Why I won't be using these BougeRV fridges

BougeRV Rocky 40 and CRD2 portable fridges failed our temperature accuracy tests - readings were 10-12 degrees Fahrenheit off from set temperatures. If you're considering either model for overlanding or camping, watch this before you buy. We tested both units and the results are concerning for food safety.

We wanted to love these BougeRV fridges - the Rocky 40 and CRD2 have great features, solid build quality, and competitive pricing. But after extensive testing, we discovered a critical flaw: temperature accuracy. The Rocky 40 ran 7 degrees off, the CRD2 large side ran 2.2 degrees off, and on average both units showed 10-12 degree variances from set temperatures. For meat storage and food safety, this is unacceptable.

*CHAPTERS:*
0:00 Introduction: BougeRV Rocky 40 & CRD2 Overview
0:49 Design Features: Cup Holders, Weight Capacity
1:07 Capacity: Rocky 40 (41qt) vs CRD2 (43qt Dual-Zone)
1:17 Power Options: 12V, 110V, 220V Adapters
1:29 App Control & Battery System
1:57 Battery Runtime Test: 10 Hours Indoor
3:06 USB Output & Solar Charging
3:27 Physical Features: Wheels, Tie-Downs, Drain Plugs
6:01 CRITICAL ISSUE: Temperature Accuracy Problems
6:17 Test Results: CRD2 Large Side -2.2°F Off
6:36 Test Results: Rocky 40 -7°F Off
6:54 Average Variance: 10-12°F Off Set Temperature
14:30 Final Verdict & Recommendations

*BOUGERV ROCKY 40 SPECS:*
Capacity: 41 quarts
Single zone fridge/freezer
Power: 12V, 110V, 220V adapters included
Optional battery: 15,600mAh (173 watt-hours)
Battery runtime: 6-10 hours (tested 10 hours at 70°F indoor)
Features: Cup holders, 661 lbs top weight capacity, internal light, removable basket, drain plug, reversible door, 8 tie-down spots
USB output for phone charging
Solar panel input for battery charging
Pull-out handle and wheels

*BOUGERV CRD2 SPECS:*
Capacity: 43 quarts dual-zone
Removable insert for single large zone
Power: 12V, 110V, 220V adapters included
Optional battery: 15,600mAh (173 watt-hours)
Battery runtime: 6-10 hours estimated
Features: Cup holders, 661 lbs top weight capacity, internal light, removable basket, drain plug, reversible door, 8 tie-down spots, 12V power input
USB output for phone charging
Solar panel input for battery charging
Pull-out handle and wheels

*Average Performance:*
Both units: 10-12°F variance on typical days
Temperature control unreliable for food safety
Meat storage at risk with these variances

*WHAT THIS MEANS FOR FOOD SAFETY:*
FDA recommends refrigerators maintain 40°F or below for food safety. USDA recommends freezers at 0°F for long-term meat storage. With 10-12 degree variances, you cannot trust these units to maintain safe temperatures without constant monitoring with a secondary thermometer.

*PROS:*
✓ Excellent design and aesthetics (best-looking fridges on market)
✓ Built-in cup holders (unique feature)
✓ 661 lbs top weight capacity (can sit on it)
✓ Dual-zone option (CRD2)
✓ Optional battery system with solar charging
✓ USB output for device charging
✓ Wheels and pull-out handle (easy transport)
✓ 8 tie-down spots for secure mounting
✓ Reversible doors
✓ Drain plugs for cleaning

*CONS:*
✗ CRITICAL: Temperature accuracy problems (10-12°F variance)
✗ Rocky 40: -7°F off set temperature
✗ CRD2: -2.2°F off set temperature
✗ Unreliable for food safety without secondary thermometer
✗ Cannot trust displayed temperature

*FINAL VERDICT:*
We cannot recommend either the BougeRV Rocky 40 or CRD2 due to temperature accuracy issues. While the design, features, and build quality are excellent, the 10-12 degree temperature variances make these units unreliable for food safety. If you already own one, use a secondary thermometer to verify actual temperatures.

*BIG THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS:*
Dirtbox Overland - Mention Trail Traveler for discount: http://dirtboxoverland.com
Progressive Suspension: http://progressivesuspension.com
Clayton Offroad: http://claytonoffroad.com
Super Springs - Save 15% with JOURNEYBETTER15: https://thetrailtraveler.com/go/super...

*OVERLANDING GEAR WE USE:*
Yankum Ropes & Recovery Gear (10% discount): https://thetrailtraveler.com/go/yanku...
Smittybilt Overlander Tent: https://thetrailtraveler.com/go/smitt...
Dometic CFX3 Fridge: https://thetrailtraveler.com/go/domet...

*JEEP BUILD DETAILS:*
Bagheera (Gladiator): https://revkit.com/bagheera/
Optimus (Wrangler): https://revkit.com/trailtraveler/

*SUPPORT THE CHANNEL:*
Patreon:   / thetrailtraveler  
Newsletter: https://thetrailtraveler.com/newsletter
Merch: https://shop.thetrailtraveler.com

*CONNECT WITH US:*
Instagram: @thetrailtraveler
Facebook: Trail Traveler
Website: https://thetrailtraveler.com

#BougeRV #Rocky40 #CRD2 #PortableFridge #FridgeReview #OverlandingGear #FoodSafety #TemperatureAccuracy #BougeRVReview #OverlandingFridge