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If it’s finally time to replace your Esky, we’re here to help you buy the best camping fridge for your needs.
When it comes to having fresh food and cold beer at the end of the day, a portable fridge makes camping life a lot easier; particularly if you're planning on hitting the road for longer than a weekend getaway. So what is the best camping fridge in Australia?
The best portable camping fridges will have the capacity and features you need for specific camping trips. Whether you need a small one for a weekend away or a larger one for a lap of the map, we have you covered. We’ve also included a buyers’ guide to help you decipher which portable camping fridge is going to be the best addition to your individual camping set-up.
JUMP AHEAD
- Companion Lithium Rechargeable
- Evakool Down Under II
- Dometic CFF
- Dometic CFX3
- myCOOLMAN The Ultimate
- Engel MT-V Combi
- Evakool 40L drawer
- Bushman DC130-X
Companion Lithium Rechargeable
In a market packed with 12V portable camping fridges, it's hard to find one with a point of difference. Companion’s Lithium Rechargeable camp fridges have just that, with an integrated 42AH lithium battery.
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This means it can be used anywhere. Better still, the battery is removable and can be used to power other devices via the integrated USB ports. The fridge can still be run without the battery by simply connecting it to a 12V battery or 240V mains.
It’s a good thing this unit comes in large sizes, as having a fridge with its own battery will allow you to go off-grid for longer. You can load up the 65L single compartment or the 75L dual-zone and head out on the road without even thinking about stopping at the supermarket to resupply. The Lithium Rechargeable models use a Secop compressor, which keeps power usage low. Plus, you can boost the efficiency even further by buying an insulated cover.
| Capacity (L) | 60 / 75 |
|---|---|
| Weight (kg) | 26 / 30 |
| Temperature range | Min -18°C |
Pros
- Has its own battery
- Completely portable
- Uses Secop compressor
Cons
- Weight
- Two size options only
- Cover sold separately
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Evakool Down Under II
Evakool Down Under II portable camping fridges are made in Australia.
They have all the necessary durability and usability features, along with some smart designs that provide versatility for all kinds of camping adventures. The Down Under II comes in three sizes – 65L, 85L and 95L – and each has a Secop compressor for efficient cooling and freezing. You can control the temperatures via a smartphone app or the fridge’s digital display.
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These camping fridge-freezers stand out from the pack with their usability. The two larger options (85L and 95L) have twin lids to access each side individually. The lids can also be completely removed or adjusted to open from either side. The 65L unit has a removable divider, meaning you can use it as one big fridge or as a dual fridge-freezer as needed.
Another great feature is the ability to turn one side off when not in use. This means you can buy a larger fridge for longer camping trips but not worry about wasting power if you are only going away for the weekend.
| Capacity (L) | 65 / 80 / 95 |
|---|---|
| Weight (kg) | 28 / 35 / 35 |
| Temperature range | 10°C to -18°C |
Pros
- Made in Australia
- Can switch off one side
- Removable divider on 65L
Cons
- Weight
- No small sizes
- Cover sold separately
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Dometic CFF
Dometic has great entry-level camping fridges in its CFF range. At the lower end of the price range, these camping fridges are built to last and packed full of useful features.
The fridges come in 20L, 44L and 70L capacities. The smaller two are single-compartment, while the 70L is a dual-compartment split into 40L and 30L. All models allow you to independently control the compartment temperatures for cooling or freezing.
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All three fridges in the CFF range have a removable lid, and the 45L and 70L lids are double-sided, allowing you to open them in either direction. These fridges have a low power draw, and the 44L and 70L models come with their own insulated cover to better improve the efficiency. If you’re just getting into the market and want a solid entry-level camping fridge-freezer, Dometic’s CFF range is very enticing.
| Capacity (L) | 20 / 45 / 70 |
|---|---|
| Weight (kg) | 10.8 / 18.9 / 26.4 |
| Temperature range | 10°C to -18°C |
Pros
- Includes insulated cover
- Good entry-level fridge
- Size range
Cons
- Non-folding handles
- No smartphone app
- Small and medium sizes only
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Dometic CFX3
Dometic’s CFX3 camping fridge-freezers are built tough for the outdoors, while still incorporating the right technology for easy use and a long lifespan.
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There are seven camping fridges in the CFX3 range, so no doubt there’ll be a size that’s right for you. Dometic has built its CFX range with durability in mind, but despite this they are at the lighter end for camp fridges thanks to Dometic’s Exoframe construction. All models use a VMSO3 compressor, which is built to last and will maximise efficiency.
You can grab a single-compartment fridge/freezer in 25L, 35L, 45L or 55L. Or upsize to a dual-compartment fridge-freezer in 75L or 95L. Then there’s a bonus 55L fridge-freezer, which is the only fridge on the market that includes ice trays and is capable of producing ice in just a few hours. A handy feature if you camp in the heat up north, or you like your evening beverage on the rocks.
| Capacity (L) | 25 / 35 / 45 / 55 / 55IM / 75 / 95 |
|---|---|
| Weight (kg) | 13.4 / 17.7 / 19.4 / 21.2 / 21.3 / 28.6 / 30.6 |
| Temperature range | Min -22°C |
Pros
- Size range
- Weight
- App to control and monitor temperature
Cons
- Price
- Covers not included
- Short power cords
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myCOOLMAN The Ultimate
myCOOLMAN is quickly making a name in the industry with its quality camp fridges such as The Ultimate.
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This 90L dual-zone fridge-freezer has some handy features like flush-folding handles and mounted bottle openers – and it is built to last. It has two compartments, 41L and 55L, and both can be set to different temperatures and controlled easily via the digital display or a smartphone app.
If you want to go further off-grid and need some extra battery power, you can grab a myCOOLMAN lithium power pack. Rather than lug a huge battery pack around, this purpose-built fridge-charging battery is compact and sticks to the side of the fridge using a magnet. It’s an additional cost and takes up a little extra space, but it will add more versatility to an already excellent camping fridge-freezer.
| Capacity (L) | 96 |
|---|---|
| Weight (kg) | 34.9 |
| Temperature range | 10°C to -22°C |
Pros
- Two-way opening lid
- Option to add battery pack
- Smartphone app
Cons
- Battery pack sold separately
- Price
- Weight
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Engel MT-V Combi
Engel’s MT-V Combi 39L camping fridge has one of the most versatile internal set-ups of any camping fridge listed here.
It has a removable cabinet divider which allows you to set up your own preferred configuration and operate it as a fridge, freezer or both simultaneously. The fridge has been designed for campers who like to change things up. If no two trips are the same for you, then you need a fridge-freezer that can keep up, and this is where Engel’s MT-V Combi comes in.
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Depending on what you're taking on your camping adventure – food, drinks, frozen items – it can be configured to keep everything fresh, chilled, cold or frozen. There are three different ways to configure this fridge: If you remove the cabinet divider you have the full 40 litres operating as a fridge; with the divider in you can have a 16L freezer and 23L fridge; or a 22L freezer and 17L fridge.
This fridge is powered by the Sawafuji Swing Motor for the lowest maximum power consumption. It is the latest model in the MT-V series of portable fridge-freezers – there’s also 57L and 75L dual-compartment fridges – but the only one with a removable divider.
| Capacity (L) | 39 |
|---|---|
| Weight (kg) | 24 |
| Temperature range | min -18°C |
Pros
- Versatile
- Removable divider
- Sawafuji Swing Motor
Cons
- Small capacity
- Price
- No smartphone app
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Evakool 40L drawer
Drawer fridges are a great solution for campers who need to save on space, and we reckon Evakool has a great option.
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It’s built to install in the back of a 4WD or ute and even comes with a mounting bracket, making it easy to install yourself. Simply bolt down the bracket and the fridge fits securely into it. While a lot of drawer fridges can only operate as a fridge, Evakool’s 40L can get to -16°C, allowing you to operate it as a freezer as well. This newer model has a Secop PBC 2.5 Compressor, which is covered by a five-year warranty to give you peace of mind.
The drawer-fridge design has flush sides, meaning there are no awkward handles. Plus you can stack things on top without having to remove them to open the fridge; simply grab the drawer handle with one hand and slide it open. It's perfect for when you have a freshly cooked snag in one hand and need something to wash it down with.
| Capacity (L) | 40 |
|---|---|
| Weight (kg) | 28 |
| Temperature range | 10°C to -16°C |
Pros
- Five-year compressor warranty
- Convenient
- Easy to use
Cons
- Small capacity
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Bushman DC130-X
Designed by an Australian company, the DC130-X by Bushman is an efficient upright fridge-freezer that is built to handle bumps and hot-weather conditions.
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This is the closest thing to taking your own fridge on the road. There is plenty of fridge space (124L), a 6L freezer, and even a vegetable crisper. Despite the spaciousness, the DC130-X is lightweight considering its size and capacity, and uses a Nidec Danfoss BD35 compressor which is built to last.
Despite having to permanently fix this fridge to your vehicle, it has adjustable shelves and a reversible door – so you can make it work for your own set-up. If you need a camping fridge with a large capacity, Bushman’s DC130-X upright fridge is well worth a look.
| Capacity (L) | 130 |
|---|---|
| Weight (kg) | 26 |
| Temperature range | 4°C to -12°C |
Pros
- Weight
- Nidec Danfoss BD35 compressor
- Price for capacity
Cons
- Not as durable as chest fridges
- Must be installed
- Fridge items move around when driving
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A buyers’ guide to camping fridges
Types of camping fridges
Chest fridges
The majority of camping fridges listed here are chest fridges. These are the most popular and will meet the needs of most campers. They open from the top just like an Esky, and can have a single- or dual-compartment.
Most come with sturdy handles and inner baskets that make them easier to lift, carry and pack. However, they are heavy. And that’s before you fill them with barbecue meat. Depending on your set-up, you might need to opt for a fridge slide, which will be an extra expense and add extra weight to your rig.
Single-compartment chest fridges
Single-compartment or single-zone portable camping fridges have one inner compartment for storing food and drinks. This compartment can be set to one temperature within the fridge’s range – meaning you can use it either as a fridge or as a freezer. If you are only going to need one or the other, these are a good money-saver option.
Dual-compartment chest fridges
A dual-compartment or dual-zone fridge will have two inner compartments with the capability to control the temperature of each separately. This is great if you are wanting to refrigerate and freeze items at the same time. Some models have a removable compartment divider giving you more versatility to operate the fridge either as a single or dual fridge-freezer.
Upright fridges
Upright camping fridges have a front door that swings open, allowing easy access. They are lighter and more spacious than chest fridges. Most will have an inbuilt freezer section and storage space on the door just like a bar fridge. However, they are not built to be out in the open like chest fridges and will need to be fixed securely to your 4WD, ute or caravan. Keep in mind, they also require a bit more ventilation space than a chest fridge.
Drawer fridges
Drawer fridges are another good option for an easy-to-access portable camping fridge. Without the awkward handles or lids of a chest fridge, these beauties fit flush in your vehicle and when you need to grab something, you just slide the drawer open. These fridges will also need to be secured, so keep in mind they are not as portable as chest fridges.
Questions to ask when buying a camping fridge
How will you be using your camping fridge?
Consider how you plan to use your camping fridge – as this will play a big part in deciding what type of fridge to get. If you are happy to secure your camping fridge to your car and leave it there permanently, an upright or drawer fridge are great options. However, if you want the flexibility to remove the fridge when not in use, or when you reach your campsite, a chest fridge is the more versatile option.
How will you power your camping fridge?
The camping fridges here are two-way compressor fridges. They can be powered by either 240V mains power or a 12V battery. This means you can plug them into the mains at a powered campsite, or run them off a car battery, portable battery or solar. Check the fridge you are buying has the correct connectors included or you might have to buy them separately.
Having a dual-battery system in your car is the easiest way to power your camping fridge. It will allow you to keep the fridge running even when your engine is off and you won’t have to stress about draining your main battery. Otherwise, having an extra portable battery or solar panels are also a great way to run your camping fridge.
If you don’t have any of these – look into purchasing a power source along with your camping fridge, as we don’t recommend the stress of trying to run a fridge off your car’s main battery. Companion’s camp fridges have their own integrated 42AH battery, or the myCOOLMAN camp fridge has an optional battery pack at an additional cost.
How much power does a camping fridge draw?
Once you start looking at different camp fridges, take note of how much power they draw – this will give you an idea of how efficient they are and how often you’ll need to charge your power source to keep the fridge running.
Power consumption for camping fridges is measured in amps per hour (Ah/h). A single-compartment fridge may use 1 to 3amp per hour, while a freezer may use 2 to 4. Usually, camping fridges will use a lot of power to get to the required temperature and then require a lower power consumption to maintain that temperature.
We haven’t included the amps per hour, as it differs depending on what temperature you are running the fridge at. However, no matter what camping fridge you’ve got, there are a few standard things you can do to conserve power and make them run more efficiently:
- A good quality compressor will limit the amount of power used
- Keep your fridge in a cool spot, out of the sun
- Check how much insulation is in the fridge and consider buying an insulated cover
- Well-stocked fridges will use less power consumption (that sounds like an excuse to buy more beer).
What is the best capacity for a camping fridge?
Capacity of camping fridges is measured in litres. Many manufacturers also like to tell you how many cans you can fit inside. Portable camping fridges come in a large range of sizes, from 12 litres – good for a picnic or overnighter – to 130 litres in an upright camping fridge.
To find the right capacity, ask yourself a few of these questions:
- How long will you be travelling for?
- Will you go off-grid, or are there plenty of places to restock?
- Are you taking food for a couple, or needing to feed a whole family?
- Do you like camp cooking to include fresh food, or do you only need to keep a few essentials refrigerated?
What size and weight should a camping fridge be?
Along with the fridge’s capacity, you need to consider its size and weight. You might like the idea of buying a larger capacity fridge-freezer, but can your vehicle (and your back) handle it? If you’ve already got a car-load of camping gear, you’ll know the importance of light and compact when it comes to choosing what to pack. However, light and compact is not really what you sign up for when buying a fridge!
If you plan to lift your fridge out of your vehicle, look for small-capacity fridges or have a mate on hand to help. For larger fridges, adding a fridge slide will make it more accessible, however, this will add extra weight to your vehicle. To not max out your GVM, pay close attention to the weight of the fridge when empty, then consider that you’ll be adding weight, both by filling it and with any extra accessories you buy.
What extra features are handy in a camping fridge?
Often with camping gear, it’s the extra features that make adventuring in the outdoors a whole lot easier. Fridges are no exception – here’s what extra features to look for when buying one.
Durability
Make sure your fridge has a tough outer casing and sturdy handles, it should be built for the outdoors, and the rough and tumble of venturing off road. This is not just to protect your tomatoes and lettuce, but the fridge’s main components and in particular the compressor.
Baskets
Removable baskets make filling the fridge easier, as you can load them up at home and drop them in the fridge in your car.
Removable lids
Removable lids on chest fridges make access easier, particularly when taking baskets in and out.
Digital displays
A good digital display will be simple and easy to use, allowing you to check and change temperatures, monitor usage and switch the fridge on and off.
Charging ports
Many fridges now come with charging points to charge your other devices.
Smartphone apps
Some camping fridges can be paired via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi to a smartphone app that will allow you to monitor battery usage and change temperatures.
LED lights
An LED light inside the fridge will help you find that last choccy biscuit after the sun sets without having to grab the camping lantern.
What is a good price for a camping fridge?
The best camping fridge is going to last you for many years to come, and that means making an investment. We recommend buying a camping fridge from a well-known brand. They will have a better warranty and will be easy to contact if you need replacements or parts.
To save money on a camping fridge, simply do a good assessment of just how much capacity you need and exactly what you’ll use it for. It’ll save you from overspending and you’ll be able to find your own best camping fridge.
How we review products
4X4 Australia has been reviewing four-wheel drive vehicles, aftermarket products and camping gear for more than 40 years. When looking for the best swags in Australia there are some things that are essential to ensure you sleep soundly under the stars.
When we compared each of the swags in the list with hundreds out there we looked at the size, weight, durability and price. We also searched for additional features that make these swags stand out from the rest.
We looked at hundreds of user reviews and drew on our own experience sleeping in swags to make sure our recommendations are for the best on the market.
Disclosure: When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. We also include products that we do not earn a commission from.
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