Summary:1. Thermoelectric Camping Fridge
Cheapest option, most quality units are under $300.
Generally Ice machine more compact ...
1. Thermoelectric Camping Fridge
Cheapest option, most quality units are under $300.
Generally
Ice machine more compact than other camping fridge options
Uses two power sources: 12v and 110v
Operates as more of a cooler than a fridge (keeping an interior temp 35-40 degrees lower than ambient air temperature), but can also be used to keep food warm as well
Though most have a power consumption between 3-5 Amps, because they are inherently less efficient (especially when outside temps are above 80 degrees) they run almost constantly creating an even higher net power usage as compared to other types of camping fridge.
2. Absorption Camping Fridge
Typically can be purchased for under $500
Use three power sources: 12v DC, 110v AC, and Propane Gas
Extremely efficient on Propane - we once ran our 30+ year old Dometic 4 cu ft unit in our Sunrader RV for over 3 weeks using a single small 11lb tank on one of our trips out west
Very inefficient on 12v DC power, really not even a viable option if you’re not running the vehicle because it will deplete your battery in no time
Generally no accurate temperature adjustment/setting
Must be kept almost perfectly level to operate correctly, and must be vented to the outside to avoid carbon monoxide buildup when operating on propane
Usually don’t cool well when temps are above 80 - keeping an interior temp about 30 degrees lower than ambient. On more than one occasion we found ourselves sticking ice bags in the units in our old RVs to help keep things cool when travelling in the heat of summer
3. Compressor Camping Fridge
Expensive, cost $500-$1800 depending on size/model/manufacturer
Can operate effectively up to 30 degrees off-level - this is a huge benefit if wild camping or overlanding through uneven terrain
Cools effectively to below freezing, despite high ambient temps
Most have accurate temperature adjustment controls, and some models even offer dual-zone temperature control - so one compartment can be a freezer and the other a fridge
Very energy efficient on 12v DC - most models consume an average of 1 Amp/hr once they reach operating temperature - and they can also be plugged into 110v power when you have access to shore power
They’re unaffected by the shaking and jostling of the off-road adventures and overland travel that get you to those picturesque camp spots
