A 12V drawer fridge is ideal for touring setups where space, access, and weight distribution matter. They’re commonly used in 4WDs, utes, canopies, and caravans with drawer systems, offering easy access and a secure, low-profile way to keep food and drinks cold while travelling Australia.
When preparing for a lap of Australia, your fridge setup affects how easily you can live on the road and stay off-grid. Choosing a reliable drawer fridge helps ensure easy access and consistent performance in remote conditions. You can read my complete guide to planning a lap of Australia here to make sure your setup is ready before you leave.
A camping fridge is a must for any camping trip, and a drawer fridge 12v is perfect for those who want the convenience of a refrigerator without taking up too much space.
This post came about as we were looking for a standard camping fridge which is why we researched and wrote the Ultimate Guide To The Best Camping Fridge. However, we found a 12v drawer fridge freezer that suits us best. Hence we’ve researched and written this guide about car drawer fridge freezer 12v.
We started looking at a 12v drawer fridge freezer as it saves space and weight in our rig. With all the other 4×4 accessories we added to our Patrol, a car fridge draw would save us weight. Every little bit of weight saved has to be a good thing right?
We installed a false floor and 4×4 drawers for the back of our rig. They were built with a space for a draw fridge freezer. It is the top pick for draw fridges in 2024.
If you’re looking for the best 12v drawer fridge for camping, your 4×4,
The EvaKool draw fridge eliminates the need for a fridge slide with its unique and innovative drawer system.
- Holds 48 cans
- Secop PBC 2.5 Compressor
- 2-Year Warranty – Electronics and Cabinet
- 5-Year Warranty – Compressor
The Engel draw fridge freezer has built-in ventilation and two fans for excellent airflow. This 12v drawer fridge freezer is a powdered coated cabinet made of steel.
- Holds 35 cans
- Sawafuji Swing Motor
- 2-year warranty
The CD-30 Draw Fridge uses a clever design to turn unused areas into a useful cold store with a capacity of 30 litres.
- Holds 35 cans
- Secop compressor
- 1-year full warranty + additional 1 year (parts only) compressor
When A 12V Drawer Fridge Actually Makes Sense
A 12V drawer fridge makes the most sense when space, access, and weight distribution matter more than sheer capacity. In touring rigs where storage is tightly planned, drawer fridges allow you to use otherwise wasted space under false floors, drawer systems, or canopies without needing a fridge slide or upright clearance.
For off-road and touring setups, drawer fridges are often chosen for stability and ease of access. You don’t have to climb into the back of a vehicle or lift heavy lids repeatedly. The slide-out drawer design keeps contents secure on corrugated roads and makes it easier to grab food or drinks quickly, especially in tight or low-clearance setups.
Drawer fridges also suit travellers who already run a larger upright fridge elsewhere. Many touring rigs use a drawer fridge as a secondary unit for drinks, quick-access food, or frozen items, reducing how often the main fridge is opened and helping overall efficiency.
They’re particularly popular in utes, wagons with drawer systems, and canopies where keeping weight low and evenly distributed improves handling. By mounting the fridge lower in the vehicle, drawer fridges help keep the centre of gravity down, which is an advantage on rough tracks and long-distance touring.
However, drawer fridges aren’t always the best option for everyone. If you need maximum capacity, frequent access to large items, or the flexibility to move your fridge between vehicles, a traditional upright 12V fridge may be more practical. Drawer fridges shine when your setup is fixed, purpose-built, and designed for touring rather than general camping.
Best Drawer Fridge 12v Comparison Chart
The comparison below focuses on popular 30–60L 12V drawer fridges commonly used in touring and off-road setups across Australia.
| Brand | Capacity | Power Source | Dimensions WxHxD | Weight | Check Price | Features | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
EvaKool Drawer Fridge | 40 Litres | 12V | 24V | 590 x 325 x 830 | 35 kgs | CHECK PRICE | LED display, Holds 48 cans, Secop compressor | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
Engel Drawer Fridge | 30 Litres | 12V | 24V | 440 x 250 x 716 | 19 kgs | CHECK PRICE | Left, right & back mount available, Sawafuji Swing Motor, Holds 35 cans | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
Dometic Waeco Coolmatic CD 30 Drawer Fridge | 30 Litres | 12V | 24V | 440 x 250 x 730 | 19.3 kgs | CHECK PRICE | Continuous variable thermostat, Seacop BD35 compressor, Holds 35 cans | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
Vitrifrigo Drawer Fridge 30L | 30 Litres | 12V | 24V | 440 x 250 x 585 | 17 kgs | CHECK PRICE | Natural Gas Compressor, Night mode, Black or white | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
Kings 60L Drawer Fridge | 60 Litres | 12V | 24V | 490 x 410 x 720 | 23.8 kgs | CHECK PRICE | 68 can capacity, 5-year warranty, fits tall bottles upright | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
Kings Drawer Fridge | 30 Litres | 12V | 24V | 440 x 260 x 710 | 17.2 kgs | CHECK PRICE | Digital Thermostat, Secop BD1.4F compressor, Holds 35 cans | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
XTM Drawer Fridge | 30 Litres | 12V | 24V | 478 x 250 x 734 | 18 kgs | CHECK PRICE | Powder coated, 31 can capacity, 2-year warranty | ⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
Bushman Drawer Fridge | 30 Litres | 12V | 24V | 440 x 310 x 840 | 24 kgs | CHECK PRICE | Digital Thermostat Full stainless steel hardware, drawer runners and slam latch 7-year compressor warranty | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ |
Camping Fridge Drawer: TOP 8 in 2025
- EvaKool Drawer Fridge Freezer 40L Platinum
- Engel Drawer Fridge 30L
- Waeco CD 30L Drawer Fridge and Waeco CD 20L Drawer Fridge
- Vitrifridgio Drawer Fridge 30L
- Kings Drawer Fridge 30L
- Kings 60L Drawer Fridge
- XTM Drawer Fridge
- Bushman Drawer Fridge
How To Choose the Best Fridge Drawer 12v
Types Of Drawer Fridge 12v
The drawer fridge 12v comes in two types: drawer fridge with freezer and drawer fridge only. Both come in a range of sizes, from 2-3 cubic feet (25L), for smaller spaces like vans, caravans and 4×4’s up to 6 cubic feet (80L), for those who have a little more room.
Before buying a drawer fridge it’s important to consider whether you want a drawer fridge with a freezer or without. A drawer fridge with a freezer gives you the best of both worlds as it will allow you to store frozen food as well as chilled. It’s also more expensive than a drawer fridges 12v without a freezer.
A fridge drawer 4wd without a freezer is smaller and cheaper but only allows you to store chilled food – but not frozen in your car draw fridge.
What Size Drawer Fridge 12v Do You Need?
One of the most important things to consider when buying your drawer fridge freezer is what size you need. Measuring your drawer space will help you work out the drawer size and internal temperature of the drawer fridge freezer you’ll need.
If you’re not sure what drawer fridge freezer size you need, a good rule is to go larger rather than smaller if you have the room. With a larger space, you can carry and keep cold both food and drinks. That’s why we’ve opted for the 40L car fridge drawer.
Another consideration is whether will you want to use your drawer fridge freezer as a freezer. If you are hitting the outback and seeing places like Cape York then having a large dedication freezer might be best for you. That way you’ll never run out of meat and frozen goods and save money in remote places.
Weight of 12v Drawer Fridges
Weight is an important consideration when you are choosing a fridge drawer portable 12v. No matter where you are installing them 4×4/caravan/campervan/boat weight is always a consideration for your camping accessories.
Generally the larger the fridge the heavier they weigh.
That said, with the range of pull out fridge drawers 4wd on the market today, there are some compact drawer fridges that will fit even the most space-starved drawer spaces.
Quality Of Drawer Fridges 12v
12v drawer fridges Australia come in a range of quality levels, including some cheap models which are good for occasional use but don’t work well for people who need to keep their drawer fridge freezer on all the time
The most important thing is to choose a 12v drawer fridge with enough insulation to keep the drawer fridge freezer cold. Plus the 12v freezer drawer has to have a quality compressor.
12v drawer fridges also come with all types of drawer features including built-in thermometers, fast freeze options and economic energy use. A 4×4 fridge drawer without these features may be cheaper but they are not as efficient at keeping food cold over time.
Other Considerations For 12V drawer Fridges
Placement of 12v Drawer Fridges
One thing that is vital when choosing 12v drawer fridge is where you are going to place it.
The drawer fridge needs to be in an area that is out of direct sunlight where it will not get too warm. Built into the back of your rig or on top of drawers are two great options. Make sure that you leave ventilation around the drawer fridge freezer drawer portable 12v.
As well as being in a cool place, the drawer fridge will need to be connected up to 12v in your 4×4/boat/campervan etc. Some drawer fridges come with an in-built 12v plug whilst others will come with the lead need to be plugged into a cigarette lighter socket.
The Thermostat Of The Drawer Fridge Freezer 12v
The drawer fridge needs to be plugged in and switched on to operate. A drawer fridge with a thermostat is actually more efficient than one without as it allows the drawer fridge freezer drawer portable 12v to monitor and regulate the drawer space temperature.
The best drawer fridges have electronic thermostats that can be programmed so they turn off automatically when the desired drawer space temperature is reached.
Best 12v Fridge Drawer Reviews 2025
Evakool Drawer Fridge Review
Rating
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Specifications
- 40L – holds 48 cans
- Compressor – Secop PBC 2.5
- Weighs 35kgs
- 12/24v
- Temperature ranges -16C – 10C
- 2-Year Warranty – Electronics and Cabinet
- 5-Year Warranty – Compressor
Benefits
The Evakool DC40 eliminates the need for a fridge slide with its unique and innovative drawer system. Store all of your items in the Evakool 40L drawer fridge and pull the drawer out when you require them.
The Evakool drawer fridge has swiftly become popular with RV and 4×4 owners as it allows you to use the drawer unit as a refrigerator or a 12v drawer freezer. Many other RV Drawer units on the market can only be used as a refrigerator.
Efficient and compact the Evakool DC40 drawer fridge is durable due to its powder-coated metal cabinet. It also has fully insulated walls, an insulated roof and an insulated base.
The inside of the 12 volt drawer fridge freezer can be removed for easy cleaning and the compartment lids are made from acrylic. The LED light for the interior makes it easy to see the goods in your fridge.
Drawbacks
After using this fridge in the back of our 4×4 we haven’t found any drawbacks.
Engel Drawer Fridge Review
Rating
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Specifications
- 30L – holds 35 cans
- Sawafuji Swing Motor
- H165 x W335 x D470
- Weighs 19kg
- 12v/24v
- Temperature range – +8C – 8C
- 2-year manufacturers warranty
Benefits
There is built-in ventilation and two fans provided for excellent airflow in the Engel 12v Fridge freezer drawer. This 12v drawer fridge freezer is a powdered coated cabinet made of steel. The runners are stainless steel, and the Engel fridge 12v drawer has built-in ventilation with dual fans.
With an internal LED light, the Engel fridge drawer SB30F allows you to view all of your beverages and snacks in low-light situations. Plus, it has a small Sawafuji Swing Motor for efficiency and dependability.
Depending on your set-up, the drawer fridge 12v Engel has the choice of left, right or back location for the compressor.
The Engel Drawer Fridge SB30F is a compact, robust 4wd drawer fridge that fits in the back of your rig easily. This 4wd fridge drawer is also an excellent secondary fridge for your vehicle if you want a compact and dependable refrigerator for longer trips.
Drawbacks
No dividers in the fridge.
Many people are looking for an Engel drawer fridge 40L. Unfortunately, Engle only makes the 30L drawer car fridge at this time.
Waeco Drawer Fridge Review and Dometic Drawer Fridge Review
Rating
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
12v Draw Fridge Specifications
- 30L – holds 35 cans
- Secop compressor
- 240H x 440W x 720D
- Weighs 19.9kg
- 12V/24V
- Temperature ranges –2°C to +12°C
- 1-year full warranty + additional 1 year (parts only) compressor
Benefits
This Waeco cd30 drawer fridge review and the Dometic Coolmatic CD 30 are the same 12v compressor drawer fridge made by the same company, Dometic. You can read a full explanation in our camping fridge review here.
The CD-30 Draw Fridge uses a clever design to turn unused areas into a useful cold store with a capacity of 30 litres. The Waeco draw fridge runs smoothly on roller-bearing slides, and its black front panel complements the majority of cars’ interiors. The Waeco fridge drawer opens with a simple gesture of your hand, and it offers cold foods and beverages in an instant.
You’ll definitely be able to find a good location for your new CD-30 drawer refrigerator, even if you have little room in your 4×4,
The compact design and clever solution: the compressor may be placed on the side of the pull out drawer fridge (left or right) or up to 1.5 m away on either end.
A continuously variable thermostat allows you to precisely control the temperature.
Convenient access via a simple-pull drawer that glides on roller bearings.
With a simple move, the device is opened and locked automatically with the safety locking mechanism.
Drawbacks
Noisy fan and can be prone to rust if subjected to sea air for long periods, i.e. a boat installation.
Vitrifrigo 30 L 12V Drawer Fridge Freezer Review
Rating
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Specifications
- Night mode
- Sturdy and roomy
- Weighs 17 kgs
- 440 x 250 x 585mm
- Two-year warranty
- Natural Gas Compressor
- Two colours, white or black
- You decide the temperature anytime and anywhere
Benefits
Discover the perfect solution for limited spaces – compact drawer fridges/freezers specially crafted for automotive use. Meet the versatile D20A and D30A models, designed to give you precise temperature control whenever needed. Whether you want to switch between fridge mode and freezer mode effortlessly, these units have you covered.
In addition to their exceptional functionality, these compact fridges/freezers are available in sleek black and crisp white finishes. Their elegant and refined design seamlessly blends with any interior, ensuring they serve your cooling needs and complement your space.
Advanced Settings
The D20A and D30A models have a cutting-edge digital thermostat, guaranteeing precise control over temperature settings. This advanced thermostat system also optimises compressor operation, striking a perfect balance between efficiency and energy consumption.
Moreover, it incorporates noise reduction features, ensuring your nights remain peaceful and undisturbed while your fridge/freezer operates flawlessly.
Remote Cooling Unit
Thanks to the D20/30A series, you now have the freedom to make the most of every inch of space, as the compressor and the cooling unit are removable.
When used remotely, the remote external cooling unit increases the available volume within the refrigerator and opens up new possibilities for installation, enhancing functionality, efficiency, and soundproofing in the process.
Drawbacks
On the upper end of the pricing scale.
Kings Drawer Fridge Review
Rating
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Specifications
- 30L – holds 35 cans
- 260H x 440W x 695D
- Weighs 17.2 kg
- 12v/24v
- Temperature ranges -10C to +10C
- 5-year warranty
Benefits
The Adventure Kings 30L Drawer Fridge Freezer’s sliding drawer design makes it the ideal snacks and drinks refrigerator. This Kings fridge drawer has a compact design and is perfect if you are short on space or concerned about weight in your 4wd.
The Kings fridge draw has 12 threaded mounting spots allowing for a smooth installation and flush installation into your
The Kings draw fridge also pairs well with a conventional or upright 12V fridge. Using your large 12v upright fridge for your main food storage means you can use the Adventure Kings 30L Drawer Fridge for quick and easy access to your beer, wine and any other snacks.
The Kings 30L Drawer Fridge Freezer has a control panel and digital thermostat making setting temperatures and adjusting settings easy. Plus keeping an eye on your fridge temperature on the LCD screen is also easy.
The kings drawer fridge dimensions are found in the comparison chart above.
Drawbacks
Various error messages and componentry failures are reported.
Kings 60L Drawer Fridge Review
Rating
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Specifications
- 12V/24V
- Holds 68 cans
- Weighs 23.8 kgs
- 5-year warranty
- 490 x 410 x 720mm
- Removable dividers
- Use as a fridge or freezer
Benefits
This 60L drawer fridge is an actual fridge, running a genuine compressor, just like your fridge at home. The design mounts into your 4WD, ute’s canopy, or
However, since the initial build and release of the 60L drawer fridge, the compressor is now a Hyui compressor and not a Secop compressor. This
The design of this drawer fridge allows the internal compartment to slide forward on heavy-duty slides. There is enough space to fit 68 375ml cans, and at 280mm high, there’s enough space to fit a screw-top 750ml wine bottle, a 1.25L soft drink bottle or a 2L milk bottle standing up.
Drawbacks
- It’s a heavy fridge
- Odd shape for a drawer fridge
XTM Drawer Fridge Review
Rating
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Specifications
- Takes 31 cans
- Weighs 18 kgs
- 478 x 250 x 734mm
- Two-year warranty
- Removable drawer dividers
- 3-level adjustable power cut-off
- Temperature range from -20°C to +10°C
Benefits
The XTM 30L Draw Fridge features a cleverly designed drawer with a reliable locking mechanism, guaranteeing it remains securely closed, even in challenging conditions. The user-friendly central control panel is conveniently within arm’s reach, allowing you to adjust the temperature and settings to your liking effortlessly.
When it comes to organisation, customisation is paramount. You can arrange the fridge according to your preferences with removable drawer dividers. Keep your beverages, snacks, and essentials precisely where you want them for ultimate convenience.
This robust and portable fridge is built to endure the most demanding challenges nature can throw your way. The powder-coated body is designed to withstand the harshest conditions, making it the ideal companion for outdoor adventures.
Drawbacks
- Trouble with the lock
- Does not connect to portable power station
Bushman Drawer Fridge Review
Rating
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Specifications
- 30L capacity with drawer-style access
- Dual voltage compatibility: 12V / 24V DC
- Cooling range: -18°C to +10°C
- Digital thermostat with simple button controls
- Low-voltage cut-off to protect your battery
- Sturdy, powder-coated steel body with smooth drawer slides
- Quiet brushless compressor (approx. 40 dB)
- Drain plug and easy-clean interior
- 24 kg weight
- 7-year compressor, 3-year fridge warranty
Benefits
The Bushman 30L Drawer Fridge/Freezer is a compact, tough, and cleverly designed unit that fits seamlessly into vehicle drawers, ute setups, or under campervan benches. With its slide-out drawer and 30L capacity, it’s ideal for weekend getaways or solo travel, giving you just the right balance of storage and portability.
Built for real-world conditions, it runs on both 12V and 24V systems and includes low voltage battery protection. The digital thermostat gives you precise control between -18°C and +10°C, making it a true fridge/freezer combo. The drawer layout offers easy access without the need to dig through layers of food, and the solid construction ensures it handles dust, bumps, and vibration with ease.
Perfect for travellers, campers, and tourers who need a space-efficient, durable, and easy-to-use fridge/freezer that performs reliably in rugged conditions.
Common Mistakes When Choosing A 12V Drawer Fridge
- Assuming drawer fridges save power compared to upright fridges
- Choosing size without measuring drawer depth and ventilation clearance
- Expecting a drawer fridge to replace a large family fridge
- Forgetting weight once drawers and false floors are added
- Poor ventilation leading to compressor overheating
Wrap Up
Compared to other camping fridges, choosing a drawer fridge is fairly easy as there isn’t much choice. There are nine that would suit the back of your rig. We hope you have found this guide to drawer fridges 12v useful for choosing the best drawer fridge 12v that suits your needs and lifestyle.
Looking beyond fridges, we also cover other off-grid essentials like the best solar blanket to help you stay powered on the road.
If you’re preparing for extended touring, our guide to Big Lap planning covers route prep, vehicle setup, and essential gear.
Read our other complete guides for the other caravan accessories and gear for caravanning and camping.
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With years of experience travelling Australia in a caravan, I’m passionate about helping others embark on their own unforgettable adventures. From off-grid camping tips to expert advice on planning the ultimate big lap of Australia, I share stories, practical hacks, and inspiration to make your journey stress-free and exciting. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or just starting out, join me as I explore the beauty of Australia, one road at a time!
Hi
Just looking at a fridge to take up the space in back of a 7 seat Prado, what is the longest fridge draw your can get as I didn’t want to waste space behind where the fridge will sit
Thanks Wanda
Hi can you tell me the name of the drawers you have fitted in your car ?
Finding it difficult to find one that works well with the draw fridge in a 200 series
Thank you Annette & Kev, this was great information. I`m about to start my 4×4 adventures and I didn`t realise there was suck a big difference in draw fridge/freezers.
Julie