How to Build the Ultimate Overland Kitchen

Overlanding is a great way to explore remote landscapes. It blends off-road travel with camping into an adventure that provides memories for a lifetime. It’s not without some work, though! There are many steps to prepare for the trip: get your rig ready, pack, and so forth. All that effort is worth it when you get out in the great outdoors and experience the beauty of nature with your family and friends.

We can probably all agree that at the heart of any successful overland adventure is a functional and well-equipped overland kitchen. Whether you’re whipping up a gourmet meal under the stars or enjoying a quick snack between destinations, a thoughtfully designed kitchen can make all the difference for your trip.

So, that being the case, in this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to build the ultimate overland kitchen. From selecting the right gear to optimizing storage and functionality, this article will help you elevate your overland cooking game!

Key Considerations Before You Start

Before diving into the details, it’s crucial to evaluate your specific cooking needs for your trip. What’s more, you have to consider the constraints when planning your overland kitchen, such as how much storage space you have for food, water, cooking utensils, and the like. 

Your overland vehicle has limited storage space and weight capacity, so every item must earn its place. Opt for compact, lightweight gear that’s easy to pack and transport. Portable stoves, an easy-to-store cookware set, and stackable storage solutions (like the Front Runner Wolf Pack Pro shown above) are ideal choices.

Consider your cooking preferences, too. Are you content with simple meals, or do you enjoy creating elaborate dishes? Your style will dictate the type and amount of equipment you need.

Overlanding gear must withstand travel over rough terrain, unpredictable weather, and frequent use. That’s why we recommend gear that’s rugged and made with high-quality materials. For example, stainless steel cookware and heavy-duty plastic storage containers are excellent investments. 

Must-Have Components of an Overland Kitchen

Building a functional overland kitchen starts with assembling the right components. Now, as noted earlier, what you need for your overlanding kitchen depends on many different factors, not the least of which is how much space you have. However, here are a few types of items we think are critical for creating the ultimate overland kitchen…

•  Stove Options: Portable propane stoves are a staple for overlanding. A single-burner stove like the Safari Chef 30 shown above is lightweight and compact, while a dual-burner model offers more versatility for cooking multiple dishes at once.
•  Dutch Ovens and Skillets: Items like the Skottle grill are perfect for one-pot meals, baking, and frying. Cast iron skillets, though heavier, offer unmatched durability and heat distribution.
•  Compact Cookware: Invest in stackable pots and pans that save space. Many overland cookware sets include nesting options to further optimize storage.
•  Coffee Maker Options: For coffee lovers, portable solutions like the AeroPress, French press, or pour-over systems ensure your caffeine fix no matter where you are.

Food and Water Storage

Efficient storage ensures you have everything you need without wasting space. Here are some types of food and water storage you might consider adding to your kit:

• Coolers vs. Portable Fridges: Coolers like the Viking 75 quart model shown above are affordable and simple, but a portable fridge provides superior temperature control, keeping perishables fresh for longer. Check out our guide to choosing the best cooler or fridge for more insights.
• Dry Food Storage: Airtight containers are essential for organizing and preserving non-perishable items like rice, pasta, and snacks.
• Water Solutions: A steady water supply is crucial for cooking, cleaning, and hydration. Look for portable water containers with built-in spouts for easy dispensing. For extended trips, consider a water filtration system so you have clean water, even if clean water sources are sparse.

Utensils and Accessories

Small tools make a big difference in the functionality of your kitchen. Save space in your rig to include the following:

• Knives and Cutting Boards: Compact, foldable knives and lightweight cutting boards like the Tembo Tusk boards shown above save space while providing essential utility.
• Serving Tools: Don’t forget tongs, spatulas, and serving spoons. Multi-tools designed for camping often include these in a compact format.
• Seasoning Kits: A small, portable spice kit can turn basic meals into gourmet experiences. Look for reusable containers to store your favorite spices.

Cleaning Supplies

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Keeping your kitchen clean and organized is essential for hygiene and convenience. You don’t need a trailer full of cleaning gear to ensure a spic and span galley, either:

• Collapsible Sinks: These are great for washing dishes while conserving space.
• Biodegradable Soap and Scrubbers: Opt for eco-friendly products to minimize your environmental impact.
• Drying Racks: Compact drying racks or microfiber towels ensure your gear is ready for the next use.

A well-organized overland kitchen can make the difference between a seamless cooking experience and a frustrating one. With limited space and numerous items to manage, the key is to create a system that prioritizes accessibility, efficiency, and durability. Here’s how to take your kitchen organization to the next level:

Organizing Your Overland Kitchen

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Modular storage solutions are a key part of any organized overland kitchen. These systems are designed to maximize space while keeping your gear accessible and secure during travel. Consider any of the following as prime candidates to up your organization game:

• Stackable Crates: Stackable crates allow you to create vertical storage, making the most of limited space in your vehicle or trailer. Look for rugged, weather-resistant crates with locking mechanisms to keep contents secure on rough trails.
• Clear Bins and Lids: Clear storage bins make it easy to see what’s inside without having to open them. This can save you valuable time when setting up or packing up your kitchen.
• Customizable Inserts: Many modular storage options come with dividers or inserts that allow you to create compartments tailored to specific kitchen items. For example, you can dedicate one section to utensils, another to spices, and a third to cleaning supplies.
• Soft-Sided Organizers: For lighter items like collapsible bowls or dish towels, soft-sided organizers or roll-up storage bags can be a compact and flexible solution.

 

Another option to seriously consider for organizing your overland kitchen is a drawer or slide-out system like the Goose Gear kitchen setup shown above. These items are game-changers for overland kitchens and offer easy access to essential gear without the hassle of unloading your entire setup. Here are some options to think about:

• Slide-Out Kitchen Platforms: These platforms allow you to pull out your stove, prep space, or even a sink from your vehicle, turning your tailgate or side door into a fully functional kitchen station.
• Fridge Slides: A slide-out fridge tray ensures you can reach your cooler or portable fridge without struggling to lift or reposition it. This is especially useful for larger fridges that are heavy when fully loaded.
• Utensil Drawers: Dedicated utensil drawers keep small items like knives, forks, and can openers from getting lost in the shuffle. Consider adding non-slip mats or dividers to prevent items from rattling or shifting during transit.
• Dual-Level Systems: Maximize storage by using dual-level drawer systems. The top level can hold frequently used items, while the bottom level can store bulkier or less-accessed gear.

Proper labeling and categorization are essential for maintaining an organized overland kitchen. When you know exactly where everything is, you can spend more time enjoying your trip and less time searching for a missing item. If you have an RV or trailer, this is simpler, given the storage they provide. Pictured above is the Escapod TOPO 2 Voyager galley, which provides an incredible level of storage and organization.

Divide your kitchen into functional zones, such as cooking, cleaning, and storage. Store items that serve a similar purpose together, such as grouping pots and pans with utensils or sponges with dish soap. Use waterproof labels to mark each container or bin, too. Include clear descriptions like "Cooking Tools," "Dry Food," or "Cleaning Supplies." If you’re using opaque storage, labels become even more crucial.

Propane Management

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Propane is one of the most dependable fuel sources for overland kitchens. It’s easy to use, efficient, and versatile, making it ideal for cooking and heating. However, you won’t have an endless supply of fuel on your trips, so managing your propane is essential.

Always bring more propane than you think you’ll need. Overestimating ensures you won’t run out of fuel in remote areas, where refills may not be readily available. Sure, extra canisters take up space and add weight to your rig, but when you need an overland kitchen that functions for the entirety of your trip, propane is a must!

Store propane canisters in a well-ventilated area and secure them to prevent movement during travel. Use a propane storage bag or case for added protection against leaks or impacts. While you’re at it, invest in a propane adapter kit to connect your stove or grill to larger refillable propane tanks. This option is more sustainable for long trips, reducing the need for single-use canisters.

Meal Planning and Prep Tips

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Efficient meal planning is a game-changer for overlanding. It saves time, minimizes waste, and ensures you enjoy great meals without unnecessary hassle. With some thoughtful preparation, you can create an overland kitchen experience that’s as functional as it is enjoyable.

One of the most effective ways to streamline your overland kitchen is by prepping as much as possible before you leave home. So, pre-chop any ingredients you can to eliminate the need for cutting boards and knives if space is at a premium. Also consider marinating proteins ahead of time and storing them in airtight containers so you don’t have to do so while you’re traveling.

Pre-mixed spices can also be a game-changer for meal prep. Create spice blends at home and put them in small containers or resealable bags to reduce clutter in your overland kitchen. Furthermore, batch cook meals ahead of time and freeze the food. That way, when you’re ready for a meal on the trail, it’s a simple matter of reheating it and having a warm home-cooked meal.

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One-pot meals are an overland kitchen hero. They’re not only easy to prepare but also reduce the number of dishes you’ll need to clean, leaving you more time to enjoy your adventure! Try some of these favorites:

• Stews and Soups: Pack a sturdy Dutch oven or large pot to create meals like beef stew, chicken noodle soup, or vegetarian chili. Add a mix of proteins, vegetables, and spices for a nourishing, all-in-one dish.
• Stir-Fries: A quick and versatile option, stir-fries can be customized with fresh or pre-chopped vegetables, proteins, and your choice of sauces. Serve over instant rice or noodles for a complete meal.
• Pasta Dishes: One-pot pastas are crowd-pleasers. Cook the pasta in a pot with the sauce, allowing the flavors to meld. Options like mac and cheese, spaghetti with marinara, or a creamy Alfredo are sure to satisfy.
• Rice Bowls: Prepare a base of rice or quinoa and top with sautéed vegetables, beans, or shredded meats. These meals are filling, customizable, and easy to adapt to dietary preferences.

A Better Overland Kitchen Experience

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A well-equipped overland kitchen is essential for enhancing your outdoor adventures. By considering your space, selecting durable and portable gear, and staying organized, you can create a kitchen that’s functional, efficient, and enjoyable to use. Whether you’re cooking gourmet meals or quick trail snacks, your overland kitchen will be the cornerstone of your journey.

Ready to build your dream overland kitchen? We’re here to help! We can set you up with the essentials and customize your setup to suit your needs—because there’s nothing quite like cooking up a feast under the open sky. Better gear and organization makes for a better overland kitchen. We should know–we grew up overlanding and camping and have dedicated BTR Outfitters (pronounced better) to helping others get out and explore more. So, swing by our facility just off I-20 in Abilene or contact us to get the ball rolling!