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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

EUHOMY 12 Volt Refrigerator, 26QT(25L) Compressor Electric Cooler APP Control, Car Fridge -4℉~68℉, Portable Refrigerator 12/24V DC 110-240V AC, Portable Freezer for Camping, Travel, Boat

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,354
Capacity
Cooling Performance
Power Source

Most important from
1828 reviews

Capacity
Lightweight enough for portability while still providing a spacious 25-liter capacity suitable for drinks, snacks, and frozen items.
Cooling Performance
Cools down quickly, reaching near freezing within a few hours even when fully loaded.
Power Source
Versatile power options allow it to run on vehicle 12V sockets or household AC outlets, adding to its convenience.
Energy Efficiency
Power consumption is efficient when using the DC cord, drawing less than 50 watts for extended runtime.
Portability
Built with solid quality and a size that fits well for weekend trips or overlanding without occupying too much space.
Durability
The magnetic sealing lid and anti-shock design maintain cooling efficiency even on bumpy roads.

The EUHOMY 12 Volt Refrigerator is a versatile and portable cooler designed mainly for car use but also works with home power sources. It has a solid 25-liter capacity, which is good for camping, road trips, or boating, providing enough space for drinks and snacks. Thanks to its powerful compressor, it cools quickly and can freeze items down to -4°F, adjusting between fridge and freezer modes.

This efficient cooling uses around 45 watts, which is reasonable for a device of this size. The cooler runs quietly at 42 decibels, so it won’t disturb your drive or camp setting. Its magnetic sealing lid helps keep the cold air in and improves energy efficiency, while the anti-shock design means it keeps working smoothly even on bumpy roads. You can control it remotely via an app using Bluetooth, adding convenience during travel. The device supports multiple power options—both 12/24V DC for vehicles and 110/240V AC for home use, making it flexible for different environments. It also has built-in battery protection settings to avoid draining your car’s battery.

The unit weighs about 21 pounds, which may be somewhat heavy for users looking for ultra-lightweight options. While energy consumption is reasonable, it is not the most energy-efficient model available for long-term use without frequent recharging. This cooler is well suited for those seeking a reliable, quiet, and smart-controlled fridge/freezer for travel and outdoor activities, though users wanting ultra-lightweight or extremely energy-efficient options might consider comparing other models.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,354
Capacity
Cooling Performance
Power Source

Most important from
1828 reviews

Capacity
Lightweight enough for portability while still providing a spacious 25-liter capacity suitable for drinks, snacks, and frozen items.
Cooling Performance
Cools down quickly, reaching near freezing within a few hours even when fully loaded.
Power Source
Versatile power options allow it to run on vehicle 12V sockets or household AC outlets, adding to its convenience.
Energy Efficiency
Power consumption is efficient when using the DC cord, drawing less than 50 watts for extended runtime.
Portability
Built with solid quality and a size that fits well for weekend trips or overlanding without occupying too much space.
Durability
The magnetic sealing lid and anti-shock design maintain cooling efficiency even on bumpy roads.
#2

COSTWAY Car Refrigerator, 44-Quart Electric 12V/24V Car Cooler with 3 Levels, LCD Display, Shockproof Design, Travel RV Fridge for Camping, Truck Party

Rating
8.2
Cooling Performance
Power Source
Energy Efficiency

Most important from
77 reviews

Cooling Performance
Quick compressor cooling is a major plus, though contents take longer to chill fully due to lack of internal air circulation—ideal for maintaining cold drinks but not for rapid chilling of warm items.
Power Source
It operates efficiently off-grid, running smoothly on solar power setups and battery stations without risking vehicle battery drain thanks to built-in protections.
Energy Efficiency
Energy consumption is manageable, with the compressor cycling briefly at intervals and drawing just over 4 amps, making it suitable for limited power sources when paired with thermal insulation.
Durability
The fridge excels in extreme temperatures, handling everything from sub-freezing cold to hot desert heat without issues, proving its durability and reliability for varied climates.

The COSTWAY Car Refrigerator is a solid choice if you need a portable cooler for road trips, camping, or even truck use. It offers a large capacity of about 44 quarts, enough to store plenty of drinks and snacks for several people. Thanks to compressor cooling technology, it chills items quickly—dropping the temperature from 90°F to 32°F in about 30 minutes. This makes it more efficient than some simple icebox-style coolers. It also has an ECO mode that saves energy while maintaining good cooling performance.

Power-wise, it runs on 12V or 24V DC, so it plugs directly into your car or RV power outlet. The cooler has built-in battery protection with three levels to prevent draining your vehicle’s battery, which is a useful safety feature. Noise is kept low, under 45 decibels, so it won’t be disruptive inside your car or camper. Durability is a highlight here—the unit is made from sturdy ABS plastic with a shockproof design, meaning it can handle bumps and rough roads without damage. It weighs 33 pounds and features a handle for easier carrying, although at this weight it’s not the lightest option if you plan frequent moves.

The LCD display and digital controls make setting and monitoring the temperature straightforward, even for those who aren’t tech-savvy. The fridge also has automatic defrost and two wire shelves inside for better organization. One downside is its size; while compact enough to fit in most vehicles, it’s not tiny, so you’ll need to make some space for it. Also, the price may be higher than basic cooler boxes, reflecting its compressor tech and durability. If you prioritize fast cooling, safety features, and durability for car or outdoor trips, this model is worth considering.

Rating
8.2
Cooling Performance
Power Source
Energy Efficiency

Most important from
77 reviews

Cooling Performance
Quick compressor cooling is a major plus, though contents take longer to chill fully due to lack of internal air circulation—ideal for maintaining cold drinks but not for rapid chilling of warm items.
Power Source
It operates efficiently off-grid, running smoothly on solar power setups and battery stations without risking vehicle battery drain thanks to built-in protections.
Energy Efficiency
Energy consumption is manageable, with the compressor cycling briefly at intervals and drawing just over 4 amps, making it suitable for limited power sources when paired with thermal insulation.
Durability
The fridge excels in extreme temperatures, handling everything from sub-freezing cold to hot desert heat without issues, proving its durability and reliability for varied climates.
#3

Cooluli Skincare Mini Fridge for Bedroom - Car, Office Desk & Dorm Room - Portable 4L/6 Can Electric Plug In Cooler & Warmer for Food, Drinks, Beauty & Makeup, 12v AC/DC & Exclusive USB, Cow Print

Rating
7.9
Capacity
Cooling Performance
Portability

Most important from
12809 reviews

Capacity
Compact size fits perfectly in small spaces, though storage is limited to about 3 to 4 bottles or six cans.
Cooling Performance
Maintains a consistent, safe refrigeration temperature around 36°F, ideal for sensitive items like breastmilk and formula.
Portability
Compact size fits perfectly in small spaces, though storage is limited to about 3 to 4 bottles or six cans.
Durability
Operates quietly, comparable to the sound of a ceiling fan, making it unobtrusive during nighttime use.

The Cooluli Skincare Mini Fridge is a compact and lightweight plug-in cooler with a 4-liter capacity, fitting about six cans or small beauty and food items. Its size and portability make it ideal for those who want a personal cooler for a car, office desk, or dorm room. The unit uses thermoelectric cooling, which is energy-efficient and quiet but may not get as cold as compressor fridges, especially in very hot environments. It can also warm items, adding extra versatility. Power options include AC, DC (car adapter), and USB, giving flexibility to use it in various places on the go.

The manual defrost system means occasional maintenance is needed to keep it working well. Its durability is decent for light, everyday use, but it’s mainly designed for small-scale cooling rather than heavy-duty or large storage needs. The stylish cow print design is a fun touch for personal spaces. While the 4-liter capacity limits how much you can store, this mini fridge stands out for its portability and multi-function use, making it great for skincare products, medications, snacks, and drinks on the move.

Rating
7.9
Capacity
Cooling Performance
Portability

Most important from
12809 reviews

Capacity
Compact size fits perfectly in small spaces, though storage is limited to about 3 to 4 bottles or six cans.
Cooling Performance
Maintains a consistent, safe refrigeration temperature around 36°F, ideal for sensitive items like breastmilk and formula.
Portability
Compact size fits perfectly in small spaces, though storage is limited to about 3 to 4 bottles or six cans.
Durability
Operates quietly, comparable to the sound of a ceiling fan, making it unobtrusive during nighttime use.

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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