10 Best Portable Air Conditioner For Car

Comfort is very essential when one is driving. This is the reason why you should ensure that your car’s air conditioning system is working optimally. After all, you would not want a scenario where you are shivering due to cold weather, and you have to drive to work, and so on. Also, it is not comfy to drive when the temperatures are too high. Therefore, a portable air conditioner for a car comes in handy to avert such circumstances.

However, did you know that your car’s AC might go out when you least expect it? This could be one of those moments you dread most. Sometimes, this might happen, and if a warranty does not cover it, you might have to dig deep into your pocket to repair your air conditioner. The good news is that a portable air conditioner can help you mitigate such problems. Here, you can trust that you will drive comfortably even if you live in an area with extreme temperatures. You will simply forget the internal AC of your car and start using these portable air conditioners.

Types of Portable Car Air Conditioner

If you are looking for a portable car air conditioner out there, chances are that you will come across 5 types of them. These include:

1. Portable ACs

These portable air conditioners basically work to ensure that you cool a small area. In most cases, these devices will cool less than 200 square feet by up to 15 degrees. However, this might change depending on the brand, style, and even BTU measurements.

This device basically extracts air from a room and then uses a refrigerant to cool it down. This hot air is then extracted from the room and then exhausted to the outdoors through a hose. When it comes to portable ACs, there are single and dual-hose portable AC units. Also, they also have multiple power source options such as the 12v car power supply, AC adapter or even rechargeable batteries.

2. Rooftop ACs

These coolers are designed for RV and camper installations. You will note that they usually work the same way a window AC unit works. However, they are usually complete with their cone evaporator, compressor, and even thermostat controls.

If you check keenly, most of these units usually come with temperature sensors. You can choose to install these sensors around the cabin and the living areas of the recreational vehicle. The good news is that they can help gauge the ambient temperature. Based on the thermostat setting, this device will be on and off until the entire space reads within the set range. Rooftop ACs are quite different from other coolers as they need permanent installation. Also, they need sensors, thermostats, refrigerant, and ducting.

3. Fan coolers

These coolers are relatively smaller than portable fans. Their primary role is to circulate air in a bid to supply a refreshing breeze. Compared to oscillating fans, they are quite different as they usually have water or even ice added to the system. This way, they can yield cold air or steam or even spray some mist.

You can readily clip this portable air conditioner on the air vents, headrest, or even on your car windows. This way, you can be sure that your car will remain cool for longer.

4. Bucket + Fan coolers

To start with, bucket coolers usually use buckets or large storage compartments to hold both ice and water. The air that surrounds the ice is then pulled through a fan usually mounted on the top and then pushed into space through fans or the vent.

In a car, these bucket coolers are usually sealed so that water or ice does not spill over. It is vital that you maintain a certain level of water in the tank so that your fan can remain in operation. As a result, you should constantly check the water and ice level and refill them when necessary.

Top 10 Best Portable Air Conditioner For Car

By purchasing a portable air conditioner for your car, you can be sure that you will cool your car when the weather gets hot. Since there are many portable ACs out there, it is vital that you choose the best to get the value for your money. Here are some of the best models that you should consider buying out there:

1. HAMSWAN Portable Air Conditioner For Car

By just pouring some ice or ice water into the water tank, the personal air cooler will be turned on. This will, in turn, ensure efficient delivery of a stream of cold air where you need it the most within seconds. Since it comes with the latest evaporate atomization, cooling technology, you can be sure that you will stay away from the dry air and thereby enjoy some cool atmosphere.

HAMSWAN Portable Air Conditioner
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Apart from this, it comes with a built-in rechargeable battery that allows you to charge this device anywhere you please. When charging this device will remain quiet, and there will not interrupt your sleep. This makes it a perfect choice for you.

It also comes with soft LED lights, which are 7 in number. These lights can be used to soothe your mood at night and even make you sleep soundly. Finally, since it is lightweight and compact, it is a perfect choice if you dislike bulky ACs.

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Pros

  • It comes with unique mute technology.
  • The device has a USB charging port.
  • It is lightweight
  • The model comes with a large water tank

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Cons

  • The LED lights might not be helpful when you are driving

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2. Personal Mini Air Cooler – Portable Air Conditioner For Car

If you are looking for a cooler than a fan, this is the portable AC you should invest in. Apart from cooling the surrounding air, you can be sure that you save more energy when using this device. Compared to the old model that was voluminous and made a lot of noise, this model is better as it is completely upgraded. It is small in size and does not make noise. Apart from this, the device is lightweight.

Personal Mini Air Cooler
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The filter of this air cooler will not only allow you to enjoy some cold air but can help filter out some odors and dust in the air. This way, you can be sure that you will enjoy some fresh and healthy air while driving or even camping. People with respiratory sensitivities can readily use this device as they will be able to breathe some fresh air for long hours.

This portable AC is fantastic as it comes with a USB port. Therefore, you can readily use power banks to charge its battery. Besides charging this device using a USB cable, it is energy-saving and environmentally friendly. Finally, it comes with a lifetime warranty from the manufacture. Also, you will enjoy 7 to 15 days of free shipping.

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Pros

  • It is light weight.
  • The model is energy efficient
  • It is made of high quality and is easy to use
  • The portable AC comes with a USB port

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Cons

  • It can only be used by one person at a time.

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3. Personal Evaporative Air Cooler – Portable Air Conditioner For Car

To start with, this portable AC is designed to create a personal temperature environment. Here, you will be able to cool the hot air surrounding you to the levels you please. You will be able to add some water or ice into the tank.

Personal Evaporative Air Cooler
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Apart from this, the device has a 2 hours and 4 hours timer option that allows you to set it. Once the desired temperature is reached, it will automatically turn off. Apart from the personalized feel, this device can be a humidified, mini AC, air circulator, or even a desk fan. This makes it a multipurpose device.

Since this portable AC is Freon-free, it usually uses low energy compared to its peers. Also, the blades of this AC are not exposed. Therefore, it cannot hurt anyone, including kids and pets. Finally, it comes with 7 color mood light that allows you to set a customized light color. This can go a long way in boosting your moods and even make you catch some sleep. Finally, this unit usually has low noise levels.

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Pros

  • Allows you to create a personal temperature environment
  • The model is lightweight
  • It is energy efficient.
  • The unit comes with 7 colour mood lights.

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Cons

  • One way airflow vent means that only one person can use it at a time.

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4. SUEPERGOD Personal Air Cooler – Portable Air Conditioner For Car

Just like the portable AC mentioned above, this device is designed to create a personalized temperature environment. Here, it can combine an air circulator, evaporative cooler, fan, and humidifier. This way, your skin will not only feel dry equipped with led light of 7 colors but also brighten the mood of your room.

SUEPERGOD Personal Air Cooler
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This model comes with multiple power supply methods. Here you can readily charge it using a laptop, power bank, or even a wall outlet. This makes is a perfect choice for many people who like flexibility. Finally, since it is portable and easy to use, it can easily be moved from your office to the car and so on. Apart from this, it will cool and even purify the surrounding air for you. This will significantly help you enjoy more comfort even when you are driving.

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Pros

  • The model is easy to use
  • It is very powerful yet very portable
  • The unit comes with 7 LED lights.
  • It is energy efficient

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Cons

  • This portable AC does not come with a remote control.

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5. Portable Air Conditioner Fan, KUUOTE Mini Evaporative Cooler For Car

You can use this unit both as an ordinary desk fan, air cooler fan, or even as a cool-mist humidifier. Here, you can trust that you will enjoy cool, fresh, and dry air coming out. It also comes with 7 soft lights, which can help boost your moods and even sleep better.

portable car air conditioner Fan, KUUOTE Mini Evaporative Cooler
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As far as noise is concerned, this unit usually works well at a low noise level. Therefore, your conversations will not be interfered with when this device is in use. Apart from this, the portable AC comes with 3 adjustable wind speeds. You just need to press the power button to choose between the soft and strong wind options.

Lastly, the unit is easy and convenient to carry. Therefore, you can readily carry it to your office and even use it in your car as you drive back home. All this while, you will be able to enjoy the cool air and thereby enjoy more comfort.

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Pros

  • The model is lightweight
  • Combination of purifier, cooler and humidifier.
  • It makes little noise.
  • The model comes with 7 colour LEDs

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Cons

  • This model can only be used by one person at a time.

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6. Portable Air Conditioner Fan, Evaporative Air Conditioner Fan For Car

To start with, the portable AC comes with a 3-in-1 function. Here, it contains the functions of the air conditioner, air humidifier, and fan. Therefore, you can trust that your air will not only be cooled but also dehumidified.

portable car air conditioner Fan, Evaporative Air Conditioner Fan
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Since this device comes with three-speed modes and 3 spray modes, you can be sure that you will be able to adjust the wind speed and spray mode the way you please. For the speed mode, you can adjust from low to medium and finally to high. This combination helps you to keep away from the hot summer and thereby enjoy a cool atmosphere, be it in your car or at the workplace.

Apart from this, it comes with 7 color light design that enables you to create a romantic atmosphere. Also, its low noise levels make it ideal to use, even when the kids are asleep. Finally, this unit consumes less energy compared to its peers. Therefore, you will be able to save more money and get quality results.

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Pros

  • It comes with 7 colour light design
  • Low noise levels
  • Powered with USB charging facility
  • The model is easy to use

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Cons

  • It can only be used by one person only.

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7. Evapolar evaCHILL Personal Evaporative Air Cooler and Humidifier

Just like its counterpart mentioned above, this portable AC can cool, humidify and even clean dust particles that might be present in the air. This can help improve the air quality you breathe, be it in your car or at home.

Evapolar evaCHILL Personal Evaporative Air Cooler and Humidifier portable car air conditioner
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Also, this device is designed for personal use. Therefore, you can readily place it on your desk as you carry on with your normal duties. Besides this, you can place it on your couch or even your bed. Finally, this unit comes with an enlarged water tank that enables you to work for longer hours.

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Pros

  • The device comes with a USB powered system.
  • It works not only as an air conditioner but also a humidifier too
  • The model is very portable
  • It comes with 4 fan modes for you to enjoy the best cooling effect

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Cons

  • The built-up quality is not very good.

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8. Personal Air Cooler, 5000 mAh Battery Operated 

This portable air conditioner is made of high-quality material. Besides this, it comes with a large 700 ml water tank. When this tank is at full capacity, the refrigerator of this device can blow cool wind for over 12 hours. Therefore, you will be able to enjoy some cool atmosphere for longer, especially during the summer weather.

Personal Air Cooler, 5000 mAh Battery Operated portable car air conditioner
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Also, its ultra-quiet and humanized design make it ideal for many people out there. When the cooling fan is in use, you will still enjoy some peace of mind as it will not be noisy. Its personalized size makes it ideal for use on coffee tables, office desks, and so on. Lastly, it can operate optimally while using low energy. This makes it more energy efficient. Its portability makes it a good choice for those who like traveling from one location to another.

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Pros

  • The device is easy to use and made of high quality.
  • It has 700ml water tank for maximum cooling effect.
  • The model comes with 5000mAh battery
  • It is lightweight

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Cons

  • It might not be able to fit inside a car’s dashboard.

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9. LaoTzi Portable & Rechargeable Evaporative Air Conditioner For Car

One desirable feature of this portable AC is that it has a wireless design. Besides this, it is portable and small in size. Therefore, you can carry it to your office or car, and it will not occupy so much space.

LaoTzi portable car air conditioner, Rechargeable Evaporative Air Conditioner
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The model comes with a 300 ML large water tank, which can be used for over 4 hours. When this tank is full, the device can spray cold air for several hours. Its 7 different color light options can help boost your moods and even make you catch some sleep at night.

Finally, this model does not contain harmful refrigerants. Also, it does not utilize a compressor like conventional ACs out there. As far as power is concerned, you can be sure that you will save more on your energy bills. This makes it a better option than its peers out there.

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Pros

  • It is very portable
  • The model is energy efficient.
  • It does not contain the harmful refrigerant material
  • It comes with 3 different modes for optimum cooling effect.

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Cons

  • Its rechargeable battery is not reliable.

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10. Balhvit Portable Air Conditioner For Car

This Ac is not only portable but can also serve as a desk air purifier and humidifier. The mini portable AC for cars basically uses simple evaporation technology to change hot and dry air into a soothing, cool wind.

Balhvit portable car air conditioner
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Since it is small in size, it does not need a big space for use. It is worth noting that it comes with a built-in rechargeable battery. This makes it easy for you to carry this device anywhere you. As long as you have a USB cable, you can readily charge it from any location.

Finally, since it comes with 7 color night lights, you can trust that it will provide soft illumination to boost your moods. In fact, this will lure you to sleep.

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Pros

  • The model is made of a strong material
  • It is easy to use
  • The AC is highly energy efficient
  • It comes with USB charging facility.

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Cons

  • It can only be used by one person only.

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Key Features To Look Before Buying Portable Air Conditioner For Car

A portable air conditioner is an excellent asset for your car. Therefore, you should choose the one that fits your needs to get the value for your money. Since these portable ACs usually come in different forms, it is vital that you know a few things you should check so that you can end up with the product you ever desired. Here are some of the factors that you should put into consideration:

1. Size vs space

Most portable ACs, they are generally designed for personal use. Therefore, they are generally small in size. However, there is a need for you to consider the space you have in your car so that you can choose the portable AC that will fit appropriately.

For optimal results, you should be keen to check the BTU of the AC. Most manufacturers usually specify the BTU of the particular AC in its specifications. Here, you should consider adhering to the rule of thumb.

It states that the higher the number of BTUs, the bigger space an AC can cool. If you check keenly, you will note that most cars usually have small interior spaces. Therefore, your portable cooler of choice should be relatively smaller. In this case, the number of BTUs for this unit will be relatively lower.

2. Energy efficiency

Different ACs will consume different amounts of energy. Ideally, you should consider going for the one that is more energy-efficient. This way, you will get value for your money. However, one of the factors that influence the amount of energy consumed by this device is how you use it in your car.

For you to save more on these costs, you should consider choosing a programmable one. This is because a thermostat will help to put it on and off when necessary automatically. For instance, when the indoor of your car has attained the temperature you had set, it will automatically switch off.

Besides the way you utilize the AC, cleanliness can affect the energy efficiency of the AC. Therefore, once you buy this device, you should clean it once in a while so that it can be more energy efficient.

3. Aesthetic appeal

When buying a portable AC for your car, you should pay attention to its aesthetic appeal. Ideally, it should blend well with your car’s interior. It should make your car look more attractive and appealing. This way, you will have some prestige even as you utilize this device in your car.

4. Noise

Besides aesthetic appeal, you should pay attention to the noise produced by the portable AC. In most cases, the fan will produce some sound. However, it should not be too loud. Some fan motors usually tend to be noisy.

For optimal results, you should check the decibel rating of your portable AC before making a purchase. In most instances, you will find them rated at 55Db or even lower. This way, you can be sure that you will not have difficulties even when you have a conversation with your partner when the AC is in use.

5. Power

If your portable cooler is not an actual AC, it will not have a BTU rating.BTU basically refers to the British Thermal Unit. This rating determines how much water can actually be changed by one degree. Therefore, the higher the BTU, the more powerful the AC.

Apart from how powerful the portable AC is, you should be keen to check its power supply. For instance, if your car does not have a 12v supply, there is no need to buy a unit that needs one. The good news is that there are many power sources one can choose from. From USB to even solar, you can be sure that you will get a portable AC that uses any of these power sources.

6. Features

Some portable ACs usually come with additional features that can mesmerize you. For instance, some will have directional airflow adjustments or even multiple speed options. Also, you are likely to find some that are multi-tools and can perform other tasks other than just cooling the surrounding air.

Some of these additional features include wireless connection and Bluetooth compatibility. Here you can readily utilize the portable AC and still play some music. Such features can make you have an enjoyable day when you are on a road trip or even camping.

Apart from this, you should avoid buying a portable AC that has features that you do not need. For instance, if it comes with a radio function, you can choose to buy one that does not have this feature and still save more money.

7. Ease of Installation and maintenance

Your portable AC of choice should not be difficult to install. For optimal results, you should first read the owner’s manual so that you can get a few insights on how to install it. Also, you can look for an online video that best describes how one can readily set it up.

In case you notice that it is challenging to install it, you can choose a different model. After all, you would not want to buy a portable AC that is difficult to install. Apart from the ease of installation, you should be keen to check how one should maintain this device.

From cleaning the unit to flushing the water lines of this device, there is a lot that you can do as far as maintenance is concerned. Ideally, you should choose a device that is easy to maintain.

8. Cost of the portable AC

Before you buy a portable AC, it is vital that you compare the prices charged by different retailers out there. By comparing prices, you will know the one sold at a higher price and the one that is sold cheaply. The price of these devices is usually determined by different factors, such as the cooling capacity of the device.

For instance, if you are looking for a portable AC to cool a large area, it might cost you more money. The prices charged for these devices depend on the area of cooling. Apart from this, the presence of additional features such as dehumidifiers and heaters might make the costs go high. Therefore, if you have more money, you can choose the one that has more features. After all, it will be a good investment for your car.

9. Warranty

Finally, you should consider caking the warranty period of the portable AC before buying one for your car. For instance, if your portable AC comes with a longer warranty from the manufacturer, you can be sure that you will get value for your money. In case it gets faulty, it will be repaired for free. Therefore, the longer the warranty period given, the better the product.

Advantages of Portable Air Conditioner For Car

  1. Portable: If you have a portable AC, you can readily carry it around. Also, you will be free to position it wherever you want. This could be on the armrest of your car or even on the window of your car. If you are a fan of adventure, you can readily carry this device when you are going camping or even a picnic.
  2. Little or no installation: Since this device is handheld, you might not necessarily encounter challenges when installing it. In fact, it can stand on its own and still function optimally.
  3. Cools and dehumidifies the air at the same time: If you buy a portable air conditioner for your car, you will not only be able to cool the air around your car but also dehumidify it. As a result, you will be left with a cool and dry space. This can go a long way in keeping allergies at bay.
  4. Affordable: Most portable ACs are affordable. If you notice the cost of repairing your car’s AC will be too high, you can consider looking for this portable device to carry out the same task your regular AC does. In fact, you can get an excellent portable cooler for not more than $200 and have it last for ages. Apart from this, these devices are usually energy-efficient. This can help you save more money on energy bills.
  5. Ideal for small spaces: Since cars usually have small spaces inside, these portable devices are ideal for cooling the air around this area. Also, these portable ACs are ideal if you reside in a small apartment or house. Since you do not need to install it permanently, you can be sure that the setup process will be a walk in the park.

Disadvantages of Portable Car Air Conditioner

  1. Noise: Some models can be noisy when they are in use. Since you will have this device with you, almost all the time, you might not enjoy the experience if you normally like having some peace of mind. Sometimes, this device can drown out music or even conversations.
  2. Water management issue: Once the portable AC dehumidifies the air, it has to go somewhere else. Ideally, this water should end up outside. However, for the portable air conditioner, it has to be placed near the window where the exhaust pipe will carry this water outside. This can inconvenience you since it limits the place where you can set up this device.
  3. Limited cooling space: Unlike the ordinary air conditioners, which cover more space, this kind of air conditioner usually cools only a small space. This is the reason why these devices are ideal for small cars. If your car has a larger interior, it might not be very effective. Also, if you choose to use it outdoor, you will only enjoy the cooling effect within a limited range.

FAQ – Frequently Ask Questions

What is the difference between a portable air conditioner and an air cooler?

When using a portable air conditioner, you can readily set the desired room temperature the way you please. Here, this air conditioner will perform its work until this temperature is reached. However, an air cooler is different as you cannot set the desired temperate.

How can I keep my car cool without AC?

If you do not have an AC in your car, you can still cool it by hanging a wet rag over the middle vent of your car. Also, you can wrap frozen water bottles and then rest them against your seat behind your neck. Finally, you can pack your car under a shade.

Is a Fan Enough to Cool a Car?

No. There are many other ways you can cool your car. For instance, if you keep your car under a shade for long, even when the fan is not working, the car will still remain cool. Also, a dashboard cover can help keep your car cool for longer.

Can I put coolant in my car when it’s hot?

Yes. You can go ahead and add fresh coolant or what is commonly referred to as antifreeze to the cooling system. However, as you do this, you should wait until the engine is cool to avoid potential accidents.

Final Recap

As seen, portable car air conditioners are real deals. Therefore if your car’s AC is faulty, you should not panic as you can still use a portable AC to cool down the temperatures and still enjoy more comfort. The above-mentioned portable ACs for cars have been tested and proved to be very effective. Invest in them today, and you will not be frustrated.

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