When you’re travelling Australia in a caravan, your kitchen becomes more than just a place to cook—it’s the heart of your mobile home. Whether you’re whipping up a quick breakfast before hitting the road or slow-cooking dinner under the stars, having the right setup makes all the difference. As Australia’s number 1 caravan broker, we know that the right equipment can make or break your trip.
The trick is packing smart. You want gear that’s compact, multi-purpose, durable, and suited for both the indoor caravan kitchen and outdoor camp cooking. After years on the road (and more than a few cooking disasters), here’s our ultimate guide to setting up a caravan kitchen that actually works, thanks to advice from the best caravan broker in Australia.
1. Compact Gas BBQ or Stove
A portable BBQ or two-burner stove is a must for outdoor cooking. It keeps heat (and smells) out of the van and lets you enjoy meals under the awning.
👉 We recommend: Weber Baby Q Premium Gas BBQ
We’ve used this BBQ on countless trips and it hasn’t let us down once. It’s quick to fire up, easy to clean, and fits snugly in the van. But don’t just take our word for it—nearly every caravanning mate we have swears by the Baby Q. One friend even calls it “the kitchen you never knew you needed.” It’s a staple across Aussie campsites for a reason.
2. Non-Stick Cookware (That Won’t Slide Around)
Your everyday pots and pans won’t cut it. Caravan cookware needs to be light, space-saving, and safe for use on small gas burners. Stackable, non-stick sets with detachable handles are perfect.
👉 We recommend: SENSARTE 17-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set with Removable Handles
This set came highly recommended to us by a client who’s been full-timing for over a year—and we now use it ourselves. The detachable handles and nesting design make it a dream for tight kitchen drawers. We’ve cooked everything from stir-fry to pancakes in these, and the non-stick coating still holds up brilliantly.
3. Collapsible Kitchenware
Every inch of space counts. Collapsible colanders, bowls, and even dish racks can save you heaps of room and are super handy when storage is tight.
👉 We recommend: Comfify Collapsible Silicone Colander Set
These were recommended to us by a fellow traveller we met in SA—they raved about how well they held up to regular use. We grabbed a set and totally agree. They collapse flat, are super sturdy, and we’ve used them for everything from rinsing veggies to draining pasta. A simple item that saves stacks of space.
4. Secure Storage Containers
You don’t want your cereal, flour, or coffee ending up all over the van after a bumpy road. Airtight containers keep food fresh and spills at bay.
👉 We recommend: Vtopmart Airtight Food Storage Container Set (15 pcs)
We originally saw this set in a client’s van kitchen and were instantly impressed with how tidy and organised everything looked. Since switching to these ourselves, we haven’t had a single flour explosion! They stack neatly and the airtight seal keeps food fresher for longer—even when temps climb.
5. Quality Knives and Utensils
Leave the flimsy picnic knives behind. A compact knife roll or magnetic strip can keep your essentials handy. Include a peeler, tongs, spatula, scissors, and a can opener.
👉 We recommend: Ssumght 20-Piece Camping Silverware Set
One of our favourite clients tipped us off to this one after we complimented their neatly organised camp kitchen. We’ve used it ever since. It includes everything you need in one tidy roll, and the quality is better than some home kitchen gear we’ve seen. It’s been a great all-in-one solution for us on the road.
6. 12V Travel Kettle or Coffee Maker
Morning brew? Non-negotiable. A 12V kettle or compact coffee machine ensures you’re never without a cuppa—even if you’re off-grid.
👉 We recommend: 12V Car Kettle Water Boiler (750ml)
We first came across this kettle through a travelling couple who swore it was a game changer on long driving days. We picked one up and haven’t looked back. It plugs into the 12V socket and gives you boiling water while you’re driving—perfect for tea, coffee, or even quick noodles at a roadside stop.
7. Fridge Organisers
Keeping your caravan fridge organised isn’t just about neatness—it’s about avoiding food waste and leaks. Fridge bins or baskets help stop items from sliding around and make it easier to grab what you need.
👉 We recommend: Feshory 10-Pack Stackable Fridge Organiser Bins
We saw these in a friend’s van and were instantly sold. They keep everything in its place—even over corrugated roads—and make fridge clean-ups so much easier. Now we recommend them to every new vanner who asks about kitchen setup.
8. Water Filter Jug or Tap System
If you don’t have an inline water filter already, a bench-top water jug with a built-in filter is a great addition. It helps improve taste and removes nasties—especially important in rural areas.
👉 We recommend: BRITA Marella Water Filter Jug (2.4L)
We’ve carried this filter jug since our early days on the road. But it’s also been a favourite with many of our clients who want better-tasting water without the plumbing hassle. Fits perfectly in most caravan fridges and gives you clean drinking water on demand.
9. Fire Extinguisher & Fire Blanket
Safety first. Having these in your cooking area is a must. Quick access could save your van—and your trip.
👉 We recommend:
• Fire Box Fire Extinguisher
• DAWNTREES Emergency Fire Blanket
We’ve always believed these are non-negotiables—but we’ve had more than a few experienced travellers tell us the same. When multiple people who’ve been on the road longer than us insist on packing these every trip, we listen. They’re simple, affordable, and offer the kind of peace of mind you can’t put a price on.
10. Cleaning Essentials Kit
Think compact, not cluttered. A small tub with detergent, dish cloths, scrubbers, and a microfibre towel covers all your basics. Don’t forget eco-friendly products if you’re camping near waterways.
👉 We recommend: Collapsible Bucket (also used as a dish tub)
This one came recommended by a friend who uses it for everything—washing dishes, rinsing sandy feet, even as a laundry tub in a pinch. It folds flat, holds up well, and is surprisingly sturdy for how light it is.
The perfect caravan kitchen isn’t about having all the gear—it’s about having the right gear. Everything on this list has been part of our own setup or comes from people we trust—fellow travellers, clients, and long-time vanlifers.
If you’re starting from scratch or just want to upgrade a few essentials, these picks will save you space, time, and a fair bit of stress.
👉 Got questions or want help choosing gear that works for your van? Reach out to us here—we’re always happy to share what’s worked for us and others on the road.
