Camping is an exhilarating experience that brings us closer to nature. But, as we embrace the wild, we don't necessarily have to give up all our modern comforts. One such luxury is having a cold drink or fresh food, thanks to portable fridge freezers designed for camping. With a plethora of options available, choosing the right one can be daunting. In this guide, we'll explore the best portable fridge freezers for camping and answer some common questions.


Popular Portable Fridge Freezer Manufacturers:

  • Dometic - Renowned for its high-quality products, Dometic offers a range of portable fridge freezers suitable for various camping needs.
  • ARB - Known for their rugged designs, ARB fridge freezers are built to withstand the challenges of outdoor adventures.
  • Engel - With a reputation for durability and efficiency, Engel's portable fridges are a favourite among many campers.
  • Waeco - Offering a balance between performance and price, Waeco's range is worth considering for budget-conscious campers.
  • Alpicool - A newer entrant, Alpicool provides affordable and efficient solutions for those looking for portable cooling options.
  • DT Adventure - A rising star in the camping world, DT Adventure combines innovative design with reliability, making it a top choice for modern campers.


What size portable fridge is best for camping?

The ideal size of a portable fridge for camping largely depends on the duration of your trip, the number of people, and the type of food and drinks you plan to store. Here's a general guideline:

  • Solo or Couple Campers (1-3 days): A 20-30 litre fridge is sufficient. It can store essential perishables and a few drinks.
  • Family Camping (1-3 days): A 40-50 litre fridge would be more appropriate to cater to the needs of a family.
  • Extended Trips (more than 3 days): Consider a fridge of 50 litres or more. Some campers even opt for dual-zone fridge freezers that have separate compartments for refrigeration and freezing.


What is the best refrigerator for camping?

The "best" refrigerator largely depends on individual needs. However, considering factors like durability, efficiency, and price, the Dometic CFX3 series often stands out. It offers a range of sizes, is energy-efficient, and comes with features like WiFi control. That said, it's essential to assess your needs and budget before making a decision.


How long will a camping fridge run on a battery?

The duration a camping fridge can run on a battery depends on several factors:

  • Fridge Efficiency: Some fridges are more energy-efficient than others.
  • Battery Capacity: A larger battery will naturally last longer.
  • Ambient Temperature: In hotter conditions, the fridge will work harder to keep contents cool, draining the battery faster.
  • Fridge Contents: A fridge full of cold items will use less energy than one trying to cool down warm items.

On average, a fully charged 100Ah deep-cycle battery can run a typical portable fridge (drawing about 1-2 amps per hour) for around 50-70 hours without recharging, assuming no other loads on the battery. However, it's not advisable to drain a battery completely, so practical usage might be shorter.


How do you power a fridge while camping?

There are several ways to power a portable fridge during camping:

  • Vehicle Battery: Many portable fridges come with a 12V plug suitable for your vehicle's cigarette lighter socket. However, be cautious not to drain your vehicle's starter battery.
  • Dual Battery System: This involves installing a second battery in your vehicle, dedicated to running accessories like your fridge. It ensures your starter battery remains unaffected.
  • Solar Panels: For extended camping trips, solar panels can be a sustainable way to recharge your camping battery during the day.
  • Portable Power Stations: These are essentially large batteries with multiple outputs. They can be charged at home, via solar panels, or through your vehicle.
  • Generators: While less eco-friendly and noisier, a generator can provide power for all your camping needs, including running a fridge.


Conclusion:

A camping trip doesn't mean compromising on fresh food and cold drinks. With the right portable fridge freezer, you can enjoy the comforts of chilled beverages and perishables even in the wild. By considering factors like size, power source, and efficiency, you can find the perfect fridge to accompany you on your next outdoor adventure.