Car Fridges

Car fridges, also known as portable fridges or cool boxes, are compact refrigerators designed to keep food and drinks cold while you’re on the go. They’re a great option for road trips, camping trips, picnics, and other outdoor activities.

car fridge

Popular Features of Car Fridges

  • Digital Thermostats: These provide precise temperature control and easy monitoring. Many models display both the current and target temperature, allowing you to fine-tune cooling for optimal performance.
  • cupholders and Can Dispensers: Built-in cupholders and can dispensers prevent spills and keep drinks organised, especially during bumpy rides. No more loose cans rolling around!
  • Energy Efficiency Ratings: Just like home appliances, car fridges have energy efficiency ratings. These ratings indicate how much power the fridge consumes, impacting battery usage. Understanding these ratings can help you choose a more economical option for your needs. Different rating systems may apply depending on your location, so do some research to understand yours.
  • Additional Features: Look for car fridges with features like:
    • Reversible Doors: This feature allows you to open the car fridge door from either side, increasing convenience depending on car model and placement.
    • USB Charging Ports: Some car fridges offer USB ports to charge your phone or other devices while on the go. This can be a helpful feature for long road trips.
    • Digital Thermostats: Digital thermostats provide precise temperature control and easy monitoring. They often display both the current and target temperature, allowing for adjustments to optimise cooling performance.
    • cupholders and Can Dispensers: Built-in cupholders and can dispensers prevent drinks from spilling and keep them organised, especially during bumpy rides.
    • Removable Shelves: Removable shelves allow for easier cleaning and organising your food and drinks within the car fridge.
    • Interior Lighting: Interior lighting provides better visibility inside the fridge, especially when searching for items at night.
    • Carrying Handles and Straps: Carrying handles and straps make it easier to transport your car fridge, especially useful for picnics and outdoor activities.

Why Choose a Car Fridge?

  • Beat the Heat: No more soggy sandwiches or lukewarm drinks! Car fridges keep your food and beverages perfectly chilled, even on the hottest summer days.
  • Picnic Perfection: Pack worry-free for beach trips, barbecues in the park, or spontaneous adventures. Your car fridge ensures your snacks and drinks stay fresh and delicious.
  • Road Trip Rockstar: Hitting the road for a long journey? A car fridge lets you stock up on healthy snacks and drinks, saving you money on overpriced motorway services.
  • Versatility is Key: Many car fridges can also function as coolers, keeping your goodies chilled even without a power source for shorter outings.

Choosing the Perfect Car Fridge 

There’s a car fridge out there for every budget and travel style. Here are some key factors to consider:

  • Size: How much space do you have in your car, and how much food and drink do you typically need to store?
  • Power Source: Will you primarily use your car fridge on 12V power from your cigarette lighter, or do you need a model that can also run on mains electricity? Some even have built-in batteries for short-term use without a power source.
  • Cooling Technology: There are two main types: thermoelectric and compressor. Thermoelectric fridges are quieter and more affordable, but they can’t get as cold as compressor models.
  • Features: Do you require a fridge with a built-in freezer compartment? Some models even have handy extras like cupholders and adjustable shelves.

Learn more fridge key terms

Our Top Picks

  1. Best 12v car fridge 15L — Alpicool C15 Car Fridge
  2. Best 12v 50l car fridge – Smad 12V 50L Caravan Fridge [Upgraded]
  3. Best 36L car fridge — Bodega 36L Car Fridge
  4. Best 40L car fridge cooler — DOMETIC ACX3 40G Portable Absorption Cool box – 41L
  5. Best car fridge freezer 30L — Alpicool CX30 30L Portable Refrigerator Car Fridge Freezer

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Editor's Picks: Best Car Fridges

We've selected these fridges for their size, features, and value. Find the perfect one for your needs!

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Safety Considerations for Food Storage

Using a car fridge for food storage requires proper precautions to prevent food bourne illnesses. Here are some key points to remember:

  • Reference Reputable Sources: Always follow guidelines from trusted sources like the NHS (https://www.rdash.nhs.uk/policies/food-safety-policy/) for safe food storage at proper temperatures.
  • Maintain Cold Temperatures: Proper temperature control is crucial. Pack your food in insulated containers for additional protection and maintain proper air circulation by not overloading the fridge.
  • Practice Good Hygiene: Clean your car fridge regularly to prevent bacteria growth. Wipe down surfaces with a mild disinfectant solution and keep spills cleaned up promptly.

Car Fridge FAQs

  • Q: How much power does a car fridge use? A: The power consumption depends on the size and type of fridge. However, many models are designed to be energy-efficient.
  • Q: Can I use my car fridge at home? A: Yes, some car fridges come with adapters that allow you to plug them into a mains electricity socket.
  • Q: How do I clean my car fridge? A: Most car fridges have removable shelves and interiors that are easy to wipe clean.

Learn more about fridges