Chill Out: Best Camping Fridge 2025 for Every Outdoor Escape
If you’ve ever wrestled with soggy cool boxes or warm drinks by day two, you already know how much a proper camping fridge can improve your trips. They’re a bit more of an investment, but totally worth it if you want reliable cold storage—no ice packs, no faff.
In this guide, you’ll find the best camping fridges available in 2025, tested and reviewed for real UK use. We’ll also break down what makes a fridge worth your money, like energy efficiency and portability, so you can choose the one that fits your setup, whether that’s a tent, campervan, or 12V socket in the boot.
What Is a Camping Fridge?
A camping fridge is a portable appliance that keeps your food and drink cold using a power source—usually 12V from your vehicle, mains hook-up, gas, or even solar. Unlike a traditional cool box that relies on ice packs, a camping fridge actively cools its contents, letting you set and maintain a specific temperature, often as low as -18°C.
Compressor fridges are the most widely used today. They work just like a home fridge, using a refrigerant loop and a small motor to cool quickly and efficiently. Most models can also freeze, making them versatile for longer trips.
You’ll also come across absorption fridges, which run silently and can switch between 12V, mains, or gas. They’re great for off-grid use with LPG, but they cool more slowly and lose efficiency in warm weather.
Yes, they can be a bit costly upfront, but storing perishable food below 5°C reduces the growth of harmful bacteria and meets food-safety guidance. A powered fridge also cuts food waste and lets you carry fresh ingredients for longer routes or remote wild-camp spots.
5 Best Camping Fridges Available in 2025
Below you’ll find a run-through of five best fridges for camping that stand out in 2025. Each one works on a compressor system, so every model here will chill reliably. What differs is capacity, power draw and extra features that might suit the way you travel. Let’s have a closer look:
1. EcoFlow GLACIER Classic Portable Fridge Freezer
The EcoFlow GLACIER Classic Portable Fridge Freezer offers three capacity options: 35L, 45L, and 55L. The 45L and 55L models feature a dual-zone design, allowing separate storage for fresh and frozen foods. The dual-zone design ensures comprehensive freshness preservation for ingredients, with a maximum temperature difference of 20°C and temperature fluctuations controlled within ±1°C. Its high-capacity 55L model stands out particularly, capable of holding up to 90 cans of 330ml soda, fully meeting storage needs in different scenarios. For off-grid use, the 35L model can maintain refrigeration at 4°C for up to 43 hours.
There’s also smart app control via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, so you can check and adjust settings without opening the lid—a handy touch when it’s tucked in the boot or camper. The lid opens from either side for flexible access, especially in tight spaces.
Key features
35L / 45L / 55L capacity with dual-zone option (45L & 55L), cools down to –20°C
298 Wh removable battery with up to 43 h runtime at 4°C
Power inputs: 12/24V DC, 100–240V AC, 110W solar
Dual-opening lid and app control via Wi-Fi/Bluetooth
Upgraded compressor with faster cooling and lower draw
EcoFlow GLACIER Classic Portable Fridge Freezer
2. Alpicool LGCF45 Portable Refrigerator
Compact, capable, and easy on the budget, the Alpicool LGCF45 gives you 45L of storage in a relatively small footprint. It uses an LG compressor to cool down to –20°C and runs on either 12/24V DC or mains power. It includes both ECO and MAX modes, an LCD display, plus a three-level battery protection system to help prevent a flat starter battery.
Key features
45L single-zone capacity, –20°C to +20°C range
LG compressor with ECO and MAX modes
Compatible with 12/24V DC and 100–240V AC
Internal LED light, removable basket
Bluetooth app control
3. ENGEL MT35 Fridge-Freezer
The ENGEL MT35 is built for serious use, using a unique swing motor compressor that’s designed to handle bumps and knocks without fuss. It draws impressively low power—averaging just 1–2 amp-hours per hour at 12V—and automatically switches between DC and AC input depending on what’s available. With a 32L capacity, it’s well-suited for solo campers or couples, and its tough steel casing is built to last for years.
Key features:
32L capacity, cools down to –18°C
Swing motor compressor: 1–2 A h average draw
Auto-switching between 12/24V DC and 110/240V AC
Durable steel case with carry handles
4. Dometic CFX3 Electric Cooler and Freezer
Dometic’s CFX3 range combines efficient cooling with smart features and rugged design. The latest VMSO3 compressor keeps contents as cold as –22°C while drawing less than 60W in typical use. The 25L version is lightweight and compact at just under 13kg, but larger sizes (up to 100L) are available if you need more space.
Every model includes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, app control, and a clear digital display. There’s also three-stage battery protection and thick PU insulation to improve efficiency.
Key features
Available in sizes from 25L to 100L
Temperature range: +20°C to –22°C
Low power draw with VMSO3 compressor
Wi-Fi/Bluetooth app control and digital display
5. ARB Classic Series 2 Fridge-Freezer 63QT
Built for long hauls and big groups, the ARB Classic Series 2 offers around 60L of space and reliable cooling performance, even in hot weather. Its variable-speed compressor keeps power use efficient, averaging just 0.85 Ah at 12V when holding 3°C.
It includes a Bluetooth transmitter so you can control and monitor it via your phone or an ARB LINX system. The UV-stable cabinet, heavy-duty handles, steel latches and a removable basket system make it well-suited to regular use in tougher conditions.
Key features:
60L single-zone capacity
Average draw: 0.85 Ah at 3°C in moderate heat
Runs on 12/24V DC or 100–240V AC
UV-stable casing with strong latches and LED display
How to Choose the Right Camping Fridge
Choosing the best camping fridge in the UK is about finding the right fit for how, where, and how often you camp. Here’s what to consider before you commit:
Size matters more than you think
For a solo trip or overnight stop, 20–30 L is usually enough. Couples on a weekend break often go for 35–40 L, while families or longer stays may need 50 L or more. Just make sure it fits your boot or camper layout—some models can be surprisingly bulky.
Think about how it cools and how you power it
Compressor fridges are now the most common for good reason. They cool quickly, hold low temperatures even in warm weather, and work efficiently on 12V while you drive.
Many models also support 24V systems, which can charge quicker and run even more efficiently. Some even let you connect solar panels directly—so you can top up your power at camp without needing an inverter.
Absorption fridges, on the other hand, are silent and can run on gas as well as electric, great for off-grid stops. But they need to stay level and lose performance in hot conditions.
Look at real-world energy use, not just wattage
A decent compressor fridge typically draws about 16–20 Ah per day at 4°C. That goes up in hotter conditions or with thinner insulation. Models with ECO or MAX modes can help you balance performance and power draw depending on your setup.
Built-in battery protection is essential
A three-stage low-voltage cut-off stops the fridge from draining your starter battery below safe levels—especially important if you don’t have a dual-battery system. Without it, you might be dealing with a flat battery just when it’s time to head home.
Insulation plays a big role in efficiency
Good insulation means the compressor doesn’t need to cycle as often, which saves energy. Look for models with thicker walls or vacuum panel insulation. You can also improve performance by shading the fridge and keeping air vents clear.
Consider build quality and portability
Sturdy casing, strong latches, and decent handles make a big difference, especially if you’re moving the fridge in and out of your vehicle often. A lightweight design helps too, but don’t sacrifice durability if you’re going off the beaten track.
Smart features can be handy
Bluetooth or Wi-Fi app control lets you check and change the temperature without opening the lid—useful if the fridge is tucked away.
Conclusion
Finding the best camping fridge can really be the difference between warm beer and that first ice-cold drink after setting up camp. Think about where you’ll be camping, how long you’ll stay, and what you’ll realistically power it with.
For quick weekends on hook-up, you might not need much. But if you’re heading totally off-grid or touring in a van, investing in something efficient and durable will pay off fast. The options above are all solid choices trusted by UK campers, so whichever you go for, you’ll be one step closer to stress-free outdoor meals and chilled essentials that last the whole journey.
FAQs
What type of fridge is best for camping?
If you camp regularly or stay in hotspots like the Highlands, a compressor fridge like the EcoFlow GLACIER Classic Portable Fridge Freezer is often the top pick. It works like your household fridge—quick chilling, efficient, and able to reach sub-zero temps even in hot weather.
They’re robust and run on 12V (car) or 230V (mains), and many models can be solar powered too. Though more expensive and a bit noisier, the convenience of a reliable and consistent cold temperature tends to outweigh the cons, especially on multi-day trips.
Is a camp fridge worth it?
Yes—especially if you prefer fresh food, chilled drinks, or cooking on site. Compared to ice boxes, electric or compressor fridges offer better food safety (keeping meat under 5°C) and free up valuable space.
While pricier upfront, they reduce waste, make food prep easier and avoid soggy ice mess. If you’re a frequent camper or family traveller, the investment pays off in convenience, hygiene, and enjoyment—no more defrosted desserts!
What type of fridge is best for a camper?
For campervans or caravans, compressor fridges are ideal: they’re compact, efficient, versatile, and mimic home refrigeration. Models like the EcoFlow GLACIER offer adjustable temperature controls, good insulation, and can freeze too.
They run on both 12V/24V vehicle battery and mains, and some handle solar input—perfect for longer stays. Silent, rugged and low maintenance, they’re reliable across the UK’s varied weather and terrain, making them a smart choice for camper kitchens.
What can I use as a fridge for camping?
For camping, you can use a passive coolbox with ice packs, a thermoelectric cooler, a 3-way absorption fridge, or a compressor fridge. Passive coolboxes are affordable and simple but only keep food cold for a couple of days. Thermoelectric coolers plug into your car’s 12V outlet and chill to around 20°C below ambient, though they’re less effective in hot weather.
Absorption fridges can run on gas, 12V, or mains power, offering silent operation and flexibility. For the best performance, compressor fridges are ideal—they cool quickly, maintain steady temperatures, and are great for longer or frequent trips.