Reusable Hot Packs

Reusable hot packs for camping and picnic use are basically the same type of gel pack that is use for injuries and muscle pain relief - it is a durable plastic pouch containing thermal gel which can be heated or chilled as need for a variety of applications.

In the case of use with food, it can be heated in a microwave, or boiling water (see manufacturer's directions, and follow them carefully!) and stored with food in a thermal carrier, such as an Igloo cooler, or probably better still, a carrier designed to retain heat.

In most cases, the gel can be used for both cooling and heating. Heating the gel pack would work the same way as freezing it would be used to keep food or drinks chilled. Unless one needs to travel very light, it can easily be used for camping, hiking, any kind of day-long event, such as tailgating or fishing trips. It can be useful any time you'd need to maintain a warm temperature for food, or drinks.

Like most consumer goods, hot packs can be purchased online, through websites like Amazon.com, or Overstock.com, or at brick and mortar stores like Target or Walmart. Hot (and cold) packs can also be purchased at specialty stores for camping or sporting goods. There are also several online stores that deal with thermal products of many consumer uses exclusively.

Some packs come with a washable cover, though this isn't always the case. Reusable gel packs without a cover can easily be hand washed with mild soap, and stored in the freezer or refrigerator, for cold use, or kept in a bag at room temperature until it's time to heat it - just be sure to keep it in a place where it will be safe from punctures or cuts. If it's going to be regularly used for picnicking, the picnic hamper is an good choice for storage. Just keep an extra one around the house in case anyone needs it for a sprain or bump