- Swing-up bale handle with comfort grip for easy carrying
- Molded-in side handles for two handed carrying or lifting. Capacity-32 12-oz cans; 26 quarts (24 liters)
- 8' long power cord plugs into any 12V DC receptacle (e.g. cigarette lighter) for portable use - good universal fit in 12V outlet
- Uses your car's cigarette lighter to cool without ice, unlocking more room for food and drinks, as well as keeping all contents fresh and dry. Takes cooler temperature down to 36F below surrounding air
- Cools without ice and leaves you more room for food and drinks
I’d name this as the best vehicle cooler. You ask why. It’s because it’s super lightweight, easy to carry, and keeps things cooler for a surprisingly long time than other thermometric ones.
Keeping a massive cooler in a van is obviously not an option, so you can opt for this compact one and save your van space. This cooler is thermoelectric, which means it’s easy to maintain, uses less power, and lightweight as compared to others.
However, keep in mind that it’s a cooler and not a fridge. It can keep things cold (or hot for that matter) but wouldn’t freeze them.
Features
It’s made up of plastic and polypropylene liner material; therefore, it is light weighted and easy to move.
It comes with molded side handles, making it handy and easy to carry. Also, the handle provides a comfortable grip.
The storing space is 26 quarts or 24 liters.
This cooler can connect easily to any 12 volt DC receptacle like your car’s cigarette lighter.
Pros
Small and handy
Has enough internal space
Sturdy build
Consumes less energy than others
Cons
The plug can get heated.
Does not work efficiently in hotter areas
Food needs to be precooled to make them last more time.
Verdict
If you are in search of a cooler that takes less space and works as efficiently as others, this one can be your ideal pick. This cooler is easy to carry around and easy to use. What more a van lifer would ask for?
Wagan 12V Personal Cooler
- 14L 12v cooler/warmer lets drivers save money and time by enjoying food and drinks on the go inside your vehicle, reduce or eliminate stops at fast food joints during road trips, and save gas by avoiding the line at the drive thru; ideal for road trips
- Keep food and beverages cool without messy ice, or keep them warm instead; unit holds up to 12 soda cans; standard size water bottles also fit inside (if desired, you can even pack healthy snacks like fruit and yogurt)
- Hot/cold/off switch has indicator lights for quickly viewing which temperature mode is in use; maximum cooling capacity is 32 Degree-36 Degree F below room temperature and it can heat up to a maximum of 140 Degree
- Easy to use - simply plug into your vehicle's 12v DC outlet and slide the temperature control switch; 9 foot DC power cord extends to your vehicle's back seat area; built-in shoulder strap allows for easy transport to take it anywhere you go
- An optional AC adapter accessory is available (Wagan item 9903) for additional use in the home, office or hotel (sold separately)
What’s better than a cooler that doubles as a warmer? Wagan not only cools your drinks but in winters, it can act as a warmer too. Imagine sipping a warm soup snuggled in a blanket right in your campervan.
This cooler is easy to use and easy to maintain.
Wagan boasts about the durability of their products, and rightly so. With proper care, this cooler can last a lifetime.
Features
The 12-volt cooler requires low energy as it works on thermoelectric cooling technology.
It can efficiently cool your stuff as low as 36 degrees down the ambient temperature.
The most striking function is it can be heated up to 140 F.
Along with the direct DC connection, it also comes with an AC adapter.
Internal space is adequate to keep 12 soda cans and standard size water bottles.
Pros
Quiet cooling
Practice design
Do cooling and warming both.
Easy to move around
Environment-friendly (does not contain Chloro Flouro Carbons)
Cons
Not very compact
Reduced performance in sweltering temperatures
Verdict
If you are searching for a cooler that doubles as a warmer, then this cooler cum warmer has got you sorted. Keep things chilled in hot summers and warm in chilly winters. Isn’t it a van lifers dream come true?
Coleman 40 quart portable cooler
- Versatile hot/cold thermoelectric cooler keeps food items at an optimal temperature
- Keeps contents up to 40 degrees colder or warmer than the surroundings
- 8-foot power cord allows you to the power the cooler with a car or boat outlet
- Door opens from either the left or right side to offer added placement flexibility
- 40-quart capacity holds up to 44 cans
Coleman is a famous and old brand that makes coolers for a long time, so the product coming from them will be reliable. It provides the coolest possible temperature a cooler could. It won’t be wrong to say it’s a cross between a cooler and a refrigerator.
The upright position makes it unique amongst the others, and with the whopping 40 quarts storing ability, this cooler is becoming increasingly famous among the van lifers.
Features
The design of this cooler is unarguably the most innovative one. The cooler door can be opened from both sides, i.e., from both left and right.
It comes with two orientations; you can use it as a traditional ice chest or position it upright and get the refrigerator feels in your campervan. Coleman cooler is exceptionally lightweight (18 pounds) and easy to carry around.
Unlike others that can go only 36 degrees below the ambient temperature, this cooler can go 40, which means more efficient cooling.
No additional power source is required. It needs only 12 volts to work properly; therefore, it can work even with your car’s cigarette lighter receptacle.
Pros
It can be used both ways with dual orientations, as a traditional cooler or a van refrigerator.
The door opens in both ways.
Cools more than others in the market
Cons
It lacks a handle; therefore, carrying it around can be a task.
It’s big and bulky
No warmer included
Verdict
If you want things to be really chilled and can compromise on their large size, you must give this cooler a try. However, you know you can’t carry bulky things around when you’re off the grid always.
Knox Gear Electric Cooler and Warmer
- Durable and Portable: Tough hard shell coolers for unmatched insulation power. Whether you're travelling on the road or camping in an RV, camper or minivan, this large capacity storage container to heat and warm or cool and chill food and drink.
- Plugs in Anywhere: The cooler/warmer combo has 2 built in cords - one for standard wall outlets, and one for car power adapters. Both have storage compartments to be hidden when not in use.
- Vast Storage Space: This 48-quart large compact cooler stores about 60 cans of soda or 6 large 2-liter bottle with plenty of space for food & snacks. Portable and spacious.
- Chills without Ice: Forget ice packs that need constant refilling, take up precious space, and leave you with a watery mess when they melt. This igloo cooler maintains a cool 40-degree-F temp without any ice.
- Easy to Carry and Store: Our ergonomic handle and compact design make this electric ice chest/warmer on wheels easy to carry for even 1 person alone. It fits easily into car trunks and seats for bulk free travel
If you are looking for a basic and sturdy yet practical type of cooler, then this cooler is what you need. The impeccable design makes it easy to store. One useful feature this cooler offers is that you can make two compartments in it and keep your food and beverages separated by using a removable divider. With warmer settings option, this cooler doubles as a warmer, which means it will be your best van companion whole year-round. With an easy locking mechanism, the door remains tightly sealed to maintain the internal temperature and prevent accidental spills.
Features
It works both as a cooler and a warmer. All you need to do is to adjust the settings and get the chilliest drinks and warmest beverages on the go.
It comes with two power cords. One is standard, and the other one is for car adapters. You can plug it anywhere you want.
The storage space is 27 quarts, which is adequate for a single or a couple.
No ice packs are required to keep your things cool.
The ergonomic handle makes it a breeze to carry around.
It can easily fit anywhere in your van because of its small and ergonomic structure.
Pros
Ergonomic design
Efficient cooling
Sealing lock mechanism
Works as both cooler and warmer
Perfect size to be stored in a van
Plugs anywhere
Cons
Items required to be frozen if you want to keep them fresh for a long time
Verdict
If you are the one that likes basic hassle-free gadgets, then this cooler is the one you need. It works well enough to keep things fresh for a considerable period.
Massimo E-Kooler Electric Fridge Cooler
Want a cooler that works just as efficiently as a fridge? This cooler is the one for you. This cooler is the sturdiest option available in the market. The shock-proof design can withstand harsh outdoor life. Unlike the others that work on thermoelectric technology, this cooler uses a powerful compressor for the most efficient cooling.
It gets chilled quickly and can get cool down up to 0-degrees, which is quite impressive for a cooler. Its price can be overwhelming, but you won’t go back to others once you start using it.
Features
The whopping 50L capacity can store a considerable amount of your food and beverages.
The shock-proof technology makes it withstand the harsh outdoor environment.
It works on a 30L medium compressor cooling technology. The compressor is quiet and has adjustable HH and ECO modes.
It works both with AC and DC power adapters, so you don’t have to worry about the power source.
The innovative battery-protection circuit cuts of the power it senses any threat to your car battery.
The temperature can be adjusted using the LCD touch buttons, making it a breeze to use.
Due to its large size, wheels are given in the bottom for easy maneuver.
Pros
The sturdiest option
Provides the coolest temperature
Eco-friendly
Noiseless operation
Easy temperature adjustment
Cons
Large size
Very expensive
Verdict
While most of the van lifers prefer to use things as basic as possible, if you are the tech-savvy van lifer, this cooler is the one for you. The most innovative cooler unsurprisingly comes at the highest price; however, considering this cooler’s sturdiness, it can be your one-time investment.
Massimo E-Kooler Electric Fridge Cooler
Want a cooler that works just as efficiently as a fridge? This cooler is the one for you. This cooler is the sturdiest option available in the market. The shock-proof design can withstand harsh outdoor life. Unlike the others that work on thermoelectric technology, this cooler uses a powerful compressor for the most efficient cooling.
It gets chilled quickly and can get cool down up to 0-degrees, which is quite impressive for a cooler. Its price can be overwhelming, but you won’t go back to others once you start using it.
Features
The whopping 50L capacity can store a considerable amount of your food and beverages.
The shock-proof technology makes it withstand the harsh outdoor environment.
It works on a 30L medium compressor cooling technology. The compressor is quiet and has adjustable HH and ECO modes.
It works both with AC and DC power adapters, so you don’t have to worry about the power source.
The innovative battery-protection circuit cuts of the power it senses any threat to your car battery.
The temperature can be adjusted using the LCD touch buttons, making it a breeze to use.
Due to its large size, wheels are given in the bottom for easy maneuver.
Pros
The sturdiest option
Provides the coolest temperature
Eco-friendly
Noiseless operation
Easy temperature adjustment
Cons
Large size
Very expensive
Verdict
While most of the van lifers prefer to use things as basic as possible, if you are the tech-savvy van lifer, this cooler is the one for you. The most innovative cooler unsurprisingly comes at the highest price; however, considering this cooler’s sturdiness, it can be your one-time investment.
Igloo Iceless 40-Quart Cooler
- Igloo max cold cooler offer the ultimate in cold retention with ultratherm insulated lid and body
- Durable wheels and tow handle for easy transport to and from the event
- Ultratherm insulation in body and lid helps keep things cold
- Reinforced swing-up handles with tie-down loop
- 40 qt. Capacity and can hold up to 56 cans
Igloo specializes in manufacturing some impeccable coolers models; but, this model is one of their best. It works on thermoelectric technology but works just as efficiently as the ones with compressors. With two orientations, this cooler is easy to use. The cost can be a bit on the higher side than the others but worth every penny as it runs much cooler and is much quieter.
Features
This cooler is made up of propylene material, which is efficient in trapping cold or heat inside.
With a convection cooling fan, cold air is circulated throughout the unit.
You can use it as a refrigerator or an ice chest due to its dual orientation.
It uses 12 volts of power to work and can be connected easily to your car cigarette lighter.
Pros
Generous amount of space
Affordable
Portable and easy to carry around
Cools rapidly
Cons
The adapter stops working after some time.
Verdict
If you’re in search of an affordable big sized cooler, then this one can be your best investment.
Coleman PowerChill Hot/Cold Portable Thermoelectric Cooler, 40 Quart cooler
- Versatile hot/cold thermoelectric cooler keeps food items at an optimal temperature
- Keeps contents up to 40 degrees colder or warmer than the surroundings
- 8-foot power cord allows you to the power the cooler with a car or boat outlet
- Door opens from either the left or right side to offer added placement flexibility
- 40-quart capacity holds up to 44 cans
Coleman has its name when it comes to making quality camping products. The biggest perk of this cooler is its affordable price. It can go down up to 40 degrees than the ambient temperature, unlike other high-end thermoelectric ones that are capable of going 36 degrees only.
Features
With dual cold and hot temperature settings, you can chill your beverages in hot and humid weather and warm up your hot cocoa on freezing winter nights.
It can keep contents in it 40 degrees cooler than the ambient temperature.
The 8-foot long cord connects with your car or boat adapter.
The 40-quart capacity can house as much as 44 cans.
Pros
Cools almost in an instant
It can be powered by any adapter.
Impeccable customer service.
Affordable price
Cons
The air distributing fan heats up easily.
Requires appropriate maintenance
Verdict
What’s better than a cold and a hot unit in one cooler and that too at an amazing price?
