What Size Fridge Should You Get for Your Camper?

Ever tried fitting a week’s groceries into a shoebox? That’s camper life without the right fridge. Short answer: most camper fridges range from 40L to 120L, depending on your van size and trip style. From compact coolers to family-sized beasts, Camping Refrigerators are all about smart space, power use, and comfort.


Understanding Camper Refrigerator Sizes: From Compact to Residential

Choosing the right fridge size for your camper makes all the difference on a trip. With so many types available, it’s important to match the fridge to your space, storage needs, and travel plans.

Here’s how camper refrigerators vary in size — from tiny units for weekend getaways to residential-style giants for long-term living.

Common Camper & RV Fridge Size Ranges

Camper fridge sizes can vary widely. The right one depends on your layout, group size, and the length of your typical trips.

Small & Portable Fridges (e.g., ~1–4 cubic feet / 20–60 Litres)

Compact fridges are ideal for van conversions and short getaways. They:

  • Fit easily into tight spaces

  • Use very little power

  • Provide just enough storage for the essentials

Dometic compact fridge with the door open, displaying milk, eggs, fruit, and drinks neatly arranged inside, on a white background.
Ideal for: Van conversions, weekend trips, solo travellers/couples

If you're a light packer or camping solo, this size is often more than enough. It keeps the essentials cool without taking up much room.

Mid-Sized Built-In RV Fridges (e.g., ~5–8 cubic feet / 140–225 Litres)

Mid-sized fridges strike a good balance between storage and efficiency. They:

  • Hold enough for a few days on the road

  • Work well in a range of camper types

  • Tend to be more energy-efficient than larger units

Ideal for: Most travel trailers, smaller motorhomes, families

This is the sweet spot for many campers. You get decent space without compromising too much on power or weight.

Large RV & Residential-Style Fridges (e.g., ~9+ cubic feet / 250+ Litres)

These larger fridges offer generous storage and extra features. They:

  • Are suitable for extended travel or full-time living

  • Include separate freezer compartments and smart settings

  • May require more power and space

Ideal for: Larger motorhomes, fifth wheels, full-time RVers

If you're travelling for weeks or living on the road, this size gives you the comfort and convenience of home refrigeration.

Thetford compressor fridge with top and bottom doors open, showing a well-stocked interior with drinks, vegetables, and dairy, on a white background.

Factors Determining the Right Fridge Size for Your Camper

Getting the right size fridge means thinking beyond litres. You need to match your fridge to how you travel and what your camper can handle.

Camper Type and Available Space (Cutout Dimensions)

Start with measuring the space where your fridge will go. Check the height, width, and depth. Don’t forget to leave extra room for air flow and electrical connections.

Travel Style: Trip Duration & Number of People

A couple heading out for a weekend has different needs than a family on a two-week road trip. The more people and the longer the journey, the more storage you’ll need.

Power Source & Fridge Type (12V, Absorption, Residential)

The fridge you choose must match your available power.

  • Compressor fridges are efficient and work well off solar or batteries

  • Absorption fridges offer flexible power options but use more energy

  • Residential-style fridges are spacious but require reliable 230V or inverter setups


Measuring for a New or Replacement Camper Fridge

Installing or replacing a fridge? Get the measuring tape out before you buy.

Key Dimensions: Height, Width, Depth of the Opening

Measure the dimensions of your cabinet space carefully. Double-check that your chosen fridge will fit with all doors and drawers closed.

Considerations for Ventilation and Door Swing

Make sure there’s space for the fridge to breathe. Ventilation is key to efficient cooling and safety. Also, ensure the door can open fully without hitting walls or fixtures.


Beyond Size: Types of Camper Fridges and What They Mean for Capacity

Fridge types don’t just affect power use — they also impact how much space you actually get inside.

Overview of Camper Fridge Types and Their Typical Size Implications

Different cooling systems suit different setups. Here’s what to know:

Compressor Refrigerators (12V and 230V options)

Compressor fridges cool quickly and efficiently. They work well on uneven ground and are ideal for off-grid use. Great for small to mid-size campers.

Dometic  fridge with both doors wide open, displaying empty shelves and compartments, on a white background.
Absorption Refrigerators (2-way vs. 3-way power)

These fridges can run on gas, 12V, or 230V power. They’re nearly silent and very versatile, but take longer to cool and need to be level to operate properly.

Portable/Chest-Style Fridge/Freezers

These are flexible and often used as backups or primary fridges in minimalist setups. Chest-style units usually offer better insulation and are easier to pack.

 

 

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