I also recall reading on here about someone that uses ice frozen in plastic milk cartons to get the cooling without the melt water. And I have also read about the evaporation trick. But we took it one step further. We have gone through two ice chests in the last four months (Igloo and Coleman). Handles and latches breaking off. Plus the poor insulation in them means constantly replenishing the ice. Broke down and bought a Yeti this week. First reaction was but we figure if it lasts several years we will break even. Yet to see if the ice really does last longer.
Ted, I've been looking at both the Yeti and Engel coolers. Where are you carrying yours, inside your camper or in the truck? Based on the spec measurements it looks like both coolers would just barely squeeze into the Hawk between the couch and propane compartment. Otherwise, the cooler would have be lifted over the couch...which seems like it would be HEAVY