The Australian market is filled with a variety of camping fridges right now. With a lot to choose from, you may not get the right type that’ll suit you best during your extended trip. You’ll need to know the right kind of fridge, the correct power draw and many more factors to determine before making that purchase. We’ve got you covered. We’ve listed down every important factor you should look into and narrowed down your choices to 10 of the best camping fridges that are available in Australia right now.
Our Picks For Best Camping Fridges
10 Best Camping Fridges in Australia
- Alpicool CF35 Portable Refrigerator/Freezer
- Advwin 27L Portable Fridge Cooler Freezer
- F40C4TMP Portable Refrigerator Freezer for Truck 53 Quart (50L) Car Freezer Fridge(-4℉~50℉)
- Kolner 80L Portable Fridge Cooler Freezer Camping Car Travel Refrigerator
- ACOPOWER R40A Portable Solar Fridge Freezer for Car and Outdoor
- GECKO 35L Portable Fridge Freezer Cooler 12V/24V/240V for 4WD Camping Boating
- EVAKOOL E060 60L Fibreglass Icebox, White
- Dometic Waeco CFX75DZW Wi-Fi Fridge/Freezer
- DOMETIC CombiCool RC 2200 3-Way Portable Absorption Cool Box, Mini Fridge 41 Litre, 12 V/230 V/Gas
- AUTOLOVER Car Refrigerator 12V 6L Electrical Cooler Heater Environmental-Friendly Portable Freezer
Camping Fridges: Buyer’s Guide
From the different types to the power draw and product construction, we’ve listed down a comprehensive buyer’s guide to help you in purchasing the right camping fridge that will suit your trip.
The Different Types of Camping Fridges
Before diving into the different types of camping fridges out there, we’ll briefly differentiate first fridges from freezers.
Basically, the two differ in temperature ranges. You put food or beverages inside a fridge to keep it cool and fresh while putting a perishable in a freezer is to keep it frozen, to be used on a later date. Fridges will have a certain temperature range, while freezers will maintain a specific temperature throughout, which is usually at 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
The good thing about fridges is that they may come with a freezer compartment because of their temperature range capability. But a freezer can only be used for one thing.
That said, here are the different types of fridges, specifically for camping:
Chest Fridges
Chest Fridges are the most common type used for camping and travel. Will come in different sizes and may come with a dual function as a freezer. This means you will have the option to use the appliance as either a freezer or just a fridge, but never both at the same time.
Dual Zone Fridge Freezers
Dual-zone fridge freezers are the type that will give you the option to use the appliance both as a fridge and freezer at the same time. This type of camping fridge will closely resemble the regular one you have at home.
But because it will now be serving two separate functions, the usable space for each will be divided. If you’re going for a long period and will need both functions, you might be forced to get a bigger size to fit all the food and beverages you will need for the whole trip.
Drawer Fridges
Drawer fridges are somewhat similar to chest fridges in terms of function, but instead of pulling the lid up to open the fridge, you’ll need to slide it sideways.
However, one of the key differences for a draw fridge is that it will likely need a permanent installation. So it will only best serve those who are going on RV camping or for those who would be willing to install it in or at the back of their 4WD or van.
Console Fridges
You may be familiar with console fridges as this is usually the type of fridge you see in luxury cars, vans, or pick-up trucks. But you won’t need to buy a high-end vehicle to get a console fridge, you can just have it installed.
It’s best used by those who are constantly on the road. It can only store a small volume but is definitely useful to store food and drinks for long-haul trips.
3-Way Fridges
The use of a 3-way fridge is the traditional or the old way of storing a fridge in a camping van. It is called a 3-way fridge because it uses three sources of energy to heat the coolant within the fridge which enables it to get cold.
Generally, this type of fridge has an average capacity of 40L and operates either on 12 V DC electrics, a 240 V AC, or gas. The inside of the fridge is similar to the ones you may have encountered in hotel rooms. It will have a small icebox compartment, a few shelves for food, and bottle storage on the side.
Explaining the Terminology
Power Draw
It is the rate of the electric energy that will be taken from a power source. It is the rate consumption of the device or appliance—in this case, of the camping fridge.
DC
This is the abbreviation for “Direct Current” which means the flow of electric charge is in one direction only. This is a power voltage identifier that is used for low current or low voltage applications.
AC
This is the abbreviation for “Alternating Current” which means the flow of electric charge periodically reverses direction.
Ambient temperature
It is the room temperature or the temperature of the air that surrounds a camping fridge. When the air temperature where the fridge is placed is not maintained, the performance of the appliance will be affected.
Camping Fridges: Primary Considerations
After identifying the type of camping fridge you may want to get, you’ll need to look into the specifics next.
Storage Capacity / Capacity Size
The most common size for a camping fridge or freezer is around 40L. This will serve you and your two companions for a solid weekend. If you’re looking into a more extended long-haul trip (more than a week), like on an RV getaway, you may want to look into fridges that have a storage capacity of 60 L and above. If you’re planning for a whole week getaway or a weekend away with 3 or 4 family members or friends, a 50 L will work.
The average capacity for a small camping fridge is 30 to 45L, while a medium-sized is 50 to 65L and the largest ones can be as big as 70L and more.
Power Draw
A camping fridge’s power draw or power consumption is one of the most important key factors that you will need to keep in mind.
You will need to know how much electricity or rate of power a camping fridge will need for you to be able to supply it or adjust your choice of fridge to the capacity of your existing power source.
Some, those who own 4WDs, will make use of their second battery as a power source for the fridge to assure that the main one, or the starter battery, won’t get drained.
In a more technical sense, power consumption for camping fridges will be labeled or stated in Amps DC per hour or Ampere-hour (Ah/h). Freezers or using a fridge as a fridge will have a higher Ah/h consumption (around 2 to 4) compared to it being used as a regular fridge, which will only run between 1 to 3 Ah/h.
As to the power draw, you may find information labels on the fridge that will state the interior and ambient temperatures and the calculation of its consumption while running on a certain operating voltage over 24 hours.
For instance, you find a stat label that reads “- 5°C interior, 32°C ambient, 12 V = 0.89a/h over 24hours”. This means that a fridge that is running on a 12V power supply, set at 5°C in a 32°C environment, will have an average consumption of 0.89 amps/h over 24 hours.
Operating Voltage
Most camping fridges and freezers that use the latest modern technology will operate at a 12V DC, 24V DC, and 240V AC.
Those that operate on 12V/24V DC can run on car batteries, solar system power supplies. The 240V AC operating voltage, on the other hand, will run on mains power.
Temperature Range Settings
As already mentioned fridges offer a temperature range. Those that offer a wider range option may cost more. Typically a settable range of at least 10°C to -18°C is already good.
You’ll only need an optimal temperature of -15°C when using the fridge as a freezer. Not only will it efficiently freeze your food but you’ll also be conserving power.
Product Construction
When choosing the perfect camping fridge that will be a worthy purchase, you will need to be keen on the components and materials used to construct the product. Those that are built with great insulation and efficient compressors will give you a better storage atmosphere for your food with less power consumption.
Camping Fridges: Secondary Considerations
Additional features
Some products will offer additional features like a built-in thermometer, a digital display, or even a USB port to conveniently charge your phone from the fridge. Those that are feature-filled will tend to cost more but there are good finds that will have these cool features while maintaining their budget-friendly price range.
Compressor Brand and Warranty
The compressor is like the heart of the fridge. It is responsible for keeping the appliance cold. If the camping fridge is equipped with a low-end compressor, you’ll end up with a lousy fridge. It wouldn’t matter if it has all the neat features. If it will not cool efficiently, your fridge will end up useless.
Always make sure that you look into the brand of the compressor. A well-known long-lasting compressor brand is Sawafuji Swing Motor. Dometic Waeco and SECOP (previously known as Danfoss) are also highly-noted compressor brands.
Also, compressors with long warranty coverage are a good indication of a good quality product.
Price
Camping fridges are not cheap, even the “budget-friendly” ones are still expensive. Purchasing one will cost you a chunk from your bank account, which is why you need to be very nit-picky when choosing the right product. You have to make sure that you will get your money’s worth and that this appliance will last you for a long time.
The 10 Best Camping Fridges Available in Australia
#1. Alpicool CF35 Portable Refrigerator/Freezer
Best Small-Sized Camping Fridge and Freezer
- ❄ STORAGE SPACE:Exterior Size 27.2”x13.6”x15”, 37Quart(35 Liter) capacity ,fits 36 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...
- ❄ CAR BATTERY PROTECTION:With temperature memory function and 3 different levels for battery protection: Low, Med and High to protect...
Weight: 12.7 kg | Dimensions: 69 x 34.5 x 38.2 cm | Temperature Range: – 4°F to 68°F
Standout features: LCD display panel; 3 stage car battery protection; Freezes without ice
The Alpicool CF35 Portable Refrigerator/Freezer is a very efficient and portable camping fridge that can be used as a freezer as well. It’s around 15 inches tall and it is as wide as 27.2 inches and has a 35 L capacity. So it’s just a bit above the minimum capacity of a small camping fridge.
Nonetheless, you’d be surprised how many you can fit inside. It can actually fit around 36 cans of 12 oz. of cola. It has 2 compartments and the larger section is the one used for the freezer mode. It has a powerful chilling down performance of -4°F(-20°C) and it freezes with no ice forming on the sides.
The overall function of this camping fridge is excellent. It has an LCD and a digitized temperature adjustment. Plus, there’s an internal basket that fits in the freezer section and it comes with a built-in LED light, so it’ll be easier to maneuver inside during nighttime.
Its power runs on 12/24V DC electrics—suitable for cars, RVs, and trucks. It can also run a solar power system. While its rated power is 45W. One of its key features is its 3 stage car battery protection system. What it does is prevent your car battery from running down.
#2. Advwin 27L Portable Fridge Cooler Freezer
Best Portable Camping Fridge and Freezer
- 【Warranty for your rights】The Advwin 12V refrigerator comes with a 1-year warranty. If you have any questions about the product,...
- 【MAX & ECO Mode】Eco mode is the function which can slow down the compressor running speed for energy economic. Max mode is the...
- 【Fast Cooling Down to 32℉】With Compressor refrigeration technology, this 12v car refrigerator could achieve 20 min fast cooling...
Weight: 12 kg | Dimensions: 58 x 39 x 32 cm | Temperature range: -25℃—20℃
Standout features: Fast cooling; LED display; Energy saving ECO mode
The Advwin 27L Portable Fridge Cooler Freezer can be used even on picnics as it can even be powered by a portable power bank. How convenient is that? It cools fast as well, it can go up to a maximum of 95°F within 30 minutes and reach the lowest – 4 ℉ (- 20°C) in about an hour.
When the fast cooling mode is not needed, you can turn the fridge in an ECO mode which is a power-saving feature. Changing the fridge’s temp and modes are also easy to do because of its LED panel display and digitized temperature adjustment.
This camping fridge will use a 12/24V DC and 100V to 240V AC adapter. Meanwhile, the storage space is deep enough to fit a lot of items despite being a small-sized fridge. However, it has built-in dividers inside that will likely limit the sizes of items that can fit inside.
#3. F40C4TMP Portable Refrigerator Freezer for Truck 53 Quart (50L) Car Freezer Fridge(-4℉~50℉)
Best Large Camping Fridge/Freezer for RV Camping
- 【15 Mins Fast cooling&Energy Saving】The portable compressor fridge only needs 15 mins from 77℉ to 32℉ with an aluminum alloy...
- 【53 Quart Large Capacity&Dual Zone】With a 10L-refrigerated area(4.9*10.6*9.0 inches) and 40L- freezing area(12.7*10.6*15.7 inches),...
- 【45dB Low Noise&Safe Driving】With 45dB low noise when 12V portable refrigerator for car is running, you can get a cozy sleep after...
Weight: 20.77 kg | Dimensions: 65.40 x 34.49 x 52.75 cm | Temperature range: – 4℉ – 50℉
Standout features: Dual Zone type; thick insulation layer
The F40C4TMP Portable Refrigerator Freezer for Truck will suit you best if you’re going for an RV camping trip. It has a large capacity of 50 L which can efficiently cool your food items for a week.
Despite being a big camping fridge, it is actually built to consume less power. In fact, it consumes less than 1kWh per day. It has 2 modes: Max and ECO. It carries a 60W rated power in Max mode, which can only be used when the fast cooling feature is needed.
This camping appliance is a dual-zone type, which means it can be used as a freezer and a fridge at the same time. It has a 40L freezing area and a 10L refrigerated area.
#4. Kolner 80L Portable Fridge Cooler Freezer Camping Car Travel Refrigerator
Best Large Camping Fridge for Extended Travel
- 🧊 ACCURATE TEMPERATURE CONTROL - Keep your food and beverages at your desired temperature level with the cooler's electronic control...
- 🧊 GALVANIZED STAINLESS STEEL CONSTRUCTION - Made from premium-grade galvanized steel, this cooler is designed to handle rough use,...
- 🧊 POLYURETHANE INSULATION- This cooler features a layer of polyurethane insulation to keep your beverages consistently chilled...
Weight: 30 kg | Dimensions: 87 x 52 x 50.6 cm | Temperature: -20℃ – +10℃
Standout features: Digitized temperature adjustment; For large family use
The Kolner 80L Portable Fridge Cooler Freezer may just be the top choice if you’re going for a long trip with the whole family. It has a capacity of 80 L which can store and cool more than a week’s long adventure. It’s so big, you can use it conveniently at home as well. There’s no need for added installation; just plug it into any 12V or 24V DC power outlet or 240V power point.
This camping fridge has dual-zone compartments with dual temperature control settings, making it easier for you to set the desired temperature setting both for freezer and fridge areas.
#5. ACOPOWER R40A Portable Solar Fridge Freezer for Car and Outdoor
Best Rechargeable Camping Fridge
- ⛱A Cooler or freezer: Capacity 40 Liter; adjustable temperature inside to work as either freezer or cooler, 40 mins quick cooling to...
- ⛱Three ways of charging: AC, Car (4-5 hours fully charge), or choose the solar panel: 12V Max 120W
- ⛱One full charge of the battery powers 10-15 hours in 0℃/32℉ setting; LCD Display-Easy control and monitor. Multiple setting for...
Weight: 12. kg | Dimensions: 47.5 x 63.754 x 38.1 cm
Standout features: Rechargeable solar-powered; Three-way charging options; equipped with wheels
ACOPOWER R40A Portable Solar Fridge Freezer for Car and Outdoor A fridge that can work on a rechargeable battery — how powerful. It has a built-in replaceable 173Wh Lithium battery that can last for 10-15 hours when fully charged and working on a temperature setting of 0°C (32°F). This camping fridge has a capacity of 40 L and has thick fluoride-free Insulation.
This product also offers three-way charging options. First, you can use the standard way which is plugging it in a wall power source. Second, you can use any 12V DC outlet, like a car lighter charger or a generator DC outlet. The third is by the use of an ACOPOWER Solar Panel.
If you’re planning to go off-grid, you can just pack with you an extra 173Wh battery or two (depending on how long your trip is), because its battery can be swapped and charged.
#6. GECKO 35L Portable Fridge Freezer Cooler 12V/24V/240V for 4WD Camping Boating
Best Heavy-Duty Camping Fridge
- Generous 35L capacity; 12V, 24V DC or 240V Mains compatible; Eco and Max modes;
- German compressor technology; Can cool to 0C in just 15 mins; Easy to use LCD display;
- Intelligent battery protection system; Space-saving carry handles; Can operate at up to a 30 incline;
Weight: 14 kg | Dimensions: 37.5 x 63.5 x 37.5cm | Temperature range: -20°C to +10°C
Standout features: Fast cooling; Intelligent battery protection system; Heavy-duty design
The GECKO 35L Portable Fridge Freezer Cooler carries a German compressor technology and is protected by a Grade III Anti-Shock heavy-duty design. To add, it is equipped with impact-resistant corner protection and a multi-layer casing that has a dense foam for superior insulation.
This camping fridge carries a maximum capacity of 35L and has two separate compartments for easy cleaning and food organization.
It has a rated power of 40W, with an energy consumption of 0.05kWh/hour. For the operating voltage, this camping fridge uses 12V/24V DC and 240V AC. It has a wide range of power supply options including a solar power system, caravan park power, portable generators or your vehicle’s 12V/24V charging port. It can cool up to 0°C in just under 15 mins. Adjusting the temperature is made easy with its LCD.
#7. EVAKOOL E060 60L Fibreglass Icebox
Best Durable and Portable Cooler
- Smooth walls, hygienic and easy to clean
- Features a unique combination of quality, durability and performance
- Ideal for family picnics, the beach, parties, camping and boating
Weight: 10 kg | Dimensions: 27.49 x 17.35 x 16.77 cm
Standout features: Has drainage bung, sturdy and heavy-duty materials
The Evakool Infinity Fibreglass Icebox, 60 Litre Capacity is a heavy-duty cooler that can prolong the lifespan of your ice for up to 15 days. It’s a modernized take from the traditional ice cooler. It is made with heavy-duty and high-quality materials. With its fiberglass material, the product will not easily dent, rust, or even corrode.
Despite the absence of electricity-powered refrigeration, this cooler is equipped with superior refrigeration quality insulation. It is as if you’re still using an electric-powered appliance—so long as you store ample amounts of ice inside, you’ll be good to go.
This cooler is super easy to clean and has a drainage bung for convenient disposal of water. Also, the inside walls are designed to not absorb food tastes or odours.
#8. This product is currently unavailable
Best Large Camping Fridge/Freezer
No products found.
Weight: 31 kg | Dimensions: 47.24 x 88.64 x 49.53 cm| Temperature range: -7°F to +50°F
Standout features: WiFi connectivity; Solar power option; two-door camping fridge
The This product is currently unavailable is the best option to look into if you’re planning for a long-haul trip with a few members with you. It has a large capacity of 75 L—about 113 120z cans can fit inside.
It’s a luxury camping fridge that can truly give you a premium camping experience. In fact, you can adjust your temperature setting through your phone because of its WiFi connectivity feature.
It is a dual-zone type, which means it can work as a freezer and a fridge at the same time. Each type has its independent variable control and has its respective doors so you won’t be affecting the temperature of either one when opening the lid.
It is, however, over 31 kg and may only be suited for RV camping or for big trucks and 4WDs. It has multiple power options, 12/24V DC, 100-240V AC, and Solar Battery System.
#9. DOMETIC CombiCool RC 2200 3-Way Portable Absorption Cool Box, Mini Fridge 41 Litre, 12 V/230 V/Gas
Best 3-Way Camping Fridge
- Powered by gas, 12 V DC and 230 V AC
- Cooling up to 33 degrees Celsius below ambient temperature
- Approximately 41 Litre capacity
Weight: 14 kg | Dimensions: 50.8 x 50 x 44.4 cm | Temperature range:
Standout features: Recessed grips; sturdy cabinet
The DOMETIC CombiCool RC 2200 3-Way Portable Absorption Cool Box / Mini Fridge can be a good choice if you feel like your campgrounds will have no mains connection, as it offers another power option aside from it or DC, which is gas.
This is also a great choice for a camping fridge if you plan on storing big bottled beverages of around 1.5 or 2L. You can store them vertically, which is also very convenient. The Dometic CombiCool can cool down to 30° C below ambient temperature.
You have to keep in mind, however, when using this fridge on gas. You’ll need to make sure you have enough ventilation space. Also, you can only use the Dometic CombiCool outdoors when you operate it on gas.
#10. AUTOLOVER Car Refrigerator
Best Portable Fridge for Cars
- COOLER AND WARMER - The device can be used as a cooler and a warmer, you can chose the cold or heat mode to meet your different needs,...
- FREE-STANDING - It is easy and simple to carry the device in view of the fact that it will not take up much space and the complimentary...
- LARGE CAPACITY AND LESS NOISE - 6L volume can meet your different needs of storage food, when the device operates, it will not make a...
Weight: 1.6 kg | Dimensions: 35 x 30 x 20 cm
Standout feature: Can be used as a cooler and as a warmer
The AUTOLOVER Car Refrigerator is designed to conveniently fit your car. As cars, nowadays, play an important role in camping trips. This is definitely a good product to consider if you’re planning to go on a short road trip.
Unlike the rest of the portable fridges on this list, this appliance won’t take up so much space and it won’t even weigh as much, as it’s only 1.6 kg and only around 10 inches tall. You can place it anywhere you want inside the car and it’ll snugly fit. It also has a complimentary strap to help you keep the fridge in place.
One of its key features is its function; it’s only made to keep your food and beverages cool, it can also warm them up. It has a cold and heat mode. If you plan to camp inside your car and will need to heat food, you won’t need to set up a portable stove outside. You just have to change the mode of your Autolover fridge to “heat” and it’ll warm up the same food you took out from the fridge. Its warm mode has a range of 50 to 60°C and a cool mode of 19°C. It even has a can or cup holder on top of the lid for easy placing when eating or drinking inside the car.
This fridge/warmer shall be powered by a 12V DC, which can be plugged conveniently into the car lighter charge. It has a charging line of 180cm or almost 71 inches. This means you can place the fridge on the backseat area with no worries.