Coolbox and coolbag basics
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 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? 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 drink 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 and coolboxes
Passive coolbags and coolboxes 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 can be made from fabric or a harder plastic casing. While their cooling power is somewhat limited due to their reliance on ice packs, top-end models can still provide cooling for 2-3 days.
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.
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.
General cooling tips
Once you've 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.