Cooking outdoors is one of the best parts of van life. Fresh air, beautiful views, and the satisfaction of creating a meal in nature.
Outdoor Cooking Equipment
Campfire Cooking
- Fire pit: Portable, keeps fire contained
- Grill grate: Place over fire pit for direct grilling
- Dutch oven: Versatile, perfect for stews and bread
- Cast iron skillet: Indestructible, excellent heat retention
- Tripod: Hang pots over fire
Portable BBQ
- Weber Go-Anywhere: Compact, reliable (~£80)
- Cadac: Popular with campers, lightweight
- Disposable BBQ: For occasional use (dispose responsibly)
Gas Stove (Outdoor)
- Campingaz: Reliable, widely available fuel
- MSR Windburner: Excellent in wind
- Jetboil: Fast boiling for drinks and simple meals
Campfire Recipes
Campfire Stew (Serves 4)
- Brown stewing beef in Dutch oven
- Add onions, carrots, potatoes
- Pour in beef stock and tinned tomatoes
- Season with salt, pepper, and herbs
- Cook over coals for 2-3 hours
Campfire Bread
- Mix self-raising flour, salt, and water
- Knead into a dough
- Wrap around a clean stick or Dutch oven handle
- Cook over coals, turning regularly
Grilled Fish
- Season whole fish with lemon and herbs
- Place on grill grate over fire
- Cook 5-7 minutes each side
- Serve with fresh salad
Campfire Pizza
- Use pita bread as base
- Add tomato sauce, cheese, and toppings
- Place on grill until cheese melts
- Surprisingly good
Safety Considerations
Fire Safety
- Check local bylaws about open fires
- Never leave fire unattended
- Keep water or sand nearby to extinguish
- Don't light fires during dry periods
- Extinguish completely before sleeping or leaving
Food Safety
- Keep raw meat separate from cooked
- Cook meat thoroughly
- Don't leave food out in warm weather
- Clean surfaces after handling raw meat
UK Outdoor Cooking Locations
Campsites
- Most allow BBQs and campfires
- Some have designated fire areas
- Always check rules first
Beaches
- Some beaches allow BBQs in designated areas
- Check local council rules
- Don't light fires on sand dunes
Wild Camping (Scotland)
- Campfires allowed under right to roam
- Use established fire rings
- Don't cut live wood
The Outdoor Cooking Experience
Set Up
- Choose a sheltered spot away from wind
- Set up your cooking area before you're hungry
- Keep ingredients organised and accessible
- Have a "landing zone" for hot pots
Clean Up
- Clean as you go
- Use biodegradable soap
- Scatter grey water away from water sources
- Take all rubbish home
Enjoy the Process
- Cooking outdoors takes longer — embrace it
- Involve friends and family
- Experiment with new recipes
- Take photos of your creations against beautiful backdrops
Seasonal Considerations
Summer
- Longer days mean more cooking time
- insects can be an issue — use a mesh food cover
- Keep food in cool box
Autumn/Winter
- Cook earlier as it gets dark sooner
- Hot drinks and warming meals essential
- Fire provides warmth as well as cooking heat
Outdoor cooking transforms van life from camping to adventure. Every meal becomes an experience.
