Living the RV lifestyle means making the most out of limited space, and one common dilemma is how to store all your perishables. To get a better understanding of how our readers tackle this issue, we recently asked in our newsletter, “Do you use a portable refrigerator or cooler for extra storage?”

This poll aimed to uncover whether RV enthusiasts are supplementing their built-in storage with additional cooling solutions. If you missed this poll, don’t worry!

Make sure to participate in our upcoming surveys so you can contribute to our community’s findings and have your voice heard. Now, let’s dive into the results and see how many of you are doubling down on cold storage.

Poll Results: To Chill or Not to Chill?

The results are in, and the community is almost evenly split on this one. A

slight majority of 54% of our readers voted “No” to using a portable refrigerator or cooler for extra storage.

While 46% said “Yes.”

It seems that just over half of you are making do with your RV’s built-in fridge, while the rest are finding creative ways to keep their food and drinks cool on the road.

The Cold, Hard Facts

So, why the divide? Perhaps it boils down to a matter of convenience versus necessity. For some, the built-in refrigerator provides ample space, and adding another cooling unit might feel like overkill.

After all, who needs an extra cooler when you can just eat all the ice cream in one sitting? On the other hand, the 46% who use portable coolers might be the planners among us, the ones who stock up on groceries like they’re preparing for a mini-apocalypse. Or maybe they just really, really like cold beverages.

The 46%: Masters of Cold Storage

To the 46% who use portable refrigerators or coolers, we tip our hats to you. You are the masters of cold storage, the ones who can whip up a chilled cocktail at a moment’s notice or produce a fresh salad in the middle of the desert. Your dedication to keeping things cool is nothing short of impressive. Whether it’s a sleek portable fridge or a trusty old cooler, you’ve found a way to make your RV life just a bit more luxurious.

Conclusion: Why the Results Make Sense

The nearly even split in our poll results likely reflects the diverse needs and priorities of RVers. For some, the built-in refrigerator is sufficient, and the idea of lugging around an extra cooler seems unnecessary.

Space is always at a premium in an RV, and every square inch counts. However, for others, the additional storage is a game-changer, providing the flexibility to store more food and beverages, especially on longer trips. The decision to use a portable refrigerator or cooler often comes down to personal preference and travel habits.

So, whether you’re in the “No” camp or the “Yes” camp, there’s no right or wrong answer—just what works best for your RV lifestyle.