Imagine this: you’re on a long road trip in your shiny new electric car, the sun is beating down, and your snacks are starting to feel warm. You brought along a cooler, but is it the *right* kind for your electric vehicle? Choosing a cooler for your EV isn’t as simple as it used to be. You want something that keeps your drinks frosty and your sandwiches fresh, but you also need to think about how it will work with your car’s power system.
Many people get frustrated trying to figure out which coolers are best. Do you need a special plug? Will it drain your car’s battery too fast? These are common questions, and finding clear answers can be tough. That’s where this guide comes in! We’re here to help you cut through the confusion and find the perfect electric car cooler that fits your needs and your EV.
By reading on, you’ll learn what to look for, understand the different types of coolers available, and discover tips to make your next adventure even cooler. Get ready to say goodbye to lukewarm drinks and hello to perfectly chilled treats on every journey.
Our Top 5 Electric Car Cooler Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Electric Car Cooler Detailed Reviews
1. EUHOMY 12 Volt Refrigerator
Rating: 9.3/10
The EUHOMY 12 Volt Refrigerator is a versatile portable cooler that keeps your food and drinks at the perfect temperature, whether you’re camping, traveling, or just on a road trip. This cooler can be used as a fridge or a freezer, giving you flexibility for all your adventures.
What We Like:
- It cools down really fast, from 77°F to 32°F in just 15 minutes.
- You can control it using an app on your phone, which is super convenient.
- The magnetic lid seals tightly to keep things cold longer.
- It has battery protection to keep your car battery from draining.
- It works quietly, so it won’t disturb you.
- It’s built tough and can handle bumpy roads.
- It comes with adapters for home and car use (AC and DC).
- It includes 2 years of tech support.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 19QT capacity might be a bit small for longer trips with many people.
- While it’s portable, it does have some weight to it.
This EUHOMY portable refrigerator is a fantastic companion for anyone who loves to explore. Its smart features and durable design make it a reliable choice for keeping your refreshments cool on the go.
2. EUHOMY 12 Volt Refrigerator
Rating: 9.3/10
The EUHOMY 59QT(55L) Electric Cooler is a versatile and powerful portable refrigerator designed to keep your food and drinks perfectly chilled, no matter where your adventures take you. Whether you’re heading out camping, embarking on a long road trip, or just need extra cold storage at home, this 12V fridge offers reliable cooling and smart features to make your life easier.
What We Like:
- It cools down super fast, going from warm to 32°F in just 15 minutes.
- You can control it with a handy app on your phone using Bluetooth.
- It has two separate areas to keep different foods, and it helps stop smells from mixing.
- It works with both car power (12/24V DC) and wall power (100-240V AC), so you can use it anywhere.
- The battery protection feature stops it from draining your car’s battery too much.
- It’s energy efficient, using only about 45W on average, and has an ECO mode to save power.
- It comes with a removable handle for easy carrying and an LED light inside to see your food at night.
- You get 2 years of tech support if you have any questions.
What Could Be Improved:
- The app control, while convenient, relies on Bluetooth connectivity which can sometimes be spotty.
- While the dual storage is great, the two zones have a fixed temperature range, so you can’t set them to drastically different temperatures (e.g., one as a freezer and one as a fridge).
This EUHOMY electric cooler is an excellent choice for anyone needing a reliable and feature-rich portable refrigeration solution. Its smart controls and efficient cooling make it a worthy companion for all your travels.
3. BougeRV 12 Volt Refrigerator 12V Car Fridge 23 Quart Portable Freezer Compressor Cooler 12/24V DC 110~240 Volt AC for Truck Van RV Camper SUV Travel Camping Road Trips Tailgating -8℉~50℉
Rating: 8.8/10
The BougeRV 12 Volt Refrigerator, also known as the CR22, is a 23-quart portable freezer that’s ready for any adventure. It keeps your food perfectly chilled or frozen, whether you’re on a long road trip, camping, or just tailgating. This fridge works with both your car’s power and standard wall outlets, making it super versatile.
What We Like:
- It cools down really fast, from room temperature to 32℉ in just 15 minutes!
- You can set it to keep things as cold as -5℉, so no more spoiled food.
- It’s energy efficient, using less than 1kWh per day, even when it’s working hard.
- The fridge runs quietly at only 45dB, so it won’t disturb your sleep.
- It’s built tough with a shock-proof design, so it handles bumpy roads well.
- The battery protection feature stops it from draining your car’s battery.
- It comes with AC and DC power cords, and the user manual is included.
- BougeRV offers friendly 2-year tech support if you have any questions.
- It’s lightweight at just over 22 pounds, making it easy to move.
What Could Be Improved:
- The user manual should be clearer about the battery protection settings.
- The refrigerator door can warp if left in direct sunlight.
This BougeRV portable fridge is a fantastic companion for anyone who loves to travel and wants to keep their food and drinks perfectly cold. It offers great performance and useful features for all your outdoor and travel needs.
4. GarveeTech 35 QT (33 L) Electric Cooler & Warmer
Rating: 8.6/10
Meet the GarveeTech 35 QT (33 L) Electric Cooler & Warmer, your ultimate companion for keeping food and drinks just right, no matter where you go. This portable car refrigerator is designed for convenience, whether you’re on a long road trip, heading to a picnic, or just need to keep something cold at home. Its sturdy grey design and smart features make it a versatile addition to any adventure.
What We Like:
- Keeps food and drinks perfectly cold (0°C) or hot (50°C) with powerful thermoelectric technology.
- Offers a large 35 QT (33 L) capacity, fitting plenty of water bottles, food containers, and even 2-liter soda bottles.
- Super easy to clean with just a quick wipe, so maintenance is a breeze.
- Switching between cooling and heating modes is simple with a flip of a switch.
- The built-in fan and one-touch switches ensure safe and easy operation.
- The foldable auto-locking handle makes it comfortable to carry, and it locks automatically to prevent spills.
- It works with both 12V car outlets and 110V AC home power cords, giving you power options anywhere.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it keeps things cool, the temperature range might not be sufficient for true deep freezing.
- The cooling and heating times can be a bit slow depending on the ambient temperature.
The GarveeTech 35 QT cooler and warmer is a fantastic choice for anyone who loves to travel or enjoy the outdoors. Its flexibility and user-friendly design make it a reliable way to have your favorite foods and drinks ready when you are.
5. Ivation Electric Cooler & Warmer with Handle
Rating: 9.1/10
The Ivation Electric Cooler & Warmer is a versatile 24-liter portable fridge designed for life on the go. It keeps your food and drinks perfectly chilled or warm, making it ideal for everything from camping trips to road adventures.
What We Like:
- It keeps drinks icy cold at 40°F and hot food warm at 130°F.
- The large interior holds plenty of items, including 2-liter soda bottles.
- It’s easy to clean and requires no special maintenance.
- Switching between cooling and warming is as simple as flipping a switch.
- It comes with power adapters for both home (110V AC) and vehicle (12V DC) use.
- Pre-chilling food helps it stay colder for longer.
What Could Be Improved:
- The cooling and warming performance can be affected by ambient temperature.
- It relies on an external power source, so it won’t keep things cold or hot without being plugged in.
This cooler offers fantastic convenience for anyone who loves to travel or spend time outdoors. It’s a smart way to enjoy your favorite foods and drinks wherever you are.
Your Guide to Staying Cool on the Go: Choosing an Electric Car Cooler
Hot summer days can make your car feel like an oven. You want your drinks and snacks to stay refreshingly cold. An electric car cooler is your solution. This handy device plugs into your car’s power outlet and keeps your items chilled. Let’s find the best one for your needs.
What to Look for in an Electric Car Cooler
Key Features to Consider
- Cooling Power: This is the most important feature. Look for coolers that can cool to a certain temperature below the outside air. Some can even cool down to 30-40 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Capacity: How much do you need to carry? Coolers come in various sizes, from small lunchbox types to larger ones that can hold gallons of drinks.
- Power Source: Most plug into your car’s 12-volt power outlet. Some might also have a separate AC adapter for home use.
- Portability: Consider how easy it is to carry. Look for sturdy handles and a lightweight design.
- Durability: A good cooler should last. Check for strong construction and good seals.
- Extra Features: Some coolers have features like thermoelectric cooling (which can also heat!), digital temperature displays, or even built-in cup holders.
Important Materials
The best electric car coolers use high-quality plastics. Look for ABS plastic, which is tough and resists damage. The interior lining should be easy to clean and food-safe. Good insulation is also key. This often involves thick walls with foam or other insulating materials.
Factors That Affect Quality
Good insulation makes a big difference. It helps the cooler maintain its temperature efficiently. A powerful cooling fan also ensures even cooling throughout the unit. Sturdy hinges and latches prevent wear and tear. A well-sealed lid stops cold air from escaping. Cheaply made parts can break easily and reduce the cooler’s lifespan.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using an electric car cooler is simple. You plug it into your car’s power outlet, and it starts cooling. It’s perfect for road trips, camping, picnics, and even just carrying groceries on a hot day. Imagine keeping your water bottles icy cold during a long drive or having chilled snacks for your kids at the park. You can even use some models to keep food warm on your way home from the grocery store!
The user experience is generally positive. People appreciate not having to buy ice bags that melt. They also like that the cooler doesn’t take up much space in their car. Some users might find the fan noise a little noticeable, but it’s usually not a major issue.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How cold do electric car coolers get?
A: Most electric car coolers can cool items to about 30-40 degrees Fahrenheit below the outside temperature. Some advanced models can reach temperatures as low as 30 degrees Fahrenheit.
Q: Can I use an electric car cooler at home?
A: Some electric car coolers come with an AC adapter, allowing you to use them at home or in a hotel room. Check the product description to see if this feature is included.
Q: How much electricity do they use?
A: They use a small amount of electricity, similar to a car’s radio. They are designed to run without draining your car battery significantly, especially when the engine is running.
Q: Do I still need ice?
A: No, you don’t need ice. The cooler uses electricity to generate its own cold. This means your items won’t get wet from melting ice.
Q: Are they noisy?
A: They have a fan that runs to circulate the cold air. The noise level varies by model, but most are comparable to a quiet computer fan.
Q: Can I use it to keep food warm?
A: Yes, many electric car coolers have a warming function. They can heat food to around 120-150 degrees Fahrenheit.
Q: How do I clean an electric car cooler?
A: Most coolers have removable interiors or can be wiped down with a damp cloth and mild soap. Always unplug the cooler before cleaning.
Q: What is the difference between thermoelectric and compressor coolers?
A: Thermoelectric coolers are common in car coolers and use electricity to create a temperature difference. Compressor coolers are more like home refrigerators and are more powerful but usually larger and more expensive.
Q: How long will my food stay cold if the cooler is unplugged?
A: Once unplugged, a well-insulated cooler will keep items cold for several hours, depending on the outside temperature and how often the lid is opened.
Q: Are they safe for all types of food?
A: Yes, they are safe for all types of perishable food and drinks, just like a regular refrigerator.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.