Cooking is one of the best ways to save money and enjoy fresh, delicious food while living the van life. Here are some essential tips for maximizing your culinary experience in a tiny space.

Kitchen Essentials and Setup

A minimal, multi-purpose setup is key to efficient van cooking.

Essential Gear

Prioritize items that serve multiple functions and are easy to clean and store.

• Single-burner propane or butane stove: Small, powerful, and easy to refuel.
• One or two quality pots and pans: Choose sizes that fit your stove and are easy to nest.
• A sharp knife and cutting board: These are indispensable for meal prep.
• Collapsible wash basin: Essential for washing dishes and saving water.
• Silicone spatula, wooden spoon, and tongs: The basic tools needed for most cooking.

Organization and Storage

Use vertical and compact storage solutions to keep your kitchen area tidy.

• Keep your cooking fuel, such as propane, stored safely away from the living area.
• Utilize magnetic strips for knives and spice jars to save counter space.
• Install small shelves or nets above the cooking area for storing lightweight items like paper towels or tea.
• All cooking gear should have a designated, secure spot to prevent rattling while driving.

Meal Planning and Food Storage

Smart planning prevents food waste and reduces the frequency of grocery trips.

Keep it Simple

Complex recipes are difficult to execute in a small space. Focus on simple, one-pot or one-pan meals.

• Tacos and burritos: Versatile and use simple, long-lasting ingredients.
• Pasta dishes: Quick to cook and very filling.
• Stir-fries: A great way to use up fresh vegetables before they spoil.
• Soups and stews: Perfect for batch cooking and reheating.

Food Preservation

Managing refrigeration and dry storage effectively is critical in a van.

• Cooler or Fridge: Choose an efficient cooler or a high-quality, low-power-draw refrigerator. Keep it well-stocked with pre-portioned meals and frequently used perishable items.
• Produce Storage: Store most vegetables outside the fridge in a dark, cool, and ventilated spot. Items like potatoes, onions, garlic, and root vegetables last well at ambient temperatures.
• Dry Goods: Store rice, pasta, oats, and beans in airtight containers to protect them from moisture and pests.

Cooking Hacks and Water Management

These tips will make the cooking and clean-up process much smoother.

• Prep Ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients before you start cooking to minimize clutter and mess.
• Water-Saving Clean-up: Scrape plates and pans immediately after eating. Use a spray bottle with soapy water to clean up small messes instead of a full sink wash. Use the "two-basin" method for dishes: one with hot soapy water, one with rinse water.
• Ventilation: Always ensure good airflow when cooking to prevent moisture buildup and condensation inside the van.

Item	Tip for Vanlife
Fresh herbs	Grow a small herb garden in a window or use dried spices to save space
Trash	Use a resealable bag or a small container for trash and dispose of it responsibly at public bins
Leftovers	Always plan to eat leftovers for the next meal to avoid food waste
Pantry	Regularly check and rotate dry goods