Top Camping Fridges to Buy in the UK

Jun 13, 2025

Need a camping refrigerator but don’t fancy a wild goose chase? Short answer: Amazon, GO Outdoors, and Argos are your best bets. But wait—should you go electric, compressor, or the mysterious “absorption” type? Keep reading to avoid buying a glorified lunchbox for your next trip.

The Top Places to Find Your Perfect Camping Fridge

Major Online Retailers and Marketplaces

Amazon UK: The Go-To for Variety and Fast Delivery

Amazon offers a wide range of camping fridges from well-known brands. It’s ideal for browsing specifications, comparing features, and reading customer feedback.

You’ll often find competitive prices and next-day delivery options, which make it a solid first stop. Whether you need a compact coolbox or a high-end compressor fridge, Amazon usually has it in stock.

Dometic tall caravan fridge with a closed black front door and silver side panels, on a white background.

eBay UK: For New, Refurbished, and Second-Hand Deals

eBay is another great option for camping refrigerators. You’ll find new models, refurbished units, and second-hand options—often at lower prices.

Many sellers offer local collection or tracked delivery. Just be sure to check the seller’s ratings and return policy before committing.

Reading Reviews and Understanding Your Consumer Rights

Before buying, it’s wise to read recent reviews to spot any common issues. This helps you make a more informed choice.

Also, ensure the retailer complies with UK consumer law. If something goes wrong, you’ll want to know your rights for returns, repairs, or refunds.

Specialised Camping and Outdoor Leisure Stores

Why Visit a Specialist? (Expert Advice, Seeing it in Person)

Specialist stores offer more than just products—they offer advice from experienced staff.

You can see the fridge in person, check its build quality, and even test how it fits in your boot. This hands-on approach can be valuable if you’re new to camping gear.

Major UK Camping Retailers (e.g., GO Outdoors, Millets, Towsure)

GO Outdoors, Millets, and Towsure carry a broad selection of camping fridges. From compact electric coolboxes to large compressor units, you’ll find plenty of options in-store and online.

They often run seasonal promotions, so you might score a good deal during sales events.

Caravan, Motorhome, and 4x4 Accessory Shops

If you travel by campervan or 4x4, specialist accessory shops are worth a look. These stores often carry rugged and vehicle-specific models.

Some even offer installation services for built-in fridge units. Ideal for long-haul adventures.

Dometic portable chest fridge with lid open and external compressor unit, on a white background.

Buying Directly from High-Performance Brands

Benefits of Buying Direct (Full Warranty, Customer Support)

Buying directly from a manufacturer ensures full warranty coverage. You also get access to official customer support if issues arise.

Brands often have the most up-to-date stock on their websites, including new releases and exclusive bundles.

Popular Brands with UK Distribution (e.g., Dometic, Engel, Alpicool)

Top brands like Dometic, Engel, and Alpicool have official UK distributors. Their websites usually link to trusted stockists or allow direct purchase.

These brands are known for their durability, cooling performance, and customer service—making them popular among seasoned campers.

Key Considerations Before You Make a Purchase

Online vs. In-Store: Which Shopping Method is Best for You?

The Advantages of a Physical Store (Checking Size, Build Quality, No Delivery Fees)

Shopping in person lets you examine the fridge for size, finish, and overall build quality.

You avoid potential damage during shipping, and some stores offer carry-out discounts or bundle deals.

The Convenience and Price Comparison of Online Shopping

Online retailers let you compare prices, specs, and customer ratings without leaving home. This is ideal if you’re busy or already know what you want.

Just double-check delivery fees and lead times, especially if you need the fridge quickly.

Dometic absorption fridge with both freezer and fridge compartments open, showing empty shelves and door bins, on a white background.

Making a Smart Choice: New vs. Used

Where to Find Second-Hand Bargains (e.g., Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree, eBay)

Used camping fridges can offer great value. Try Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree, or eBay for local deals or collection-only offers.

Just remember to factor in travel costs if collecting in person.

What to Inspect When Buying a Used Fridge

Always test the fridge before buying. Ensure it powers on, cools properly, and has no strange smells.

Check seals for cracks, inspect the casing for damage, and confirm the power cable is intact. A quick test run can save a costly mistake.

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