Best Camping Fridge | From Hot To Not!
Check out our roundup of the top-rated camping fridges and get ready to keep cool during your next outdoor adventure!
Planning a camping trip and need to keep your food cold?
Traditional coolers just don't cut it for some people - that's where camping fridges come in. They can help make your trip more enjoyable by keeping all of your food cold and fresh.
When it comes to camping and keeping your food cold, a compressor camping fridge offers the best of both worlds. With superior portability and powerful cooling performance, these fridges are a must-have for any upcoming outdoor excursions.
In this article, we will review 5 of the best camping fridges on the market. We'll discuss what makes each one unique and how they can help make your next camping trip more enjoyable!
How We Picked
Camping is a ton of fun, but trying to keep your food cold can be a pain. You either have to bring a lot of ice, which melts and turns into a huge mess, or you have to eat everything right away.
Nobody wants to spend their camping trip running back and forth to the grocery store for ice or dealing with a soggy mess.
Check out our list of the best camping fridges on the market. We scoured the internet and read thousands of reviews to bring you the best camping fridges on the market. Any of these options will help keep your food and drinks ice cold without having to worry about getting ice.
Disclosure: We only recommend things we’ve personally used or come highly recommended by trusted peers. Using one of our referral links might give us a small commission which helps support this website at no additional cost to you. If you’d like to learn more check out our disclaimer page.
DOMETIC CFX3 75-Liter Dual Zone Portable Refrigerator and Freezer
Best in class
Why We Chose
Introducing DOMETIC, the ultimate solution for your cooling needs. It may look like a traditional ice chest, but this cooler has all the bells and whistles to make your life easier.
With their revolutionary, two-lid design, you'll never worry about cold air escaping again. What a genius move for improved efficiency and convenience.
DOMETIC’s built-in 100-watt power supply means you don't need to haul around heavy bags of ice. With its eye-catching design and large capacity, it’s perfect for camping trips, picnics, barbecues, and more.
Additionally, the cutting-edge technology means that you can run on either 120v AC outlet or a Jackery Power Supply with solar panels for those off-the-grid adventures.
And if that isn’t enough? Dometic’s reputation for quality products is nothing short of legendary in the RV and camper van world.
The Rundown
- Enjoy the convenience of dual-zone cooling- two compartments with individualized temperature settings, so you can chill your favorite drinks and snacks at just the right level.
- With its simple, intuitive interface and advanced technology at your fingertips, the High-Resolution Color Display and Soft Touch Buttons make for effortless control of cooler performance.
- Enjoy a reliable power source for your device with the convenience of AC, DC or Solar input and a dynamic battery protection system.
- CFX3 App makes managing temperature simple and reliable - no matter your location. Plus, get clear insights into performance with comprehensive history tracking.
Capacity: 75 liters | Weight: 71 pounds | Product Dimensions: 19.5 x 35.9 x 18.6 in
✔ Reliable brand
✔ Ability to control from app
✔ Dual temperature-controlled compartments
✔ Variety of sizes
✖️ Pricey
Why We Chose
Built like a tank and accessible both in your car or plugged into an AC power source, this fridge-freezer combo is perfect for anyone looking to keep their food and beverages cold during long journeys.
The app that comes with the fridge is user-friendly and does what it needs to - connect with your device - so you can adjust settings and monitor temperatures from afar. Plus, it works not only on 12V but AC power too.
Its impressive efficiency during a 27-hour test: consuming only 0.87A per hour on average, all while maintaining 37°F in 86°F ambient temperature.
With ARB Zero you get quality performance and subtle luxury. All at one convenient price, despite its expensive appearance. So don’t hesitate any longer; order yours today – because life isn't meant to be lived indoors!
The Rundown
This tough, rugged steel exterior is ready for any adventure you have in mind.
- Recessed carry handles add extra portability without compromising strength.
- With a fridge and freezer combo, you can say goodbye to the days of constant restocking during extended trips.
- Keep your perishables and devices chilled in style with portable fridges boasting a front AC connection for home or powered-site use.
- Keep an eye on the temperature panel on the exterior, or manage it wirelessly from Bluetooth-enabled gadgets using our free downloadable app.
Capacity: 73 qts | Weight: 72.8 pounds | Product Dimensions: 18.5 x 29.7 x 22.2 in
✔ Wireless monitoring and control from App
✔ Durable design
✔ Dual zone fridge freezer
✖️ Pricey
ICECO VL60 Dual Zone Portable Refrigerator with SECOP Compressor
Best for car camping
Why We Chose
ICECO makes some great portable refrigerators and this one is no different. Designed to keep temperatures consistent, while being easy to transport - so it's perfect for impromptu picnics or pool days.
Not only that, but it has plenty of space so you can fit in every one of your favorite treats!
The only downside is to do with the power connection when plugging it in, as it can become loose if knocked.
But fear not - a more secure connection would be ideal, but come on let's face it, at least we don't have to worry about burrowing our way into an igloo every time we want an icy beverage!
All in all, this product was made with your convenience and satisfaction in mind - giving you the best of both worlds.
The Rundown
- With dual zone and independent controls, you have the flexibility to tailor your cooling experience.
- Utilize refrigeration and freezing in any number of combinations - from one freezer combined with a refrigerator, two freezers or two fridges.
- Get exactly the temperature you need, with a cooling range ranging from 0°F to 50°F(-18℃~10℃).
- Choose between MAX mode or an ECO mode according to your preference - whether it's for fast chilling or greater energy efficiency.
- Featuring a tough metal shell and stainless steel hinges, thickened inner walls for optimal insulation and convenient interior lights to guide you in the dark.
Capacity: 63.4 qts | Weight: 65.7 pounds | Product Dimensions: 19.4 x 31.2 x 18.8 in
✔ Dual zone temperature control
✔ Sturdy metal outer shell
✔ 5-year compressor warranty
✖️ Some users have difficulty calibrating the temperature
BODEGA 12 Volt Refrigerator Dual Zone WIFI APP Control 53 Quart
Best bang for your buck
Why We Chose
This 12V refrigerator has two distinct temperature zones so you can chill your drinks on one side and keep your food fresh on the other. No more playing Tetris to fit everything in - there's plenty of space for it all.
The best part is, you can control the temperatures from anywhere with the WIFI app. Just adjust from 4℉ to 68℉ and let this smart fridge do all the hard work for you. And when we say smart, we mean it.
With thickened foam insulation, this refrigerator also conserves energy and will save you a few martinis at the end of the month.
The Rundown
- Two independently controlled temperature zones of 28.5L (30 Quart) and 21.5L (23 quart).
- Also equipped with WiFi support and its very own App control.
- This portable and efficient device comes equipped with a cigarette lighter connector, wall plug adapter, 2 baskets and even an LED light to find items in low-light settings.
- Plus it features a USB charging port and stretchable handles plus off-road wheels so you can take it wherever life takes you.
Capacity: 53 quart | Weight: 40.2 lbs | Product Dimensions: 28.46 x 18.03 x 14.17 in
✔ App controlled
✔ USB plug for charging
✔ Independent dual zone control
✖️ Unclear instructions
Why We Chose
If you’re looking for a truly “cool” way to keep your food cold and fresh on the go, then the Alpicool C15 is for you. This 15-quart capacity freezer has all the features you need when it comes to outdoor activities and road trips. Making it the perfect car refrigerator.
Not only does it fit into most vehicles, but its portability makes carrying it with you wherever you go super easy. Plus, its advanced cooling system can cool down contents quickly – even to temperatures as low as -4℉ so your food stays really fresh.
The Rundown
- Enjoy both cold and frozen beverages on-the-go! This fridge chills to an icy -4°F (-20°C), giving you the flexibility of being either a fridge or freezer.
- Easily manage your fridge with the LCD Control Panel: switch between Max and ECO modes, adjust the temperature settings to perfection, and monitor its performance.
- With Thick and High Density Foam Insulation, your food is sure to remain fresh.
- Protect your vehicle's battery from running out of juice with three-stage protection settings: High, Medium and Low.
Capacity: 16 quart | Weight: 18.92 lbs | Product Dimensions: 23.54 x 12.6 x 10.24 in
✔ Can be either fridge or freezer
✔ Vehicle battery protection
✔ Quiet operation
✔ Good value
✖️ Inaccurate temperature display
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you run a refrigerator while camping?
There are a few options for running a refrigerator while camping. One option is to use a 12-volt adapter to plug the fridge into your car's cigarette lighter.
Another option is to use a solar panel to generate power for the fridge. A third option is to use an inverter to convert the battery power into AC power that can be used to run the fridge.
Can you use a normal fridge in a tent?
Yes, you can use a normal fridge in a tent. You may need to use a generator or extension cords to provide enough power, but a normal fridge should work fine. Just be sure to keep it well ventilated so that it doesn't overheat.
What size fridge do I need for a family of 4 camping?
For a family of four, you'll need a fridge that can hold at least 60 quarts (15 gallons). That should be enough to store food and drinks for the entire trip.
If you're looking for something a little bit smaller, there are models that hold around 45 quarts (11 gallons) that would work well.
How long can a camping fridge run on a 12V battery?
It really depends on the fridge. If it's a small energy-efficient one, it could last up to 24 hours. But if it's a larger fridge, it might only last for 6-8 hours.
It's always best to consult with the manufacturer of your camping fridge to get an accurate estimate of how long it will run on a 12V battery.
Do camping fridges need ventilation?
Yes, camping fridges need ventilation. If the fridge doesn't get enough ventilation, the heat it produces will cause the compressor to overheat and fail. Additionally, if there's no ventilation and the fridge tightens up from the cold, moisture will build up inside and can cause damage to your food and fridge.
How much solar power do I need for a 12V fridge?
You would need at least a 180 watt solar panel to run a 12V fridge. A bigger panel would be better, especially if you plan on using other devices simultaneously or if you live in a sunnier climate.
Remember that the wattage rating of a solar panel is just an estimate; the actual output could be higher or lower depending on factors like sun exposure, temperature, and age of the panel.
Bottom Line
So there you have it, the best camping fridges on the market.
We scoured the internet and read thousands of reviews to give you a variety of choices that are sure to fit your needs on any camping adventure in the future.
And now that you know what to look for in a fridge, we're confident that you'll be able to find one that checks all the boxes for your next trip.
The worst thing about these is their price compared to something like the igloo BMX cooler. But I feel that it's worth the investment if you love camping and you factor in the convenience of not worrying about ice.
Check out our links to find the best camping fridge for your money and start planning your next adventure today!
Before You Go...
Post Moore
Russell Richardson Jr
Post Moore
