Best Van Life Kitchen Setup UK 2026 Guide
A well-designed campervan kitchen transforms meal times from stressful to enjoyable. Here's how to create a kitchen that works in a small space.
Layout Options
Side Kitchen
The most popular layout — runs along one wall of the van:
- Worktop space for prep
- Sink and stove integrated
- Storage below and above
- Easy to access while cooking
Rear Kitchen
Kitchen unit across the back of the van:
- More counter space
- Can open back doors for outdoor cooking feel
- Good for larger vans
- Less living space
Compact Galley
Narrow kitchen along one side:
- Works in small vans
- Everything within arm's reach
- Can feel cramped with two people
Essential Equipment
Cooking
- Stove: Two-burner gas (Campingaz Bistro) or single burner
- Pan set: One saucepan (2L), one frying pan
- Kettle: Stovetop (saves electric) or 12v
- Oven: Some vans have mini ovens — worth the space if you bake
Storage
- Magnetic spice rack: Saves counter space
- Collapsible containers: Fold flat when not in use
- Hanging organisers: Use wall space
- Under-counter bins: Pull-out waste and recycling
Cleaning
- Collapsible sink: Doubles as prep area
- Biodegradable washing-up liquid
- Microfibre cloths: Quick-drying
- Drying rack: Fits over sink
Worktop Materials
Solid Wood
- Beautiful, warm feel
- Needs sealing against moisture
- Can be sanded and refinished
- Heavy
Laminate
- Cheap, lightweight
- Easy to clean
- Can look budget
- Durable
Bamboo
- Sustainable, attractive
- Naturally antibacterial
- Moderate weight
- Good value
Tips for Small Spaces
- Multi-use items: Chopping board that covers sink
- Fold-down surfaces: Extra prep space when needed
- Magnetic knife strip: Safer than a block, saves space
- Wall-mounted utensils: Keep counter clear
- Collapsible everything: Bowls, colanders, cups
Food Storage Solutions
Fridge
A 12v fridge is worth the investment:
- Dometic CDF-18: Compact, reliable (~£350)
- Indel B: Good budget option (~£250)
- Keep on lowest setting to save power
Pantry
- Use stackable containers for dry goods
- Label everything
- Keep frequently used items accessible
- Vacuum-seal bulk purchases
Budget Kitchen Setup
Under £100
- Camping stove: £25
- One pan and one frying pan: £20
- Basic utensils: £15
- Collapsible wash bowl: £10
- Storage containers: £20
- Total: £90
Under £300
- Two-burner stove: £50
- Quality pan set: £40
- Complete utensil set: £30
- Storage solutions: £50
- Small cool box: £30
- Total: £200
Under £500
- Gas stove with grill: £100
- Quality cookware: £60
- Complete kitchen kit: £50
- 12v fridge: £200
- Total: £410
UK-Specific Tips
- Farm shops: Best quality, seasonal produce
- Morrisons Market Street: Good value fresh food
- Aldi/Lidl: Cheapest for basics
- Asian supermarkets: Great for spices and rice
The best van kitchen is one you actually use. Start simple and add equipment as you discover what you need.
