Best Portable Camping Refrigerator 2023 [Expert Reviewed]
Last updated on September 21st, 2023 at 07:59 am
Having a memorable experience is the goal when departing for the great outdoors. Because food and drinks are a crucial part of the puzzle, bringing the best portable camping refrigerator for the money is sure to go a long way.
There are several brands and models to choose from- and they are not made equal. If choosing seems daunting for you, our reviews of the best portable camping refrigerator this year may help narrow down your search.
Editor’s Picks
- Top Rated- BougeRV 12 Volt Refrigerator- Get Best Price
- Best Efficiency- AstroAI 12 Volt Car Refrigerator-Get Best Price
- Best Compact- Wagan EL6206 12V 6 Quart Refrigerator –Get Best Price
Best Portable Camping Refrigerator to Buy in 2023
I absolutely love the BougeRV fridges, or as you may prefer to call them, ice chests! These remarkable appliances are the pioneers of dual-system refrigeration, making them an ideal companion for any outdoor escapade. Equipped with an innovative IceDrive™ system and a convenient dual zone control, it allows you to effortlessly configure the freezer and refrigerator settings to suit your needs. Just imagine the sheer indulgence of having ice cream and chilled beverages at your fingertips no matter where you wander!
The IceDrive™ System can reach 0°F in 30 minutes and maintain temperatures as low as -9°F. Don’t compromise during your outdoor adventures. Get the BougeRV Aspen 30 12V 34 quart portable fridge for fresh, ice-cold food and drinks on the go!
BougeRV 12 Volt Refrigerator
Key Specs
- Dimensions: 22.24 x 12.4 x 12.79 inches
- Weight: 22.4 pounds
- Voltage: 12 Volts (DC)
- Capacity: 23 Quarts
- Number of Doors: 1
- Consumption: less than 45W
BougeRV 12 Volt Refrigerator tops our list of the best portable camping refrigerators. It is a budget-friendly portable camping refrigerator available in different colors. This top camping refrigerator runs on AC 110/240 Volts and DC 12/24 Volts.
The BougeRV measures 12.6 inches wide, 912.2 inches deep, and 22.2 inches tall. Compression technology allows this refrigerator to cool from 77 to 32 degrees in less than 15 minutes.
Like the old model, this portable refrigerator has Max and Eco modes that help ensure optimal performance.
AstroAI 12 Volt Car Refrigerator
Key Specs
- Dimensions: 12.6 x 22.2 x 9.8 inches
- Weight: 22 pounds
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Capacity: 16 Quarts
- Number of Doors: 1
- Consumption: 130 Kilowatt
The AstroAI 12 Volt portable refrigerator brings the comfort of home when on any adventure. Its LED display helps ensure easy temperature checking and operation in poorly lit areas. It does have a USB port, which allows one to charge their phone.
This mini fridge for camping has a powerful compressor capable of cooling to 32°F in 15 minutes. You can always switch between ECO and MAX modes to save energy or ensure fast cooling. It uses its power cooler to function as a freezer and a fridge.
It comes with three power-saving modes, low, medium, and high, to help regulate power consumption to the correct levels. To ensure seamless use, it uses a 100V-240V AC and 12V/24V DC adapter, ensuring you can use it even with a portable power bank.
Wagan EL6206 12V 6 Quart Refrigerator
Key Specs
- Dimensions: 11 x 15 x 8 inches
- Weight: 5.5 pounds
- Voltage: 12 Volts
- Capacity: 6 Quart
- Number of Doors: 1
- Consumption: 48 Watts
Wagan EL6206 12V 6 is an excellent portable refrigerator that can help keep your foods and drinks warm or cool and easily accessible when camping. It occupies a minimal amount of space in your vehicle. This best fridge for camping is exceptionally stable thanks to its short and wide design.
The capability of this refrigerator to warm or cool items is one of its best features. It has a cooling capacity of up to 20°C below the room temperature while it can heat up to 60°C. This refrigerator is also earth-friendly as it does not have any CFC, hence nothing to deplete the ozone or leak out. It simply uses thermoelectric cooling, a straightforward electrical current transfer.
The adjustable carrying strap lets you quickly transport it to and from the vehicle. This makes it more convenient to move around with it when out there camping.
Considerations When Choosing the Best Portable Camping Refrigerator
Type: 2-Way vs 3-Way
There are two types of portable camping refrigerators: two-way and three-way portable fridges. The two-way portable camping refrigerator can run on a 12-volt battery or mains electricity. A three-way refrigerator adds LPG as a third power source option.
When shopping for a portable camping refrigerator, remember the available power source and which suits you best. Purchasing a portable camping refrigerator according to the energy source will help save you from great hustle.
Temperature Control
Temperature control is an essential feature you should never forget when in the market for a portable refrigerator for camping. Go for a fridge that has adjustable temperature settings and a digital display. With this, you can keep your drinks and food at the right temperature.
Capacity and Size
Before purchasing a portable camping fridge, you must know your needs and how many people will be with you. Know your vehicle size and what space is available for the refrigerator. In most cases, a large camping fridge will be preferable. However, they consume lots of space and power.
Durability
No one will want to spend their hard-earned cash on a refrigerator that will not last long. Settle on a fridge made from strong and long-lasting materials. Such a fridge will be capable of withstanding the camping rigors.
Cost
The price of a portable camping refrigerator will depend on its capacity, type and power source. To ensure you make an informed decision, consider the frequency of use and how much you are willing to spend. Ensure you weigh the cost against other factors like interior lighting, in-built freezers, and removable baskets. These features help in organizing the drinks and food.
