There’s no denying the fact that, unlike cooler boxes, the best camping fridges do come with a hefty price tag. But if you’re going on a road trip, and want to be self-sufficient (and keep your beers cold) then the best camping refrigerators are worth the investment.
While the best camping fridge cooler can work for short trips, and ice is available to buy in most places, what happens if you want to go off the beaten track where ice is unavailable? Plus, aren’t you going to get tired of waterlogged food or drinks?
If you’re looking for a better solution, a camping fridge is the way to go. So read on for our top 11 picks, we’re sure you’ll find one that’s right for you.
Best Camping Fridges This Year: Our Criteria and Results
The best portable fridges for camping give you the comforts of home while out in the wilds. They allow you to store cold or even frozen foods without the need of buying ice, which even with the best of coolers will melt and make everything go soggy.
We’ve put together the following list of our best camping fridges to take some of the guesswork, and the legwork out of it for you.
Make sure you click on the links below to get the latest price of any of the camping fridges that takes your fancy.
| Brand | Model | Top Advantage | Top Disadvantage | Quick Links | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Pick |   | Dometic | CFX3 | Features a 3-stage dynamic battery protection system that prevents dead batteries. | Can only be used as a fridge OR a freezer at any one time. | Click to check price |
| Runner Up |   | ICECO | VL Series | Powerful compressor for quick chilling or freezing. | No Bluetooth or app capabilities. | Click to check price |
| Also Consider |   | ARB | Zero Portable Fridge Freezer | Solid, high quality construction. | Expensive. | Click to check price |
| 4 |   | Bodega | 12v Portable Car Fridge & Freezer | Can be used as both fridge and freezer at the same time. | There are reports of interior temperatures fluctuating. | Click to check price |
| 5 |   | BougeRV | 12v Car Refrigerator | Features dual compartments with separate temperature controls. | The center divider is not removable. | Click to check price |
| 6 |   | Alpicool | CF 12v Portable Fridge Freezers | High density foam insulation helps to maintain temperatures. | Cannot be used as both a fridge and freezer at the same time. | Click to check price |
| 7 |   | Engel | MR040F-U1 40Q AC/DC Portable Tri-Voltage Fridge Freezer | Most vibration resistant compressor on the market. | Only comes in one size. | Click to check price |
| 8 |   | Smad | 3 Way Fridge Freezer. | 3 way fridge means that it runs on AC, DC & propane gas. | 3 way fridges do not get as cold as 2 way fridges | Click to check price |
| 9 |   | Whynter | FMC-350XPPortable Refrigerator | Has an adjustable temperature range of -8°F to 50°F (-23 – 10°C). | No Bluetooth or WiFi for remote control. | Click to check price |
| 10 |   | AstroAI | 12 Volt Car Fridge & Portable Freezer | Tall, slim design easily fits into most vehicles. | Does not have dual controls. | Click to check price |
| Avoid This One |   | Koolatron | Thermoelectric Iceless 12V Cooler/Warmer 36qt (34L) | Can be used as a classic chest-style cooler or on its side as a front-opening mini-fridge | 110V adapter sold separately. | Click to check price |
As you can see there’s a lot of camping fridges out there. So how do you choose which one is right for you?
Keep reading the next section which gives you our criteria of how we choose and some top tips about what to look out for in the best portable fridges for camping.
How We Select The Best Camping Fridges
You can’t just go out and buy the first camping fridge you see. There’s a few things to consider first, like the space in your vehicle, how many people you need to feed and your source of power, to name a few.
The following are the criteria that we consider when choosing the best camping fridges:
Size & Capacity
Larger camping fridges have greater capacity to feed and quench your family’s thirst. However, the larger the camping refrigerator the more space it will take up in your vehicle.
Before you start looking for your camping fridge, you need to measure where you are going to install the fridge inside your vehicle to make sure it will fit.
Weight
Bigger fridges with bigger capacity means hauling around extra weight. Together with all your camping gear, outdoor toys and including any passengers, the weight soon adds up.
So make sure you know your vehicle’s gross vehicle mass (GVM) to make sure you don’t overload your vehicle.
Source Of Power
Different types of portable camping fridges have different sources of power. 2-way camping fridges run on 12 volts or mains electricity, while 3-way portable fridges can run on either sources of electricity or gas.
12 volt electricity comes from your vehicle’s battery. But, you shouldn’t link up your portable camping fridge to your car starter battery as you run the risk of draining your battery, which means trouble in remote parts (or indeed anywhere).
If your vehicle doesn’t already have one, you may need to install an extra ‘house’ battery.
However, if you don’t have the space to install an extra battery, then don’t despair. There are camping fridges available that will shut down when the battery capacity is low, to save you from getting stranded.
For RV’s, vanlife or longer camping trips, you could also consider a simple solar set-up or a generator to keep your batteries charged and ticking over.
Brand
Once you’ve decided on the size and type of camping fridge you want, then it’s time to narrow things down by brand – there are many different brands of camping fridges out there and new brands are popping up all the time.
We recommend looking for brands that have a solid reputation for making durable camping fridges that work and won’t let you down.
Customer Reviews
Last, but not least, we check out customer reviews over a number of the most popular camping websites and online stores like Amazon. After all, there’s no better source of information than from the very customers who have bought and tested the products.
So now you know our criteria and what to look for, let’s take a look at the actual fridges we have selected.
11 Best Camping Fridges in 2023: No More Spoiled Chow!
With so many camping fridges to choose from, we’ve narrowed it down for you. The following are what we think are the best camping fridges available today. So read on, you’re sure to find one that fits both your vehicle and your budget.
Top Pick – Dometic CFX3
Advantages:
- Features a 3-stage dynamic battery protection system that prevents dead batteries
- Available in sizes from 37 to 106 quarts (25 – 100 liters)
Disadvantages:
- Can only be used as a fridge OR a freezer at any one time
- Price is on the high side
The Dometic CFX3 range of 12 volt portable camping fridges are some of the best available on the market today. They feature the same compressor technology that your ‘real’ fridge at home uses, which ensures that your drinks are cold and your perishables are kept fresh.
These fridges are extremely energy efficient and feature the latest technology controls via the CFX3 App. This means you can control temperatures and power your fridge on and off via your phone.
These heavy duty, lightweight portable camping fridges feature ExoFrame construction and aluminum alloy handles that will stand up to any conditions. Price wise they are at the top end of the camping fridge spectrum, but if you want the very best then they’re worth it.
Sounds good? Then click on the link below for the latest price.
No need to pick the first one – we’ve got plenty of more options!
Runner-Up – ICECO VL Series 12 Volt Fridges
Advantages:
- Powerful compressor for quick chilling or freezing
- Comes with a 5 year warranty on the compressor and 1 year warranty on all other parts
Disadvantages:
- No Bluetooth or app capabilities
- There are reports of the temperature setting not being accurate
ICECO is a brand that specializes in portable fridges for vehicles, whether you are going on a road trip, camping or using your van or RV for longer periods. While not as well known as Dometic, this brand is up there.
The ICECO VL Series of fridges range in size from the VL45 up to the VL74 so you’re sure to find the right size for your needs.
These 12 volt fridges have a rugged, almost military-like quality with their metal shell and thickened inner walls for great insulation. Plus they contain a powerful compressor to meet all your refrigeration or freezing needs.
They also feature convenient interior lights for easy access in the dark plus two removable wire baskets to allow quick emptying and restocking of the fridge.
While the ICECO VL series doesn’t feature Bluetooth or an app, who really needs this anyway?
Interested? Then click on the link below for all the details.
But check out more of our options below before you make a decision.
Also Consider – ARB Zero Portable Fridge Freezer
Advantages:
- Solid, high quality construction
- Available in sizes from 38 – 101 qts (36 – 95 liters) , and both single and dual zone
Disadvantages:
- Expensive
- Reviewers complain about the Bluetooth app not functioning properly
ARB is a top Australian brand that has been making rugged 4×4 accessories designed for the Australian outback since 1975. So you could say that this is a pretty reliable brand. Nowadays their products are available worldwide.
The range of ARB Zero portable fridge freezers come with a highly efficient variable speed compressor to get temperatures down fast. With a temperature range from -7.6 to 50°F (-22 – 10°C), these camping fridges will keep your food and drinks at your perfect temperature.
These camping fridges feature quick release lids with non-slip surfaces, easy view LED displays, anti-condensation technology, a LED interior light, internal baskets and many more features including Bluetooth temperature controls.
This is one of the best portable refrigerators for camping that other brands strive to compete with. But don’t take our word for it, click on the link below for more details and the latest price.
So far, we’ve given you some of the premium brands, so keep reading for some more budget friendly options.
Bodega 12v Portable Car Fridge & Freezer
Advantages:
- Can be used as both a fridge and freezer at the same time
- Excellent value
Disadvantages:
- There are reports of interior temperatures fluctuating
- Reviews complain of poor customer service
The Bodega 12v portable car fridge and freezer has many of the features of the premium camping fridge brands, but with a more affordable price tag. Plus the Bodega has dual function so you can use it as both a camping refrigerator and freezer at the same time.
It features a powerful compressor for fast cooling from -4 to 68℉ (-20 to 20℃), however, if you want to store frozen food the manufacturer recommends that you pre-cool this fridge freezer before you travel.
While this fridge freezer has 2 compartments which can be used with separate temperature controls, it also includes a removable divider so the interior can be used as one big refrigerator space.
Other features include dual storage baskets, 2 wheels and a friendly retractable handle designed for easy portability, a USB socket for charging your mobile phone and it offers both manual controls and an app control from your phone.
Make sure you click the link below – you won’t believe you get all this for the price.
But don’t buy just yet, we still have some more options for you.
BougeRV 12v Car Refrigerator
Advantages:
- Features dual compartments with separate temperature controls
- 3-level voltage car battery protection
Disadvantages:
- The center divider is not removable
- New brand so no information about long term reliability
BougeRV is a company that sells solar setups, outdoor appliances and more recently, 12v car refrigerators. But can the BougeRV 12v car refrigerator compete with the top of the line brands mentioned above? The answer is yes, it can.
This fridge/freezer can be used in a variety of combinations as both compartments have separate temperature controls and each can be used as both a fridge or a freezer.
Other features include app control, a detachable lid, cup slots, chopping board and even a bottle opener!
This versatile camping fridge cools down relatively quickly, although it’s not quite as efficient as the top brands. But for the price, we think you will hardly notice the difference.
In addition, BougeRV gives a 2 year warranty on the compressor which can be extended to 3 years if you register your portable camping fridge with their BougeRV Club. BougeRV might be a relatively new company, but they mean business.
Interested? Then click on the link below for all the details.
Still unsure which to pick? Keep reading for some more options.
Alpicool CF 12v Portable Fridge Freezers
Advantages:
- High density foam insulation helps to maintain temperatures
- LCD display gives digital temperature readings
Disadvantages:
- Cannot be used as both a fridge and freezer at the same time
- Not great temperature control
While Alpicool may not be as well known as some of the other top brands they shouldn’t be overlooked. The Alpicool CF range of 12v fridges offer both fridge or freezer functions at half the price of some of the premium brands.
These Alpicool portable fridges come in a range from 35 to 55 liters and is one of the most affordable fridges that features a compressor. Other features include high density foam insulation, a built in LED light and an internal basket.
While it’s advertised to go down to -4°F (-20°C) after running it for a full day it did not get down to this low temperature. So we’re not quite sure that this fridge will keep your goodies frozen on a hot day.
However, if you’re looking for a budget friendly option to use as a fridge, then this camping fridge is a good choice.
Make sure you click on the link below for all the specifications and the latest price.
Still not found what you’re looking for? Then keep reading for some more great options.
ENGEL MR040F-U1 40 Qt AC/DC Portable Tri-Voltage Fridge/Freezer
Advantages:
- Most vibration resistant compressor on the market
- Made from tough, corrosion resistant ABS plastic
Disadvantages:
- Only comes in one size
- No digital display or app control
Engel has been a leading heavy duty, portable fridge brand for more than 50 years. So if you’re looking for a tough, reliable brand then look no further. Some owners claim to have been running their Engel fridges for years!
While Engel may be lacking some of the latest digital features like LED displays and mobile apps, they more than make up for it with their functionality and reliability.
For starters, this fridge is powered with the Engel Swing Motor Compressor, which is one of the best compressors on the market today.
In addition, this portable fridge is made from tough, corrosion resistant ABS plastic which means it can withstand the toughest of conditions, and won’t rust, even in a marine environment.
The Engel portable camping fridge also works on DC (for battery power) as well as AC (mains power). The DC function will run on either 12 volts or 24 volts while the AC function will work on both 110 volts and 120 volts.
This portable fridge is perfect to use out at sea, or on the road (especially for a long trip) or even in the comfort of your own home. But don’t take our word for it, click on the link below for all the details.
But keep on reading, we still have some more great camping fridges for you to choose from.
Smad 3.5 Cu.ft. Propane Refrigerator 3 Way Gas/110V/12V Refrigerator with Freezer for RV Camper
Advantages:
- 3 way fridge means that it runs on AC, DC & propane gas
- These fridges last a long time
Disadvantages:
- 3 way fridges do not get as cold as 2 way fridges
- Front opening and bulky
Are you looking for the best 3 way camping fridge for your van or RV? Then look no further than this Smad 3 Way Refrigerator.
3-way fridges, also known as absorption fridges, have 3 ways of being powered to keep your food and drinks chilled. These methods include the use of 12 volts (battery), 240 volts (mains) and gas.
The Smad 3 Way Refrigerator is a front loading camping fridge that can be permanently installed in your van or RV, or you can use it for off-grid living. 3 way fridges are known to run super quiet, so it can even be installed in your sleeping area.
This Smad features removable wire shelves, door shelves and even a small freezer compartment on the inside. In fact, it’s one of the best upright camping fridges that looks just like a smaller version of your fridge back home.
Quick tip; While it comes with a free pressure regulator, if you’re planning to use gas, don’t forget to pick up a regulator hose as this is not included in the box.
Click on the link below to get the latest price.
Still not the right one? Then keep reading!
Whynter FMC-350XP Portable Refrigerator
Advantages:
- Has an adjustable temperature range of -8°F to 50°F (-23 – 10°C)
- Features a Fast Freeze mode
Disadvantages:
- No Bluetooth or WiFi for remote control
- Only comes in one size
The 34-quart Whynter FMC-350XP portable camping fridge only comes in one size, but it’s big enough to pack food and drinks for an all-day excursion for you and your family.
Your passengers will appreciate the space-saving design too, as it won’t make anyone feel too cramped on long road trips.
With its temperature range, this portable refrigerator can be used as a fridge or a freezer and it features a ‘fast freeze’ mode that will quickly cool things down to -8°F even on warm days.
Other features include 2 removable baskets, a non-slip mat to prevent spills, an integrated LED light, a USB port plus another feature we like, an open door alarm to alert you if the door/lid has accidentally been left open and you’re losing temperature.
Click on the link below to get the latest price.
Still haven’t found the right camping fridge? We still have a couple more to go.
AstroAI 12 Volt Car Refrigerator & Portable Freezer
Advantages:
- Tall, slim design easily fits into most vehicles
- Powerful compressor gives quick cooling and freezing times
Disadvantages:
- Does not have dual controls for the separate compartments
- There are reports of this unit being quite loud
The AstroAI car refrigerator and portable freezer comes in 3 different sizes, 37 quarts (35 liters), 48 quarts (45 liters) and 58 quarts (55 liters) for your convenience.
Included in the box is a 12/24V DC and 100V to 240V AC adapter so that you can cool your food and drinks with this portable refrigerator at home, in your car or on a camping trip. You can even use it outdoors with a portable power bank.
While the 2 compartments do not offer dual controls, the powerful compressor gives quick chilling times. Plus you can use it in ECO or MAX mode depending on your cooling needs and power source.
Other features include 3 levels of battery protection so you don’t have to worry about running your battery flat, a LED display panel for easy temperature adjustment and interior LED light. The one thing it does miss is wheels for easy transportation.
Interested? Click on the link below for the latest price.
Still haven’t found what you’re looking for? Then read on for our final pick.
Koolatron Thermoelectric Iceless 12V Cooler/Warmer 36 qt (34 L)
Advantages:
- Can be used as a classic chest-style cooler or on its side as a front-opening mini-fridge
- Very fuel efficient; uses less power than a compressor fridge
Disadvantages:
- 110V adapter sold separately
- No wheels, making transportation when it’s full difficult
The Koolatron Thermoelectric Cooler/Warmer has a 36 quart (34 liter) capacity which means this 12V powered cooler/warmer has plenty of space for chilling your food and drinks.
It plugs into any 12V outlet as it comes with a 12V DC adapter so you can use it in your car, truck or boat. It is also compatible with AC power for use indoors, however, the 110V adapter is sold separately.
This unique cooler features a versatile two-way design where the secure magnetic door and removable shelves lets you position it either as a classic chest-style cooler or on its side as a front-opening mini-fridge.
While Koolatron is a proudly Canadian company that has been manufacturing industry leading 12V coolers in North America for over 30 years, based on the reviews this is one to avoid.
But don’t take our word for it – click on the link below for all the details.
So there you have it, our top 11 picks for the best portable fridges available on the market today. We’ve tried to cover a wide selection of price points so you can choose a camping fridge that fits your budget.
Still unsure which to buy? Then read on for our final results.
Summary: Our Final Results and Picks for the Best Camping Fridges Available Today
Each of the best camping fridges listed in this article have their pros and cons and different price tags. If you’re still unsure which to pick, we’ve narrowed it down even further for you and put together a summary of our top 3.
Check out our final selection below and click on the links for the latest price.
| Ranking | Brand | Model | Why We Liked It | Link To Purchase | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Pick | | Dometic | CFX3 | Heavy-duty, lightweight ExoFrame construction and aluminum alloy handles will stand up to any conditions. | Click to check price |
| Runner Up | | Engel | MR040F-U1 40Q AC/DC Portable Tri-Voltage Fridge Freezer | Most vibration resistant compressor on the market. | Click to check price |
| Best Budget Option | | BougeRV | 12v Car Refrigerator | Features dual compartments with separate temperature controls and it’s good looking to boot too. | Click to check price |
There are clearly a lot of camping fridges in the market today, but we’ve identified the best price points for a variety of the best camping fridges so you don’t have to.
Click the link on the camping fridge that you’re most interested in to check the price, because you never know, it could be on sale at this time of the year.
People Also Ask
Which fridge is best for camping?
The best fridges for camping need to be robust, have a low energy consumption and be portable.
However, the best camping fridges for you will be an entirely personal choice and will depend on things like the space in your vehicle, your budget and how you plan to use it.
You will find that compressor fridges are the most popular camping fridges. This is due to their low energy consumption and their high cooling efficiency.
You can’t go wrong with popular brands such as Dometic and Engel, who are both well known for their compressor-driven fridges.
How big of a fridge do you need for camping?
Ultimately the size of your camping fridge will be dictated by the space in your vehicle. One of the first things to do when looking for the best camping fridge is to measure the space where you want it to fit. Don’t forget to take into consideration the space for the lid to open!
Next, you need to consider how often you will use your camping fridge and how many people the fridge needs to support.
Do you just need a couple of cold beers after a long drive, are you and your family going camping for the weekend, or are you planning a longer road trip?
On average a couple will use a 45 to 50 quarts (47 – 52 liters) size camping fridge, and if you’re a family or a bunch of friends you will need to go bigger, especially if you plan to camp for longer than a weekend.
What size fridge do I need for a family of 4 camping?
Again, the size of your fridge for a family of 4 camping will depend on the space in your vehicle and what you want to store in your camping fridge.
If you pack powdered milk and tinned goods you will need less space than if you want to bring fresh veggies, dairy and a ton of frozen meat. In addition, you will need to factor in the length of your trip and whether you can restock along the way.
On average a family of 4 will need a camping fridge that is 60 quarts (57 liters) and above. Luckily, most brands today have an assortment of different camping fridge sizes to meet your requirements.
How do you power a fridge when camping?
Generally there are 4 main ways of powering your fridge when camping. These include battery power, solar power, a generator or mains electricity from a serviced or powered campsite.
But how you power your fridge when camping will also depend on how long you plan to stay away.
For overnight camping or weekends away then your car’s starter battery may suffice. However, if you are planning on longer camping jaunts then you will need to look at alternative power sources.
A second battery, or ‘house’ battery can be installed on your vehicle. This will work for larger vehicles like vans or RV’s where you have more space, but is not really feasible in a car or SUV. You could also consider a solar setup or a small portable generator.
Alternatively, a bit of planning could mean that you stay in powered campsites along your route.
Does a camping fridge need ventilation?
Whether a camping fridge needs ventilation will depend on the type of camping fridge you buy.
Compressor camping fridges generally don’t need special ventilation as they use fans to draw air and cool down the compressor. However, if conditions are hot you will need to make sure there is enough airflow on all sides of the fridge to enable it to keep itself cool.
However, if you are using a 3-way or an absorption fridge you will need additional ventilation for the gas function to remove any fumes.
Summary: Our Final Results and Picks for the Best Camping Fridges Available Today
Each of the best camping fridges listed in this article have their pros and cons and different price tags. If you’re still unsure which to pick, we’ve narrowed it down even further for you and put together a summary of our top 3.
Check out our final selection below and click on the links for the latest price on Amazon.
| Ranking | Brand | Model | Why We Liked It | Link To Purchase | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Pick | | Dometic | CFX3 | Heavy-duty, lightweight ExoFrame construction and aluminum alloy handles will stand up to any conditions. | Click to check price |
| Runner Up | | Engel | MR040F-U1 40Q AC/DC Portable Tri-Voltage Fridge Freezer | Most vibration resistant compressor on the market. | Click to check price |
| Best Budget Option | | BougeRV | 12v Car Refrigerator | Features dual compartments with separate temperature controls and it’s good looking to boot. | Click to check price |
There are clearly a lot of camping fridges in the market today, but we’ve identified the best price points for a variety of the best camping fridges so you don’t have to.
Click the link on the camping fridge that you’re most interested in to check the price, because you never know, it could be on sale at this time of the year.
