Caravan Fridge Freezer Buying Guide: Types, Sizes and Prices (Australia)

A built-in caravan fridge freezer typically runs from:

• 50 to 80 litres for a compressor upright.
• 90 to 190 litres for a larger three-way absorption unit.
• 15 to 60 litres for portable chest and combi fridge freezers used in caravans and camper trailers.

Prices in Australia spanning roughly $400 for a compact portable up to $3,000 for a large three-way built-in.

Picking the right caravan fridge or freezer comes down to three things:

1. how much space you have to fit one.
2. How many people you're feeding. 
3. how you plan to power it off-grid.

This guide walks through caravan fridge freezer sizes, the main types on the market, current Australian price bands, and what to check before you buy.

Caravan Fridges and Freezers Come in Three Common Types

Most caravan fridge freezers sold in Australia fall into one of three categories.

1. Built-in upright compressor fridges

These sit permanently in a cabinet cutout, similar to a household fridge but sized down for van life. Brands like Engel's upright range run on 12V, 24V and 240V power and typically hold 50 to 80 litres.

2. Built-in three-way absorption fridges

Common in larger touring vans, these run on gas, 12V or 240V and don't rely on a compressor. Thetford's absorption range is the main option in this category, with capacities from around 90 up to 190 litres.

3. Portable chest and combi fridge freezers

These sit loose in the van or tow vehicle and can be lifted out for camp use. Engel and myCOOLMAN both offer portable fridge freezers from around 15 litres up to 60 litres, with combi models splitting fridge and freezer space inside one unit.

Caravan Fridge Sizes and Capacity Guide

The table below sets out common caravan fridge freezer sizes against typical use.

Check the current fridge and freezer range for up to date pricing on each model.

Compressor vs Three-Way (Absorption) vs Portable Fridges

Each fridge type suits a different way of travelling.

Compressor fridges

Compressor fridges cool faster, hold temperature more consistently, and work at any angle, which makes them the standard choice for off-grid touring. They draw 12V or 24V power and pair well with a solar and battery setup.

Three-way absorption fridges

Absorption fridges can run on gas, 12V or 240V, which suits caravan parks with easy access to gas bottles or mains power. They need to sit close to level to cool properly and generally cool slower than a compressor unit.

Portable fridges

Portable fridges double as an esky for day trips and can move between the caravan, tow vehicle, and campsite. They give up permanent cabinet integration for flexibility, and most run on 12V, 24V or 240V.

How to Choose the Right Caravan Fridge Freezer Size

Match the fridge size to how you actually travel, not just how big the cabinet space is.

• Solo or weekend trips: a 15 to 25 litre portable fridge freezer is usually enough.
• Couples on short to medium trips: look at 32 to 45 litre portable or combi models.
• Couples on extended touring: a 50 to 80 litre upright compressor fridge gives more storage without eating too much cabinet space.
• Families or full-timers: 80 litres and up, or a 90 to 190 litre three-way absorption fridge, gives enough room for a full grocery shop between stops.

If you're unsure, our 12V/24V caravan fridge freezer technical guide covers power draw and wiring in more depth.

Fit, Cutout Size and Compatibility

Built-in fridges need to match your existing cabinet cutout, or you'll be modifying cabinetry to fit a replacement.

Cutout and vent dimensions vary by model, so check the exact specifications on the product page or contact us before ordering.

Power and Venting Considerations

Absorption fridges need an external vent to release heat, which is why they're normally fitted with a fridge vent and flue kit. Compressor fridges don't need external venting in the same way, but they do draw more directly from your battery bank.

If you're running a fridge off-grid for extended periods, pair it with adequate solar and battery capacity. Exact daily power draw depends on the model, ambient temperature and how often the door opens, so check the fridge's specification sheet rather than relying on a general estimate.

Fridge Accessories Worth Adding

A few accessories make day-to-day fridge use easier, whether it's built-in or portable.

• Drop slides to safely lower a heavy portable fridge for access
• Transit bags to protect a portable fridge in transit
• Fridge and freezer thermometers to monitor temperature on the road
• Baskets and dividers to keep contents organised inside a portable fridge

FAQ

What size fridge do I need for a caravan?

Most couples touring for a week or more do well with a 50 to 80 litre upright compressor fridge. Solo travellers and weekenders can usually get by with a 15 to 25 litre portable fridge freezer.

Is a compressor fridge better than a three-way fridge for caravan use?

Compressor fridges cool faster and work at any angle, which suits off-grid touring. Three-way fridges suit travellers who mostly stay at powered or gas-equipped caravan parks and want the flexibility to run off gas.

Can I run a caravan fridge freezer on solar power?

Yes, compressor fridges are commonly run on solar and battery power, provided the system is sized for the fridge's draw. Check your fridge's power specifications against your solar and battery setup before relying on it fully off-grid.

Do caravan fridges need external venting?

Three-way absorption fridges need an external vent and flue to release heat safely. Compressor fridges generally don't need the same external venting setup.

What's the difference between a caravan fridge and a portable fridge?

A caravan fridge is built into a fixed cabinet cutout, while a portable fridge freezer is a standalone unit you can lift out and take to the campsite or beach. Portable fridges trade some capacity for flexibility.