RV Refrigerator Size Calculator

An RV fridge that works off-grid.

Pick an RV fridge sized for your rig type, traveler count, and trip length — and pick the right power architecture (3-way absorption, 2-way compressor, or 12V DC). Sized for boondocking, shore power, or both.

⏱ ~30 sec•Sizing for class A/C, trailer, fifth-wheel, van•Size & Capacity

Power modes

12V / AC / LP

1.5

Lb LP / day

Absorption

10–16

Cu ft Class A

Typical

3–5

Cu ft camper van

Typical

STEP 01

Rig type, travelers,
trip length, power.

Sized from typical RV fridge spec ranges by class. Power source determines compressor vs absorption.

RV type

Travelers

Trip length

Power source

Determines compressor vs absorption architecture.

Updates live as you type

Recommended size

Updated live

13.5cu ft avg

Range: 11.0 – 16.0 cu ft

Absorption (3-way) refrigerator

Power options

• 12V DC (while driving)

• 120V AC (shore power)

• Propane (off-grid)

Under the hood

Sized from RV class, then trip-adjusted.

Base ranges reflect typical RV fridge spec sheets by class. Trip-length multipliers reflect bulk-storage needs for extended and full-time travel.

01
Class baseline
Class A/C: 8 + 1.5/traveler. Travel trailer: 6 + 1.2/traveler. Fifth-wheel: 10 + 1.5/traveler. Camper van: 3 + 0.8/traveler.
02
Trip-length multiplier
Weekend ×1.0. Extended (1–3 weeks) ×1.3. Full-time ×1.5.
03
Power architecture
Propane / both → 3-way absorption. Electric → 2-way compressor. 12V DC only → DC-native compressor unit (typical for camper vans on solar).

Questions

Frequently asked

A 2-way (compressor) fridge runs on 12V DC and 120V AC. A 3-way (absorption) fridge adds propane, letting you stay cold off-grid without batteries. Compressor fridges are more efficient on shore power; absorption fridges are better for long boondocking trips.