Coolboxes Buyer's Guide
Coolbags, coolboxes, coolers, portable fridges, camping fridges – there are lots of ways to describe the containers that we use to help keep our food and drink deliciously cool while we’re heading off on a camping trip, staycation or long car journey.
In this guide we’re going to explore what types of coolbox are available and how you can narrow down the options to find the right fit for you.
How to choose the right coolbox for you
Before selecting a coolbox, it’s a good idea to have a think about your requirements. Here are some questions that can help you to pin down exactly what size and type of coolbox you need.
- Purpose and destination: What do you want to use your coolbox for? Will you be taking your lunch to work, having a family picnic on the beach or heading out on a camping holiday to the south of France? And do you need freezing as well as cooling capabilities?
- Capacity: How many people will you be catering for? What sort of items do you want to store? Will you have drinks bottles that you might need to store upright?
- Frequency: How often are you likely to use your coolbox? This could help to determine how much you’d like to spend.
- Power source: Will you have access to a power source, such as an in-car 12V socket or mains electricity? Or perhaps a rechargeable battery would be the most useful option?
- Portability: Do you need to be able to transport the coolbox a significant distance and if so, would you prefer to carry it or wheel it?
- Features: Are there any specific features you’re looking for and how important are they?
With those answers in mind, here are the different types of coolbox that you can choose from here at Halfords.
Types of coolboxes
There are three main types of coolbox: passive, thermoelectric and compressor. Each comes with its own unique features and benefits, and here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect.
Passive coolbags
Passive coolbags are cost-effective insulated containers that are suitable for picnics or days out.
They come in a variety of styles, sizes and price points, and are usually made of soft fabric.
Here is our favourite passive coolbag:
Halfords Striped 20L Coolbag
- 20 litre capacity
- Keeps contents cool for up to 6 hours
- Folds flat for travel and easy storage
The Halfords Striped 20L Coolbag is the perfect option for picnics, with its large, thickly insulated food and drink compartment.
The PVC-free lining is food safe, while the bonded seams help to contain spills and make the bag easy to wipe clean with a damp cloth. This coolbag pairs perfectly with the Halfords Large Ice Pack to keep your snacks extra fresh.
Thermoelectric coolboxes
Thermoelectric coolboxes or camping fridges are a great mid-range choice and ideal for long car journeys, weekends away and camping trips. They run off electricity and our range includes models that are powered by a mixture of your vehicle’s 12V socket, your truck’s 24V socket and mains power.
They also come in a variety of sizes and price points, with each boasting a tough casing that’s been designed for maximum durability. They can cool up to 16 – 18°C below the ambient temperature outside the coolbox and some also include the ability to keep food warm or adjust the temperature as you desire.
Here are two thermoelectric coolboxes that we’d particularly recommend.
Halfords 8 Litre 12V In-Car Electric Coolbox
- 8 litre capacity
- Powered by 12V in-car slot
- Cools up to 18°C below ambient temperature
The Halfords 8 Litre 12V In-Car Electric Coolbox will help to keep your food and drink cool, no matter how long your journey may be.
The clever design means the box can be secured to the rear middle seat of your car by using the seat belt, and it even comes with two external drinks holders and a USB charger so that you can power your devices will enjoying a lovely, chilled soft drink.
Halfords 40 Litre Mains and 12V & 24V Electric Coolbox
- 40 litre capacity
- Powered by 230V mains, 12V in-car slot or 24V in-truck slot
- Cools up to 16°C below ambient temperature
If you’re looking for a little more space, then the Halfords 40 Litre Mains and 12V & 24V Electric Coolbox is the answer.
Not only do you get the capacity to store 56 standard 330ml cans and various handy ways to generate cooling power, but the box also boasts a temperature control dial that you can use when it’s connected to the mains.
All of which adds up to an ideal coolbox for long journeys, weekends away and camping trips.
Compressor coolboxes
Compressor coolboxes, coolers or portable fridges are the most high-end type on the market, offering a range of clever features and sophisticated functionality for those with a larger budget. They’re the perfect choice for longer staycations and for use in caravans or campervans.
Available in a variety of sizes and price points, our compressor coolboxes allow you to set a specific temperature and actively cool your food. They’re much quieter to run than thermoelectric coolboxes and also more economical, with the units automatically switching off when they’ve reached your chosen temperature (and back on again when required to regulate that temperature).
Compressor coolboxes can also double as freezers, which means you can bring a much wider variety of foods with you on your adventures.
Here are two compressor coolboxes that it’s definitely worth taking a closer look at.
Halfords Advanced Compressor 32L Coolbox
- 32L Capacity can hold 47 standard 330ml cans
- Adjustable temperature control from -22 to +24 degrees
- Thickening PU insulation keeps the interior cold longer without connected power
The Halfords Advanced 32L Compressor Coolbox is temperature-controlled, allowing you to use it as a fridge or freezer. Powered by 12V or 24V, the coolbox also comes with a mains adaptor so you can use it at home as well as on the go. Its 30-litre capacity gives you plenty of room for drinks and snacks, making it perfect for long weekends and staycations.
Halfords Advanced 50L Compressor Coolbox
- 50L Capacity holds 70 standard 330ml cans
- Cup holders in the lid with an integrated bottle opener
- Adjustable temperature control from -22 to +24 degrees
The Halfords Advanced 50L Compressor Coolbox is perfect for long trips away, with a large 50L capacity, this coolbox can be converted into a fridge or freezer via the digital display screen.
The anti-vibration technology, sturdy wheels and a telescopic handle make it extremely portable and ideal for all outdoor activities, whilst the quiet operation won't disturb your sleep if you take this on holiday with you.
General cooling tips
Once you’re chosen a new coolbag, coolbox or cooler, here are some handy tips to help you get the most out of it:
- Pre-chill your food and drinks. The colder the items you put in your coolbox are, the longer they’ll remain cold.
- Keep your coolbox shut as much as possible. Every time you open the lid, it’ll let some of that cool air out so try not to keep it open for long periods. Filling your coolbox to the brim with food and drink can also help to reduce the amount of cool air that escapes.
- Add ice packs for extra cooling power. Ice packs are already a requirement for passive coolbags and coolboxes, but you can also add them to thermoelectric coolboxes to help keep the temperature down.