The Long Pod Ice Bath

Best For: Budget-conscious users who want a no-frills, compact cold plunge tub for personal use.

What It Is

The Long Pod Ice Bath from Pod Company is a manual, non-electric cold plunge tub designed for basic at-home cold therapy. It’s one of the most affordable plunge options on the market, offering a straightforward solution for users who don’t mind adding their own ice and water.

Built from multi-layered waterproof materials with an insulated foam middle layer, the Long Pod is lightweight, easy to assemble, and ideal for beginners or those with space or budget limitations.

Despite its simplicity, it does the job: it holds cold water effectively for immersion and can help users experience the core benefits of cold exposure — from recovery and stress relief to boosted circulation.

Key Specs

• Type: Manual, non-chiller cold tub
• Material: Waterproof PVC outer shell with insulated foam core
• Shape: Long rectangular design
• Dimensions: Approx. 140 cm (L) x 70 cm (W) x 60 cm (H)
• Capacity: ~400L (105 gallons)
• Includes: Tub, lid, support rods, hand pump
• Portability: Lightweight and collapsible for storage or travel
• Chiller Compatibility: Not officially listed as compatible

Why It’s So Affordable

The Long Pod cuts costs by focusing only on the essential function — holding cold water. There are no digital controls, no built-in chillers, and no rigid construction.

This approach keeps the price exceptionally low, making it a great entry point for curious cold plungers who want to experiment before investing in a more permanent or automated setup.

That said, the lower cost comes with trade-offs in durability, temperature control, and lifespan — especially if used daily or in harsh weather conditions.

Pros

• Ultra Affordable: One of the cheapest full-body cold plunge tubs available
• Beginner-Friendly: Simple setup and maintenance
• Portable: Can be deflated, packed up, and stored easily
• Compact Shape: Ideal for tight spaces like balconies or small backyards
• Insulated Layers: Helps retain cold slightly better than bare plastic tubs

Cons

• Manual Cooling Only: No chiller integration, so you’ll need regular ice refills
• Limited Durability: Not built for high-frequency or long-term use
• No Built-In Drainage: May require tipping or a siphon for water removal
• Less Aesthetic Appeal: Functional design with minimal visual polish
• Snug Fit for Larger Users: Taller users may find the size restrictive

Who It’s For

• First-time cold plungers testing out the habit before upgrading
• Apartment dwellers or renters who want something collapsible and portable
• Travelers or athletes needing a temporary setup
• Budget-focused buyers who want the benefits of cold therapy without major investment

It’s not ideal for users who want daily use with minimal hassle, precise temperature control, or a high-end spa experience.

Final Take

The Long Pod Ice Bath delivers exceptional value for what it offers — a basic but effective gateway to cold therapy. While it lacks the durability and convenience of more expensive tubs, it’s a smart entry-level choice for users who want to start cold plunging without splurging.

If you’re serious about cold therapy and plan to make it a long-term habit, you may outgrow this pod quickly. But as a “toe in the water” solution, it’s hard to beat the price.

➡️ Ready to level up? Explore cold tubs with chillers for automated, plug-and-plunge setups.