CTEK CS FREE Storage Case
A Place for Everything and Everything in Its Place
When I first reviewed the CTEK CS Free - here, I was mightily impressed with what it could do - jump-start a dead car without needing another vehicle, charge your gadgets, and topping up your battery without the need of a wall socket. It’s a very clever devise that can make you look like a roadside superhero. But as good as it was, I did have a little moan: for something that costs a fair bit and comes with a few important cables and accessories, it didn’t come with a proper case.
You know what it’s like, one minute you’ve got everything neatly coiled up and ready to go, and the next, the charging lead’s rolled under the seat, the clamps are in the glovebox, and that USB-C cable you definitely put in the boot is now living its best life somewhere in the garage.
So, when I spotted that CTEK had brought out a storage case specifically for the CS range, I thought, “About time!” and promptly ordered one.
And I’ll be honest - life is better now.
First Impressions
CTEK doesn’t do things by halves, and the CS Storage Case is no exception. It’s not some flimsy afterthought of a bag, but a proper, well-made bit of kit. The case is semi-rigid, tough, durable and lightweight, and covered in a tough, wipe-clean fabric that feels like it could take a knock or two, ideal for life bouncing around in a 4x4’s boot.
It’s made from heavy duty 600D water repellent nylon with a protective padded interior and a practical carrying handle. Being weather-resistant is handy if, like me, you’re often outdoors when it’s less than tropical. While it’s not waterproof (so don’t chuck it in a river to test it), it’ll shrug off a bit of rain or muddy splash without complaint.
There’s a sturdy zip that runs almost all the way around, allowing it to open up like a book, and the aforementioned handle feels strong enough to survive years of being yanked out from under camping gear, toolboxes, or (in my case) a large muddy dog who insists on sitting on everything.
Inside, there’s a dedicated space for the CS Free itself, and compartments for the various cables and accessories, so you can finally stop chucking them in random drawers or gloveboxes. Everything’s snug, organised, and accessible.
Practicality and Ease of Use
Let’s be honest, this is just a storage case., it’s not going to make your 4x4 faster or your brew taste better, but it does make life a whole lot easier. The CTEK CS Free is brilliant, but it’s not a small device, and when you add in the clamps, charger, leads, and any optional extras, you’re juggling quite a few bits.
With the case, you simply open it up and everything’s where it should be. Need the clamps? They’re there. Need the USB-C lead? No more rummaging. Need to impress your mate who’s broken down again in his ancient Defender? You can do it all with the smooth efficiency of someone who’s got their life together.
Another bonus is protection. The case’s rigid design keeps your CS Free safe from the usual knocks and bumps of outdoor life. Whether you’re chucking it into the back of your truck, camper, or tent, you don’t have to worry about damaging the screen or connectors. The interior padding and clever layout mean it all stays secure and scratch-free.
The size is just about right too. It’s compact enough to tuck away easily but large enough that you don’t feel like you’re playing Tetris trying to get everything to fit. It’s also easier to store neatly in the 4x4, and it doesn’t get lost amongst the other bits of kit.
Any Drawbacks?
If I were to nitpick, I’d say it’s a shame this wasn’t included with the CS Free from the start, it really should have been.
Of course, being CTEK it’s well-made, and at around £29.00 it’s not particularly cheap. However, quality costs, and given how much grief it saves, in my opinion at least, it’s money well spent.
Final Thoughts
In a world full of overcomplicated gadgets and pointless accessories, the CTEK CS Storage Case is refreshingly simple. It doesn’t promise to change your life, but it might just make it a little easier - and tidier.
If you’ve already got a CS Free (or one of its siblings), I’d say this case is a must-have. It turns a great bit of kit into a properly portable, professional setup. It keeps everything together, protected, and ready for action, and it satisfies that deep, primal urge to have all your stuff neatly organised.
So, yes, I’ll happily admit it: I moaned about the CS Free not coming with a case, and now that I’ve bought one, I can’t imagine being without it.
It’s not the most glamorous purchase you’ll ever make, but like a good brew on a cold morning, it just makes everything better. If you’re the proud owner of a CTEK CS Free, this little case is the cherry on top - or rather, the lid on the box.
Website: CS Free Case
Website: CS Free