.........has anyone any experience of using one of the smaller items such as that fitted into caravans etc. We can take a couple of these with no probs and have seen some that run on gas or 12v.
We've always used camping fridges - never had the space for anything bigger. Obviously, their effectiveness is dependant on the size of your party. This year, we are taking 4 of them to cater for 4 people, although for the last few years we managed with 2 or 3. They do take some time (overnight) to chill out a fridgefull of warm beer, but you can take everything inside to below freezing in time. Running on gas, they use about 1 Camping Gaz 907 bottle in a week. Last year we plugged in to the DfH genny, and they seem to be more efficient on mains. Do NOT use them on 12 volt - they do take a fair current and will empty a 12V battery in only a few hours. The 12V facility is to use only when the engine is running - however, if you do this, make sure your auxilliary power outlet in the car (cigar lighter??) has heavy enough wires and fuses to take the load.
Another point - if you have to buy these, you may be better off buying them in France. I bought mine several years ago for half what they were in the UK. 2 years ago, a mate bought one in France for £75 (mains, gas, 12V AND 24V).
Hope this helps.
Del