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10 Best Portable Refrigerators For Cars 2025 in the United States

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#1

Winner

Dometic CFX3 75-Liter Dual Zone Portable Refrigerator and Freezer, Powered by AC/DC or Solar…

The Dometic CFX3 75-Liter Dual Zone Portable Refrigerator and Freezer is a robust option for those in need of a large-capacity portable fridge for their car. It offers a substantial 75-liter capacity, making it ideal for long trips, camping, picnics, and fishing excursions. One of its standout features is the dual-zone cooling, which allows you to set different temperatures for two compartments, providing flexibility for refrigerating and freezing items simultaneously.

This product doesn't require ice, thanks to its powerful VMSO3 compressor cooling technology, which can cool down to –7 °F. This ensures your perishables stay fresh and your frozen items remain solid without the mess of melting ice. It offers multiple power options, including AC, DC, and solar power, making it versatile and convenient for various uses. Additionally, the ultra-low power consumption and built-in 3-stage dynamic battery protection prevent dead batteries, which is a significant plus for long travels.

The rugged construction, featuring an ExoFrame and aluminum alloy handles, enhances its durability, making it suitable for tough conditions. The Dometic CFX3 also integrates advanced technology with its CFX3 app, allowing you to control temperatures via WiFi or Bluetooth and track performance history. The high-resolution color display and soft-touch buttons facilitate easy control and monitoring. However, at 61.29 pounds, it is relatively heavy, which might be a drawback for those looking for a more portable and lightweight option.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Temperature Range
The digital temperature controls can be a bit finicky, with some users noting variations in displayed and actual temperatures.
Energy Efficiency
Amazing upgrade from ice and a cooler! The quality is outstanding and highly efficient with power.
Durability
The Dometic CFX3 100 is a blend of durability and superior functionality, making it perfect for long journeys with its effective cooling and freezing capabilities.
Additional Features
The Bluetooth app control is a standout feature, allowing remote temperature monitoring and adjustment, which is especially handy during backcountry drives.
#2

BougeRV 12 Volt Refrigerator 12V Car Fridge 30 Quart Portable Freezer Compressor Cooler Compressor Freezer, 12/24V DC 110~240V AC, -7℉~50℉ for Truck RV SUV (Black)

The BougeRV 12 Volt Refrigerator is a solid option for those needing a portable fridge for their car, truck, RV, or boat. With a 30-quart capacity, this compact fridge offers ample space for food and drinks. Its compressor refrigeration technology allows for rapid cooling, reaching 32℉ in just 15 minutes and -5℉ in about 50 minutes, making it very efficient at preserving food without the need for ice.

The unit is highly versatile, capable of operating on 12/24V DC and 110~240V AC power sources, which makes it suitable for various vehicles and uses. One of its notable features is its low power consumption, operating at about 36W in ECO mode and 45W in MAX mode, ensuring it doesn't drain your vehicle's battery excessively. Additionally, the fridge includes a 3-level battery monitor to prevent your vehicle’s battery from dying.

Portability is enhanced by its lightweight design, weighing only 24.26 lbs, and its compact dimensions. The fridge runs quietly at 45dB, which is a plus for long trips where noise can be a disturbance. It's built to withstand rough conditions, with a shock-proof design that handles up to a 30° tilt. However, it does have some drawbacks. The manual defrosting system requires extra maintenance. It lacks an Energy Star rating, which might be a concern for some looking for maximum energy efficiency. The single-door design and the absence of an internal light might be inconvenient in low-light conditions. Additionally, the fridge should not be placed in direct sunlight as this could deform the door, which might limit where you can place it. The BougeRV 12 Volt Refrigerator offers strong performance and versatility, but it's important to consider its few limitations before making a purchase.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Capacity
The fridge can be used as a cooler/freezer combo, maintaining both cold drinks and frozen food simultaneously.
Power Source
It's perfect for camping and road trips, providing reliable cooling without draining the car battery.
Temperature Range
The BougeRV 12V Refrigerator cools down impressively fast, reaching 32 degrees in less than 20 minutes.
Energy Efficiency
Its low power consumption in ECO mode is outstanding, drawing only 36 watts and keeping the food at the set temperature efficiently.
Size and Portability
Lightweight and portable, this fridge is easy to move in and out of the car or camper.
Durability
Durable and reliable, the BougeRV 12V Refrigerator is ideal for anyone needing extra cooling space on the go.
Additional Features
The controls are easy to read and operate, conveniently located on the top for quick access.
#3

BougeRV 12 Volt Refrigerator 12V Car Fridge 23 Quart Portable Freezer Compressor Cooler 12/24V DC 110~240 Volt AC for Truck Van RV Camper SUV Travel Camping Road Trips Tailgating -7℉~50℉

The BougeRV 12V Car Fridge is a versatile 23-quart portable refrigerator and freezer ideal for road trips, camping, and tailgating. This product excels in several key areas: it offers quick cooling, reaching 32℉ in just 15 minutes and -5℉ in 50 minutes. It operates efficiently with a low power consumption of less than 45W even on its highest setting, making it economical and energy-efficient.

Additionally, it supports both 12/24V DC and 110~240V AC power sources, providing flexibility for use in various vehicles, including trucks, vans, RVs, and SUVs. The lightweight design at just over 22 pounds enhances its portability. The refrigerator is also designed to run quietly at 45dB, which is great for maintaining a peaceful environment during travel. Furthermore, it includes a 3-level battery protection feature to prevent draining your vehicle’s battery, which is a thoughtful addition for long trips.

However, there are a few downsides. The refrigerator requires manual defrosting, which may be inconvenient for some users. It also lacks an Energy Star certification, which might be a concern for those focused on energy efficiency standards. Additionally, it's advised not to place the fridge in direct sunlight to avoid potential deformation, which could limit placement options. Despite these minor drawbacks, this portable refrigerator offers a strong combination of fast cooling, energy efficiency, and portability, making it a reliable choice for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Capacity
The BougeRV 12V Car Fridge offers ample space for drinks, snacks, and meals, efficiently cooling even when outside temperatures rise.
Power Source
In ECO mode, the power consumption is impressively low, drawing only 36 watts, which is great for using with portable power stations and solar panels.
Temperature Range
The BougeRV 12V refrigerator cools down fast, reaching 32 degrees in less than 20 minutes and maintains the set temperature efficiently.
Size and Portability
Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to place in various locations, whether in a small camper or the rear seat of a truck.
Durability
This portable fridge is durable, reliable, and a perfect companion for road trips and camping adventures.
Additional Features
The controls are easy to read and operate, located conveniently on top for quick access.

Buying Guide for the Best Portable Refrigerators For Cars

Choosing the right portable refrigerator for your car can make a big difference in your travel experience, whether you're going on a road trip, camping, or just need to keep your groceries cool on the way home. The key is to understand the different specifications and how they align with your needs. Here are some important specs to consider when selecting a portable refrigerator for your car.
CapacityCapacity refers to the amount of space inside the refrigerator, usually measured in liters or quarts. This is important because it determines how much food and drink you can store. Small capacity (up to 20 liters) is suitable for short trips or solo travelers. Medium capacity (20-40 liters) is good for couples or small families on weekend trips. Large capacity (over 40 liters) is ideal for longer trips or larger groups. Choose a capacity based on the duration of your trips and the number of people you need to cater to.
Power SourcePortable refrigerators can be powered by different sources, such as 12V car outlets, 110V home outlets, or even solar panels. This spec is crucial because it affects where and how you can use the refrigerator. A 12V option is essential for car use, while a dual power option (12V/110V) offers more flexibility for home and car use. Solar compatibility is great for off-grid adventures. Consider where you will be using the refrigerator most often and choose a power source that matches your needs.
Temperature RangeThe temperature range indicates how cold the refrigerator can get, which is important for preserving different types of food and drinks. Some models can only cool, while others can also freeze. A range that goes down to 0°F (-18°C) is ideal if you need to freeze items. For general cooling, a range of 32°F (0°C) to 50°F (10°C) is sufficient. Think about what you plan to store and choose a refrigerator with a temperature range that meets those requirements.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency refers to how much power the refrigerator uses to maintain its temperature. This is important for conserving your car's battery life and reducing energy consumption. Look for models with energy-saving features like eco mode or low power consumption ratings. If you plan to use the refrigerator for extended periods, an energy-efficient model will be more beneficial. Consider how long you will be running the refrigerator and choose one that balances performance with energy use.
Size and PortabilitySize and portability refer to the physical dimensions and weight of the refrigerator, which affect how easy it is to transport and fit in your car. This is important for ensuring the refrigerator fits in your vehicle and can be moved easily. Compact and lightweight models are ideal for smaller cars and frequent moving. Larger models may offer more capacity but can be harder to transport. Measure the available space in your car and consider how often you will need to move the refrigerator to choose the right size and portability.
DurabilityDurability refers to how well the refrigerator can withstand rough conditions, such as bumpy roads or outdoor environments. This is important for ensuring the refrigerator lasts a long time and performs well in various conditions. Look for models with sturdy construction, reinforced corners, and high-quality materials. If you plan to use the refrigerator in rugged conditions, a more durable model will be necessary. Consider the environments you will be using the refrigerator in and choose one that can handle those conditions.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features can include things like digital displays, adjustable shelves, USB ports, and built-in battery protection. These features can enhance convenience and usability. For example, a digital display can make it easier to monitor and adjust the temperature, while built-in battery protection can prevent your car battery from draining. Think about which features will make your experience more convenient and enjoyable, and choose a refrigerator that offers those extras.

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