So, you’ve got a new RV and need to stock the kitchen with space-saving and must-have accessories. First, congratulations on your purchase. Now, what do you need for your kitchen? I’ve compiled a list of the top 10 must-have RV kitchen accessories through much trial and error.
- Frigidaire Countertop Ice Maker. There are several countertop ice makers available, and I’m sure they all work pretty much the same way. However, this particular make and model is the one that I use on every camping trip and at home. Because it’s portable, it can move from the RV to the house easily as needed. Typically I store it on the coach to not forget it. Using the ice maker is simple. Fill the water reservoir, close the lid, hit the power button, and select cube size, and 6 or 8 minutes later, you will have the first batch of cubes. Once the basket fills with ice, a light will come on to alert you to dump it into a container to put in the freezer or use immediately.
- Tip: I let the first couple of batches melt back into the reservoir as the unit is getting cooled off.
- Refrigerator Storage Bins can be a lifesaver for keeping things organized and from sliding around while traveling. I like this set as it includes a container for eggs with a hard plastic lid so you can easily stack things on top of it without worrying about breakage. This set also has a can dispenser perfect for sodas which take up less space than a traditional 12 pack of soda still in the cardboard carrier or stacked individually. Additional bins can be ordered and stack as needed. These bins also work great in the pantry, under the sink, or anywhere you need to keep things organized and accessible. Cleaning is simple; just wipe or wash as needed.
- Pantry Organizing Bins will allow you to maximize all the storage space and easily see what you have in each bin. This set of 14 comes in various sizes, which is nice to mix and match based on the size spaces you have. Additionally, they are easy to use, clean, and refill as needed. You may need to order multiple sets for larger families are extended trips. These containers also come in handy for use in the bathroom for cotton balls, Q-tips, and other items that need to stay dry and store easily.
- Cooking utensil sets are not all the same. Be very careful before you purchase a set to make sure it fits your camping needs. I love this set because it’s dual-purposes. I can use it in our RV kitchen, and my husband can use it on the grill. Rated for high heat, you won’t have to worry about anything melting when used for campfire or grill cooking. The variety of utensils in this set are enough for just about any need. A holder is included making it easy to keep on the counter and store easily in any drawer or cupboard while traveling.
- Sink sponge caddy is not something most people think about…until they have done dishes for the first time in their RV and wonder where they will store the wet sponge. This cady will keep things tidy and let the sponge air dry after use, minimizing germs and bacteria. Trust me. You will thank me later for including this in your setup purchase.
- Stackable and expandable shelf organizers will keep larger cupboards and shelves organized and give you more useable storage space. The shelf organizers make it easy to store dishes, canned goods, spices, and other items. These also work great for anything that doesn’t stack naturally, varies in height, or doesn’t have a solid surface top. You may need to order several sets depending on the size of your kitchen and how you are using them.
- Automatic Drink Dispenser will turn any bottle into an easy-to-use dispenser: no more spills, no more dripping. Don’t worry about lifting heavy bottles in and out of the fridge every time someone wants a drink. Instead, simply put this inside any bottle, tighten the lid and use the dispenser. The dispenser is a game-changer for juice, milk, and large bottles of water. For seniors with arthritis or inability to lift things easily or kids who are constantly spilling. Make life easier with this drink dispenser.
- Nesting Bowls with lids serve a dual purpose for serving food and storage in the fridge or pantry. I love this set as it comes in various colors and six different size bowls with lids. In addition, this set is easy to store as all the bowls nest inside of each other. Depending on the size of your family, two sets may come in handy. The bowls will also stack nicely in the fridge or freezer if you pre-make food to take on your trip. Plus, these bowls are also microwave safe, so you don’t have to transfer the contents to heat up.
- Nesting Bowls with a colander and measuring cups are a great space saver and multi-use while camping. This set includes two different size mixing bowls, a colander, a sifter, and measuring cups that all fit nicely inside each other, making storage a breeze. These bowls serve double-duty on my coach as I often use them for salad, side dishes, or chips. While these don’t have storage lids, if I need to store leftovers, I either put foil or cling wrap over the top or transfer them to one of the bowls mentioned in the entry above.
- Zero Water Filtered Pitcher helps eliminate single-use plastics like water bottles and takes up less space in the fridge or counter than bottles of water. I prefer this brand as it filters the water better. While you can read the product description from the link of how it does what it does, simply put, it makes excellent, clean water. We travel with our dog, and not knowing the water quality in an RV park can easily upset a pet’s digestive system. Most people don’t think about it, but different water sources can have a wide range of bacteria, metals, and other “ingredients” that people and animals are not used to and quickly upset their intestinal balance. Let’s face it, no one wants to get Montezuma’s Revenge on vacation, and you certainly don’t want your pet to either. So stay safe and always be able to make freshwater you and your pets can drink.
There are undoubtedly many more kitchen accessories that are worth considering for your new RV. This top 10 list is a great starting point and, from my personal experience, must-have items. Of course, don’t forget some of the basics items to stock the kitchen, such as
- Bottle/Wine opener – trust me, you need several of these for inside, outside, excursions, etc.
- Dishes
- Can opener
- Ice cream scoop
- Cookware (note: for an all-electric RV, you will need induction cookware)
- Tumblers – these Yeti tumblers come in a wide variety of colors. Everyone can pick their favorite and know which drink is theirs
- Cutting Board
Helpful tips:
- Make a list of things you regularly use at home, as you will likely use them while camping
- Check your kitchen at home for duplicates that you can move to the RV
Remember when you first get your RV, make a couple of short trips to start. Keep a notepad or your phone handy to jot down forgotten items. It will take some time and experience to get the setup that works best for you. But, no matter where you roam or what you may forget, you are likely not very far away from being able to get an Amazon delivery or find a pick-up locker.
Looking for things to cook on your next camping trip? Check out our Camping Cuisine series for inspiration and ideas, from easy-to-make appetizers to feeding larger groups.
Related Articles:
10 Cooking Not Required Appetizers
Best Foods to Cook Over a Campfire
15 Foods to Make Before Your Trip
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