Okay, so we know all about cool accessories for your car: from cameras to power banks, LED lighting to passenger screen holders…people love fitting out their vehicles to make journeys about something more than just getting from point A to point B.
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But now imagine this: setting off on a long road trip with the family (or your best friends) and having all of your food and drinks staying perfectly chilled without a cooler. No ice, no mess, no cooler. Whaaaa? Yep. Enter the portable car refrigerator, folks! A gadget that’s truly stepped up its game in revolutionizing travel convenience.
You’ve got questions, right? We’ve got answers…
Why Should I Get a Portable Car Refrigerator?
Well, the most obvious reason is to avoid the hassle, mess and inconvenience of ice. Unlike conventional coolers that depend on bags of ice to keep your food cool, a portable fridge – also called electric coolers – is a modern appliance that offers reliable temperature control without the melting water issue. This means that your drinks stay cold and your food fresh, no matter how long the journey is.
How Do I Power an Electric Cooler?
Conveniently, portable fridges operate quite efficiently on the 12V power already present in your vehicle, and are able to provide a pretty solid cooling system that is similar to household fridges. There are several models that also offer the option of running on a battery pack. If you go for the plug-in type of car fridge, you will want to check that the cable is long enough to reach your 12v outlet so that your front seat passenger isn’t stuck with a fridge on their lap the whole drive!
Are Portable Fridges Just For Cars?
Nope! Most electric coolers come with compatibility for indoor use as well. So this means that they can be seen as an investment for office spaces, garages, or simply being able to plug them into a hotel room while stopping for a rest on your road trip.
How Do I Choose the Electric Cooler That’s Right for Me?
Okay, this isn’t a one-size-fits-all situation. You’ll have to take into account a few different factors when deciding which model best suits. your needs. Here are some elements to consider when shopping for the right car refrigerator:
- Budget. There is a wide range out there. Choose the style that fits your life as well as your wallet. (Here’s one example available on Amazon)
- Capacity. For solo travelers, the compact models might be the right fit, as they hold about 15-20 liters. Groups of friends or families could be better suited to some mid-range options which cool 30-45 liters worth. For your big group expeditions, you may want to look into a 50-65 liter unit – keeping in mind that these appliances will require more space and power.
- Flexibility. It’s a good idea to search for models with dual-zone compartments – meaning that they can both cool and freeze.
- Control. Portable fridges with a digital display can help you maintain accurate temperature control that’s right for whatever you’ve got cooling inside.
- Efficiency. Of course we want products that are energy efficient. Look for models that are rated high for efficiency, low in power draining, and in the case of battery operation, that they can last for long stretches of time.
What Are Some Key Features to Consider?
- Versatility. Being able to control the range of temperature is super important. Top electric cooler models will allow for adjustments from -4°F to 68°F, which ensures both freezing and refrigeration needs.
- Durability. This one is a non-negotiable. Even if you’re not off-loading, there’s a good chance your portable fridge will have to withstand bumps and jostles. High-quality electric coolers will often come with reinforced corners and heavy-duty construction to help survive travel through rough terrain as well as just being hauled around. Another nice thing to look for is units that feature removable baskets, drainage plugs, and interior lighting, Because: convenience.
- So, while your ultimate choice depends on your specific travel habits and needs, if you stick to the main tenets listed above, this cool car accessory (pun intended) is sure to enhance your driving experience!
