If you’re searching for a portable fridge freezer that can actually handle both refrigeration and freezing at the same time, the ICECO APL35 might be exactly what you need. After extensive testing in real-world camping and RV situations, I discovered this isn’t just another cooler, it’s a game-changer for anyone tired of buying ice or dealing with limited food storage on the road.
What Makes the ICECO APL35 Different?
The ICECO APL35 is a 37-quart (35-liter) portable 12V refrigerator and freezer combo that does something most portable coolers simply can’t do: it operates as both a fridge AND a freezer simultaneously. While most portable electric coolers force you to choose one temperature mode for the entire unit, this dual zone system lets you freeze meat and ice cream on one side while keeping drinks and produce refrigerated on the other.
ICECO APL35 Key Specifications
- Capacity: 37 quarts / 35 liters
- Zones: Dual zone with independent temperature control
- Power: 12V/24V DC and 110V-240V AC
- Construction: Aluminum body (not plastic)
- Temperature Range: -4°F to 68°F (-20°C to 20°C)
- Weight: Lightweight enough for one person to move
- Special Features: Built-in LED light, app control, eco mode
The ICECO APL35 Dual Zone Feature: Why It Matters for RVers and Campers
Here’s what impressed me most about this portable fridge freezer. Each side operates independently, which means you have complete flexibility:
- Left side as freezer, right side as refrigerator (or vice versa)
- Both sides as refrigerators for maximum drink storage
- Both sides as freezers for long-term food preservation
- Any combination you need for your specific trip
You control each zone’s temperature directly on the digital display or remotely through the smartphone app. This flexibility alone makes the ICECO APL35 incredibly useful for RVers, overlanders, or anyone needing a versatile portable food storage solution.
Build Quality: Aluminum vs Plastic Construction
One immediate difference you’ll notice with the ICECO APL35 is the solid aluminum construction. Unlike many portable fridges that use cheap plastic and feel flimsy, this unit feels substantial and built to last. The aluminum body can withstand the bumps and vibrations of road travel without flexing or cracking.
Two thoughtful design features stand out:
- Self-supporting lid – The lid stays open on its own, so you’re not fighting to hold it while grabbing items
- Interior LED light – Essential for nighttime access without fumbling around in the dark
These small touches make a real difference in daily use.
Real-World Usage: From Home to Campsite
The ICECO APL35 adapts seamlessly to different power sources, which is crucial for camping and RV life. Here’s how I use it:
At Home: Plug into a standard household outlet (110V-240V AC) to pre-cool everything. Food goes in cold, frozen items stay frozen.
On the Road: Connect to the 12V outlet in your vehicle. Everything maintains temperature while driving, no ice melt, no soggy food.
At the Campsite: Plug into your RV’s exterior outlet or connect to your camper’s 12V system. Keep it outside for easy access to drinks and snacks without constant trips inside.
Off-Grid: Run it from a portable power station, your RV battery, or your tow vehicle’s battery using the efficient compressor technology.
This versatility makes it perfect for road trips, summer grocery runs, tailgating, beach days, power outages, and of course, extended camping trips.
Power Efficiency and Battery Performance
The ICECO APL35 uses a high-efficiency compressor that consumes less power than comparable dual zone portable fridge freezers. It includes two power modes:
- Eco Mode: Prioritizes energy conservation for extended battery operation
- Max Mode: Provides rapid cooling when you need quick temperature drops
When running off-grid from a portable power station or RV battery, the efficient compressor means longer run times without draining your power supply. This is critical when you’re boondocking or camping without hookups.
App Control: More Useful Than Expected
I’ll admit, I was skeptical about needing app control for a cooler. But the ICECO app has proven surprisingly handy. You can:
- Monitor both zone temperatures in real-time
- Adjust temperature settings without opening the unit
- Switch between eco and max modes
- Check battery voltage (when running on DC power)
It’s particularly useful when the fridge is outside or in your vehicle, you can verify temperatures without getting up.
The Ice-Free Advantage: Cost Savings Add Up
Before switching to the ICECO APL35 dual zone fridge freezer, I was constantly buying ice at five or six dollars per bag, purchasing two to three bags every camping trip. Beyond the cost, dealing with ice meant:
- Soggy food from melted ice water
- Frequent drainage of the cooler
- Limited space due to ice taking up room
- Constant ice runs during longer trips
With the ICECO APL35, those hassles disappear completely. No more ice purchases, no more water-logged sandwiches, and no more trips to find ice. The cost savings alone help offset the initial investment over time.
Is the ICECO APL35 Worth the Investment?
Let’s be honest: the ICECO APL35 isn’t cheap. This is an investment in portable refrigeration. But here’s who should seriously consider it:
- RVers with limited freezer space in their rigs
- Campers tired of the ice-buying cycle
- Overlanders needing reliable off-grid food storage
- Tailgaters who want both cold drinks and frozen items
- Anyone who takes frequent road trips or extended camping adventures
- Families who need flexible food storage options
For me, the combination of dual zone capability, solid construction, app control, and versatility across different power sources has made it absolutely worth it. This just makes life easier for anyone wanting reliable cold food storage without the constant hassle.
Best Use Cases for the ICECO APL35
Perfect For:
- RV camping with the unit as supplemental freezer space
- Overlanding trips requiring long-term food preservation
- Tailgating with both frozen and refrigerated items
- Beach days and outdoor events
- Emergency preparedness and power outages
- Grocery shopping in summer (keeping frozen items frozen on the drive home)
Size Consideration: At 37 quarts, the ICECO APL35 offers enough capacity for a long weekend or week-long trip for a couple, while remaining light enough for one person to move independently.
Final Verdict: ICECO APL35 Review Summary
The ICECO APL35 delivers on its promise of being a true portable fridge and freezer combo. The dual zone capability sets it apart from competitors, while the aluminum construction ensures durability for years of use. Yes, it requires a larger upfront investment than a traditional cooler, but the convenience, cost savings on ice, and versatility make it worthwhile for serious campers and RVers.
If you want a portable refrigeration solution that actually works like a real fridge and freezer, handles multiple power sources, and eliminates the ice-buying hassle forever, the ICECO APL35 is an excellent choice.
🛒 Where to Buy the ICECO APL 35 12v Portable Fridge Freezer
You can buy the ICECO APL35 using my Amazon affiliate link by clicking the Buy on Amazon button below….
The ICECO APL35 solves the biggest portable cooler problem: choosing between fridge or freezer mode. This 37-quart dual zone unit does both simultaneously with independent controls, eliminating ice costs and soggy food forever!
