Long drives can be fun, but keeping drinks cold and snacks fresh is often a challenge. Stopping for ice every few hours is inconvenient, and traditional coolers get messy when ice melts. That’s why more travelers are turning to car coolers—portable electric or high-performance coolers designed for life on the road. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a cross-country road trip, or just want cold drinks within reach, the right car cooler makes travel more enjoyable. In this guide, we’ll review the best car coolers for road trips, covering electric models, ice-retention champs, and budget-friendly picks.
Quick Picks
- Dometic CFX3 35 Portable Refrigerator/Freezer – Best Overall
- Coleman PowerChill Thermoelectric Cooler – Best Budget
- ARB 50 Quart Portable Fridge Freezer – Best Premium
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Right Car Cooler
Before buying, consider the following factors:
- Type of Cooler: Thermoelectric models cool but don’t freeze, while compressor coolers act like portable fridges/freezers.
- Capacity: Sizes range from compact 20-quart coolers to large 60+ quart models for extended trips.
- Power Options: Many plug into 12V outlets, some include AC adapters, and high-end models can run off portable power stations.
- Ice Retention: If using a traditional cooler, choose one with thick insulation for multi-day ice life.
- Portability: Handles, wheels, and lightweight designs make a big difference on road trips.
- Budget: Electric coolers range from $100–$1,000+, while ice coolers are more affordable but require ice refills.
Detailed Product Reviews
Dometic CFX3 35 Portable Refrigerator/Freezer
Who it’s for: Road trippers who want a premium cooler that works as both a fridge and freezer.
- Key Benefits: 36-liter capacity; operates as fridge or freezer; Bluetooth app control; runs on 12V or AC.
- Pros: Powerful cooling, no ice required, excellent build quality.
- Cons: Expensive compared to traditional coolers.
Final Verdict: The best all-around electric cooler for serious road trippers. Check Dometic CFX3.
Coleman PowerChill Thermoelectric Cooler
Who it’s for: Budget buyers who want cold drinks on the road without spending much.
- Key Benefits: 40-quart capacity; cools up to 40°F below ambient temperature; plugs into 12V outlet.
- Pros: Affordable, lightweight, large capacity.
- Cons: Cannot freeze; performance drops in very hot weather.
Final Verdict: A budget-friendly pick for road trips and family outings. See Coleman PowerChill.
ARB 50 Quart Portable Fridge Freezer
Who it’s for: Travelers who want the best premium portable fridge for long adventures.
- Key Benefits: 50-quart capacity; precise digital controls; 12V/24V and AC compatible; excellent insulation.
- Pros: Premium performance, quiet operation, rugged design.
- Cons: One of the most expensive car coolers.
Final Verdict: A premium choice for long expeditions. Check ARB Fridge Freezer.
YETI Tundra 45 Cooler
Who it’s for: Drivers who prefer traditional ice coolers with maximum ice retention.
- Key Benefits: 45-quart capacity; up to 5 days of ice retention; bear-resistant design.
- Pros: Extremely durable, excellent insulation, no power required.
- Cons: Heavy; requires ice refills.
Final Verdict: The best ice cooler for long, power-free trips. See YETI Tundra.
Igloo MaxCold Cooler
Who it’s for: Budget-conscious travelers who still want strong ice retention.
- Key Benefits: 70-quart capacity; 5-day ice retention; insulated lid and body.
- Pros: Large storage, affordable, good performance for the price.
- Cons: Bulkier than premium coolers.
Final Verdict: A great value cooler for families and long weekends. View Igloo MaxCold.
Alpicool C20 Portable Car Fridge Freezer
Who it’s for: Solo travelers and couples who need a compact electric cooler.
- Key Benefits: 20-liter capacity; adjustable temperature from -4°F to 68°F; 12V/24V and AC compatible.
- Pros: Compact, affordable compressor cooler, no ice needed.
- Cons: Smaller storage space; best for 1–2 people.
Final Verdict: A compact and efficient cooler for smaller trips. Check Alpicool C20.
Comparison Table
| Model | Type | Capacity | Cooling Ability | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dometic CFX3 35 | Compressor Fridge/Freezer | 36L | Fridge & Freezer | $$$$$ |
| Coleman PowerChill | Thermoelectric | 40 qt | 40°F below ambient | $$ |
| ARB 50 Quart | Compressor Fridge/Freezer | 50 qt | Fridge & Freezer | $$$$$ |
| YETI Tundra 45 | Ice Cooler | 45 qt | 5 days ice retention | $$$$ |
| Igloo MaxCold | Ice Cooler | 70 qt | 5 days ice retention | $$$ |
| Alpicool C20 | Compressor Fridge/Freezer | 20L | Fridge & Freezer | $$$ |
FAQ Section
- Do car coolers drain the battery? Compressor coolers draw power, but many have low-voltage shutoff to protect your vehicle’s battery.
- Are thermoelectric coolers good enough? They’re fine for keeping drinks cool but can’t freeze food and struggle in hot climates.
- How long does ice last in premium coolers? High-performance coolers like YETI and Igloo MaxCold can keep ice for 4–7 days.
- Can I use a car cooler at home? Yes—many come with AC adapters for home or hotel use.
- What’s the difference between compressor and thermoelectric? Compressor coolers act like portable refrigerators/freezers, while thermoelectric models only cool relative to outside temperature.
Conclusion
A good car cooler makes any road trip more enjoyable by keeping food and drinks fresh without constant ice refills. For the best overall option, the Dometic CFX3 35 is a powerful and versatile electric fridge/freezer. Budget travelers will love the Coleman PowerChill, while premium adventurers can rely on the ARB 50 Quart. If you prefer traditional coolers, the YETI Tundra 45 and Igloo MaxCold offer outstanding ice retention. For compact use, the Alpicool C20 is excellent for solo or couple trips. Shop the best car coolers today and make your next road trip stress-free.
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