Imagine going on a camping trip and needing a cold drink but can’t find any. Believe me when I say that this could be annoying as there’s no worst scenario than when you run out of ice cubes and have no choice but to take a warm drink.
But there’s no need to panic because I’ve got the best deal for you!
After sourcing through different products to get some of the best portable ice makers for camping in 2023, here is our pick.
Contents
- Top 5 Best Portable Ice Makers for Camping in 2023
- Buying Guide: Factors to Consider Before Buying a Portable Ice Maker
- FAQs
- Can these portable ice makers keep ice frozen for long?
- How much time do these machines take to produce ice?
- Is it necessary to fix a water line on my portable ice machine?
- Will my machine take up much electricity?
- What is the amount of water you can put in your ice maker?
- Can I add any water to my ice machine?
- Can I use it as a refrigerator?
- Final Thoughts
Top 5 Best Portable Ice Makers for Camping in 2023
1. Frigidaire Ice Maker Machine
Top of our list is the Frigidaire Portable Stainless-Steel Ice Maker, which has a gorgeous silver color on its outer body. This big guy has some excellent characteristics that will beat even the most expensive ice maker. But the best part of this ice maker is that it can produce ice cubes in three different sizes. All you need to do is select the size you want, and the ice maker gives you your heart desires. So, whether you intend to use the ice for small or large drinks, this machine can help switch your options.
But that’s not the least of its amazing features. Unlike most small ice makers for camping that make loud noises, this device does not give that noisy sound. Instead, it quietly makes about 2.2lbs of ice cubes in six minutes. However, you have to make sure not to use it for long as this will make it generate a loud noise. With its inbuilt large icebox, you can also pack a load of ice per day. One added advantage of using this device is that it preserves the temperature, and you don’t need a drainage device for this ice maker making your camping trip much convenient.
Pros
- Packs a load of ice at once
- Fast operation time
- Makes ice available in different sizes
- A large box that is space-saving
- Its no drainage feature makes it suitable for camping activities
Cons
- Can get loud when incessantly used
Takeaway
With the different sizes of ice cubs this nugget offers, you can switch up your options.
2. hOmeLabs Countertop Ice Maker
On our best portable ice maker for camping in 2023, we have the hOmeLabs Portable Counter Top ice maker as our second choice. One remarkable quality of this device is its ability to produce bullet-shaped ice cubes. Also, it sits quietly on your countertop without making any noise. But that’s not all. When the ice gets to its maximum limit, the hOmeLabs, ice maker automatically shutoff. Interesting right? There’s more. It has lightweight, which you can carry along to your every trip.
At the same time, it takes this machine about eight to twelve minutes to make an ice cube, which we can consider fast. But there’s a catch to this. You have to make use of its silent compressor that requires low-energy for freezing. A significant benefit of using this machine is that you do not lose water. The water tank lies on the inbuilt ice tray. So, instead of losing water, the machine uses the melted ice to make more ice cubes.
Pros
- Ease of use
- Silent working power
- Automatic shutoff feature
- Produces bullet-shaped ice cubes
- Time and water-saving
Cons
- Can only create small ice cubes
Takeaway
The automatic shutoff feature of this ice-making machine makes it easy for you to perform other activities. All you need to do is start the process, and it will turn off when ice is formed.
3. Luma Comfort Portable Ice Maker
Our third pick for the best portable ice maker in 2023 is the Luma Comfort Portable Ice Maker. If you want ice cubes that will melt slower than the cloudy ice cube, then this ice maker is what you need. Unlike most ice making machines, this equipment produces clear crystal ice. Yes, you heard right. The crystal ice makes the difference as it is that element that makes it melt slowly. Added to the fact that it produces ice in different shapes, the Luma Comfort Ice Maker also has a compact design that makes it easy for you to move around, and you do not have to feel too cramped up.
Unlike most ice machines that need separate installation to function, this device does not need it. Instead, it has a sturdy compressor that makes producing ice cubes easy. All you need to do is plug it in, add water and leave it to form your ice cubes.
Pros
- Ice that melts easily
- It comes in a compact design for easy movement
- Produces different ice shapes
- It does not require a separate installment
- Ease of operation
Cons
- It can be slightly loud
- Cleaning may be difficult
Takeaway
Do you have limited space and need something that will fit-in? Then the compact build of this machine will work for you.
4. GE Countertop Nugget Ice Maker
This portable ice maker from GE is fourth on our best portable ice maker for camping in 2023. Buying this ice machine makes your investment worth every penny because of its cumbersome features. This piece can produce one pound of chewable ice from crushed ice flakes every hour. It also has a sleek and classy stainless-steel design that makes your space look artistic. However, this is not the best deal you’ll get when you buy this nugget.
The GE Profile Opal Countertop Ice Maker has a distinct design where you can use Bluetooth to control it. But to use this means of operation, you have to use a free app on your smartphone, which you can download on the net. Then, plug it into a grounded electrical outlet and fill the tank with water. It does not require any water hookup.
Pros
- Can easily move the ice maker
- Produces soft and chewable ice
- Compact and portable design
- It has smart built-in Bluetooth connectivity
- Can plug directly into an inground electric outlet
Cons
- Ice melts easily
Takeaway
With its smart built-in Bluetooth connectivity, you can easily operate this machine from a far distance. All you need to do is download the free app on your smartphone!
5. NewAir Portable Ice Maker
To round up our list of the best portable ice maker in 2023 is the NewAir Counter Top Portable Ice Maker. This machine has a small size that is perfect for your camping trip and will not inconvenience you. But this is not its best feature. A good phrase to describe this ice maker is “small but mighty” because even with its small and compact frame, this little guy packs a punch by producing about 50 pounds of ice every day.
The NewAir portable ice maker for Rv also has some amazing accessories like the scoop and ice basket. These fixtures make it easy to scoop your ice cubes. Just like the hOmeLabs Portable Counter Top ice maker, it also produces bullet-shaped ice cubes. All you have to do is press the single button on its surface and get your ice ready!
Pros
- Small and compact design
- Bullet-shaped ice
- Additional fixtures like ice scoops and baskets for convenience
- Can produce 50lbs of ice cubes per day
- Easy to use
Cons
- Has just a single button for operation
Takeaway
If you need an ice maker that will produce up to 50lbs of ice every day, then this machine is your go-to guy.
Buying Guide: Factors to Consider Before Buying a Portable Ice Maker
When you buy an ice maker, it should be able to perform and function properly. This is why before buying one, you would want to consider if it has the available features that give it great functioning and makes work easier for you. Some of these features may include the product’s measured weight, capacity, size, and many more. Let’s check some of these features to know the necessary features your portable ice maker should have.
Speed
The best portable ice maker will be able to freeze water regardless of the temperature. So, if you want to buy an ice maker, ensure that you choose one with great speed that will suit your need. Some models can produce ice cubes of about 25lbs to 30lbs per day, while others can produce ice for about 81lbs daily. It all depends on you.
Weight
One thing to never forget is the weight of your ice maker. This factor greatly affects the device’s portability. If you are using your ice maker at home, then the weight may not matter as it will be standing in one spot. However, if you intend to use it in different settings, an ultra-light model will work best.
Energy Rate
Every model has its amount of power it consumes. Many are designed to be energy-efficient. On the other hand, some may come with additional power-saving features. If you want to get the best portable ice maker for use, check out those with automatic power-off functions or recycling water features. These features help to conserve power. These qualities are some of the best energy-saving traits of a portable ice maker.
Product Size
Before even checking the market for an ice maker, you should know the exact size you need. This way, it ensures that you get the best possible fit for the available space. To know the product size, pick a tape and measure the countertop of the ice maker.
Capacity
A portable ice machine’s capacity depends on the bottles of water and the amount of ice it can produce per day, and every ice machine model varies. A typical portable water tank capacity is two to three liters, while its storage capacity is about two pounds of ice, meaning it can hold about nine cubes per batch. Before choosing a portable ice machine, look for one that can hold a lot of water and make the number of ice you want every day. So, go for one that meets your needs!
Working Time
A portable ice maker’s working time is one of the most important features you want to check out. If a device that should operate for thirty minutes works for two minutes, that means there is a problem with it. The operation time for every ice maker varies. Most devices make a large number of ice cubes in less than fifteen to twenty minutes. The best portable ice machine will make this same large amount of ice between seven to ten minutes.
What does this mean? The best portable machine works faster, are easy to use, and saves time. So, choose wisely!
Accessories
Many people do not consider this factor essential. However, accessories make the process of making and taking your ice cubes easy. You get the best value for your money when you get a portable ice maker with convenient accessories for your ice functions. One fixture to watch out for before choosing your ice machine is the ice scoops, which help you scoop ice from the machine. Another fixture is the removable ice bucket, which works almost the same as ice scoops but packs more than the former.
The best part when it comes to a self-cleaning fixture, cleaning your device will no longer be a problem.
Product Build and Design
Though a product design may not make any difference to how well the ice maker produces ice, it gives an added beauty to your space. Also, a product build and design will determine if the ice maker is portable or occupies space. Some brands design comes with an LCD while others come with a low-noise motor that helps for quiet operation. These built-in components of the ice maker make it portable. If you are considering choosing a portable ice maker, you want to go for one that has the most space-saving design.
FAQs
Can these portable ice makers keep ice frozen for long?
First, they are not for preserving or storing ice. Second, a portable ice maker produces instant ice cubes for use or to store in the freezer. Therefore, they make ice, not store them.
How much time do these machines take to produce ice?
For every brand, machine type, and size, the time to make ice carries. Some models and brands take up to six minutes, while others take about 15 minutes.
Is it necessary to fix a water line on my portable ice machine?
The answer is no, and you do not have to start installing a water line to your machine. All you have to do is fill the machine with water, and it will make your ice cubes.
Will my machine take up much electricity?
No, they consume a small amount of power. It is because each of these models is designed to save energy. But they do this with the automatic power turn off and recycling feature that comes with it.
What is the amount of water you can put in your ice maker?
It all boils down to one thing, the water reservoir. If your refillable water tank is big, it can hold about 2-3 quarts of water. But, if smaller, it will not hold up to this amount. So, your water reservoir will determine the amount of water you use in your portable ice maker.
Can I add any water to my ice machine?
Not all types of water work well for your ice maker. Distilled water is a good example. Although it is drinkable, some models do not function well with it. However, you can use tap water and most bottled water in the portable ice maker to produce your ice.
Can I use it as a refrigerator?
These ice makers are not refrigerators. They are only meant to make ice and have a small compressor that produces ice quickly. Once it goes off, it does not retain the cool temperature. So, if you leave a food item in it, it may spoil. The only time it keeps something cool is when it is producing ice.
Final Thoughts
Portable ice makers are nuggets you do not want to leave without when camping. With an ice maker, you get instant refreshment no matter the location. All you need to do is fill the water tank with either tap water or bottled water, plug it in your electric extension, and in a few minutes, you get fresh ice for use.
However, before choosing an ice maker, make sure to check for its speed, weight, product size, energy rate, operation time, and most of all, the capacity of water your ice nugget can take. Doing so will help you to make the right choice on the best portable ice maker for camping.
