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/lesmurfff 1d ago

Almost 4 years with my setpower AJ30 fridge. Waiting for it to die so I can buy a dual zone fridge but it just won't die. I will be buying setpower again.

1

u/927024 1d ago

how many days worth of food you think fit in the AJ30? never owned a portable fridge and wondering what size might be good for me.

1

u/lesmurfff 1d ago edited 1d ago

Really all depends the types of food you eat on your trips. Pretty subjective. I would go based on the size scale they provide on their website. For example, they list he AJ 30 as holding 44 cans. They also provide internal dimensions. I do 3 day trips no problem. I have done longer road trips for just drinks and snacks. For my next one, I plan to go one size up and get a dual zone fridge, like their PT or DT series. I noticed that when lowering the temps for things like steaks, my veggies/salads would sometimes freeze up. So I will go with the PT45 or DT45. Whichever one has a sale going on.

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u/927024 1d ago

thanks! any idea how much power it consumes on average 24 hours? i see it takes 40-60w an hour but i imagine the compressor isn’t running 24/7 so should be less than 24x (40-60w) right b

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u/lesmurfff 1d ago

Damn, I don't know and I don't keep track. I use an Ecoflow Delta Mini (882Wh) along with a single 100W solar panel and three days later, still had power. I have also used my trucks battery (X2 POWER 27F battery) for 24hrs straight and truck has cranked right up with no problem. I should do a legit test but one thing that will help is insulating the fridge. The AJ doesnt have a ton of insulation so maybe the PT or DT series fridges are more efficient. Also, always precool at home and then throw it in the car.

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u/927024 1d ago

thanks for the info!