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

#1

Winner

9.7 score

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 -7℉~50℉

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.

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,180
Cooling Performance
Power Source
Energy Efficiency

Most important from
3699 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
9.4 score

Megiu 12 Volt Refrigerator Portable Car Freezer 13.5 Quart (12.8 Liter) Compressor Cooler 12V/24V DC 110~240 Volt AC for Truck Van RV Camper SUV Boat Travel Camping Road Trips Tailgating -18℃~+15℃

The Megiu 12 Volt Refrigerator Portable Car Freezer is a compact and efficient cooling solution ideal for car trips, camping, and tailgating. Its 13.5-quart capacity is suitable for storing food, drinks, and even frozen items like ice cream and meat, making it versatile for various needs. Cooling performance is impressive, reaching 0°C in just 15 minutes and going as low as -18°C, ensuring rapid chilling or freezing of your contents. It operates quietly at under 40 decibels, an advantage for users who value a subdued environment.

Rating
9.4
Capacity
Cooling Performance
Portability

Most important from
440 reviews

Capacity
This fridge is exactly what you need for a road trip—good size, maintains temperature well, and easy to transport.
Cooling Performance
It’s well-made, does the job perfectly, and can be used as either a refrigerator or a freezer.
Portability
Highly recommended for those looking for a portable refrigerator to keep things cold on a road trip.
#3
9.1 score

Wagan EL6214 Personal Thermoelectric Cooler/Warmer, 14 Liter Capacity, Portable Electric Car Cooler with 12/24V DC, 12V Small Fridge for Car, RV, and Camping Use, UL Listed

The Wagan EL6214 Personal Thermoelectric Cooler/Warmer offers a 14-liter capacity, making it suitable for holding up to 12 soda cans or standard-sized water bottles. This capacity is adequate for personal use on road trips or camping. Its cooling performance is quite efficient, with the ability to cool up to 32-36 degrees Fahrenheit below room temperature and heat up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit, providing versatility for keeping your food and drinks at the desired temperature.

Rating
9.1
Capacity
Cooling Performance
Power Source

Most important from
2052 reviews

Capacity
Very well made given the price point, with good capacity for drinks and sandwiches on trips.
Cooling Performance
This cooler/warmer works perfectly as long as you understand it relies on conduction rather than convection. Juice bags cool down quickly when laid flat on the metal plate.
Power Source
The cord is nice and long, with its own storage compartment on top.
Portability
Good size, not too wide, so it doesn't make passengers feel squished.

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

Igloo Thermoelectric Iceless 28-40 Qt Electric Plug-in 12V Coolers

Capacity: 26 Liters
Cooling Performance: 36°F below ambient temperature
Power Source: 12V DC outlet
Portability: Swing-up handle, side handles
Durability: Metallic-fiber, polyethylene insulation
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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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