There are different types of car portable fridge freezer for your car or camper van. Here’s the one that best suits your travel style and budget.
Portable 12V compressor fridge
12V compressor refrigerators are the most popular and the ones you’ll see most during your travels, and for a good reason.
These refrigerators are designed for all types of vehicles, from 4×4 to boats, and are built with durability and efficiency in mind.
12V compressor refrigerators have highly efficient variable speed compressors that consume very little energy, can be used as a refrigerator or freezer.
They come in various configurations, including chest, vertical, and dual-zone refrigerators/freezers – and usually have the ability to operate at an inclination of up to 30 degrees (other types of refrigerators must be kept perfectly level when operating).
This combination of features makes these refrigerators perfect for van life.
Although the compressor refrigerators are amazing, they have one drawback: the cost.
Portable 12V refrigerators are more expensive than other options, and that’s important to keep in mind. Also, since you’re going to need to add an auxiliary battery and a means to charge them (such as solar panels, 110/ 220V connection, or a switch to the vehicle alternator).
If your goal is to turn the van into a wheeled house, investing in a refrigerator with a high-quality 12V compressor is worth it.
And please don’t do like us in our first van, and put a 220V car electronic refrigerator with an inverter. All you’re going to get are headaches and spoil the auxiliary battery too early.