How to Create the Perfect Camp Cook Setup

Camping is all about embracing the great outdoors, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice a delicious and well-prepared meal. With the right setup, you can create a camp kitchen that rivals your home kitchen, ensuring you and your campmates are well-fed and happy. In this blog, we’re going to share with you how to have the perfect camp cook setup.

Whatever you do - do not camp inside the tent of campervan awning.  If you're thinking about camping inside your tent then check our article on Is It OK to Cook in a Tent? - OLPRO (olproshop.com) . It is never okay to cook inside a tent or campervan awning.  Our camping experts have stated never cook in an campervan awning or a tent. The Camping and Caravanning Club have always run campaigns to ensure that people don't cook in their tents and OLPRO fully support the campaign including clear labels in all tents and awnings stating that they are not to be used for cooking inside.

How to Create the Perfect Camp Cook Setup

1. Plan Your Camp Kitchen Layout

The first step to a perfect camp cook setup is deciding on the layout. Whether using a campervan or setting up a kitchen tent, the key is keeping everything organised and easily accessible. Here’s how to arrange your space:

• Cooking Area : Designate a safe, flat area for cooking. Use a portable camping stove or grill. A windscreen can be useful to protect the flame and ensure consistent cooking.
• Prep Station : Set up a sturdy camping table as your prep station. This is where you’ll chop, mix, and prepare your ingredients. OLPRO’s  Bamboo Deluxe Camp Kitchen is a great addition here, providing a durable and eco-friendly surface for food prep.
• Cleaning Zone : Keep a separate area for washing up. A collapsible washing-up bowl, along with soap, makes cleaning up easy.

2. Equip Your kitchen with the right gear

Having the right tools is crucial for any successful meal. Here’s what you need:

• Plates, Bowls, and Cups : The key to eating out is having the right tableware. It’s important to be conscious of reducing the amount of broken crockery, which is why we recommend Melamine.
• Compact and portable utensils : Vanlife is all about reducing the amount of space you use, which is why you need compact and portable utensils like a  compact chopping board or an all-in-one condiment solution.
• Collapsible Furniture: If you’re setting up your kitchen, you want to ensure that you don’t have bulky furniture taking up space in your van. Items like  folding tables, and portable kitchens are essential.

3. Cooking Tips for the Outdoors

Cooking outdoors comes with its own set of challenges, but with a few tips, you can overcome them and enjoy delicious meals:

• Prep at Home : Save time and hassle by preparing some ingredients at home. Chop vegetables, marinate meats, or pre-cook grains like rice or quinoa.
• One-Pot Wonders : Simplify cooking with one-pot meals. These are easy to make, require minimal clean up, and are perfect for feeding a crowd. Think stews, pasta dishes, or stir-fries.
• Adjust for Altitude : If you’re camping at a high altitude, remember that water boils at a lower temperature, so cooking times may need to be adjusted.

5. Clean Up Efficiently

After enjoying your meal, it’s important to clean up properly to keep your campsite tidy and to protect the environment:

• Convenient Cleaning : Use collapsible washing-up bowls and drainers for a space-saving solution for on-the-go.
• Pack It Out : Follow the Leave No Trace principle by packing out all your trash, including food scraps, to keep wildlife safe and preserve the beauty of nature.

Creating the perfect camp cook setup is all about being prepared, organised, and equipped with the right tools. Whether you’re whipping up a quick breakfast or a gourmet campfire dinner, these products will ensure you cook in style and comfort on your next outdoor adventure.

Shop olproshop.com for all your camp cooking needs.

For a full guide on how to get the best from your campervan awning read our expert's guide: How to get the best from your Driveaway Awning - OLPRO (olproshop.com)

And for more on how to put up and take down a driveaway awning check our full expert guide to putting up and taking down a campervan awning : How to put up and take down a Campervan Awning - OLPRO (olproshop.com)