It’s unbelievable how RVs have evolved in just a few short decades. The newer models are luxuriously equipped with outdoor kitchens, keeping you from going in and out of the RV so many times. RV outdoor kitchens range from a counter + simple camp stove to elaborate setups complete with a large flat panel tv. Take a look at some of the must-haves for an RV outdoor kitchen that you may be missing out on.
Must-Haves for an RV Outdoor Kitchen
That outdoor kitchen of yours might need a little work. Having the right items in any kitchen is important, but especially an outdoor one. Keep reading to discover all of these must-haves for an RV outdoor kitchen.
Our very first camper was a small pop-up camper. I remember how excited we were that it came with a 2-burner propane stove that attached to the outside wall of the camper. That was all our camper’s outdoor kitchen consisted of, so you can imagine how blown away we are by current versions!
At a recent RV show, we saw outdoor kitchens in all varieties. Of course, some campers did not have an outdoor kitchen at all! Others simply had a griddle or stove. Then there were models with every modern convenience you might be able to imagine!
We put together our must-haves for outdoor cooking at your campsite. If your RV has an outdoor kitchen built into it, you might be able to skip over some of these items (like the grill or refrigerator, for example). What you need to pick up will all depend on what came with your RV in the first place!
Coleman Road Trip Grill
Assuming your RV outdoor kitchen doesn’t have a grill built into it, this is an absolutely must-have. And if you’re planning on doing a lot of grilling, you’ll need a good grill that is easy to transport. These are several portable Roadtrip grills that are the right size and super easy to lug around. We have this model by Coleman. It folds down fairly flat and cooks some great tasting food!
Small Tables for Counter Space
Unless you have a pretty impressive RV outdoor kitchen, you’ll need a counter top for preparing your meals on and eating on. We love our Camco Deluxe Folding Grill Table!
Instant Pot
Are you planning an all-day hike and need something warm and hearty for when you return? Instant Pots are handy dandy pressure cookers that do an amazing job of cooking meals in minutes, or for meals later on in the day. Check out these RV Instant Pot meal ideas!
Countertop Ice Maker
Several of the RV models that we saw at a recent expo included an ice maker with the outdoor kitchen. Don’t over-estimate the amazingness of these machines… especially during hot summer months!
Spice Storage
Spice grinders and shakers can be hard to track down at times. We love cabinet mounted spice jar holders!
Measuring Tools
Perhaps you are whipping up some dessert to cook over the campfire. Maybe you just need a measuring cup to mix up some delicious adult beverages. Whatever the occasion, it’s always smart to stow a set of measuring cups and spoons in your outdoor kitchen drawer!
Utensils for Cooking, Grilling and Eating
It will be difficult preparing and enjoying your meals without good cooking utensils and eating utensils. If you plan to grill food at your campsite, invest in a nice set of grilling utensils to keep in your RV!
Cast Iron Griddle
Cast iron griddles are amazing, and if you don’t have one, it’s time that you invest in one. Nothing beats it, and they last forever. Place a cast iron skillet over 2 burners on your stove or they can even survive over a campfire!
Cutting Boards
Don’t forget to have a camping cutting board or two onboard, if cutting and dicing meat and vegetables on your outdoor kitchen is a must.
Small Refrigerator
A portable refrigerator that you can have plugged in outside, will keep you from heading in and out of the RV so often. Plus it keeps you within arm’s reach of your cooking station. This is assuming that your camper doesn’t come with a mini fridge in the outdoor kitchen. Many models include one!
Wall Mounted Bottle Opener and Bottle Cap Catcher Set
Not only are these wall mounted bottle openers convenient, the catcher also encourages people to toss their cap in the trash instead of littering around the campsite.
If Your RV Outdoor Kitchen Has a Sink
You might want to consider these additional items:
- Soap (hand soap and dish soap)
- Sponge
- Paper Towels
- Collapsible dish rack
While having an RV outdoor kitchen isn’t a must, it definitely makes things more convenient for you. That’s especially true if you’d rather be enjoying the weather instead of cooking inside. What are some other RV outdoor kitchen essentials that you bring with you?
PIN these RV Outdoor Kitchen Essentials to PINTEREST!
Counter space and storage is a premium. Where ya gonna put all this stuff?!!!!
Obviously it’s going to vary by model. In our 28 foot travel trailer, we keep the grill and folding kitchen table in the storage compartment at the front of the rv. Instant pot, ice maker and griddles are stowed under one of the benches. Utensils go in the drawers. You need to get creative with storage!
What brand of 5th wheel has the pull out kitchen with the table that you have a picture and video of?
I’m sorry, I’m not sure. I went back through my pictures from this RV show and do not have one showing the brand. I was able to zoom in on the dealer flyer and the unit was for sale by Stoltzfus RV in West Chester, PA. You might be able to find out the model by contacting them with my picture and seeing if they can ID it.