Brrr, ‘tis a bit chilly, no? Oh, apologies, friend… I appear to have left the fridge open!
That’s right, snowbirds. Today we are talking about the BEST portable fridge freezers for RV living and on-the-road life.
Fridge freezers are NOT like their simpler cooler counterparts. Fridge freezers generally come loaded with complex electrical systems and deluxe features to really upgrade your snackage.
So yes, we’ll be diving into a wealth of complex specs and features today. Prepare your thinking caps because you’re gonna have to use your noodle! That said, I’ve gone out of my way to categorize and simplify the purchase process as much as possible.
To keep it chill (hurhur), the overall BEST value portable fridge freezer is clear. The Dometic CFX3 55IM comes straight from a leading brand’s leading fridge series in the RV gear space. It’s got great value, top-of-the-line performance, and plenty of features smooshed into one well-sized 58-quart package.
But, that’s just one of these doozies! All in all, we have 9 portable fridge freezers for you today. Each is perfectly suited for a different niche of RV traveler and their need to cool and freeze things while using less power.
Ponder no more – the answers are coming. Unpack and unthaw this tasty knowledge because you’re about to get served 12 slices of informed consumer pie!
The Best Portable Fridges and Coolers: Our Top 9 Picks
- Dometic — CFX5-55L IM Electric Cooler [Editor’s Choice]
- ARB — ZERO 47-Quart Fridge [Premium Pick]
- BougeRV 12V 30 Quart (28L) Portable Refrigerator [Budget Buy]
- Dometic — CFX5-95L DZ Electric Cooler [Best High-Capacity Cooler]
- Dometic — CFX5-25L Electric Cooler [Best Low-Capacity Cooler]
- Anker SOLIX Everfrost 2 40-Liter Battery-Powered Cooler [Best on the Go]
- Dometic CCF-T Ford F-150/Super Duty/Expedition Center Console Refrigerator [Best Console Cooler]
- Goal Zero Alta 50 12-Volt Fridge [Best for Yeti Power Stations]
- BougeRV Rocky 41QT Dual Zone 12V Portable Fridge [Best Dual-Zone Fridge-Freezer]
Key Features That Stand Out To Us
Very briefly, I want to just cover both the essential and premium features you’ll be examining when buying a portable fridge freezer. It’s important to have some prior knowledge of this before I start lobbing specs and technicals at you.
When choosing a portable fridge freezer for your RV, here are the mandatory considerations:
- Power Usage and Options. Ideally, look for compatibility with 12V, 24V, and 100/110-240V. Moreover, solar panel support will give you all the power options you need. Just make sure you have an electrical system and a high-quality battery for your RV that can handle the heat! (Uhhhh, cold. :P)
- Temperature Range. Generally, you want a fridge that can reach at least -4°F to function effectively as a freezer. You can go a bit higher, but I wouldn’t recommend too much higher.
- Capacity/Storage Room. This depends on your needs. Generally, you’ll be looking at fridges with anywhere from ~26 quarts in capacity up to ~105.
- Durability. Choose models made from resilient materials like ABS plastic or metal. Electrical protection is also a must.
- Insulation. Lastly, prioritize units with thick walls or foam insulation to maintain steady temperatures and preserve energy. Some units may also come with an insulated cover for even more cooling factor.
But for those who want a few extra luxuries, we have those too! Here are some AWESOME quality-of-life extra features to consider:
- Remote controls (Bluetooth, WiFi, phone apps, etc.)
- Built-in ice makers
- USB ports (for charging devices)
- Interior LED lighting, organization, removable divider, cup holders, etc.
- Dual-zone fridge-freezer functionality
As we go along with the reviews, you’ll get a much firmer sense of what these are and how they all factor in. For now, keep in mind that there is significantly more going on with a portable fridge freezer than just a basic powered cooler.
The 9 Best Portable Fridge Freezers Reviewed
Ok, so how about those reviews? The roads ahead are long and winding. You NEED chilled beverages and snacks.
It’s dangerous to go alone… Take one of these!
Editor’s Choice
1. Dometic — CFX5-55L IM Electric Cooler
- Capacity: 58 qt
- Temperature Range: -7°F to 68°F
- Power Source: 12V/24V DC / 100V-240V AC
- Dimensions: 18.9″ x 28.4 x 17.9″
- Weight: 48 lbs
Looking for that top spot competitor? The Dometic CFX5 55IM is your guy, courtesy of its supreme balance of performance, durability, and innovative features. In fact, Dometic happens to be a leading brand in this space for many RVers! (Expect to see them a lot on this list.)
On the design side of things, the CFX5 blends durable design with top-shelf performance. The fridge-freezer harnesses VMSO compressor technology and vacuum-insulated panels to achieve an impressive level of energy efficiency while keeping your snackos fresh and tasty!
But it’s with its premium features that the Dometic really shines. One of its more unique perks is the built-in ice maker – a rare find in portable fridge freezers. (And more something I’m used to seeing in the best RV full-size refrigerators rather than these smaller portable units.) This nifty feature demonstrates Dometic’s attention to detail alongside other nice touches like interior organization baskets, LED lighting, and even a USB charging port.
Now you can top that off with smart remote controls managed via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to monitor and adjust running temps remotely from your phone (alongside the standard control panel). Truly, the Dometic has more than justified its price tag!
The only real downside I’m not a fan of is the unit’s 48-pound weight for a 55-liter fridge. Generally speaking, high-quality fridge freezers are on the heavier side. But 48 pounds nonetheless definitely puts a dent in its portable status.
But if this is a unit meant to mostly live in your RV rather than be lugged outside of it, that’s fiiiine. Dometic’s CFX5 line offers top-tier performance and energy efficiency, all backed by a beloved brand. Get the reliability you deserve!
Premium Pick
2. ARB — ZERO 47-Quart Fridge
- Capacity: 47 qt
- Temperature Range: -7.6°F to 50°F
- Power Source: 12V/24V DC / 100V-240V AC
- Dimensions: 22″ x 29″ x 19″
- Weight: 65 lbs
Let’s kick it up a notch to something a bit more premium. The ARB ZERO 47-Quart Fridge stands as a fantastic splurge buy for RVers and overlanders who want the BEST. It’s built for off-road and on-road adventures alike!
Now, in terms of features, the ARB ZERO still packs a punch. It might lack the ice-maker of the Dometic, but Bluetooth connectivity is still in full swing. Plus the fridge’s companion smartphone app lets you adjust and monitor the temperature from afar.
But let’s talk construction because that’s where the ARB ZERO really excels. Firstly, it’s built with premium insulation to maintain its cool WITH reduced power consumption on long trips. Moreover, the fridge is designed with rugged environments in mind, boasting exceptional durability, reinforced corners, and shock resistance for bumpy, unsealed conditions.
Now, as a splurge buy, this model is expensive. The ARB ZERO clocks in at a higher price than many other 47-quart fridges. And, of course, not all RVers (particularly budget travelers) will need all this rugged resilience the fridge offers.
But for a portable fridge freezer with longevity and performance, this fridge is in a class of its own! If you don’t need a fridge at quite this level, then I have more budget models coming up that are just as equipped for making sure your food stays cold. (As well as even heavier-duty fridges too!)
Otherwise, if you’re more of a buy-it-for-life nomad when it comes to your RV gear, the ARB ZERO is a worthy investment!
Budget Buy
3. BougeRV 12V 30 Quart (28L) Portable Refrigerator
- Capacity: 30 qt
- Temperature Range: -7°F to 50°F
- Power Source: 12V/24V DC / 100V-240V AC
- Dimensions: 15.5″ x 22.7″ x 12.6″
- Weight: 24 lbs
The budget model has arrived! BougeRV’s 30-Quart Portable Refrigerator merges supreme affordability with solid performance on a budget. As a more compact unit, it’s also a great fit for different classes of RVs with more limited space like small trailers, campervans, or even cars (if you’re lame).
Despite its lower price, the budget BougeRV does NOT skimp on performance. The efficient compressor technology cools quickly and is able to reach freezing temperatures without a hitch, even in hot conditions. That’s combined with three-level battery protection and quiet ~45 dB operations for peace of mind in more ways than one!
Even better, this fridge emphasizes low power consumption. This is particularly useful as a fridge aimed at lower-end lifestyles, as there’s a decent chance you’ll be running it on a 12V system. As such, it’s an efficient fit for battery and solar electrical setups.
But to keep prices down Bouge has also limited the fridge’s capacity. At 30 quarts, it’s realistically more suited for solo travelers and casual RVers on shorter weekend trips. Road-faring families will have to look elsewhere for their perfect gadget!
However, I have historically been a solo traveler. I can confirm that 30 quarts are definitely enough to get you by, particularly if you’re strategic. For all my motor-homies seeking budget prices and compact sizings, bag yo’self a Bouge!
Best High-Capacity Cooler
4. Dometic — CFX5-95L DZ Electric Cooler
- Capacity: 100 qt
- Temperature Range: -7°F to 68°F
- Power Source: 12V/24V DC / 100V-240V AC
- Dimensions: 37.9″ x 20.9″ x 18.6″
- Weight: 65 lbs
So, the next few fridge-freezers all come from Dometic’s CFX5 series again. They have similar performance, features, and value (with some small differences). However, each has different sizings for RVers with different needs.
The Dometic CFX5-95L is the high-capacity, dual-zone behemoth for big families and big eaters! As the highest capacity fridge on this list with 100 quarts of volume, it’s perfect for those who need serious storage on long trips. There is A LOT of room for extra food in this beast.
The CFX5’s smart controls and USB charging port are still on display here (although no ice-maker sadly). And the CFX5-95L also includes those removable baskets and dividers but in a dual-zone setup for proper fridge-freezer compartmentalization. In such a large unit, this is essential for maintaining your supplies. Plus, it all comes with that Dometic guarantee of quality!
But that larger stature is the fridge’s double-edged sword. It’s big and heavy so you need to ensure that it fits in your rig. The CFX5-95L is unlikely to suit smaller RVers and solo travelers’ needs.
But, well, if you looked at the 55IM and thought “Dayuuum… if only it was twice as big”… Well, lucky you! For maximum storage and dependability, you won’t do better than the Dometic CFX5-95L.
Best Low-Capacity Cooler
5. Dometic — CFX5-25L Electric Cooler
- Capacity: 26 qt
- Temperature Range: -7°F to 68°F
- Power Source: 12V/24V DC / 100V-240V AC
- Dimensions: 13.5″ x 22.4″ x 16.5″
- Weight: 30.4 lbs
Solo travelers, weekend warriors, intermittent fasters… Here’s the Dometic for you! The mega-portable CFX5-25L sits at a smaller stature and capacity for the humble road-warriors of less excess.
You know the score by now. For features, we have…
- No ice-maker…
- But plenty of internal organization
- Smart controls…
- And that convenient charging port…
All glazed off with Dometic’s promise of quality, efficiency, and top-shelf cooling!
Now, if you need more than the limited 26 quarts, I’d refer you back to the previous Dometic units. This limited-space CFX5 model is best for low-maintenance solo travelers rather than all those family-friendly easy-to-make RV meals. And as far as pricing goes, you could also consider the BougeRV instead for a cheaper compact portable fridge freezer.
But if you want a top-of-the-line compact portable fridge, the CFX5-25L delivers in spades. At this point, if you’re not sold on their competitive placing in the market, I don’t know what else to say to convince you…
They’re on this list five times for a reason!
Best-on-the-Go
6. Anker SOLIX Everfrost 2 40-Liter Battery-Powered Cooler
- Capacity: 42 qt
- Temperature Range: -4°F to 68°F
- Power Source: 12V DC / 110V AC / 299Wh battery
- Dimensions: 18.1” x 40” × 19.7”
- Weight: 69 lbs
Here’s another mobile and compact cooler to rival the CFX3 25. The SOLIX EverFrost 2 40-Liter presents a fantastic solution for RVers keeping cold on the move. Sure, RVers are always on the move… But this portable fridge freezer will serve you well on ALL the outdoor activities!
The EverFrost houses a 288Wh auxiliary battery built for powering the cooler for up to 52 hours on a single charge. Additionally, it also includes both AC and DC cords for charging the battery and further supports solar connections. This gives you a lot of leeway when it comes to lugging the fridge out for camping, fishing, and other outdoorsy shenanigans. (Did somebody say picnics!?)
Now, the fridge is designed with portability in mind (with one caveat). Specifically, the Anker EverFrost comes equipped with ergonomic handles and wheels for easy transport between sites.
But that caveat? Unfortunately, this fridge is a heavy boy compared to models like the BougeRV and smaller CFX3 units. Granted, a large portion of this comes from the battery, which enables the cooler’s portability. As such, it’s a bit of a cost-benefit analysis but worth considering nonetheless (plus the battery is detachable).
But, with those roller wheels, it’s essentially like dragging around a suitcase that cools your beer and snacks! As far as dedicated in-RV compact options go, the BougeRV and CFX3 are likely better fits. But if you need a mobile cooling solution for all outdoor itineraries, the EverFrost will no doubt catch your wandering eye.
Best Console Cooler
7. Dometic CCF-T Ford F-150/Super Duty/Expedition Center Console Refrigerator
- Capacity: 8 qt
- Temperature Range: ~37°F (factory-set)
- Power Source: 12V DC
- Dimensions: 14.6” x 15.7” × 15”
- Weight: 15 lbs
Ok, so now I have a very cool niche product from you. From our good friend Dometic comes their CCF-T Ford Center Console Refridgerator. This baby doesn’t just cool your drinks… It integrates seamlessly into the center console of your vehicle.
Specifically, the fridge integrates into the…
- Ford F-150 (2015-2020 models)
- Ford Super Duty (2017 and newer models)
- Ford Expedition (2018 and newer models)
So you’ll need to be driving one of those beasts to enjoy this fridge’s excellence. But if you are, then you get convenience and innovation in one nifty package! And the installation process is super easy too with no additional wiring necessary.
The center console fridge runs on compressor-based cooling. This keeps things whisper-quiet, eco-efficient, and powerful. I am also quite a fan of the addition of dual USB charging ports into the cooler. This ensures you don’t lose access to your center console’s on-the-road charging capability post-installation and can stay plugged in (and cold!).
The big issue here is that you NEED one of the above models to use this fridge. This counts out most RVers unless they’re towing their motorhome using a Ford vehicle. (Although these vehicles are more than equipped for towing travel trailers or fifth wheels.) It’s also a very limited-capacity fridge more meant for snacks and drinks when driving than your actual food for a camping trip.
But hey. If you’re a fan of Ford and iced beverages on long drives, this console fridge is a no-brainer! You might still need an additional portable fridge freezer to compensate… (May I suggest another Dometic – the CFX3 perhaps?)
But having a bar fridge upfront in the cockpit with you is, well, just plain awesome. Get one and ride in style!
Best for Yeti Power Stations
8. Goal Zero Alta 50 12-Volt Fridge
- Capacity: 56 qt
- Temperature Range: -4°F to 68°F
- Power Source: 12V/24V DC / 100V-240V AC / Solar (with Yeti Power Station)
- Dimensions: 14.1″ x 20″ x 11.8″
- Weight: 54 lbs
Ready for another niche product? Owners of Yeti Power Stations, I have the fridge for you!
The Goal Zero Alta 50 is the perfect match for adventurers who rely on Yeti systems. This fridge is optimized for seamless integration with Yeti stations, cementing its suitability for boondocking RVers who are going off-grid and are already packing the electrical cryptid system.
Above all, the Goal Zero Alta promotes excellent energy efficiency. As well as Yeti stations, it’s also a brilliant pairing with solar panel setups thanks to its low consumption. If you’re jacked into either of these systems, you’re essentially looking at indefinite cooling out in the boonies!
Otherwise, it’s a robust and well-performing fridge. There isn’t a heap worth mentioning if you DON’T use Yeti or solar setups. Any of the previous Dometics or ARB models offer way more features overall…
But they’re also way more pricey overall! For a great, low-consumption, mid-range fridge, the Goal Zero Alta is your cool operator. And if you happen to be camping off-grid with Yeti or solar systems on the regular, your drinks will never run dry.
Best Dual-Zone Fridge-Freezer
9. BougeRV Rocky 41QT Dual Zone 12V Portable Fridge
- Capacity: 41 qt
- Temperature Range: -4°F to 68°F
- Power Source: 12V/24V DC / 100V-240V AC
- Dimensions: 17.7″ x 28″ x 15.8″
- Weight: 51 lbs
Alrighty! To finish it off, we have the BougeRV Rocky 41QT. I’m excited to throw this fridge at you (not literally) as it’s the only product on the list with dual-zone functionality!
How’s this work? Well, basically, you have more control over separately setting the temperature for the fridge and freezer. (As opposed to running the whole thing at one uniform setting.) All you do is slide that divider in to separate the compartments and you have a full-blown mini fridge done RV style!
Otherwise, it’s a durable product with BougeRV’s more budget-friendly pricing. Metal casings, remote app-based control, and a dedicated Eco-mode for lower consumption are some of its other premium features.
There is a drawback to consider if you are after the BEST portable dual-zone fridge freezer. To keep prices down, BougeRV has relegated to the divider system. This is a shame as many high-end dual-zone models (like Dometic’s) actually have two separately-opening lids for the compartments.
Annnnnd those premium models also cost A LOT more. For a budget-geared fridge with freezing and cooling both on offer, the BougeRV Rocky 41QT is the last but certainly not least fridge on the list!
Performance Tested
Alrighty! Let’s talk consumer guarantees.
All the units on this list are rigorously tested for durability, efficiency, and overall performance in real-world conditions. That’s the bottom line.
These fridges are built to withstand the trials of RV living and life on the road. They’ve been both stress-tested and made to withstand…
- Bumpy roads and off-roads
- Temperature fluctuations and extreme weather
- And off-grid power challenges and disruptions
Furthermore, each model is rated to maintain a precise temp. With a couple of exceptions, they’re also all able to reach as low as -4°F (or lower).
When investing in a high-end portable fridge freezer, you’re not just buying a regular ol’ cooler. You’re buying the testing process. You’re buying genuine, reliable products you can trust.
You’re buying quality customer assurance complete with extensive warranties that typically range from 1 to 5 years. Brands like Dometic and ARB offer industry-leading guarantees, ensuring peace of mind no matter the units. (For example, ARB’s warranty policy lists a three-year period; meanwhile, our budget friends BougeRV offer a two-year warranty.)
In short, there’s nothing to fear. These portable fridge freezers are 100% made to last, no matter the landscape.
Summing Up: What’s the Best Portable Fridge-Freezer for the Adventures?
To conclude, chill out, motor-homie! My whole point is that you can’t go wrong with any of these products.
That said, I still have my favorites. For the BEST portable fridge freezer for most traveling types, the Dometic CFX5-55L IM Electric Cooler still steals the show. Robust design, guarantees, and features cement this as a worthwhile investment.
Alternatively, for anybody lugging a lot of mouths to feed, I’m actually going to recommend the beastier Dometic CFX5-95L DZ Electric Cooler. It’s very pricey, sure. But considering how long it will last and the conditions it’s ready for, it’s an easy buy.
Otherwise, scope out the other choices! I’ve hand-crafted this list by dipping into my deep passion for snacking on the road. I promise the product for you is in here.
Whether it’s for on-the-go or off-the-road and out-in-the-sticks, these fridge freezers are built for the pressure. Deserts and blizzards alike cower at the sight of their compressors.
They WILL keep your food cold. Your snacks WILL languish gloriously in their condensation. And after all, isn’t that what life on the road is all about?
Banging feeds with even more banging sunsets. 🙂
