Want to get the most out of your camping experience? Having a reliable fridge is essential. See our top picks for best 4WD fridges!
Introduction
When it comes to camping, having a reliable fridge is essential. After all, no one wants to eat spoiled food in the wilderness, and keeping those cans cold is a huge bonus! But what are the best options for those who need a refrigerator that can handle off-road conditions?
This blog post will look at the market’s different types of 4WD fridges and their key features.
We’ll also provide tips on choosing a suitable fridge, or fridge freezer for your needs. So whether you’re looking for a compact fridge for your weekends away or a large fridge for extended off-road trips, read on for everything you need to know about 4WD fridges.
How many different types of 4WD fridges are there?
Three types of 4WD fridges are popular on the market:
1. Thermoelectric Camping Fridge
2. Absorption Camping Fridge
3. Compressor Camping Fridge
Thermoelectric Camping Fridge
This is the cheapest of all three options available and best suited for short trips or those who don’t want to spend much money. You can find thermoelectric fridges in different sizes, but they are not as big as the other types of 4WD fridges.
One advantage of this type of fridge is that it doesn’t use any moving parts, so it is less likely to break down.
However, there are also some disadvantages. For one, thermoelectric fridges are not as effective in hot weather because they rely on the temperature difference between the fridge and the outside air to work.
Although lightweight, this may not be a good choice for truck bed camping, long-term overland travel or 4WD camping.
Absorption Camping Fridge
This category of 4WD refrigerators includes fridges with 12v DC, 110v AC, and Propane Gas as power sources. It is highly efficient on Propane and can also be used as a freezer. It is one of the quietest fridges and can operate in all weather conditions without any problem.
However, it has a few drawbacks. One of the most significant is that it is pretty inefficient on 12v DC power, which makes it impossible to use if you aren’t running the vehicle.
It’s not ideal for weekend trips to the mountains or extended road excursions. It’s better suited for RVs, and camper van builds because most of your camping is done in excellent level parking areas with hook-ups if you choose to run it on electric.
Compressor Camping Fridge
The compressor refrigerators can keep food cold down to 30 degrees below zero, which is a significant benefit if you’re wild camping or Overlanding on uneven terrain.
This type of fridge is larger and heavier than the other two options, but its size makes it ideal for long-term camping, truck bed camping, and vehicle camping.
Another plus point of this kind of fridge is that they have an accurate temperature control system, and some models also offer dual zone temp control. Also, On 12v DC, they are highly energy-efficient.
What do I need to look out for when shopping for 4WD fridges?
When shopping for a 4WD fridge, a model specifically designed for off-road use is the most important thing to look for. These fridges are built to withstand the rigors of life on the road, and they typically feature reinforced construction and robust sealing.
Some most essential factors you need to consider before purchasing 4×4 fridges:
Size:
The first thing you need to consider is the fridge’s size. Do you need a large fridge for extended trips or a smaller one for weekend getaways?
Weight:
If you’re planning on doing a lot of off-roading, then the weight is a significant consideration. The heavier the fridge, the more difficult it will be to take with you on your adventures.
Power consumption:
All fridges need power to run, but some are more energy-efficient than others. For example, if you’re using your fridge in a remote location, you’ll want to choose one that doesn’t consume too much power.
Coolness and durability:
Considering how well the fridge will hold up in harsh conditions is essential. Some fridges are better equipped to deal with high temperatures and rough terrain than others.
Ease of use:
You’ll be using your fridge a lot, so you want one that is easy to operate, and with easy access. Choose a model with straightforward controls and an intuitive design.
Now that you know what to look for in a 4WD fridge, you can start shopping for the perfect model for your needs. There are many different makes and models on the market, so take your time to find the one that best suits your requirements.
“Think about using your fridge primarily for perishables like dairy, pre-cooked meals, cold meats, fruit, and for keeping just enough drinks cold at a time. Simple things, like replacing your cold drink with a warm one when you get one out of the fridge will save you lots of space and power.”
bushman.com.au
What sizes are available for 4WD fridges?
There are different sizes of 4WD fridges to choose from. Your size will depend on how you plan to use your fridge. For example, if you’re going on long trips or need to store a lot of food, you’ll need a larger fridge.
On the other hand, a smaller model will suffice if you’re only using your fridge for short trips or storing drinks.
The sizes of the 4×4 fridges range from 20 liters to 80 liters.
25L – This size is optimal for 1-2 people for short trips; you can store around 25 cans of drinks and a small amount of food for 1-2 people.
35L – The 35L is a great camping refrigerator for a couple of days away and allows you to store around 35 cans of drinks and a moderate amount of food.
40L – The typical or ‘standard’ size camping refrigerator, 40L refrigerators are ideal for two or three people for a long weekend.
50L – The Thrive 50L is a budget-friendly camping fridge that can keep food and drinks cold for up to 7 days.
60 to 65L – A 65L portable fridge is required for a family camping for more than a long weekend. These camping refrigerators are also helpful for storing food and beverages at local sports events.
80L – A camping refrigerator with a capacity of 80 liters or more is ideal for a large gathering of people!
“We always recommend getting the smallest fridge you can get away with, rather than the biggest fridge you can fit in the car.”
Gary Kottmann (bushman fridges) – Carsguide.com.au
How are 4WD fridges powered?
Battery power is typically the most common and easiest way to run a camp fridge for many individuals. While AC/DC connections are standard on various portable camping refrigerators and freezers, they also include 12-volt power adapters (12v), which allow you to connect your fridge to your car battery or a 4WD battery.
When connected via a 12v cigarette lighter socket, the car’s battery will keep the fridge cold while you drive. The problem is that once the engine is turned off, it will continue to consume power from the automobile, possibly leaving you with a flat battery. A good solution for this problem is using a battery isolator switch.
Where do drivers position their 4WD fridges?
There are a few different ways you can position your 4WD fridge. The most common is on the vehicle’s floor, either in the back or front. Other options include mounting it on a drawer system or in a tray on top of the car. Of course, if you have a rooftop tent, this won’t be possible.
The main thing to consider when deciding where to position your fridge is how easy it will be to access it. You don’t want to stop and unload your entire car whenever you need something from the refrigerator.
It would be best if you positioned your 4WD fridge in the back of the car. This way, it will be out of the way, and you won’t have to worry about it taking up too much space.
Another thing to consider is how well ventilated the area around the fridge is. The refrigerator needs to be able to circulate air so that it can stay cool. If the room is too cramped, the fridge won’t be able to ventilate properly and will have trouble staying cool.
Where can you buy 4WD fridges?
There are a lot of trusted websites and stores where you can buy 4WD fridges or fridge freezers. Some of the most popular include:
Amazon: Amazon is a great place to find a 4×4 fridge of all different sizes and brands. You can read customer reviews to understand which models are the best and which ones to avoid.
Bushman – Bushman is a well-known brand that specializes in 4WD fridges. They have many models to choose from, so you’re sure to find one perfect for your needs.
Engel – Engel is another famous brand that makes high-quality 4×4 fridges. They offer a variety of models, so you can find one that’s perfect for your car and your budget.
These are just a few of the many places you can buy 4×4 fridges. When shopping for one, it’s important to compare prices and features to find the best deal. You can sign up to these websites for offers and discounts.
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Advantages of having/using a 4WD fridge
There are many advantages to having a 4WD fridge. Some of the most popular include:
● They’re great for long trips: A 4WD fridge is a great way to keep food and drinks cold if you’re going on a long journey.
● They’re perfect for hot days: A 4WD fridge can keep your drinks cold and refreshing on hot days. It’s also a great way to store food, so it doesn’t spoil in the heat.
● They’re ideal for camping: A 4WD fridge is essential for any camping trip. It will keep your food and drinks cold, so you can enjoy the outdoors without worrying about them going bad.
● Convenience, and portability: Most 4WD fridges are small and portable, so they’re easy to take with you on the go. This makes them perfect for road trips and camping trips.
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Disadvantages of having/using a 4WD fridge
Although the 4WD fridges have many advantages, like everything else, they also have a few disadvantages:
● They’re expensive: Of the most significant disadvantages of 4WD fridges is that they can be costly. You may want to look into other options (such as an Esky) if you’re on a budget.
● They require electricity: 4WD fridges require electricity to operate. This means you’ll need a power source available whenever you want to use it. However, this may not be possible if you go camping.
● They’re not always reliable: Although 4WD fridges are generally reliable, there are some reports of them breaking down. If this happens, you could be stranded without a way to keep food and drinks cold.
If you are considering buying a 4WD fridge, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons to decide if it’s the right option for you.
Final Words
This blog has given you a better understanding of what to look for and expect when you consider adding a 4wd fridge to your vehicle. These fridges can be a great addition to any off-roading adventure, providing a reliable way to keep food and drinks cold.
When choosing a 4wd fridge, be sure to keep all of these factors in mind to find the best option for your needs. With some research, you’re sure to find the perfect 4wd fridge for your next adventure.
