Are you looking for a portable cooling device that you can power from your car’s electrical system? A plug-in car cooler offers a simple and efficient way to keep drinks and food cold on road trips and camping trips. Here’s how to choose the right one – and what to avoid.
Features to Look for in a 12V Car Cooler:
1. Cooler Size
First of all, think about how much space you’ll need for food and drinks. A larger cooler conveniently holds more items. However these units typically up more space, require more energy and may be more cumbersome to carry.
On the other hand, a smaller cooler fits better in small spaces and can cool with less power. That said, the size may not be able to accommodate all the food and drinks you want to bring.
2. Cooling Options
Secondly, consider temperature control. For example, some coolers have a single temperature setting, while others offer adjustable temperature controls. Furthermore, some units offer separate compartments that you can use like a fridge plus freezer, often called “Dual Zone”.
3. Compressor Cooling VS Thermoelectric
Third, you can choose between compressor coolers and thermoelectric. In short, compressor coolers are larger and cost more – but they cooler more efficiently. On the other hand, thermoelectric coolers don’t cool as quickly, but they can save you money.
In other words, if you want a more affordable and compact option for shorter trips, a thermoelectric cooler may suit you better. However, if you need a larger cooler that can cool the contents more quickly and efficiently for longer trips, a compressor cooler may be a better investment.
4. Cooler Insulation
Fourth, quality insulation can keep your food and drinks cold for longer periods (important for extended camping trips). So, what do you need to look for?
- Get a Cooler with an R-Value of at Least 20: The R-value is a measure of the insulation’s ability to resist heat flow, and a higher number indicates better insulation.
- Look for Double-Walled Construction: Double-walled construction has an air gap between the walls that also acts as an insulator. Therefore, it can significantly reduce heat transfer.
- Check the Lid: Next, look for a lid that fits snugly and has a rubber seal to prevent warm air from entering the cooler.
- Compare the Insulating Material: 12V coolers made of materials like polyurethane foam have excellent insulating properties.
Note: In general, thermoelectric coolers don’t cool as well as compressor coolers. Compressor coolers typically have thicker walls and better insulation, making them more efficient at keeping your food and drinks cold.
5. Durability
Of course, you want the exterior shell of your cooler to be strong and durable. Most units are sturdy, but if you need something ultra-tough, check out the ARB element fridge freezer designed specifically for off-roading.
How You Can Save Money on an Electric Car Cooler:
As we talked about above, you can save money by purchasing a thermoelectric 12V cooler rather than a compressor cooling system. Another option is to look for end-of-season or holiday deals and discounts.
Note: Alpicool is an off-brand compressor cooler that offers a significant discount compared to other compressor style brands.
You can use it as a fridge or freezer, and it comes in 4 different sizes. Plus, the cooler has low noise output, an interior light and bluetooth functionality. I own one myself, and I really like it.
You can also maximize the cooler’s value by choosing a unit that you’ll use more often. For instance, some plug-in coolers for cars can chill and warm food. Therefore, you can travel with home-cooked heated food to outdoor events rather than ordering out.
12V coolers also come in handy to keep work lunches fresh or warm, especially if you work at remote locations. This can also save you money compared to frequent dining out.
In addition, many electric car coolers come with both AC and DC charging cords. Therefore, you can conveniently plug them into a wall outlet at home or at work as well.
How to Avoid Poorly-Made 12V Coolers
Not all plug-in coolers are created equal, so it’s important to avoid bad ones. Look for coolers with good reviews and a solid reputation. Don’t be swayed by flashy marketing campaigns or low prices.
Make sure the cooler you choose has a good warranty. A warranty will protect you in case the cooler breaks down or doesn’t work as expected.
Note: Check the cooler’s power consumption. A cooler with a high power consumption will drain your car’s battery faster, which can be a problem if you’re on a long road trip.
In Summary:
A plug-in cooler for your car can make your road trips and camping trips much more enjoyable. However, you first want to evaluate the size, cooling type, insulation level, warranty and durability. To save money, look at thermoelectric models but be sure to read customer reviews.
