Written by Marijn
Edited on
19 May 2025
·
14:41
How do you choose the right camping fridge?
You're going to take your caravan to France or your camper across the USA, and you're looking for a camping fridge. In that case, you need to consider different things than when you choose a fridge for home use. In this article, we'll explain the different types of camping fridges and tell you which one is most suitable for your vacation.
Choose a camping fridge
One thing all camping fridges have in common is that they keep your groceries cool. But how many groceries you can store in them, how they cool, and what they're most suitable for varies widely. Ask yourself the following questions:
- What model are you looking for?
- What cooling system do you want?
- What connector do you need?
Which model are you looking for?
Cooler: for on the go or at the beach
You can only cool small groceries in a cooler, such as soda cans, some grapes, or a piece of brie. When you take the cooler to the beach or the campsite, it's useful if it also fits in your car. You can cool the cooler with cooling elements or connect it to an energy source.
Mini fridge: for a caravan or tent
For a longer vacation in the caravan or tent, choose a mini fridge Sometimes, you also get a freezer compartment with space for a couple of popsicles. In the door compartments, you can place your milk carton or bottle of orange juice upright. You can connect the fridge to the socket.
Compact fridge: for a mobile home
A compact fridge is a bit larger than a mini fridge and has more space for your groceries. You can connect it in the kitchen of your mobile home, for example. A compact model has 2 shelves on average, so you can make space for a pot of soup.
Which cooling system do you want?
Compressor
A compressor fridge often works on a 230V energy source.
- Little impact of ambient temperature.
- Both cooling and freezing.
- Occasionally makes a buzzing sound.
Thermoelectric
A thermo-electric cooler works on a 12 or 24V energy source.
- Keeps products cool for longer.
- Suitable for in the car or truck.
- Cooling depends on ambient temperature.
- Makes a constant buzzing sound.
Insulation and/or cooling elements
This cooler has good insulation or you can use it in combination with separate cooling blocks.
- Noiseless.
- No plug required.
- Not suitable for long-term cooling.
Which connector do you need?
Mini fridges, some coolers, and compact fridges use 230V. That means you can plug them into any European socket, in your mobile home or on a boat, for example. Are you on the go in a car for a day? A cooler with a 12V connector is useful. You can put it in the cigarette lighter of your car, so you can cool snacks and drinks on the go.
Article by Marijn
Fridge Expert.
