Whether it's a camping adventure, a day at the beach or a picnic in the park - a reliable cool box is the perfect companion for your outdoor activities. But the choice is huge and there are big differences between the various systems. In this detailed guide, you'll find out everything you need to know to choose the perfect cooler.
Table of contents
These cooler types are available
Passive coolers
Thermoelectric coolers
Absorber coolers
Compressor coolers
Which cooler is right for you?
Energy supply and consumption: what you need to know
Finding the right size
Practical accessories for optimum cooling
Conclusion
These cooler types are available
Whether passive or electrically operated: The selection of coolers is huge. To help you keep track, we'll briefly introduce you to the most important systems:
Passive cool boxes: the practical companion for day trips
Passive cool boxes are the classic option for short trips. They work completely without electricity and instead rely on high-quality insulation in combination with cool packs. Our Petromax cool boxes are an excellent example: Thanks to their particularly effective insulation, they keep food and drinks pleasantly cool for up to 12 days!
The cooling capacity of a passive box depends on several factors: the quality of the insulation, the quantity and temperature of the ice packs as well as the outside temperature. On very hot summer days, the cooling capacity naturally decreases more quickly than in milder temperatures. A clever trick: fill the box with pre-cooled drinks and cool packs the evening before so that it starts the next day optimally cooled.
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Thermoelectric coolers: the versatile all-rounders
Thermoelectric coolers are true all-rounders. They work with an electrical system that transports the heat from the interior to the outside. With a 12V connection for the car and the option of 230V operation, they are generally particularly flexible to use. The special feature: depending on the direction of current flow, these boxes can not only cool, but also keep warm - practical if you want to transport a hot meal on the go.
The cooling capacity of these systems is typically around 15-22°C below the ambient temperature. This means that at an outside temperature of 25°C, the box reaches internal temperatures of around 3-10°C. This is perfectly adequate for most drinks and many foods. However, you should not transport frozen food in these boxes.
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Absorber coolers: the quiet endurance runners
Absorber coolers are the specialists for continuous operation. These systems work almost silently and according to a fascinating principle: a coolant is vaporized by the supply of heat, thereby removing the heat from the interior. The special feature: This process is completely silent, as no moving parts are required.
The cooling capacity of an absorber box is around 25°C below the ambient temperature. However, these systems are relatively sensitive to installation - they must be positioned as horizontally as possible for the cooling circuit to function optimally. Nevertheless, the flexibility of the energy supply makes them a popular choice for campers: you can run them on 12V, 230V or even gas.
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Compressor coolers: the powerhouses
When it comes to pure cooling capacity, compressor coolers are the measure of all things. They work on the same principle as your fridge at home and reach temperatures of up to -22°C. This makes them the only option if you also want to transport frozen food.
Another big advantage: the cooling capacity remains constant even at high outside temperatures. Even at 35°C in the shade, a compressor box reliably cools down to the set temperature. The only disadvantage is that the compressor makes a slight humming noise when it is working. However, the most modern models are now so well insulated that the noise level is usually below 45 dB(A) - roughly equivalent to the volume of a quiet conversation.
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Which cooler is right for you?
A cool box is indispensable when it comes to keeping food and drinks cool on the go. But which cooler is best suited to your needs? Here you will find an overview of which type of cooler is best suited for different purposes.
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Cool box for on the go
On long car journeys or on the way to a vacation, it's handy to have your own food and drink to hand. An electric car cooler is ideal for such journeys. This can be operated with either a compressor or an absorber. The contents remain reliably cooled via the 12-volt connection in the car (e.g. on the cigarette lighter) - without bulky cooling elements that take up space. Many models also have a conventional plug so that they can also be used in tents or vacation homes.
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Cool box for day trips
Whether it's a day at the beach, a picnic in the park or a visit to the amusement park - a passive cool box or cool bag is perfect for shorter trips. These are lightweight, handy and only need a few cooling elements to keep food and drinks fresh. If you like it particularly convenient, you can also choose a cool backpack that is easy to transport.
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Cool box for tent or folding caravan
When camping with a tent or folding caravan, it is important to have a reliable cooling option with you. Passive cool boxes are an option, but an electric version is worthwhile for longer stays. You can choose between a compressor or an absorption cooler. A compressor cooler is ideal for warm regions, as it cools effectively even at high temperatures. In cooler areas, on the other hand, a quiet absorption cooler is often sufficient.
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Cool box for caravan or motorhome
Traveling with a caravan or motorhome often offers the advantage of a built-in refrigerator. This can be operated via the vehicle battery so that cooling is also maintained during the journey. However, at high outside temperatures, the battery is not always sufficient to supply the refrigerator permanently. It is therefore advisable to pre-cool the refrigerator well before setting off - for example with frozen drinks or ice packs, which keep the temperature stable for longer.
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Cool box for the campsite
Many campsites offer the option of using communal fridges or freezers - often for a small fee. If you prefer to be independent, you can often rent private fridges for your pitch. Alternatively, you can use your own cool box to keep food fresh. It is important to take enough cooling elements with you. Many campsites allow you to cool them in freezer compartments free of charge or for a fee. This will keep your provisions fresh for longer.
Energy supply and consumption: what you need to know
The choice of power supply is a decisive factor for the usability of your cool box. Here are the most important facts about the various options:
Power supply on the go
12V connections are standard for mobile use. Most electric coolers can be operated directly from the on-board socket of your car or camper. However, there are significant differences in power consumption:
- Thermoelectric systems consume approx. 3.75 Ah / h (90 Ah / day) (lower consumption possible, depending on the cooling system)
- Absorber boxes require approx. 7 Ah / h (168 Ah / day)
- Compressor models are the most economical at approx. 1 Ah / h (24 Ah / day) (best-case scenario depending on ambient temperature and individual use)
An important tip: Use a voltage monitor for longer periods of downtime, which automatically switches off the cooler before the car battery becomes too discharged.
Mains operation and alternative energy sources
For stationary use on the campsite or at home, most electric coolers also offer a 230V connection. Absorber boxes also boast the option of gas operation - ideal for places without a power connection.
Find the right size
The volume of your cool box should depend on several factors:
- Number of people
- Duration of the trip
- Type of food to be cooled
- Available storage space
- Weight limit
As a rule of thumb, allow around 2-3 liters per person per day for drinks and perishable food. If you are mainly planning to chill drinks, less is often sufficient. For a weekend trip for two, a 15-20 liter box is usually sufficient. For longer trips or larger groups, you should plan for more volume.
Practical accessories for optimum cooling performance
A cool box is a practical companion for on the go - with the right accessories, it becomes even more versatile and efficient. We'll tell you which accessories are particularly useful for your cool box.
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Mains adapter
A mains adapter is essential if you also want to operate a 12V/230V cool box from a normal power socket - for example at home, in a vacation home or at the campsite. This allows you to use your cool box flexibly, regardless of whether a 12V connection is available.
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Voltage monitor
A voltage monitor is a useful addition for 12V coolers that are operated via the car's cigarette lighter. It ensures that your vehicle's battery is not excessively discharged. The voltage monitor is simply connected between the cigarette lighter and the cool box and automatically interrupts the power supply if the battery becomes too low. This leaves enough power to start the car safely.
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Cooling elements
Cooling elements are a must for passive cool boxes to keep food and drinks fresh for longer periods of time. Before use, place the cooling elements in the freezer compartment for 2-4 hours until they are completely frozen. Most cooling elements are food-safe and dishwasher-safe. Make sure to match the number and size of the cooling elements to the volume of your cool box to ensure optimum cooling.
Professional tip: If you opt for a passive cool box from Petromax, you not only benefit from 12 days of cooling capacity, but also from a wide range of high-quality accessories. From insert baskets to seat cushions, everything is included! Take a look: Cool box accessories
Conclusion: The perfect cool box for your needs
Choosing the right cooler depends on many factors. For day trips and short trips, a passive box like the Petromax is usually the best choice - inexpensive, light and without energy requirements. Camping fans who are away for longer periods of time are best off with a compressor box - it offers maximum cooling capacity and is reliable even at high temperatures.
Thermoelectric boxes are the perfect choice for anyone who values flexibility and does not need to transport frozen food. Absorber systems impress with their silent operation and the option of gas operation.
Think about your decision:
- How long and where do you want to use the box?
- What energy supply is available?
- How important are cooling capacity and energy consumption to you?
- Does the noise level play a role?
With this information, you are guaranteed to find the cooler that best suits your requirements!
Want to perfect your equipment for your next outdoor adventure? Also discover our other articles and learn more about practical Petromax products for every situation!
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