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Cooking in the great outdoors

Camping kitchen essentials: what to pack

4 minutes read
The weekend is approaching, and your camping gear is ready. But have you considered your cooking provisions? While a camping stove, pot, pan, cups, and eating utensils are essential, there are a few more items that you shouldn't miss in your camping kitchen. Discover what they are and see what our Bergzeit editors include in their outdoor kitchens for a perfect camping experience.

Camping kitchen packing list

Camping kitchen…and other camp cooking gear

Camp kitchen – keep it clean!

  • Dishwashing liquid
  • Rinsing sponge
  • Washing-up brush
  • Washing up bowl/folding bowl
  • Tea towel
  • Paper towel
  • Garbage bag
  • Clothesline

Barbecue or outdoor grills

Camping food list 

  • Spices (salt, pepper, herbs, …)
  • Optional: backpacking food, energy bars
  • Long-life milk
  • Cereal or granola
  • Canned or dried foods: pasta, beans, lentils, rice, oats
  • Oil/vinegar
  • Bread, bread rolls, toast
  • Coffee, tea
  • Hard vegetables: carrots, onions, potatoes, sweet potato, kohlrabi, garlic
  • Hard fruits and nuts: apples,
  • Fermented foods: Sauerkraut, Kim chi

Create the Perfect Outdoor Camping Kitchen: Essential Guide

Planning the perfect outdoor kitchen is key to a successful camping trip. Whether you’re embarking on a weekend getaway, a lengthy trek, or a family holiday, having the right camping kitchen setup can enhance your experience. Here’s a detailed guide to help you create an ideal camping kitchen tailored to your needs and preferences.

Planning Your Camping Kitchen

Transportation: Consider how you will transport your camping kitchen. If you’re using a campervan, you have more space for a comprehensive setup. For backpacking or bikepacking adventures, opt for compact, lightweight items.

Minimalism: When trekking, focus on minimalism. Double up on utensils to save space and weight:

  • One deep plate for soups, breakfast, or salads.
  • One pocket knife instead of multiple knives.
  • One versatile pot for frying and boiling.
With a well-equipped camping box you can enjoy your outdoor adventure to the max.

With a well-equipped camping box you can enjoy your outdoor adventure to the max.


Camping Kitchen Box for Campervans

A well-organized camping kitchen box is invaluable for frequent campers using a campervan. Stefan and Bärbel from Bergzeit Magazine share their tips:

Do you use your camping kitchen for regular outings, day trips, and longer road trips? Then, a camping kitchen box is a hot tip for you. Stefan and Bärbel from Bergzeit Magazine Team explain the most important features of their boxes.  

Stefan’s Minimalist Camping Box:

“My family and I stick to essentials: three pots, plates, cereal bowls, mugs, cutlery, and basic spices. We always include a small storm lantern, Helinox Chair One, a field repair kit, a multitool, and an Ortlieb folding bowl. Additionally, I pack a small stove, a cartridge, and a coffee pot for quick trips.”

We also pack provisions for emergencies.

Provisions for emergencies: A look at Stefan's camping box

Provisions for emergencies: A look at Stefan’s camping box


Bärbel’s Must-Have Coffee Camping Box:

“Our camping box doubles as a picnic bag and includes everything from cooking spoons and cutting boards to coffee mugs. Essential items include a coffee grinder, vegetable peeler, grater, and chopping board. This setup remains in our VW van, ready for spontaneous getaways. A pro tip: always carry duct tape for quick fixes.”

Of course, camping is always about limiting yourself to the bare essentials. But a few kitchen gadgets are a must – such as good coffee.

 3 things that can never be left behind:  

  • Coffee grinder for fresh coffee, which keeps warm for a long time in beautiful thermal coffee mugs even on cold camping days.
  • Vegetable peeler and grater – essential!
  • We have forgotten the chopping board in the past and sorely missed it! If you’ve ever cut bread or vegetables on wobbly camping plates, you’ll know what I’m talking about!
Camping box and picnic bag in one: Bärbel always has everything with her when camping.

Camping box and picnic bag in one: Bärbel always has everything with her when camping.


Camping box and picnic bag in one: Bärbel always has everything with her when camping.

For Bärbel, a thermal coffee mug is a must-have for her camping kitchen.


More camping tips:

If you use your camping kitchen for regular trips by campervan or caravan, you can afford to pack a little more generously. For example, the luxury of a small recipe book gives your camping kitchen a home-away-from-home touch.

For campervan camping kitchens, a ready-packed box contains all the essentials except fresh food. This way, you won’t have to constantly think about whether the salt and pepper are in. Just a quick re-stock checklist before you roll away.

With a ready-packed camping kitchen box in the van, the most important utensils and spices are always at hand for cooking.

With a ready-packed camping kitchen box in the van, the most important utensils and spices are always at hand for cooking.


Pro Tips:

  • Always pack adhesive tape for emergency repairs.
  • Keep a recipe book for a home-away-from-home touch.

Camping Kitchen Checklist

  1. Fuel:

    • Ensure full gas cartridges and fuel reserves.
    • A windbreak for your stove is beneficial, especially in windy conditions.
  2. Cookware:

    • Opt for sturdy, versatile cookware suitable for open-fire cooking.
    • Consider packing a portable grill.
  3. Spices:

    • Bring a small selection of spices (salt, pepper, and a few basics) to enhance your meals.
  4. Respect Nature:

    • Always pack out your rubbish.
    • Be aware of fire safety regulations, especially in forested areas.
  5. Hydration:

    • Ensure ample drinking water or a means to purify water.
  6. Luxury Items:

    • A small espresso machine can be a delightful addition for coffee lovers.

Final Thoughts

A well-planned camping kitchen can significantly enhance your outdoor experience. By considering your transportation mode, focusing on minimalism, and packing essential items, you can enjoy delicious meals and a comfortable setup wherever your adventures take you. Always remember to respect nature and leave no trace to preserve the beauty of the outdoors for everyone.

Prepare your camping kitchen with these tips and enjoy a stress-free and enjoyable outdoor cooking experience!

 

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Bergzeit Journal - Your Blog for Mountain Sports & The Great Outdoors

Welcome to the Bergzeit Journal! Enjoy our product reviews, buyers' guides, care instructions, packing lists and general tips & tricks for the great outdoors. The Bergzeit Journal editorial team, together with many external authors and mountaineering experts, provide insightful articles on all important mountain and outdoor topics, as well as current industry and background knowledge.