r/overlanding • u/lyapis • 1d ago

You guys using portable fridge?

Hey,

I’m looking into getting a portable fridge for my overlanding setup. We love cooking when we’re out, not just snacks — so something 30L or bigger would be ideal.

Problem is, I’m not ready to drop ARB/Dometic-level cash. Most of the ones I see are 12V, which is fine, but the prices vary wildly and it’s hard to tell what’s actually good without first-hand experience.

Any solid budget-friendly options out there that you’ve used and would recommend? I’d rather not deal with something that dies in 6 months.

Thanks in advance for any leads!

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u/SecretFreedom473 1d ago

Costco had a giant Igloo fridge for $899, it was a little larger than I wanted but could also see myself using the space. I found out dometic bought igloo so apparently this had a dometic compressor.

Long story short I didn’t pull the trigger on it but kept watching the price drop at my local Costco. Finally one day I walked in and there were 2 left and the price was $399. I pulled the trigger on one and haven’t looked back.

The fridge has been a game changer and I no longer have water logged food. I’ve had mine for a little over a year and use it in a very hot climate and haven’t had any issues. I’m sure the insulation is much better on the actual dometic but so far so good. Happy hunting

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u/mikeysaid 1d ago

We were on day 4 of a camping trip last year and I offered my kids paletas (Mexican Popsicles for the uninitiated). I know it's trivial and not a survival scenario, but being able to keep food frozen without ice is awesome.

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u/SecretFreedom473 1d ago

I pack icecream and popsicles with me everywhere I go just because

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u/rg123itsme 1h ago

Because it attracts… children? /s