Best electric coolers for camping in 2025: my top picks for ice-free adventures
Camping is fun, but it can be a lot better if you always have something refreshing to drink. Imagine the following scenario. You’re somewhere in the heat, the sun is shining, and when you open the cooler, all of your drinks have gotten warmer. This is where traditional coolers fall short. But don’t worry. I’ve got your back. All you need is the best electric cooler for camping.
Electric coolers offer a reliable, hassle-free solution for keeping food and drinks fresh. More precisely, you can forget about bringing ice packs and finding a mess in your traditional cooler. You can now enjoy fresh drinks and food at any time.
But if you’re like me and want to compare a few options before making the final decision, you’re in the right place. As a Cybernews expert, I teamed up with our research team to analyze the best electric coolers available. And this guide is the result. So, stay with me to learn more.
Best electric cooler for camping – shortlist
- BougeRV E40 – overall best electric cooler for camping
- BODEGA 12 Volt Car Refrigerator – best portable electric cooler
- EUHOMY CF-45 – best electric cooler for car
- Dometic CFX325 – best compact electric cooler for camping
- BougeRV CRPRO 30 – best eco electric car cooler
- EUHOMY CFU-75 – best plug-in cooler
The best electric cooler for camping compared
Before I delve into my individual reviews, I decided to compare the best electric coolers side by side. So, let’s see what they offer and what puts them on my list:
| Model name | Capacity | Minimum temperature achieved | Temperature increase in 36 hours unplugged | Power draw (cooling) | Dual zone | App controlled | Weight | Best for |
| BougeRV E40 | 42 quarts | -4℉ | 37.4-41℉ | Less than 45W | No | No | 36 pounds | Temperature control of food and drinks |
| BODEGA 12 Volt Car Refrigerator | 53 quarts | -4℉ | Not specified | 60W | Yes | Yes | 40.1 pounds | Various capacity needs |
| EUHOMY CF-45 | 48 quarts | -4℉ | Not specified | 45W | Yes | Yes | 33 pounds | Different camping scenarios |
| Dometic CFX325 | 38 quarts | -7°F | Not specified | Around 90W | No | Yes | 28 Pounds | Durable design |
| BougeRV CRPRO 30 | 30 quarts | -8℉ | 37.4-41℉ | 45W | No | No | 22.5 Pounds | Eco camping |
| EUHOMY CFU-75 | 80 quarts | 0℉ | Not specified | 45W | No | Yes | 41.2 pounds | Camping and off-road adventures |
6 best electric coolers for camping – our detailed list
Now that you’re familiar with the most crucial aspects of the six best electric coolers for camping that I picked, it’s time to go more in-depth.
1. BougeRV E40 – best electric cooler for camping in 2025
| Price category: | Low-tier |
| Minimum temperature achieved: | -4℉ |
| Best for: | Temperature control of food and drinks |
The BourgeRV E40 is my #1 best electric cooler for camping. Thanks to its portability and temperature range of -4℉ to 50℉, you can use it for any outdoor adventures and keep your food and drinks cool.
Although this electric cooler doesn’t have a dual zone, its capacity of 42 quarts makes it suitable for a camping trip of one week with your friends or family. But if you’re like me, you’ll also like the 45dB low-noise system, which doesn’t disrupt your relaxation time.
2. BODEGA 12 Volt Car Refrigerator – best portable refrigerator
| Price category: | Mid-range |
| Minimum temperature achieved: | -4℉ |
| Best for: | Various capacity needs |
In second place, I have the plug-in cooler, BODEGA 12V Volt Car Refrigerator. Unlike my first pick, this electric fridge has a dual zone. But the best part is that you can control the temperature in both of the zones.
That said, this BODEGA cooler model supports app connection, which allows you to adjust the temperature from -4℉ to 68℉, and either keep your food frozen or just maintain the beverages fresh.
3. EUHOMY CF-45 – best car refrigerator
| Price category: | Low-tier |
| Minimum temperature achieved: | -4℉ |
| Best for: | Different camping scenarios |
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly electronic cooler that you can take with you on the road when camping, you shouldn’t miss out on the EUHOMY CF-45. With energy consumption of just 45W and fast cooling, this car refrigerator is perfect for any camping adventure.
I was surprised to learn that thanks to its advanced variable frequency compressor, the refrigerator can cool from 68°F to 32°F in around 15 minutes. Additionally, you can make the most out of its capacity, as there’s a removable internal basket for easy storage and access.
4. Dometic CFX325 – best electric cooler for car with compact design
| Price category: | Premium |
| Minimum temperature achieved: | -7℉ |
| Best for: | Durable design |
The Dometic CFX325 is another handy electric cooler for your camping trips. But what really sets it apart from other refrigerators, and made me explore it further, is its ice-making functionality.
The temperature range of this cooler varies between -7°F and 50°F, which is perfect for freezing your drinks and food or simply keeping them fresh. Plus, its ExoFrame build and aluminum alloy handles are durable for different conditions.
5. BougeRV CRPRO 30 – best eco-friendly refrigerated cooler
| Price category: | Low-tier |
| Minimum temperature achieved: | -8℉ |
| Best for: | Eco camping |
Another model from BougeRV that got my attention was the CRPRO 30 fridge. The first thing I noticed was its shock-proof design, suitable for uneven roads with up to 30° inclination. Thus, you can make sure you won’t find a mess inside if you go off-road.
The BougeRV CRPRO 30 is efficient in any way. Aside from its cost efficiency, it even has a specialized eco mode, which contributes to a power consumption of an incredible 36W. This is definitely something that not all electric coolers offer.
6. EUHOMY CFU-75 – best plug-in cooler with large capacity
| Price category: | Mid-range |
| Minimum temperature achieved: | 0℉ |
| Best for: | Camping and off-road adventures |
Last but not least of my top picks is the EUHOMY CFU-75 plug-in cooler. Although the minimum temperature is not like the other options, this refrigerator has a huge capacity of 80 quarts, making it suitable for longer adventures on the road.
But if you’re looking for a low-noise electric cooler, then the EUHOMY CFU-75 might be perfect for you. As it operates at just 42dB, you’ll have a peaceful environment at all times. Plus, the non-slip base makes it even better for camping trips that require off-road adventures.
How did we select the best electric cooler for camping?
My review process involved exploring specific and weighted criteria that helped me select the six best electric coolers for camping. However, I didn’t just focus on the specifics. I also made sure that you can actually use all of the models for camping adventures. Now, let’s check out the methodology I considered:
- Cooling performance and temperature range (25%). The first thing I was interested in was the cooling performance and temperature range of each of the electric coolers. That’s why I looked for a minimum temperature achieved of 0℉. This will help you keep your food and drinks frozen or simply cooled.
- Energy efficiency and power options (10%). Another criterion I considered was the energy efficiency of my top picks. But aside from this, I also checked for various power options, like AC, DC, or solar compatibility.
- Durability and portability (20%). Your camping cooler should also be durable and withstand any scenario. That’s why I explored the build quality, handles, and wheels of my six choices. As a result, I ensured you can easily take the refrigerators with you and not worry about damaging them.
- Storage capacity and design (15%). Depending on whether you go on the camping trip with your family and friends, you’ll need a larger storage capacity. This is another aspect that I focused on. Plus, I thoroughly investigated the design of each electric cooler, so I can see if you’ll get a single or dual zone.
- Customer feedback and real-world reviews (15%). Of course, I based my expert recommendations on customer feedback and real-world use cases. This helped me provide first-hand information about the best coolers.
- Price-to-performance ratio (15%). Ultimately, I checked the value you’ll receive for your money from each electric cooler. Sometimes, the most expensive solution doesn’t mean it will be the best.
What is an electric cooler and how does it work?
An electric cooler is a refrigerator that’s regulated by temperature and powered by an electrical source. They can use a 12V car plug, a wall outlet, or portable power stations. More precisely, electric coolers maintain the inside at a consistently lower temperature so that your food and drinks can remain fresh.
The main difference that sets them apart from traditional coolers is that they don’t require ice packs or other freezer blocks to keep the products inside frozen or cold. Instead, they rely on thermoelectric or compressor technology.
The thermoelectric coolers basically have at least two layers, where one creates a hot side and the other a cold side as the electric current passes through them. In fact, the cold side absorbs the heat from inside the cooler, keeping your beverages and food cold.
On the other hand, the compressor technology is very similar to the one of the refrigerators at home. Such coolers can achieve even freezing temperatures, but require continuous power so they can operate properly. Plus, you can usually control the temperature from an app, meaning if you’re like me, such electric coolers will be your go-to choice.
Benefits of an electric cooler
After going through everything you need to know about electric coolers, let me take you through some of their most crucial benefits, like:
- No ice needed. The best electric coolers for camping don’t require ice packs, leaving you with more space for your food and drinks and no water mess once the ice melts.
- Stable temperature control. Usually, you’ll benefit from stable temperature control, as these coolers work continuously. Even when they turn off, they start cooling again once the inside reaches a certain temperature.
- Longer food preservation. Due to the continuous operation and temperature adjustments, you’ll be able to preserve your food for a longer time.
- Portable fridge/freezer combos available. Another great benefit is that the best electric coolers have both refrigerating and freezing capabilities. Therefore, you can either maintain cool environment or keep your products frozen.
- Multi-power options for off-grid use. Last but not least, you can use these coolers anywhere due to the different power options, such as AC, DC, or even solar panel compatibility.
Factors to consider when choosing an electric cooler for camping
Making the right choice can be tough, especially due to the numerous electric coolers for camping. But don’t worry. Some of the factors I listed below should help you select the best cooler for your outdoor adventure. Let’s see some of the factors you should consider:
- Capacity: First and foremost, you need to select the right cooler capacity. Do this based on your group size and trip length. For example, if you go with a larger friend group, seek coolers with a capacity of around 80 quarts.
- Power compatibility: Always consider the power compatibility of the refrigerator and look for 12V, AC, solar, or battery support.
- Cooling type: Another thing to consider is the cooling type. You can choose either a compressor or a thermoelectric cooler, depending on what fits your needs better.
- Weight and portability: Don’t forget to check the weight and the portability of the fridge. Look for handles, wheels, compact design, and everything that makes the electric cooler portable.
- Durability: Make sure your cooler is water resistant and has an outdoor build quality so you can use it in different scenarios.
- Smart features: Lastly, look for smart features, such as temperature control via app or battery protection modes.
Other reviews you might be interested in:
Final word on the best electric cooler
I spent hours researching electric coolers. Based on my investigation, electric coolers help you maintain your food and drinks cold for a longer time. Based on their compressor or thermoelectric technology, they’re a worthwhile upgrade for campers who value convenience and reliability.
This review was hands-on and thorough, as I worked along the Cybernews team and got some valuable expert insights. But I also based my detailed review on user experience. So, while my top pick is the BougeRV E40 electric cooler, you can also go for any of the other options and find the one that fits your specific camping style.
FAQ
How long can an electric cooler run while camping?
An electric cooler can run for around 24-40 hours while camping. However, this depends on your choice and its power supply.
Can I use an electric cooler in a tent?
Yes, you can use an electric cooler in a tent. But to do this, you need to find a solution that runs without a continuous power supply.
Are electric coolers better than ice coolers?
Yes, electric coolers are better than ice coolers. They don’t require using ice packs, which reduces the mess that happens inside once the ice melts. Plus, they keep food and drinks fresh for a longer time.
Do electric coolers drain the car battery?
Yes, electric coolers can drain the car battery. That’s why you should look for coolers that have eco mode and don’t require a lot of input power.
