When summer hits, keeping your food and drinks cold becomes a top priority—whether you're heading to the beach, going on a road trip, or planning a camping weekend. That’s where cool boxes come in.
At Subcold, our range of electric and ice-powered cool boxes are built for all kinds of adventures. But which one is right for you? Let’s break it down.
🧊 What Is a Cool Box?
A cool box is a portable insulated container designed to keep contents cold for extended periods. Depending on the type, it may use ice, electric cooling technology, or both. They're ideal for:
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Camping and festivals
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Road trips and caravanning
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Beach days and picnics
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Garden parties and BBQs
🔌 Electric Cool Boxes: Chill on the Go
Electric cool boxes plug into a mains socket or 12V vehicle power source to keep food and drinks chilled without ice. Perfect for longer trips or when you need consistent cooling.
Key Benefits:
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No need for ice
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Plug into car or home power
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Dual cooling modes (Eco/Max)
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Ideal for travel, vanlife, and outdoor events
Example: Subcold Euro30 Cool Box
With a 28L capacity and advanced thermoelectric cooling, the Euro30 offers powerful performance and versatility. In MAX mode, it can cool up to 15–20°C below ambient temperature, making it perfect for summer outings, long drives, or keeping groceries chilled on the go.
🧊 Ice Cool Boxes: Simplicity Meets Performance
Also known as passive cool boxes, these rely on ice packs or blocks to maintain cool temperatures. Ideal for off-grid adventures where power isn’t available.
Key Benefits:
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No power needed
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Long-lasting ice retention
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Rugged and easy to transport
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Great for camping, fishing, festivals
Example: Subcold Mobi Range
Available in 45L and 70L sizes, with secure latches, reinforced tow handles, and wheels for easy movement—even over rough ground.
🧊 Mobi45 Ice Cool Box
| Temperature Threshold | Cooling Duration |
|---|---|
| Under 5°C | 66 hours |
| Under 10°C | 77 hours |
| Under 15°C | 98 hours |
| Under 20°C | 132 hours |
🧊 Mobi70 Ice Cool Box
| Temperature Threshold | Cooling Duration |
|---|---|
| Under 5°C | 91 hours |
| Under 10°C | 107 hours |
| Under 15°C | 137 hours |
| Under 20°C | 167 hours |
These results are based on internal testing at 25°C ambient with the cool box filled with ice and closed. Actual performance may vary depending on usage conditions.
🏕️ Choosing the Right Cool Box
Here’s a quick comparison to help you choose:
| Feature | Electric Cool Box | Ice Cool Box |
|---|---|---|
| Power Required | Yes (AC/DC) | No |
| Cooling Consistency | High | Depends on ice |
| Ideal Use | Road trips, powered campsites | Off-grid, day trips |
| Maintenance | Plug and go | Replace or refill ice |
Cool Box Tips for Summer Use
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Pre-chill items before placing them in the box
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Keep the box full – less air means better cooling
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Avoid opening it too often to retain cold air
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Use large ice blocks for longer retention (for ice coolers)
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Park in the shade when using electric models outdoors
🛒 Ready for Summer?
Whether you're planning a beach trip or a week in the wild, Subcold has the perfect cool box for every type of getaway. Choose between electric convenience or ice-powered portability, and keep your refreshments chilled wherever life takes you.
