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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 by1,187
Cooling Performance
Power Source
Energy Efficiency

Most important from
3866 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 by1,187
Cooling Performance
Power Source
Energy Efficiency

Most important from
3866 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

BODEGACOOLER 12 Volt Car Refrigerator,64 Quart Portable Fridge Cooler APP Control,-4℉-68℉ 60L Dual Zone Car Freezer Cooler, 12/24V DC and 100-240V AC for Camping,Travel,RV,Boat,Van,Road Trip

Rating
9.6
Cooling Performance
Power Source
Energy Efficiency

Most important from
3073 reviews

Cooling Performance
The dual-zone design allows precise temperature control for both fridge and freezer compartments, maintaining stable temps even when loaded with warm items.
Power Source
Supports flexible power options including 12V DC from vehicles and 120V AC for home use, offering great versatility for different settings.
Energy Efficiency
Energy consumption is low compared to home refrigerators, with intelligent power settings that protect vehicle batteries.
Portability
Portability features like built-in handles and off-road wheels make moving this large cooler simpler than expected.
Durability
The unit runs quietly and steadily, performing well on long trips and rough roads, making it ideal for camping and road travel.

The BODEGACOOLER 12 Volt Car Refrigerator stands out with a spacious 64-quart (60-liter) dual-zone design, allowing you to cool two types of items at different temperatures—great for separating drinks from frozen foods. Its cooling range of -4℉ to 68℉ means it can keep things really cold, including frozen items, which is more versatile than many basic car coolers. It runs off 12 or 24 volts DC (car power) and also supports 100-240 volts AC for home use, offering flexibility whether you’re on the road or at home.

Energy efficiency is supported by three power settings (high, medium, low) to protect your car battery and reduce power use, plus it has an automatic defrost system to ease maintenance. The fridge's strong compressor cools quickly and the unit remains stable and quiet even on rough or inclined roads, thanks to anti-shaking features and a non-slip base.

Portability is a plus here, with built-in stretchable handles and off-road wheels making it easier to move than many similar-sized car fridges. It also includes practical extras like an LED interior light, USB charging port, and app control for adjusting temperatures remotely. Weighing about 44.5 pounds, it might be heavy for some users to carry frequently. This cooler is best suited for campers, road-trippers, or RV owners who need a reliable, large-capacity fridge/freezer combo with flexible power options and modern convenience features. For serious cooling and versatility during travel, this BODEGACOOLER performs well.

Rating
9.6
Cooling Performance
Power Source
Energy Efficiency

Most important from
3073 reviews

Cooling Performance
The dual-zone design allows precise temperature control for both fridge and freezer compartments, maintaining stable temps even when loaded with warm items.
Power Source
Supports flexible power options including 12V DC from vehicles and 120V AC for home use, offering great versatility for different settings.
Energy Efficiency
Energy consumption is low compared to home refrigerators, with intelligent power settings that protect vehicle batteries.
Portability
Portability features like built-in handles and off-road wheels make moving this large cooler simpler than expected.
Durability
The unit runs quietly and steadily, performing well on long trips and rough roads, making it ideal for camping and road travel.
#3

Aeitto 12 Volt Car Refrigerator 25Quart Car Fridge Freezer Electric Cooler Portable Cooler 12V Fridge RV Refrigerator -4℉-68℉ Temp Control 12/24V DC & 100-240V AC for Travel, Camping, RV, Road

Rating
9.4
Capacity
Cooling Performance
Power Source

Most important from
99 reviews

Capacity
Spacious enough to hold six 2-liter bottles plus additional room for champagne bottles stored sideways.
Cooling Performance
The cooler’s display lets you monitor vehicle battery voltage and set precise temperatures down to -4°F, perfect for frozen foods and ice cream.
Power Source
The inclusion of a 120V wall adapter allows pre-cooling at home or use as a backup fridge/freezer, adding great versatility.
Energy Efficiency
Auto shut-off protects your vehicle’s battery, ensuring you can always start your engine without worry.
Portability
Wheels and a pull-out handle make this surprisingly portable despite its larger size and weight when fully loaded.

The Aeitto 12 Volt Car Refrigerator is a solid choice for those needing a portable cooler on the go, especially for travel, camping, or RV use. With a 25-quart capacity, it offers enough space to keep drinks and food chilled without being too bulky. Its compressor cooling technology is impressive, quickly lowering temperatures to as low as -5℉, which is great for preserving perishables and even acting as a freezer. The energy-saving ECO mode helps keep power consumption low, making it efficient for longer trips without draining your vehicle battery, and the built-in 3-level battery protection is a smart feature to avoid unwanted battery drain.

Portability is decent; although it weighs about 27 pounds, its compact size and anti-shaking design make it stable and suitable for off-road driving. Noise levels are low, so it won’t disturb your rest while driving or camping. However, it uses manual defrost, which means you’ll need to periodically remove ice buildup yourself, and it only has one door, limiting quick access if you pack a lot of items. Also, while it supports both 12/24V DC and 100-240V AC power, it’s designed mainly for vehicle use, so consider space and power source availability.

This cooler provides a strong balance of efficient cooling, portability, and protective features, making it a practical pick for frequent travelers or outdoor enthusiasts who want a reliable way to keep food and drinks cold on the road.

Rating
9.4
Capacity
Cooling Performance
Power Source

Most important from
99 reviews

Capacity
Spacious enough to hold six 2-liter bottles plus additional room for champagne bottles stored sideways.
Cooling Performance
The cooler’s display lets you monitor vehicle battery voltage and set precise temperatures down to -4°F, perfect for frozen foods and ice cream.
Power Source
The inclusion of a 120V wall adapter allows pre-cooling at home or use as a backup fridge/freezer, adding great versatility.
Energy Efficiency
Auto shut-off protects your vehicle’s battery, ensuring you can always start your engine without worry.
Portability
Wheels and a pull-out handle make this surprisingly portable despite its larger size and weight when fully loaded.

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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