Plug in coolers

Best Plug in Coolers, Mini Refrigerators for Cars, and RVs

Plug in coolers for cars are a great way to keep your food and drinks cold while on the go. They work by plugging into your car’s cigarette lighter socket and using the power from your car’s battery to keep your food and drinks cool. Most plug in coolers come with a variety of different features, such as adjustable thermostats, removable shelves, and even built-in fans to help circulate the cold air. Some even come with extra features like USB ports, so you can charge your phone or other devices while on the road. 

These 12v mini refrigerators keep the food perishable for long periods – and unlike, regular rotomolded coolers they don’t rely on ice to preserve the low temperature inside. Instead, they are equipped with a 12v adapter that can be easily connected to the car’s cigarette lighter socket and keep your food cold and sometimes warm as well. 

However, finding the best 12v camper fridge for your next trips is not an easy task. There are so many varieties – ranging from the basic portable car fridge to ones integrated with mobile apps. And even models that are powered using solar energy!

So without further ado, let’s get on with our list!

Small and Affordable

Best small Plug in Coolers for Cars -Comparison Table

Wagan 12V Thermoelectric Cooler K-box Electric Cooler and Warmer Igloo 28 Quarts Thermoelectric Cooler Ivation Electric Cooler & Warmer Koolatron Thermoelectric 12V Cooler

Can hold up to 27 Cans
Stores about 60 cans of soda
Can hold up to 32 cans
Holds about 60 cans of Soda
Can hold up to 23 cans
Functions as a Cooler or a Warmer
A cooler and a warmer
High-quality cooler
Provides Dependable Cooling & Warming
Both a cooler and warmer
Operates on 12v DC (cord included)
Features dual 110V AC and 12V DC plugs
With 8' long power cord plugs into any 12V DC receptacle
with a Hideaway AC Power Cord & DC Adapter
Plugs Into Any 12V Outlet
1-2 years warranty
Limited warranty
No Warranty
1 year manufacturer's warranty
1 year manufacturer warranty

List of Small 12v Plug in Thermoelectric coolers

Other Sizes – 

Wagan EL6224 12V Personal Thermoelectric Cooler/Warmer is a portable electric car cooler cum warmer with 12/24V DC power. With a 24 liter capacity, it can store up to 12 cans or 6 bottles. The Wagan cooler has a cooling mode and a warming mode. In the cooling mode, the Wagan cooler can cool down to 36°F below the ambient temperature and in the warming mode it can warm up to 140°F. This is a mini 12v cooler and has two compartments, one for cooling and one for warming. 

It also has an LED light that turns on when the power is turned on. Moreover, this plug in thermoelectric cooler is made of durable ABS plastic and has a carrying handle for easy portability. When it comes to the outdoor activities, the Wagan cooler is great for road trips, camping, picnics, and tailgating. Also, it comes with a 1-year warranty. Overall, the Wagan EL6224 12V Personal Thermoelectric Cooler/Warmer is a great car cooler cum warmer with many features that make it perfect for use on the go.

The K-box Electric Cooler and Warmer with Wheels is a great choice for those who want a reliable 12v plug in cooler that can be used both at home and on the go. This cooler features dual 110V AC and 12V DC plugs, so it can be plugged into either a house outlet or a car adapter. It also has six feet of extra-long cables, making it easy to reach different outlets. This cooler also has a large capacity of a 48-quart (45 liter), making it ideal for storing food and drinks for long periods of time.

In addition, the K-box Electric Cooler and Warmer has wheels, making it easy to transport from one location to another. 

Yes, as the name hints – the Knox product doubles as a warmer. And you can easily toggle between the two modes by flipping a single switch from the box. 

The cooler box has a unique sealing property, unlike others reviewed in this guide. It will automatically seal itself when you turn the handle into the locking position. This helps keep the food preserved at low temperatures, even when the car is not running. The K-box Electric Cooler and Warmer is a great choice for those who want a versatile and reliable cooler. 

Igloo is one of the top brands of portable plug in coolers and traditional coolers which is renowned for its quality products. Their 28-quart thermoelectric iceless cooler doesn’t disappoint as well and offers a great value for the money. 

For starters, the 12v cooler is HUGE with a capacity to hold 28 quarts or 26.5 liters making it the best plug in cooler for cars. However, don’t let the size fool you as the cooler remains lightweight, despite the weight you put in. 

The material used on the exteriors is hard and durable, with insulating material on the edges. This ensures that your perishable items don’t lose the quality, even when the car is switched off. 

The cooling element is provided by the thermoelectric technology that keeps the cooler’s contents down to 36 degrees Fahrenheit. Moreover, the Igloo thermoelectric cooler is pretty much noiseless. In fact, you may not even notice the cooler to be there while enjoying with friends and family during long hauls. 

An eight-foot-long cable is provided with the cooler. The cable can be connected to any DC outlet while you can push the cooler as far as the back of your car to make your trip comfortable. 

Other Sizes

25 Liter

As the name suggests, this is a 2-in-1 box that maintains cold drinks at 40 degrees Fahrenheit and doubles up as a food warmer to keep food and drinks hot up to 130 degrees. The modes in this 12v plug in cooler can easily be changed by pressing a single switch, located on the container’s sides. 

When it comes to the interior, the Ivation 12v electric cooler has the capacity to hold up to 25 liters of perishables. At just 10.6 lbs., the cooler is portable. And the integrated handles come in extra handy when you need to carry it around. It is also easy to clean, thanks to the innovative design and no-ice technology. 

We especially liked the dual-adapters that come with the Ivation electric cooler and warmer. You can plug it into the DC adapter of any car, while an AC power cord for standard wall outlets is also supplied for your in-house charging. 

The Koolatron is an efficient thermoelectric cooler capable of keeping its contents cool to 40 degrees Fahrenheit below ambient temperature. It will also warm upto 140 degrees Fahrenheit when you need to warm your Food. 

The lightweight companion has a hard-body and its lid is relatively easy to seal. The average capacity for Koolatron is around 23 12-ounces can of soda which should be enough for a small group. When it comes to charging, the connection is via the cigarette lighter port of any car. Best of all, it is priced very reasonably for such a handy model. 

Koolatron is a renowned name in the cooler industry and has been manufacturing the same in USA and Canada markets for the past 35 years. With a history like this, you can be assured that you are in safe hands when buying their product. 

The F40C4TMP Portable Refrigerator is a versatile and convenient fridge that can be used in a variety of settings. Whether you’re camping, traveling, or just need an extra car fridge for your home, this compact unit is up to the task. It features a temperature range of -7.6℉ to 50℉, making it ideal for storing both food and beverages. Additionally, the dc refrigerator can be powered by either 110-240V AC or 12V DC, making it perfect for use in RVs, trucks, and boats. AC supply will be converted to DC with the help of an adapter. 

The F40C4TMP Portable 12v refrigerator for car Keep Ice Cream Frozen. This mini car fridge consumes just 1 kWh of electricity per day, making it an extremely energy-efficient option for those looking to keep their food cold while on the go. With its spacious 26 cans capacity, the F40C4TMP Portable Refrigerator is a great option for those who need a reliable and affordable camper fridge.

Best Mid-Range

Best Mid range Plug in coolers / Mini refrigerators

Igloo Thermoelectric 35 Qt 12V Cooler Coleman 40-Quart Portable Cooler Setpower AJ50 Portable Freezer Fridge Domende 54qt Car Refrigerator AUTOOMMO 34 Quart Plug In Cooler COSTWAY 12v Car cooler

35 Quart Cooler
40 Quart Cooler
53 Quart Cooler
54 Quart cooler
34 Quart Cooler
53 Quart Cooler
12V DC, 110V AC (needs Converter)
Powered using a 12v car adapter
Comes with 120/240V AC and 12/24V DC adapters
With 12/24V DC inputs and 90V to 240V AC inputs
With 12/24V DC adapter and a long 79in 110V/240 AC adapter
Can be plug to 100V to 240V outlet or a 12/24V power source
Thermoelectric cooling and heating function
Thermoelectric cooling and heating function
Compressor Based Cooler
Compressor Based Cooler
Compressor Based Cooler
Compressor Based Cooler
1 year warranty
1 Year Limited warranty
3 Years Warranty
1 Year Warranty
No Warranty details identified
1 Year Warranty

The Igloo Thermoelectric Iceless 35 Qt Electric Plug-in Cooler is a versatile and convenient option for keeping food and beverages cool or warm. This cooler can cool interior (without ice) up to 36 below ambient temperature, and if required, this cooler can heat with up to 135 degrees F temperature. 

Similar to the Coleman variety, the Igloo thermoelectric cooler has a dual-orientation and can double up as a fridge when you are not using it as an ice chest. Adjustable shelves and dividers are included so you can adjust as per your requirements. 

Additionally, the Igloo Thermoelectric Iceless Cooler comes with wheels and a handle for easy transport. This makes it an ideal option for picnics, tailgating, camping, or any other time when you need to keep food and drinks at a specific temperature. Whether you are looking to keep your food cool in the summer heat or warm in the winter cold, the Igloo Thermoelectric Iceless Cooler is a great option.

The Coleman cooler can hold up to 44 cans of soda, along with other snacks. Consider it similar to a mini-fridge that not only works on the road – but is an ideal addition to offices and dorm rooms. 

One of the most distinguishing features of the Coleman cooler is that you can either use it as a regular ice cooler or place it upright, like a refrigerator. Regardless of the position you use, removable shelves are included so you can easily adjust the layout of the fridge according to your preference. You can also change the direction of the door to open from either side. 

Just like other iceless coolers, the Coleman product is also powered using a 12v car adapter. However, you will have to purchase a separate electric adapter for indoor use. 

The only drawback is that the cooler lacks warming capabilities. At 18 pounds, the cooler can be a bit bulky and may cause a hassle if you have to walk for long carrying it. 

Other than that, its quite affordable, considering some of the features that are unique to this product. 

The Setpower AJ50 Portable plug in mini refrigerator is a must-have for any camper or traveler. It can hold up to 53 quarts, making it perfect for storing food and drinks while on the go. The cooler can be plugged into any standard outlet, and it also comes with an adapter for using in the car. The Setpower AJ50 portable fridge has a temperature range of 0℉ to 50℉, making it perfect for keeping food and drinks cold. The dc refrigerator also has a built-in fan for circulating air, ensuring that your food and drinks stay chilled. 

Setpower 12v Plug in Cooler Comes with a warranty of 3 years on the compressor and  1 year warranty for remaining parts. You can also choose ECO mode for energy-saving which enables low consumption of less than 1KW.H/24H. Moreover, Setpower plug in cooler does not make noise when functioning.

The Setpower AJ50 portable cooler is one of the best Camping fridge to keep your food and drinks cold while you enjoy the outdoors.

The Domende 54qt 12 volt plug in Cooler is a great way to keep your food and beverages cool while on the go. This cooler can be plugged into any 12 volt or 24 volt DC power source, making it perfect for use in cars, trucks, and RVs. The cooler has a spacious 54 quart capacity, making it large enough to store plenty of food and drinks for your next outing. Additionally, the dc refrigerator features an easy-to-use push button control panel that makes it simple to adjust the temperature to your desired level. 

One of the best features of this mini car fridge is its battery protection mode. This mode allows you to choose from three different levels of protection (high, medium, or low) depending on your needs. If you’re using the cooler in your car, for example, it’s best to set the protection level to medium. 

This way, you can be sure that your camping fridge and your car battery are both protected. Whether you’re going on a long road trip or just spending a day at the beach, the Domende 54qt 12 volt plug in cooler is a great way to keep your food and drinks cold.

The AUTOOMMO 12v refrigerator is a top of the line cooler that is perfect for keeping your food and drinks cold during long road trips. This car freezer is made from durable materials and features a sleek design that takes up minimal space in your car. 

The AUTOOMMO Electric plug in Cooler also features a built-in ice maker that ensures you always have ice on hand, and a self-cleaning feature that keeps the cooler clean and free of bacteria. The portable refrigerator also comes with a remote control so you can easily adjust the temperature, and an LED light that illuminates your food and drinks so you can find what you need quickly. 

Overall, the AUTOOMMO 34 Quart Car Cooler is a high-quality refrigerator that has all the features you need to keep your food and drinks cold on long road trips. 

The COSTWAY 12v Car Cooler is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a portable fridge/freezer. It is large enough to accommodate all of your food and drink needs, yet small enough to fit in most cars and trucks. The temperature range of -6°F to 68° F means that you can keep your food and drink cold or frozen, making it the perfect solution for long trips. 

The cooler also comes with a built-in LED light, making it easy to find everything you need in the dark. Whether you are planning a long road trip or just need a reliable way to keep your food and drink cold, the COSTWAY 12v Car Cooler is the perfect 12v Camper fridge.

The COSTWAY 12v Car Cooler is a safe and reliable way to keep your food and drinks cold while on the road. The cooler is equipped with a 3-level battery monitor to protect your automobile batteries, and it has a shock-proof design to face the uneven road. 

Additionally, the cooler can work with a standard household 100V to 240V outlet or a 12/24V power source, like an automotive battery. With its easy-to-use design and safety features, the COSTWAY car refrigerator is a must-have for any road trip.

Best Premium Plug in Coolers

Best Premium Portable 12v Refrigerators

Dometic CFX3 35 Quart Electric Plug in Cooler BODEGA 12 Volt Portable Electric Plug in Cooler BougeRV 12 Volt Thermoelectric Cooler ICECO JP30 Portable Refrigerator, 12V Car Fridge

35 Liters
50 Liters
28 Liters
31 liters
Powered via AC, DC or Solar
Equipped with 120/240V AC and 12/24V DC adapters
Runs on 12/24V DC 110~240 Volt AC
Runs on 12/24V DC 110~240 Volt AC
Powerful Compressor enables Deep Freeze
Has Strong compressor and energy saving
Energy-efficient cooler
High-Quality Portable Fridge
5 year limited warranty
With 2-Years warranty
2-year warranty for the compressor and all other accessories
5 Years warranty on the compressor and 1 Year warranty on all other parts

The Dometic CFX3 electric cooler is one of the most popular mini refrigerators on the market. It features a compact design that makes it easy to transport, and it comes with a variety of features that make it ideal for camping and tailgating. The CFX3 has two separate compartments, so you can keep your food and drinks separate. 

It also has an adjustable thermostat, so you can set it to the perfect temperature for your needs. The CFX3 also comes with a built-in drain pump, so you can easily empty any melted ice. With its many features and affordable price, it’s no wonder the CFX3 is one of the most popular electric coolers on the market.

It features a lightweight design and a sturdy carry handle to ensure convenience when searching for the perfect picnic spot. The maximum holding capacity is 33 liters with adjustable shelves to keep the contents organized. The 12v cooler is mainly for the car but  can also be transformed for indoor use or charging via a 110 V AC adapter. 

It also has a memory tool that will remember your setting for future getaways. 

Pros:

  • Lightweight design for ease of portability
  • 7-stage temperature regulation
  • Memory remembering function 

The BODEGA 12 Volt Portable Electric Plug in Cooler is the perfect way to keep your food and drinks cold while on the go. This mini fridge features a durable construction that can withstand the rigors of travel, and it comes with a convenient carrying handle and a pair of wheels for easy transport. The unit also includes a built-in fan for circulating air, and it comes with a removable shelf for organizing your belongings

In addition, the BODEGA 12 Volt Portable Electric Plug in Cooler has a 1.5-amp power cord that can be plugged into any standard outlet, making it easy to keep your refrigerator powered up and ready to go. It also connects with your mobile using an IOS/Android app which is handy for you when you are on an outing. Whether you’re headed out on a road trip or just looking for a compact way to keep your food and drinks chilled, the BODEGA 12 Volt Portable Electric Plug in Cooler is the ideal solution.

Pros:

  • Large storage for food and drinks
  • Has an app control

The BougeRV 12 Volt Refrigerator is a portable freezer compressor cooler that runs on 12/24V DC 110~240 Volt AC. It has a temperature range of -7℉~50℉. This fridge is perfect for those who want to keep their food and drinks cold while on the go. It features a compact design that makes it easy to transport, and its insulation keeps contents cold for up to 10 hours. The fridge also has a built-in LED light for added convenience

The BougeRV cooler is designed with a 3-level battery monitor to help prevent the fridge from draining your vehicle’s battery. When this mini fridge is turned on, the monitor will automatically check the battery level and will only allow the fridge to operate if the battery level is above a certain threshold. If the battery level drops below this threshold, the fridge will automatically shut off. This feature helps to ensure that your vehicle’s battery will not be drained by the fridge, even if it is left on for an extended period of time. 

In addition, the monitor will also display a warning if the battery level drops below a certain point, so that you can take action to avoid having your vehicle’s battery die. Overall, BougeRV offers one of the best camping fridge for outdoor and RV fans.

IceCO is a Well known Brand

The ICECO JP30 Portable Plug in Cooler is the perfect way to keep your food and drinks cold when you’re on the road. This compact cooler can be plugged into any standard 12v outlet, making it perfect for use in your car, RV or truck. The JP30 features a powerful cooling system that can keep your food and drinks cold for up to 10 hours, and it also has a convenient carrying handle for easy transport. 

The ICECO JP30 cooler is a dc refrigerator that has a number of features that make it an ideal choice for use in a variety of settings. One of the most notable features of the JP30 is its 12-foot-long extend DC power cable. This allows the cooler to be used in a variety of locations, including those where there is no AC power source. Additionally, the JP30 features an adjustable temperature control, allowing the user to set the temperature from -7℉ to 50℉. The cooler also has a 5-year warranty on the compressor and a 1-year warranty on all other parts. Additionally, the JP30 is an economical choice, as it uses less power than many other coolers on the market. As a result, the ICECO JP30 is an excellent choice for those looking for an affordable and reliable cooler.

It doesn’t matter where you are headed, ICECO JP30 Portable Plug in Cooler is a great option for your outdoor lifestyle.

Should you buy an Electrical plug in cooler or a rotomolded cooler for camping?

When it comes to choosing a cooler for camping, there are two main types to choose from: electrical plug in coolers and rotomolded coolers. Both have their own pros and cons, so it’s important to consider your needs before making a decision. 

Electrical plug in coolers are more expensive than rotomolded coolers, but they’re also more convenient. You can simply plug them into your vehicle’s cigarette lighter socket and they’ll keep your food and drinks cold for hours. 

However, they’re not as durable as rotomolded coolers and can’t be used without a power source. Rotomolded large coolers are more expensive up front, but they’re built to last. They’re also more versatile, as they can be used with or without a power source. 

If you’re looking for a durable cooler that will last for years, a rotomolded cooler is the way to go. However, if you’re looking for convenience, an electrical plug in cooler is the better choice.

Conclusion

Plug in coolers for cars are an excellent investment for those who travel via car frequently; go for tailgating and camping trips. With the wide variety available of iceless coolers available, we are sure you will also find something that fits perfectly with your next trip plans.

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