Kitchen Setup For An Overlanding Rig

Overlanding is a popular and exciting way to explore the great outdoors, and having a well-designed kitchen setup can make a big difference in your overall experience. Whether you're planning a weekend camping trip or embarking on a long-term overlanding adventure, a properly designed kitchen setup can provide you with all the tools you need to prepare delicious meals in remote locations.

Let's discuss the key components to designing an overlanding kitchen setup that is efficient, practical, and tailored to your specific needs. From choosing the right cooking equipment to organizing your kitchen and storing food and supplies, we're going to dive into everything you need to know to create an ideal overlanding kitchen setup.

Tailgate Table

The tailgate of your vehicle can serve as a perfect table for your overland kitchen setup. On longer trips we'll pair a folding table with the tailgate, but for the most part the tailgate will suffice. A recommendation we have is to replace the surface with a slid sheet of metal. The uneven surface on the stock tailgate can cause some unnecessary headaches. If you don't have a tailgate, we recommend you check out this table that we've used for years!

Cooking Equipment

Once you have a stable surface for cooking, you'll need the right equipment. A compact stove that can be easily stored in your vehicle is essential for outdoor cooking. A propane stove is a good option, but a compact backpacking stove can also work well. A portable grill or campfire cooking grate can provide additional cooking options. A set of durable cast iron pots and pans are ideal for outdoor cooking. We've used a number of stoves, but curently run the Front Runner CADAC stove and absolutely love it.

Food Storage

Food storage is also important for your overland kitchen setup. A high-quality cooler can keep your food fresh for several days, while airtight containers can keep dry goods like rice, pasta, and snacks fresh and organized. Consider investing in a fridge or a portable freezer that can be powered by your vehicle's battery. This will allow you to store perishable food for a longer period of time. We use the Dometic CFX3 45 and love it!

Water Storage and Filtration

Access to clean water is crucial for any overland kitchen setup. Collapsible water containers or jerry cans are great for transporting water, and a water filtration system can be a lifesaver in areas where clean water is scarce. A gravity-fed water filter system can provide a large amount of clean water without requiring electricity. We run two Dometic 2.9 Gallon Water Jugs because of their durability. There are many options available, but read the reviews before purchasing!

Kitchen Setup and Organization

Having a proper setup and organization in your overland kitchen can make a big difference in meal prep and cooking efficiency. A hanging organizer can keep utensils and cooking tools within easy reach, while a small pantry or cabinet can keep dry goods and other cooking essentials organized and easily accessible. A dishpan and dish rack can be used for cleaning dishes and cookware. The Front Runner Utensil Set is a great option for every rig!

With the right setup and preparation, you can enjoy delicious meals while enjoying the great outdoors! Let us know if you have questions about our set up! We hope to see you out there!

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