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Best Camping Fridge Australia: Tested for Caravan, Off-Grid & Big Lap Travel

Last Updated: July 28, 2026 . By Annette . Buying Guides

This post may contain compensated links. For more information, read our disclaimer here.

What is the best camping fridge?
Best-camping-fridge-review

There is no single best camping fridge for everyone. The right camping fridge depends on how you travel, how long you stay off-grid, your power setup, available space, and how you plan to use it day to day.

This guide explains what actually matters for Australian conditions so you can choose the right fridge for your setup.

Asking any caravanning and camping enthusiast, “What is the best camping fridge?” will likely start a lengthy campfire debate. The conversation can be as passionate as Baby Q vs Ziggy BBQ and Landcruisers vs Patrols.

Most likely, camping fridges or the best 4WD fridges in Australia are – an Engel fridge and a Waeco fridge (now Dometic), so Engel vs Dometic will go head-to-head. And possibly, because they are the best portable fridge freezer, Bushman vs Engel.

We’ve used several camping fridges, including a portable chest 3-way gas camping fridge and our current drawer fridge. I had one of the best car fridges (reportedly) for my work in my boot. Keep reading to find out if it is or not!

Planning A Lap Of Australia

Choosing the right camping fridge is just one part of preparing your setup. Read my complete guide to planning a lap of Australia so you avoid costly mistakes before you leave.

Many experienced caravanners, campers, 4WDers, and boaties have owned camping fridges previously. They will probably tell you how their fridge “has never missed a beat, and they have had it for years,” plus other comments that fiercely promote their favourite brand.

Experienced caravanners and campers generally seek upgrades to the best 12 volt fridge freezer, mainly for upgrades to the camping fridge brands’ current technology. These can include an app to control the camping fridge freezer’s temperature and USB slots to charge your phone and other camping accessories.

Buying the best camping fridge or the best camping fridge freezer will be one of the best camping gear investments you will make as they last for years.

If you are new to caravanning, camping or 4wding or are a seasoned camper, you are in the right place to research the best camper fridge for your lifestyle, needs and rig.

To help save you confusion and time, we have done hours of research for you. We have compiled the best camping fridge comparisons so you can easily choose your new one.


Best upright option for canopies

To save even more confusion and time, click here for our TOP PICK for the best camping fridge

**Warning: our top pick could be controversial! 


Best for long-term off-grid travel

See our Second TOP PICK here! (You’ll see why it’s different to our TOP PICK!)


Who This Guide Is For

This guide is for:
• Caravanners, campers and 4WD travellers in Australia
• People planning longer trips or a Big Lap
• Anyone overwhelmed by brand opinions and Facebook debates
• Buyers who want reliability, efficiency and real-world performance

What Actually Matters When Choosing A Camping Fridge In Australia

Power draw and efficiency (especially off-grid)
If you free camp or travel remotely, power use matters more than capacity. A fridge that runs efficiently will keep food cold without constantly chasing solar or flattening batteries overnight. This becomes critical in heat, shade, or cloudy conditions.

Weight and how it affects towing and GVM
Fridges are heavier than most people expect, especially once loaded with food and drinks. Every kilo counts when you’re managing GVM, axle loads, and towing balance. A heavier fridge can quietly tip a setup from comfortable to overloaded.

Fridge type: upright vs chest vs drawer
Upright fridges are easy to access but lose cold air every time the door opens. Chest fridges are more efficient but harder to dig through. Drawer fridges sit lower, improve weight distribution, and are convenient, but limit how much bulky food you can store.

Ease of access and day-to-day usability
Think about how often you’ll open it and where it’s mounted. A fridge that’s awkward to reach, blocks drawers, or needs unloading to access items quickly becomes annoying on long trips. Small usability issues add up fast when you live on the road.

Reliability on corrugations and in heat
Australian touring means vibration, dust, and extreme temperatures. A fridge needs to hold temperature on corrugated roads and keep working when ambient heat climbs. Reliability matters more than features when you’re hundreds of kilometres from help.

Rather than ranking fridges by popularity, the table below compares options so you can match a fridge to your travel style, space and power setup.

BrandWeightCapacity (Litres)DimensionsCheck PriceFeaturesRating
Bushman Upright Camping Fridge
Bushman Upright Fridge review
26kgs130LW525 x H750 x D550mmCHECK PRICE6L Freezer
Internal LED light
Reversible door
Adjustable shelves
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Bushman Portable Expandable Fridge
Bushman-portable camping fridge review
22.5kgsUp to 52LL690 x W385 x H390mmCHECK PRICEExpandable & adjustable to 35/42/45/52L
Steel cabinet
3 cooling zones
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Engel 57L Twin Door Fridge Freezer
Engel portable camping fridge review
34kgs57LL490 x W790 x H441mmCHECK PRICETwin door design
Separate fridge/freezer
Reversible door
Removable baskets
Large lockable door latches
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dometic 55 Fridge
Dometic 55 portable camping fridge review
20.7kgs55LL720 x W455 x H480mmCHECK PRICEHeavy-duty lightweight Frame
3-stage battery protection system
Temp control via App
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dometic Upright
Dometic Upright camping fridge review
31kgs135LW525 x H815 x D620mmCHECK PRICE3-way fridge/freezer
Completely silent operation
Replaceable door panels to suit
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dune 75L Fridge FreezerDune 75L Fridge Freezer Review27.8kgs75LL900 x W485 x H460mmCHECK PRICELG compressor
Internal LED light
Bluetooth app
Bidirectional removable lid
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dometic CFX5 95DZ Fridge/FreezerDometic Dual zone portable camping fridge review29.5kgs94LL962 x W530 x H472mmCHECK PRICEUSB Port
Interior light
Detachable lid
Bluetooth & WiFi
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
MyCoolman 69L FridgeCoolman 60L camping fridge review27.2kgs69LL732 x W456 x H555mmCHECK PRICETwo way opening lid
USB port and charger
Bluetooth app
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dometic 45Dometic CFX portable camping fridge review19.4kgs46LL694 x W398 x H476mmCHECK PRICEBattery protection system
High-Res Colour Display
Heavy-duty yet lightweight
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
EcoFlow GLACIER
EcoFlow GLACIER Portable Refrigerator review
23kgs38LL776 x W385 x H445mmCHECK PRICEIce maker
USB Port
Bluetooth & WiFi
Detachable lever and wheels
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Top 10 Best Camping Fridges Australia 2026

  1. Bushman Upright Fridge DC130X 12/24v
  2. Bushman Portable Expandable Fridge 35L-52L
  3. Engel Fridge MTV60C 57 Litre Twin Door Combi Fridge Freezer
  4. Waeco Fridge Dometic Fridge CFX5 55
  5. Waeco Dometic Upright Fridge CoolMatic CRX140
  6. Dune 75L Dual Zone Fridge Freezer
  7. Dometic CFX5 95DZ 94L Dual Zone Fridge Freezer
  8. myCOOLMAN 69 Litre AC/DC Fridge Freezer
  9. Dometic CFX3 45 Portable Fridge/Freezer 45 Litre
  10. EcoFlow GLACIER Portable Refrigerator 38L

Choosing The Best Camping Fridge Review 2026

best camping fridge reviews

As previously mentioned, it’s best to approach portable fridge or camping fridge shopping from your wants and needs, not hype or opinions about the best fridge for camping and caravanning. Here are a few suggestions when choosing your camping 12v fridge.

  • Type
  • Weight
  • Capacity
  • Dimensions
  • Other considerations

Type

There are a few different types of portable fridges you can use for camping, and depending on where they are going to “live” will no doubt influence your purchase.

Will your portable camping fridge live in the back of your 4WD, in a trailer, in a canopy, or be transported in your caravan?

Upright Camping Fridge

If you clicked on the link for our TOP PICK then you’ll know that this is our choice for the best camping fridges Australia. The added bonus is it’s an Australian-made camping fridge. Whether to invest in an upright camping fridge is amongst the most popular campfire debates.

Upright camp fridges can be significantly cheaper, and lighter and they work perfectly in canopies and 4wds. It’s just like having a bar fridge camping! Is that the best 4×4 fridge?

Some cons are that people worry that the cold air “falls out” once the door is opened. However, there are a few ways to counteract this.

If you are storing drinks only in the fridge, it won’t be a problem. Even if you are also chilling food, it still isn’t a problem when you use containers. The content inside the container remains cold even when the door is opened.

Due to its efficiency, the best upright camp fridge will return to the set temperature in minutes. We will discuss this further below.

Chest Camping Fridge

This type of camping fridge is the most popular, and many consider it the best camp fridge. They can be a dedicated fridge, a 3-way camping fridge (not readily available now) a dual-zone camping fridge (fridge and freezer) or one that can convert to either a fridge or freezer depending on the settings chosen.

They keep items chilled at the right temperature, although I have often experienced them icing up. Especially lettuce.

Sometimes you need something at the bottom of the fridge, so unpacking the items on top and then re-packing the fridge can be annoying.

Depending on the size of this type of portable fridge, they can be heavy and awkward to move.

RV fridges Australia will also need a fridge slide, adding more weight to your rig.

However, they are still considered to be the best value camping fridge.

Draw Fridges for Camping

Lesser known but becoming more popular, these camp fridges are great in small spaces or when space is a premium. They are excellent in the back of a 4×4 and can be stacked on top of each other or side by side. They can also be used as a fridge or a freezer. With up to 40L of freezer space, this can be a bonus when camping off-grid or touring remote places with little access to regular butchers and supermarkets.

Even though they have a smaller capacity, they can still be the same price as a camping fridge twice their size.

When I researched the best portable fridge freezer Australia and initially wrote this guide for the best 12v camping fridge, I thought we’d buy a portable camping chest fridge however as we bought a Y62 Patrol, we found a drawer fridge best suited our rig.

We have experienced over 40℃ in some places we’ve visited, and the fridge hasn’t missed a beat. We are very happy with our purchase and think it’s the best 4WD fridge for our setup.


Click here for our Complete Guide to the Best Drawer Fridge


Weight

If you are travelling Australia in a caravan, weight will be one of your top considerations. Your rig’s GVM (Gross Vehicle Mass) determines how much weight you can legally carry.

To combat weight problems most serious 4wders and campers have a GVM upgrade on their rig to overcome any weight issues. The GVM of your rig includes passengers, onboard fuel, fridges, bullbars, roof racks and any other additions to your vehicle.

Work out what weight you are willing to allow in your rig for the best car fridge Australia to suit your needs.

Capacity

All camping fridges Australia and portable fridges are measured in litres. What size does the best 12v fridge need to be to meet your needs?

Are you looking for a small camping fridge just to get away for a day trip? Then the best mini car fridge might suit your needs. Or do you need all the bells and whistles of a dual-zone camping fridge?

Do you need to store tall bottles in your portable fridge or will a small camping fridge do for cans and a bit of food?

If you make a list of all your “must-haves” this will narrow things down for you.

Dimensions

The capacity of a camping fridge determines the dimensions of the fridge.

Start by measuring the inside of your rig to find the space for the best car fridge for your lifestyle. Along with weight, this will be a major consideration of what size fridge you can buy. When measuring, also allow for handles and fridge covers, as the dimensions given by manufacturers relate only to the outside of the actual fridge or camping fridge freezer’s outer case.

Other Considerations

How many people are travelling or are likely to travel in the future?

If you are a couple, you may think that the best camping fridge freezers are for large families. However, for example, we intend to camp away from our van in a swag in a few spots around Australia so a small camping fridge like a 40L camping fridge wouldn’t suit our needs. We will rethink our camping fridge needs at those times.

Also, if you are camping off-grid for a week or so, will you need to store more fresh food? Will you need extra freezer space? Does the fridge need to be the best energy-rating fridge?

What is your budget? Do you have a limit on the amount you are willing to spend on a camping fridge?

These are some of the questions only you can answer that suit your needs. That is why we don’t weigh into great campfire debates present the facts and ask various questions to help you decide on the best camping fridge freezer Australia for your set-up.

Other Features

There are many features of a camping fridge you could consider. Apart from the brand name you could consider and check if the following features are important to you and your setup.

Internal Lights

Will you likely use your camp fridge at night or in a poorly lit area? If so, you may want an internal light in your fridge. Most upright fridges will have an internal light. Some camping portable chest fridge freezers do, and some don’t. So, it’s worth checking before you buy your camp fridge.

LED Display

External LED displays are prominent in camping chest fridges/freezers. They are easy to read, and light up at night or in low-light areas, showing you the various functions of the fridge at a glance.

WIFI Connection and Bluetooth Capabilities

 If controlling and maintaining the fridge temperature via an app is important to you then this feature may narrow the field down for you. Most portable fridge/freezer do have Bluetooth and WIFI capabilities, however, it does pay to read the specs once you decide on your fridge.

Fridge Slides

If your fridge will live permanently in the back of your 4×4 rig then you’ll either need to tie it down or install a fridge slide.

Fridge sides can add upward of 45kgs to your total weight and are known to rattle. Imagine that on the PDR heading up to Cape York!

Fridge Baskets for Storage 

There are pros and cons to using storage baskets in portable chest fridges. They are great for keeping everything in check. However, if you want to remove one that is full, it can be quite heavy.

Plus, they need to be removed straight up and down. You can’t remove them on an angle. If the basket is towards the back of the chest fridge, I’ve found it hard to remove it in one piece without removing the goods in the basket.

Portable Camping Fridge Lids

There are some brands of fridges that have removable fridge lids. Also, some lids are interchangeable, making the capacity of the fridge larger. Some lids are adjustable, too, and some have a built-in bottle opener. Handy for those cold stubbies!


Best Camping Fridges in Australia

Following are our findings from our research for the best portable fridges and car fridge reviews, including the best dual zone portable fridge freezer reviews.

Bushman Upright Fridge Review – DC130X 12/24v

Bushman Upright Fridge review

Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This 12v upright fridge is our TOP PICK and best upright camping fridge for several reasons.

Benefits

Bushman has been established for 38 years with an excellent track record. Plus, should you need after-sales customer service, it’s a simple call to Bushman, and an Aussie will pick up the phone to answer your question or concern!

Bushman has a simple philosophy – they keep it simple. Their products are

• Reliable – strong construction and the world’s best components
• Efficient – larger cooling units and lower amp draw
• Service – no call centres, just great old-fashioned service

This upright Bushman camping fridge is made from steel (like all the best camp fridges) and is built specifically for the extreme temperatures in mind we experience in Australia.

Other features include

  • Custom settings for the Danfoss compressor
  • Efficient – Less power usage due to low run times
  • Room for large bottles
  • Local Aussie quality control and customer service
  • 3-year warranty

Drawbacks

We couldn’t find any!

Click here for more information and the price for the Bushman Upright Fridge


Bushman Portable Expandable Fridge 35L-52L Review

Bushman Portable Expandable Fridge 35L-52L Review

Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Benefits

This is the best portable fridge freezer and if you clicked on the link above you would see it is our 2nd TOP PICK for the best 12v fridge Australia. It makes it our 1st TOP PICK in the chest or best portable camping fridge freezer category.

This Bushman chest fridge expands from a 35L to a 52L camping fridge with a simple change of lids. It is strong, versatile and efficient and one of Australia’s best portable fridge freezers.

What customers like about this fridge apart from being versatile for storage it also has 3 baskets for the 3 cooling zones. The zone temperatures are 

  • Top basket for veg & fruit – 6 degrees
  • Middle basket for dairy & meat – 2 degrees
  • Lower basket for pre-frozen food – -5 degrees

Plus there is still space to stand up drink bottles. 

Other features are;

  • Durable steel construction
  • Danfoss SECOP compressor
  • Versatile 35/42/45/52L capacity to suit your trip
  • External 2-way 12v and 240v – doesn’t eat into fridge space
  • 5-year warranty

Click here for more information and the price for the Bushman chest fridge


Engel MTV60C 57 Litre Twin Door Combi Fridge Freezer Review

Engel MTV60C 57 Litre Twin Door Combi Fridge Freezer

Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Benefits

The Engel MTV60C is a 57-litre twin-door combination fridge freezer designed for longer road trips, remote touring and off-grid camping.

Unlike a single-zone camping fridge that must be set as either a fridge or a freezer, this model gives you separate chilled and frozen storage. This can be particularly useful when you are away for longer periods and want to carry fresh food as well as frozen meat or prepared meals.

Engel has been used by Australian caravanners, campers and 4WDers for decades, and its portable fridges are known for their solid construction and Sawafuji Swing Motor.

Features of this Engel camping fridge include;

  • Separate fridge and freezer compartments
  • Twin-door design, so you only open the compartment you need
  • 57-litre total capacity
  • Suitable for 12V, 24V and 240V power
  • Strong construction for touring and camping
  • Separate baskets to help organise food
  • Suitable for longer trips and off-grid travel

Drawbacks

This is a premium fridge freezer and is likely to be heavier and more expensive than a smaller single-zone model. Check the complete dimensions, weight and required ventilation before deciding whether it will fit your vehicle or fridge slide.

Its separate compartments provide more flexibility, but caravanners and campers who only need chilled storage may get better value from a simpler single-zone fridge.

Click here for more information and the best price Engel fridge 


Waeco Fridge Dometic Fridge CFX5 55 Review

Waeco Fridge Dometic Fridge CFX3 55IM Review

Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Benefits

The Waeco or Dometic company was commenced in 1919 by two Swedish engineers looking to solve the problem of keeping food cold. They are accredited with creating the world’s first refrigerator. Einstein thought their creation was a stroke of genius. How right he was! 

Artic first manufactured the product and was bought out by Electrolux who then, at the end of the 1960s created a division called Dometic (then Waeco) for the Waeco car fridge and their leisure appliances. Dometic is now a public company.

Since the early 50s developing the Waeco fridge, the company embraces innovation for their Dometic camping fridge with this model being no exception.

Features of the CFX5 55 include

  • Waterproof, digital interface
  • An app to monitor performance and temps
  • AC/DC and Solar power
  • Removable ice trays
  • Fits 85 cans
  • Heavy-duty, lightweight frame
  • 5-year warranty

Drawbacks

It is reported that the ice maker is overrated and thirsty for power.

Click here for more information and the price for the Dometic CFX5 fridge 


Waeco Dometic Upright Fridge CoolMatic CRX140 Review

Waeco Dometic Upright Fridge CoolMatic CRX140 Review

Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Benefits

As we’ve already covered some of the benefits of an upright fridge above we’ll head straight into the features of this brand of camping fridge.

The Waeco camping fridge, or as some know the now-branded Dometic upright fridge, has better energy efficiency and greater temperature control than previous models.

Designed specifically for recreation vehicles features include;

  • 2-way fridge/freezer
  • 12v/24v DC & 100-240v AC
  • Custom Waeco Dometic compressor
  • Drainage plug for ease of cleaning
  • Digital interface
  • internal lighting
  • 3-year warranty

Drawbacks

No instructions and can be power-hungry.

Click here for more information and the price for the upright Dometic Waeco camping fridge


Dune 75L Fridge Freezer Review Australia

Dune 75L Fridge Freezer Review

Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Benefits

With a robust build and a comprehensive 5-year warranty, its innovative design includes a 3-stage battery protection system and brass anti-condensation coils. Ensuring both energy efficiency and enhanced performance. Its hefty insulation keeps contents chilled longer, while the versatile LG compressor offers temperatures from 10°C down to -22°C without heavy power consumption.

Experience the convenience of dual compartments that function as either fridge or freezer, adapting to your needs on the go. Designed for the camper, it’s lightweight, thanks to its polypropylene construction, and easy to clean with an internal drain bung. The Dune 4WD fridge is also user-friendly, featuring an internal LED light, a bidirectional removable lid, space-saving recessed handles, and an integrated stainless-steel tie-down plate for secure transport.

Control and monitor your fridge effortlessly with our custom Bluetooth app. The Dune 4WD 75L Dual Zone Fridge/Freezer is not just a cooling solution—it’s an essential companion for any adventure, be it to the beach, bush, or mountains, keeping your provisions fresh and your travels carefree.

Click here for more information and to check the price for the Dune Fridge Freezer


Dometic CFX5 95DZ 94L Dual Zone Fridge Freezer Review

Dometic CFX5 95DZ 94L Dual Zone Fridge Freezer

Rating

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Benefits

The Dometic CFX5 95DZ is a large 94-litre portable fridge freezer designed for longer road trips, remote touring and off-grid camping.

Its main advantage is the dual-zone design. The two compartments can be set at different temperatures, allowing you to use one side as a fridge and the other as a freezer. You can also configure both compartments for chilled or frozen storage, depending on what you need for the trip.

This flexibility makes it a practical option for Big Lappers, families, caravanners and 4WDers who like to stock up before heading into remote areas. The larger capacity gives you room for fresh food, drinks, frozen meat and prepared meals without needing separate fridge and freezer units.

The CFX5 range uses Dometic’s VMSO3.5 compressor, which automatically adjusts its speed to help balance cooling performance, noise and energy use. Vacuum insulated panels and upgraded seals are designed to improve temperature retention while reducing unnecessary power consumption.

You can monitor and adjust the temperature through the Dometic Mobile Cooling app using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. It also has a high-resolution colour display for making adjustments directly from the unit.

Other features include;

  • 94-litre total capacity
  • Two independently controlled compartments
  • Can be used as a fridge and freezer at the same time
  • VMSO3.5 variable-speed compressor
  • Vacuum insulated panels for improved temperature retention
  • Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity
  • Temperature monitoring through the Dometic Mobile Cooling app
  • High-resolution colour display
  • AC and DC power options
  • Suitable for touring, camping and off-grid travel

Drawbacks

This is a large portable fridge freezer, so it will not suit every vehicle or storage setup. Measure the available space carefully and allow enough room around the vents for airflow.

You should also check the fridge’s loaded weight against the capacity of your fridge slide, vehicle drawers and overall payload. Once it is packed with food and drinks, it will be considerably heavier than its empty weight.

The 94-litre capacity may be more than a couple needs for short weekends away, but it makes much more sense for families, extended travel and remote trips where shopping opportunities are limited.

The Dometic CFX5 95DZ is a strong option for caravanners, campers and 4WDers who want one large portable unit for refrigerated and frozen food. Its capacity, dual-zone flexibility and remote temperature monitoring make it particularly useful for extended trips and remote touring.

Click here for more information and the price for this Dometic CFX5 95DZ camping fridge


Engel Upright ST90F 80L Fridge Freezer 2-Way Compressor Fridge/Freezer Review

Engel Upright Fridge Freezer Review

Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Benefits

One of the smaller upright fridges the Engel upright still incorporates Engel’s signature swing Sawifuji motor.

This fridge will still store all your cold food and drinks ready for that road trip or day trip when you hit the track to explore. It is reliable with the added bonus of also having a small freezer compartment.

The easily customisable and reversible door panel allows for RV interior coordination.

Other features include;

  • Auto-switching between 2/24v DC and 240v AC 
  • Thermostat controlled generator
  • Solar panel compatible
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Low DC current draw at 12V3.3 Amps
  • 3-year warranty

Drawbacks

The top bolt on the door can shake loose as it is too short.

Click here for more information and the price for the Engle upright camping fridge


MyCOOLMAN 69 Litre AC/DC Fridge Freezer Review

MyCOOLMAN Fridge Freezer Review

Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Benefits

This 69L camping fridge can be used either as a single-zone fridge or a single-zone freezer. 

Jam-packed with features including the light and compact Mycoolman compressor with improved efficiency due to the low power draw from the variable speed. 

It has removable heavy-duty baskets and has an interior LED light.

Other features include;

  • 12v ports located at both ends
  • 2 bottle openers at both ends
  • Bluetooth connectivity to the app
  • USB port and charger
  • Multi-voltage 12v/24v DC and 240v AC
  • Recessed spring-loaded handles
  • Removable lid

Drawbacks

Short power cable and high price.

My Coolman also makes portable fridge freezers in sizes 36L/44L/69L/73L/96L/105L Click here to see the full range

Click here for more information and the price for one of the best car fridge freezer Australia from MyCoolman


Dometic CFX5 45 Portable Fridge/Freezer Review

Dometic Portable Fridge Freezer Review

Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️

Benefits

This is the Dometic camping fridge that sat in the back of my car for work. I’m glad I have used and tried this fridge and having done so I wouldn’t select it again purely for useability. Although it takes up a heap of space, I’d class it as a small car fridge because of the available space inside. 

By useability I mean I find it difficult to use due to its front lifting lid. I acknowledge that my car was small and therefore so the lid doesn’t stay fully open as it hits the ceiling of the car.

The compressor/motor of the fridge also sits at the front so the bulk of the cold section is at the back of the fridge and I find it difficult to reach some of the lower items in the fridge. In the shallow section on top of the compressor/motor area, the temperature is noticeably warmer than in the main section.

I imagine I’d have zero luck trying to reach the back section of this fridge if it were mounted in the back of a 4wd without a fridge slide. 

It is certainly worth checking inside your chosen camping fridge to ensure maximum capacity is in the cooling compartment which is why the Bushman chest fridge was a clear TOP PICK for this guide.

Features for this fridge include;

  • Heavy duty but lightweight frame
  • Can deep freeze to -21 degrees
  • Multipower options 12v/24v DC, 240v AC and Solar
  • 2-Year Compressor  & 3-Year Manufacturer Warranty
  • Connect to Bluetooth or Wifi

Drawbacks

Small inside for the price and doesn’t hold much.

The Dometic CFX range of portable compressor fridge freezers also include 25L/46L/53L/75L/94L/ plus they also make a range of fridge slides and fridge covers. Click here to check out the range.

Click here for more information and the price for the Dometic CFX5 45 camping fridge


EcoFlow GLACIER Portable Refrigerator Review

EcoFlow GLACIER Portable Refrigerator review

Rating

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Benefits

The EcoFlow GLACIER is a game-changer for off-grid living and gets a solid spot on our list of top portable camping fridge freezers in Australia. With smart tech and seriously impressive cooling power, this is one fridge built for modern travellers.

This dual-zone portable fridge-freezer offers flexibility with a removable divider, so you can run it as a fridge and freezer simultaneously or convert it into one big space. Whether it’s icy cold drinks or frozen steaks, it adapts to whatever you need.

What sets the EcoFlow GLACIER apart is its wire-free power option—you can run it for up to 40 hours on the optional 298Wh plug-in battery. That’s right, no cords. Perfect for beach days, off-grid campsites, or even just road-tripping convenience.

Another favourite feature? It makes ice cubes in just 12 minutes. Yep, real cubes. On a hot day in the Outback, that’s worth its weight in gold.

Other features we love:

  • Dual-zone temperature control (10°C to -25°C)
  • Fastest cooling in the industry – from 30°C to 0°C in 15 minutes
  • Massive 38L capacity (fits up to 60 cans!)
  • Detachable wheels and handle for easy transport
  • USB-C 100W port for charging devices
  • Control it from your phone via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth using the EcoFlow App
  • Eco mode – just 0.18kWh/day energy use

It’s sleek, smart and seriously efficient—a great pick for caravanners and campers who love a bit of extra tech on the road. Plus, the vacuum insulated panels (VIPs) boost energy efficiency while lowering environmental impact. Win-win.

Click here for more information and the price for the EcoFlow GLACIER portable camping fridge


Common Mistakes People Make When Buying A Camping Fridge

• Buying too large or too heavy
• Ignoring power draw
• Choosing based on brand hype
• Not checking internal layout
• Forgetting fridge slides add weight
• Assuming bigger = better


FAQs for Portable Camping Fridges

1. What is the Best Portable Camping Fridge?

There is no definitive answer to this question as different portable camping fridges will work better for different people.

There are a few different factors you’ll want to consider when looking for the best portable camping fridge. The first is size – you’ll want to find one that is compact enough to be easily transported and large enough to store all your food and drinks. The second factor is the power source – most portable camping fridges run on either 12V or 240V, so you’ll need to ensure your vehicle or campsite has compatible power outlets. And finally, price is always an important consideration.

Based on these criteria, my top pick for the best portable camping fridge would be either of the Bushman fridges reviewed above.

2. Is Dometic or Engel Better?

Again, there isn’t a definitive answer as both brands have their pros and cons. However, Engel is generally seen as more reliable and durable, while Dometic is considered more affordable. So it depends on your specific needs and budget.

It depends on various factors, including your budget and the type of camping you plan to do. Dometic and Engel are reputable brands, so you can’t go wrong with either option.

Engel is generally a bit more expensive than Dometic, but Dometic offers a wider range of products with more features. Engel is known for its durability and low power consumption, making it a good choice for people who want a fridge that can handle extreme weather conditions.

3. What is the most efficient 12v camping fridge?

There is no single camping fridge that will be the most efficient for every setup. Power consumption can vary depending on the fridge size, outside temperature, ventilation, temperature settings and how often you open it.

Engel fridges are well known for their Sawafuji Swing Motor and low start-up power draw, while brands including Bushman, Dometic and myCOOLMAN also offer energy-efficient compressor fridges.

Before buying, compare the stated power consumption, capacity and insulation rather than choosing on brand alone. A smaller fridge may use less power, but it will not help if it cannot hold enough food for your trip.

For longer trips, also consider how the fridge will work with your battery and solar setup, particularly if you plan to camp off-grid.


Wrap Up

The best car fridge freezer fridge that is the TOP PICK is the Bushman Upright DC130. This is due to

  • An Aussie owned and run company
  • Fantastic after-sales service for Aussies, by Aussies
  • Solid construction
  • Excellent quality materials used inside and out
  • Energy efficiency
  • Excellent value for money

Our 2nd TOP PICK was also a Bushman camping fridge. The Bushman Original Portable Fridge 35L with Expansion Kit. The best portable fridge for camping is only 2nd in our lineup as it is a chest camping fridge with all the qualities listed above. Bushman’s are the best fridges for camping.

Choosing the right camping fridge is one of the early decisions when planning longer trips or driving around Australia.

We hope our Ultimate Guide to the Best Camping Fridge Australia has helped you with your decision to buy a camping fridge.

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Annette
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6 thoughts on “Best Camping Fridge Australia: Tested for Caravan, Off-Grid & Big Lap Travel”

  1. Great insights on choosing a camping fridge! I especially appreciate the tips on energy efficiency and size considerations for Aussie camping trips. Can you recommend any specific brands that perform well in hot weather?

    Reply
  2. Hi I’m after a secondary fridge around the 40l mark, I already have a 40l Engel but would like a secondary one. My question is what the lowest amp draw fridge around as even though it won’t be getting open much it’s more so a second fridge and I don’t want something that’s going to draw much current and use too much battery power.
    PS I did have a secondary fridge but it drew way too much power. That’s why I’m asking what’s the best low drawing fridge. Any help would be appreciated.

    Reply
  3. Hi, thanks for the great article and effort. Is the Bushman Upright 130L (top pick) quiet? For use inside a 4×4’s cabin.

    Reply
    • Hi Grant
      Yes it is. The 130L model and smaller models are used in both 4×4 canopies and wagons. Plus you haven’t got the weight, extra expense and the rattle and squeaks of a fridge slide.

      Reply

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