If you've ever been camping in Australia, you'll know the name "Bushman". But how does this small Aussie brand compare to the big global names in fridges? Is it worthy of your adventures? Our Bushman review reveals all.
First, some background.
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Who is Bushman?
"We're fridge experts - and have been for over 35 years. We've got all kinds of fridges, for camping, travelling and off-grid living."
This is how Bushman introduces itself. And we think you'll agree, building fridges for 35 years definitely makes them the experts. The brand puts its know-how into making portable fridges, compressor RV fridges, fridges for off-grid use, and a folding solar panel.
Another thing worth noting about Bushman is that since starting out in 1982, the brand has been an "100% Australian owned family company".
It's easy to see that they put a lot of TLC into their products. Almost all Bushman fridges have a hard steel exterior - which is different to many other camping fridges which use polypropylene. It means they are hardwearing and reliable in Australia's harshest conditions. Rain, hail, or shine, they stand the test of time.
There are lots of pros and cons to steel, with the major advantage being their exceptional strength. However it means that they can be heavier than their plastic counterparts... we find that some customers (especially tradies and farmers) prefer the steel cabinets as they can really task a knock in the back of their ute / truck.
Ultimately, it all comes down to Bushman's goal:
"Make the best quality off-grid fridges and accessories possible and continue to support our independent retailers and customers."
Simple, right?
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How Bushman is Taking on Global Brands
Bushman has happily flown under the radar...until now. Now, we're seeing incredible products that are taking it to a whole new level. Like the expandable portable fridge of which there isn't anything else like it in the market.
Repeat: this is a one-of-a-kind fridge!
The portable fridge can be expanded from 35 litres to 42 litres to 45 litres and even 52 litres. All in one portable fridge!
The fridge has a truly impressive power consumption of just 0.67amp hours/hr AND is covered by a 5-year warranty.
That's the thing about Bushman fridges - you get the confidence of knowing that every fridge is put through a rigorous quality control test before leaving their doors. They test the current draws and thermostat statistics, so each fridge is produced with its own performance graphs. Check their quality control messaging in this vid here:
Got a problem with your fridge? If you call the brand, you will talk to someone directly at Bushman in Australia. Now that's customer service!
Bushman knows that Australian's are venturing further and further from the beaten track. That's why they have fridges specifically designed for off-grid applications. So their range is not just for campers, but also for people off the grid.
These upright fridges are ideal for off-grid living, farms, holiday homes / weekenders and extended remote trips. Why? Because they have a low power and highly efficient absorption cooling system. In fact, they will run for up to THREE MONTHS on a 45kg gas bottle!
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What Do Our Customer's Say?
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Let's Recap Our Bushman Review
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Why Choose Bushman for Your Next Camping Fridge?
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High quality fridges made to last
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Bushman fridges feature the world-renowned Danfoss compressor
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Camping fridges come with a generous 5-year warranty
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Bushman fridges are built tough with most made out of steel
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Different capacities based on the application (check out the expandable fridge!)
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Also offer a range of 'Off-Grid' gas fridges
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Why Choose Another Brand?
Okay, we love Bushman but that doesn't mean they're for everyone. For example, their fridges don't feature any bells and whistles such as Wifi or Bluetooth control - they like to keep it simple!
Also, despite being around for 35+ years, the brand isn't as well known as global competitors such as Dometic and Engel.
And if it's a bargain you're after, there are cheaper fridge models on the market. But at the end of the day, you are buying quality!
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Our Verdict
As you've seen in our Bushman review, there's a lot to love about these Aussie Brand fridges. Ultimately, the thing that sets this brand apart is its focus on simplicity and reliability. If you're looking for a tough and reliable fridge, with no bells and whistles, Bushman has the one for you!
Need helping choosing a Bushman product that suits your needs? Give one of our product experts a call on 1300 400 122!
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DISCLAIMER* Please note, this advice is general in nature and we strongly recommend consulting the product manual and where relevant, a professional installer.
