How to Stock Your RV Kitchen

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RV Kitchen Essentials for Cooking on the Road

My husband and I love to cook. He is an awesome home chef and he’s always coming up with really inventive meals (with tons of flavor). I love cooking, too, and my specialty is tasty soups/chowders and creative salads. When we set off for our year on the road, we were a bit worried that we wouldn’t have what we needed to make the type of meals we prefer.

While RV kitchens have come a long way, cooking in one still has its challenges. Small spaces, limited storage, and the need to keep weight in check mean you have to be picky about what earns a spot. Over time, we’ve figured out which tools and appliances make life easier and cooking on the road just as enjoyable as at home—whether we’re grilling outside or making a meal indoors. Most modern RVs come equipped with a microwave/convection oven combo. Some models even include full-size ovens, outdoor burners, Blackstone-type griddles, or well-designed outdoor kitchens with everything you need to cook outside.

Our R-Pod 192 RV has outdoor gas burners and an indoor gas range, plus a microwave/convection oven combo. We prefer cooking outside whenever possible because our RV is small, and smells tend to linger. Grilling or cooking outdoors also just feels more fun—it’s part of the RV experience. But when the weather doesn’t cooperate, our indoor setup gets the job done. From grilling steaks outside to roasting veggies in the convection oven, we’ve found ways to make delicious meals no matter where we’re cooking.

RV Kitchen Essentials for Full-Time Rvers

Here’s a complete list of the tried-and-true essentials we rely on (or think may make a great option) to keep cooking in our RV fun, flavorful, and frustration-free.

Cookware

Pots and Pans

Why They’re Essential:
Having a good set of pots and pans is key in an RV kitchen where space is limited. A few good pans are necessary for cooking a variety of meals, but they need to earn their keep. We use our 8-inch and 10-inch fry pans the most for everyday cooking. I highly recommend choosing stackable pots and pans sets, as it keeps everything organized and makes it easy to store. Some sets are even oven-safe, so they can double as cookware for the convection oven.

I prefer stainless steel myself, and because we cook a lot, it was worth investing in a good set. However, there are great budget-friendly sets out there, too.

At a Minimum:

  • 8-inch fry pan
  • 10-inch fry pan
  • 4-quart saucepan (perfect for soups, sauces, or boiling pasta)

Recommended Stackable Sets:

Cast Iron Pans

Why They’re Essential:
Cast iron is durable, versatile, and great for cooking outdoors. While we don’t use it inside the RV due to heat retention, it’s a staple for outdoor cooking. We always turn to cast iron for bacon (nothing beats bacon on a cast iron skillet), steaks, or pancakes over a campfire.

At a Minimum:

  • 10.25-inch cast iron skillet (great for frying, sautéing, and more)
  • Cast iron scraper (to make cleaning easier)

Recommended Brands:

  • Lodge Cast Iron Skillet (10.25-Inch)
    This is our everyday outdoor skillet. It’s perfect for frying, sautéing, and even baking when camping. With proper seasoning, it becomes naturally non-stick and lasts forever.
  • Lodge Cast Iron Grill Pan (10.5-Inch)
    This is our go-to for grilling outdoors without firing up the full grill. The ridges give you beautiful grill marks, and it’s great for steaks, chicken, or even veggies.
  • Lodge Cast Iron Skillet (6.5-Inch)
    This smaller skillet is perfect for cooking individual portions or side dishes. It’s great for eggs, toasting spices, or making a small dessert over the fire.
  • Lodge Cast Iron Scraper Set
    These small, sturdy tools are designed to make cleaning cast iron a breeze without damaging the seasoning.

Silicone Baking Dish and Molds

Why They’re Essential:
Silicone bakeware is lightweight, flexible, and ideal for RVs. It doesn’t take up much space, is easy to clean, and works beautifully in a convection oven. We use our 9×9 silicone baking dish for casseroles and roasted veggies, and our silicone cupcake mold is perfect for making egg bites—an easy, portable breakfast or snack.

At a Minimum:

  • 9×9 silicone baking dish (perfect for casseroles and roasting)
  • Silicone cupcake mold (great for egg bites or baked treats)

Recommended Brands:

  • Silicone 8×8 Baking Dish
    A simple, versatile dish that’s easy to store and can handle everything from casseroles to roasted veggies.
  • Silicone Cupcake Mold
    Great for making egg bites or baked treats. It’s reusable, compact, and easy to clean—perfect for RV kitchens.

Aluminum Disposable Pans (Optional)

Why They’re Useful:
While we’re mindful of the environmental impact of single-use items, sometimes disposable pans are the best option—especially when boondocking with limited water for cleaning. Aluminum disposable pans are lightweight, versatile, and perfect for meals where easy cleanup is a priority. If the pan stays clean, you can even reuse it a few times before recycling, which helps make them a bit more sustainable.

An 8×8 aluminum pan fits perfectly in a convection oven, making it ideal for casseroles, baked goods, or roasting small portions. These pans are also great for special occasions or dishes that require larger cookware you don’t want to carry full-time, like roasting a holiday turkey or grilling over a firepit. And you can pick these up at pretty much any grocery store.

At a Minimum:

  • A few medium or large aluminum pans (8×8 size is perfect for convection ovens)

Dishes and Drinkware

Dishware

Figuring out the right dishes and drinkware for an RV is all about finding what works best for you. “Real” plates are great for meals like eggs or steak—because let’s face it, some meals just taste better on a proper plate. But when we’re boondocking or just don’t feel like washing up, compostable plates are a lifesaver. It really comes down to how much space you have and how often you want to deal with dishes.

Why It’s Essential:
A mix of dishware gives you flexibility on the road. Real plates are durable and reusable, making them perfect for everyday meals, while compostable plates are ideal for quick, no-fuss meals when you want to save water or avoid washing up.

At a Minimum:

  • A set of four “real” plates (durable and lightweight)
  • A set of bowls for soups, cereal, or snacks
  • Compostable bamboo or sugarcane plates for easy cleanup

Recommended Options:

  • Corelle Dishware Set: Lightweight, chip-resistant, and stacks easily to save space. Perfect for RV travel.
  • ECOLipak Compostable Paper Plates (10-inch and 8-inch): Heavy-duty, eco-friendly sugarcane plates that are biodegradable (break down in compost) and perfect for boondocking or times when water is limited. Also, love the square as they fit better in the cupboard.

Drinkware

Drinkware should match your favorite beverages and be durable enough for travel. Insulated mugs are perfect for morning coffee, reusable tumblers are great for wine or cocktails, and koozies keep your beer cold while you relax at the campsite. And if you have kids — water bottles or small straw cups that are easy to clean are a must.

Why It’s Essential:
Having the right drinkware makes it easy to enjoy your favorite beverages on the road. Whether it’s coffee, wine, or beer, durable and insulated options are a must for RV life. Ideally, you want 1-2 cups per person, and maybe a few extras for when you have guests, or your cups are dirty/lost, in the tow vehicle, etc.

At a Minimum:

  • Insulated coffee mugs (you may want to make sure they fit in your tow vehicle cup holders)
  • Reusable wine glasses or tumblers (made from non-breakable materials like Tritan or stainless steel)
  • Beer koozies for cans and bottles
  • A couple of enamel camp mugs for charm and practicality

Recommended Options:

  • BrüMate or Yeti Coffee Mugs: Keeps coffee hot for hours, perfect for sipping outside your RV. Though, we use ours for really any type of drink.
  • BrüMate Wine Tumblers or Rocks Glasses: Durable, stylish, and ideal for wine, cocktails, or even soda.
  • BrüMate Koozies: We love the 3-in-1 because it does the job of many.
  • Reusable Water Bottles: Stainless steel options like Hydro Flask are durable, eco-friendly, and great for staying hydrated.
  • Enamel Camp Mugs: Fun and functional, with adventure sayings like “Wild and Free” or “Adventure Awaits.” A tiny 4 oz enamel mug is a sweet option for kids.
  • For Kids: The Pura Kiki stainless bottles grow with your child, and the Nuby Straw Cups are simple, easy to clean, and great for littles. I also like the tiny Yeti’s for kids, or the budget-friendly 4oz enamel cup.

Specialty Tools

Having the right tools can make cooking in an RV easier and more enjoyable. Space is limited, so it’s important to prioritize versatile, high-quality tools that can handle a variety of tasks. These carefully chosen essentials will have you covered for everything from quick meals to more gourmet creations.

Everyday Tools:

  • Kitchen shears: Multi-purpose for cutting herbs, meat, or even packaging.
  • Metal spatula: Use with cast iron pans and griddle cooking.
  • Silicone spatula: Safe for non-stick cookware and heat-resistant for high-temperature use.
  • Omelette spatula: Great for flipping delicate foods like eggs or pancakes.
  • Wooden spoon: Gentle on all cookware and great for stirring sauces or soups.
  • Tongs: Essential for flipping, serving, or tossing salads.
  • Whisk: Perfect for making pancakes, scrambling eggs, or mixing sauces.
  • Vegetable peeler: A must for prepping fruits and veggies.
  • Chef’s knife: A high-quality, all-purpose knife for chopping, dicing, and slicing.
  • Paring knife: Great for smaller, precise tasks like peeling or trimming.
  • Large mixing bowl: Ideal for preparing batters, tossing salads, or mixing ingredients.
  • Magnetic measuring cups and spoons: Stackable and space-saving, with options for dry and liquid measurements.
  • Cutting board: Thin and lightweight options are perfect for RVs, and wooden boards are gentle on knives.
  • Mason jars: Incredibly versatile for storing leftovers, measuring ingredients, or even as drinking glasses.

Specialty Tools:

  • Grater and slicer set: Includes grating and slicing surfaces for prepping cheese, veggies, and more.
  • Kitchen torch: Adds a professional touch to dishes and doubles as a campfire starter.
  • Tupperware: Nesting, durable containers that can double as serving bowls or bakeware.

Optional Extras:

  • Dish Drying Pad: Compact and quick-drying to make dish cleanup easier in a small space. Some RVs come with over-the-sink dryers, but we still prefer having this option because it keeps everything less damp and more hygienic.
  • Olive Oil Sprayers: Handy for grilling or cooking on a Blackstone griddle, allowing for better portion control and even coverage.
  • Basting Brush: Perfect for grilling or baking when you want to apply marinades, butter, or sauces.
  • Restaurant Turner: Heavy-duty and ideal for flipping burgers, pancakes, or other griddle favorites.

Recommended Options:

Kitchen Appliances We Love

You don’t need any appliances to cook in your RV, but if you’re living or traveling full-time, they can make life so much easier. Of course, storage and space are always a factor. It’s worth thinking about how often you’ll use an appliance and where it will go when it’s not in use.

When we’re in one spot for a few days, we’ll often set up a small table outside for appliances like the Instant Pot or ice maker. And we always depressurize it outside. On hotter days, though, the ice maker can’t always handle being outside—so we put it in the shower while running a few batches. At night, we tuck it away to keep everything neat and out of the way. Small adjustments like these help us make the most of our space while still enjoying the convenience of appliances.

Some appliances can even do double duty. For example, the Instant Pot pan can double as a mixing bowl for the immersion blender, saving both space and cleanup time.

Everyday Appliances:

  • Pressure cooker: Compact and incredibly versatile, perfect for making stews, meatloaf, whole chicken, and even desserts. It’s great for outdoor setup to save space inside or rainy day cooking indoors.
  • Immersion blender: A sleek, powerful tool for blending soups, sauces, or smoothies right in the pot without dirtying extra dishes.
  • Microwave/convection oven combo: Many RVs come equipped with these, allowing you to bake, roast, or toast without needing extra appliances.
  • Portable ice maker: If your RV doesn’t have a built-in ice maker, a countertop version can quickly make ice and save you from store runs. For the best-tasting ice, use filtered water—it makes a noticeable difference, especially for drinks.
  • Coffee press: Even though it’s not technically an appliance, a coffee press is an RV essential for making great coffee without relying on electricity.

Optional Appliances:

  • Air fryer: Great for quick, crispy meals without using the stove or oven. Compact models can easily store in cabinets.
  • 3-in-1 waffle iron: Perfect for making waffles, grilled sandwiches, or paninis. This is especially great if you have kids or follow a keto diet—we use ours regularly.
  • Toaster oven: If you don’t have a convection oven, a toaster oven is a great alternative for baking or broiling small meals.
  • Electric kettle: Perfect for tea drinkers or when you need boiling water fast.
  • Coffee Pot/Maker: If you have extra counter space, and like a few cups of coffee, you may a small coffee pot, coffee machine, French Press, or Percolator.

Recommended Options

Pantry Essentials

Stocking the RV pantry is a lot like stocking your pantry at home. Most of the items you’ll bring don’t weigh much, and chances are, you’ll use them regularly. The trick is finding the right balance of essentials and extras so you’re prepared for everything from quick snacks to full meals, without overloading your limited storage space.

Everyday Basics:
These are the staples that form the foundation of most meals.

  • Salt, pepper, and basic spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, and chili powder are versatile picks.
  • Cooking oils: A good olive oil for low-heat cooking and a neutral oil like avocado or canola for high-heat.
  • Flour and sugar: Small containers work best to keep these fresh and manageable.
  • Rice, pasta, and quinoa: Easy, filling bases for meals that store well.
  • Canned goods: Beans (black, kidney, garbanzo), tomatoes, coconut milk, and broths are pantry lifesavers.
  • Oats: Perfect for quick breakfasts or adding to baked goods.
  • Nut butter: Peanut, almond, or sunflower butter adds protein and works for snacks or recipes.
  • Honey or maple syrup: For sweetening tea, drizzling on oatmeal, or baking.

Snacks and Quick Meals:
For long drives or lazy days, these are great to have on hand.

  • Granola bars or trail mix
  • Chips and salsa
  • Crackers and peanut butter
  • Shelf-stable soups or instant noodles

Kitchen Staples for Prep and Cleanup:
These items are essential for prepping and storing food, as well as managing cleanup on the road.

  • Foil and parchment paper: Great for grilling, baking, or wrapping leftovers.
  • Ziploc bags: We like to keep a mix of one-time use and reusable silicone bags for marinating, storing snacks, or freezing leftovers.
  • Paper towels: We prefer Viva paper towels for travel because it sticks to itself, making it less likely to roll loose or fall apart during bumpy drives.

Extras We Love:
These aren’t essentials, but they make RV cooking more fun and flavorful.

  • Specialty spices: If you love to cook, bring a few extras like smoked paprika, turmeric, or curry powder.
  • Hot sauces and condiments: Sriracha, soy sauce, and barbecue sauce are some of our go-to favorites.
  • Baking supplies: Baking powder, baking soda, vanilla extract, and chocolate chips, in case you want to whip up cookies or pancakes.
  • Shelf-stable milk or creamers: Great for coffee, cereal, or recipes.

Tips for Pantry Storage:

  • Use stackable bins or baskets to maximize space and keep everything organized.
  • Opt for small containers to transfer pantry items like flour, sugar, or rice.
  • Store anything prone to spilling (like oil or syrups) in a plastic container to prevent messes.

Packet Drawer Tip:
We keep a small craft box as our packet drawer, and it’s worked out well. We use it to organize all those condiment packets you pick up from fast food stops—ketchup, soy sauce, hot sauce, and more. That way we always have shelf-stable options, without having to pick up a full-size condiment.

Cleaning Your RV Kitchen

When it comes to cleaning your RV kitchen, you don’t want to use harsh chemicals—smells tend to linger in such a small space, and who wants to be surrounded by heavy chemical fumes? Instead, we stick to products that are effective but gentle, both on us and the environment.

Thankfully, cleaning a small RV is quick and easy compared to a full-sized home. With less square footage to manage, even big messes feel manageable. Over time, we’ve learned to keep it simple by relying on a few favorite products that we know work well.

One of our go-to cleaning staples is castile soap. It’s biodegradable, plant-based, and incredibly versatile, making it perfect for RV life. You can use it for washing dishes, cleaning counters, or even in a pinch as hand soap. It gets the job done without leaving behind harsh smells or residues.

Cleaning Essentials:

  • Dish soap: We like using castile soap as often as possible. It’s gentle on the environment and works for everything from dishes to cleaning surfaces. Though, for tough grease messes, we do use commercial soap.
  • Scrub brushes and sponges: Compact options are best. A small dish brush with a built-in soap dispenser can save time and reduce clutter.
  • Paper towels: Viva paper towels are our go-to when driving because they stick to themselves and don’t unravel on bumpy roads.
  • Microfiber cloths: Great for wiping counters, drying dishes, or cleaning windows. They’re reusable, quick-drying, and save on paper towel usage.
  • Baking soda and vinegar: Multi-use staples for scrubbing, deodorizing, and unclogging drains.
  • Windex cleaner: Pre-moistened wipes are perfect for quickly cleaning mirrors and windows inside the RV.

Recommended Options:

  • Dr. Bronner’s Castile Soap: A biodegradable, multi-purpose soap that’s gentle on the environment. Can even be used for laundry, shampoo, etc.
  • Bar Keepers Friend: Tough enough to handle rust, grease, and stubborn stains without harsh chemicals.
  • Dawn Powerwash Spray: Quick and efficient for cutting through grease and cleaning dishes.
  • Viva Paper Towels: Durable and convenient, they stick to themselves and won’t unravel during travel.
  • Windex Wipes: Compact and perfect for streak-free cleaning on mirrors and windows.

RV Kitchen Setup Tips

Setting up your RV kitchen is all about working with the space and resources you have. Limited storage, weight restrictions, and power usage mean you have to be intentional about what you bring along. Over time, we’ve learned a few tips to help you make the most of your RV kitchen:

Know Your Wattage Limits

This is one of the most important things to understand in your RV kitchen. When using appliances, always check their wattage. In a 30-amp RV, for example, if your coffee maker is 600 watts, you probably can’t run it, your microwave, and your AC at the same time without tripping a breaker. Plan your appliance usage carefully to avoid frustration.

Know Your Weight

Weight matters in an RV—not just for driving safety, but also for your kitchen’s storage capacity. Be mindful of how much you’re carrying. If there’s something you’re not using regularly, ask yourself if you really need it. If not, consider donating it to a campground neighbor or leaving it at a gear exchange. It’s a great way to lighten your load and help someone else out.

Maximize Storage Space

  • Use Vertical Space: Install hooks, magnetic strips, or hanging racks to utilize wall space for utensils, pots, and pans.
  • Stackable and Nesting Items: Opt for stackable containers and nesting cookware to save cabinet space.
  • Collapsible Tools: Collapsible colanders, bowls, and measuring cups can significantly reduce the space they take up when not in use.

Secure Items for Travel

  • Non-Slip Shelf Liners: Place these in cabinets and drawers to prevent items from sliding around while driving.
  • Bungee Cords and Tension Rods: Use them inside the fridge or cabinets to keep contents from shifting.
  • Latch Locks: Ensure all cabinets and drawers have secure latches to prevent them from opening during transit.

Optimize Counter Space

  • Multi-Purpose Items: Use cutting boards that fit over the sink or stovetop to extend your workspace.
  • Fold-Down Extensions: Install a fold-down countertop extension if you need more prep area.
  • Limit Countertop Appliances: Store appliances when not in use to keep counters clear.

Easy Accessibility

  • Frequently Used Items: Keep everyday essentials like salt, pepper, and cooking oil within easy reach.
  • Magnetic Knife Strip: Saves drawer space and keeps knives easily accessible (just ensure it’s secure for travel).
  • Hanging Baskets: Use them for fruits, vegetables, or other items that don’t need refrigeration.

Personal Touches

  • Decorative Elements: Small plants, a favorite mug, or a fun dish towel can make the space feel more like home.
  • Customize Storage Solutions: Don’t be afraid to modify or add storage solutions that fit your specific needs.

Safety Measures

  • Fire Extinguisher: Always have one accessible in the kitchen area.
  • Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Regularly check that they’re functioning properly.
  • Ventilation: Use vent fans or open windows when cooking to reduce moisture and odors.

Here’s a video of our R-Pod 192 RV setup and kitchen organization—take a peek at how we make it all work:

Cooking in an RV is surprisingly simple, but we’ve learned that the “too many cooks in the kitchen” rule definitely applies. Most RV kitchens are designed for one person to work efficiently—any more, and things can feel crowded fast. When the weather cooperates, we love to take advantage of outdoor space, using our portable table or the campsite picnic table for prepping meals.

What about you? Do you have any go-to tips or favorite tools that make RV cooking easier? Drop me a comment and tell me all about it.

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2 Comments

  1. Laurie Blacker

    Great ideas here! I’d add our collapsible silicone colander to your list of must haves though. That time in the UP when I dumped a whole pot of noodles on the ground while trying to drain the pot convinced me I needed to upgrade our equipment. When not in use it lies flat on top of our set of four bamboo dinner plates and our two pasta bowls.

    Reply

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