For serious hunters, the quest doesn’t end with a successful harvest—proper game preservation begins immediately after. That’s where dry ice comes in as a hunter’s best friend. But where exactly should you source this cold commodity when preparing for your next expedition? Let’s dive into the options.
Local Supply Stores: The Traditional Route
Most hunters start their search at local supermarkets and grocery chains. Stores like Kroger, Publix, Safeway, and even Walmart sometimes carry dry ice in their frozen food sections. However, there’s a catch—availability isn’t guaranteed, especially during prime hunting season when demand spikes.
I learned this lesson the hard way last deer season when I visited three different stores only to find “out of stock” signs at each location. 😩 Plus, quantity limits often apply, which isn’t ideal when you’re preserving multiple animals or planning an extended trip.
Specialty Ice Companies: The Reliable Option
Dedicated ice companies offer a more dependable solution. These specialty suppliers maintain consistent stock and understand the specific needs of hunters. Unlike grocery stores, they typically don’t impose strict quantity limitations, allowing you to purchase exactly what your hunting expedition requires.
Many local ice companies now offer convenient pickup options—you can call ahead, place your order, and swing by their facility on your way to your hunting grounds. Some even provide custom-cut blocks specifically sized for different cooler types!
Dry Ice Delivery: The Game-Changer
Perhaps the most revolutionary development for hunters is direct-to-door dry ice delivery. This option eliminates last-minute scrambling and ensures you have exactly what you need when you need it.
With nationwide services like Ice Maven, hunters can have precisely measured dry ice shipped overnight, arriving fresh and ready to use. This service is particularly valuable when hunting in remote areas where local suppliers might be scarce or nonexistent. Planning a backcountry elk hunt? Having dry ice delivered directly to your cabin or lodge can be a literal game-saver.
Buying Tips for Hunters
When purchasing dry ice for hunting purposes, here are some practical considerations:
Timing matters: Plan to purchase dry ice as close to departure as possible—ideally within 24 hours of when you’ll need it.
Quantity calculation: A good rule of thumb is 10-15 pounds of dry ice per day for a standard 48-quart cooler full of game meat.
Safety first: Always handle with insulated gloves and transport in a well-ventilated vehicle.
Layering technique: For optimal game preservation, place dry ice below AND above your wrapped meat, not directly against unwrapped game.
The Bottom Line
While grocery stores can work in a pinch, professional ice suppliers or delivery services offer the reliability that serious hunters need. The peace of mind that comes with guaranteed availability—especially when you’ve invested significant time and resources into your hunt—is invaluable.
Having dry ice shipped directly to your door eliminates one more variable in an activity already filled with unpredictability. After all, you’ve meticulously planned every other aspect of your hunting trip—why leave your preservation strategy to chance?
Remember, the quality of your game meat depends not just on your marksmanship, but also on how quickly and effectively you can cool it after the harvest. Choose your dry ice source wisely, and your freezer will thank you with months of premium wild game enjoyment.