If you’ve been keeping up with my latest posts, you’ll know that I’ve been loving our family camping trips around Australia recently. We’ve certainly been getting better at working out what our true camping essentials are – and which things we can do without – when heading out for a weekend camping.
Whenever we head out on a car camping trip, having the best car fridge Australia has with us is definitely one of the essentials, and especially when going with the family for a few days or meeting friends at a campsite.
Finding the best car fridge freezer Australia, unfortunately, wasn’t that easy – there are so many choices when it comes to a car fridge freezer for sale that it can be hard to know what to pick. But with lots of trials (and a little error), I’m happy to say that we finally seem to have cracked the car fridge code.
Click here to see the best car fridge Australia 2023 now!
In this guide I’ll walk you through the most important things to look for when choosing which car fridge freezer to buy, I’ll share my car fridge comparison table and individual car fridge review breakdown.
Whether you’re looking for cheap car fridges, a small fridge for car or even something else, I’ve got you covered in this guide!
Contents
Compare The Top 10 Best Buy Car Fridge Australia 2023
| Name | Weight | Capacity | Power Source | Temperature Range | Price | Features | Rating |
| Advwin 13L Mini Fridge | 5 kg | 12.8L | 12V/240V | 22 °C to 25 °C | Check | Warms and cools, removable tray, DC and AC adapters included | 4.0 |
| Dometic Waeco CFX75DZW Wi-Fi Car Fridge Freezer | 31 kg | 75L | 12V/240V | 10 °C to -22 °C | Check | WiFi-enabled, detachable/reversible lid, USB outlet | 4.0 |
| Adventure Kings 45L Portable Car Fridge Freezer | 17.8 kg | 45L | 12V/240V | 10 °C to -18 °C | Check | Interior automatic LED, digital control panel, reversible side opening | 4.0 |
| Advwin 49L Portable Fridge Cooler Freezer | 16 kg | 49L | 12V/120V | 20 °C to -20 °C | Check | Touch display, well insulated, fast cooling | 4.5 |
| Brass Monkey Portable Fridge Freezer 15L | 8.6 kg | 15L | 12V/24V | 10 °C to -20 °C | Check | Bluetooth connectivity, USB port, 3-year warranty | 4.5 |
| Evakool Travelmate TMDZ Dual Zone Car Fridge Freezer | 23.5 kg | 80L | 12V/240V | 10 °C to -22 °C | Check | USB port, bright LED light, temperature monitor app | 4.0 |
| Evakool Fibreglass Car Fridge Freezer | 22 kg | 47L | 12V/240V | 5°C to -16 °C | Check | Digital control, low power usage, heat resistant material | 4.0 |
| Engel MT-V Series 60L Car Fridge | 33 kg | 60L | 12V/240V | minimum approximately -18 °C | Check | Automatic LED light, energy efficient motor, lockable door latch | 4.5 |
| Brass Monkey 80L Dual Zone Car Fridge Freezer on eBay | 22 kg | 80L | 12V/240V | 20 °C to -20 °C | Check on eBay | Low noise compressor, backlit LCD screen, control app | 4.0 |
| Alpicool C15 Portable Refrigerator | 8.6 kg | 15L | 12V/240V | Up to -20 °C | Check | Thick insulation, fast cooling, low energy consumption | 4.5 |
Top 10 Best Car Fridge Australia 2023
Below is a handy reference list of the best car fridge for sale Australia offers – see all the full best car fridge 2023 reviews below!
- Advwin Mini Fridge, 12.8L
- Dometic Waeco CFX75DZW Wi-Fi Car Fridge Freezer, 75L
- Adventure Kings 45L Portable Car Fridge Freezer, 45L
- Advwin Portable Fridge Cooler Freezer, 49L
- Brass Monkey Portable Fridge Freezer, 15L
- Evakool TMDZ Dual Zone Fridge Freezer, 80L
- Evakool Fibreglass Car Fridge Freezer, 47L
- Engel MT-V Series Car Fridge, 60L
- Brass Monkey Dual Zone Car Fridge Freezer, 80L
- Alpicool C15 Portable Refrigerator, 15L
How To Choose The Best Car Refrigerator
When reading car fridge freezer reviews and deciding which one to buy, there are many important considerations and factors to weigh up beforehand. There’s a lot to consider when buying a fridge, so I’ve broken it down into the most important things you need to know below.
Type
First of all, you’ll want to look into the different types of car fridges that are available and what will be most likely to meet your needs – whether that’s a small car fridge Australia option or a larger fridge freezer.
One of the first things you need to consider when making your car fridge freezer comparison is whether you just want just a fridge or whether you need a freezer. There is also the option of having a refrigerator that has separate compartments that can be used as both a fridge and freezer simultaneously.
Then you’ll want to consider what fuel source you want your fridge to use: Whether you want a gas run fridge, an electric fridge or a 3-way fridge that can use either. I’ll go into more detail on the different types below.
Chest Fridge
Put simply; a chest fridge is a top opening box-style fridge. They come in varying sizes and capacities and have many advantages to them:
- Chest fridges are usually best if you’re after something on the cheaper side.
- There is a range of sizes and capacities available from the best car mini fridge to a huge 90L+ fridge.
- Chest fridges are the most common type of car fridges and make a great starting point.
- Chest fridges are less ideal if you want a car fridge that you can set up permanently in a van.
Dual Zone Car Fridge Freezer
While some simple chest fridges can also function as freezers, some cheap car fridge freezer options use the same space as either a fridge or a freezer. If you want to have different sections that you can use as a fridge and a freezer simultaneously, you’ll need a Dual Zone fridge freezer.
- Dual Zone fridge freezers cost more but are essential if you want to keep food in both a fridge and a freezer.
- They offer greater flexibility and storage options – you can use both units as a fridge, both as a freezer or one of each.
- Can carry both chilled and frozen foods/liquids
Drawer Fridge
If you’re looking for a drawer vs a top opening chest fridge, you’ll need to keep the following in mind:
- Drawer fridges require permanent installation in say a 4WD or van.
- If you’re looking for a small fridge, this is probably not the option for you.
- More expensive than most other car fridge types
3-Way Fridge
A 3 Way Fridge is another type to think about when looking you’re looking to buy car fridge online. The main advantage of this type of fridge is it can operate on either electricity or gas:
- They offer the most flexibility as it is compatible with gas, mains electricity or 12V car batteries.
- Also known as ‘absorption fridges.’
- More expensive than 2 way compressor fridges
- Most efficient option for running on gas
Size, Weight And Capacity
Once you’ve got more of an idea of which type of fridge will be most suitable for your needs, size, weight and capacity are next on the list of the most important factors to consider when choosing your perfect car fridge.
Size
You’ll want to make sure it fits properly into your car and have measured out the space you have available. Remember to factor in room above your fridge for opening the lid and being able to load/unload items from your fridge too if you’ll be keeping it in your car!
Weight
If you plan on loading and unloading your fridge from your car, the weight will be an important factor. Car and camping fridges are designed to be portable, and many smaller models come with a carry strap. Some of the larger dual zone fridges come with loading wheels.
Capacity
Capacity is yet another critical consideration. Capacity is indicated in litres for fridges, and at the lower end, car and camping fridges start at around 35L capacity (suitable for a weekend camping trip for a couple) up to around 90L which would suit a large family going on a week-long camping trip. In between, there are plenty of different capacity options making it easy to find one to suit your needs.
Power Source and Consumption
Next, in my list of things to consider in your research is the power source for your car camping fridge and how efficient you need it to be.
The three main power sources that portable car fridges use are 12V (car or leisure battery), 240V mains supply electricity, or gas. Compressor fridges run on one or both of these electricity sources while 3 way fridges can also use gas. If you want a refrigerator you can also use at home; it’s probably best to ensure that it can be used with 240V mains supply as well.
Insulation, Material and Durability
One of the factors that will determine your car fridge’s quality and performance (and also the car fridge price) is the insulation material. Car fridges need to be well secured during transit (either wedged in or tied down) but even then may suffer a few knocks.
The main materials used in car fridges include plastics, fibreglass and steel. Steel wins for strength and durability (and resistance against bumps) but is the most inadequate insulator of the three. Plastics are a good all round compromise (although look for CFC free options) as they are a cost effective option that provides reasonable strength and sound insulation. Fibreglass is the best insulator but is less robust externally.
Some of the larger car fridge models have steel plated corners for added strength.
Compressor Type
If you choose a compressor fridge over an absorption option, reading up on the type of compressor is also a great idea. The power of your compressor will determine how cold your food stays, as well as how much energy it consumes.
There are several leading brands of compressors when it comes to comparing car fridge freezers. SECOP compressors (previously Danfoss) are known as the “founders” of modern fridge compressor technology. However, newer entrants such as Dometic Waeco are currently leading the way when it comes to the most advanced compressors on the market when it comes to the most cooling power.
If you’re looking for durability overall, the Sawafuji swing motor compressor is known to last longest thanks to its simplicity when compared with other compressors. With a Sawafuji, you can bet on a long lasting compressor that’s efficient as well.
If you are going to be travelling in warm or hot temperatures and need to ensure your fridge will keep your food cold in the heat, make sure you check the temperature specs of your chosen car fridge compressor.
Other Great Features
There’s a lot to consider when buying a car fridge freezer as you can see – when reading car fridge reviews, these are a few extras I recommend keeping an eye out for:
Internal Lighting
Nobody wants to be rummaging around in the dark! This is especially important if you have a larger car fridge freezer – it’s much easier to find things after sundown if you have a built in light rather than searching around with a torch.
Baskets
If you’re going to be storing more than just a few beers in your fridge, baskets are super handy to have so that you can separate your food and drinks out. Check to see if baskets come with your car fridge freezer or if they need to be purchased separately.
Fridge Slide
A fridge slide is important if you’re going for a larger fridge freezer as it’ll help you load and unload the fridge onto the back of your car or pickup without as much heavy lifting.
Drain Plug
For easy cleaning, a drain plug is super helpful for draining moisture and ice out of your camping fridge after use.
Digital Display and Controls
For easy temperature control, some car fridges come with an app too for easy monitoring of your temperature.
Transit Cover
This is highly recommended if you’re planning on driving long distances or on less-good roads – it’ll help protect your fridge from knocks and bumps and it can also enhance the cooling performance too.
Wi-Fi/Bluetooth Connectivity
Just a nice to have – it allows you to monitor the temperature and performance of your portable fridge freezer remotely from your smartphone or tablet.
Best Car Fridge Reviews Australia 2023
Advwin 13L Mini Fridge Review
Rating: 4.0
Specifications:
- Weight: 5 kg
- Capacity: 12.8L
- Power Source: 12V/240V
- Temperature Range: 22 °C to 25 °C
First up in my car fridge reviews is this small car fridge by Advwin. It has a 13 litre capacity with a removable tray so you can either maximise space or keep things separated.
This little fridge can either be plugged into either your car via the DC adapter cable or the wall via the AC cable. Small and attractive, it takes up little space and heats as well as cools. Important to note however is that this fridge cools to a maximum of 25 degrees Celsius below ambient temperature.
If you want something compact, quiet and with minimal fuss, this is a top option.
What I like:
- Warms as well as cools
- Removable tray
- Includes both DC and AC adapters
What I dislike:
- Not the best option for hot days
>>Click here to check the price and to read more reviews.
Dometic Waeco CFX75DZW Wi-Fi Car Fridge Freezer Review
Rating: 4.0
Specifications:
- Weight: 31 kg
- Capacity: 75L
- Power Source: 12V/240V
- Temperature Range: 10 °C to -22 °C
Another great model, the Dometic CFX75DZW Fridge / Freezer features an impressive 75 litre capacity and can hold up to 113 cans.
This dual zone fridge and freezer is exceptionally durable and easy to use. It features an excellent cooling performance despite high temperatures. What’s more, it comes with a WiFi app that allows you to control, set, and monitor the temperature of every compartment using your phone or tablet.
You can also get two independent temperatures as it has two separate cooling compartments, for chilled and frozen food. It also comes with a carry case for extra storage.
If you’re looking for a car fridge that’s best for travelling, then this best RV fridge is a great option. Not only is it energy-efficient, but it also features a lot of useful technology.
What I like:
- Suitable for solar operation
- Features an interior light, reversible lid, LED display, and a USB outlet in case you run out of battery during trips
- Two year national warranty
What I dislike:
- Expensive – you get what you pay for
>> Click here to check the price and to read more reviews.
Adventure Kings 45L Portable Car Fridge Freezer Review
Rating: 4.0
Specifications:
- Weight: 17.8 kg
- Capacity: 45L
- Power Source: 12V/240V
- Temperature Range: 10 °C to -18 °C
Known to be one of Adventure King’s newest models, this 45-litre fridge freezer is an excellent investment if you want to plan a camping trip in the near future.
It features a Secop BD35F compressor, smart, and durable handles pivot up for easy movement and temperature controls that are easy to use. It’s extra thick EVA seals and casing insulation means that it’s incredibly efficient in holding temperature.
Moreover, its adjustable power cut off and interior light makes it one of the most user friendly fridges out there in the market. The lid can also be easily reversed so that it will fit any type of position inside your vehicle.
Overall, if you’re a budget-conscious traveller, this car fridge offers good value. This model won’t let you down if you’re on the road.
What I like:
- Made of thick EVA seal and casing insulation for even better & efficient temperature hold
- Easy to use
- Comes with three stage adjustable battery protection
What I dislike:
- Nothing
>> Click here to check the price and to read more reviews.
Advwin 49L Portable Fridge Cooler Freezer Review
Rating: 4.5
Specifications:
- Weight: 16 kg
- Capacity: 49L
- Power Source: 12V/240V
- Temperature Range: 20 °C to -20 °C
If you need a decent capacity fridge/freezer this Advwin Portable Fridge offers 49 litres of space.
This is both a fridge and freezer (although it can only be used as one at a time) with a touch display to easily set temperature, and a lift up lid without hinges. It plugs conveniently into the car via a DC cable and can cool fast – it can reach the lowest temperature in about an hour. Alternatively you can plug it into the wall.
Side handles make it easy to carry and battery protection protects your car battery. These are durable fridges with good insultation to keep food cool in the short term even without power. They also run relatively quietly at around 45 dB.
Whether you’re hitting the road, or you’re just staying at home, this fridge/freezer can make your life a little bit easier.
What I like:
- Touch display
- Well insulated
- Fast cooling
What I dislike:
- Manual is difficult to read
- Lid prone to scratching
>> Click here to check the price and to read more reviews.
Brass Monkey Portable Fridge Freezer Review
Rating: 4.5
Specifications:
- Weight: 8.6 kg
- Capacity: 15L
- Power Source: 12V/24V
- Temperature Range: 10 °C to -20 °C
If you’re looking for high-quality fridges that are made to last, then you could consider going with the Brass Monkey Portable Fridge Freezer. This is a versatile unit that allows you to cool or freeze food on the go from the convenience of your car.
The exterior is made of a tough and well insulated plastic. The unit can be controlled via a digital LED display panel, and it can be plugged straight into the DC socket of your car. It also includes a USB port for charging devices and can be controlled remotely via their app.
What’s also great about this Brass Monkey fridge is that it comes with a 3-year warranty. Overall, if you’re looking for a durable and reliable fridge with a few bells and whistles, this may be one for you!
What I like:
- Includes USB port for charging devices
- Can be controlled via bluetooth
- 3-year warranty
What I dislike:
- Only a DC cable is included
>> Click here to check the price and to read more reviews.
Evakool TMDZ Dual Zone Fridge Freezer Review
Rating: 4.0
Specifications:
- Weight: 23.5 kg
- Capacity: 80L
- Power Source: 12V/240V
- Temperature Range: 10 °C to -22 °C
The Evakool TMDZ Dual Zone Fridge features dual zone fridge/freezers that have a fully insulated top and base.
Its lid is also split so that it’s easy to open from either side while keeping the other lid closed. You can also opt to remove the lid altogether. It’s also equipped with a LED light, making it easy to find whatever you need.
Another unique feature is the remote controlling. You can connect to the Evakool app, and it will allow you to monitor your fridge to ensure it stays at the ideal temperature. You can connect your fridge to various sources including 12V, 24V and 240V.
Overall, it is the perfect companion for your next camping trip or weekend getaway.
What I like:
- Consumes low power & runs quietly yet efficiently
- Bi directional and removable lid
- USB port for emergency gadget charging
- Use with the Evakool app to monitor/control temperature and more
- Three year warranty
What I dislike:
- Nothing
>> Click here to check the price and to read more reviews.
Evakool Fibreglass Car Fridge Freezer Review
Rating: 4.0
Specifications:
- Weight: 22 kg
- Capacity: 47L
- Power Source: 12V/240V
- Temperature Range: 5°C to -16 °C
Whether you’re a camper, 4×4 enthusiast, trucky, or anything in between the Evakool Fibreglass Car Fridge is your ideal travel partner.
An extremely versatile, portable, and user-friendly 12V/24V Fridge/Freezer combination, it integrates an insulated fibreglass cabinet and a high-quality EvaKool EK25DC Compressor.
And despite Australia’s hot temperatures, this fridge freezer has a cooling capacity that’s up to 60ºC below ambient.
It also comes with a unique design that gives you the flexibility to adjust the capacity of both fridge and freezer compartments.
So, if you’re looking for a car fridge that can either function as a fridge, freezer, or fridge/freezer combination, then this is a great choice.
What I like:
- Doesn’t absorb foods’ taste or any smell, anti rust, corrode, & dent
- Features a drainage bung as well for easier cleaning
- Fully insulated cabinet material
- Good price
- Five year warranty
What I dislike:
- 240V mains connection sold separately
>> Click here to check the price and to read more reviews.
Engel MT-V Series Car Fridge Review
Rating: 4.5
Specifications:
- Weight: 33 kg
- Capacity: 60L
- Power Source: 12V/240V
- Temperature Range: minimum approximately -18 °C
Engel’s Portable Fridge Freezers are well-known for its durability, superb performance, and longevity so there’s no surprise that a few are featured in these reviews – like the all new MT-V series.
The Engel MT-V Series features a strong steel body and the highly reliable Sawafuji Swing Motor which boasts the lowest maximum power consumption available on the market. The MT-V series comes in either a 32, 40, 60, and 80 Litre fridge or freezer capacity.
When it comes to Engel fridge prices, Australia offers a range of different options for all budgets. The Engel MT-V is one of the more expensive options, but it is possible to get an Engel fridge sale, Australia does offer this from time to time.
What I like:
- LED light with auto shut off
- Padlock compatible
- Tough handles and corner protectors
What I dislike:
- Doesn’t have a digital temperature display
>> Click here to check the price and to read more reviews.
Brass Monkey Dual Zone Car Fridge Freezer Review
Rating: 4.0
Specifications:
- Weight: 22 kg
- Capacity: 80L
- Power Source: 12V/240V
- Temperature Range: 20 °C to -20 °C
The Brass Monkey Dual Zone Car Fridge / Freezer features a removable divider that allows you to operate the fridge either as two small zones, or a single large zone. You can also independently control the temperature of every zone. It can also be powered by either 12/24VDC or 240VAC through the external mains power supply.
It also features an LCD screen that allows you to control the temperatures easily. The display shows the battery voltage as well. Additionally, it has a USB port that will keep your phone and other devices charged.
If you’re searching for a product that has excellent durability and efficiency, then this is an ideal choice.
What I like:
- Very affordable
- LED lights in each compartment with auto shut off
- LCD screen and app control
- Three year warranty
What I dislike:
- Nothing
>> Click here to check the price and to read more reviews on eBay.
Alpicool C15 Portable Refrigerator Review
Rating: 4.5
Specifications:
- Weight: 8.6 kg
- Capacity: 15L
- Power Source: 12V/240V
- Temperature Range: Up to -20 °C
If you want the top car fridge/freezer that money can buy, check out the Alpicool C15 Portable Refrigerator.
With plenty of space inside at 15 litres, this is an easy to use car fridge with excellent power. Featured is an LED control panel to pick the temperature and a USB outlet for charging devices. There is a long DC cord as well as an AC cable, and it can also be powered with solar panels.
This fridge/freezer benefits from fast cooling, thick insulation and reliable battery protection for your car, with 3 different power levels and an eco-mode to ensure low energy consumption. Relatively quiet with low vibration, this is a fast cooling and super efficient car fridge/freezer.
What I like:
- Thick insulation helps it stay cool when not plugged in
- Fast cooling
- Low energy consumption
- Handy control panel
What I dislike:
- Construction feels a little cheap
>> Click here to check the price and to read more reviews.
I hope you enjoyed this guide to the best car fridge. You can find our guide to the best eski here, best camping fridge here or camping BBQ here. We have a range of other camping gear guides as well such as the best sleeping bags or camping mattress. Read all our guides to the best camping gear here.
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
