RV Kitchen Storage And Accessories

First, lets get to know Amie and myself a.k.a. TheRoadRoamers a little bit. You’re not just looking at a random assortment of tips and tricks for RV living and kitchen organization here. What I’m going to share comes from real, hard-earned experience. Amie and I, didn’t just wake up one day as experts in RV gear and accessories we have lived it.

Now what is this so-called journey to expertise? It all began when Amie and I decided that weekend camping and vacationing in an RV wasn’t enough so we plunged into full-time RV living three years ago. Our background is diverse, with over 50 years combined in the automotive industry, (me) and real-estate industry, (Amie) complementing our new lifestyle.

I am someone who prides himself on being a “fix anything” kind of guy. With experience spanning over 27 years in the Autobody business, those skills have become invaluable in our RV living. As many of you know, an RV going down the road bounces around mimicking a 5 or 6 Richter-scaled earthquake, causing things to loosen and/or even break. Facing these challenges head-on has only sharpened our skills and knowledge.

Amie also has a daycare management background, and brings a unique angle to the table. She has mastered the art of keeping spaces organized and functional – a perfect fit for managing a compact RV kitchen. Through these varied experiences, we’ve become adept at selecting and using the right tools and accessories to create a comfortable and efficient RV living space.

You might say that our “tag team” approach (my knack for repairs and Amie’s organizational skills) has provided us with a comprehensive toolkit for thriving in an RV. Our shared journey isn’t only about learning how to keep our kitchen gear secure or picking the right appliances; it’s about adapting to the constant changes of life on the road and making the most of our environment. Let’s move forward to the practical side, where I’ll hand you the best tips for squeezing every inch of utility out of your RV kitchen.

Multi-use Appliances : Amie’s Compact Solutions

I’m going to kick things off by cluing you in on some game-changing appliances that have revolutionized RV kitchen storage and cooking. Each one of these nifty gadgets offers compact convenience and usually does the job of two or more devices.

Think about the ease of preparing a stew or sautéing veggies with an InstantPot. This device is not just a pressure cooker; it’s also your rice steamer, slow cooker, and even a yogurt maker all rolled into one powerful package. It’s a favorite for a reason, versatility without hogging all your cupboard space, and is available in different size.

Consider the slow cooker, this unsung hero of make-ahead meals adds value with its set-and-forget convenience, and also comes in varying sizes. And when you’re working with limited counterspace, the Ninja Foodi XL smart grill/air fryer becomes a miracle worker. Grill, air fry, bake, and roast without firing up the propane or heating up your living space. When you are in a site that includes electric, that’s a bonus, because propane can get expensive. With that in mind, you may be actually saving electricity by not heating up your RV and causing the AC to run longer in the summer months.

What about baking and toasting? The NuWave Bravo XL smart oven has it under control, offering precise temperature settings to ensure your cookies or pizza come out just right. And when it’s time to mix up a batch of pancake batter or use an immersion blender in a soup, the Ninja Foodi Power Mixer System is standing by, ready to take on the task without cluttering your workspace.

For those occasions when you need an extra burner, Amie and I couldn’t be happier with the Cusimax Infrared 1500-watt Electric Burner. It saves on propane, is simple to clean, and, most importantly, it’s easy to store away when not in use.

You can always adjust your approach down the road, but starting with a smart selection of appliances paves the way to a more efficient RV kitchen experience. Don’t worry too much about losing out on cooking capabilities when downsizing as multitaskers like these have got you covered.  In our blog post, RV Guide for Beginners, we have a few items to consider as you compile your own RV checklist.

Amie and I love taking our culinary adventures outside, especially during those warm summer months. That’s where our ALPS Mountaineering XL lightweight packable table comes into play. This table withstands frequent travel, providing the perfect spot to set up your outdoor kitchen (or even use as extra dining space). And with our water-resistant covers, we ensure our appliances are protected regardless of the weather.

Again, choosing to use these electric gems isn’t just about cooking convenience; as I mentioned earlier, it’s also about conserving propane. I know plenty of you understand how tricky most RV ovens are to maneuver. By leaning on these trusty appliances, we bypass those oven-related challenges (too small, lack of temperature control, and inefficient) entirely.

A lot is happening very quickly in the RV world, but sticking to these essential tools will help you stay ahead of the curve, making your travels that much easier. What’s even better? These practical solutions to traditional RV challenges seamlessly lead into our next topic: how to enjoy preparing your meals under the open sky.

Cooking Al Fresco: Enhancing RV Life with Outdoor Meal Prep

If you want to truly embrace the RV lifestyle, bringing your kitchen outdoors is a game-changer. Imagine preparing your meals surrounded by nature, without the constraint of your RV’s walls. It’s about making the most of your scenic surroundings while enjoying the practical benefits of outdoor cooking.

Here’s the deal: using electric appliances outside doesn’t just offer an open-air dining experience; as I said before, it also keeps your RV cool during those sweltering summer months. This strategy is something that Amie and I, TheRoadRoamers, use regularly to maintain a comfortable temperature inside our home on wheels.

Now, I know what you’re thinking, “Outdoor cooking sounds great, but what about my appliances?” Well, don’t worry too much about exposure to the elements. With lightweight packable tables to set up your cooking station and water-resistant covers to shield your gear, you can protect your investment and keep the alfresco vibe going.

Amie’s top picks for outdoor cooking include the versatility of the NuWave Bravo XL Smart Oven, the Ninja Foodi XL for grilling and air frying, and even the slow cooker for those ‘set it and forget it’ meals that simmer to perfection as you relax outdoors. And when we’re all done, those covers – and part of our RV – safeguard our appliances until their next use.

There’s something truly special about enjoying a meal under the open sky—especially when you’ve prepared it right there in the great outdoors. Plus, by sticking to electric appliances, you’re going to cut down on propane use, which is not only good for your wallet, but also, may just be better for the environment.

Secure Storage Solutions: Keeping Your Kitchen in Place

You’re going to find out about some clever hacks that ensure everything in your RV kitchen stays right where it should. Picture this: You’ve arrived at your serene campsite, you open your RV kitchen cabinets, and nothing comes tumbling out. That’s the peace of mind these tips offer.

Retractable rods inside cabinets are a game-changer. Just like a shower curtain rod, they can be adjusted to fit snugly and keep your items secure. You can install these not just in cabinets, but in the refrigerator too, making sure that your goods don’t go on an adventure of their own.

Cabinet and drawer liners might seem like a simple addition, but they’re pivotal in the battle against slide-and-bump. These grippy materials keep your utensils and pantry items from shifting as you traverse winding roads. Plus, they help protect your kitchenware from scratches and other travel-induced injuries.

If you want to go the extra mile, using organizers like baskets, bins and racks can segment your storage space. This keeps similar items together and prevents the chaotic jumble of items when it’s time to unpack or find something quickly.

Now, transitioning from keeping your items safe to making your own expertise work for you on the road…

RV Lifestyle Tips: Organizing for Comfort and Convenience

If you’re embracing the RV lifestyle, you know that organization isn’t just a convenience—it’s a necessity. With space at a premium, finding clever ways to store your kitchen tools can be the difference between chaos and comfort. I’m going to share some of the strategies that Amie has mastered, thanks to her experience running a daycare. It’s all about making the most of every inch.

Choose something that you like which also works in the intended space. If you want a starting point, consider investing in adjustable, modular storage solutions. They can transform a cluttered kitchen into one of efficiency. Wire spice racks attached to a pantry door or even a wall next to your cooking space can be attractive and handy! Magnetic knife bars mounted next to your food prep area (out of reach of young children if needed) not only keep the knives out of a drawer for space and safety purposes, they also help keep them organized. Retractable rods and cabinet liners aren’t just for keeping things in place during travel—they can help define and organize your space. These are the tips that make you feel like you’ve got a handle on RV living, even when the road gets bumpy.

Don’t worry too much about getting your RV kitchen perfect on the first try. Trust me, you can – and most likely will – make adjustments to your approach down the road. Embrace the learning process; each trip will teach you something new about what works best for you and your space. Remember, this isn’t just about stowing your InstantPot or Cusimax Burner. It’s about creating a harmonious space that supports your adventurous lifestyle.

Throughout our journey as TheRoadRoamers, Amie and I have seen a lot—and learned plenty along the way. Our combined knowledge from the automotive industry, real estate business, and the great school of life on the road has not only prepared us for the expected but also the unexpected challenges of RV living. Fixing breakdowns or devising clever storage hacks can be part of the joy—if you approach it with the right mindset.

I truly hope that you find these tips as useful as we have in our years of RV living. Feel free to adapt them to your needs and share your own discoveries with the community. After all, sharing knowledge is how we all grow together on this journey. May your roads be smooth and your storage solutions be smarter! Thanks for joining me on this adventure in RV living, and I’m looking forward to hearing how your kitchen domain evolves. Please feel free to comment below on your thoughts and perhaps even share some ideas with our community.

Please leave comments below and any questions you may have.  Also, if you have any kitchen and storage ideas please share with our community.  Thanks for Reading! We’ll see you on the Road!

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10 Comments

  1. Amie and Scott, TheRoadRoamers, provide an authentic and insightful look into their journey of transitioning from weekend RVers to full-time RV living experts. Their diverse backgrounds in the automotive and real estate industries, coupled with hands-on experience on the road, form the foundation of their expertise. The “tag team” approach, combining repair skills with organizational mastery, is a unique and effective strategy for thriving in the RV lifestyle.The incorporation of personal experiences, specific product recommendations, and practical advice creates a guide that feels like a conversation with experienced friends rather than a set of generic tips. The focus on organization, from retractable rods to cabinet liners, aligns with the necessity of maximizing every inch of space in an RV kitchen.Thank you!

    1. Thank you for the comment.  Yes we have many years of hand on experience, and we live as full time RVers.  We’ve gone through many different types of accessories until we found ones that work for us.  I guess that’s what makes us experts on the subject.  

      Best Regards

      Scott

  2. Hey Scott,
    RV living is liberating in many ways, such as the ability to live in different cities or states whenever. Some of my friends have the Instant Pot and it is a time saver for sure. For novice RVers, what things should they consider (besides accessories)? What is the most memorable state or city you have visited?

    1. Hi Goodwin,

      For novices there are so many things to consider.  That is why we have our YouTube channel TheRoadRoamers.  That being said, for people that want to go with a travel trailer or 5th wheel they should make sure they match up their truck with their RV.  Not having a truck with the right towing capacity and payload can be a big problem and can be very unsafe.  It they want to go full time, I suggest they go with a truck that has more payload than they think they will need because of all the unexpected things you will need to live full time in your RV.  

      We have not made it out west yet, and we lived in New England, which is very beautiful.  So, as far as the states we have visited so far, I would have to say Texas.  It’s not at all what I expected.  The mix of Mountains, lakes, hills, farms and ranches was great. 

      Best Regards

      Scott

  3. Hi Scott,
    I’m truly impressed by the blend of practical advice and personal experience you’ve shared. It’s like you’ve taken the essence of RV living, mixed it with a dash of humor, and served it up in a way that’s both informative and engaging. The part about using multi-use appliances to save space and the clever hacks for secure storage really hit home for me. It’s clear you’ve mastered the art of making the most out of every inch in an RV kitchen, which is no small feat!
    I’ve got a question: How do you handle those times when even the best-laid kitchen organization plans go awry during travel? Any funny or memorable mishaps that turned into valuable lessons?
    Thank you for your work and sharing your journey with us.

    Best regards,
    Makhsud

    1. Hi Makhsud, 

      Thanks for your comment!  It’s funny you should ask.  The first RV we bought was a travel trailer and it had slides on both sides in the rear living area.  One day, after traveling, we when to put the slide on the non campside out and as we were doing that heard a loud crunch sound.  We were like, oh no, that can’t be good.  What happen was, one of the drawers in the back opened, and we didn’t know.  So when the slide went out it nearly broke it right off.  Not funny at the time, but we have a good laugh about it now and then. That taught us an important lesson. 

      Best Regard

      Scott  

  4. With your extensive experience in the automotive and real estate industries, how has your approach to RV living and kitchen organization been influenced? Your diverse background seems like a treasure trove of skills to tap into. Have you discovered any unexpected parallels between managing properties and managing a compact RV kitchen? It’s fascinating how different professional backgrounds can intersect and complement each other in the context of RV life. I’d love to hear more about how your past experiences have shaped your strategies for thriving in the RV lifestyle.

    1. Hi Jason.

      The automotive industry, as well as Scott’s woodworking and building background and skills has helped with any necessary RV repairs, maintenance and modifications.  Especially since he has such an understanding of how things should work and is creative with solutions when necessary.

      My experience in the real estate industry has included kitchen design, modular home sales, residential home sales, general contracting and building experience, as well as the occasional property management.  I have a gift of looking at a situation (house layouts, kitchen layouts and organization – for instance) and figuring out how to make it work and work better.  I did amaze myself that I have pared down from my sticks and bricks kitchen (which was large with lots of cabinets, multiple pantries, and a 9′ island) into the much smaller kitchen in our RV by bringing in multi-functional items, collapsible containers, and adding in items I didn’t think I would need – yet I missed when they were stored – and removing items I thought I would need, yet didn’t.  Now that we have been living in this particular RV for over two years, I am ready to purge most of the additional items I kept stored as I realize if I didn’t need them by now, I probably don’t need them.

      We will continue to write articles to provide additional information so please keep an eye out!

  5. Scott, This article is a goldmine for anyone who wants to make the most of their RV kitchen It’s clear you have tons of experience with RV cooking!] You cover all the bases, from clever storage solutions to tips for whipping up delicious meals outdoors. Multifunctional appliances are key to saving space and making a variety of dishes – love the tip about using an Instant Pot or Ninja Foodi! Your tips for enjoying the great outdoors while you cook, with advice on using folding tables and protecting your appliances with water-resistant covers are points well taken. This is a must-read for anyone who wants to turn their RV kitchen into a culinary haven! Who knew there was so much to know about an RV?

    Bob

    1. Thank you Bob for the kind words – much appreciated!  Be certain to keep an eye out for more specific future articles!

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