we forked out for one of these http://www.worldofcamping.co.uk/dometic_waeco_combicool_rc1700_egp_3-way_camping_fridge_2011__97_103_3408
Previously had an electric cooler box and its not advisable to run them constant and didn't cool down enough in summer. This one still managed fine in 35c in Belgium.
------------- Taffy
2012 Planned
Easter - Cornwall
July scout camp
August North Wales
Much cheaper than a "proper" 3-way absorbtion fridge and does a better job.
In theory, it will be less reliable in the long term as fridges aren't supposed to be moved around much but in reality, it'll last years and work just like the fridge at home cos that's what it actually is.
I used to use a Coleman coolbox 12/240v. It was okay but only lasted 3 seasons and the fan made a hell of a noise.
Forked out for a Dometic RC1600 last year and never looked back especially as we now look to go without EHU and it can run on gas. Loads of room, silent, no moving parts, keeps the beer cold and even freezes ice cubes for the wife's G+T!!! Only down side is it's a bit on the heavy side.
we have a 3way Dometic 40LTR Fridge its spot on,no worrying about melting ice packs,or noisy fans as fitted to cheaper coolboxes.The only downside with the 3way is getting temperature right as it can get really cold to the point of freezing everything.We bought ours 2nd hand for £70 i think its at least 10years old but the design is still current.
We have the pennine pathfinder with the 3 way fridge and I was happy with that but yesterday my missus was at a car boot sale and bought a brand spanking new (still in its box) warmer/cooler box, looks like a miniture fridge, for a tenner.
I tried it out last night and it works a treat.
I think the hum from the fan might be a bit annoyong at night and so I switched it off before going to bed last night and everything was still cool this morning.
So I guess from here on in we will be running both the fridge, for food and the coolbox for the cans.