For living on the road with your motorhome kitchen, you need to find a balance between having everything you need to prepare meals and making the most of the limited space, electricity, and water you’ve got available. That’s why choosing the right campervan kitchen equipment is really important. And the ideal setup isn’t always the one with the most gadgets – it’s the one that gives you the cooking facilities you actually use, without taking up valuable space.
Here are some appliances and essentials that are really worth considering for most campervan kitchens.
Campevan Hob
A decent campervan hob is one of the most useful pieces of campervan kitchen equipment, giving you a dedicated spot for preparing hot meals on the road. Getting the right one will depend on how much cooking you do and just how much space you’ve got available. Two-burner hobs are usually a good bet for compact kitchens, whilst three-burner models offer a bit more flexibility when you’re cooking up several dishes at once. You’ve also got to think about whether a gas or electric hob is best for your motorhome – take into account your power supply, fuel situation and overall kitchen layout, and you’ll be a lot clearer on what you need.
If you’re after a compact cooking solution, an induction hob is a pretty good choice for a campervan. They’re designed with mobile kitchens in mind, so they give you a convenient cooking surface without the hassle of a gas hob. Plus, induction tech heats up your cookware super quickly and leaves a surface that’s as easy as can be to wipe clean afterwards.
Fridge/Freezer
A fridge/freezer is another must-have in any well-equipped campervan kitchen, especially if you’re out on the road for a few days at a time. Not only can you keep your fresh ingredients and drinks safely stored, but it saves you having to pop into a shop at every stop. When choosing a campervan fridge, it’s worth thinking about how much storage space you actually need, how much of that space you want to be freezer, and how it’s all going to fit in with the rest of your kitchen.
Oven
Having an oven in your campervan kitchen is a major bonus if you like to whip up more complicated meals or want the option to bake, roast, and cook dishes that just won’t be right without the extra heat. But it does take up a considerable amount of space, so it’s not essential for everyone. If all you’re cooking up is simple fare, then a hob might be just fine. But those who get a kick out of proper cooking may well think it’s worth the extra room.
Microwave
A microwave can give you a whole lot more options when cooking on the move. It’s especially useful for reheating leftovers or warming up pre-made meals and can even be a lifesaver when you just need a quick bite without firing up the hob or oven. Still though, in a campervan, counter and storage space are at a premium, so you should have a think about how often you’d actually use a microwave before splashing out on one.
Kitchen Storage
There’s a big difference between a campervan kitchen that feels cramped and one that actually works. Good storage is key. Cupboards, drawers, and special storage for all your bits and bobs give you somewhere to stash food, cookware, utensils and all the rest without cluttering up your worktop. Make the most of what you’ve got by finding storage that’s easy to get into and built to last. The last thing you want is for your gear to go flying around the place whilst you’re driving.
Worktop and Preparation Area
Working space is almost as important as having the right equipment in a campervan kitchen, if you ask me. A decent-sized worktop gives you somewhere to chop your ingredients, get your meal prep done and lay out all your items while cooking. In a compact kitchen, fold-down or removable worktops can give you that bit extra when you need it. And best of all, they won’t be taking up valuable space all the time.
Optional Campervan Kitchen Equipment
While the absolute essentials will get you by for making your average meals, a few extra appliances can make life in a campervan a whole lot more convenient. However, you’ve got to think about how often you’ll actually use them, and if they’re worth the space and power they take up.
Coffee Machine
If you’re the kind of person who enjoys starting your day with a cup of joe, then a compact coffee machine can be a pretty sweet addition to your campervan kitchen. Of course, it all depends on the power requirements, the space you’ve got to spare on your countertop, and the storage space to fit the thing when it’s not in use.
Toaster
A toaster is one of those little extras that can make a big difference to your morning routine if you like toast, bagels, or other quick breakfast options. The question is, do you really use it that often? And is it worth giving up valuable storage space for?
Air Fryer
An air fryer is great for whipping up a quick meal with minimal mess – perfect for those times when you just can’t be bothered with a full-on cook-up. And the good news is, there are smaller, more campervan-friendly models out there. But bear in mind, you’ll need to make sure it doesn’t blow your electrical system, and you’ve got somewhere to stash it when it’s not in use.
Electric Kettle
For making tea, coffee, instant meals, and all the rest of your hot drink needs, an electric kettle can be a lifesaver – especially when you don’t want to use up your limited campervan fuel to heat things up on the hob. Look for a compact one that’s got a suitable power rating for your campervan’s electrical system. Don’t worry, there are plenty of smaller kettles out there that’ll still get the job done without hogging all your storage space.
Portable BBQ
A portable BBQ is a top choice for campervan enthusiasts. It lets you cook outside when the weather permits, keeping all that heat and cooking smell out of your vehicle. Just remember, a compact, easy-to-store model is probably your best bet. Don’t forget to check those campsite rules and restrictions before firing it up.
Last Updated on August 24, 2026
