Iceco VL35 Pro S Review: Is This Single-Zone Fridge Worth It for Overlanding?
When you spend real time on the trail—long weekends, family trips, summer heat—you quickly learn that a fridge isn’t a luxury. It’s part of the system that makes adventure sustainable. Cold food, safe storage, less waste, and fewer stops into town.
After running the VL35 Pro S from Iceco in the back of my Jeep, I can confidently say this: it’s one of the most thoughtfully designed mid-size single-zone fridges I’ve tested—but it’s not for everyone.
This review is written for people who are genuinely asking, “Is this a good product, and is it worth the money?”
Full review video at the end
Want to get and IceCo Fridge - IceCo.com or Amazon
Quick Overview: What Is the Iceco VL35 Pro S?
The VL35 Pro S is a 37-quart, single-zone 12V fridge designed for overlanding, camping, and vehicle-based travel. It sits squarely in the “medium” size category—big enough for multi-day trips, small enough to fit in tight vehicle setups.
Basic specs at a glance:
Capacity: 37 quarts
Dimensions: ~28” L × 16” W × just under 16” H
Weight: ~50 lbs (empty)
Single-zone refrigeration (no freezer divider)
AC & DC power with dual DC ports
Bluetooth app control
5-year compressor warranty
Build Quality & Design (Where This Fridge Shines)
The first thing you notice is the all-black, no-nonsense design. Hardened plastic sides, steel front panel, and solid hardware throughout. That steel face isn’t just cosmetic—it allows you to attach magnetic accessories, which is a surprisingly useful touch in a tight vehicle setup.
Yes, the steel makes it heavier than aluminum competitors. But once installed on a slide or kept in the vehicle, weight becomes a non-issue. What you gain is durability—and this fridge feels built for years of use, not seasons.
Dual-Opening Lid (A Game-Changer)
Instead of reversing hinges, the VL35 Pro S features dual latches, allowing the lid to open from either side instantly—or be removed completely. It’s such a simple idea that it’s baffling more brands don’t do this. In real-world packing scenarios, this matters more than you’d think.
Power, Cooling, and Noise Performance
Iceco uses their proprietary COP compressor, and in real use it’s been excellent.
Power draw: ~40 watts when the compressor is running
Eco vs Max: same wattage, different run frequency
Cooling time: ~30 minutes from room temp to 34°F
Noise level: noticeable if you listen for it, never intrusive
Once cold, the fridge holds temperature extremely well. In eco mode, the compressor cycles infrequently as long as you’re not constantly opening the lid.
Accuracy has also been solid. Set to 34°F, internal thermometers consistently read between 34–36°F. That’s well within acceptable variance.
Controls & Bluetooth App (Better Than Expected)
All physical controls are on one face—no menu diving, no guesswork. Dedicated buttons for temperature, eco/max mode, and battery protection make adjustments simple.
The Bluetooth app was something I originally dismissed as unnecessary… until I used it. Being able to check fridge status while driving—without stopping, unloading gear, or opening the tailgate—adds real peace of mind. Especially on long, hot days when food safety matters.
You can:
Adjust temperature (0–50°F)
Switch eco/max modes
Set battery protection (low / medium / high)
Monitor fridge operation remotely
It’s simple, stable, and genuinely useful.
Interior Layout: Pros and Honest Cons
Inside, you’ll find a single open compartment with a removable basket and a smaller side section.
What works well:
Efficient single-zone layout (less power draw)
LED interior light
Removable basket for organization
Great for flat items, meats, dairy, and meal prep
Where it falls short:
Slightly too short for a 2-liter bottle
Smaller side compartment fits cans loosely
Taller bottles (wine, soda) require creative packing
This isn’t a deal-breaker—but it is something to understand before buying. Iceco favors a longer, lower profile design, which fits vehicles well but sacrifices a bit of vertical flexibility.
What Iceco Includes (And Why It Matters)
Iceco goes above and beyond here:
AC & DC power cables
Internal basket
Drain plug plus a spare
Extra handle
Four spare corner protectors
These aren’t flashy features, but they tell you something important: Iceco expects you to use this fridge hard—and they’re planning for the long term.
That mindset carries through to the 5-year compressor warranty, which is among the best in the industry and far exceeds most budget competitors.
Real-World Use & Final Verdict
I’ve run this fridge on multi-day trips, including four full days powered by a 1500Wh battery—sitting in the sun—without issue. It’s reliable, efficient, and confidence-inspiring.
Pros
Excellent build quality
Smart, user-friendly design
Dual-opening lid
Efficient power use
Strong warranty
Cons
Heavier than aluminum options
Interior height limits bottle storage
Premium price (~$650 retail)
So… Is It Worth It?
If you want the cheapest fridge possible—no.
If you want reliability, smart design, and long-term value—absolutely yes.
You could buy two budget fridges for the same money, but I’d rather buy one fridge I trust when I’m days from home.
The Iceco VL35 Pro S has earned a permanent spot in my adventure setup.
If you’re interested, check current pricing and any available discounts directly from Iceco. And if you want to see this fridge in action, the full field test video is available on Simply Must Go.
Until next time—God bless, and I’ll see you on the trail.
