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Essential Vanlife Christmas gifts

Vanlife Eats
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Essential Vanlife Christmas gifts

Wondering what gift to get a vanlifer in your life this Christmas? We’ve got you covered with this list of essential vanlife Christmas gifts. No need to worry about saving the gift receipt for any of these Christmas goodies. All the gifts on this list are sure to make any vanlifer happy this Christmas and are absolute vanlife essentials.

We have included options for all budgets, and are things that we love to use in our own van so can fully recommend them to you.

This article does contain affiliate links. Vanlife Eats is a hobby of ours and using these affiliate links helps to cover the running costs of our website with no extra charge to you. Thanks in advance for your support.

Christmas vanlife

Essential Vanlife Christmas Gifts for under £20

These essential gifts are perfect for filling the stocking of a vanlifer you love this Christmas. If food heavily features in your vanlife travels then you are going to want to check these out.

Cooking Cosy

In these tough times with energy costs going up, you may just want this gift yourself! The Cooking Cosy is a little hat for your pans. It means you can bring your food to the boil then leave it to continue to cook under the cosy. This allows you to save on gas, so not only a vanlife essential but also in the home if you do vanlife part-time. You can buy your cooking cosy here.

Cooking cosy

Stove top toaster

If you follow our Instagram you may have seen us talking about this next little gadget. We had many people joining the dotty toast club! Toast is something we both love with a good cup of tea. It’s not the easiest thing to make in a van with no grill though. Then we discovered this little gem! An absolute bargain at around £6. This stove top toaster makes a great stocking filler and means you can toast bread on the hob. Super quick and super easy – get the butter at the ready. Buy yours here.

how to make toast on a stove top

Global WakeCup

You can’t have toast without a mug of tea! That’s why the next item on our essential vanlife Christmas gift list is a good mug. These Global WakeCup’s are our favourite mugs to use in the van. They come with lids making them easy to drink from while on the road, plus their pretty van friendly and you know they won’t break when travelling. We hang ours by the handles on hooks so they don’t even take up room in the cupboards. The stainless steel interior makes them super easy to clean. These are made from sustainable bamboo & biodegradable, making them eco-friendly. If that doesn’t give you a halo then this will. The company donate 10% of their profits to The Marine Conservation Society *ding – halo incoming* it’s the gift that keeps giving. You can get your hands on one for £20, or they offer a personalisation service for a little more. Find them here.

The Cornish Tea company cream tea

What do you get the person who has everything? Food of course. Not just any food though, only one of the finest things to come out of Cornwall. This cream tea sets from The Cornish Tea Company are perfect. They come through the post so you don’t even need to wrap them. To keep the Christmas harmony and avoid any arguments, don’t ask whether cream or jam is first…

These boxes are already a bargain at £20, but last time we checked our exclusive discount to get 15% off still worked, just enter VANLIFEEATS2022 at checkout. Even more of a bargain, but seriously.. cream or jam first? Answer here.

Cornish tea company cream tea

Yellow lids – Stretchy lids & straws

If your looking for stocking fillers that are good for the environment and your pocket, then look no further. These stretchy lids from Yellow Lids are fab, they are perfect for vanlife, and helping reduce food waste. They mean you can cover cans, or bowls of leftovers etc with these spill proof lids. This company realise it is unrealistic to completely stop single plastic use, so they have teamed with ReSea Project and have committed to remove plastic from rivers & oceans with every purchase. They also sell these fab straws which are great for avoiding plastic straws, or worse… the paper ones that disintegrate in your mouth! With them being under £10 each they are definite vanlife essentials!

Yellow lid stretchy lids
Yellow Lids straws

Essential Vanlife Christmas Gifts for under £35

These gifts are a little bit more expensive so great for a present a little bigger than a stocking filler. They are still under £35 though, so good for those of us with a budget in mind.

Camping Soul Food cookbook

If you have tried all the recipes on here, then this cookbook could be just the vanlife essential for you this Christmas. We love this cookbook, it has such a unique feature. Each recipe has a QR code so you can enjoy the accompanying playlist while you cook a delicious vanlife meal! You can buy it right here!

Camping soul food cook book

Ridgemonkey sandwich toaster

The ridgemonkey is something we use regularly in our van. When we first bought one (as we thought every van kitchen seemed to have one!) we were surprised by how small it was. We bought the Compact XL sandwich toaster. Due to this we hardly used it for a long time. Then we discovered it’s true potential!! We use it so much now, we have made omelettes, hotpots, brownies and all sorts of delicious things in ours. A great present for a solo vanlifer as you can cook perfect portion sizes for one person. Coming in at around £27 it’s worth every penny. You can see all the details and buy here.

Ridgemonkey

Ridgemonkey cutlery set

If you wanted to add a little extra with your ridgemonkey gift then these cutlery sets are great! They come in individual sets so ideal for solo vanlife. The quality of them feels amazing, the fact they pack away into a little pouch makes them travel friendly too. You can take them along on walks, picnics and adventures. These are under £15 and you can get them here.

Zyliss Easy Pull

This next one is a definite favourite gadget of Mark’s. The Zyliss Easy Pull has been a game changer for us. It is a manual food chopper/slicer. I (Sophie) am terrible at chopping vegetables, they tend to fly everywhere. So this keeps everything contained nicely, stops the tears caused by onions and is powered by muscle power. If you fancy giving this to a vanlifer in your life, then click here.

Zyliss easy pull

Stove top Kettle

There’s not many better sounds in life than the whistle of a kettle. Our kettle is an absolute essential in our van kitchen. We couldn’t be without it or our morning cuppa. This 2.5l is the perfect size for us and fits on the hob perfectly. They come in lots of different colours but this one fits in with our van so well. You can grab one for a gift here.

Vanlife eats kitchen

Enamel serving tray

This was the vanlife gift we didn’t realise was an essential until we got one. It helps keep our kitchen clean, as we put peelings and food waste on it making it easier to put in the bin. Mark regularly uses it to make fresh pasta and keep flour explosions to a minimum. Plus you can actually use it as a serving tray. They can be completely personalised and are £25, get yours from Duncan Stewart gifts here.

Enamel tray

Essential vanlife gifts for under £75

If you are looking for a more extravagant gift, then look no further. These vanlife gifts are all under £75 but are something we use regularly in our van and 100% recommend them after putting them to the test!

Omnia Stove top oven

Coming up first is something we use in our van regularly. We tend to use it for baking cakes, bread, pies and have found it really useful. Although it isn’t something we use every day it is definitely something we recommend. The Omnia starter pack comes in at £66.99 which contains the Stove top oven as well as a silicone mould. We definitely suggest using the mould when making cakes in particular to ensure they don’t stick. You can purchase a starter pack here.

Omnia oven starter pack

Wonderbag

Next up on the list is a different kind of oven! The wonderbag is a thermal non-electric slow cooker. For those worried about increasing energy costs this may be a good Christmas gift. It can be used for houselife as well as vanlife. You use it by starting off the cooking process then placing the pan in the wonderbag. It needs to be a good thick pan that will hold the heat well. The oven keeps it warm and carries on the cooking process. We have made stews in ours and even some beef which was cooked to perfection. It can also be used to keep things cool, so is multipurpose. It is quite large so if space is limited in the van it may not be the best option. Or do what we do and use it for storage or as a cushion. You can see the different colours available here.

wonderbag slow cooking

FlavorStone Pan

This pan is a great vanlife essential, even if it’s not a Christmas gift. This is a multi-purpose pan which makes it great for vanlife. You can fry, deep fry and even steam in it. It has a removable handle for storage too. It is a definite essential in our van kitchen. For £70 it reduces the need for lots of pans in the van, which take up space & money. You can find it here.

Gifts to blow the budget! (but they’re worth it)

These gifts are budget busters, but we can guarantee they are ALL worth it. You can always treat yourself this Christmas.

best vegan burger jackfruit bbq

Winnerwell woodburner stove

Woodburner stoves may not seem the most compatible gift for vanlife – but they are. Not only do they keep you warm sitting outside the van of an evening, you can cook on them too, and they look pretty impressive. Starting from £249 you can add whichever kit and accessories you want onto that. We have the Woodlander large Stove, we love it. It always draws lots of attention & comments whenever we have it set up. If you use code VANLIFEEATS at checkout you get 10% off!! Check them out here.

Winnerwell woodburner stove

Vanlife Eats Big Picnic tickets

This is a gift for yourself as well as others! Tickets to the Vanlife Eats Big Picnic 2023! Each year just gets better & better. Tickets are £69 per adult, with a wide variety of unique demonstrations and workshops it really is not to be missed. If you can’t make the whweekend then worry not, this year there are day tickets! You can buy tickets right here, we’ll see you there!

Vanlife Eats Big PIcnic

Cobb bbq

If you love a bbq, then you will love taking a Cobb on the road with you! We have even cooked a whole chicken on ours, and it was cooked to absolute perfection. Priced around £160, it means you can have a bbq wherever you are. The amazing design means the bottom doesn’t get hot so you can safely have it on camping tables! Get yours here!

Chicken on a cobb

Savernake Knives

Any good chef knows how important a good knife is. We were lucky enough to collaborate with the amazing Savernake Knives! If you enter this secret part of the website then you can save 10% off our exclusive design. You just need to enter the password vanlifeknife to access the collection. The knives start at £152 with our discount and they will sharpen them every year for free and have a lifetime guarantee, so definitely an investment!

vanife knife

Thanks for looking through our list of essential vanlife gifts, we hope you have found something for the vanlifer in your life. Plus make the most of the exclusive discount codes. If you want to share the festive cheer and buy us a gift, we would love if you could buy us a coffee to help support the running costs of our website.

We wish you a Merry Christmas, and a happy, healthy & prosperous New Year.

Sophie & Mark

Creamy pepper sauce with mushrooms

Forest Food Stories
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2
Creamy pepper sauce with mushrooms

I like to serve this creamy pepper sauce with mushrooms over a freshly roasted piece of beef. However, the sauce itself is vegetarian. You can put it over pretty much anything. In fact it’s so tasty you may want to even eat it on it’s own! You can find my other recipes here.

Creamy Pepper Sauce

Creamy pepper sauce with mushrooms

@forestfoodstories
Vegetarian
This goes well with with a meaty dish The key to getting the most “pepperiness” from your peppercorn sauce is to toast the pepper gently with the mushrooms and garlic before adding the cream. Fresh thyme, bay and a squeeze of lemon add all the right flavours and you’re done.
5 from 1 vote
Family friendly – Open fire – Stove top meal
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Dips / Sauces, Side Dish
Servings 2
Diet Vegetarian

Equipment

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp Butter
  • 2 Garlic cloves finely chopped
  • Mushrooms
  • 2 tbsp black pepper fresh cracked
  • 1 Bay leaf
  • 2 Sprigs fresh thyme
  • 2 cup Whipping/heavy cream
  • 1/2 lemon juice only
  • Salt to taste

Instructions
 

  • Melt the butter in a frying pan then add the mushrooms and saute until soft.
  • Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds before adding the pepper and herbs.
  • Gently toast the pepper until fragrant then pour in the cream.
  • Season with lemon juice and salt and allow to simmer gently for 10-15 minutes until the sauce has reduced and thickened to your preference.
  • I serve this with meat, so roast a piece of meat of your choice, I prefer beef. Serve.

Notes

Don’t let that lemon rind go to waste once juiced. Use it to clean your stove top, add to water for some flavour or even clean tea / coffee pots.

Nutrition

Calories: 938kcalCarbohydrates: 14gProtein: 8gFat: 98gSaturated Fat: 62gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 25gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 299mgSodium: 157mgPotassium: 365mgFiber: 2gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 3938IUVitamin C: 18mgCalcium: 204mgIron: 1mg
Keyword autumn, fall recipe, marinara sauce, meatsauce, mushroom, outdoor cooking, stove top, vegetarian
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

RidgeMonkey Connect Sandwich Toaster XL – Our Kitchen Essential

Vanlife Eats
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RidgeMonkey Connect Sandwich Toaster XL – Our Kitchen Essential

At Vanlife Eats, we’re passionate about making campervan cooking practical, fun, and incredibly tasty. One kitchen essential we genuinely couldn’t live without is the RidgeMonkey Connect Sandwich Toaster XL. This trusty pan turns every meal into a delicious adventure—whether you’re parked by the seaside or hidden deep in the woods. We’re genuinely excited to share why we love this pan so much!

Why the RidgeMonkey Sandwich Toaster XL is a Campervan Must-Have

Built Tough for Vanlife Adventures

The RidgeMonkey Sandwich Toaster XL features a robust, granite-style non-stick coating that’s impressively durable. It’s designed to handle bumps, scrapes, and off-the-beaten-track park-ups with ease, consistently performing brilliantly meal after meal. Cooking and cleaning couldn’t be simpler, making it your reliable cooking companion on the road.

Amazingly Versatile—More Than Just Toasties!

Yes, it makes incredible sandwiches and toasties—but the RidgeMonkey XL’s ingenious detachable hinge transforms it effortlessly into two separate pans. You can whip up fluffy omelettes, perfectly golden pancakes, or a hearty full English breakfast. We’ve even successfully baked pies, cakes, and brownies—thanks to the secure seal, it creates an oven-like effect when closed tightly. This pan genuinely expands your culinary possibilities.

Space-Saving Detachable Handles

Living in a campervan means every inch of space counts. Thankfully, the RidgeMonkey features detachable cool-touch handles, allowing it to neatly stow away in compact spaces. A quick tip: always remove and pack the handles inside the pan during transit to avoid accidental breakage.

The Perfect Size for Two—or More!

While standard sizes suit solo campers, we’ve found the XL version is ideal for couples. If you’re looking to feed a family or use the pan as your main cooking device, the RidgeMonkey XXL offers greater depth and cooking space, easily catering to four hungry adventurers.

Ridgemonkey fritatta

RidgeMonkey XL – Induction Edition

Induction cooking is increasingly popular in modern campervans, so RidgeMonkey cleverly introduced the Connect Sandwich Toaster XL Induction Edition. This upgraded model has all the brilliant features of the original, with added compatibility for induction hobs. It’s perfect if you’re upgrading your campervan kitchen and looking for reliable, induction-friendly cookware.

More RidgeMonkey Gear Campervan Foodies Will Love

Aside from the Sandwich Toaster XL, RidgeMonkey has other fantastic outdoor cooking gear we highly recommend:

  • Grilla BBQ: Compact, sturdy, and perfect for grilling your campsite favourites.
  • Quad Connect Stove: Provides excellent cooking stability in any outdoor environment.
  • Connect Deep Pan: Deeper design lets you simulate an oven—we’ve even cooked an entire roast chicken in ours!
  • Vault C-Smart Power Packs: Essential high-capacity power banks to keep your electronics charged when exploring off-grid.
  • DLX Plate and Bowls: Practically unbreakable, sleek, and comfortable to eat from—even after a few accidental tumbles!

RidgeMonkey is genuinely dominating the outdoor cooking market with its innovative range of products, including coolboxes, mugs, and utensils, making campervan cooking easier and more enjoyable than ever. Checkout these products

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the RidgeMonkey Sandwich Toaster XL induction-compatible?

The standard XL model isn’t suitable for induction hobs, but RidgeMonkey specifically offers the XL Induction Edition, designed perfectly for induction cooktops.

What dishes can I make in the RidgeMonkey Sandwich Toaster XL?

The possibilities are endless—omelettes, pancakes, quesadillas, pies, naan breads, full English breakfasts, cakes, brownies, and more! Check out our favourite Vanlife Eats recipes specifically designed for sandwich toasters on our recipe page.

What’s the best way to clean my RidgeMonkey Toaster XL?

Thanks to the granite-style coating, cleaning is quick and easy. Let the pan cool, then simply wipe clean with mild soap and a soft sponge. Avoid using abrasive pads or harsh cleaning agents.

Are the RidgeMonkey handles durable?

Yes! They’re sturdy and safe, with cool-touch technology. Just ensure they’re removed and stored inside the pan when travelling to avoid accidental damage.

The RidgeMonkey Connect Sandwich Toaster XL (including the Induction Edition) has truly enhanced our Vanlife Eats adventures, making campervan cooking easier, more versatile, and delightfully delicious. It’s a game-changing investment for any campervan kitchen.

Explore more mouthwatering and easy campervan recipes on our Vanlife Eats Recipes page.

Vanlife & Outdoor Cooking Enjoyment, Etiquette, and Essentials

Vanlife Eats
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Vanlife & Outdoor Cooking Enjoyment, Etiquette, and Essentials

With Vanlife there’s something uniquely special about parking up in a beautiful, wild spot, setting up my Cobb grill for outdoor cooking, and diving into the delicious challenge of creating a meal inspired by the local produce and surroundings. I just love visiting a local farm shop and cooking with produce that is unique to the area. Finding a great parkup with a beautiful view, unfolding my pullout table, setting up my Cobb and cooking with ingredients from the local farm shop, this is my happy place.

Vanlife Eatw outdoor vanlife cooking

Vanlife Outdoor Cooking With Local Inspiration

Whenever I arrive at a scenic parkup, my first thought is usually, “What’s unique to this place?” Local markets, farm shops, or even foraging can open up a world of fresh ingredients and flavours that elevate the outdoor cooking experience. There’s nothing quite like preparing a dish infused with the character and authenticity of that region.

How can I safely forage or use local produce?

Always ensure you’re fully knowledgeable about local plants and fungi. When in doubt, seek guidance from local experts or guidebooks. For farm shops and markets, chat with locals about seasonal specialties.

outdoor cooking from a campervan

Setting Up Outdoor Cooking Equipment

I love using the Cobb because it’s compact, efficient, and incredibly versatile. However, whatever your cooking gear, you’ll find things taste better with a view. Your equipment should be organised in case you need to pack away to move along. Obviously you’ve parked up somewhere safe and legal but you will find many local councils do not allow outdoor cooking. I like to use my pullout table which technically means the cooking equipment is attached to the van.

What makes a good Vanlife outdoor cooking setup?

Choose compact, reliable gear like portable grills or stoves, durable cookware, and utensils that are easy to clean and pack away. Your stove should always be elevated off the ground to prevent scortching the ground.

Omnia outdoor cooking

Vanlife Outdoor Cooking Etiquette & Enjoyment

Vanlife wild parkups are all about harmony and serenity with nature, local communities, and fellow campers. Keeping noise levels low, being discreet, and leaving your site pristine ensures not only your enjoyment but also preserves the experience for others.

Enjoy the moment and breathe in the fresh air, savour the sizzle of your meal cooking, and soak up the stunning views.

Your cooking fuel should be smoke free to avoid environmental impacts as well drawing attention to you.

Some music playing from within the van that doesn’t bother anyone adds to the atmsophere. I’ll stress the importance of not bothering anyone as you’ll stand out like a sore thumb if you are there blasting heavy metal with smoke pouring out into the sky!

cooking by the side of a lake the vanlife way.

What’s the best way to keep a low profile when cooking outdoors?

Cook during reasonable hours, avoid loud music or excessive smoke, and maintain a clean and tidy area to blend into your surroundings.

Essential Rules and Safety Considerations

While the romance of Vanlife outdoor cooking is undeniable, adhering to local regulations and safety measures is so critical!

  • Check local fire restrictions: Areas prone to wildfires may prohibit open flames or charcoal grills. The New Forest is an example of this!
  • Check if barbeques are allowed: Many councils ban the use of using a barbeque in public places. Check for signs and make sure you adhere to the rules.
  • Always extinguish fires thoroughly: Douse fires completely and confirm all embers are cold before leaving. Dispose of the embers in suitable place, taking them away with you if necessary.
  • Food Waste Disposal: Dispose of food waste in designated waste bins, particularly in areas with wildlife, and take all of your waste away with you if there is no designated dispoal areas.
vanlife kitchen for outdoor cooking

How to do Outdoor Cooking The Vanlife Way

As a full time vanlifer and a passionate cook I like to think I’m perfect to answer this question.

  • Find a Parkup: Use apps such as park for night and switch on the filter for “Surrounded By Nature”. Alternatively Google Maps is incredibly useful to explore the best views as well as checking to see if your van will fit in the parking area.
  • Find Some Local Produce / Inspiration: Plan your meal by taking inspiration from the location you are travelling. Check for local farm shops or local foodie places of interest. Our interactive Foodie Map is a great place to find foodie hotpsots in the area.
  • Find a Recipe: I always like to preplan by jotting down my recipe or looking up a recipe so that I am fully equipped once the Cobb is fired up. Theres nothing more annoying that realising you are out of Worcestershire sauce for your hotpot! Obviously you know this but here at Vanlifeeats.com we have some great van friendly recipes.
  • Check the Rules: Make sure there are no signs stating you can not cook.
  • Keep the Setup Minimal and Organised: You never know when you may need to drive off so keep your setup minimal and organised.
  • Cook, relax, soak up the views and savour every chew!
  • Leave it Better: Clear away everything, leaving no rubish and no trace. Go the extra mile and follow the ethics of the Leave It Better community!
vanlife best views

The Joy of Cooking With a View

The enjoyment of cooking with a view is next level adventure for vanlife. If you travel alone, the serinty can detox your mind and fill you with the happiest vibes. As a couple you will find these moments hard to beat! So, next time you’re parked up in a wild spot, let yourself be inspired by your surroundings, respect the local environment, and most importantly—enjoy every moment.

Here’s to many delicious adventures in the great outdoors!

Follow us on social media to follow our culinary adventures.

Everything you need to know about the Cobb BBQ

Vanlife Eats
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Everything you need to know about the Cobb BBQ

Cobb BBQ outdoor cooking is a whole different level of delicious, fuss-free, adventure-friendly grilling, roasting, and baking. Bringing the oven feature into mix is a total game changer! For the first time we’ve been able to cook over gas even when it is windy!

We’ve put the Cobb Gas and Cobb Charcoal models through their paces—from wild camping to van-side feasts—and honestly, we’re in love. This little beauty is compact, cool to the touch (you never know when you get asked to move on), ridiculously versatile, and comes in a handy carry case. It’s our go-to for festivals, road trips, and those “let’s cook something fancy in the middle of nowhere” moments.

But is it better than the CADAC range or other trending portable cookers? We think so. And here’s why…

Review of the Cobb BBQ

What Makes the Cobb BBQ So Good?

If you’ve never met a Cobb before, let’s introduce you. Imagine a portable, smokeless, and fuel-efficient outdoor oven that can grill, bake, roast, and fry—without burning your fingers when you move it. Yep, it stays cool on the outside.

Cobb BBQ Highlights:

✅ Gas & Charcoal Models – Plug into your camper’s gas outlet or go old-school with coals.
✅ Compact & Lightweight – Easy to store in a van. The carry case is awesome!
✅ Multi-Cooking System – Roast a whole chicken, sear a steak, bake bread, or fry an egg—all in one.
✅ Stay-Cool Exterior – No burnt hands or melted table surfaces.
✅ Fuel-Efficient – Uses minimal gas or just a handful of charcoal.
✅ Easy to Clean – Non-stick surfaces make washing up bearable (or at least not rage-inducing).
✅ Protected Flame – Windy outside? No problem! The flame is protected by its casing.

We’ve used both the Cobb Gas and Cobb Charcoal, depending on the adventure. The gas model is perfect when we’re hooked up to our van’s gas outlet, while the charcoal Cobb comes along when we’re off-grid. Both are absolute workhorses.

We are oftne parked up in a scenic area with our pull out table down and the Cobb simmering away. This is our happy place! We have been asked to move on before too and as the exterior of the Cobb remain cool at all times it was easy to pick up the Cobb and pack away quickly.

Cobb BBQ outdoor cooking
CADAC Outdoor cooking

Cobb vs. CADAC – Let’s compare

The CADAC range is often seen as Cobb’s biggest rival in the portable BBQ world. So, lets compare the CADAC with the Cobb.

FeatureCobb BBQ (Gas & Charcoal)CADAC Range
PortabilitySuper compact, lightweight, comes with a carry caseBulkier, some models quite heavy
Fuel OptionsGas & charcoal options availableMostly gas
Heat DistributionEven and efficientGood but can have hotspots
Cooking OptionsOven, grill, roast, bake, fryPrimarily a gas BBQ/grill
Exterior CoolnessStays cool for easy movingCan get hot on the outside
Fuel EfficiencyVery fuel-efficientUses more gas
CleaningNon-stick, easy to cleanCan be trickier to clean

Why We Prefer the Cobb

The CADAC is a solid choice, but it’s more of a traditional BBQ setup—great for grilling but not quite as versatile as the Cobb. With the Cobb, we can roast a whole chicken, bake a loaf of bread, and sear a steak. It also wins on portability, which is crucial when space in the van is as limited and precious.

What can you cook on the Cobb

We don’t just talk about it, we cook on the Cobb a lot. At festivals, road trips, and impromptu beach cook-ups, you’ll always spot us firing up the Cobb for a cooking demo at events.

Some of Our Favourite Cobb Creations:

🔥 Whole Roast Chicken – The Cobb makes chicken so golden and juicy with crispy skin.
🔥 Sourdough Bread – Yes, you can bake in in the Cobb!
🔥 Smoky BBQ Ribs – Low and slow on the Cobb.
🔥 Pizzas – Crispy base, gooey top, and no need for a full-size oven.
🔥 Breakfast – Eggs, bacon, tomatoes, and toast—all on one plate.

Food just tastes better on the Cobb. The heat is evenly distributed, and the enclosed design makes outdoor cooking anywhere.

Is the Cobb Worth Buying?

100%. If you want a compact, versatile, and portable cooking system that does more than just grill burgers, the Cobb is the one to get. It’s our go-to outdoor oven for a reason.

Who Should Buy a Cobb?

✅ Vanlifers – Small, portable, and gas-compatible = a dream for tiny kitchens.
✅ Wild Campers – The charcoal version is perfect for off-grid cooking.
✅ BBQ Enthusiasts – Love cooking with different techniques? The Cobb does it all.
✅ Festival-Goers – Easy to carry, quick to set up, and a total conversation starter.

Who Might Prefer CADAC?

❌ If you only want a traditional gas BBQ and don’t need to bake or roast, CADAC might suit you better.
❌ If you don’t mind bulkier gear and have loads of storage space.

At the end of the day, the Cobb wins on versatility, portability, and ease of use. it’s an outdoor oven, roaster, smoker, and all-in-one cooking system that makes food genuinely delicious.

So, if you see us at a festival, you already know what we’ll be cooking on.

Want to grab a Cobb? Check out their range at www.cobb-bbq.co.uk. Use the code VanlifeEats15 to get a huge discount!

Got a Cobb already? What’s your go-to Cobb meal? Share your recipe here at Vanlife Eats 🔥

cobb bbq review.
Cooking outdoors with Cobb BBQ Oven Grill

The Omnia Stovetop Oven – How to Bake, Roast, and Cook Without a Built-in Oven

Vanlife Eats
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The Omnia Stovetop Oven – How to Bake, Roast, and Cook Without a Built-in Oven

For many, the idea of living or travelling in a campervan brings up one major concern—how do you cook properly without a built-in oven? When I first started vanlife, the thought of never being able to bake fresh bread, roast potatoes, or make homemade pizza was almost enough to put me off.

But then I discovered the Omnia stovetop oven. This simple yet brilliantly designed piece of equipment transformed my tiny kitchen into a fully functional baking setup—with just a gas stove.

In this article, I’ll cover everything you need to know about the Omnia, including:
✅ How it works and what makes it unique
✅ What you can cook with it
✅ How to avoid common cooking mistakes
✅ Answers to all the most common questions

What is the Omnia Stovetop Oven?

The Omnia stovetop oven is a non-electric, portable oven that sits on top of a gas burner or ceramic stovetop and uses heat distribution to mimic the effect of a conventional oven.

How Does the Omnia Work?

The Omnia is designed in three parts:

  1. Stainless Steel Base – Directs heat from the burner upward, creating an oven-like environment.
  2. Aluminium Baking Pan – A circular pan with a hole in the middle, allowing heat to distribute evenly around the food.
  3. Domed Lid – Traps heat, just like a traditional oven.

When placed over a flame or heat source, the heat rises through the hole in the centre, circulates under the lid, and cooks food evenly from all sides—without needing a built-in oven.

✅ What stoves does the Omnia work on?

  • Works perfectly on: Gas stoves, portable gas burners, and ceramic hobs.
  • Not recommended for: Standard induction or electric coil stoves, as they don’t provide enough direct heat.

What Can You Cook in the Omnia?

The Omnia is incredibly versatile—if you can bake it in a conventional oven, chances are you can bake it in the Omnia.

CategoryExamples
Baked GoodsFresh bread, muffins, cakes, scones
Pasta DishesBaked mac & cheese, lasagna
Roasted DishesPotatoes, vegetables, chicken thighs
Pies & PastriesQuiche, fruit pies, puff pastry dishes
Gratins & CasserolesPotato gratin, vegetable bakes

✅ Can I bake in the Omnia?
Yes! It’s designed specifically for baking on a stovetop, making it perfect for bread, cakes, and even pizza.

✅ Can I roast meat and vegetables in the Omnia?
Yes—roasted chicken, potatoes, and vegetables come out just as crispy and golden as they would in a traditional oven.

✅ Can I use the Omnia for cooking pasta dishes?
Absolutely! Baked mac and cheese or lasagna cook evenly inside the Omnia, with a nice crispy top layer.

How to Get the Best Results with the Omnia

To make the most of your Omnia oven, follow these key cooking tips:

1. Use the Right Heat Source

  • Gas burners provide the best heat control.
  • Ceramic hobs work well but take longer to heat up.
  • Induction stoves require an adapter plate to work with the Omnia.

2. Control the Heat for Even Cooking

  • Preheat the Omnia for 2-3 minutes before adding food.
  • Always cook on low to medium heat to avoid burning the base of your food.

✅ How do I stop food from burning in the Omnia?

  • Keep the burner on low to medium heat—too high, and the bottom will burn. Low and slow is the key to perfect stovetop baking.

3. Use the Right Accessories

To make cooking and cleanup easier, consider these Omnia accessories:

  • Silicone Baking Liner – Prevents food from sticking and makes cleaning easy.
  • Baking Rack – Raises food slightly to allow more air circulation.
  • Muffin Ring – Perfect for baking smaller portions or cupcakes.

✅ Is the Omnia dishwasher safe?
No—the aluminium pan and lid should be hand-washed to protect their surface. The stainless steel base should be dried immediately to prevent discoloration. Who has a dishwasher in their van? I want to feature how you’ve done this!

Common Questions About the Omnia Stovetop Oven

Can the Omnia oven replace a full-size oven?

Yes and no. While it doesn’t work exactly like a traditional oven, it produces oven-like results for baking and roasting on a stovetop. It’s perfect for vanlife, boating, or small-space cooking.

Can I cook frozen food in the Omnia?

Yes! You can bake frozen meals, reheat leftovers, and cook frozen pies or pastries just like in a regular oven. Cooking time may be slightly longer.

Can I use parchment paper in the Omnia?

Yes—lining the baking pan with parchment paper can help with cleanup and prevent food from sticking.

Does the Omnia come in different sizes?

Yes, the Omnia is available in two sizes, the standard has a capacity of 2 litres—large enough to cook for 2 people and the Maxi Pan has a capacity of 3 litres for larger family cooking.

Can I use the Omnia inside my campervan?

Yes! However, ensure proper ventilation when using a gas stove to prevent fumes from building up.

Can I use the Omnia outside my campervan?

Yes! The Omnia stovetop oven works perfectly on any gas based outdoor cooking stove.

How do I clean the Omnia after cooking?

  • Wash with warm, soapy water—avoid abrasive scrubbing.
  • Soak in warm water if food is stuck to the bottom.
  • Never put it in the dishwasher.

Is the Omnia Worth It?

For anyone who wants to bake, roast, or cook without a built-in oven, the Omnia stovetop oven is an essential tool.

✅ It allows for real oven-style cooking on a simple gas stove.
✅ It’s lightweight, portable, and perfect for campervan cooking.
✅ With the right techniques, it produces amazing results—without needing electricity.

If you’re looking for a simple, reliable, and effective way to cook in a campervan, the Omnia is one of the best investments you can make. We’ve been using ours for 7 years and it has become an essential and loved peice of equipment in our van.

Frequently Asked Questions Recap

🔹 What stoves does the Omnia work on? Gas and ceramic. Not ideal for induction and electric coil stoves.
🔹 Can you bake, roast, and cook full meals in the Omnia? Yes! It works for bread, pizza, roast potatoes, casseroles, and more.
🔹 How do you stop food from burning? Use low heat, a heat diffuser, and preheat for a few minutes.
🔹 Is the Omnia easy to clean? Yes, but it must be hand-washed—no dishwasher.
🔹 Is it worth buying? If you want oven-like cooking on a stovetop, absolutely.

Check out some awesome Omnia oven recipes here.

Gas or Induction Hob? What should you fit in your campervan?

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Gas or Induction Hob? What should you fit in your campervan?

We hear this all the time gas or induction?. What do we recommend you should fit in your campervan? Let’s put this great debate in another relatable way… jam first or cream first?

With lithium batteries becoming more affordable, the rise of fully electric powered campervans has made induction hobs more popular than ever. But is ditching gas really the way forward?

Let’s break it down properly—pros, cons, costs, and share our real-life experiences of cooking in a campervan.

Induction Hobs

Induction hobs are popping up in new builds everywhere, and there is good reason for it.

Why is Induction Great in a Campervan?

✔ No open flame = No risk of burning your van down while flipping pancakes.
✔ Fast cooking = Instant heat, instant off, this helps bringing pans to temperature quickly and efficiently.
✔ Safer for small spaces = No gas leaks, no carbon monoxide worries!
✔ No LPG stress abroad = Gas refills can be challenging when traveling abroad.

Sounds like induction is a no brainer right? But here’s the reality check…

The Downsides of Induction:

❌ Power-hungry – Even with a big lithium battery, an induction hob can eat through your power supply pretty quickly!
❌ Sun-dependent – Winter vanlifers, (and British vanlifers) take note: When there is no sun, your solar panels don’t charge as well, and suddenly power becomes very precious. Boiling your kettle for a hot cuppa on a winter morning may be off the menu!
❌ Battery stress – Even a chunky 400Ah lithium battery (like mine) feels the strain when you rely solely on electric cooking.

Let’s Talk Power Consumption

Induction hobs are energy-efficient compared to traditional electric stoves, but that doesn’t exactly mean they’re camper-friendly.

ApplianceAverage Power UsageHow Long Will a 400Ah Battery Last?
Induction Hob1,500W – 2,000W2-3 hours of high heat cooking
4-5 hours of low heat cooking
Low Watt Electric Kettle650W14-15 boils
Hairdryer1,800WSay goodbye to your battery after 30 mins
Laptop (Charging)60WAll-day power, no stress

Let me be realistic here, you will not be cooking on full power for 3 hours. You are likely to be cooking for 20 minutes on a high heat or 1 hour on a very low heat to simmer. And unless you are rapunzel will you really blow dry your hair for 30 minutes?

So 3 meals cooked on the hob, 3 boils on the kettle and one 10 minute blow dry will take your 400ah battery down by about 50%. With some charge from a good drive (with the correct B2B installed and some solar) you should recoup most of that back. In the winter less so.

For off-grid campers, induction is amazing in summer but a struggle in winter, unless you have a serious solar + battery setup.

Gas Hobs

Now, let’s talk about gas baby—the OG campervan cooking method.

Why Gas is Still Used in a Campervan:

✔ No electricity needed – Cook whenever, wherever, even when your battery power is low.
✔ Efficient fuel use – A single 11kg gas bottle lasts 6-12 months, depending on how much you cook.
✔ Works in all weather – No worrying about solar panels, cloudy days, or running out of battery in the middle of a cook.

The Downsides of Gas Cooking:

❌ Gas refills can be a challenge – Especially in different countries where LPG connectors vary.
❌ Needs proper ventilation – Gas hobs release carbon monoxide, so knowledge of proper ventilation and a carbon monoxide alarm is non-negotiable.
❌ Safety concerns – Gas leaks are rare but possible. You’ll need a gas-safe engineer to install or check everything correctly.

The Vanlife Eats Choice of Carbon Monoxide / Smoke Alarm

Google Nest Protect – Dual Smoke Alarm And Carbon Monoxide Detector (Battery)

The Cost of Running a Gas Hob

A typical 11kg FloGas bottle costs around £36 and lasts 6-12 months for a full-time vanlifer. Even if you’re cooking every day, gas is one of the cheapest energy sources for a campervan.

There are some hidden costs of gas cooking

  • Gas-safe engineer certification: £50-£100
  • Carbon monoxide alarm: £20-£30

Gas vs. Induction – Which One’s Right for Your Campervan?

Let’s put it all together in a quick pros and cons table:

FeatureInduction HobGas Hob
Power SourceRequires a juicy lithium battery & inverterUses a refillable gas bottle
SafetyNo carbon monoxide, no flamesNeeds proper ventilation, risk of leaks
Cooking SpeedVery fast, instant heatSlower but consistent
Weather ImpactNeeds solar power or hook-upWorks in any conditions
Setup CostHigh (battery + inverter)Moderate (gas install + alarm)
Running CostCan drain battery fast£36 per 6-12 months

So, which is better?

Go for induction if…

  • You only cook when on electrical hookup (EHU).
  • You have a big battery (400Ah+) and lots of solar panels.
  • You like instant heat and want a flame-free cooking setup.
  • You travel abroad and want to avoid LPG refilling issues.

Stick with gas if…

  • You prefer a reliable, all-weather cooking system.
  • You don’t want to stress about power limits in winter.
  • You like the traditional feel of cooking with a flame.

What’s My Setup?

Even with a massive 400Ah battery, I still prefer cooking with gas. Here is why?

  • I am rarely on an electrical hookup as I travel full-time
  • I love the way gas cooks food—it feels more natural to me and I feel I have better control.
  • It’s way more energy-efficient for full-time vanlife.
  • Refilling my 11kg gas bottle costs me about £36 every 6-8 months, which is nothing compared to the stress of power management.
  • I live in the UK and winter vanlife can write off solar panel charging.

Yes, induction is cool, modern, and stress-free. But when I’m off-grid in the middle of nowhere, the last thing I want is to ration my battery just so I can make a cup of tea.

Final Thoughts

So cream first of jam first? The truth is that both options work and give the same results but it’s how you want to go about it that is the question. What do you prefer? What makes you feel more comfortable? What can you afford? What do you need?

For the campervan weekend warrior you are very likely to be jumping from campsite to campsite so why not go hassle free and use a hookup to power your induction hob. If you go off grid a lot then you most probably want to stick with the classic gas hob.

Have a good think about your needs and requirements and if you have any questions why not ask in our campervan cooking group on Facebook.

Whichever you choose, happy cooking and tasty travels! 🚐

Pancake recipes for pancake day!

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Pancake recipes for pancake day!

Shrove tuesday can only mean one thing – pancakes! Or vancakes may be a better name for them! Here are 5 pancake recipes perfect for pancake day, they are van friendly and super tasty. We have vegan pancakes, protein pancakes, fluffy pancakes, traditional pancakes and even something a little bit different. So have pancakes your way this pancake day.

Be sure to share your pancake or vancake photos in our group on social media or tag us for us to share.

Why pancakes?

Pancakes are a great food at any time of the year, they are easy to make, don’t require too many ingredients and go with many different flavours and toppings. Pancakes are traditionally eaten on Shrove Tuesday across many parts of the World. They are cooked and eaten as a way to use up rich ingredients before the fasting period of Lent – That definitely includes Nutella 😉 In some countries Shrove Tuesday is known as Mardi Gras, which translates to Fat Tuesday. So make the most of it and get those pancakes loaded high.

1. Fluffy vegan pancakes

Let’s kick things off with these INCREDIBLE fluffy pancakes. They are the things dreams are made of, little mouthfuls of cloudy heaven. When you imagine a stack of pancakes drizzled in syrup and fruit, these are the bad boys you are thinking of. One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s actually vegan, so is also great for those who are dairy free. The only decision left to make, is what to add on top….

Fluffy Vegan Vancakes

2. Protein pancakes

For those of you who aren’t convinced about the whole ‘Fat Tuesday’ thing, don’t worry. We still have you covered. These protein pancakes mean you can continue the healthy new year routine into Lent and beyond, and enjoy pancake day guilt free.

BANANA & OAT PROTEIN PANCAKES

3. Traditional pancakes

For those of you that like to stick to tradition, these one cup pancakes are amazing! The recipe is from no other than Jamie Oliver, and these super easy pancakes are easy to measure ingredients for. That is such a great thing with vanlife as many don’t have scales, so measuring using cups is great.

https://www.jamieoliver.com/recipes/fruit/one-cup-pancakes

4. Oaty pancakes

These oaty pancakes replace traditional flour with blitzed oats. This adds a lovely flavour, and as the author states ‘ you haven’t lived til you’ve tried them’. These little discs of tastiness are vegan too! Why not try these for pancake day

Oat Pancakes

5. Msemen

Now for something a little different this pancake day. Are you sick of the same old pancakes, year after year? Looking for something different and exciting, look no further. These Moroccan pancakes are traditionally served with a butter, honey and lemon syrup. They taste incredible with savoury toppings too. We have to warn you though – these msemen are addictive!

Moroccan Pancakes – Msemen

Bonus pancakes

Psssst… still here? Well we couldn’t resist adding these amazing looking vancakes. The options are endless, and that’s the great thing about pancakes is you can top them with lots of deliciousness. This website had some great ideas for vancakes with lots of different flavurs and toppings.

Vancakes – Quick, easy, delicious road trip recipes

Until next time, have a fab pancake day!

Vanlife Eats 2025 Tour Dates

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Vanlife Eats 2025 Tour Dates

Get ready for an incredible year of events! We’re taking Vanlife Eats on the road, and we’ll be cooking up a storm at some of the biggest motorhome, campervan, and food festivals in the UK. Whether you’re passionate about vanlife, love cooking in small spaces, or just want to see what’s possible with minimal equipment, these demos will inspire you to take your campervan cooking to the next level!

We’ll be appearing at some of the best shows in the UK, where you can watch live cooking demos, get hands-on tips for making amazing food in tiny kitchens, and—if you’re a Vanlife Eats VIP member—enjoy exclusive samples at every event! Plus, the cookbook will be available for purchase, so you can take home the recipes and inspiration.

Here’s where you can find us in 2025

Upcoming Cooking Demos

📍 18th-21st Feb – Caravan & Motorhome Show | NEC, Birmingham
📍 14th-15th Mar – The Yorkshire Motorhome & Campervan Show | Yorkshire Events Centre, Harrogate
📍 24th / 26th / 28th / 31st Mar – The Ideal Home Show | Olympia, London
📍 3rd-5th May – Campervan Campout | South of England Showground, Haywards Heath
📍 10th-11th May – The Great British Food Festival | Arley Hall, Cheshire
📍 16th-18th May – The Southern Motorhome & Campervan Show | Newbury Showground, Newbury
📍 30th May-1st Jun – Vanlife Festival | West Midlands Showground, Shrewsbury
📍 14th-15th Jun – The Great British Food Festival | Holdenby House, Northampton
📍 21st-22nd Jun – The Great British Food Festival | Dinton Pastures, Berkshire
📍 18th-20th Jul – The Norfolk Motorhome & Campervan Show | Norfolk Showground, Norfolk
📍 2nd Aug – The East Dorset 40th Celebration Rally | Warren Park Farm, Alderholt
📍 15th-17th Aug – The Western Motorhome & Campervan Show | The Three Counties Showground, Malvern
📍 22nd-24th Aug – Vanlife Eats Festival | Dummer Down Farm, Basingstoke
📍 5th-7th Sept – The South West Motorhome & Campervan Show | Bath and West Showground, Shepton Mallet
📍 19th-21st Sept – The Motorhome & Campervan Show | Lincolnshire Showground, Lincoln
📍 Oct (TBC) – Caravan & Motorhome Show | NEC, Birmingham

Why Come to a Demo?

🔥 See first-hand how to cook new and exciting meals in a campervan using limited space and equipment.
🔪 Learn practical hacks to maximise your tiny kitchen and create incredible dishes.
🍽️ Vanlife Eats VIP members get exclusive samples at every event!
📖 Grab a copy of our cookbook, available at all demos.
👋 Connect with fellow food lovers, vanlifers, and adventure seekers!

Book Your Spot!

Want to catch a demo? Some events require tickets, so make sure to book ahead. Click on the links above to grab yours.

Got questions? Drop me a message, and I’ll see you on the road! 🚐🍽️

The Best Campervan Air Fryer – A Review of the Our Place Wonder Oven

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The Best Campervan Air Fryer – A Review of the Our Place Wonder Oven

Ok so we did it! We finally found a campervan air fryer thats worthy of space in the Vanlife Eats tiny kitchen!

Cooking in a campervan is all about finding the perfect balance between functionality and space. After years of testing the usual brands, I finally found one that ticks all the boxes: the Our Place Wonder Oven. This little beauty had me buzzing with excitement the moment I saw it. In this review, I’ll share my hands-on experience with it, why it’s perfect for campervan living, and a few surprises I encountered along the way.

First Impressions – A Beautiful, Thoughtful Design

I’ll admit it — I’m a sucker for good branding. The Wonder Oven immediately caught my eye with its pastel colours: soft blue, baby pink, and eggshell. It immediately felt like it was made to match the Nordic beach style of our campervan kitchen. Every detail, from the colour-matched grill pan to the modern branding, feels thoughtful and well-made.

Unboxing it was a exciting! Like Christmas returning! Inside, I found a recipe booklet, a handy user manual, and accessories that are as functional as they are stylish. It’s rare for a gadget to tick both form and function, but this one did it effortlessly. My expectations were officially sky-high.

Installation – A Practical Fit for Van Life

Getting the Wonder Oven set up was straightforward, but it did require some rearranging in my campervan kitchen. With the dimensions clearly listed on the website, I was able to plan ahead and make some room. Clearing out random items (bye, containers, unused gadgets and silly little pots) actually felt liberating, and I was surprised how neatly the oven fit into its new spot. Once it was in place, it looked like it belonged there and matched the decor of the van.

campervan air fyer fitted into a tiny kitchen

Features – More Than Just an Air Fryer

The Wonder Oven is packed with features that make it a versatile addition to any campervan kitchen. Here’s what it can do:

  • Air frying
  • Baking
  • Grilling
  • Roasting
  • Reheating
  • Toasting

This little oven has completely changed my oppinion about having an oven and having an air fryer in the van. This one is compact, reflective interior ensures even cooking, and it’s energy-efficient enough to fit seamlessly into my off-grid lifestyle.

The Testing – Performance and Power Consumption

Test 1 – Air Fryer Recipes

The first recipe I tried was my own creation of cheese and tomato chicken popcorn. It turned out perfectly — crispy, juicy, and absolutely addictive. The cooking process took just 18 minutes and used around 6-7% of my 400Ah battery, which is incredibly efficient, especially during the colder months when power conservation is key.

campervan air fryer cheese and tomato chicken popcorn

Test 2 – The Pizza Challenge

Next up, the mighty pizza test. Getting great pizza in the campervan without an oven has always been a challenge. Skillet pizzas are “ok” but I really have missed baked pizzas. My outdoor Ooni oven works great, but inside? Ha! That would almost send the van up in flames! The Wonder Oven’s bake mode produced a pizza with a crispy base, bubbling cheese, and a perfectly airy crust in just 10 minutes. It used about 11% of my battery, which is a trade-off I’m happy to make for such excellent results.

campervan air fyer pizza test

Compatibility with Campervan Power Setups

If you’re wondering whether the Wonder Oven will work with your campervan’s power system, here’s what I’m working with:

With a power draw of 1,400W, the oven is manageable, even during the winter months when solar input is limited. My setup handled it with ease, and I expect it will be even more efficient in summer when the sun is more cooperative.

What Makes the Wonder Oven Special

After testing numerous campervan air fryers over the years, I can confidently say the Wonder Oven stands out. It’s a real game-changer for vanlife. Here’s what I love about it:

  1. Versatility: From baking to grilling, it handles a variety of cooking methods.
  2. Compact Design: It’s perfectly suited for small spaces without feeling cramped.
  3. Energy Efficiency: It doesn’t drain my battery, even during longer cooks.
  4. Stylish Aesthetic: Who says practical can’t also be beautiful?

Final Verdict – Is the Wonder Oven Worth It?

Absolutely. The Our Place Wonder Oven has made cooking in my campervan easier, more enjoyable, and way more delicious. Its manageable power consumption, versatile functionality, and sleek design make it a must-have for vanlifers who take their meals seriously.

If you’re on the hunt for a high-performing, space-saving oven or campervan air fryer, the Wonder Oven should be at the top of your list. Its awesome!

As for me, I’m already brainstorming my next recipes to test in it. Stay tuned — there’s plenty more to come!

Watch the Campervan Air Fryer video review here!

What’s your favourite vanlife cooking gadget? Let me know in the comments! For more tips, tricks, and recipes, follow along with Vanlife Eats.

Campervan Kitchen Essentials – This is What Vanlife Eats Use

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Campervan Kitchen Essentials – This is What Vanlife Eats Use

Here is the definitive list of Campervan Essentials that you will find in the Vanlife Eats campervan Kitchen.

Cooking in a campervan can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it comes with unique challenges—limited space, weight restrictions, and the need for durability. Since 2018, we’ve been living and cooking full-time in our van, and we’ve tried everything from lightweight camping store cookware to heavy-duty professional equipment. After spending countless hours (and pounds!) testing different gadgets and equipmet, we’ve found the perfect balance: lightweight, durable, and practical gear tailored for campervan kitchens.

Here’s our definitive list of campervan kitchen essentials that will elevate your vanlife culinary adventures and save you a ton of money!

campervan kitchen

Top Campervan Kitchen Essentials

Best outdoor cooking essentials

Why Choosing the Right Campervan Kitchen Essentials Matters

When we first started our campervan journey, we bought lightweight pots and pans from a camping store. It seemed like a great idea at first, but within weeks, they were tarnished, dented, and completely unusable. Frustrated, we tried heavy-duty professional equipment—but while it performed well, it was bulky, heavy, and impractical for a small campervan kitchen.

After years of trial and error, we found the middle ground: lightweight, durable, stackable, and space-efficient equipment that’s designed for frequent use.

Now, we’re sharing our curated list to save you time, money, and frustration. These tools make cooking in a campervan easier, more enjoyable, and produce better results.

Sophie-and-Mark-Vanlife-Eats

Support Vanlife Eats

Some of the links in this guide are affiliate links. Using these links won’t cost you anything extra, but they help support the running costs of our website. Thank you for your support—it allows us to keep creating helpful content like this!

Happy cooking, and may your campervan meals be as adventurous as your travels!

Share Your Favourite Vanlife Eats: Campervan Recipe Inspiration

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Share Your Favourite Vanlife Eats: Campervan Recipe Inspiration

Need some campervan recipe inspiration? Did you know you can join our amazing community of vanlife cooks? If you’ve ever tried to whip up a masterpiece in a tiny campervan kitchen only to realize that your only available tool is a spork, then you’ll fit right in with us. We’re Vanlife Eats, and our Facebook group is where the magic happens – well, it’s where the cooking (and the fun) happens. Join the group here: Vanlife Eats Group.

This group is all about celebrating our tasty triumphs and sharing the joy of cooking on the road. We want you to be part of the fun! Share your stories, recipes, and those amazing meals you’ve crafted while enjoying the freedom of vanlife. It’s all part of the adventure, and we’d love for you to join us!

And speaking of Instagram, if you want even more vanlife-inspired culinary goodness, come give us a follow on Instagram. It’s where we share the highlights – think perfect sunset dinners, gorgeous campfire stews, and that one time we managed to make paella on a single burner. Yeah, we know, we’re fancy like that.

We’re a bunch of regular vanlifers who love good food, good company, and the adventure of cooking on the road. Let’s keep it real, delicious, and always a bit messy – just the way vanlife should be.

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