I'm going on a little trip with weapons in tow and have to drive through NYC limits and beyond. All NY State. I have a pickup (open) and wanted to pack the cooler with beer and ice so It's ready pop when I arrive. I'm sure its legal to do...but should I just wait till I get there to buy the brew???...sounds stupid but I am serious...

At a time where they're giving tickets for people sitting on milk crates, and to pregnant women taking a rest on subway stairs....I wouldn't.
 I mean, if you know the people where you're going, have them chill it before you get there. If it's in nowheresville, then I would say bring the cooler empty and buy the ice and beer once you leave city limits. And with that method, they'll be colder since the ice would be fresher than ice that was lugged for hours through city traffic.
 Just a thought.