If you are looking for information on campervan cooking equipment, you have come to the right place. Embarking on a journey in a campervan isn’t just about the destination—it’s about the adventure along the way, and what could be more adventurous than whipping up delicious meals on the open road?
This comprehensive guide delves into the world of campervan cooking equipment, unveiling the essential tools and gear needed to transform your tiny mobile kitchen into a culinary haven.
Being a chef for over ten years, I know the joys of cooking outdoors and how having the right equipment makes all the difference. My Campervan Cooking Equipment guide will list all the essentials to make cooking a dream.
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Campervan Cooking Equipment Essentials
Here is my list of campervan cooking equipment essentials to help you get on the road to cooking excellent meals. I have compiled a complete list of essential campervan cooking equipment everyone should have.
- Portable Stove: Opt for a compact propane or butane stove that can be easily stored when not in use. The benefit of having a compact stove is that it can be stored away when not in use. It’s also great because you can move it outdoors to dine al fresco. Some stoves I highly recommend are your basic portable camping stove. If you want something more fancy, use the double burner portable gas stove.
- Cookware Set: A set of nesting pots and pans that are lightweight and durable, preferably made of stainless steel, aluminium or non-stick. These are lightweight; if you stick a cloth in when nesting, they won’t make a rattling sound. I love these non-stick nesting pots and pans with detachable handle.
- Collapsible Sink or Basin: A collapsible sink or basin for washing dishes and food prep, which can be easily stored when not in use. Space is critical, so having a basin that can collapse has many uses. The sea-to-summit kitchen sink is perfect and portable.
- Portable Grill: A small portable grill for outdoor cooking, ideal for grilling meats, vegetables, and more. Having a small wire grill that you can use for outdoor fires is always perfect. They can fit under the bed wrapped in paper, or you can store them upright behind a counter. It’s easy to pick these up from old ovens, or you can grab a fancy grill from amazon for cooking outdoors.
- Cutlery and Utensils: This includes knives, forks, spoons, spatula, tongs, and cooking utensils such as a spoon and whisk. No need to go mad here. Just grab a fork, knife and spoon from your local Poundland or discount store. You can get a fancy spork, but get something cheap and cheerful. I always grab a few chopsticks, too. They are great for eating, turning bacon over in a pan or even whisking eggs with practice.
- Portable Cooler or Fridge: Opt for a portable cooler or fridge to keep perishable food items fresh, depending on your space and power source. A 24ltr 12v coolbox is perfect for most trips. You can store a range of items, and they don’t consume much power. If you require something more substantial, a 12v fridge with freezer is the way to go.
- Food Storage Containers: Airtight containers or storage bags to keep food organised and prevent spills or leaks. You can grab plastic tubs from most stores; I love using zip-lock bags. Before leaving home, I often vacuum seal meats and veg separately and place them in a coolbox. I bought a Food Saver Vacuum sealer on sale from Amazon. I will vacuum seal almost everything at home. (I even reseal large crisp packets if I don’t finish them).
- Portable Coffee Maker: Consider a portable coffee maker for coffee enthusiasts, such as a French press or a compact coffee percolator. If you absolutely love coffee, grab yourself and Aeropress on Amazon. They are compact; you only need a flash of hot water and a grinder (you can use preground, too).
- Portable Water Filter or Purifier: Ensure access to clean drinking water with a portable water filter or purifier. I use a Platypus water filter for hiking, camping and everything in between. Please read my article on my Platypus Filter for more information; it’s a significant kit.
- Collapsible Table and Chairs: A small folding table and chairs for outdoor dining and food prep. Having a foldable chair and table is ideal for storage. Get something that folds flat and can be placed on a bed or secured to the structure. For food prep, I always recommend wood. Plastic is excellent and lightweight, but it is a harbour for bacteria and germs. Get yourself a bamboo chopping board that is small and compact.
- Camping Stove Fuel: Make sure to stock up on appropriate fuel for your portable stove or grill, whether propane, butane or another fuel type. Store it away safely and label it so that you know what it is. Camping gas canisters are very safe, but you must be cautious if your campervan gets hot during the summer.
- Cooking Gadgets: These include a can opener, bottle opener, grater, and any other specific tools you might need for your recipes. Sometimes, these are great to have, and sometimes, they are necessary. A grater you could do without, but a can opener is always something you should have stored away. More and more cans are coming with ring pulls, but you can be guaranteed that the day you leave your can opener at home is the day you need it.
- Fire Starter Kit: For campfires or outdoor cooking, pack a fire starter kit, including matches, lighters, and fire starters. You can go all Bear Grylls and get a Firestick to light your fire with sparks; it looks cool but takes practice. Keep it Simple Stupid (KISS); use matches or a lighter. Even if the light runs out of fuel, you can still use the striker as a spark. Get an old metal sweet tin and store some cotton swabs with Vaseline as a fire starter.
- Cleaning Supplies: Dish soap, sponge, dish towel, and trash bags for cleaning up after meals. Try to select eco-friendly soaps. A big part of camping and cooking outdoors is respecting our environment. Use an eco-friendly soap that is great for washing dishes and your hands.
- Safety Equipment: This includes a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, and other safety gear recommended for camping. First aid kits come in all sizes, from personal first aid kits to groups. You will need sterile wipes, plasters, and bandages, and I always recommend putting in some steri strips and burn gel. Life Systems has a fantastic range of first aid kits that I always use, from personal tracking kits to mountain leader kits; I always have one in my car. For fire, get yourself a fire blanket and a small portable fire extinguisher for camping use.
Campervan Cooking
Remember to consider the size and weight of each item to ensure it fits comfortably in your small campervan without overcrowding the space.
Additionally, prioritise versatility and durability to maximise your campervan cooking experience. Cooking inside your campervan should be a joy and as safe as possible.
Various dangers come with cooking inside a campervan. Still, with some care, caution and preparation, there need not be an issue.
Buy the best you can afford and always take your time with safety. Using a tiny jet stove in a campervan might seem like a good idea, but the risk is not worth it.
Before you go…
If you need inspiration for cooking in your campervan, why not read my article on campervan cooking ideas.
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