Keep Food and Drinks Cold Wherever You Go
A portable 12V fridge freezer is built for life on the move. It can run from your boat battery, a vehicle 12V socket, or a portable power station. Many models also run on 240V so you can pre-chill before you leave. Read Brass Monkey: the ultimate camping accessory for setup ideas.
Unlike a traditional chilly bin, a portable fridge delivers reliable cooling without ice. That means no soggy food, no top-ups, and no draining meltwater. Temperature stays consistent even on hot summer days. For longer trips, your meat stays safe, milk stays fresh, and bait stays frozen while you enjoy the water or the road.
Quality units handle vibration and moderate tilt, so they keep running underway or on rough tracks. Pair with our portable power for off-grid adventures guide to plan your power setup.
Brass Monkey: New CFR Range and Established Models
Brass Monkey is our go-to portable refrigeration brand for boating, camping and 4WD travel. The latest CFR series runs on 12V and 24V DC with efficient compressor cooling in a compact footprint:
- Brass Monkey fridge freezer 30L (CFR30, 12/24V DC)
- Brass Monkey fridge freezer 40L (CFR40, 12/24V DC)
- Brass Monkey fridge freezer 50L (CFR50, 12/24V DC)
Our established Brass Monkey range remains a core part of the line and is here for the long haul, including wheeled and compact options:
- Brass Monkey 15L, 22L and 25L
- Brass Monkey 35L wheeled and 45L wheeled
- Brass Monkey 50L wheeled
- Brass Monkey 75L and 95L wheeled
Engel Portable Fridges
We stock the Engel MR40F portable fridge freezer (38L) as our main Engel model. Other Engel sizes can often be ordered on request: contact us or call 0800 10 20 41 and we will help.
Choose the Right Size for Your Vessel
Capacity is one of the biggest decisions. You want enough room without wasting deck or cargo space.
15L to 25L
Ideal for smaller trailer boats, day fishing or short camping trips. Compact units such as the Brass Monkey 15L fit behind seats or in tight storage and are easy to lift in and out.
35L to 50L
A popular choice for weekends and overnighters. The CFR40, CFR50 and wheeled 35L to 50L models give room for food and drinks for a couple of days. Many offer dual-zone fridge and freezer use.
75L to 95L
Best for extended trips, live-aboard vessels or larger family travel. The Brass Monkey 75L and 95L wheeled models include dual lids and wheels for easier transport.
What to Look for in a Boat Fridge
Choose a 12V fridge built for movement, limited power and real outdoor conditions.
- Dual fridge and freezer: run one compartment as a fridge and one as a freezer
- Low power draw: built-in low-voltage cut-out to protect your starting battery
- Multiple power options: 12V, 24V and 240V, plus optional Brass Monkey lithium batteries or 100W solar blanket for fridges
- Durability: handles vibration and moderate tilt on water or rough roads
- Easy controls: digital display, LED lighting and simple temperature adjustment
Fridge Accessories and Power
Get the most from your setup with refrigeration accessories:
- Brass Monkey 12/24V portable ice maker V2
- Brass Monkey lithium battery 7.8Ah and 15.6Ah
- Brass Monkey 240V power supply, 12/24V power lead for fridges and Anderson solar input lead
- Transformer 230V to 12V 7.5A and 12.5A
- Portable fridge 240V power adaptor (Engel)
- Protective covers for CFR and classic sizes, including CFR30, CFR40, CFR50, plus 25L, 35L, 45L and 75L covers
- Folding HD aluminium fridge stand, portable fridge stand and fridge thermometer
Power your fridge at camp with a 230V camping power lead (15m) or extra 12V sockets and USB outlets in your vehicle or vessel.
Shop 12V Fridges and Portable Power at Burnsco
Burnsco has compact fridges for day trips through to large wheeled units for extended adventures. Browse 12V coolers online or visit your nearest Burnsco store to compare models in person.
Call 0800 10 20 41 or contact us for help choosing the right fridge, power lead or accessory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a 12V fridge work with my boat's existing electrics?
In most cases, yes. A 12V fridge plugs into a standard 12V socket or can be hard-wired to your boat system. Many units include low-battery protection. Use a suitable power lead and check capacity if you are unsure. Contact us for advice.
Can I run a 12V boat fridge from a portable power station?
Yes. Many portable fridge freezers run from a compatible power station or Brass Monkey lithium battery pack. Check wattage and current draw against your power source so it runs for the time you need.
Can I use a boat fridge for camping or road trips as well?
Yes. Brass Monkey and Engel portable fridges are designed for flexibility on boats, campsites, caravans and road trips. If it runs on 12V or 240V, it can go wherever your adventure takes you.
