The Complete Keg Tub Rental Guide for Parties Across Upstate New York

So you've decided on a keg. Good move. Now comes the part people forget about until the last minute — what are you actually going to put it in?

A keg sitting bare on a table doesn't stay cold for long, and it's a pain to keep iced down without something to hold it. That's where a plastic keg tub comes in. It keeps the keg packed in ice, contains the mess, and makes the whole setup look like you actually planned it.

Beer Universe can help with this across all 15 locations. If you're picking up a keg, ask about a tub at the same time — it's one less thing to source separately.

Why You Need a Tub With Your Keg

• Keeps the keg fully surrounded by ice instead of just sitting in a puddle

• Contains the meltwater so your patio or driveway doesn't flood

• Makes the keg easier to move once it's set up, especially with side handles

• Gives your setup a cleaner look than a keg propped against a wall

It's a small detail, but it's the difference between a keg that stays cold all afternoon and one that's warm by hour two.

What to Ask About When You Call

Keg tub availability and terms can vary by location and by season, so it's always worth a quick call before you build your whole party around it.

• Whether a tub is included with your keg order or available separately

• What sizes are on hand for your keg type — 1/6 barrel or 1/2 barrel

• Any deposit or return requirements if a tub is being lent out

• Pickup timing, especially around busy weekends

A two-minute phone call to your nearest Beer Universe location saves you from scrambling on party day.

Keg Tubs Across All 15 Beer Universe Locations

Wherever you're hosting across Upstate NY, your nearest Beer Universe can help you sort out a keg and a tub to go with it.

• Albany — our main hub, also shipping statewide across New York

• Amsterdam — a quick stop heading toward Lake George

• Coxsackie — right on Route 9W in Greene County

• Kingston — the Hudson Valley's go-to for kegs and party supplies

• Wynantskill — serving Rensselaer County

• Saugerties — convenient on the way to the Catskills

• Troy-Northern, Troy-5th Ave & Troy-Hoosick — three stores covering the whole city

• Schenectady-Kelton & Schenectady-Union — two locations covering both sides of town

• Malta, Saratoga, Queensbury & Wilton — our newest stores serving the Saratoga and Glens Falls corridor

Looking for a keg tub rental in Saratoga, NY, or a plastic keg tub rental in Troy, NY? Call your nearest Beer Universe and they'll walk you through what's available.

Setting Up Your Keg Tub the Right Way

• Ice first, keg second: pack a layer of ice in the bottom before lowering the keg in

• Surround it completely: pack ice tightly around the sides, not just on top

• Keep it shaded: direct sun will melt your ice fast, even in a good tub

• Top up halfway through: a mid-party ice refresh keeps the keg pouring cold all night

Order Your Whole Keg Setup in One Place

Once you've got the tub sorted, round out the rest of the order while you're at it.

• Kegs — domestic, craft and imported options in multiple sizes

• Bulk ice — enough to fully surround your keg and keep it cold

• Cups and party supplies — everything else your setup needs

One order, one pickup, and your keg setup is ready to roll.

Plan Your Keg Setup Today

Don't leave the tub as an afterthought. Call your nearest Beer Universe and ask what's available for your next keg order.

🍺 Shop Kegs →

🧊 Shop Ice →

📍 Find Your Nearest Beer Universe Location →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a keg tub included when I order a keg?

It depends on the location and what's in stock at the time. Call ahead to your nearest Beer Universe to confirm whether a tub comes with your keg order or needs to be arranged separately.

What size tub do I need for a 1/2 barrel keg?

A 1/2 barrel keg needs a larger tub with enough room for ice to surround the whole keg. Your nearest store can confirm what sizes they have on hand for your specific keg.

Do I need to pay a deposit for a keg tub?

Deposit requirements can vary by location and arrangement. Ask about this when you call to place your keg order so there are no surprises on pickup day.

Can I get a keg tub at any of the 15 Beer Universe locations?

Availability can vary by store and season, including our newer locations in Malta, Saratoga, Queensbury and Wilton. The best move is to call your nearest location directly when you place your keg order.