Complete Buyers Guide to Portable Camping Fridges

A portable camping fridge is an essential piece of gear for every camping trip. It will keep your drinks cool, your food fresh, and even make ice for your bevvies. Unlike traditional iceboxes, these compact and efficient fridges are designed to run on 12V, 24V or 240V power, making them ideal for caravans, camper trailers, 4WDs and tents. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know before buying a portable camping fridge – from the different types and features, to sizing, power requirements and the best brands on the market.

 

What Is A Portable Camping Fridge?

Portable camping fridges are designed to take on adventures. That means they are compact, mobile and easy to power.

Rather than permanently installing the fridge into your caravan, car or boat, you can easily move the fridge wherever you need to keep your food and drinks cold. That makes a camping fridge the ideal piece of travel gear for boating, camping, fishing, 4WD adventures, caravanning, and much more.

Camping fridges must be connected to a power source, with the most common being a 12/24 volt source from your battery.

 

Types Of Portable Fridges

To work out which type of fridge you need, you need to think about what you are using the fridge for. Will you be using it for long camping trips or short weekends away? Do you need a fridge and freezer at the same time, or can you get by with just a fridge or freezer?

 

Dual Zone Models 

Dual zone fridges feature two separate compartments, each with its own temperature control. This means you can run one side as a fridge and the other as a freezer—ideal for longer trips or family camping. Some models even let you convert both zones to either fridge or freezer as needed.

Best for: Extended trips, families, campers needing fridge + freezer

Dual zone models, like the Dometic CFX3 75DZ, give you all the flexibility of independently temperature-controlled zones. 

 

Single Zone Models 

A single zone fridge has one compartment that operates at a single temperature. You can set it as either a fridge or a freezer, but not both at the same time. These are a great choice for campers who don’t need to freeze items or prefer a simpler, more affordable setup.

Best for: Weekend campers, budget-conscious travellers

 

What Size Fridge Do You Need?

Portable camping fridges range from a super compact 13 litres up to 110 litres. So, which one should you choose? First, think about what you actually want to store in your fridge. There’s no need picking a fridge that is bigger than your needs, because you’ll wind up wasting power on cooling empty space.  But too small, and you’ll find yourself with some warm beers you can’t fit inside.

Consider how you will use your fridge on your trips. Do you just want to keep a few beers icy cold on a day trip or are you feeding your whole family on a weekend away?

 

Small (15–35L)

Compact and lightweight, small camping fridges are perfect for solo travellers, couples, or day trips. They can typically fit a few drinks, snacks, and some basic groceries.

 

Medium (36–55L)

This is the most popular size range, offering a good balance between capacity and portability. A 40L–50L fridge can usually hold enough food and drinks for two to three people for a few days.

 

Large (56–80L)

Designed for longer trips or larger groups, these fridges can store a week’s worth of food and drinks with ease. Many large models come with dual zone functionality, allowing you to run a fridge and freezer side by side.

 

Extra Large (80L+)

These are more like portable fridge/freezer combos and are ideal for extended off-grid adventures or serious overlanders. They’re often used in caravans or ute trays and can support big groups or long hauls without restocking.

 

Portable Camping Fridge Features

Do you want all the bells and whistles, or are you happy with a standard fridge that keeps things cool? Some fridges feature Bluetooth connectivity, which is great if you want to control the fridge settings. But that might be more technology than you need.

Features to look out for include:

• Removable baskets, compartments and dividers

• Interior lights

• Handles and latches

• Digital controls and WiFi connectivity

• Self-diagnostic fault system

• USB port and charger

• Bonus or optional accessories such as a fridge cover 

 

Top Portable Camping Fridge Brands

When it comes to choosing a reliable portable camping fridge, you’re spoiled for choice with top brands that have proven themselves in the harsh Australian outdoors. These brands are known for their durability, innovation, and after-sales support—so no matter where your adventures take you, you know you can count on your fridge.

 

Dometic - CFX Range

Dometic is a standout leader in portable fridge innovation. Known for their premium features, cutting-edge technology, and rugged design, Dometic fridges are built for serious campers. The CFX3 range features VMSO3 variable-speed compressor technology for excellent cooling and energy efficiency. Plus, you can control the temperature via a digital display or the Dometic app, making this one of the smartest portable fridges on the market.

• Warranty: 3 years + 2 years on the compressor

• Best for: Tech-savvy travellers, remote off-grid setups

• Price: Premium 

 

Engel – MT Range

Engel has been trusted by Aussie campers for decades thanks to their legendary durability. Their fridges feature the Sawafuji Swing Motor, known for its low power consumption and ability to perform in extreme conditions. The MT60F is a great all-rounder for families, offering dependable cooling in a robust build.

• Warranty: Varies by model, with nationwide support

• Best for: Rugged adventures, long-term reliability

• Price: Mid to high range

 

Evakool – Down Under Series

Evakool offers great value without sacrificing quality. Their fridges are built for Australian conditions and come in a range of single, dual, and tri-zone configurations. Models like the 75L Dual Zone offer removable baskets, durable design, and efficient cooling at a significantly lower price point than competitors.

• Warranty: 3 years + 5 years on the compressor

• Best for: Budget-conscious campers, families

• Price: Affordable – around $1,000 for a 75L model

 

myCOOLMAN – MC Range

myCOOLMAN is known for innovation and versatility. Their fridges are packed with smart features like dual-zone temperature control, Bluetooth connectivity, and a range of sizes to suit every adventure. Their rugged design and user-friendly interface make them a popular choice among modern campers.

• Warranty: Varies by model

• Best for: Modern travellers, tech features

• Price: Mid to high range

 

Maximise The Efficiency Of Your Portable Fridge

1. Your first step is to choose from one of the brands known for their quality. Dometic, Bushman and myCOOLMAN are the top tier brands that will serve you well for many years to come. These brands are known for their efficient compressors and well insulated construction.

2. Ensuring your food and drinks are already pre-chilled before packing to head away, will keep your portable fridge running easier for longer. Don't fill a fridge with hot drinks.

3. Packing your fridge smartly will keep your fridge running efficiently. If you start getting low on food and drinks, consider popping some bottles of water in the space. A cold bottle of water will keep the fridge cooler than an empty space when you are opening the fridge and letting warm air in.

4. Invest in quality solar. If your solar input is greater than your output, it will keep the voltage high. Higher voltage means less current draw and the ability to extend your trip time before going flat.

5. Ventilation is key. Your portable fridge will have vents near the internal compressor. It is important to keep these clear and clean at all times to ensure your fridge performs at its best....always. Dust can build up at the intake points around this area so maintenance at these points is imperative. 

6. Location is important. When using your fridge choose an area that is shaded as best you can. The cooler the ambient temperature of your space the easier your fridge will stay cool and less draw or your power system.

Pro Tip: Look out for bonus items that add additional value to the fridge, such as a fridge cover!

 

Portable Camping Fridge FAQs

1. What is the difference between a single zone and dual zone fridge?
A single zone fridge has one temperature-controlled compartment that acts as either a fridge or freezer. A dual zone fridge has two compartments with separate temperature controls, so you can use one as a fridge and the other as a freezer—perfect for longer trips or larger food storage needs.

2. How long will a 12V camping fridge run on a battery?
This depends on the fridge’s size, efficiency, and battery capacity. On average, a 12V fridge will draw 1–5 amps per hour. A 100Ah battery could run a medium-sized compressor fridge for 1–2 days without recharging. Using solar panels or a dual battery system will extend runtime significantly.

3. What are the most reliable portable camping fridge brands?
Top-rated brands in Australia include Dometic, Engel, Evakool, and myCOOLMAN. These brands are known for their rugged design, energy efficiency, and strong after-sales support—key features for Australian camping conditions.

4. Can I use a camping fridge as both a fridge and freezer?
Yes, but only if you choose a dual zone camping fridge. Single zone fridges can be set to either fridge or freezer mode, but not both at once. Dual zone models let you run both functions simultaneously, with independent temperature settings for each compartment.

5. Are camping fridges worth it compared to iceboxes or esky coolers?
Absolutely—if you camp regularly. Unlike iceboxes, a camping fridge doesn’t require ice, so you gain more internal storage space and don’t have to deal with melted water. They also maintain consistent temperatures, keeping your food fresher for longer.

6. Can I install a portable fridge myself?
Most 12V compressor fridges are plug-and-play, making DIY installation easy. However, if you’re wiring into a dual battery system or installing permanent mounts, you may want to consult an auto electrician to ensure safe setup.

 

A quality portable camping fridge can completely transform your outdoor experience—keeping your food fresh, drinks cold, and trips running smoothly. Whether you’re after a compact unit for weekend getaways or a dual zone powerhouse for off-grid adventures, there’s a fridge out there to suit your needs and budget. With trusted brands like Dometic, Engel, Evakool, and myCOOLMAN offering durable, feature-packed models, you can invest with confidence knowing your fridge is built to handle the tough Australian conditions. Ready to compare camping fridges? Shop trusted brands in our online store.

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DISCLAIMER* Please note, this advice is general in nature and we strongly recommend consulting the product manual and where relevant, a professional installer.

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