Best Plug In Cooler For Car (2024 Updated)

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Are you planning a road trip or simply looking for a convenient way to keep your drinks and snacks cold while on the go? If so, a plug-in cooler for your car may be just what you need. However, with so many options available on the market, finding the best one can be overwhelming. Here are 5 key points to consider when searching for the best plug-in cooler for your car:

1. Size and Capacity: Consider how much space you have in your car and how much storage capacity you need. A smaller cooler may be sufficient for a day trip, but a larger one may be necessary for longer journeys.

2. Power Source: Check if the cooler can be powered by your car's cigarette lighter or if it requires an external power source. This will affect its portability and convenience.

3. Cooling Performance: Look for a cooler that can maintain a consistent temperature and cool your items quickly. A good cooler should also have a low power consumption and be energy-efficient.

4. Durability and Design: Consider the build quality, materials used, and overall design of the cooler. A sturdy and well-designed cooler will last longer and withstand rough handling.

5. Price and Brand: Compare prices and brands to ensure you are getting a good value for your money. Look for reputable brands that offer warranties and good customer service.

By considering these key points, you can find the best plug-in cooler for your car that meets your needs and budget.

10 Best Plug In Cooler For Car

1. Zeny 12v Dc Electric Cooler & Warmer – 28 Quart Portable Car Fridge For Travel & Camping With Locking Handle.

The ZENY Mini Fridge Electric Cooler and Warmer for Car is a versatile and convenient solution for travelers and campers looking to keep their food and drinks at the perfect temperature. This mini fridge can both cool and warm, making it suitable for use in any season.

With an electric car cooler range of 68°F below ambient temperature, this fridge cools your food in just 30 minutes. It can keep your food cool for up to 2 hours after unplugging it, without any melted ice mess to deal with. In warm mode, it can maintain a temperature range of 122°F-149°F, ensuring that your food stays warm during long trips.

This 28 quart (26L) capacity car refrigerator can hold up to 33 cans of soda or 6 two-liter bottles at once. Its compact design allows it to be stored almost anywhere within your vehicle, giving you easy access to your items while on the road.

The electric cooler is energy-efficient and operates quietly, thanks to its thermoelectric cooling system. This system has no compressor, which minimizes vibration and noise. The fridge is equipped with two kinds of power supply wires, allowing it to work with both 110V AC house and 12V DC power with a car outlet plug.

The fridge features an automatic locking handle that keeps the lid tightly sealed, ensuring that your food and drinks remain secure even when driving on bumpy roads. The outside of the fridge is made of heavy-duty polyester, while the inside utilizes high-density insulation.

Overall, the ZENY Mini Fridge Electric Cooler and Warmer for Car is a reliable and versatile solution for anyone who wants to keep their food and drinks at the perfect temperature while on the go. Its compact design, energy efficiency, and quiet operation make it a must-have for any road trip or camping adventure.

2. United Pacific 99121 Portable 10qt/9.5l Thermoelectric Cooler – Electric Plug-In For Food & Drinks, 12v Dc, 110vac – 1 Unit

The United Pacific 99121 Portable Thermoelectric Top Loader Cooler is a versatile and durable option for those on the go. It is designed to keep food and drinks cool or warm, making it perfect for road trips, camping, and other outdoor activities.

It is important to note that this is not a portable refrigerator, but rather a thermoelectric cooler/warmer. It takes time to cool your food and should be plugged into your home before use to avoid draining your car's battery. The cooler was initially created for semi-truck drivers with more powerful batteries, but it can also be used in cars and trucks.

The unit is solid and has a strong exterior for added durability while keeping your goods either cool or warm. It features a selector switch for both a cooling and warming option, allowing for maximum versatility. Additionally, it comes with a built-in USB charging port for your mobile devices when you are out and about. A shoulder strap is included for easy transportation, making it great for travel.

The United Pacific 10qt/9.5L Thermoelectric Cooler features dual power supply: 12-volt DC and 110VAC. It comes with a power adapter for your vehicle and an AC cord, and has a 9.5L storage volume, allowing for a good amount of food and drinks on the go. The cooler can be used in multiple applications, from having it in your truck, car, office, home, and anywhere else needed.

United Pacific is a company with over 30 years of experience, dedicated to the design, manufacturing, and supply of automotive products for heavy-duty trucks and classic cars. Their large library of aftermarket parts and accessories ranges from classic cars to trucking departments. They strive to offer the best products at the best cost and take pride in their work and products. Their team is dedicated to providing customers with the answers they need when ordering their products.

In summary, the United Pacific 99121 Portable Thermoelectric Top Loader Cooler is a reliable and convenient option for keeping your food and drinks cool or warm on the go. Its durable exterior, dual power supply, and USB charging port make it a versatile choice for a variety of applications.

3. Cooluli Vibe Mini Fridge – 15l Portable Refrigerator With Magnetic Blackboard – Ideal For Travel, Car, And Office Desk – Plug In Cooler And Warmer For Food, Drinks, And Skincare (Black)

The Cooluli Vibe Mini Fridge for Bedroom is a sleek and durable 15-liter thermoelectric cooler and warmer that is perfect for traveling, use in the car, or on an office desk. It is an ultra-versatile and functional mini-refrigerator that can store food, drinks, breast milk, insulin, skincare products, medications, and other essentials.

One of the most unique features of this mini fridge is its magnetic and blackboard front. The stylish and practical blackboard surface is perfect for storing magnets and keeping notes and memos handy. It is a great addition to dorms, offices, nurseries, and even on road trips, vacations, and tailgate parties. However, note that chalk is not included.

The Cooluli Vibe Mini Fridge is incredibly convenient and lightweight, measuring 10.5" W x 12.75" D x 14.75" H and weighing 9 lbs. 2 oz. It is also incredibly versatile, with the ability to quickly switch from cooling to warming with one quick switch.

The Vibe-15LE compact cooler/warmer mini-refrigerator is also eco-friendly. It features the brand's 100% eco-friendly EcoMax Technology, which uses minimum energy and prevents frost. The dual-voltage Vibe (110-240V/12V) works anywhere in the world, making it the perfect travel companion.

Customers can also enjoy exceptional customer support and a 1-year limited warranty. However, it is important to refer to the instruction manual before use to ensure proper operation.

In conclusion, the Cooluli Vibe Mini Fridge for Bedroom is the perfect portable and versatile mini-refrigerator for anyone who needs to keep their food, drinks, skincare products, and medications cool or warm. Its magnetic and blackboard front is a unique and practical feature that makes it a great addition to any space.

4. 25l Car Cooler Bag With 12v Dc Plug And Ac To Dc Converter – Keep Drinks Cool And Fresh On The Go.

The Car Cooler Bag 25L is a must-have for anyone who loves to travel or take road trips. This innovative product is different from traditional ice packs as it is a mini movable fridge that can be connected to the car for cooling foods and drinks. It is both lightweight and convenient, making it a perfect choice for food and beverages during long-distance travel.

However, it is important to note that the Car Cooler Bag 25L is neither a refrigerator nor a freezer, but a cooler bag. It can maintain a cool temperature of 50°F without any ice and can help keep food warm in cold winters without the need for electric power.

One of the most remarkable features of the Car Cooler Bag 25L is its collapsible design. It is only 5.5 inches thick after folding, saving much space for storage. Additionally, there are storage pockets on each side of the bag that help to keep small items organized during travel.

The large capacity of the Cooler Bag 25L is another feature that makes it ideal for camping, hiking, beach BBQs, team building, and many other outdoor activities. It can hold up to 34 cans (330ml) and has a load capacity of over 50 pounds, making it suitable for carrying a range of items.

The Cooler Bag 25L is made of high-quality materials. The exterior coating is made of 600D polyester, while the insulation is made of 15mm polyethylene for great thermal resistance. This ensures that the cooler bag is durable and can withstand the demands of outdoor activities.

The Car Cooler Bag 25L comes with an AC to DC converter in addition to the car cigarette cord, making it even more versatile. It is important to note that this is a cooler for vehicles only, and not a refrigerator. The minimum temperature it can reach is 57℉.

In conclusion, the Car Cooler Bag 25L is an innovative and convenient product that is perfect for anyone who loves outdoor activities. Its collapsible design, large capacity, and high-quality materials make it a must-have for any road trip or outdoor adventure.

5. 12v/24v Dc & 100-240v Ac Portable Car Refrigerator With Wheels, Dual-Zone, App Control, Lg Compressor, Solar/battery/plug-In Operated.

The DT-Pro Portable 12Volt Car Refrigerator Camping Fridge and Freezer is a versatile and energy-efficient cooling solution for outdoor enthusiasts. With its dual-zone feature, users can adjust the temperature independently for each compartment, allowing them to use it as a refrigerator or freezer. The left zone has a capacity of 32L, while the right zone has 13L.

The camping fridge is equipped with an advanced LG air compressor and high-density foam insulation 3D refrigeration technology, which makes the temperature drop faster than other coolers. The cooler's Max mode can achieve an efficient cooling rate of 15 minutes from 77℉ to 32℉, while the ECO mode only consumes 1 kWh a day and automatically shuts off once it reaches the set temperature.

The DT-Pro car fridge is designed with a smart and functional approach. It has a car battery protection system with three levels of H/M/L, which corresponds and shuts down the voltage to protect the vehicle battery from running out. The camping fridge also features reversible doors with a door-activated interior light, non-slip base, telescopic handle, and 6’’ wheels, making it easy to carry and perfect for off-road drives. Additionally, it has pole holders, tie-down hooks, and a drain plug, making it a reliable companion for outdoor activities.

The DT-Pro travel fridge can also function as a battery-powered cooler. It can be equipped with a detachable battery (sold separately), allowing it to run off-grid for up to 12 hours, keeping food and drinks fresh and cold anywhere. It also has a solar panel input that can recharge the battery, making it perfect for camping off-grid with no time limit.

The portable fridge comes with 120/240V AC and 12/24V DC adapters, allowing it to be used as a 12-volt cooler for vehicles or an extra fridge at home. DT-Pro offers a two-year warranty with a professional technical support team responsible for the portable car freezer. If users encounter any problems, they can contact the team via Amazon and expect a response within 24 hours.

In summary, the DT-Pro Portable 12Volt Car Refrigerator Camping Fridge and Freezer is a reliable and efficient cooling solution that's perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Its dual-zone feature, fast cooling rate, and energy-efficient modes make it a versatile and practical choice. Its smart and functional design, battery-powered feature, and accessories make it a reliable companion for all outdoor activities.

6. Portable 12v Electric Cooler With Lg Compressor, Fridge And Freezer, Solar Power Input, Perfect For Camping, Trucks, And Travel.

The NewAir 48 Qt. Portable Electric Cooler is the perfect companion for any outdoor adventure, whether it's camping, traveling, or just a day trip. With its rugged wheels and tough exterior, this cooler is built to withstand the rigors of the outdoors. The retractable handle makes it easy to transport, while the door-activated LED light makes it easy to find what you need, even in the dark.

One of the standout features of this cooler is its versatility when it comes to power. It comes with three battery protection modes, so you can plug it in to your car or use a solar panel and battery for total off-the-grid camping. This gives you total peace of mind when you're out in the wilderness, knowing that you'll always have a way to keep your food and drinks cold.

The NewAir 48 Qt. Portable Electric Cooler also has a number of design features that make it a great choice for any outdoor adventure. It comes with two wire baskets for organizing your food and drinks, as well as a built-in bottle opener and cutting board. The reversible doors also make it easy to fit it into your vehicle, van, or semi-truck, depending on your needs.

With a 48-quart capacity, the NewAir Portable Electric Cooler has plenty of room for all your provisions. Whether you're packing sandwiches and snacks for a day trip, or stocking up on ice cream for a weekend camping trip, this cooler has you covered. And with the car battery protection modes, you never have to worry about consuming too much car battery life and being stranded without power.

In summary, the NewAir 48 Qt. Portable Electric Cooler is a versatile and durable cooler that is perfect for any outdoor adventure. With its off-road wheels, tough exterior, and retractable handle, it's built to withstand the rigors of the outdoors. And with its multiple battery protection modes, you can rest easy knowing that you'll always have power to keep your food and drinks cold.

7. 12v Electric Cooler Bag For Vehicles With 18l/20 Cans Capacity, Perfect For Camping And Rv Use.

The RIGSTNE Electric Cooler Bag is the perfect addition to any road trip, camping excursion, or outdoor adventure. With two modes – cooling and warming – this 12V thermoelectric cooler plugs into any vehicle and is designed to keep food and drinks at the perfect temperature.

In cooling mode, the RIGSTNE Electric Cooler Bag can cool to approximately 46°F below ambient temperature, making it ideal for keeping drinks and snacks icy cold on hot summer days. In warming mode, it can warm to approximately 140°F, perfect for keeping food hot on chilly nights.

Despite its impressive performance, the RIGSTNE Electric Cooler Bag is remarkably lightweight, weighing in at just 3.5lbs. Its compact design (13.4 x 8 x 8 inches) allows it to fit easily into most vehicles, making it the perfect travel companion for anyone looking to keep their food and drinks at the perfect temperature on the go.

Inside the electric cooler bag, there is ample space to store up to 20 cans of soda (12oz), thanks to its spacious 18L capacity. The bag is made from high-quality water-resistant nylon fabric, EPE foam insulation, and a specially designed aluminum interior. This combination of materials ensures that the bag cools or warms quickly (within 20 minutes) and stays at the desired temperature for up to 4 hours when unplugged.

The RIGSTNE Electric Cooler Bag is incredibly easy to use. Simply plug it into a 12V DC adapter in your vehicle, and you're good to go. Whether you're heading out on a camping trip, road trip, or just need to keep your food and drinks at the perfect temperature while on the go, the RIGSTNE Electric Cooler Bag is the perfect solution.

8. Euhomy 45l 12v/24v/110-240v Portable Refrigerator & Freezer For Car, Rv, Camping & Home Use.

The EUHOMY 12 Volt Refrigerator is a versatile and powerful cooling device that is perfect for car, RV, camping, and home use. With a capacity of 45 liters (48qt) and dual storage areas, this portable refrigerator freezer allows you to store a variety of foods while keeping them fresh. It can hold up to 46 cans of cola, 28 bottles of water, or 15 bottles of red wine, making it ideal for RV1, truck drivers, boat owners, and campers who need to store seafood, snacks, meat, and beverages during their travels.

The EUHOMY 12 Volt Refrigerator features advanced 3D refrigeration technology and a powerful compressor for fast cooling. It has UL energy-saving certification and consumes very low energy. You can choose between ECO mode for energy-saving or MAX mode for fast cooling. Its average energy consumption is only 45W, which is equivalent to the power consumption of a car navigator. This makes it an efficient and cost-effective option for those on the go.

This car refrigerator is equipped with 110/240V AC and 12/24V DC adapters, which means it can be used at home or in the car. It also provides three levels of battery protection at different levels, which prevents the car power supply from being overloaded or short-circuited. This ensures that you don’t have to worry about running out of car power when using the 12-volt fridge. All this is designed to make your journey comfortable and enjoyable.

The EUHOMY 12 Volt Refrigerator is also silent and shockproof. The sound of the 12v fridge is only 40 decibels when it is running, providing a quiet and comfortable environment for you. Its smooth exterior and multi-functional non-slip base reduce lateral displacement, and it can still run stably even when your car is climbing at an inclination angle of 35 degrees. This portable car refrigerator allows you to enjoy iced drinks in a stable and quiet environment during your trip.

The LCD panel of the EUHOMY 12 Volt Refrigerator allows you to directly see the operation of the 12v refrigerator for car and adjust the temperature range at any time. You can set any temperature between -4℉-68℉(-20℃-20℃) on the panel. The car cooler also has a Bluetooth mode, with a mobile app, so you can remotely control the portable car fridge without being around the machine. EUHOMY offers a 1-year quality assurance, and their customer service team is always ready to assist you with any questions you may have about their car freezer.

Overall, the EUHOMY 12 Volt Refrigerator is a reliable, efficient, and versatile cooling device that is perfect for anyone who needs to keep food and beverages fresh and cool during their travels. Whether you’re on a road trip, camping, or simply need an extra refrigerator at home, this product is sure to meet all your needs.

9. Bodega 12v Rv Portable Freezer, Dual Zone, 59qt, App Control, -4℉-68℉, Dc/ac Power, For Outdoor, Travel, Camping, Vehicles.

The BODEGA 12 Volt Refrigerator is a top-of-the-line, portable freezer that is perfect for outdoor activities, camping, travel, and vehicles. With a capacity of 59 quarts (55 liters), it can hold up to 82 cans of cola, 43 bottles of water, or 12 bottles of red wine. The dual-zone feature allows you to independently control the temperature of the left and right zones, which can be used as a fridge or freezer, depending on your needs.

One of the standout features of the BODEGA 12 Volt Refrigerator is its app control, which is compatible with both Android and iOS devices. This allows you to adjust the temperature of the fridge remotely and monitor its status, making it incredibly convenient for long trips. Alternatively, you can also manually control the temperature using the onboard controls.

The BODEGA 12 Volt Refrigerator also boasts an energy-saving system that corresponds to different startup and shutdown voltages. It has a strong compressor that can quickly cool the empty fridge to 32℉ (0℃) in max mode. Additionally, the wireless design of the fridge keeps items cool even when the power is turned off, making it perfect for storing frozen foods.

The fridge is also designed to be anti-shaking, providing a stable and quiet environment even when the car is climbing at an inclination angle of 30 degrees. It has a multi-functional non-slip base and smooth external lines that reduce lateral displacement. The built-in LED light design makes it easy to retrieve items at night, while the bottom drain hole makes cleaning the fridge a breeze.

The BODEGA 12 Volt Refrigerator comes with a value pack that includes a cigarette lighter connector, wall plug, wall plug adapter, user manual, and two baskets. It also includes a detachable cutting board and stretchable handles and off-road wheels, making it incredibly portable and perfect for outdoor activities.

The BODEGA 12 Volt Refrigerator comes with a 5-year lifespan warranty on the compressor and a 1-year warranty on all other parts. The company has a professional technical support team that is available to assist with any problems or issues you may encounter. The fridge comes with 120/240V AC and 12/24V DC adapters, allowing you to use it at home or in the car. The RV freezer line length is about 2.6 meters, providing ample flexibility for positioning the fridge in your vehicle.

10. 28 Quart Electric Cooler And Warmer With Collapsible Handle For Camping And Travel. Includes 110v Ac Home Power Cord & 12v Car Adapter.

The VEVOR Electric Cooler and Warmer is a versatile and convenient appliance for those on the go. This portable thermoelectric fridge can be used as both a cooler and a heater, making it suitable for use in any season. With a capacity of 28 quarts, it can hold up to 15 bottles of 600ml water or 30 bottles of 330ml cola, providing ample space for food and drinks.

Despite its large capacity, the VEVOR Electric Cooler and Warmer is designed to be compact and easy to carry. The collapsible handle is ergonomically designed for comfortable carrying, and it can be locked to keep the lid tightly sealed. This is especially useful when driving on rough roads, as it prevents food and drinks from spilling out.

The energy-saving thermoelectric refrigeration system is another feature that sets this product apart. Unlike traditional compressors, it operates quietly and with minimal vibrations, making it ideal for use in RVs, campsites, boats, and other outdoor activities. The removable divider also allows for easy organization, creating two compartments for different types of food and drinks.

In addition to its portability and versatility, the VEVOR Electric Cooler and Warmer is also very easy to use. It comes with both a 110V AC home power cord and a 12V car adapter, making it easy to switch between home and vehicle use. This means that you can take it with you on road trips, camping trips, and other outdoor adventures.

Overall, the VEVOR Electric Cooler and Warmer is a great investment for anyone who loves to travel and explore. With its compact size, energy-saving technology, and versatile features, it is sure to make your next adventure more enjoyable and convenient.

Best Plug In Cooler For Car FAQs

Are there any plug-in coolers that can also function as a warmer for food and drinks?

Yes, there are plug-in coolers available in the market that can function as warmers for food and drinks. These types of coolers are commonly known as thermoelectric coolers or Peltier coolers. They use the principles of thermoelectricity to transfer heat from one side to another, allowing them to cool or warm the contents inside.

Thermoelectric coolers can cool up to 40-45 degrees Fahrenheit below the ambient temperature and warm up to 120-140 degrees Fahrenheit above the ambient temperature. They are typically powered by a 12V DC or 110V AC power source and come with both cooling and warming functions.

These coolers are commonly used for camping, road trips, and outdoor events, where they can keep food and drinks fresh and warm for extended periods. They are also ideal for office use, where they can keep lunch or snacks at a consistent temperature. Overall, thermoelectric coolers provide a convenient and versatile solution for those looking for a cooler that can also function as a warmer.

How does the size of a plug-in cooler affect its performance in a car?

The size of a plug-in cooler can affect its performance in a car in various ways. Firstly, a smaller cooler may not have enough space to accommodate a large volume of items, thereby reducing its cooling efficiency. Secondly, a larger cooler may require more power to operate, which can strain the car's electrical system and potentially drain the battery. Additionally, the size of the cooler can impact its portability and ease of use, especially if it is too bulky to move around or store in the car. Ultimately, the ideal size of a plug-in cooler will depend on the user's specific needs and preferences, as well as the car's available space and power capabilities. It is important to consider all these factors when choosing a cooler to ensure optimal performance and convenience.

What are some of the best brands of plug-in coolers for cars, and what sets them apart from others on the market?

There are several reputable brands of plug-in coolers for cars. Some of the best include Dometic, ARB, Engel, and Koolatron. These brands offer high-quality products that are durable, efficient, and reliable.

Dometic is known for their wide range of coolers, including models that can be powered by both AC and DC, making them versatile for use in a car or at home. ARB and Engel both offer high-end models that can keep food and drinks cold for days, even in extreme temperatures. Koolatron offers a range of affordable options, with products that are easy to use and can fit in the trunk of a car.

What sets these brands apart is their commitment to quality and innovation. They use advanced technology to create coolers that are energy-efficient and can withstand the rigors of travel. Many of their products also come with additional features like digital temperature control, sturdy handles, and rugged construction, making them ideal for camping, road trips, and outdoor adventures.

What are the most important factors to consider when choosing the best plug-in cooler for a car?

When choosing the best plug-in cooler for a car, some of the most important factors to consider include the size and capacity of the cooler, its power consumption, the type of cooling technology used, and its portability and ease of use. The size and capacity of the cooler should be chosen based on the amount of food and drinks that need to be stored and the available space in the car. The power consumption of the cooler should be low to avoid draining the car battery. The type of cooling technology used should be efficient and durable to maintain a consistent temperature. The portability and ease of use of the cooler should be considered for convenience during travel. Additional features such as temperature control, noise level, and durability may also be important factors to consider when choosing the best plug-in cooler for a car.

What is the average temperature range of the best plug-in coolers for cars?

Plug-in coolers for cars typically have an average temperature range of 32°F to 68°F (0°C to 20°C). However, the exact temperature range can vary depending on the specific model and brand. Some coolers may have a narrower temperature range, while others may have a wider range. It is important to note that the temperature inside the cooler can also be affected by external factors such as the ambient temperature, humidity, and insulation. Therefore, it is recommended to check the specifications of the cooler before purchasing to ensure that it meets your temperature requirements. Additionally, some coolers may have features such as adjustable temperature settings and digital displays to help monitor and maintain the desired temperature.

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