ICECO APL20

With the growing popularity of overlanding, it's crucial to have reliable gear that can stand up to the rigors of off-road travel. The Iceco refrigerator, which I recently had the chance to test out, seems to fit the bill perfectly. Crafted from sturdy aluminum, this fridge gives off a heavy-duty vibe, similar in appearance to top-tier Alubox or Zarges cases.

Not only does it boast a rugged exterior, it has also demonstrated impressive energy efficiency. I tested it in the shop, running off a Bluetti AC70 power station, and it sipped power remarkably well. In freezer mode, the fridge maintained a temperature of about 15°, impressively freezing bottles of water while still consuming minimal energy. 

Design and Build

Iceco clearly deserves credit for the design. The all-aluminum construction not only looks great, but it also makes the refrigerator stackable and incredibly lightweight; an important feature when considering the weight restrictions of an overland rig.

Despite its lightweight build, the refrigerator does not compromise on durability. The metal construction feels robust and is reassuringly sturdy. This also means it can be fitted into a variety of vehicles – it's a versatile choice whether it's being slotted into my FJ or my wife Natalia's Toyota RAV4.

Performance and Energy Efficiency

The key to any overlanding refrigerator is its energy consumption. With the Iceco, I'm impressed by the efficiency, even in freezer mode. It manages to run for a week on a 768Wh battery like the Blueitti AC70. Additionally, in regular refrigerator mode, it was effective in keeping the content perfectly chilled while using remarkably little power.

Convenience and Portability

In terms of usability, I appreciate the refrigerator's portability and size. During a 4-hour drive to visit family during the holiday season, I could easily transport the unit, powered entirely by the portable battery, and it performed flawlessly despite being repeatedly accessed.

Yet, there are some considerations to take into account. I noticed metal seams possibly prone to minor flexing and a minor lid gap that requires intentional latching to seal. These are quintessentially the sort of real-world quirks that one could face, particularly considering the fridge's use during family trips.

Durability and Longevity

A significant factor in considering any appliance for off-road use is how it stands up to wear and tear. The Iceco fridge didn't disappoint here either. It endured regular use within my shop, as well as the rigorous conditions of a snowy drive to family gatherings. Although I observed some minor dings on the inside from storing tall cans and a mason jar, these didn't detract from the overall performance.

Smart Features

The refrigerator also includes technological perks, like a user-friendly app for remote management and different modes for refrigeration and freezing. Despite these features, it's important to note that there isn't a built-in light, which while not necessary for a small fridge like this, is something to consider.

You have to admit, this is one of the coolest looking fridges in the industry!

Final Thoughts on the Iceco Refrigerator

The Iceco refrigerator is a competent and capable addition to any overlanding rig. Its efficient power use, combined with its robust construction and sleek design, makes it a great portable refrigeration option. While there are slight areas that could be improved, they are minor in comparison to the overall quality and reliability the fridge offers.

It's an exciting product that could be ideal for adventure newcomers due to its size and price point. Plus, the fact that it comes from a brand that's respected within the overland community gives additional peace of mind.

As a side note, the refrigerator has been offered at $499 at the time of this review, making it a reasonable investment for the functionality it provides. Together with a compatible power station, it forms a great setup suited for both the beginning enthusiast and the experienced adventurer.

In conclusion, while some minor deficiencies were found, the Iceco refrigerator stands out as an excellent option for those seeking compact, efficient cooling on their trips. Keep an eye out for more updates as I integrate it further into my adventures and gear tests.

Want to see more on this fridge? I have a full video review on the Independence Overland Channel where I go more in-depth. https://youtu.be/SrLN8XJWq-Y

If you would like to purchase this fridge, or a Bluetti power station, consider using my affiliate links as it costs you nothing, but helps support the channel.

ICECO APL20 12% off discount code: Overland12

12% off discount link: https://bit.ly/3tM6RVS

Bluetti AC70: https://bit.ly/3tizERv

Purchase AC70 with discount code ' Independence70 ' to enjoy a $20 discount!