There are plenty of pros and cons to each type of camper refrigerator, so do your research and decide which is best for you!
The Dometic CFX3 series is the top-of-the-line when it comes to 12V DC fridges for vanlife. They are extremely energy efficient, packed with advanced digital features, and come from Dometic’s well-known pedigree of rugged and innovative mobile living appliances. The biggest drawback is higher cost, but this may be worth it for you if you want the best of the best.
Another excellent choice is the Alpicool CFX-S. This fridge uses a simple cooling process triggered by heat that causes the refrigerant to change from liquid to vapor, and then back to liquid again. This cools the fridge without any compressor or absorption cycles, and requires less intense insulation than other RV fridges. This fridge is also a great value and can be purchased for a very reasonable price.
Remember to keep your fridge closed as much as possible and to periodically inspect the fridge for leaks or a dirty gasket. This will help it work more efficiently and will prevent your food from spoiling. If you have a hard time keeping the fridge cold, try parking your RV in the shade, or using a fan to help draft the hot air away from the fridge. Installing a 12-volt fan to remove excess heat from the fridge can improve performance by up to 40 percent. camper refrigerator