Cooking While on the Road

Every time I ask my Instagram friends what van life content they want to see, the amount of answers for cooking content is insane. I have no idea where they have gotten the impression that I'm a gourmet chef. I guess I have definitely adapted to cooking on the road and have a few basic tips to share, but I’m afraid I won’t be serving up a collection of incredible recipes anytime soon, sorry!

Cooking Gear: If you’re living on the road, invest in gear that’s as compact and versatile as your travel plans. Think compact stoves, foldable sinks, and stackable pots and pans that make your kitchen feel like it’s got superpowers. Go for a portable butane or propane stove for those gourmet campfire meals, but remember to use it in well-ventilated areas to keep things safe and breezy. Multi-use utensils are your best friend, like a pot with a lid that doubles as a frying pan. It’s all about maximizing space without sacrificing your culinary dreams.

Recipe Simplicity and Meal Planning: Keep your van life meals simple and tasty with recipes like one-pot wonders and stir-fries. They’re perfect for when you’re on the go and need to keep things low-key. Plan your meals ahead to avoid those last-minute grocery runs and minimize food waste. Stock up on non-perishables like canned goods, dried pasta, and rice to avoid unnecessary store trips or running out of ingredients. For a flavour boost without clutter, stash a small selection of spices and condiments.

Food and Fire Safety: Cook up a storm but stay smart about safety. Make sure everything is cooked thoroughly and leftovers are stored right to avoid any unpleasant surprises. When using your portable stove, follow fire safety rules and keep a fire extinguisher in your vehicle, better safe than sorry! Don’t forget to carry enough fresh water for cooking and cleaning. Personally I used kitchen wipes to wash up and did a water wash every week or so of everything when I had a water source. 

Clean as You Go: Keep your van kitchen looking fresh and feeling clean by washing dishes and cleaning spills right away. This habit keeps pesky pests at bay, prevents odours, and ensures your van stays neat and tidy. Regular cleaning also makes it easier to keep track of your supplies and keeps your cooking space safe and enjoyable. I’ll admit, it’s my least favourite chore and can feel like a real pain, but trust me—your van can get messy in a heartbeat. So, a little elbow grease now saves you a bigger mess later!

Stay Flexible: Van life is all about rolling with the punches and embracing the adventure. Stay flexible with your cooking routine and experiment with simple recipes that suit your limited kitchen setup. Being adaptable turns cooking challenges into fun, creative opportunities, making each meal an exciting part of your journey. Will every meal be a 10 out of 10? Maybe not, but that’s all part of the fun and discovery along the way!

Grocery Shopping: Make grocery shopping a part of your travel adventure by exploring local farmers' markets and supermarkets. Farmers' markets are treasure troves of fresh, seasonal produce and unique local ingredients that can elevate your meals. Not only does supporting local vendors enrich your journey, but it also keeps your diet fresh, diverse, and budget-friendly. Plus, it’s a great way to connect with the local culture and flavours wherever you roam!

Now I don’t have recipes but here is a list of some ideas that you can look up for inspiration. Disclaimer I am vegetarian so feel free to imagine these meals with meat if you eat it ahah.

I don’t have exact recipes, but here’s a list of meal ideas to get your creativity flowing. I’m vegetarian, so feel free to imagine these dishes with meat if you eat it!

Breakfast:

• Overnight Oats: Prep these bad boys in advance for a hassle-free breakfast on those early hiking mornings or long drives. Just mix oats, milk (or a plant-based alternative), and your favourite toppings like fruit or nuts, and let it chill overnight.

• Breakfast Burritos: Pack these with protein-rich ingredients like scrambled eggs, beans, cheese, and veggies. They’re filling and will keep you going through a busy day of adventure.

• Toast: Simple yet satisfying. Avocado toast topped with feta is a classic. It’s affordable, easy to make, and never fails to hit the spot.

• Pancakes: Keep a box of pancake mix handy. It’s a no-fuss backup that lasts ages and makes breakfast feel a bit special.

• Egg McMuffins: My go-to for months! Swap in veggie sausages for a delicious twist, and you’ve got a tasty, protein-packed start to your day.

• Smoothies: If you have a portable blender, this is a great way to use up fruit before it goes bad. Just blend and go.

Lunch

• Wraps and Sandwiches: The ultimate vanlife staple. A falafel wrap packed with fresh salad never gets old and is super easy to customize.

• Chickpea Tacos: These are a breeze to whip up and are ridiculously tasty. Just add your favourite toppings for a satisfying meal.

• Salads: Go classic with a Greek salad or mix it up with different types. Fresh, easy, and perfect for those warm van life days.

Dinner:

• Pasta: Pesto pasta was my road trip MVP. Red sauce pasta is also a winner. Both are easy, last a while, and make great leftovers.

• Stir-Fry and Pad Thai: Mix and match whatever veggies you’ve got on hand. Tofu is an essential in my fridge, and stir-fries are a great way to use up produce.

• Nachos: Quick, easy, and delicious. Swap sour cream for hummus to keep things fresh longer. Perfect for a lazy night in.

• Soup and Bread: On chilly evenings, pre-made soups and toasted bread are a lifesaver. Keep a few varieties on hand for emergencies.

• Gyozas: Keep a pack in the freezer for those “I-can’t-be-bothered” nights. They’re quick to cook and always hit the spot.

• Curries: Simple and satisfying. Just add rice, some veggies, spices, and coconut cream. No need for fancy recipes—just hearty comfort.

• Lentil Soup: Packed with nutrients and as easy to make as curry. It’s a great option for a warm, filling meal.