MED PRIDE Instant Cold Pack First Aid Kit Ice Pack for Injuries and Pain Relief, No Freezer Needed, 5in X 6in (6 Count (Pack of 1) Clear)

I purchased these cold packs for an overseas trip I took in Feb/March. I was on a tour with 34 other people and there was a lot of walking. I have knee and ankle issues and wore braces while out and about, but I still needed to ice in the evenings. These ice packs did the trick. The cold didn't last as long as I'd like, but it was enough to help keep my knees and ankles from swelling and helped with the strain/pain. When I cracked the first one open, it took a lot of strength and I was worried I'd break it wide open - but it didn't and thus I figured out how to best get the cold activated. These were certainly worth the cost and I'll buy them again and use them when I travel the next time (especially if there will be a lot of walking).

I carry these for hot flash relief. They're great for this purpose, but I found that the cold temperature starts to wear off after about 5-10 minutes.

I've purchased two boxes of these now (wife with 3 broken ribs from an accident). The first box, the packs could be broken by folding every time. Never had an issue, but did have to squeeze hard and in the right spot to break the inside packs. The second box, I opened when my wife was in pain and needed a pack very quickly. I go to grab one of the new ones, squeeze it, and it wouldn't break. Could not get it to squeeze that little pack that's supposed to break inside. Tried a 2nd one, also would not break on folding! A 3rd one. Same! I was very frustrated because my wife was in pain, and in that moment, I threw 2 of the packs flat against the floor. I go to pick it up to toss in the trash, and THEY'RE BOTH COLD! Turns out that was just perfect to break the packs inside. Now, I throw em against the floor every time (make sure they land flat). You can relieve a little frustration stress without having to squeeze really hard! Definitely recommend because they are convenient, don't perspire like freezer ones, and, now with knowing I can toss them around to open them, are kinda fun!

These worked really well for me last year for summer camp - used for myself and others. Great to have on hand - Ordered them again this year! As to being difficult to activate - had that problem as well with some of the packs. If I cannot activate them by hand, I fold the pack in half, place it on the floor and apply pressure SLOWLY with my foot until the activator pack inside pops

Great. You have to give them a good stomp.