One of the biggest challenges of camping is preparing and cooking meals that aren't 2 minute noodles or baked beans with cheese. That's why we've put together our camping kitchen list packed with everything you need to create delicious, nutritious meals while enjoying the outdoors.
Stove and Fuel
First things first, you'll need a stove and fuel to cook your meals. Our camping kitchen pulls out the side of Bonnie the Troopy; we simply hook up the gas bottle. You can find reliable camping stoves for $50 that run on propane, which is readily available at most camping stores and hardware stores and is easy to use. We have two burner so that we can make toast and eggs at the same time.
Cookware and Utensils
Our camping kitchen also includes cookware specifically designed for the outdoors. Aim for something made with hard anodised aluminium. This makes it lightweight, durable and easy to clean. It'll heat up in seconds which is important when cooking in cool temperatures and helps conserve gas or propane.
What we have in our camping kitchen box:
- 1 x fry pan
- 2 x pots
- 1 x spatula
- 1 x stirring spoon
- 1 x tongs with plastic tips
- 1 x metal tongs for the fire
- 1 x percolator
- 1 x collapsible kettle
- 1 x camp toaster
- 1 x chopping board
- 3 x sharp knives in different sizes
Storage Containers
These are a must! Make two meals in one and pack up your leftovers for the next night. We also store fruit and veg that bruises easily or get squished in the fridge in containers to keep them fresh and edible. Zip lock bags are handy for things like cooked rice, pasta or open packets.
Cleaning
No one enjoys cleaning up after messy meals, particularly when camping. We're going to sound old, but the best cleaning product we've found so far is Fairy Eucalyptus Dishwashing Spray. It makes washing up greasy pots a dream and doubles as a bench spray if you need to wipe anything else down. One spray a little warm water, and you're done. We have a stove in our pull out camping kitchen, if you don't have one simply grab yourself a collapsible sink. I'd choose a collapsible sink over a collapsible bucket as the size and shape make it easier.
What we have in our cleaning side of the camping kitchen box:
- 1 x dish brush
- 1 x Chux wipes
- 1 x Fairy eucalyptus dishwashing spray
- 1 x paper towel
- 2 x tea towels
- 1 x collapsible dish rack
Other Gear
We love cooking over the fire when camping, and we also keep a jaffle iron, grill plate, and bbq brush with our camping kitchen gear. If you love a toasted sandwich, then the jaffle iron is a must. Pop an egg and bacon into it, leftover mexican or keep it simple with cheese and tomato. I'm drooling just thinking about it.
We've made a hell of a lot of meals over the fire and on our stovetop, from curries to mexican and simple camping risotto. With every meal and trip, we've refined our box down to ensure we're not lugging around unnecessary items.
So why not pack up your camping gear and head out to the great outdoors? We're sure you'll love the experience, and with our camping kitchen, you'll be well-fed and well-equipped for the journey.
