Imagine this: You’re on a long road trip, the sun is beating down, and your car is getting hot. You desperately want a cold drink or a cool snack, but everything inside is warm. Frustrating, right? Finding a good plug-in car cooler can be a real challenge. There are so many different kinds, and it’s tough to know which one will actually keep your food and drinks perfectly chilled.
You want a cooler that works well without using too much electricity or being too noisy. Maybe you’re worried about it not being big enough or not keeping things cold enough for your camping trips or grocery runs. It’s a common problem, and we understand the struggle!
But don’t worry! By reading on, you’ll discover what makes a plug-in car cooler truly great. We’ll break down the important features to look for, compare different types, and give you tips to find the perfect one for your needs. Get ready to say goodbye to warm drinks and hello to refreshing coolness on every journey!
Our Top 5 Plug In Car Cooler Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Plug In Car Cooler Detailed Reviews
1. EUHOMY 12 Volt Refrigerator
Rating: 9.3/10
The EUHOMY 19QT Compressor Electric Cooler is a versatile portable refrigerator and freezer that’s perfect for your adventures. Whether you’re camping, traveling, or spending a day on the boat, this cooler keeps your food and drinks at the perfect temperature.
What We Like:
- It cools down super fast, going from warm to cold in just 15 minutes.
- You can control it from your phone using an app, which is really convenient.
- The lid seals tightly with magnets, so it stays cold for a long time.
- It has special protection to keep your car’s battery from draining.
- It runs very quietly, so it won’t disturb you.
- It’s built tough and can handle bumpy rides.
- You can use it at home with AC power or in your car with DC power.
- It comes with 2 years of tech support if you have questions.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 19-quart capacity might be a bit small for longer trips with multiple people.
This EUHOMY cooler is a fantastic option for anyone who needs reliable cooling on the go. Its smart features and durable design make it a great companion for any journey.
2. Ivation Electric Cooler & Warmer with Handle
Rating: 8.6/10
Say goodbye to lukewarm drinks and spoiled snacks! The Ivation Electric Cooler & Warmer is your ultimate companion for keeping food and drinks perfectly chilled or warm, no matter where your adventures take you. This portable thermoelectric fridge is designed for life on the go, making it ideal for everything from camping trips and road tours to picnics and backyard parties.
What We Like:
- Keeps food and drinks at the perfect temperature, either cold at 40°F or hot at 130°F.
- Generous 24L interior fits plenty of bottles, food, and even 2-liter soda bottles.
- Easy to switch between cooling and warming modes with a simple button.
- Includes adapters for both home (110V AC) and vehicle (12V DC) use, offering great flexibility.
- The interior is easy to clean and requires no ongoing maintenance.
- Its portable design with a handle makes it easy to carry.
What Could Be Improved:
- Performance is best when items are pre-chilled or pre-heated.
- Requires a power outlet for optimal temperature maintenance.
This Ivation cooler offers incredible versatility for anyone who loves to enjoy their food and drinks at the ideal temperature, whether they’re out in nature or simply entertaining at home. It’s a fantastic, convenient solution for all your portable chilling and warming needs.
3. WODHMIEY 15L Portable Electric Cooler Bag
Rating: 9.5/10
The WODHMIEY 15L Portable Electric Cooler Bag is your new best friend for keeping things cool on the go. This soft-sided cooler is designed to make your trips easier and your food and drinks stay fresh, no matter where your adventures take you.
What We Like:
- It’s super flexible and saves space. You can fit lots of things inside, even big items.
- This cooler is made for road trips. It holds up to 24 cans and fits nicely in your car. The zipper keeps everything secure.
- It cools things down fast! It uses a special chip to make things up to 46°F colder than the air around it. The thick insulation keeps it cold.
- It’s easy to carry. It has a shoulder strap, a handle, and extra pockets for your stuff. It’s not heavy, so anyone can take it along.
- You can use it for almost anything! Road trips, picnics, camping, or even just going to work. It keeps your snacks and drinks perfectly chilled.
What Could Be Improved:
- The cooling power depends on the outside temperature. It won’t make things ice-cold if it’s already very hot outside.
- It needs to be plugged into a 12V power source, so you can’t use it without a car or a compatible power adapter.
This WODHMIEY cooler is a fantastic choice for anyone who loves to travel or spend time outdoors. It offers great cooling power and convenience for all your outings.
4. 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 portable freezer that offers a convenient way to keep your food and drinks cold on the go. It’s designed for various vehicles, from trucks and RVs to campers and SUVs, making it ideal for road trips, camping, and tailgating. This fridge can also function as a freezer, reaching temperatures as low as -8℉, and can even be powered by AC at home.
What We Like:
- Fast cooling: It cools down to 32℉ in just 15 minutes and to -5℉ in 50 minutes using compressor technology.
- Energy efficient: It uses less than 36W on ECO mode and less than 1kWh per day even on MAX mode.
- Quiet operation: The noise level is only 45dB, ensuring a peaceful environment.
- Durable design: It has a shock-proof design that can handle a 30° inclination, perfect for off-road adventures.
- Battery protection: It features a 3-level voltage monitor to prevent draining your vehicle’s battery.
- Versatile power: It works with both 12/24V DC and 110~240V AC power.
- Included accessories: It comes with both DC and AC power cords, plus a user manual.
- Good support: BougeRV offers 2 years of tech support.
What Could Be Improved:
- Temperature range: While it can go down to -8℉, some users might want even colder freezing capabilities.
- Sunlight sensitivity: The product note warns against placing it in direct sunlight due to potential door deformation.
This BougeRV portable fridge is a solid choice for anyone needing reliable cooling on their adventures. Its features like fast cooling and battery protection make it a practical companion for any trip.
5. EUHOMY 12 Volt Refrigerator
Rating: 9.4/10
The EUHOMY 48QT Electric Cooler is a versatile and powerful portable refrigerator designed for all your adventures. Whether you’re camping, traveling in your truck, or just need extra cooling at home, this 12-volt fridge keeps your food and drinks perfectly chilled. It offers a wide temperature range, from a chilly -4℉ up to a refreshing 68℉, and boasts smart features like app control for easy management.
What We Like:
- It cools down super fast, going from warm to 32°F in just 15 minutes.
- You can control it from your phone using the handy app.
- It has two separate areas to keep different foods and prevent smells from mixing.
- The battery protection feature stops it from draining your car’s battery.
- It comes with adapters for both your car (12/24V DC) and home (100-240V AC).
- An internal light makes it easy to find things even in the dark.
- EUHOMY provides 2 years of tech support if you need help.
What Could Be Improved:
- The app could be a little more intuitive for some users.
- While portable, it’s still a sizable cooler, so carrying it long distances might be a bit much for some.
This EUHOMY cooler is a fantastic companion for anyone who needs reliable and convenient cooling on the go. Its smart features and robust performance make it a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts and road warriors alike.
Your Essential Guide to Choosing a Plug-In Car Cooler
Are you tired of warm drinks and spoiled snacks on road trips? A plug-in car cooler is your solution! These handy devices keep your food and drinks chilled, making any journey more enjoyable. Let’s explore what makes a great car cooler.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a plug-in car cooler, a few features stand out.
- Cooling Capacity: This tells you how cold the cooler can get. Look for coolers that can reach at least 30-40 degrees Fahrenheit below the outside temperature. Some can even get down to freezing!
- Capacity (Size): How much do you need to store? Coolers come in various sizes, from small personal coolers to larger ones that can hold a week’s worth of groceries for a family. Measure your trunk or desired storage space before buying.
- Power Source: Most plug-in car coolers use a 12-volt DC plug that fits into your car’s cigarette lighter socket. Some also come with an AC adapter, allowing you to use them at home or in a hotel room.
- Portability: Consider how easy it is to carry. Wheels and sturdy handles make a big difference, especially for larger coolers.
- Durability: You want a cooler that can withstand the bumps and shakes of travel.
Important Materials
The materials used in a car cooler affect its performance and how long it lasts.
- Exterior Casing: Most coolers have a durable plastic exterior. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is a good choice because it’s tough and resistant to impact.
- Insulation: This is crucial for keeping things cold. Look for thick, high-quality foam insulation. The thicker the insulation, the better it will hold the cold air inside.
- Lining: The inside lining should be easy to clean. Food-grade plastic is ideal.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make a car cooler great or not so great.
-
Improved Quality:
- Efficient Cooling System: A powerful thermoelectric cooling system works best.
- Good Sealing: A tight-fitting lid prevents cold air from escaping.
- Sturdy Hinges and Latches: These ensure the lid stays closed securely.
- Quiet Operation: Some coolers can be noisy. A quieter model is more pleasant to have in the car.
-
Reduced Quality:
- Thin Insulation: This means the cooler won’t stay cold for long.
- Flimsy Construction: A cooler that feels cheap might break easily.
- Poorly Designed Lid: If the lid doesn’t seal well, cold air will escape.
- Limited Cooling Power: If it can’t get cold enough, it won’t keep your food safe.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a plug-in car cooler is simple and opens up many possibilities.
- Road Trips: Keep drinks and snacks cold for long drives. No more stopping for expensive convenience store drinks!
- Camping and Picnics: Transport perishable food safely to your campsite or picnic spot.
- Grocery Shopping: Keep frozen items cold on your way home from the store, especially during hot weather.
- Sporting Events: Bring chilled beverages and food to cheer on your favorite team.
- Mobile Work: If you work from your car, you can keep lunches and drinks fresh throughout the day.
A plug-in car cooler is a worthwhile investment for anyone who spends time on the road or enjoys outdoor activities. Choose wisely, and enjoy your perfectly chilled adventures!
Frequently Asked Questions about Plug-In Car Coolers
Q: What is a plug-in car cooler?
A: A plug-in car cooler is a portable refrigerator that plugs into your car’s power outlet to keep your food and drinks cold.
Q: How do plug-in car coolers work?
A: Most use thermoelectric cooling. This technology uses electricity to move heat from inside the cooler to the outside, making the inside cold.
Q: Can a plug-in car cooler freeze food?
A: Some high-powered models can freeze food, but most are designed to chill items to a safe temperature, typically around 30-40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Q: Will a plug-in car cooler drain my car battery?
A: If you run the cooler with the car engine off for extended periods, it can drain your battery. It’s best to use it when the car is running or plug it into a wall outlet when not in use.
Q: How much food can a car cooler hold?
A: This depends on the size. They range from small coolers that hold a few drinks to larger ones that can hold a week’s worth of groceries for a small family.
Q: Are plug-in car coolers noisy?
A: Some can be a bit noisy due to the fan, but many newer models are designed to operate quietly.
Q: Can I use a plug-in car cooler indoors?
A: Many models come with an AC adapter, so you can use them in your home, hotel room, or anywhere with a standard wall outlet.
Q: How long does it take for a car cooler to get cold?
A: It usually takes a few hours for a car cooler to reach its optimal temperature, especially if it’s already warm inside.
Q: Are plug-in car coolers better than traditional coolers with ice?
A: They are more convenient because you don’t need to buy or replace ice. They also maintain a more consistent temperature.
Q: What is the average price of a plug-in car cooler?
A: Prices can vary widely, from around $50 for basic models to $200 or more for larger, more advanced ones.
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.
Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.