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10 Best Plug In Coolers For Cars 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

BougeRV Pink 23Quart Portable Refrigerator, 12 Volt Fridge 22L, Portable Freezer Compressor Cooler 12/24V DC 110~240 Volt AC for Truck Van RV Camper -8℉~50℉

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,120
Cooling Performance
Power Source
Energy Efficiency

Most important from
4256 reviews

Cooling Performance
The BougeRV 12V refrigerator cools down to 32°F in less than 20 minutes and reacts quickly to temperature adjustments.
Power Source
Setting up the fridge with 12V car outlets is seamless, though proper wiring is crucial to avoid voltage drops.
Energy Efficiency
The low power consumption in ECO mode is impressive, drawing only 36 watts, making it ideal for use with portable power stations and solar panels.
Portability
Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to transport and place in small spaces like campers or car backseats.
Durability
Users appreciate the durable build and shock-proof design, which withstands bumpy roads without issues.

The BougeRV Pink 23Quart Portable Refrigerator is a solid choice for those seeking a compact cooling solution for cars, RVs, and boats. With a capacity of 23 quarts, it offers ample space for food and drinks, making it ideal for road trips or camping. One of its major strengths is the fast cooling capability, reaching 32°F in just 15 minutes, which is impressive for a portable unit. The use of compressor refrigeration technology means there's no need for ice, keeping food fresh and saving space.

Energy efficiency is another highlight, as it operates on low power consumption, with less than 36W in ECO mode and a maximum of 45W. This makes it easy to run without straining your vehicle's battery. The built-in 3-level battery protection also helps prevent complete battery drain, which is a great feature for long trips or off-grid camping.

Portability is well-considered, weighing just 22.27 lbs and featuring a compact design, making it easy to transport. The low noise level at 45dB ensures it won't disturb your sleep during nighttime use. The shock-proof design adds durability, allowing it to withstand bumpy roads without issues. However, the manual defrost system might not be as convenient as automatic options, requiring some maintenance from the user. Additionally, while it’s designed for various power sources, avoiding direct sunlight is crucial to heed, as exposure can deform the refrigerator door. The unique pink color may appeal to some, but it might not be everyone's preference. Also, it lacks an Energy Star rating, which could indicate slightly lower energy efficiency than other models in its class. Still, for users needing a reliable, portable cooling option that prioritizes performance and efficiency, the BougeRV Pink 23Quart Portable Refrigerator is a commendable pick.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,120
Cooling Performance
Power Source
Energy Efficiency

Most important from
4256 reviews

Cooling Performance
The BougeRV 12V refrigerator cools down to 32°F in less than 20 minutes and reacts quickly to temperature adjustments.
Power Source
Setting up the fridge with 12V car outlets is seamless, though proper wiring is crucial to avoid voltage drops.
Energy Efficiency
The low power consumption in ECO mode is impressive, drawing only 36 watts, making it ideal for use with portable power stations and solar panels.
Portability
Its compact size and lightweight design make it easy to transport and place in small spaces like campers or car backseats.
Durability
Users appreciate the durable build and shock-proof design, which withstands bumpy roads without issues.
#2

12 Volt Refrigerator, 53QT(50L) Compressor Electric Cooler with Wheels, Car Fridge with APP Control, Portable Freezer -13℉~68℉, 12/24V DC 110-240V AC Car Cooler for Camping, Travel, Road Trips

Rating
9.6
Capacity
Cooling Performance
Power Source

Most important from
35 reviews

Capacity
Spacious 50-liter capacity comfortably fits all essentials for family trips or day outings.
Cooling Performance
Cools down quickly to 32 degrees in under 30 minutes and maintains a stable temperature overnight.
Power Source
Works seamlessly both plugged into home AC power and 12V in vehicles, offering flexible use.
Portability
Durable build with quality materials and practical features like wheels and a folding handle make it easy to move around.
Durability
Durable build with quality materials and practical features like wheels and a folding handle make it easy to move around.

This Shinylamp 12 Volt Refrigerator is a strong choice for anyone needing a portable cooler with a large 50-liter capacity, making it suitable for family trips or long road journeys. It cools quickly, reaching 32°F in about 15 minutes without ice, and offers dual-zone compartments to keep frozen and fresh items separately, which adds versatility. The frost-free compressor and inverter technology help maintain stable temperatures while being energy efficient—with an eco-mode consuming less than 0.4 kWh per day—so it won’t heavily drain your vehicle’s battery.

Portability is well addressed through durable build materials, thick insulation for longer cold retention, and practical features like upgraded wheels and a folding handle that make moving it easy even on rough terrain. The fridge supports multiple power sources (12/24V DC and 100-240V AC), increasing its flexibility for use in cars, RVs, boats, or at home. A standout feature is the Bluetooth app control, allowing remote temperature monitoring and mode switching, which is handy during travel.

On the downside, it weighs 31 pounds, which is a bit heavy compared to smaller coolers, and the single-door design might limit quick access or organization for some users. Also, while the app control is useful, it requires a compatible smartphone and some tech comfort. This cooler delivers solid cooling performance, spacious capacity, energy efficiency, and portability, making it a reliable companion for camping, road trips, or truckers who need dependable, on-the-go refrigeration.

Rating
9.6
Capacity
Cooling Performance
Power Source

Most important from
35 reviews

Capacity
Spacious 50-liter capacity comfortably fits all essentials for family trips or day outings.
Cooling Performance
Cools down quickly to 32 degrees in under 30 minutes and maintains a stable temperature overnight.
Power Source
Works seamlessly both plugged into home AC power and 12V in vehicles, offering flexible use.
Portability
Durable build with quality materials and practical features like wheels and a folding handle make it easy to move around.
Durability
Durable build with quality materials and practical features like wheels and a folding handle make it easy to move around.
#3

Anker SOLIX EverFrost 2 58L Cooler with 1 Removable Battery, 61 qt Car Refrigerator, Electric Cooler with Two 288Wh LiFePO4 Batteries, Powered by AC/DC or Solar, for Camping, Travel, Fishing

Rating
9.4
Capacity
Cooling Performance
Power Source

Most important from
28 reviews

Capacity
While the cooler is quite heavy and large, it is ideal for those with enough vehicle space who prioritize capacity and reliable cooling over portability.
Cooling Performance
The cooler rapidly drops temperatures to freezing within about 15 minutes and maintains a consistent chill, ensuring your food and drinks stay fresh over long trips.
Power Source
With dual lithium batteries, it can keep contents cold for multiple days—one setup maintained 36°F for nearly three days on battery alone.
Energy Efficiency
The cooler's energy consumption is impressively efficient, running under 50 watts when the compressor is active, which helps prolong battery life.
Durability
The sturdy polyurethane foam construction contributes to durability, making it suitable for rugged outdoor conditions.

The Anker SOLIX EverFrost 2 is a large 58-liter electric cooler designed for car trips, camping, and outdoor adventures. It stands out with its strong cooling ability, quickly dropping temperatures from room temperature to freezing in about 15 minutes and maintaining chill between -4°F and 68°F. Its dual 288Wh lithium batteries allow it to keep your food and drinks cold for over four days without needing a recharge, which is impressive for long trips. You can recharge the batteries in multiple ways—including solar panels, car sockets, and regular outlets—making it flexible for different situations.

Another handy feature is that the cooler doubles as a power bank, letting you charge devices via USB ports, which adds convenience when you're off-grid. However, portability might be a challenge due to its weight of about 69 pounds and fairly large dimensions, so it’s better suited for those with enough space and not needing to carry it often by hand. The cooler's sturdy polyurethane foam build suggests good durability, and its energy consumption is reasonably efficient for its size and performance.

If you prioritize a reliable, high-capacity cooler with versatile power options and strong cooling performance for extended outdoor use, the Anker SOLIX EverFrost 2 is a solid choice. For those needing something lightweight and easier to carry frequently, smaller models might be more suitable.

Rating
9.4
Capacity
Cooling Performance
Power Source

Most important from
28 reviews

Capacity
While the cooler is quite heavy and large, it is ideal for those with enough vehicle space who prioritize capacity and reliable cooling over portability.
Cooling Performance
The cooler rapidly drops temperatures to freezing within about 15 minutes and maintains a consistent chill, ensuring your food and drinks stay fresh over long trips.
Power Source
With dual lithium batteries, it can keep contents cold for multiple days—one setup maintained 36°F for nearly three days on battery alone.
Energy Efficiency
The cooler's energy consumption is impressively efficient, running under 50 watts when the compressor is active, which helps prolong battery life.
Durability
The sturdy polyurethane foam construction contributes to durability, making it suitable for rugged outdoor conditions.

Buying Guide for the Best Plug In Coolers For Cars

Choosing the right plug-in cooler for your car can make a big difference in your travel experience, especially on long trips or during hot weather. A plug-in cooler can keep your food and drinks at the perfect temperature, making your journey more comfortable and enjoyable. To find the best fit for you, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your needs. Here are the main specs to consider when selecting a plug-in cooler for your car.
CapacityCapacity refers to the amount of space inside the cooler, usually measured in liters or quarts. This spec is important because it determines how much food and drink you can store. If you often travel with family or friends, a larger capacity cooler (30-50 liters) might be necessary. For solo travelers or short trips, a smaller capacity (10-20 liters) could be sufficient. Consider your typical usage and the number of people you need to accommodate when choosing the right capacity.
Cooling PerformanceCooling performance indicates how well the cooler can maintain a low temperature. This is usually measured in terms of how many degrees below the ambient temperature the cooler can achieve. High-performance coolers can cool down to 40-50°F below ambient temperature, which is ideal for keeping perishable items fresh. Moderate performance coolers might cool to 20-30°F below ambient temperature, suitable for drinks and snacks. If you need to store sensitive items like dairy or meat, opt for a cooler with higher cooling performance.
Power SourceThe power source for plug-in coolers is typically a 12V DC car outlet, but some models also offer an AC adapter for home use. This spec is important because it determines where and how you can use the cooler. If you plan to use the cooler primarily in your car, a 12V DC model will suffice. However, if you want the flexibility to use it at home or in other settings, look for a model that includes an AC adapter. Consider your usage scenarios to decide which power source options are best for you.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency refers to how much power the cooler consumes while operating. This is important because it affects your car's battery life and overall energy consumption. More energy-efficient models will draw less power, which is beneficial for long trips or when the car is not running. Look for coolers with energy-saving features like eco modes or automatic shut-off to preserve battery life. If you frequently take long trips or use the cooler for extended periods, prioritize energy efficiency.
PortabilityPortability encompasses the cooler's size, weight, and ease of transport. This spec is crucial if you need to move the cooler in and out of your car frequently. Lightweight and compact models are easier to handle and store, making them ideal for smaller vehicles or limited space. Larger, heavier models might offer more capacity but can be cumbersome to move. Consider how often you'll need to transport the cooler and the available space in your car when evaluating portability.
DurabilityDurability refers to the build quality and materials used in the cooler. This is important because a durable cooler will withstand the rigors of travel and last longer. Look for models made from high-quality plastics or metals, with sturdy handles and hinges. If you plan to use the cooler in rugged conditions or for outdoor activities, prioritize durability to ensure it can handle bumps and rough handling. Assess your typical usage environment to determine the level of durability you need.

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