Top 10 Motorhome Kitchen Appliances

A well-equipped kitchen makes all the difference in a motorhome, allowing you to cook delicious meals wherever you go. The right motorhome kitchen accessories can make cooking easier, more efficient, and more enjoyable. To help you maximise your space and cooking experience, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 motorhome kitchen appliances that you should consider adding to your wishlist. 

1. Coffee Maker 

For many motorhome owners, a morning coffee is, understandably, non-negotiable. While instant coffee will do in a pinch, a proper coffee maker is a great addition to your motorhome appliances if you enjoy a fresh brew. Whether you prefer a traditional filter machine, an AeroPress, or a compact pod machine, there are plenty of space-saving options available. 

When choosing a coffee maker, consider how much space you have on your counter and how much power it will use. A manual coffee press like a cafetière or AeroPress requires no electricity, making it ideal for off-grid camping. If you prefer an electric machine, look for models that are tall and slim rather than wide and bulky, ensuring they fit neatly in your campervan kitchen accessories collection. 

 

2. Slow Cooker or Crock-Pot 

A slow cooker is perfect for motorhome life, allowing you to prepare delicious, home-cooked meals with minimal effort. Simply add your ingredients in the morning, set the cooker to a low heat, and return to a fully cooked meal after a day of exploring. It’s a great way to make stews, soups, curries, and even some baked goods. 

Traditional Crock-Pots have ceramic inserts and heat from all sides, which helps to cook food evenly. Standard slow cookers often heat from the bottom, meaning you may need to stir your food more often to prevent sticking. If you have limited power in your motorhome, look for low-wattage slow cookers, as they won’t drain your battery or trip campsite electrics.  

3. Pressure Cooker or Instant Pot 

A pressure cooker is an excellent addition to your motorhome kitchen accessories because it drastically reduces cooking time. It uses steam pressure to cook food faster, making it ideal for energy-efficient meals when you’re on the go. Many models also have multiple cooking functions, such as steaming, sautéing, and slow cooking. 

An Instant Pot is a popular multi-cooker that combines the features of a pressure cooker, slow cooker, and rice cooker in one. It’s an excellent choice if you want an all-in-one appliance that saves space and simplifies cooking. Just keep in mind that some models require a steady power supply, so check your motorhome’s wattage limits before purchasing. 

4. Water Purifier 

Access to clean drinking water is essential when travelling in a motorhome. While most campsites have fresh water points, you may not always be near one, and bottled water takes up valuable storage space. A water purifier guarantees you have safe, great-tasting water wherever you go. 

There are many options to choose from, including under-sink filters, portable jug filters, and UV water purifiers that kill bacteria and viruses. Some water filtration systems can be connected directly to your motorhome’s water tank, providing purified water throughout your taps. If you travel off-grid often, a compact purifier bottle with a built-in filter can be a handy backup solution. 

5. Collapsible Bowls, Measuring Cups, and Colander 

Space-saving solutions are essential in a motorhome kitchen, and collapsible kitchenware is a game-changer. It doesn’t matter whether you need bowls, measuring cups, colanders, or food storage containers. Collapsible options make packing and organising much easier. 

These items are usually made from silicone, making them lightweight, durable, and easy to clean. A collapsible colander is especially useful for draining pasta, washing vegetables, or straining liquids, while nesting measuring cups help with accurate ingredient portions. Since they fold down flat when not in use, they won’t take up unnecessary room in your campervan cooking equipment collection.  

6. Microwave Oven 

A microwave, or what Gordon Ramsey likes to call “Chef Mike”, is a fantastic motorhome appliance for quick and easy meals. It can heat leftovers, defrost frozen food, and even cook simple dishes in minutes. If your motorhome doesn’t have a built-in microwave, a compact, low-wattage model is a great investment. 

Microwaves are especially useful when staying at campsites with electrical hookups, as they require mains power to operate. If you rely on battery power, you may need an inverter to run a microwave efficiently. Keep an eye out for models that fit standard dinner plates and have multiple power settings to avoid overloading your motorhome’s electrical system. 

7. Portable Ice Maker 

If you love cold drinks on warm summer days, a portable ice maker is a great addition to your campervan kitchen accessories. These handy machines make ice quickly, so you won’t have to rely on campsite freezers or store-bought ice bags. 

Some models are battery-powered, making them ideal for off-grid use, while others require mains power. Keep in mind that ice makers can be noisy and bulky, so make sure you have enough space and ventilation before buying one. If you have a small fridge-freezer, a portable ice maker can free up space by eliminating the need for ice trays. 

8. Electric Kettle 

A compact electric kettle is one of the simplest yet most useful motorhome kitchen accessories. It allows you to make tea, coffee, instant soup, or even boil water for pasta quickly and efficiently. If you’re staying on a campsite, a low-wattage kettle (1-2KW) is best to avoid tripping the power supply. 

If you prefer an off-grid option, consider a stovetop kettle that can be heated on a gas burner. Some motorhome-friendly kettles are collapsible, making them even easier to store when not in use. Whatever you choose, a reliable kettle is a must-have for any campervan kitchen setup. 

9. Blender 

A blender is a versatile appliance that lets you make smoothies, soups, sauces, and more delicious goodies. A compact personal blender is ideal for single servings, while a high-powered model can also double as a food processor. If you’re short on space, look for a tall and slim design rather than a wide base. 

Some blenders come with USB charging, so you can use them even when you’re off-grid. If you frequently prepare sauces or soups, a handheld immersion blender might be a more practical space-saving choice. No matter your preference, a blender is a great tool for adding variety to your motorhome cooking. 

10. Cast Iron Skillet 

A cast iron skillet is one of the most durable and useful pieces of cookware you can own. It can be used on a stove, in an oven, on a grill, or even over a campfire. The even heat distribution ensures your food cooks perfectly every time, making it solid for everything from frying to baking. 

Cast iron, of course, requires seasoning and proper care, but when maintained well, it can last a lifetime. The main downside is its weight and bulkiness, so you’ll need to plan where to store it. Despite this, many motorhome cooks swear by cast iron skillets for their ability to cook delicious, flavourful meals with minimal effort.  

Considerations Before You Buy 

Before filling your motorhome kitchen with gadgets, it’s important to think about what will actually work for your space and lifestyle. Limited storage, power restrictions, and practicality all play a role in choosing the right motorhome appliances. Below, we’ll break down the key factors to help you make the best choices for your setup. 

Size 

Space is one of the biggest challenges when equipping a motorhome kitchen. Unlike a house, where you can spread out your appliances, storage in a motorhome is limited and needs careful planning. Choosing compact, stackable, or collapsible appliances helps maximise space while keeping everything organised. 

When considering size, keep in mind: 

• Tall and slim appliances are better than wide ones, as they take up less counter and storage space. 

• Collapsible versions of kettles, colanders, and bowls save space when not in use. 

• Multi-functional appliances, like an Instant Pot, replace multiple gadgets and reduce clutter. 

• Built-in storage solutions, such as pull-out shelves, under-seat compartments, and hanging racks, keep your kitchen organised. 

• Appliances you rarely use should be avoided unless they have multiple uses or are extremely compact. 

Utility 

Before purchasing motorhome appliances, consider how often you will use them. Some gadgets may seem convenient, but if they only serve a single purpose, they can quickly become unnecessary clutter. A rice cooker, for example, is useful for regular rice eaters but takes up space if only used occasionally. 

To make sure your appliances are genuinely useful: 

• Match your appliance choices to your cooking habits. If you love one-pot meals, a slow cooker is great. If you prefer grilling, a tabletop BBQ is a better choice. 

• Choose multi-purpose gadgets. A blender that also works as a food processor is more valuable than a single-use smoothie maker. 

• Prioritise easy-to-clean appliances. Blenders, pressure cookers, and cast iron skillets all have different cleaning needs—pick options that suit your setup. 

Cost 

Equipping your motorhome kitchen can get expensive, so setting a budget helps prevent overspending. How should you go about creating that budget? Here’s our two cents: 

• Prioritise essential appliances first, like a kettle, stovetop, and coffee maker, before investing in extras. 

• Multi-use, high-quality appliances are worth spending a bit more on, as they replace multiple gadgets. 

• Consider second-hand purchases. Many campervan communities sell or swap kitchen accessories, offering good deals. 

Power and Energy Usage 

Motorhome kitchens rely on limited power sources, so it’s essential to choose appliances that work within your power setup. Most motorhomes have 12V, 24V, or mains (230V) power, and not all appliances are compatible with every type. 

To ensure your kitchen runs efficiently: 

• Know your power limits. Some appliances, like microwaves or air fryers, require an inverter to run properly. 

• Opt for low-wattage versions of electric kettles, toasters, and cookers to prevent power overload. 

• Consider gas-powered or USB-rechargeable appliances if you plan to spend time off-grid. 

• Use campsite power wisely. Even with a hookup, high-wattage appliances may trip the circuit, so stagger your usage. 

Gas vs. Electric Cooking 

Some campervan kitchen accessories run on gas, while others require electricity. Choosing the right option depends on your travel style and whether you stay at campsites or go off-grid. Some things you should know: 

• Gas-powered appliances (stoves, kettles, grills) are perfect for off-grid camping but require proper ventilation. 

• Electric cooking options (microwaves, induction hobs) heat quickly but require mains power or a powerful battery system. 

• Hybrid setups (gas stove + electric kettle) give you flexibility depending on your location and available power sources. 

Portability and Storage 

Motorhome kitchens need to be organised and clutter-free. Luckily, portable appliances can make cooking more convenient. In that light, you should: 

• Look for lightweight, compact appliances that can be stored easily when not in use. 

• Consider outdoor cooking options, like a tabletop grill or portable stove, to free up space inside. 

• Choose appliances with secure lids, lockable mechanisms, and anti-slip bases to prevent movement while driving. 

Durability and Build Quality 

Motorhome appliances need to withstand constant movement, vibrations, and compact storage. Unlike household appliances, they must be sturdy and travel-friendly. So, keep these tips in mind: 

• Choose shatterproof, lightweight materials, like stainless steel, BPA-free plastic, and silicone. 

• Ensure appliances have secure lids and lockable mechanisms to prevent spills. 

• Non-slip bases and suction cups help keep appliances stable on countertops while driving. 

Cleaning and Maintenance 

Motorhome kitchens don’t always have easy access to water. Therefore, keeping appliances clean should be simple and hassle-free. Try to: 

• Choose dishwasher-safe or easy-to-clean materials to avoid unnecessary mess. 

• Avoid gadgets with too many small parts, as they can be hard to clean and store. 

• Consider self-cleaning appliances, like certain blenders or food processors, to make washing up easier. 

Final Thoughts 

Equipping your motorhome kitchen with the right motorhome kitchen accessories makes cooking on the road easier, more efficient, and more enjoyable. By choosing space-saving, multi-functional, and energy-efficient appliances, you can create a kitchen that works for your needs without unnecessary clutter. Now that you know the top 10 appliances you should prioritise, happy shopping (and cooking)! 

Read more on camper equipment in our articles Do You Need Air Conditioning in Your Motorhome? and Internet Access From Your Motorhome!

FAQs 

Can you use an air fryer in a motorhome in the UK? 

Yes, but check your motorhome’s power capacity before using one. Air fryers can draw a lot of power, so a low-wattage model is best. If your motorhome has limited power, you may need to use it only at campsites with electrical hookups. 

Can you use a normal toaster in a motorhome? 

Yes, but it depends on your power source. A standard toaster works fine with a campsite hookup, but a low-wattage toaster is better to prevent power overload. Some people prefer stove top toasters for off-grid use. 

Will a smart TV work in a motorhome? 

Yes, as long as you have a stable power source. Many motorhome owners use a 12V smart TV, or an inverter for standard models. A mobile hotspot or satellite dish can help with streaming when on the road.