Whether you are a passionate outdoor enthusiast, a frequent traveler, or someone who simply enjoys the spontaneity of the open road, having a car refrigerator can enhance your adventures in unimaginable ways.
Which is the best car refrigerator? If this question boggles your mind, you have landed in the right place. Our article provides you with 6 suggestions for a car fridge. Moreover, a complete choosing guide will be attached. Don’t miss it!
Best Car Refrigerator – Top 6 Options
Best Overall: BougeRV CR22 12 Volt Refrigerator
Specifications
- Dimensions: 22.24” x 12.4” x 12.79”
- Weight: 22.4 lbs
- Capacity: 23 Quart (22L)
- Temperature range: -7℉ to 77℉
- Wattage: 45W
- Voltage: 12V
- Power Source: AC, DC
- Special feature: Memory
Review
If you are looking for an option with various features for your daily use without breaking the bank, the BougeRV CR22 can be an ideal item!
The BougeRV is a 12V portable car refrigerator that may also be used on RVs, boats, and trucks. Its quick cooling mechanism allows it to cool down from 77°F to 32°F in just 20 minutes. The best part is that this unit can double as a freezer, taking 50 minutes to reach -7°F from 77°F, so you can store ice or frozen treats for camping or going picnics.
This fridge also offers a shock-proof design to deal with uneven roads, running without issue even if there is a 30-degree inclination when off-road. It also incorporates a three-level battery monitor to keep the vehicle’s battery from depleting.
Its average size is a blessing and a curse. The model is appropriate for multiple uses without taking up too much space, but you can store more foods and drinks for longer trips.
Pros
- Easy to move
- Wide temperature range
- Have a three-level battery
- Dual functions (freezer and fridge) for more storing options
- Have a shock-proof design to preserve foods and beverages well on uneven roads
Cons
- Not suitable for long trips
- Not have a modern design
Best Versatile Appliance: Alpicool CF45 Portable Fridge Freezer
Specifications
- Dimensions: 13.6″ x 18.2″ x 27.2″
- Weight: 30 lbs
- Capacity: 45 Liters
- Temperature range: -4℉ – 68℉
- Wattage: 45W
- Voltage: 12V
- Power Source: DC, AC
- Special feature: Built-in LED light
Review
The Alpicool CF45 Portable Fridge Freezer is often regarded as one of the best versatile appliances due to its wide range of features and capabilities that cater to diverse needs.
Like the RougeRV, this product can function both as a fridge and a freezer, with a wide temperature range that allows it to freeze items or keep them cool as needed. But you can enjoy a double storage capacity with this fridge (45L compared to 22L). This versatility is particularly valuable when storing frozen goods, beverages, fruits, and vegetables.
The CF45 supports both AC (household power) and DC (car power) sources. This dual-power capability allows users to use the appliance at home, in vehicles, or with portable power stations. It ensures that the fridge freezer can be used in various settings, both indoor and outdoor adventures.
The CF45 is also designed to be energy-efficient, ensuring that it operates effectively while conserving power. This energy efficiency is crucial for extended outdoor use, where power sources may be limited, such as during camping trips or road adventures.
However, the length of the power cord might be a concern, especially if you need to place the fridge at a distance from the power source. An extension cord might be necessary in certain situations.
Pros
- Dual-power capability
- Wide temperature range
- Work well as a fridge and freezer
- Three battery levels to protect your car’s battery
Con
- Short power cord
Best For Outdoor Activities: ICECO JP40 Portable Car Fridge WIFI APP Control
Specifications
- Dimensions: 13.8″ x 5″ x 23″
- Weight: 38.8 lbs
- Capacity: 42.2 quarts (40 liters)
- Temperature range: 0℉ – 50℉
- Wattage: N/A
- Voltage: 12V
- Power Source: AC
- Special feature: WIFI APP Control
Review
The ICECO JP40 Portable Refrigerator with WiFi App Control is highly regarded for outdoor activities due to several key features that enhance its functionality, convenience, and suitability.
The ability to control the refrigerator remotely via a smartphone app provides unparalleled convenience for users. You can monitor and adjust the temperature, check the power status, and receive alerts, all from their mobile devices. This feature is especially useful during outdoor activities when you might be away from the refrigerator for extended periods.
The JP40 is built with durable materials, making it rugged and resistant to wear and tear. Its sturdy construction allows it to withstand the challenges of outdoor environments, including bumps, vibrations, and rough terrain.
The refrigerator can rapidly cool, ensuring that items placed inside reach the desired temperature quickly. This fast cooling performance is crucial for preserving the freshness of perishable items, especially in warm outdoor settings.
However, its capacity is not impressive (42 quarts). Therefore, if you plan to go on a long day trip, you need to plan in advance to prepare more thoroughly. Also, it can be challenging to carry this fridge due to its heavy profile.
Pros
- Feature a WiFi App control for easy adjustment for a far distance
- Fast cooling performance
- Quiet operation (43 dB)
- Durable materials
Cons
- Heavyweight
- Short temperature range
Best Storage Capacity: Setpower AJ50 Portable Freezer Fridge
Specifications
- Dimensions: 13.6″ x 20.67″ x 13.6″
- Weight: 37.7 lbs
- Capacity: 50 liters (53 Quarts)
- Temperature range: 0℉ – 50℉
- Wattage: 55 W
- Voltage: 12V
- Power Source: AC, DC
- Special feature: powered by a solar panel
Review
The SetPower AJ50 Portable Freezer Fridge is the best option on this list for capacity thanks to its generous storage space.
The AJ50 offers a substantial storage capacity of up to 50 liters. This allows users to store a significant amount of food, cans of cola, and other perishable items. Its spacious interior provides ample room for large quantities, making it suitable for extended trips, camping, and group outings.
The dual-zone functionality helps to set different temperatures in separate compartments. This feature enables versatile storage options. For example, you can use one zone as a freezer for frozen items and the other as a fridge for chilled goods, maximizing the overall storage capacity.
The internal fan and heat dissipation mess help circulate the cold air, not only optimizing the internal temperature and preserving perishables well but also extending the fridge’s shelf life. Still, it might produce a noticeable hum, which can bother some users, particularly in quiet surroundings.
Not to mention, the AJ50 is relatively bulky and heavy due to its large capacity. This can be a concern if you have limited space in your vehicle or if you need to carry it over long distances, especially if you need to move it frequently.
Pros
- Large capacity
- Can be powered by a solar panel
- Can set different temperatures in separate compartments
- Able to work when traversing slopes of up to 40 degrees
Cons
- Create noise
- Bulky and heavy
Best Design: Dometic CFX3 35 Portable Refrigerator and Freezer
Specifications
- Dimensions: 15.67″ x 27.32″ x 16.02″
- Weight: 37 lbs
- Capacity: 32 liters
- Temperature range: down to -7°F
- Wattage: N/A
- Voltage: 24 V
- Power Source: AC, DC
- Special feature: TFT display, can be controlled with CFX3 app
Review
The Dometic CFX3 35 Portable Refrigerator boasts the best design on our list. The fridge is built with many convenient features to optimize our user experience.
First of all, its design brings a luxurious feeling, suitable for those who love elegance. The high-resolution TFT display shows the current temperature, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth connection, and the voltage for easier control.
The brand utilizes high-quality materials: heavy-duty ExoFrame construction, improving its durability and ability to withstand rugged outdoor conditions. Its sturdy construction ensures longevity and reliability, even in challenging environments.
The item includes removable baskets and dividers, enabling you to customize the interior layout based on stored items. This flexibility allows for easy cleaning and reconfiguration of the space.
However, its size can only accommodate enough foods and beverages for one day. And the price tag might be a turn-off for some.
Pros
- Modern design
- Sturdy construction
- Removable parts for cleaning easily
Cons
- Slightly costly
- Limited capacity
Best For Portability & Budget: AstroAI Mini Fridge LY0204A
Specifications
- Dimensions: 9.45” x 6.9” x 10”
- Weight: 12 ounces
- Capacity: 4 liters
- Temperature range: 32°F to 150°F
- Voltage: 120 Volts (AC)
- Power Source: AC, DC
- Special feature: Freon-free
Review
The AstroAI Mini Fridge is designed to be handheld, making it ideal for use in various settings. Weighing at just 12 ounces, it can be used in cars, offices, dorm rooms, bedrooms, camping, or you can carry it anywhere with ease.
While the above products have handlebars on both sides for transporting with 2 hands, this AstroAI Mini Fridge comes with a handle grip on top, making it easy to carry with only one hand. The incredibly cheap price is also a huge bonus.
Though compact and affordable, the item offers enough space (4 liters) to store various items such as beverages, snacks, medications, or skincare products. It’s suitable for personal use and can hold 6 cans of beverages or small food items.
Many users also appreciate the AstroAI Fridge for its quiet operation. It operates with minimal noise at only 25dB or less. That’s why it is suitable for use in bedrooms or offices without causing disturbances.
However, its cooling capacity might not be as powerful as other larger refrigerators on our list, so it’s best for short-term use and keeping items cool rather than freezing them.
Pros
- A compact design
- Affordable price
- A quiet appliance
- Energy saving
Con
- Not good at freezing food
How to Choose a Car Refrigerator
Capacity and Size
The capacity of a car refrigerator is vital because it determines how much food, beverages, or other items you can store inside. Travelers often have varying needs.
Choosing a refrigerator with an appropriate capacity ensures you can carry an adequate amount of perishable items, especially for extended trips, camping adventures, or traveling with a group of people.
Enough space also allows for efficient organization, preventing overcrowding and maintaining proper airflow for consistent cooling.
Capacity will impact the size designed for the product. Car interiors come in various sizes, and available space can be limited, especially in smaller vehicles. Additionally, a properly sized refrigerator is more stable during travel, reducing the risk of accidents or damage caused by shaking or shifting.
Thus, depending on your car conditions and your demands, you may choose the proper capacity and size of a car refrigerator.
Temperature Control
Different items require different temperature settings. For instance, fruits and vegetables might require a slightly higher temperature than beverages or meats.
A car refrigerator with adjustable temperature settings allows you to customize the internal environment according to the items you’re storing, preventing freezing or overheating.
Remember to check the accuracy of the thermostat. Reliable car refrigerators have digital displays and sensors that provide precise temperature readings.
This feature ensures that the internal temperature remains consistent, minimizing fluctuations that could affect the freshness of your items.
Power Source
A car refrigerator that supports multiple power sources (DC and AC power, and sometimes even solar power) provides flexibility. You can use the refrigerator in your car while driving (using DC power), in your home or hotel room (using AC power), and in remote locations where electricity might not be available (using solar power).
This versatility ensures that your car refrigerator is not limited to specific situations or locations. Choose one that suits your power requirements and the availability of power sources during your road trips.
Insulation
Effective insulation minimizes temperature fluctuations inside the refrigerator, which can lead to uneven cooling, potentially spoiling food and beverages.
Consistent temperature is especially important for items like medications or perishable food, ensuring they remain safe for consumption or use.
High-density foam or polyurethane insulation is often preferred for its excellent insulating properties. These materials effectively trap cold air inside the fridge, preventing external heat from entering.
Thicker insulation generally provides better thermal efficiency. Check the specifications to find out the thickness of the insulation layer in the refrigerator.
Additional Features
When choosing a car refrigerator, there are several additional features that you may consider, depending on your specific needs and preferences. Here are some add-ons you should consider:
- Interior lighting: LED interior lighting makes it easy to find items in the dark for nighttime use.
- App connectivity: Certain high-end models offer app connectivity, allowing you to monitor and control the refrigerator remotely.
- Low-power mode: A low-power mode reduces energy consumption during operation, extending the life of your vehicle’s battery.
Conclusion
Selecting the best car refrigerator involves considering various factors tailored to individual needs and preferences. This list of 6 best refrigerators for cars helps narrow down your search.
If you cannot decide, let’s refer to our best overall: the BougeRV 12 Volt Refrigerator. It can work wonders for most users’ demands. Assess your specific requirements, such as storage needs, power source availability, and intended use, before making a choice.
