A cheap, compact fridge for car camping, with an optional battery for time away from the car.
Amazon $239.98 BougeRV $249.99 eBayUnder $250 gets you a compact compressor fridge, usually in the smaller capacities, that holds a steady temperature on a car or camp battery. Many are fine for weekend trips, though the cheaper compressors can be louder, the insulation thinner and the cases less rugged than on premium models.
Check the low-voltage cutoff, which protects your starter battery, and how much power the fridge draws in hot weather. Make sure the capacity fits your trips and the lid hinges and baskets suit your vehicle. Freezer-capable temperatures, a real power cord and a usable warranty are worth confirming before you buy.
Prices were last checked November 11, 2026. Product prices and availability are accurate as of that date and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon or the retailer's site at the time of purchase apply. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. As an eBay Partner, we may be compensated if you make a purchase.
Top Picks
Plenty of fridge for little money, for weekend camping where a 2-year warranty is enough.
Amazon $234.99 BougeRV $239.99 eBayA low-cost fridge from a general-goods brand, for occasional use. Expect only a 1-year warranty.
Amazon $215.91 eBayBest 12V Fridges Under $250: Small
- BougeRV CRX3 30QT#1 of 12Full review
A cheap, compact fridge for car camping, with an optional battery for time away from the car.
Amazon $239.98 BougeRV $249.99 eBay$239.98281-$8.57 - BougeRV CRX3 23QT#2 of 12Full review
A cheap, compact fridge for car camping, with an optional battery for time away from the car.
Amazon $189.99 BougeRV $209.99 eBay$189.99221-$8.64 - Alpicool C20#3 of 12Full review
A low-cost fridge for occasional camping, where price matters more than warranty or published data.
Amazon $169.99 eBay$169.9919.81-$8.59 - BougeRV CRH20 21QT#4 of 12Full review
A small, battery-ready fridge for drinks and lunch. The price per liter is high, as for every small fridge.
BougeRV $199.99 eBay$199.99201-$10.00 - Costway AX10013 23QT#5 of 12Full review
A low-cost fridge for occasional use, with a 1-year warranty.
Amazon $145.99 eBay$145.9921.81-$6.70 - Alpicool C15#6 of 12Full review
A low-cost fridge for occasional camping, where price matters more than warranty or published data.
Amazon $139.99 eBay$139.9915.31-$9.15 - Alpicool Y16T#7 of 12Full review
A low-cost fridge for occasional camping, where price matters more than warranty or published data.
Amazon $139.99 eBay$139.99151-$9.33 - Euhomy Rover A1 19QT#8 of 12Full review
A low-cost fridge for occasional use. The 1-year warranty is the trade-off.
Euhomy $149.99 eBay$149.99181-$8.33 - Alpicool MG9#9 of 12Full review
A low-cost fridge for occasional camping, where price matters more than warranty or published data.
Amazon $119.99 eBay$119.998.71-$13.79 - VEVOR NL12 12L#10 of 12Full review
A low-cost fridge from a general-goods brand, for occasional use. Expect only a 1-year warranty.
Amazon $150.90 eBay$150.90121-$12.58 - BougeRV CRH 9QT#11 of 12Full review
A small, battery-ready fridge for drinks and lunch. The price per liter is high, as for every small fridge.
BougeRV $151.99 eBay$151.998.81-$17.27 - VEVOR C9 10QT#12 of 12Full review
A low-cost fridge from a general-goods brand, for occasional use. Expect only a 1-year warranty.
Amazon $106.16 eBay$106.1691200$11.80
Best 12V Fridges Under $250: Mid-size
- BougeRV CRS 42QT#1 of 5Full review
Plenty of fridge for little money, for weekend camping where a 2-year warranty is enough.
Amazon $234.99 BougeRV $239.99 eBay$234.99401-$5.87 - VEVOR FE40 40L EPP#2 of 5Full review
A cheap, light cooler-style fridge for chilling drinks and food, not for freezing.
Amazon $179.90 eBay$179.90401-$4.50 - Euhomy Rover H1 45L#3 of 5Full review
A low-cost fridge for occasional use. The 1-year warranty is the trade-off.
Euhomy $229.99 eBay$229.99451-$5.11 - Euhomy Rover H1 35L#4 of 5Full review
A low-cost fridge for occasional use. The 1-year warranty is the trade-off.
Euhomy $199.99 eBay$199.99351-$5.71 - Euhomy Rover W2 37QT#5 of 5Full review
A low-cost fridge for occasional use. The 1-year warranty is the trade-off.
Euhomy $209.99 eBay$209.99351-$6.00
Best 12V Fridges Under $250: Large
- VEVOR MCD50D1 50L#1 of 1Full review
A low-cost fridge from a general-goods brand, for occasional use. Expect only a 1-year warranty.
Amazon $215.91 eBay$215.91501-$4.32