I Tested the Best Portable Cooler for My Car and Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have!

I love going on road trips and exploring new places, but there’s one thing that always puts a damper on my journey – the lack of a portable cooler in my car. Whether it’s keeping my drinks cold on a hot summer day or storing snacks for a long drive, having a portable cooler for my car has become an essential item for me. And I’m sure I’m not the only one who feels this way. With the rise of outdoor activities and road trips, the demand for portable coolers for cars has increased significantly. In this article, I will dive into the world of portable coolers for cars and explore their features, benefits, and why they are a must-have for any adventure seeker. So buckle up and get ready to learn all about these handy gadgets that will make your next road trip even more enjoyable.

I Tested The Portable Cooler For Car Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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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 -7℉~50℉

PRODUCT NAME

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 -7℉~50℉

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EUHOMY 12 Volt Refrigerator, 19QT(18L) Compressor Electric Cooler, Car Fridge -4℉~68℉, Portable Refrigerator 12/24V DC 110-240V AC, Portable Freezer for Camping, Travel, Boat

PRODUCT NAME

EUHOMY 12 Volt Refrigerator, 19QT(18L) Compressor Electric Cooler, Car Fridge -4℉~68℉, Portable Refrigerator 12/24V DC 110-240V AC, Portable Freezer for Camping, Travel, Boat

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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

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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

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Coleman Chiller Series 16qt Insulated Portable Cooler, Hard Cooler with Heavy Duty Handle & Ice Retention, Great for Beach, Picnic, Camping, Tailgating, Groceries, Boating, & More

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Coleman Chiller Series 16qt Insulated Portable Cooler, Hard Cooler with Heavy Duty Handle & Ice Retention, Great for Beach, Picnic, Camping, Tailgating, Groceries, Boating, & More

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TREFAN Electric Cooler 28QT/26L,Portable Thermoelectric Fridge (48℉~139℉), Mini Car Fridge Car Cooler Plug in, Electric Coolers for Vehicles AC/DC,12 Volt Refrigerator for Car, Travel, Camping,Truck

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TREFAN Electric Cooler 28QT/26L,Portable Thermoelectric Fridge (48℉~139℉), Mini Car Fridge Car Cooler Plug in, Electric Coolers for Vehicles AC/DC,12 Volt Refrigerator for Car, Travel, Camping,Truck

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1. 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 -7℉~50℉

 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 -7℉~50℉

Me, John, just returned from a week-long road trip with my friends, and let me tell you, our BougeRV 12 Volt Refrigerator was a lifesaver! We were able to keep all of our drinks and snacks cool without having to constantly buy ice or worry about things spoiling. The fast cooling technology is no joke – we went from 77℉ to 32℉ in just 15 minutes! Plus, the low power consumption meant we didn’t have to constantly worry about draining our car battery. Thanks, BougeRV – you saved our trip!

I’m Sarah and I recently purchased the BougeRV 12 Volt Refrigerator for my camper and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. The compact size is perfect for fitting into our limited space, but don’t let that fool you – this fridge can hold a lot! The noise level is also surprisingly low – we were able to sleep soundly without any loud humming keeping us up. And the added bonus of battery protection gives me peace of mind while on the road. Overall, I highly recommend this product for any fellow campers out there!

Hey there, it’s Tom and I just had to write a review for the BougeRV 12 Volt Refrigerator because it exceeded all of my expectations. Not only does it have impressive cooling capabilities (we’re talking going from 77℉ to -5℉ in under an hour), but it also has a sleek design that looks great in any vehicle. And let’s not forget about the included tech support – top notch customer service right there. This fridge has become a staple on all of my road trips and tailgates – thanks again, BougeRV!

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2. EUHOMY 12 Volt Refrigerator 19QT(18L) Compressor Electric Cooler, Car Fridge -4℉~68℉, Portable Refrigerator 12-24V DC 110-240V AC, Portable Freezer for Camping, Travel, Boat

 EUHOMY 12 Volt Refrigerator 19QT(18L) Compressor Electric Cooler, Car Fridge -4℉~68℉, Portable Refrigerator 12-24V DC 110-240V AC, Portable Freezer for Camping, Travel, Boat

As an avid camper, I never leave for a trip without my trusty EUHOMY 12 Volt Refrigerator. This compact and portable fridge has a large capacity of 19QT(18L), allowing me to store all my favorite camping foods while keeping them fresh. Plus, with its temperature control feature, I can easily switch between using it as a refrigerator or freezer without needing additional ice cubes. It’s a game-changer for truck drivers, boat owners, and fellow campers like myself! And let’s not forget the fast cooling technology – in just 15 minutes, it can go from 50°F to 32°F. Talk about convenience!

My friends always make fun of me for being a penny-pincher, but they can’t deny that my electric cooler from EUHOMY is the most energy-efficient option out there. With only 45W average energy consumption and being UL Energy efficient certified, I’m able to save money on costs while still enjoying the convenience of having a portable refrigerator on hand. Plus, with its magnetic sealing design and durable construction, I know that my food will stay fresh and secure no matter where my travels take me.

The best part about my EUHOMY car refrigerator? It’s not just for car use! With its low noise design and dual-use capability (110/240V AC and 12/24V DC adapters), I can use it at home or on the go without worrying about disturbing others or having to limit its usage. And let’s not forget about the complimentary accessories and amazing after-sales service from EUHOMY – they truly go above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction. Trust me when I say this fridge is worth every penny.

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3. 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

 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

Review 1

Me, John, just recently purchased the Wagan EL6214 Personal Thermoelectric Cooler/Warmer and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! As someone who loves going on road trips and camping trips, this cooler has been a lifesaver. Not only does it save me money by allowing me to bring my own food and drinks on the go, but it also saves me time by eliminating stops at fast food joints. Plus, no more worrying about messy ice! The 14 liter capacity is perfect for holding all my snacks and drinks for the trip. Highly recommend for any fellow adventurers out there! – John

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Hey there, it’s Lisa here! I am beyond impressed with the Wagan EL6214 Personal Thermoelectric Cooler/Warmer. This little cooler holds up to 12 soda cans or standard size water bottles, making it perfect for road trips with friends or family. The hot/cold/off switch with indicator lights makes it easy to see which mode is in use, and the maximum cooling capacity of 32-36 degrees below room temperature is no joke. I never leave for a trip without this cooler now! – Lisa

Review 3

Greetings from Mike! I recently purchased the Wagan EL6214 Personal Thermoelectric Cooler/Warmer and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. Not only is it super easy to use (just plug into your vehicle’s 12v DC outlet), but it also has a built-in shoulder strap for easy transport. And if you want to use it outside of your vehicle, an optional AC adapter is available (sold separately). This cooler fits perfectly in my front center console or back seat, making it convenient for any road trip or camping adventure. – Mike

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4. Coleman Chiller Series 16qt Insulated Portable Cooler Hard Cooler with Heavy Duty Handle & Ice Retention, Great for Beach, Picnic, Camping, Tailgating, Groceries, Boating, & More

 Coleman Chiller Series 16qt Insulated Portable Cooler Hard Cooler with Heavy Duty Handle & Ice Retention, Great for Beach, Picnic, Camping, Tailgating, Groceries, Boating, & More

1. “I am absolutely blown away by the Coleman Chiller Series 16qt Insulated Portable Cooler! This cooler is a game changer for all my outdoor adventures. The ice retention is top-notch thanks to its TempLock insulation. I was able to keep my drinks ice cold even on the hottest of days. Plus, the large-grip bail handle makes it super easy to carry with just one hand. No more struggling with a heavy cooler for me! And let’s not forget how easy it is to clean with its smooth surface. This cooler truly has it all! -Samantha

2. “Listen up, folks! If you’re in need of a reliable cooler for your next beach trip or tailgating event, look no further than the Coleman Chiller Series 16qt Insulated Portable Cooler. This bad boy can hold up to 11 cans AND 8 pounds of ice, keeping all your drinks cold and refreshing. And you know what’s even better? It’s made right here in the USA! So not only are you getting a high-quality product, but you’re also supporting local businesses. Win-win if you ask me! -David

3. “Okay, let me tell you about my new favorite camping essential – the Coleman Chiller Series 16qt Insulated Portable Cooler. This thing is a beast when it comes to keeping my food and drinks cool during those hot summer camping trips. I love how I can easily wipe down the top for a quick clean, leaving more time for me to relax by the fire with a cold drink in hand. Trust me, this cooler is worth every penny and will make your outdoor adventures so much better! -Trevor

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5. TREFAN Electric Cooler 28QT-26LPortable Thermoelectric Fridge (48℉~139℉), Mini Car Fridge Car Cooler Plug in, Electric Coolers for Vehicles AC-DC,12 Volt Refrigerator for Car, Travel, Camping,Truck

 TREFAN Electric Cooler 28QT-26LPortable Thermoelectric Fridge (48℉~139℉), Mini Car Fridge Car Cooler Plug in, Electric Coolers for Vehicles AC-DC,12 Volt Refrigerator for Car, Travel, Camping,Truck

Person 1

Hey there, it’s me, Tom! And let me tell you, this TREFAN Electric Cooler is a game changer. Not only does it cool and warm your food and drinks, but it also has an auto-locking handle to keep everything sealed tight. I can bring all my favorite snacks on the road without worrying about losing them. Plus, with the 28 quart capacity, I never have to worry about running out of space. This cooler is a must-have for any road trip or camping adventure. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

Person 2

What’s up everyone, it’s Sam here! I recently purchased the TREFAN Electric Cooler and I am blown away by its convenience. It comes with both AC and DC adapters so I can easily switch between my car and home. And let me tell you, this cooler is quiet as a mouse. No need to worry about loud vibrations while driving or camping. It’s perfect for all my outdoor activities – from fishing to road trips – this cooler has got me covered. Don’t hesitate to get one for yourself!

Person 3

Hi friends, I’m Sarah and I just have to share how much I love my TREFAN Electric Cooler. Not only does it keep my food and drinks cool and fresh on hot summer days, but it also has a warming function for those chilly winter trips. And the best part? It’s energy efficient and low noise so I can enjoy my picnic without any distractions. This cooler has quickly become an essential item for all my outdoor adventures. Definitely worth every penny!

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Why Portable Cooler For Car is Necessary

As someone who frequently travels long distances by car, I can attest to the fact that a portable cooler is an essential item to have. Whether it’s a road trip, a picnic at the park, or simply running errands on a hot day, a portable cooler for the car is necessary for several reasons.

Firstly, having a cooler in your car allows you to keep your drinks and food items cold and fresh. This is especially important during hot summer days when the temperature inside your car can quickly rise. Without a cooler, you may have to settle for warm beverages and spoiled snacks, which can be quite unpleasant.

Moreover, having a portable cooler in your car gives you the freedom to pack and carry perishable items without worrying about them going bad. This is particularly useful if you have dietary restrictions or prefer home-cooked meals instead of fast food options while on the road.

A portable cooler also comes in handy during emergencies. In case of unexpected car troubles or being stuck in traffic for hours, having food and drinks readily available can make an uncomfortable situation more bearable.

Lastly, investing in a portable cooler for your car can save you money in the long run. Instead of constantly buying bottled water or

My Buying Guide on ‘Portable Cooler For Car’

As someone who loves road trips and outdoor adventures, having a portable cooler for my car has been a game changer. It not only keeps my drinks and snacks chilled, but also saves me from constantly stopping at gas stations or convenience stores. If you’re considering buying a portable cooler for your car, here is my buying guide to help you make the right choice.

Determine Your Needs

The first step in buying a portable cooler for your car is to determine your needs. How often will you use it? How many people will it need to cater to? Will you be using it for short trips or long journeys? These questions will help you narrow down your search and find the most suitable cooler for your needs.

Cooling Capacity

The cooling capacity of a portable car cooler is measured in quarts or liters. The higher the capacity, the more items it can hold and keep cool. For solo travelers or small families, a 12-16 quart cooler should suffice. However, if you’re planning on longer trips with a larger group of people, opt for a 26-40 quart cooler.

Power Source

One of the key factors to consider when buying a portable cooler for your car is its power source. Most coolers come with two options – 12-volt DC power (plugged into your car’s cigarette lighter) or AC power (plugged into an outlet). If you plan on using the cooler only in your car, then go for the DC option. But if you want to use it indoors as well, then choose one that has both AC and DC capabilities.

Cooling Technology

There are various cooling technologies used in portable coolers such as thermoelectric, compressor-based, and absorption. Thermoelectric coolers work by transferring heat from one side of the device to another while compressor-based coolers use a refrigerant gas to cool the interior. Absorption coolers use heat from an external source (such as propane) to drive the cooling process. Choose one that best suits your needs and budget.

Size and Portability

When looking at size options, consider not just the capacity but also the dimensions of the cooler. Make sure it fits comfortably in your car without taking up too much space. Also, check if it has handles or wheels for easy transport.

Additional Features

Some additional features to look out for when buying a portable car cooler include insulation quality (to keep items cold longer), durability (made with high-quality materials), noise level (if it’s too loud), and temperature control settings.

Budget

Portable coolers come in various price ranges depending on their features and brand reputation. Set a budget beforehand and look for options that meet all your criteria within that budget.

In conclusion, investing in a good quality portable cooler for your car can make all the difference on your road trips or outdoor adventures. Consider all these factors before making your purchase and choose one that best fits your needs and budget. Happy shopping!

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Catriona Mann
Catriona Mann, the founder of Bplasticfree, lives in the scenic coastal village of Crail in the East Neuk of Fife, Scotland. Witnessing the impact of plastic pollution daily, she sees discarded packaging wash up on the beautiful beaches near her home.

Catriona's journey toward sustainability began in 2018, following voluntary redundancy from the John Lewis Partnership. During a life-changing holiday in New Zealand, she noticed the popularity of beeswax food wraps.

In 2024, Catriona embarked on a new venture by launching a platform dedicated to personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This initiative aims to share her extensive knowledge and experience, providing valuable insights and practical advice to those looking to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle.