Tips and Tricks for 12V Travel Fridges for Cool Adventures

Published 9 October 2023

Travel fridges have become an indispensable companion for off-road trips, camping, and touring. These 12V portable refrigerators keep your food and drinks cool and fresh, making your adventures more enjoyable. To make the most of your 12V car fridge, here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind.

1. Pre-Cool Your Fridge: Before loading it up, allow your travel fridge to cool down to the desired temperature. Pre-cooling ensures better efficiency and helps preserve your food for longer. To make this easier on your fridge and 12V battery system, stock it with cold items so there’s less to cool down.
2. Don’t add warm items: Adding items that are even at room temperature will take longer to cool then if they started off cold. When ever possible, use your home fridge to cool down your food and drinks first and this will lower the fridges power use.
3. Organise Efficiently: Proper organisation can maximise space and cooling efficiency. Use baskets or dividers to separate items, keeping similar items together. Stack items neatly to prevent blocking airflow.
4. Minimise Opening: Every time you open the fridge, warm air enters, causing the compressor to work harder. Plan ahead and limit the number of times you open it. Consider using clear containers so you can quickly identify items without opening the fridge.
5. Ventilation Matters: Adequate ventilation around your travel fridge is crucial. Ensure there’s enough space for airflow, especially behind and on the sides of the fridge. This prevents overheating and improves efficiency.
6. Keep It Level: When setting up your 12V fridge in your vehicle or campsite, ensure it’s level. This prevents strain on the compressor and ensures even cooling throughout the fridge.
7. Monitor Power Use: Running a 12V fridge continuously can drain your vehicle’s battery. Use a low-voltage cut-off device or timer to prevent over-discharging the battery. Many fridges also have adjustable temperature settings; higher temperatures consume less power.
8. Clean Regularly: Keep your fridge clean, inside and out. Remove crumbs and spills promptly to prevent odours and mould growth. Wipe down the exterior to maintain its appearance.
9. Keep It Secure: During travel, secure your fridge to prevent it from moving or tipping over. You can use straps or custom mounts designed for this purpose.
10. Regular Maintenance: Periodically check your fridge’s power cord, plugs, and connections for any damage. Ensure the seals on the fridge doors are in good condition to prevent cold air from escaping.

A well-maintained and properly used 12V travel fridge can enhance your outdoor adventures by keeping your food fresh and beverages cold. By following these tips and tricks, you’ll make the most of this essential piece of camping equipment and enjoy worry-free, delicious meals on the road.