Having the right cooking equipment can make caravan trips more enjoyable. Unlike appliances for a home kitchen, caravan cooking equipment needs to be compact, versatile, and suited to smaller cooking and storage spaces.
The cooking equipment you need will depend on the way you travel. A compact cooktop and a few pans may be enough for weekend trips, but if you tend to go on longer journeys, you will likely need an oven, grill, refrigerator, and a complete set of kitchen supplies.
In this blog, we’ll explore the different caravan cooking equipment options available for caravanning, including gas cooktops, ovens, grills, portable stoves and electric appliances. We’ll also explain whether a gas kitchen oven can go in a caravan, as well as key considerations for choosing, installing, and maintaining your cooking equipment.
Types of Caravan Cooking Equipment
The best setup is one that matches your caravanning style. Before choosing your equipment, think about how many people you normally cook for and the meals you like to prepare.
Gas Cooktops and Stoves
Gas cooktops and stoves are a popular choice for caravans in Australia because they do not rely on a mains electricity connection. Most are designed to operate on LPG and are available in different sizes to suit the available bench space.
A two-burner cooktop is often a practical choice for smaller caravans. Three- and four-burner models offer more room to prepare several parts of a meal at once, although they require more installation and bench space.
Gas Ovens and Grills
Gas ovens and grill units offer more cooking options than a basic cooktop, allowing you to bake, roast and reheat food. An integrated grill can also be used for toast, vegetables, meat and other quick meals.
If kitchen space is limited, a combined oven and grill is a practical choice. Instead of installing separate appliances, you can have both cooking functions in one compact unit. For instance, the Thetford Duplex MK3 Oven and Grill Combination Unit offers a compact form factor designed for caravan kitchens, with a 36-litre oven capacity, an integrated grill, and a stainless-steel interior that is easy to wipe clean after cooking. Combination oven and grill installations are an excellent option for smaller kitchens where storage and bench space are limited.
Portable Stoves
A portable stove can be handy when you prefer to cook outside or want a backup cooking option while travelling. These stoves are lightweight and simple to use, although replacing fuel over time can create ongoing costs.
Portable LPG stoves and similar outdoor gas appliances must only be used outside in a well-ventilated, open area. They should never be operated inside a caravan, even with a window or door open, as they can produce carbon monoxide that may build up to dangerous levels in enclosed spaces.
Electric and 12V Appliances
Electric appliances can be convenient when your caravan is connected to mains power. Depending on the available electrical capacity, you may be able to use equipment such as a kettle, toaster, microwave or induction cooktop.
A 12V system is still common in many caravans and is often used to power appliances such as compressor fridges and other onboard accessories. However, some modern and high-end caravans use higher-voltage systems, such as 24V, 36V or 48V. Appliances that create heat generally draw much more power than lighting, fans or refrigeration.
Can a Gas Kitchen Oven Go in a Caravan?
You may be wondering, “Can a gas kitchen oven go in a caravan?” The answer depends on the kind of gas oven. If you’re referring to a gas oven designed for caravan use, then the answer is yes. A gas oven can be installed in a caravan, provided it is suitable for that application and the installation meets the relevant requirements.
On the other hand, if you’re referring to a standard household gas oven, the answer is no: these should not be placed in a caravan. Domestic ovens may be too large or heavy, may require a different gas supply, and may not be approved by the manufacturer for use in a caravan.
Installation, replacement or alteration of a caravan gas appliance should be completed and certified by a licensed gas fitter. Caravan LPG installations in Australia are covered by AS/NZS 5601.2, although the exact licensing, inspection and certification process may vary between states and territories.
What to Check Before Buying Caravan Cooking Equipment
Available Space
Measure the available space carefully, including its height, width and depth. You should also allow for any clearance, ventilation openings and access needed for servicing or connecting the appliance.
Do not assume that a replacement oven or cooktop will fit because it appears similar to a model you have. Even small differences in cutout dimensions can affect the installation.
Power and Fuel Supply
Choose appliances that suit the power sources already available in your caravan. Gas appliances require a compliant LPG system, while mains-powered appliances depend on access to a suitable electrical connection.
For off-grid caravan travel, calculate how much electricity each appliance uses instead of relying only on its voltage. This will give you a clearer idea of whether your battery and charging system can handle the additional load.
Appliance Weight
Every appliance contributes to the caravan’s overall weight. Check each appliance’s weight and keep your caravan’s payload capacity in mind, especially when adding an oven, large refrigerator or several heavy pieces of cookware.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Caravan kitchens are easier to manage when appliances have removable parts, accessible burners and smooth interior surfaces. Equipment that can be wiped down quickly is useful on longer trips where access to water and cleaning supplies may be limited.
Caring for Caravan Cooking Appliances
Clean cooktops, grills and oven interiors after use so grease and food residue do not accumulate. Once the appliance has cooled, wipe it with products recommended by the manufacturer and avoid abrasive cleaners that may damage stainless steel, enamel or other surfaces.
Inspect accessible hoses, fittings and electrical wires for visible wear, corrosion or damage before a trip. Do not dismantle gas fittings or attempt to repair a suspected leak yourself. If you smell gas, turn off the supply when it is safe to do so, ventilate the area, avoid flames and electrical switches, and arrange an inspection by a licensed gas fitter.
Permanent vents, flues and ventilation openings should remain clear at all times. These features are essential for safe appliance operation and should not be covered, blocked, or used for storage
Key Takeaway
Choosing the right caravan cooking equipment means finding a setup that suits your available space, power options, and how you plan to use it.
A high-quality, caravan-rated gas oven and grill can fulfil many of the same uses as conventional home ovens in a fraction of the space. With the right appliance, professional installation and regular care, you can bake, roast, grill and prepare a diverse range of meals wherever your next trip takes you.
