large ice cubes, and pack pre-chilled items. Maintain a 2:1 ice-to-content ratio and fill empty spaces to minimize warm air inside. Limit cooler access to reduce warm air exposure, keep it shaded, and don’t drain melted ice. Consider using dry ice or rock salt for extended cooling.