Thinking about getting one of these for an upcoming trip: Any experience of what this does to the battery and if it's a good/bad idea or not? Thanks all!
I've thought about those since we travel so much but never bought one. I don't know how much research you've done or how long or type of trip you're taking but make sure you're getting the right type for your needs. There are major differences between the various "cooling" methods used that also greatly impact the price. Some types don't work unless the car is level so if you're headed to the mountains you should be aware of that aspect of them. If you haven't already read up on the types, this place doesn't actually sell or accept money from vendors to review products: What is the Best 12 Volt Portable Refrigerator in 2019? - Camp Addict We've done well in the past freezing gallon bottles of water in an ice chest. No mess as it gradually melts over a day or two. We refreeze it when we reach our next destination (hotel or family member's home). We're probably going to have to pop for a unit with a compressor and a have a backup power source since my wife recently went on refrigerated medicines so it's time for me to start looking into them again.
Do remember that it doesn't work when the car is turned off. When the car is running, the battery impact should be almost inconsequential, no worse than turning on headlights. But ignition off and car in Accessory mode = 12v battery death.
