BTW don't completely discard the idea of buying a cooler once at your destination. I've done that a few times. Usually I buy one of those styrofoam coolers that's basically a throw-away after several days to a week of use; but that's enough for the trip. Last time I priced them, about two weeks ago, they were $8 at a grocery store. Recently on a trip I bought a Coleman "Playmate" cooler for about $15. Paying such prices may be easier than the costs or hassle of checking a cooler.