If you’re someone who loves road trips, weekend getaways, or just keeping your drinks cool during long drives, then a car fridge is definitely a game changer. Today’s car fridges have evolved, boasting not only advanced cooling technology and energy efficiency, but also app controls or even integrated ice makers.
But with so many choices out there, it can be tricky to figure out which one’s right for you. Don’t worry though. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the 5 best car fridge models for 2025, share tips on what to look for when picking one, and offer advice on how to keep your fridge in top shape. Let’s make sure your next adventure is a little cooler!
Top 5 Best Car Fridges for 2025
Choosing the best car refrigerator can make all the difference to your travel experience. Be it a trip to the Scottish Highlands or a sunny ride at the beach, these top picks for 2025 will keep your food and drinks perfectly chilled.
1. EcoFlow GLACIER
If you’re looking for the best fridge freezer for car, the EcoFlow GLACIER is a game-changer with its 3-in-1 design. Not only can it chill your drinks and freeze your meat, but it also doubles as an ice maker, providing up to 18 ice cubes in just 12 minutes, ensuring you always have cold refreshments at hand.
The GLACIER boasts dual-zone cooling, allowing you to refrigerate and freeze items simultaneously in separate sections with independent temperature controls. It cools from 30°C (86°F) to 0°C (32°F) in just 15 minutes, and with a 298Wh battery, you can enjoy up to 40 hours of chilled goods without worrying about power. Plus, its removable suitcase design and smart app control make it both user-friendly and adaptable to any situation.
What’s good:
- Integrated ice maker: Produces 18 solid ice cubes in just 12 minutes, making it perfect for spontaneous picnics or a cold drink while on the move.
- Dual-zone, dual control: Customizable cooling temperature for two different sections—one for freezing and one for refrigerating.
- Fast cooling: Cools from 30°C to 0°C in around 15 minutes, perfect for when you need a quick chill.
- Wire-free cooling: With a large battery capacity (298Wh), you can enjoy up to 40 hours of cooling without needing to plug it in. Plus, it has a 100W max USB-C port to charge your phone or laptop.
- 38L large capacity: Ample space for food, drinks, and snacks.
- Detachable suitcase design: Detachable wheels and handle make it easy to move from the car to your campsite or RV.
- Smart app control: Control the temperature via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, offering added convenience when adjusting settings remotely.
- Eco mode: Reduces energy consumption, using only 0.18 kWh per day—ideal for conserving power on long trips.
- Multiple power supply methods: Charge via DC 12V/24V car power, AC 100V-240V socket, or even with solar panels for off-grid adventures. With up to 240W solar input, it can be fully charged in as fast as 2.1 hours.
2. Alpicool TAW35
The Alpicool TAW35 is a compact and efficient 35L car fridge that excels at energy-saving while maintaining top-notch cooling performance. With a powerful compressor, it can chill down to -20°C, and its dual temperature zones allow you to store both frozen and refrigerated items independently. Its user-friendly design with a portable handle and wheels makes it a convenient option for those on the go.
What’s good:
- Efficient cooling: Reaches temperatures as low as -20°C.
- Super energy-saving: Consumes less than 1kWh per day in ECO mode, ensuring minimal power use.
- Dual compartments with individual temperature control: Allows for more organized storage with flexibility for different types of items.
- Portable and user-friendly: Includes large wheels, a pull-up handle, and a removable basket for easy mobility and storage.
3. Russell Hobbs Mini Cooler RH4CLR1001B
If you’re looking for a mini fridge for car, the Russell Hobbs Mini Cooler is a fantastic choice. With a retro 1950s design, this compact fridge has a 4L capacity and is perfect for keeping six cans of your favourite beverage cold or storing skincare and cosmetics. Plus, its versatile thermoelectric system allows it to heat as well as cool, giving it year-round functionality.
What’s good:
- Compact and portable: Only 2kg, with a foldable carry handle, making it easy to transport.
- Dual function (cooling and heating): Cools up to 20°C below ambient temperature or warms up to 65°C, offering year-round use.
- Retro design: Adds a stylish, nostalgic touch to any room or space.
- Whisper-quiet: Operates at only 27dB.
4. AAOBOSI Camping Fridge 75L
The AAOBOSI 75L car fridge is perfect for those who need plenty of space and flexibility for outdoor adventures. With a dual-zone design, it offers independent temperature control, so you can refrigerate and freeze items simultaneously. The Wi-Fi-enabled app control makes it easy to adjust settings remotely. Whether you’re camping or road-tripping, this fridge’s large capacity and ability to run on various power sources make it a top choice for extended trips.
What’s good:
- Dual zone with independent temperature control: Perfect for storing both frozen and refrigerated items.
- App control: Allows you to control the fridge from a distance via Wi-Fi, giving you convenience while on the go.
- Large 75L capacity: Plenty of room for all your food and drinks.
- Multiple power options: Works with DC 12V/24V car power, AC 100-240V, or solar panels, making it ideal for all kinds of outdoor trips.
- User-friendly design: Includes wheels, retractable handle, LED lights, and a bottle opener for extra convenience.
5. EUHOMY 45L Car Fridge Freezer
The EUHOMY 45L Car Fridge Freezer is a versatile and efficient option for anyone in need of reliable cooling during their travels. With dual-zone storage, it allows you to keep frozen and chilled items in separate compartments. It cools quickly from 25°C to 0°C in just 15 minutes, and its Bluetooth connectivity enables remote control from your phone. This best 12V fridge for car is perfect for road trips or camping, offering convenience and ease of use at every stop.
What’s good:
- Fast cooling: Cools from 25°C to 0°C in just 15 minutes.
- Dual-zone storage: Organize frozen and refrigerated items separately with independent temperature control.
- Low voltage protection: Prevents your vehicle’s battery from draining with three adjustable levels of protection.
- Quiet operation: Runs at just 40dB, making it perfect for quiet environments.
What to Look for When Choosing a Car Fridge?
Choosing the right car fridge for your outdoor recreation is all about understanding your needs and making sure the fridge will work well with your lifestyle and travel habits. Here’s a breakdown of what to look for:
Size and Capacity
One of the first things to think about is how much space you need. If you’re travelling solo or just need to keep a few drinks cold, a smaller fridge (10-20L) will likely be sufficient. For family trips or longer journeys, you may want a camping fridge with more storage (30L-40L or above) to accommodate food, drinks, and snacks for everyone.
Just remember larger fridges take up more boot space and use more power. Measure your car’s available area before buying!
Cooling Speed and Temperature Range
Different types of portable fridges use different cooling technologies, but a good car fridge should cool efficiently and quickly, especially when you first plug it in. Look for models that can rapidly bring the temperature down, especially in warm weather. Insulation quality also affects performance, so prioritize thick walls and airtight seals.
Also, consider the temperature range—if you need to freeze meat or ice cream, make sure the fridge can go as low as -20°C or even lower. Some fridges also offer dual-zone capabilities, letting you set different temperatures for different sections, which is ideal if you need to store both frozen and refrigerated items at the same time.
Power Options
Car fridges typically run on the 12V DC car socket, but many models can also work with 24V DC, 110V-240V AC (home outlet), or even solar power. If you’re planning to use the fridge in multiple settings (car, RV, campsite), it’s essential to check whether it offers the right power options for your needs.
Having multiple power options makes it much more versatile and practical, especially when you need to keep fridge cold without power for those off-the-beaten-path trips.
Energy Efficiency
Since you’ll likely be powering your car fridge from your vehicle’s battery or a portable power source, energy efficiency is crucial. Look for a fridge with low power consumption to avoid draining your battery quickly. Some models come with energy-saving modes that help extend battery life.
Portability and Design
You’ll want a car fridge that’s easy to move and transport, especially if you’re using it for car camping or other outdoor activities. Check for features like wheels, handles, lightweight materials, and sturdy exteriors (think scratch-resistant!).
The fridge should also be designed for easy access to your items, with adjustable shelves or baskets for convenient storage. Additionally, consider how much space it will take up in your car, as some fridges are more compact or have a flexible design that fits well in different spaces.
Extra Features
Modern car fridges come with handy add-ons:
- Battery protection: Automatically shuts off if your car battery runs low.
- USB ports: Charge devices on the go.
- Reversible doors: Handy for fitting into tight spaces.
- Digital displays and app control: For precise temperature control.
Tips to Maintain and Care for Your Car Fridge
Once you have found the perfect car fridge, it is important to take good care of it.
- Clean it regularly: Wipe down the interior and exterior of your fridge with a damp cloth to remove dirt and spills.
- Defrost when needed: If your fridge has a freezer function, make sure to defrost it regularly to prevent ice buildup.
- Check the seals: Inspect the door seals for cracks or damage. A tight seal is essential for maintaining the fridge’s cooling efficiency.
- Avoid overloading: Don’t pack your fridge too full, as this can restrict airflow and reduce cooling performance.
- Store it properly: When not in use, store your fridge in a cool, dry place to protect it from damage.
Conclusion
Finding the best car fridge can truly level up your travel game, whether you’re heading out on a road trip, camping, or just need a reliable way to keep things cold in the car. Each of our top picks offers unique advantages—from rapid cooling and energy efficiency to robust build quality and user-friendly controls. By considering factors like capacity, power supply, cooling technology, noise level, durability, and more, you’re all set to choose the one that suits your needs the most!
FAQs
Who makes the best car fridge?
While there are many great brands out there, EcoFlow stands out for its innovative designs and reliable performance. Their car fridges, like the 38L EcoFlow GLACIER, combine multiple features like fast cooling, dual-zone control, and even an integrated ice maker. With excellent battery life, solar charging options, and smart app controls, EcoFlow makes some of the best car fridges for both convenience and efficiency.
What size car fridge should I get?
When choosing a car fridge, consider your travel habits and vehicle space. For short trips or solo outings, a smaller unit (around 10–20L) might be perfect. However, if you often travel with family or on longer journeys, a larger fridge (30-40L or more) offers the extra capacity needed for drinks, snacks, and meals. Balancing your storage requirements with available car space ensures you pick a model that’s both practical and efficient for your needs.
Can a car fridge be used for both cooling and freezing?
Yes, many car fridges can be used for both cooling and freezing. These fridges often come with dual-zone functionality, allowing you to set different temperatures for each section. This means you can keep some items chilled while freezing others, making them versatile for all kinds of trips.