Advantages & Disadvantages of 12V Coolers for Camping
The 12-volt cooler is a convenient product for camping but it does come with several disadvantages. The coolers are available in several different sizes under different brands. All of the coolers require a 12-volt outlet and the size of the cooler will dictate the amount of energy consumed.
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Portability
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Most 12-volt coolers come in portable designs for camping. They are easy to load in a vehicle and take on your next trip. They are also much lighter than a portable refrigerator and they do not require hardware for a permanent installation. The coolers are easily stored in bear-proof containers at campgrounds and can be moved to desired locations by a single person.
Food Storage
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The coolers are ideal for storing food while you drive to the camping spot but the temperature will begin to rise after three hours without power. You must either provide a constant power supply throughout the duration of the camping trip or only use the cooler for temporary food storage. Traditional coolers have an advantage as they can keep food for several days with a bag of ice.
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Power
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Power is the major disadvantage of the coolers for camping purposes. The coolers are effective if you camp in an recreational vehicle that is connected to a power source or has a large battery pack for auxiliary power. Tent campers will find the cooler nearly useless once they have parked at the camping site, as they generally can only power the cooler from their car's 12-volt outlet. They can, however, use it for dry food storage while camping.
Expense
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Twelve-volt coolers cost more than traditional ice coolers but they do not require ice refills to provide cold storage. If you only plan on using the cooler while driving to the campsite and for a few hours after you arrive, it is cost effective. If you want to keep food at a campsite for several days, the powered cooler will cost more in electricity than the amount of ice required for a traditional ice chest.
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References
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