One of my favourite things about camping is being able to relax, unwind, spend quality time with the family or mates and have a few nicely chilled beers. While I know I’m going to have to sacrifice some of my home comforts for the pleasure of sleeping out in nature; it’s super important to me to have the best camping fridge freezer to keep my drinks and food properly chilled or frozen.
In my search for an electric or gas camping fridge to take on my last camping trip, I quicklyF realised that there’s a lot to take into consideration when comparing the best fridges for camping. And so, I’ve put together this handy guide to the best camping fridges Australia has to help you work out the best option for you.
Click here to see the best portable fridge on eBay for camping now!
If you’re wondering what the best camping fridge freezer Australia has is, the truth is there is a lot to consider when deciding which is the best camping fridge Australia has. You’ll need to think first of all about how much space you need your portable camping fridge freezer to have – which will depend on whether you’ll just be taking a short day or weekend trips, or whether you’ll be spending weeks away with your whole family.
As you’ll read in any camping fridge freezer reviews, you’ll also need to consider what temperatures you’ll be travelling in and how much chill-power you’ll need your camping freezer fridge to have. Then there’s the matter of power and how you’ll be able to run your camping fridge: From an electric camping fridge to a gas powered camping fridge which runs on cylinders. There’s also the matter of budget – the very best camping fridge freezers do not come cheap.
This best camping fridge 2023 Australia guide includes several of my favourite camping fridges and includes all the essential info you need to know when looking for the best camp fridge for your next trip. Read on for my best camping fridge reviews!
Contents
Compare The 11 Best Camping Fridge Australia 2023
Below is a comparison chart of all the fridge freezer camping options featured in this guide. Simply click on whatever criteria is most important to you to sort the table. Clicking on any of the product names in the camping fridge comparison table below will take you to Amazon or eBay so you can see the latest price and buy if you wish.
For further information, keep reading this best camping fridge review.
| Fridge | Capacity | Power Source | Weight | Dimensions (LxWxH) | Price | Features | Rating |
| Dometic Waeco CFX Series | 8 sizes from 28L to 75L | 12V / 240V | 31kg (75L size) | 88.7 x 49.5 x 47.2 cm | Check | Dimmable LED display, battery monitor, LED internal light | 4.5 |
| Brass Monkey Portable Fridge Freezer 15L | 15L | 12V / 24V | 8.6kg | 60 x 32 x 26 cm | Check | Lightweight, portable, digital display | 4.5 |
| OzTrail Dual Zone on eBay | 80L | 12V / 240V | 30kg | 88 x 57 x 45.5 cm | Check on eBay | LCD control panel, automatic internal light, soft close hinges | 4.5 |
| EvaKool Travelmate TMX Series | 38, 45, 50, 65 or 80L | 12V / 240V | 20kg (50L size) | 71 x 45.5 x 49.8 cm | Check | Two-way lid, Bluetooth/WiFi connectivity, cable compartment | 4.0 |
| Adventure Kings Fridge | 45, 60, 70 or 90L | 12V / 240V | 33kg (90L size) | 92 x 52 x 46.5 cm | Check | Digital display & control, internal light, internal drain plug | 4.5 |
| EvaKool Fibreglass Series | 9 sizes from 40 to 150L | 12V / 240V | 25kg (60L size) | 86 x 44.5 x 43 cm | Check | Drainage bung, digital control, insulated base & lid | 4.5 |
| Ivation Portable Thermoelectric Fridge 45L | 45L | 12V / 120V | 8.5kg | 56 x 41 x 39 cm | Check | Internal dividers, large volume, lightweight | 4.5 |
| Engel MTV Series | 32, 39, 40, 57, 60, 75, or 80L | 12V / 240V | 24kg (40L size) | 36 x 63.1 x 50.8 cm | Check | Digital thermostat control, battery monitor, LED internal light | 4.0 |
| Engel MR40F | 38L | 12V / 240V | 22kg | 77.6 x 36.6 x 48.3 cm | Check | Reversible lid, cost effective, energy efficient | 4.0 |
| Kolner Fridge Freezer 40L | 40L | 12V / 24V / 240V | 12.5kg | 63 x 36 x 47 cm | Check | Quality insulation, durable trolley system, LCD display | 4.0 |
Top 10 Best Fridges for Camping Australia 2023
Here is a handy reference list of all the best fridge for camping options reviewed below!
- Dometic Waeco CFX Series comes in 8 sizes from 28L to 75L
- Brass Monkey Portable Fridge Freezer comes in a 15L capacity
- OzTrail Dual Zone comes in a 80L capacity
- EvaKool Travelmate TMX Series comes in 5 sizes from 38L to 80L
- Adventure Kings Fridge comes in either a 45L, 60L, 70L or 90L capacity
- EvaKool RF Fibreglass Series comes in 9 sizes from 40L to 150L
- Ivation Portable Thermoelectric Fridge comes in a 45L capacity
- Engel MTV Series comes in 7 sizes from 32L to 80L
- Engel MR40F comes in a 38L capacity
- Kolner Fridge Freezer comes in a 40L capacity
Choosing The Best Camping Fridges Australia 2023
When it comes to the best camping refrigerator, there is a range of factors you need to consider to ensure it meets your needs. To purchase the perfect portable refrigerator for camping to meet your families needs, consider the factors below.
Fridge, Freezer or Both
When you’re looking for an outdoor camping fridge, it’s important to consider whether you need just a fridge, just a freezer, or a fridge freezer for camping. Different types of camping fridge freezers exist, with the top of the range models containing two separate compartments where one can be used as a fridge and one as a freezer – but these models referred to as “Dual Fridge Freezers” are top of the range and the most expensive.
A dual zone camping fridge is larger in size and takes up more space as they always have two separate compartments, and they’re heavier as well. If you’ll be on a longer trip where you’ll need to keep some items refrigerated and some items frozen then the best dual zone fridge/freezer is a must.
If, however, you can make do with just a fridge, then there are more camping fridge brands to choose from and it’ll be easier to find a small camping fridge as well.
Two Way or Three Way Fridges
Two Way (Compressor) Portable Fridges
Two way or Compressor Fridges are highly reliable and a great option if you’re after the best portable mini fridge for camping. They’ll keep your food chilled or frozen at the temperature you set, regardless of what the outdoor temperature is, making them perfect for hot weather. They work with electric power only, either through a car battery or mains supply (some will only freeze when on mains supply). The downside to 2-way camping fridges is that they tend to be heavy.
Three Way (Absorption) Portable Fridges
If you’re looking for more flexibility, you may find it with the best 3 way camping fridge or absorption fridges as they are also called. Absorption camping fridges work with either gas or electricity supply and generate the lowest temperatures of up to -18 degrees. The best 3 way fridge camping option is super quiet as well, but note that they often require expert installation for use with gas, and they have to be absolutely flat to work (they won’t operate while tilted).
Capacity and Physical Size
One of the most important things to know when deciding which is the best camping fridges 2023 has, which is right for you is to know what capacity fridge freezer you need. Will you just be storing drinks or food as well? How many people will be going camping and how long for? How often will you be able to go for grocery shopping trips and how long will your food and drink need to stay cool for? These are all questions to help you determine whether you need a larger camping fridge or if a mini camping fridge will do the job.
Another thing to bear in mind is that the larger the portable fridges, the more expensive (and of course heavier). So you don’t want to be paying for a giant camping fridge if it’s larger than your needs – if you can go to buy milk each day from the shops instead of storing a supply for several days, it will help you reduce your fridge costs.
The capacity of fridge freezers is usually measured by how many cans it can hold, although some models do give their capacity in litres as well.
Weight
As mentioned above, the larger the camping fridge you need, the more expensive it tends to be but also the heavier it gets. The very best dual camping fridge freezers will need two people to carry them and may not be easy to move around once in position.
Whereas a smaller camping mini fridge will be much better suited if you need to be able to move your fridge around or will be moving it in and out of your vehicle regularly. So definitely think how light you need your fridge to be as well as what capacity you’ll need before buying.
Insulation and Durability
When it comes to what is the best portable fridge freezer to buy, the durability and insulation for your camping fridge freezer are also super important – with any type of cooler, if the insulation is not great, then your fridge will have to work harder to maintain the temperature and consume extra power.
Camping fridge freezers come with different types of insulation – from plastic to metal and fibreglass. Fibreglass performs best at keeping your fridge contents coldest and does not absorb smells, making it super easy to clean. The downside to fibreglass fridges is they are more delicate than plastic or steel, meaning they don’t handle bumps well. For the very best insulation in your fridge, and if you’re not concerned about bumps, look for a fibreglass insulated camping fridge freezer.
Plastic is a good all round material and a good option if you’re looking for the best value camping fridge or just a cheap camping fridge (although there really is no such thing as a cheap camping fridge freezer!). It is reasonably strong, and though it doesn’t insulate as well as fibreglass, it does a better job than steel. Unless otherwise stated, most fridges come with plastic insulation as standard.
If you read any portable fridge freezer reviews, you’ll see the main advantage with steel insulation for your fridge is the strength. It’ll keep your food insulated (although not as well as fibreglass) but will bear more than a few bumps. Many of the top of the range fridge freezers come with a steel casing as this provides the most durable protection if you don’t mind the additional weight.
Other Features
- Baskets: For the best portable fridge freezer, look for ones with baskets. If you’re going to be storing more than just a few beers in your fridge, baskets are super handy to have to separate your food and drinks. Check to see if baskets come with your camping fridge freezer or if they need to be purchased separately.
- Removable Lid: It’s much easier to find what you need in your fridge when the lid opens fully, and having a fully removable lid will make it easier to put your baskets in and out too.
- Wheels: For the best dual zone fridge freezer look for one that comes with wheels. This makes it super easy to move your fridge around without having to pick it up.
- Slides: Slides make it easier to load or unload your camping fridge into your car.
- Digital Display: For easy temperature control, some camping fridges come with an app too for easy monitoring of your temperature.
- USB Port: A nice extra feature, some fridges come with a USB port to charge your phone or other gadgets too.
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: Allows you to monitor the temperature and performance of your portable fridge freezer remotely from your smartphone or tablet.
- Drain Plug: For easy cleaning, a drain plug is super helpful for draining moisture and ice out of your camping fridge after use.
Best Camping Fridge Reviews Australia 2023
Keep reading below for our camping fridges reviews.
Dometic Waeco Camping Fridge CFX Series Review
Rating: 4.5
Specifications:
- Capacity: 8 sizes from 28L to 75L
- Power Source: 12V / 240V
- Weight: 31 kg (75L size)
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 88.7 x 49.5 x 47.2 cm
If you’re looking for the best portable fridge freezer 2023 Australia has, then this high end Waeco camping fridge might just be what you need.
Packed with lots of features, this best fridge freezer camping option comes with dual compartments which can be used as a fridge and freezer simultaneously. The fridge features wifi to allow remote monitoring and cools to temperatures of between -22 and 10 degrees celsius.
This is a compressor fridge freezer which can run off the mains or is suitable for use as a solar camping fridge. The fridge comes with three wire baskets, interior LED light, digital display and a USB port as well as being wifi enabled.
If you have a look at any Waeco fridge review, you’ll quickly see that this is one of the top-awarded and most popular camping fridges out there. Plus this series of fridges come in 8 different sizes, from 28L to 75L.
So if you’re looking for a great 2 way portable fridge, why not consider the Waeco CFX range?
What I like:
- Interior light & reversible lid
- Use as a fridge/freezer simultaneously
- Wifi enabled – allows you to set, control, & monitor temperature through your gadget
- Two year national warranty
What I dislike:
- A bit heavy – 31 kg
>> Click here to check the price and to read more reviews.
Brass Monkey Portable Fridge Freezer 15L Review
Rating: 4.5
Specifications:
- Capacity: 15L
- Power Source: 12V / 24V
- Weight: 8.6 kg
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 60 x 32 x 26 cm
If you’re looking for a single zone 12v camping fridge, Brass Monkey has a great option to consider. This portable camping fridge can be used as either a fridge or a freezer and operates on either AC or DC power.
Perfect for those looking for something that is lighter weight and more portable, this model is available as a 15L camping fridge. The design features a single compartment, a digitally adjustable display, a durable lid and case, and inbuilt battery protection.
The fridge uses compression technology and low energy consumption, and can operate on both a max and economy setting.
If you’re looking for a portable fridge or freezer with high quality compression cooling, we highly recommend checking out more Brass Monkey fridge freezer reviews.
What I like:
- Lightweight and portable
- Three stage battery cut-out
- Digital display
What I dislike:
- Battery, AC power supply and solar panel are not included with purchase
>> Click here to check the price and to read more reviews.
OzTrail Dual Zone Camp Fridge Review
Rating: 4.5
Specifications:
- Capacity: 80L
- Power Source: 12V / 240V
- Weight: 30 kg
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 88 x 57 x 45.5 cm
If you’re looking for something with plenty of space for a longer trip, this 80L camping fridge by OzTrail is a good option to consider.
This dual zone compressor fridge freezer comes with removable baskets and can chill down to temperatures of -18 degrees celsius. This Oztrail fridge freezer has an inbuilt interior light, fully illuminated digital display panel so you can check on your fridge, and the fridge is coated in sturdy steel to make it one of the most durable 2 way fridge freezers around.
As you’ll read in any Oztrail fridge review, it’s recommended you get the additional transit cover for extra protection and insulation (sold separately). This Oztrail 80l dual zone fridge / freezer is also one of the best options if you’re looking for something super spacious. The main drawback of this option is its weight, which is a hefty 30kg.
If you need space and want something heavy duty, then definitely consider the OzTrail!
What I like:
- Digital control panel for precise temperature and function controls
- Portable size – can fit under most dual cab utes
- Two year national warranty
What I dislike:
- Pretty heavy (30 kg) but it is big
>> Click here to check the price and to read more reviews on eBay.
EvaKool Camping Fridge Travelmate TMX Series Review
Rating: 4.0
Specifications:
- Capacity: 38, 45, 50, 65 or 80L
- Power Source: 12V / 240V
- Weight: 20 kg (50L size)
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 71 x 45.5 x 49.8 cm
The EvaKool camping fridge TMX Series comes in a range of sizes from 38L up to 80L, meaning there’s something in this range for everyone whether you need a small camping fridge through to a full size 80L camping fridge.
This single zone compression fridge or freezer can be used in even the hottest conditions in Australia and has been tested to freeze in Australian desert conditions of 55 degrees celsius outside.
If you’re after the best 12v fridge, then you’re in luck as this 2 way fridge freezer operates on AC or DC power. Plus it is available with either side or front top openings for ease of use within your space. It has also been tested for low noise / silent use. It features an inbuilt light, cable securing point, removable baskets and a USB charging point as well.
If you’re wondering which camping fridge to buy, EvaKool has a great range of options to check out.
What I like:
- Bluetooth and wifi enabled for easier control of temperature
- Five year warranty
- Two way lid
What I dislike:
- Overfilling can put strain on handles
>> Click here to check the price and to read more reviews.
Adventure Kings Camping Fridge Review
Rating: 4.5
Specifications:
- Capacity: 45, 60, 70 or 90L
- Power Source: 12V / 240V
- Weight: 33 kg (90L size)
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 92 x 52 x 46.5 cm
If you need a large camping fridge freezer, this Kings 90L fridge review will help you work out if this is the right large camping fridge for you.
As you’ll read in any of the Kings fridges reviews, apart from its huge storage space, one of the best features of this dual zone Kings camping fridge freezer is its strength and sturdiness. With a steel casing, the fridge has been designed for toughness and features quality stainless steel fittings. You can operate each half of the fridge freezer independently on temperatures down to -18 degrees celsius, all controlled by the easy to use digital display panel.
This Kings camping fridge delivers a high quality product, without the unnecessary bells and whistles of some of the more expensive models, making this a good value spacious fridge, perfect for taking on your trailer, ute, or RV on your camping trip. The fridge also comes with a protective cover for extra insulation.
If you know you’re going to need a spacious camping fridge/freezer check out the Adventure Kings fridge! The range also includes smaller fridge sizes, from 45L and up.
What I like:
- Use is as a fridge/freezer simultaneously
- Digital display & control – easy monitoring of temperature, etc.
- Spring action, foldable handles
- Quiet, reliable & powerful compressor
What I dislike:
- None
>> Click here to check the price and to read more reviews.
EvaKool RF Fibreglass Camp Fridge Series Review
Rating: 4.5
Specifications:
- Capacity: 9 sizes from 40 to 150L
- Power Source: 12V / 240V
- Weight: 25 kg (60L size)
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 86 x 44.5 x 43 cm
This EvaKool Fibreglass camping fridge range includes sizes from a huge 150L down to a 40L camping fridge, with 9 different sizes.
If you’re looking for the best 12v camping fridge, you’re sure to find something that works for your needs within this range. These fridge freezers combine Evakool’s compressor with its fully insulated fibreglass cabinet, for award winning refrigeration. These dual zone fridge freezers come with two compartments that can be operated independently or both as a fridge or freezer.
The fibreglass insulation means that even in scorching temps of 60 degrees, your food will stay cool or frozen. Also, the fibreglass interior won’t absorb smells and is super easy to clean. There’s also no need for extra covers, and this fridge freezer range is built to be lightweight but sturdy.
So if you’re looking to buy camping fridge freezer and aren’t sure where to start, I highly recommend taking a look at this range for high quality products that’ll last many years of camping trips.
What I like:
- Secop compressor for superior airflow and cooling performance
- Can be used as a freezer, fridge, or both
- Anti rust & corrode, non porous
What I dislike:
- You need to buy the 240V mains connection separately
>> Click here to check the price and to read more reviews.
Ivation Portable Thermoelectric Fridge 45L Review
Rating: 4.5
Specifications:
- Capacity: 45L
- Power Source: 12V / 120V
- Weight: 8.5 kg
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 56 x 41 x 39 cm
This Ivation camping fridge is a large and handy 45L camping fridge with so many cool features! This is the perfect camping fridge whether you’re after the best car fridge for day trips or something bigger for weekends away.
Thanks to its long extension cord which can be wrapped and stored internally, this fridge/freezer can be placed anywhere need it to be. The fridge can operate as either a fridge or freezer, and can even maintain hot food up to 54 degrees Celsius. Wheels and a trolley system also make this heavy fridge easily portable.
In total, there are two different storage zones, making this the most versatile fridge for camping. Powered through DC (or there’s an AC adaptor), this plugin camping fridge comes with a high quality compressor, and extra durable fittings and hinges.
What I like:
- Large volume with internal divider
- Lightweight for the size
- Can keep hot food heated
What I dislike:
- Pricey
>> Click here to check the price and to read more reviews.
Engel Camping Fridge MTV Series Review
Rating: 4.0
Specifications:
- Capacity: 32, 39, 40, 57, 60, 75, or 80L
- Power Source: 12V / 240V
- Weight: 24 kg (40L size)
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 36 x 63.1 x 50.8 cm
This Engel camping fridge features some great updates to the classic Engel design with this new model that comes in a gunmetal grey colour.
This Engel camping fridge freezer features a cutting edge swing motor for compression and is the best in class cooling, with a built in battery monitor and digital thermostat control. This 2 way fridge/freezer operates on DC/AC and is a great contender if you’re looking for a high quality 60L camping fridge (the fridge also comes in other sizes up to 80L)
The fridge has two compartments which come with removable baskets, and it can either be used as a fridge or freezer down to temperatures of -18 degrees C (note this fridge cannot be used as a fridge and freezer simultaneously).
If you’re looking for the best 12 volt camping fridge with reliable, consistent cooling, then definitely have a look at the new Engel MTV.
What I like:
- Automatic internal LED light
- User-friendly digital control panel
- Five year warranty
What I dislike:
- Cannot be used as a freezer and fridge at the same time
>> Click here to check the price and to read more reviews.
Engel MR40F Camp Fridge Review
Rating: 4.0
Specifications:
- Capacity: 38L
- Power Source: 12V / 240V
- Weight: 22 kg
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 77.6 x 36.6 x 48.3 cm
If you’re looking for a simple fridge freezer, then consider the 38L chest fridge/freezer from Engel.
This high quality Engel camping fridge freezer is sold at an affordable price and gives you a compressor fridge freezer that runs off AC and DC (both cords are supplied) for reliable cooling on the go.
This is an ideal camp fridge if you need something a bit lighter that is easier for one person to carry around (it weighs 22kg). The chest features a fully reversible lid and transit bag which provides additional insulation.
If you’re looking for a reliable, great value fridge freezer to use for days out or weekends away, then this fridge may just be the way to go.
What I like:
- Lightweight & compact
- Comes with a transit bag for safer transport & increased insulation
- Cost effective & energy efficient
- Three year warranty
What I dislike:
- No digital temperature display
>> Click here to check the price and to read more reviews.
Kolner Fridge Freezer 40L Review
Rating: 4.0
Specifications:
- Capacity: 40L
- Power Source: 12V / 24V / 240V
- Weight: 12.5 kg
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 63 x 36 x 47 cm
This Kolner fridge can be used as either a fridge and a freezer thanks to a temperature range of between -18°C and +10°C.
The LCD screen makes navigating the options easy. Once set, the fridge compartment will regulate itself to keep your refrigerated foods at the optimal temperature. There is an internal divider but the system can only be used as either a fridge or freezer. Unfortunately there is no interior light which means you’ll need a torch if you fancy a midnight snack.
It might not be the cheapest option, but a fast cooling time and durable hinges, wheels, trolley and lifting handle work to make this a really solid investment and definitely worth considering.
What I like:
- Freezer and fridge functionality
- Durable trolley system for easy transport
- Quality insulation
What I dislike:
- No internal light
>> Click here to check the price and to read more reviews.
I hope you enjoyed this guide to the best camping fridge. We’ve also got a guide to the best car fridge here as well as the best eski/cooler, best camping stove, best travel backpack, best camping table or the best hiking backpack. Otherwise, you can find all our guides to the best travel and camping gear here.
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