A reliable camping fridge or electric cool box is a game changer! They are an essential item for keeping your food fresh and your beverages chilled during your trips into the great outdoors.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the benefits of a camping fridge, factors to consider when choosing one and take a look at some of the best camping fridges available today.
So let’s delve in and get ready to enhance your camping experience with the convenience of an electric camping fridge.
What Is The Best Camping Fridge?
The best camping fridge will vary based on your individual needs and requirements.
Factors to consider include capacity, power source options, energy efficiency, durability, and temperature control.
Researching and comparing these features will help you find the ideal electric camping fridge for your specific camping needs.
Here are my top picks for the best camping fridges this year…
Best Overall
Alpicool CF55 55L
- Fridge/freezer combination
- Smart power management system
- 3-Level battery protection mode
- Useful app for mobile phone
Best Compressor Camping Fridge: BODEGA 50L Car Refrigerator
Best 3-Way Camping Fridge: DOMETIC CombiCool RC 2200
Best Electric Cool Box: Outwell ECOcool 35L
Best Budget Cooler: Hi-Gear 28L Electric Camping Cooler
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Alpicool CF55 55L
Best Overall
Type: Compressor
Capacity: 55L
Other sizes: 36/45/50/60 L
What I like: Smart power management system, useful app, great price point
What I dislike: Can be a little noisy
The Alpicool CF55 55L Car Refrigerator is a powerful and versatile cooling solution that offers excellent cooling performance and effective heat preservation. With the ability to reduce the internal temperature from 25°C (77°F) to 0°C (32°F) in just 15 minutes, this car refrigerator ensures your food and drink stay fresh and delicious during long-distance travels.
One standout feature of the CF55 is its 3-level battery protection mode, which effectively safeguards your car battery from exhaustion. When the output voltage is insufficient, the refrigerator automatically disconnects, prioritizing the proper functioning of your vehicle. Once the output voltage is sufficient again, the refrigerator resumes its operation, eliminating the need for manual resetting of the settings.
With a large 55L capacity, the CF55 provides ample storage space and can be used as both a fridge and freezer. The freezer room can freeze items perfectly when the temperature drops below 0℃(32℉), while the refrigerator room maintains its refrigerating function. The inclusion of storage baskets in the freezer room allows for easy access to food without any stickiness.
The Alpicool CF55 is designed for multiple uses and is equipped with both DC and AC cords, making it suitable for outdoor and indoor use. Whether you’re on a self-driving tour, picnic, camping trip, or enjoying a BBQ, this refrigerator can meet your cooling needs in various situations.
In summary, the Alpicool CF55 55L Car Refrigerator offers powerful cooling performance, efficient heat preservation, and a range of convenient features. Its battery protection mode ensures the longevity of your car battery, while it’s large capacity and partitioned storage allow for flexible food and item storage. Whether you’re embarking on outdoor adventures or enjoying indoor activities, the CF55 is a reliable companion for keeping your food and drink both fresh and chilled.
BODEGA 50L Car Refrigerator
Best Compressor Camping Fridge
Type: Compressor
Capacity: 50 L
Other sizes: 36/60 L
What I like: Convenient wheels for moving around, touch screen control and handy mobile app
What I dislike: Very heavy
The BODEGA 50L Car Refrigerator is a versatile and spacious cooling solution designed for your camping, party, travel, and outdoor adventures. With its dual-zone feature, you can independently control the temperature of each zone. The left zone offers 28.5L of storage, while the right zone provides 21.5L, combining a total capacity of 50L. If you prefer a single zone, you can easily remove the middle plate. This car fridge can accommodate up to 57 cans, 31 bottles of water, or 18 bottles of red wine.
One of the standout features of the BODEGA 50L Car Refrigerator is its fast cooling capability. Equipped with a powerful compressor, it can cool down to 0℃ within 20 minutes and reach an impressive low of -20℃ in MAX mode within an hour. The ECO mode allows for energy-saving operation. You have the flexibility to adjust the temperature of the freezer or fridge zone from 20℃ to -20℃ using either the LCD panel or the dedicated app, providing convenient control options.
Portability is a key aspect of this campervan mini fridge. It features wheels and a handle, making it easy to move around. The LCD display panel and inner LED light enhance usability, especially in low-light conditions. The USB port and removable basket design add practicality to the overall user experience.
Operating the BODEGA 50L Car Refrigerator is simple and convenient. You can control it through the dedicated app, via Wi-Fi connection, or manually. By downloading the app (available for both Android and iOS), you can easily adjust settings and monitor the fridge’s performance. If manual control is preferred, simply press the power button for 3 seconds to turn on the unit.
The BODEGA electric camping fridge comes with both 100-240V AC and 12/24V DC adapters, enabling you to use it at home or in your car. With a car freezer line length of approximately 2.6m, you have flexibility in positioning the fridge within your vehicle.
Overall, the BODEGA 50L Car Refrigerator offers versatility, fast cooling performance, and convenient control options. Its dual-zone feature allows for independent temperature control, while the portable design with wheels and handle ensures ease of movement. Whether you’re on a camping trip, hosting a party, or travelling, this refrigerator provides ample storage capacity and reliable cooling capabilities.
Totalcool Totalfreeze 35L
Type: Compressor
Capacity: 35L
Other sizes: 45/55 L
What I like: Low current draw, dedicated mobile app
What I dislike: Very heavy at 18 KG and no wheels to aid movement
The Totalcool Totalfreeze 35L Portable Compressor Fridge Freezer is a premium cooling solution that stands out for its high-quality components and advanced cooling technology. This feature-packed unit is designed with durability, portability, and versatility in mind, making it an excellent choice for caravans, motorhomes, boats, beach trips, and more.
With its ergonomic design, the Totalfreeze 35 offers easy portability, allowing you to take it wherever you go. Whether you need efficient cooling or freezing, this unit can deliver impressive results, reaching temperatures as low as -20ºC. What sets it apart is its exceptionally low current draw, consuming only 30-40 watts of power. This energy efficiency ensures that you can enjoy long-lasting cooling without draining your power source.
The Totalfreeze 35 also features convenient technological advancements. You can now control the unit conveniently using the dedicated app, available for both Android and iOS devices. This adds a level of convenience and control, allowing you to adjust settings and monitor the temperature remotely.
In summary, the Totalcool Totalfreeze 35L Portable Compressor Fridge Freezer offers premium quality, advanced cooling capabilities, and impressive energy efficiency. With the added convenience of the control app, you have full control over your cooling experience. Whether you’re on a caravan trip, a boat excursion, or enjoying a day at the beach, the Totalfreeze 35 is a reliable and versatile cooling companion.
DOMETIC CoolFreeze CDF 26
Type: Compressor
Capacity: 21 L
Other sizes: 10.5/18/31 L
What I like: Digital display, compact design
What I dislike: High price for a small capacity
The DOMETIC CoolFreeze CDF 26 is a highly versatile and efficient portable refrigerator that offers reliable cooling power and deep-freezing capabilities. Whether you’re on the road or at home, this compact cooler is designed to meet your refrigeration needs.
One of the notable features of the CoolFreeze CDF 26 is its flexible power options. It can run on 12/24 V DC power from your vehicle’s battery or be connected to a 100-240 V AC power source. This versatility ensures that you can keep your food and beverages chilled or frozen regardless of your location.
With its compressor cooling technology, the CDF 26 provides rapid and precise temperature control, allowing you to refrigerate or deep-freeze your items to a chilling -18 degrees Celsius. The digital temperature display makes it easy to monitor and adjust the temperature according to your preferences.
Despite its compact size, the CDF 26 boasts an impressive capacity of approximately 21.5 litres, providing ample storage space for your essentials. The lift-out wire basket adds convenience by allowing easy organization and access to your items.
The CoolFreeze CDF 26 features a super-slim design, making it ideal for tight spaces in your vehicle or any other environment. It is also designed with energy efficiency in mind, ensuring low energy consumption to preserve car battery life and minimize power usage.
In summary, the DOMETIC CoolFreeze CDF 26 is a reliable and efficient portable refrigerator that offers the flexibility of multiple power options. With its compressor cooling technology, precise temperature control, and compact design, it is an excellent choice for those seeking a portable cooling solution for their outdoor adventures, road trips, or everyday use.
Other Compression Camping Fridges to Consider
Alpicool G22 Car Fridge
Alpicool CX50 Electric Fridge
Just Kampers Compressor
DOMETIC CombiCool RC 2200
Best 3-Way Camping Fridge
Type: Absorption
Capacity: 41 L
What I like: Very versatile due to 3-way design
What I dislike: Gives off a lot of heat when running on gas
The DOMETIC CombiCool RC 2200 is a versatile and reliable portable absorption cooler that ensures your food and drinks stay cool wherever your adventures take you. With its multiple power options and efficient cooling capabilities, it is an excellent choice for camping, road trips, and outdoor excursions.
One of the standout features of the CombiCool RC 2200 is its ability to be powered by gas, 12 V DC, and 230 V AC. This flexibility allows you to use the cooler in various settings, whether you have access to electricity or need to rely on a portable gas cylinder. You can enjoy the convenience of cool food and beverages regardless of your location.
With its absorption cooling technology, the RC 2200 can cool up to 33 degrees Celsius below the ambient temperature. This impressive cooling capacity ensures that your items remain chilled and refreshing even in hot environments. It offers approximately 41 litres of storage capacity, providing ample space to store your supplies. The cooler can accommodate up to eight 2-litre bottles, allowing you to keep a generous amount of beverages on hand.
The silent operation of the CombiCool RC 2200 is another notable feature. You can enjoy a peaceful environment without any disruptive noise from the cooler, making it perfect for camping trips or nighttime use.
The elegant aluminium housing adds a touch of style to the cooler’s design, giving it a sleek and modern appearance. Not only is it functional, but it also looks great in any setting.
Overall, the DOMETIC CombiCool RC 2200 is a highly effective and versatile absorption cooler that provides reliable cooling power for your outdoor adventures. Whether you’re camping, travelling, or simply enjoying a picnic, this cooler offers the convenience of multiple power options, efficient cooling performance, and spacious capacity. With its silent operation and elegant design, it is the cooler of choice for those seeking a reliable and stylish cooling solution on the go.
Other 3-Way Absorption Camping Fridges to Consider
Dometic CombiCool ACX3
Smad 3-Way Fridge
Outwell ECOcool 35L Cool Box
Best Electric Cool Box
Type: Thermoelectric
Capacity: 35 L
Other sizes: 24 L
What I like: Heats as well as cools, ice pack divider, great capacity
What I dislike: High price compared to similar alternatives
The Outwell ECOCool 35L Cool Box is a thermoelectric cooling solution that delivers reliable performance for outdoor adventures. With both 240V hookup and 12V battery power options, it offers versatile operation. The cool box features two cooling modes, including a powerful MAX setting that can achieve temperatures close to freezing, making it suitable even on scorching days.
Measuring 52 x 32 x 43 cm and weighing around 8kg, the ECOCool provides a generous 35-litre capacity, making it ideal for small to medium-sized family trips. Its swing handle allows for easy lifting, even when fully loaded.
One standout feature of the ECOCool is its antimicrobial properties. It has been treated with an antimicrobial glass coating inside, ensuring a hygienic environment for your food and beverages.
The cool box also includes a dividing section that can be filled with water and frozen prior to your journey, helping to maintain a consistent temperature. It can be powered through your vehicle’s cigarette lighter socket, ensuring your items stay cold while on the move.
Overall, the Outwell ECOCool 35L Cool Box is a reliable and feature-packed cooling solution. Its cooling performance, convenient size, and antimicrobial properties make it a great choice for keeping your food and beverages refreshingly cool during outdoor trips.
Hi-Gear 28L Electric Camping Cooler
Best Budget Cooler
Type: Thermoelectric
Capacity: 28 L
What I like: Great value for money, dual power options
What I dislike: No internal divider
The Hi-Gear 28-Litre Electric Camping Cooler offers versatility, portability, and a spacious design, making it an excellent choice for keeping your food and drinks at the perfect temperature during car journeys, staycations, and camping trips.
With a generous 28-litre capacity, this electric cooler provides ample space for your essentials. The integrated handle allows for easy transportation, ensuring convenient access to its contents wherever you go.
Cleaning the cooler is a breeze, thanks to its hygienic wipe-clean exterior and interior. Maintaining a clean and sanitary electric coolbox is simple, adding to its overall appeal.
This cooler offers versatility in power options, as it can be connected to mains power or powered through a 12V in-car socket. This flexibility provides added convenience and accessibility. The lid of the cooler features convenient cable storage for both the 240V and 12V leads, keeping them neatly organized when not in use.
Measuring 46cm x 31cm x 43cm (HWD) and weighing 7.1kg, the Hi-Gear Electric Camping Cooler is designed with a compact and lightweight profile, allowing for easy transport and storage.
In summary, the Hi-Gear 28-Litre Electric Camping Cooler combines spaciousness, portability, and easy maintenance to deliver a practical cooling solution for your outdoor adventures. With its versatile power options and convenient cable storage, it ensures that your food and beverages stay cool and refreshing wherever your journey takes you.
Other Electric Cool Boxes to Consider
Andes Large 25L 12V/240V Cool Box
Campingaz thermoelectric cooling box, 12 V and 230 V
VonShef Electric Cool Box
BERG 45L Electric Portable Camping Fridge
Best Passive Cool Boxes
Passive cool boxes are a popular alternative and versatile cooling option which are both cost-effective and lightweight, as they don’t rely on electricity.
To keep items cool, they require ice packs. When used correctly, passive cool boxes can effectively maintain low temperatures for 24-48 hours and work best when filled to minimize warm air circulation.
Ideal for daily use, including picnics, festivals, day trips, or on the camp site, passive cool boxes offer a convenient cooling solution on the go.
Below are my top picks of passive cool boxes…
Thermos Cool Box
Dometic Cool-Ice
Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze Rolling Cooler
Coleman 28 QT Xtreme Cooler
Factors to Consider when Choosing a Camping Fridge
Before investing in a camping fridge, it’s essential to consider certain factors to ensure you select the right one for your needs. Here are some key considerations:
Size and Capacity
Camping fridges come in various sizes and capacities. Think about how much food and beverages you typically need to store during your trips. If you’re camping with a large group or for an extended period, a larger fridge with a higher capacity would be suitable. However, if you’re a solo camper or have limited space in your vehicle, a smaller and more compact camping fridge might be a better choice.
Power Source Options
Consider the available power sources when choosing a camping fridge. Most camping fridges can be powered by either 12-volt DC (car socket), 240-volt AC (household power), or both. Additionally, some models offer the flexibility of using solar panels or portable generators. Assess your camping preferences and ensure the fridge you select aligns with the power sources you have access to.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is an important factor to consider, especially if you plan to use your camping fridge for extended periods or in remote locations with limited power supply. Look for fridges with high energy efficiency ratings, as they will consume less power and help prolong the life of your batteries.
Durability and Portability
Since camping fridges are designed for outdoor use, durability is crucial. Look for fridges made from robust materials that can withstand rugged environments and resist impacts. Additionally, consider the weight and portability of the fridge, especially if you plan to move it frequently or carry it on trips that involve hiking or other physical activities.
Temperature Control and Features
Check the temperature control options and features offered by different camping fridges. Look for models that allow you to adjust and maintain precise temperature settings to suit various types of food and beverages. Additional features like digital displays, built-in LED lighting, removable baskets, and separate compartments can also enhance the functionality and convenience of your camping fridge.
Types of Camping Fridges
Camping fridges come in different types, each with its own unique features and advantages. Here are the main types to consider:
Compressor Fridges
Compressor fridges are the most common and versatile type of camping fridge. They use a compressor to actively cool down the interior and maintain the desired ambient temperature consistently. Compressor fridges offer excellent cooling performance, can operate on multiple power sources, and provide a wide temperature range. They are ideal for longer camping trips and for those who require precise temperature control.
Absorption Fridges
Absorption fridges, also known as 3-way fridges, are an alternative option for camping. They don’t rely on compressors or moving parts but rather use a heat source, such as gas, to create a cooling effect. Absorption fridges are generally quieter than compressor fridges and can operate on gas, 12-volt DC, or 240-volt AC power sources. However, they are less efficient and may not cool as quickly as compressor fridges.
Thermoelectric Fridges
Thermoelectric fridges are lightweight and portable options for camping. They use the Peltier effect to cool the interior, which means they don’t require compressors or gas. Thermoelectric fridges are powered by 12-volt DC or 240-volt AC power sources. While they are energy-efficient and eco-friendly, they are not as powerful as compressor fridges and may struggle to maintain low temperatures in hot ambient conditions.
Tips for Packing and Organizing Your Camping Fridge
Efficient packing and organization of your camping fridge can make a significant difference in your outdoor experience. Here are some helpful tips:
Use Insulated Bags or Containers
To maximize the cooling efficiency of your camping fridge, consider using insulated bags or containers for items like fruits, vegetables, and beverages. These can help maintain their temperature and reduce the load on the fridge.
Separate Raw and Cooked Food
To prevent cross-contamination, separate raw and cooked food items in your camping fridge. Use separate containers or sealable bags to avoid any potential risks of foodborne illnesses.
Arrange Items by Access Frequency
Organize your camping fridge by placing frequently accessed items in easily reachable areas. This will help minimize the time spent with the fridge open, reducing the amount of cool air that escapes.
Freeze Items in Advance
If you plan to bring frozen food items, consider freezing them before your trip. This will help pre-chill the fridge and keep other perishable items colder for longer.
Utilize Space Efficiently
Maximize the available space in your camping fridge by using square or rectangular containers instead of round ones. They can be arranged more efficiently, allowing you to fit more items inside.
Label and Date Items
Labelling and dating your food items can help you keep track of their freshness and ensure they are consumed before expiration. This will also help you avoid any wastage and maintain a well-organized camping fridge.
Recommended Reading
- Best Camping Stoves of 2023
- 17 Best Camping Meals: Breakfast, Dinner & Snack Ideas
- Best Freeze Dried Food for Hiking and Camping in 2023
Final Thoughts
An electric cool box or camping fridge is a valuable asset for outdoor enthusiasts who want to enjoy fresh food and beverages during their adventures.
By considering factors such as size, power source options, energy efficiency, durability, and temperature control, you can choose the perfect camping fridge that suits your needs and enhances your camping experience.
Investing in a reliable and efficient electric cool box, along with implementing proper care and organization, will ensure that you can keep your food and drinks cold during your camping adventures.
Camping Fridge FAQ
Can I run my camping fridge using a portable generator?
Yes, many camping fridges can be powered by portable generators. Ensure that the generator’s power output matches the requirements of your fridge and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
How long can a camping fridge run on battery power?
The runtime of a camping fridge on battery power depends on various factors, including the battery capacity, temperature settings, ambient temperature, and power consumption of the fridge. It’s advisable to have spare batteries or a power management system in place for longer trips.
How do I defrost my camping fridge?
To defrost your camping fridge, simply turn off the power and leave the door open. Allow the ice to melt naturally, and once the ice has completely melted, clean and dry the interior before restarting the fridge.
Can I use a camping fridge in my car while driving?
Yes, many camping fridges are designed to be used while driving. They typically have a built-in low-voltage cutoff system to protect your car battery. However, it’s essential to secure the fridge properly to prevent it from moving or tipping over during the journey.
About the Author
Steve Cleverdon is an adventure blogger dedicated to helping outdoor enthusiasts make the most of their outdoor experiences. With years of travel and many epic adventures including a 3000-kilometre solo hike across New Zealand, Steve has amassed practical knowledge on outdoor gear. You can learn more about his adventures here. Through expert reviews, recommendations, and guides, he equips his readers with the best gear for their next adventure. If you want to send Steve a quick message, visit his contact page here.
