Cool boxes and cooler bags

Which cool box suits you?

A compressor cool box cools and freezes down to minus 20 degrees whatever the outside temperature and runs on 12 V, 24 V and 230 V; the choice for motorhomes, caravans and southern Europe. A thermoelectric cool box cools 18 to 20 degrees below ambient and costs less; for campsites with hook-up and the drive. A passive cool box needs no power and keeps ice for up to five days with ice packs; for the beach, fishing and festivals. Cooler bags are light for picnics and shopping.

How many litres?

10 to 15 litres per person for a weekend. Two people: 25 to 30 litres. Family: 40 to 50 litres. Long trips or cooling and freezing at once: 60 litres or more, or a dual-zone box.

What to look for

• Power use: a compressor box averages 0.7 to 1 amp per hour on 12 V; a thermoelectric box draws a constant 40 to 60 watts.
• Battery guard: switches the box off before the car battery is flat.
• Insulation: thicker walls stay cold longer and save power.
• Lid and controls: opens both ways, app control, interior light.
• Size: measure the space in the car or motorhome; a 45-litre box is easily 70 cm long.

Brands

Dometic leads in compressor cool boxes (CFX3, CFF). Mestic offers compressor and thermoelectric boxes at a sharp price. Igloo stands for passive cool boxes that hold ice for days and the electric IE series. Campingaz and Coleman add cooler bags and powerboxes.

Frequently asked questions

How long does a compressor cool box run on the car battery?

Two to three days on a 100 Ah battery; with a battery guard the car always starts.

Can I use a cool box as a freezer?

Yes, all compressor models freeze down to minus 18 or minus 20 degrees.

Can I see the cool boxes in store?

Yes, Dometic, Mestic and Igloo are on display in our showroom in Roermond. See also Dometic, Mestic and Igloo.