Life in the city can be great and hectic at the same time. If possible, it’s always nice to take some time off your daily routine and catch up with friends and family. An ideal way to have fun with your loved ones is going out for a camping or an outdoor spree. The outdoor environment hits different – you don’t care about city life for a couple of days. It’s all about having fun while it lasts.

To have a fruitful outdoor trip, especially one that’s going to last for several days, it’s essential to have the necessary outdoor equipment and gear. One most underrated-yet-so-paramount camping item is a powered freezer or fridge. You may have to pack some food and drinks to last you several days. For this reason, a good freezer will maintain cold temperatures and cater to additional functional necessities such as refrigeration.

This guide to the top 8 best fridge freezers will help you to choose the best cooler for your outdoor adventures. All the coolers in this guide have a large capacity, 50 quart or more range, thus are best suited for average to large functions, or can carry a weeks-worth of foodstuff for a solo trip. Furthermore, their efficiency means safer food and less waste – you’ll have zero concerns when going out for several days with your friends.

I reviewed all compressor portable freezers. No thermodynamic coolers were reviewed. Thermodynamic coolers can only reduce temperature 40-degrees from the ambient temp, and that won’t work for most outdoor adventures, especially in the summer heat. These picks can all operator at fridge type levels (~37-degrees) and some, like my ARB Elements 63-Quart can be freezers as well (I’ve gotten my ARB down to -8 degrees Fahrenheit).

1. Best Overall Portable Fridge Freezer: ARB 10810602 Portable Fridge/Freezer 63 Quart

Scott note: This is my personal freezer I use on my overland trips in my Jeep Gladiator with my teardrop trailer. I mount this freezer in the backseat

The 63 QT freezer is crafted to survive in the harshest outdoor conditions. Its low height and small footprint allow it to fit in most standard SUVs. Thanks to the integrated electronic control system you can rest assured that this electric-powered cooler will keep your foods fresh and drinks cold for as long as you need them to be.

Furthermore, this ARB 63 QT portable freezer is perfect for all kinds of off-road adventures and weather conditions. This freezer has won the hearts of thousands of 4×4 enthusiasts. The passion for outdoor activities inspires the sturdy designs by the manufacturers and distributors.

Features of the ARB 10810602

Flexible power options

The ARB 63 QT has two power cables for convenience. The AC cable can be used at home because it is compatible with the standard household power configuration, while the second cable is the 12V/24V DC power, which plugs into your car when not at home. It’s also power-efficient and has a DC voltage readout feature, which lets you know the power input.

Massive space

This ARB 63 QT freezer also has a deep storage compartment to accommodate large bottles – it no longer has the dairy section. The increased evaporator height of this new version of this appliance accounts for extra space.

Touchpad controls

This fridge freezer features a backlit touch control panel that allows you to switch the cooler with simple touches. It allows you to adjust the temperature, power, and security options of the cooler. Although the control panel allows full functionality when the lid is fully open, the user-set locking code helps to securely restricts unnecessary adjustment or access. Most importantly, the control panel is weatherproof.

Quality build

This fridge/freezer is fabricated of stainless steel with durable ASA corner moldings. It’s also equipped with an electronic locking system for maximum security. The lid features a gas strut to hold it at any position when operating it. As for the hinges, they are made of high-quality stainless steel while the latches are made of anodized aluminum. A quality 3-year ARB warranty backs the freezer.

Security

The safety and security of a frize freezer is of paramount importance especially when camping. Even if you’re going out with friends who may want to meet around with you by stealing your favorite drinks, this ARB elements fridge 63 Quart has got your back! You also don’t have to worry about this or your cooler’s temperatures being changed.

Additionally, this freezer has a unique magnet lock, which is only activated via the touch control panel. It’s therefore impossible for anyone to access the cooler without your authorization. For additional security, a strategically placed padlock slot is available. It also has a bolt-down mounting kit that allows you to place the cooler permanently in your car.

Ergonomic design

The AC and the DC power sockets are tactically placed at the back for durability.  The remote monitor-transmitter is placed on the rear side to prevent it from weather-related damages. A bright rear-mounted LED is available for smooth operation when it’s dark.

Product specifications

ARB 10810602 Portable Fridge/Freezer Weatherproof Portable Fridge/Freezer

• Weatherproof control panel, Main body and lid constructed from 304 grade stainless steel with raised feature forming and embossed ARB logos on both sides of the cabinet, Tamperproof bolts for permanent mount options and added security
• Strong ASA protective corner pieces on main body and lid, Recessed rear remote monitor transmitter positioned to be protected from the weather
• Unique infinite position gas strut – will hold lid open in any position, Heavy duty tamperproof cast stainless steel hinges (non-removable lid)

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2. Most Spacious Cooler:Dometic CFX3 100 Powered Cooler

Dometic Waeco is famous for their prowess in powered and electric coolers. Unlike conventional ice-powered coolers, the electric-powered coolers will preserve items for an extended period of time. The CFX3 freezers are an improvement of the older CFX range and are generally better in terms of performance.

The Dometic CFX3 100l is an average mobile refrigerator-freezer that every outdoor fanatic will fall in love with. What’s interesting about this freezer is that it has an impressive cooling ability, which will preserve your food and chilled drinks for your trips. With a capacity of 98l, you can stack up to 153 cans of beer, water, energy drink, or soda.

Features of the Dometic CFX3 100l

Rugged Construction

Like its brothers, the Dometic CFX3 100l features a lightweight design. Despite having a lightweight ExoFrame, this cooler is sturdy and has been constructed to withstand off-road ruggedness and rough handling. It’s also fitted with robust, spring-loaded aluminum handles for more comfortable carrying and lifting.

Powerful compressor

The powerful VMSO3 compressor cooling technology offers efficient refrigeration, given that this cooler achieves a -7 °F when deep freezing, this technology achieves better results than ice.

Mobile App

Why worry about your foodstuffs when you can control the temperatures via your phone? This cooler’s mobile application utilizes Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to help you monitor the cooler remotely. Besides temperature regulation, you can also view the performance history of your cooler. The app is available on apple’s apple store and android’s play store.

Flexible power alternatives

This Dometic CFX3 100l cooler can be charged using DC, AC, or solar. Due to outdoor consideration, there’s a built-in 3-stage dynamic battery protection system to prevent dead batteries. This system also permits a deep draw on twin batteries.

Active gasket technology

This technology provides a superior seal to minimize power consumption. It also provides a superior seal, which aids in cold air retention.

Digital display

The digital screen displays the temperature, voltage, and Bluetooth/Wi-Fi connection status. It’s also easy to use, thanks to the high-resolution-color-display and touch buttons. These buttons allow effective operation, which ensures optimal performance. You get more cooling with a single soft press.

The digital display is protected using a scratch-resistant cover and an IP65 rated casing to keep water and dust at bay. You also don’t have to be worried about severe outdoor conditions in the wilderness – it can handle it all. Also, a USB port is located on the display panel to charge your portable gadgets should they run out of power.

Product specifications

Dometic CFX3 100L Powered Cooler - Portable Refrigerator/Freezer

• Heavy-duty yet lightweight ExoFrame construction with fender frame protected edges and aluminum alloy handles
• Powerful VMSO3 compressor cooling technology efficiently refrigerates and deep-freezes to –7 °F.
• Easy-to-read High-Resolution Color Display and soft touch buttons enabling seamless control and monitoring of cooler performance.

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3. Best Large Rugged Fridge Freezer:ARB Portable Fridge Freezer 82 Quarts

When you hear about a quality outdoor freezer, ARB should instantly strike your mind. With a 120, 12oz bottle capacity, the ARB Portable Fridge Freezer 82 Quarts is the enormous freezer by this manufacturer. This ice-free freezer is electric powered, and thus you do not have to stop by stores to buy ice that you’re pretty sure will melt in a couple of hours.

As well, you don’t have to deal with a water-logged lunch/supper from melted ice or freeze your hands while trying to shove out the last bottle of beer. This innovative ARB refrigerator/freezer gives you convenience and comfort, unlike the traditional ones. It’s also built with durability in mind – it’s specially crafted to handle extreme weather conditions. It has been tested by off-loaders in the desert and seaside, delivering impressive results in both instances.

This ARB Portable Fridge Freezer 82 Quarts also has a front-mounted control panel, including a bright LED display and some large buttons. These buttons allow you to switch the freezer on/off and set the temperatures.

Features of the ARB Portable Fridge Freezer 82 Quarts

Elaborate partitions

Being ARB’s giant fridge, the 82-quart model has two partitions: the first partition is for holding foodstuff and bottles while the other is exclusively for dairy products or dry fruits. It’s ideal for large groups or longer-camping trips.

Heavy-duty design

This freezer was designed for the off-loaders. It’s Ultra -durable patented hinge system has a front opening lid for easy access to the contents. A sturdy EZ latch is also fitted to secure the lid for a close-fitting seal. The freezer is also compatible with ARB’s fridge slides, which offer quick access to the whole freezer.

The exterior is designed to be mounted on your vehicle quickly – either on top of the roof rack or behind the wagon. Still, the freezer can be operated at up-to-30 degrees inclination without affecting its operation. It also has a 3-year warranty.

Accessibility

This ARB Portable Fridge Freezer 82 Quarts comes with power cables. The AC power cable plugs into a standard electric socket and powers the gadget while at home, or around an AC power source. The 12V/24V DC power cord connects to your car’s electrical system to power it during the trip.

A built-in cable retention system ensures the cables, not in use, are neat. Interestingly, the power system is entirely within the freezer, and therefore you do not have to worry about AC/DC adapters (power bricks).

A removable drain plug makes cleaning easy. A rear-facing automatic LED light is fitted on the inside to illuminate the freezer, especially when it’s dark.  The non-rotating pre-assembled handles are strong enough to withstand pressure when being tied on trucks.

Product specifications

ARB Portable Fridge Freezer 82 Quarts Electric Powered 12V/110V For Car, Boat, Truck, SUV, RV, Home Classic Series I (82 Quart)

• Can maintain an interior temperature of 0 degrees for true in-vehicle refrigeration and freezing
• Holds up to 120 12-ounce cans, and can also accommodate two-liter bottles of cola
• Continues to actively cool contents while the vehicle is off, and features an adjustable automatic battery protection system that prevents vehicle battery run-down

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4. Best Organization:ARB 10801472 Fridge Freezer Series II 50 Quart

Packing has never been more convenient than now. This ARB Fridge Freezer II 50 Quart makes camping easy, safe, secure, and enjoyable. You can use this device as a fridge or freezer, depending on your needs. Thanks to its huge carrying capacity, this freezer can carry enough foodstuffs to last you and your team for several days.

The ARB Fridge Freezer Series II 50 Quart also takes care of all your outdoor needs when it comes to preserving foodstuffs. It allows you to take dry food while at the same time, you can grab a chilly beer or soda.

Features of the ARB 10801472 Fridge Freezer

Versatile

ARB classic series II 50 Quart is an all-rounded cooler, making it an ideal choice for adventure-oriented individuals. It’s built for outdoor ruggedness and has been tested repeatedly by 4×4 fanatics in the remotest part of the earth.

While most people casually refer to it as a fridge, it has a ton of technical adjustments for improved convenience and reliability. This 50-Quart model draws minimalist energy despite maintaining a sub-freezing temperature of 90°F. It also has an open-lid indicator that alerts you in case the fridge isn’t correctly sealed.

Broad power options

You can either use AC or DC to power the 50-Quart fridge. The AC power option has an integrated battery protection system. It’ also compatible with generators and solar panels. You don’t have to worry about the power source, whichever option you have at your disposal, it’ll work. You can power the cooler while at your house while driving, while on the mountainside or even the beach.

User-Friendliness

When ARB designed the classic series II coolers, they had your needs in mind. This electric-powered fridge has an internal removable drain plug and ventilation grills which allow operation in compact spaces. An internal LED light lets you source foodstuff quickly at night.

A front-facing control panel has a thermostat that allows you to control the temperature of the freezer, ranging from O° F to 50° F. You can also set the temperature via the presets so that the fridge can remember the number. The control panel is backlit to enhance visibility in poorly lit conditions. An On/off power indicator is also available.

The exterior has been designed with rounded edges and corners to use it on your car seats without damaging them. The cooler is also safe to carry, so no worries of accidents as long as you take the necessary precautions.

Connect App

This classic II fridge can be connected to a mobile application, which lets you turn it on/off remotely. Using the mobile app, you can also adjust the temperatures while viewing vital information about your fridge. You can also control the fridge’s display brightness.

Product specifications

ARB 10801472 Fridge Freezer Series II 50 Quart 20(H) x15(W) x27.8 in.(D) External Dimensions 53 lbs. Weight Fridge Freezer Series II

• A new transmitting module has been introduced that utilizes Bluetooth connectivity that allows both monitoring and control of your Series II Fridge Freezer.
• The mobile application is available for free via Google Play or the Apple App Store.
• Inspired by ARB Jack, the gun-metal color body of the fridge highlights the black plastics offering a smart and sleek contrast and improved UV resistance.

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5. Best Car Refrigerator:COSTWAY Car Refrigerator, 55-Quart Portable Freezer

This portable vehicle refrigerator is powerful and ideal for use at home or while on the go. It maintains drinks and packed food at cold temperatures perfectly. Since the interior temperatures range from -68° to 50°, you are sure of having your drinks icy while your medicine and snacks remain at constant temperatures.

Thanks to its large capacity of 50l, you can plan for a long outdoor event without any worries of getting thirsty or hungry. As well, this COSTAWAY 55 Quart portable freezer will help you to stay away from frequent purchases of ice while going out for camping. The different power cords allow you to either use AC power or DC power depending on which one is available. Additional features include;

Features of the COSTWAY 55 Quart portable freezer

Shockproof design

COSTWAY 55 Quart portable freezer is tough enough to withstand harsh environments. So, you can rest assured that you will to arrive at your destination with all your foodstuff and drinks in good condition.  You can use the freezer while inclined at 30° without glitches in performance and operation.

Fast cooling

This portable car freezer has the compressor cooling technology, which offers cooling from 90°F to 32°F at an incredible 30 minutes. You can choose one of the two modes depending on your needs. There’s the ECO mode, which capitalizes on power saving while the MAX mode delivers fast cooling (especially if the temperature of the environment or container is less than 89.6° F).

LCD Display

Since the temperature adjustment is digitized, the LCD makes it convenient for you to regulate the temperature or switch between the two modes of operation. The operation is straightforward so you don’t require a manual to learn how to use it.

Innovative design

This COSTWAY 55 Quart is also designed with convenience and reliability in mind. The flip-top design gives you more than enough room to open the car fridge.  On the inside, there is an impermeable liner that keeps your food and drinks intact. The handles are safe to operate for convenient transportation. An interior LED lighting allows you to easily observe the fridge’s contents and thus regulate the temperatures effectively.

Product specifications

COSTWAY Car Refrigerator, 55-Quart Portable Compressor Freezer, -4°F to 50°F, Dual-Zone Electric Car Cooler with 3 Levels, LCD Display, Shockproof Design, RV Travel Fridge for Home, Camping (Gray)

• ❄️ 【A Multi-voltage System】This portable car refrigerator operates at 12V/24V DC and 100V~240V AC power source, which allow you to plug in a socket at home or use it with a cigarette lighter on the car. The original package includes 1 DC power cord and 1 AC adapter. You don’t have to reset the temperature when you change the power source because of the memory function.
• ❄️【Large Capacity】With a capacity of 55 quarts, the compressor car refrigerator is able to hold 84 bottles 330ml beer, 60 bottles 550ml water and 19 bottles 750ml wine. What's more, the car fridge can keep your food chilled or frozen easily without consuming too much energy. It has MAX and ECO working modes for you to adjust as needed.
• ❄️【Convenient Operation with LCD Display】With LCD display screen and digital buttons, you can set your desired temperature (range from -4°F to 50°F) and adjust compressor speed conveniently. Internal LED lights also allow easier and more convenient access in low light conditions. Our car refrigerator handles on both sides allow you to move it to any desired location.

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6. Lightest Cooler:Alpicool CF55 Portable Refrigerator 58 Quart (55 Liter)

This Alpicool’s 58 Quart portable refrigerator comes with a large capacity of 55 liters – it can accommodate up to 60 soda or beer cans. Furthermore, it has a very powerful compressor, which enables it to cool food and drinks as low as -4°F, ice-free. The cooler’s temperature is adjustable when operating as a freezer or fridge.

This portable refrigerator 58 Quart is perfect for your summer parties or road trips. You can stack and enjoy some icy drinks and beverages with the Alpicool CF55. Its features include;

Features of the Alpicool’s 58 Quart portable refrigerator

Solid build quality

Thick, high-density foam is used as an insulator to achieve incredible performance. To add on this, it has a secure sealing construction design for increased safety of your food reserves. As well, it has large plastic handles on each side, which enhances portability. The fridge can also run up to 45-degree angles without affecting the operation.

Ease of use

This fridge is easy and straightforward to operate for anyone. The large LCD makes its operation straightforward. You also adjust the temperatures effortlessly thanks to the digitized temperature adjustment.

The internal LED light increases convenience when stashing or drawing food items from the fridge, especially when dark.

Power-efficient

With a power rating of only 45 watts, this Alpicool CF55 portable car fridge is one of the most power-efficient fridges. This low power consuming 12 V is perfect for solar use.  You can switch on the ECO mode to increase power saving. It has 3-level car battery protection to prevent draining your vehicle’s battery.

The fridge can either use AC power (110-240v) or DC power (12V/24V).  Both the power cables come with the fridge. You can alternate between the two power options depending on where you are. At home, you can use the AC while you use DC when traveling.

Product specifications

Alpicool CF55 Portable Refrigerator 12 Volt Car Freezer 58 Quart(55 Liter) Vehicle, Car, Truck, RV, Boat, Mini fridge freezer for Driving, Travel, Fishing, Outdoor -4°F to 68°F

• ❄ STORAGE SPACE:Exterior Size 27.2”x13.6”x20.6”, 58Quart(55 Liter) capacity ,fits 60 x 12ozs cans of Cola.
• ❄ FREEZES WITHOUT ICE: -4°F(-20°C) powerful chilling down performance ,can adjust the temperature be a fridge or freezer. Run great with your small solar system as well.
• ❄CAR BATTERY PROTECTION:With temperature memory function and 3 different levels for battery protection: Low, Med and High to protect your vehicle battery without run down.

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7. Best Mini-Fridge:Goplus 54 Quarts Portable Refrigerator Freezer

This portable vehicle refrigerator is an all-rounded beast with a large capacity, enough to last for several days on the road (three to four). Since it’s spacious, you can pack a significant amount of food, snacks, and drinks. In case you have some medicines, you can set the cooler temperatures to ensure they remain safe.

You can use it at home or for a road trip, fishing expedition, or camping tour. Although it’s not for sale in California, residents from other states can buy it and start the fun.

Features of the Goplus 54 Quarts Portable Refrigerator

Fast cooling and Energy saving

Goplus 54 Quarts Portable Refrigerator Freezer uses the innovative compressor cooling technology to achieve implausible performance. It only takes 30 minutes to achieve a fast cooling from 90° F to 32° F. This efficient technology ensures that the stored snacks remain healthy while the beverages become chilly.

You can choose the ECO mode, which saves energy significantly while ensuring faster cooling. Three-level battery protection (low, medium & high) ensures the safety of your vehicle’s battery.  When not using the ECO mode, switch to the fast cooling MAX mode.

Heavy-duty and shockproof

This fridge is crafted from an ABS material, making it durable and suitable for long-term use in diverse environments. The shockproof design allows the fridge to withstand extreme environments while ensuring the safety of the contents. You don’t have to worry when using a bumpy road.

User-friendliness

Despite achieving good results, this device has a very low running noise. At a level of fewer than 45 decibels, you can use it comfortably in any environment. Also, a removable shell helps to organize your food well. Once packed, this tray ensures the items remain in the original position through the whole journey.

Ease of operation

Using this portable fridge is simple and straightforward. A large bright LCD on the front helps you control the mode of operation and adjust the temperature. The refrigerator is small in size and lightweight, storing it is not a problem. When placing it anywhere, it uses the least of your space. The device has plastic ergonomic handles, which improve its portability.

Product specifications

Goplus 54 Quarts Portable Refrigerator Freezer Compact Compressor Electric Cooler AC & DC Mini Fridge for Car, Office and Camping

• ‼️【 This product is not for sale in california】Large Capacity & Multi-use---The portable refrigerator comes with 52L large capacity, which could hold a great amount of drinks and also have enough space for snacks and food. It is your perfect option that can be used at home or while travelling. Besides, you can choose appropriate temperature to keep the cosmetics or medicines.
• Fast Cooling & Energy-saving---This freezer adopts compressor cooling technology, it ensures 30-minute fast cooling from 90°F to 32°F. The inside system of the refrigerator is excellent at chilling beverages and healthy snacks. You could also choose ECO mode, it can save energy while ensuring fast cooling.
• Shockproof Design & Durable---The compact refrigerator is made of ABS material, which is sturdy and durable for long-term using. With the shockproof design, this refrigerator could withstand hard environment. The item would be in good condition even the bumpy road condition.

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8. Best Power-Efficient Cooler:Engel MT60F-U1-C AC/DC Portable Dual Voltage Fridge/Freezer (Combi) - 60 Qt

When your outdoor expeditions demand more capacity and performance, the Engel MT60F fridge-freezer should instantly cross your mind. With a capacity of 60qt, you can load enough food and drinks to last at least a day or two for your crew.

Since the Engel MT60 Portable Fridge-Freezer runs on battery (12/24V) or AC (110V), your food reserve is secure irrespective of your location. Whether at home, on the road, on water, or deep in the mountains, this fridge will operate normally. This combo-unit makes you feel like you are traveling with your home fridge.

Features of the Engel MT60-U1-C 60 Quart Freezer

100% CFC-Free Compressor

This combo unit uses the Engel Swing Motor Compressor, which besides being 100% CFC-free, is highly power efficient because it draws a partly 1 to 2 Amps per hour. It is roughly a 40% improvement from the traditional units.

Efficiency

The unit’s compressor Operates at a 100% efficiency, on levels of up to 30 degrees disposition. Besides, this dual-compartment fridge/freezer cools up to 90 degrees lower than ambient temperature. Currently, no other freezer achieves such an insane performance.  The power system has been designed to select between AC and DC power automatically.

Heavy-duty construction

The Engel MT60 was developed with durability and ruggedness, taking the top goals. This high-performance cooler keeps food cool while also withstand extreme environments, thanks to the vibration-resistant technology. The exterior casing is made of galvanized steel with a melamine coating. The handles are heavy-duty and removable too.

Accessibility

This unit has dual compartments, a freezer, and a refrigerator, hence the moniker dual unit. It has a detachable lid that features reverse hinges for fast and efficient loading/unloading items. The combo kit also has an interior wire basket for ease of access.

Product specifications

Pros

• Heavy duty
• Multi-purpose
• Large size
• Efficient cooling

Cons

• Fixed Compartments
• Cheap latches
• Poor customer care

Best Portable Fridge Freezer Buying Guide (What to have in mind when buying a freezer/cooler)

When shopping for an electric portable cooler, you may be confused by the many recommendations you’ll come across. But it’s important to keep in mind that everyone has a personal taste, and apart from the cooler’s build quality, some people will prefer specific coolers over the others. What you find suitable is likely  to be the least preferred for your friend.

For this reason, you should pay attention to several factors when deciding the kind of cooler to purchase. These factors include;

1. Size

When determining the size of your cooler, it’s advisable to take into consideration your car design. It could be very frustrating to buy a cooler that does not fit in your car. As well, how many people will the cooler serve – the larger the crew, the larger the cooler should be.

2. Capacity

This factor is probably the most important of all factors that you should consider when buying a cooler. You should buy a cooler which can accommodate as much food and drinks for your screw.

The specific electric cooler’s capacity mostly depends on the number of people the cooler will be serving as well as the number of days you’re planning to be away from home. It would inflict a lot of trouble should the cooler run out of supplies in the middle of your adventure. There are plenty of coolers ranging from 15 quarts to 400 quarts.

According to outdoor experts, an adult should have enough supplies for a day per 12.5 quarts. In case you are going out with your partner for two days, then 50 quarts cooler is sufficient for you.

The capacity of the electric cooler = number of people * Number of days * 12.5

3. Tough construction

Since most outdoor activities happen in an extreme environment, a good cooler should be tough enough to handle it all. You have to consider the kind of outdoor conditions you deal with, rough terrains, mud, rain, snow, heat, wildlife exposure, and dust.

The exterior of the cooler should be constructed with durable material and pass all manufacturing standards. Also, the ideal cooler should have a high inclination angle, which doesn’t affect its performance. The hinges, latches, and handles should also be heavy-duty. Although these components may appear small, they may render your new cooler useless if they get damaged.

4. Portability

Since most of the camping sites are not always accessible via car, you may have to carry the cooler for some short distances. As you can see from the reviews above, some coolers are pretty heavy. When you add the weight of the food packages and drinks, the overall weight may limit its portability and hinder mobility.

A good cooler should have specialized handles for effective handling. The handles should be user friendly and strategically positioned. The handles should also be constructed using quality materials so that they don’t damage easily.

The shape of the handle can also influence the portability of the coolers. Even though the electric cooler’s size is paramount, you must consider the kind of environment you anticipate to use it on. For instance, most outdoor trips entail passing under narrow passages or in the bushes. A massive cooler may be inconvenient in such a situation.

5. Insulation

Just like a traditional cooler, insulation is paramount to promote temperature retention. Sometimes the power may be limited, which means the cooler has to operate with its power turned off. The insulation helps in maintaining the cooler’s temperature. The insulation is also essential for locking the smell of food. It also prevents external campfires from contaminating the food inside.

6. Flexible power options

Since these electric-powered coolers do not depend on ice, you should get the one with many power options. Having in mind that some outdoor camping trips may last for several days, you don’t want your fridge-freezer to run out of power. Running out of power means that the cooler cannot preserve your foodstuffs or make your drinks chilly, which translates to wastage.

An excellent electric freezer should also have both the AC and DC power configurations. You can use AC at home while you use DC while on the move. For convenience, it should also be compatible with solar and generator. You might still consider grabbing a cooler with integrated battery power. It is essential when going into the wild for more than a day.

7. Price

When you are planning to buy something, the issue of cost always elicits different reactions. It’s where brand superiority sets in. To get the most value for your money, you must shelf the brand names first. Check the other requirements and whichever meets your criteria, buy it without blinking.

Preferred brands that have in the market for decades will always sell their commodities at a higher price, which doesn’t always guarantee the superiority of their products against the upcoming brands. You could save an incredible amount of cash, which can be used for other uses.

8. Additional features

Most brands that manufacture cooler are keen to add some extra features to their products to attract you. After checking all the other factors above, you should carefully evaluate each cooler independently and determine what extras it has to offer. Different brands have different extra features, such as auto-power selection, food baskets, or even external attachments.

How to use coolers

To get the maximum service from electric coolers, you need to equip yourself with some handy tips first. The following tips will go a long way in ensuring your food and drinks remain as chilled as possible.

• When stashing any food, avoid storing them at room-temperatures. You can first put drinks inside your home fridge before packing them inside the cooler. They stay chilly for a longer time.
• When storing processed or cooked food, store them in water-tight bags to avoid them getting wet.
• For perishable goods, do not park them until it is the last minute to depart.
• Always close the lid after use so that the internal temperature can remain extremely low.

How to care for coolers

Once you buy a fridge-freezer, it’s essential to handle with utmost care. This way, you can rest assured that it will serve you well and for longer. Always keep in mind the following precautions;

• Always store the cooler in the shade to ensure that it’s not scorched by direct sunlight. You can place it under an umbrella, a tent, a picnic table, or a tree.
• Some of the coolers come with body casings. Always ensure your cool box is fitted with the case to avoid scratches and dents. Although some coolers do not come with casings, you can buy an independent case.
• When individual cables are not in use, always store them carefully. Some freezers are equipped with a compartment to hold the idle cords.
• To increase the lifespan of electric-powered freezers, wash them thoroughly, and let them dry by themselves. Washing should be done after every outdoor trip.

FAQs

How do you clean an eclectic cooler?

Any item that comes into contact with food needs thorough cleaning to avoid food/drink contamination.  Unlike typical containers, you just don’t wash it with plain water. Cleaning the coolers is relatively straightforward – you just need a micro-fiber cloth, soap, paper towels, and warm water.

Soak the cloth inside lukewarm warm water, apply some soap, and start wiping the cooler inside. Be sure to clear all food crumbles. In case your cooler is in deplorable conditions, you can use a pinch of baking soda.

After you have finished washing the interiors, repeat the same process with the exterior side. Take a new paper towel, wet it with water only, and use it to dry all the soap out. Leave the electric cooler to dry by itself then store it. Always remember to clean it after using it.

Is it necessary to buy ice packs?

For electric coolers, you don’t need ice. These coolers self-regulate their temperature because of their innovative cooling technology.

Even though it’s always wise to consider your options before making a move, in case you are planning a long trip, and you can’t entirely rely on the available power options throughout, you can add some ice blocks and enjoy chilly drinks. The ice cannot damage the electric coolers.

Will the cooler drain the car’s battery?

Car coolers are designed to work best with the car configuration. As long as the car is running, the car cooler works flawlessly. When the car is not running, portable fridge freezers that lack 3-level battery protection will drain the car battery, which can be disastrous, especially when far away from the city.

Fortunately, you don’t have to keep the car running because the car cooler also works well when unplugged from a power source, as long as the lid is tightly closed.

Will an electric cooler warm food?

Yes, a 12V cooler warms up your food moderately. You cannot, however, compare it to a microwave. This option is only available to make the food suitable for eating without clenching your teeth.  Even though the coolers play a crucial role in maintaining the food and drinks ice-cold, some people can’t just withstand munching ice-cold food.

Conclusion

If you can get yourself one of these coolers / portable freezers we’ve discussed above, you are assured of world-class convenience, reliability, and efficiency. Any of these coolers will help you to unlock a new level of adventure and outdoor enthusiasm. You no longer have to worry about eating wet food after a long day on the road or mountain. You also don’t need to stop by the store to replenish your ice reserves when going on a road trip.

Considering all the factors, the ARB Elements Portable Fridge/Freezer is the most ideal cooler to that I’d recommend you to purchase. This cooler is all-rounded and generally impressive. It has all the features that you need when going out. It’s like carrying a home-fridge to the camping site. However, bearing in mind that your personal preferences may be different, just remember to revisit our buying guide section to find out what works best for you.