Off-Road and Overland
Swamper
Conversions
Swamper
Conversions
Conversions
Guide to your Camper Kitchen
If you're planning a road trip in your campervan, one of the most important things you'll need to consider is your Camper Kitchen setup.
You'll need to be able to cook your meals while on the go! Luckily, there are plenty of great options available to make sure your campervan kitchen is functional and looks great. Here are some of the best campervan kitchen options out there.
Camper Kitchen Full Conversion - permanent option
If you’re looking for a more permanent option, then the full camper conversion might be the solution for you. These units run behind the driver's seat giving you lots of storage and include loads of campervan accessories. They will usually include appliances such as:
These kitchens are usually custom made to fit the specific layout of your van, and they often come with all the bells and whistles like full-sized appliances, plenty of storage, and countertops constructed from materials like wood or granite.
Built-in kitchens are great if you plan on spending a lot of time in your campervan or if you do lots of cooking while out on the road. They can also include fancy glamping options like:
- Microwave
- Coffee machine (we’ve fitted a Nespresso before)
- Toaster
You need to make sure your electrical system is up to scratch for these. Some will run off 12v power, other gadgets might need 240v. You might need solar panels to help power these extra appliances.
Camper Kitchen Pods - removable option
If you're looking for a compact and lightweight option for your campervan kitchen, then a portable kitchen is a great choice. These types of kitchens typically come with a small stovetop and a sink that can be hooked up to your van's water supply. Some also come with additional features like cabinets, drawers, and prep surfaces.
Removable kitchen pods are becoming more and more popular. You’re able to use your pod inside the vehicle and also take it out to use during the summer months. You’re also able to remove and use your van as a panel van when needed. A great not-so-permanent campervan solution.
You can then use this pod in your wind out awing or tent awning for extra space
Top things to consider when planning your camper kitchen
Storage space
When planning your camper kitchen, one of the things you'll want to consider is storage space. You'll need to have enough space to store all of your food, cookware, and other supplies. If you're short on space, you may need to get creative with your storage solutions.
Counter space
Another thing to consider is counter space. You'll need enough room to prep your meals and wash your dishes. If you don't have a lot of counter space, consider getting a portable prep station or installing additional shelves.
Fridge and Freezer
If you're planning on doing any cooking while on your camping trip, you'll need to have some form of refrigeration. This can be either a portable cool box or a small refrigerator that runs off of electricity. The Dometic CXR50 is the most popular fridge used in Campervan Conversions.
Cooker
You'll also need to decide what stove to use for cooking. If you plan on serious cooking, you'll need a propane stove. However, if you're looking to do some basic cooking, you can get by with a campfire or a portable stove that runs off of butane or Coleman fuel.
Utensils, pots and pans
Of course, you'll also need to have the proper cookware for whatever type of cooking you plan on doing. If you're just doing some basic camping meals, you can get by with a few pots and pans. However, if you're planning on doing more elaborate cooking, you'll need a more complete set of cookware.
It’s best to plan our what you’ll need before you plan your camper kitchen. That way, you can make sure you have enough storage space.
Rubbish/Waste
You’ll need to consider where you’ll put your waste when out on the road. Some people like to have a permanent place to keep their bins. Others don’t mind using plastic rubbish sacks.
Is it safe to cook in a campervan?
Campervan cooking comes with a totally different set of rules that must be followed in order to remain safe while cooking.
Proper ventilation is essential; campervans should always be equipped with a vent or fan to prevent buildup of smoke or heat due to extended periods of cooking. Additionally, campervan kitchens should always be kept clean — this will not only help keep everything running smoothly, but it also reduces the risk of getting sick by keeping harmful bacteria at bay.
Most importantly you need to remember you’re using gas in an enclosed space. Carbon dioxide is the byproduct of the combustion process. The gas isn’t toxic in small amounts, but can be dangerous if it builds up in an enclosed space - like your campervan. Ventilation is important, but you should also make sure you have a carbon monoxide detector in your van. Make sure you regularly check that it’s in good working order.
Fires are another risk to consider. Before cooking make sure the area is well ventilated and ensure you have a fire extinguisher on hand in case of emergency. Avoid using open flames or leaving your cooker unattended.
Alway ensure you test your appliances and gas system after the winter break. Giving your campervan a full health check should help prevent issues.
Always have the following safety equipment in your camper kitchen:
- Fire extinguisher
- Carbon monoxide detector
- First aid kit
Camper Kitchen FAQs
We’ve been doing this a long time. Here are some of the frequently asked questions we get regarding your Camper Kitchen:
Permanent campervan conversion vs campervan kitchen pod - what’s better?
This really boils down to personal choice. There are limitations you need to consider. You need to ask yourself the following questions:
- Where are you planning on going?
- How long are you going for?
- Do you plan on doing lots of cooking in the van?
- Do you plan on selling the van soon or keeping it for a long time?
- Do you have the budget for a full campervan conversion?
How do I stop everything moving around when we’re traveling?
This is a tricky one. More often than not you will move between campsites pretty much every night in a campervan. Unlike motorhomes where you might be inclined to stay in one place for longer. This is a problem with the items in your kitchen cupboards. Nothing worse than pulling away and hearing the dreaded “crash” from behind you!
We suggest using small foldable boxes inside the cupboards to keep things in place. Including inside your fridge freezer. Rubber matting is great to use on the base of the cupboards. This adds some grip to stop everything moving so much. Don’t buy anything glass for use in the van, stick to plastic cups and plates. Ol Pro have some awesome melamine camping crockery.
What are good meals you can cook in your campervan?
When it comes to camping recipes, keeping it nice and simple is what matters. Cooks of all skill levels can create delicious meals on an open flame outdoors or by using the gas cooker in your camper kitchen.
The key is to plan ahead and choose recipes that are simple yet flavorful. Foil is essential; you can use it to cook loads of really simple meals. For a show-stopping camping feast, grill up a juicy steak and serve alongside roasted veggies in foil packets with warm garlic butter sauce. Don't forget dessert - s'mores and ice cream are always crowd-pleasers!
Keep a small stock of basic herbs, spices and oils (in smaller quantities than at home) to jazz up any meal. There are loads of Campervan recipe books which you can find online. Just don’t go overboard!
Wildworx Camper Kitchen
No matter what type of campervan kitchen you choose, the most important thing is that it works for you and your needs. Be sure to take into consideration things like how much space you have, how often you'll be using it, and what type of cooking you'll be doing before making your final decision.
With so many great options available on the market today, we can help you come up with the perfect design for your Camper Kitchen. Get in touch with our team. Or if you're looking for something ready made - check out our campervans for sale.
