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The Ultimate RV Kitchen Setup

This guide to RV kitchens will explore everything from the types of kitchens you can expect with each RV class to which appliances are worth that coveted counter space.

Woman smiling in an RV kitchen while cooking pasta with man in the background looking at his phone.
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Mealtime brings people together and it all begins in the kitchen, the heart of the home. This guide to RV kitchens will explore everything from the types of kitchens you can expect with each RV class to which appliances are worth that coveted counter space. Read on to become an expert on mobile culinary quarters.

Types of RV Kitchens by Vehicle Class

What you can expect out of an RV kitchen will depend almost entirely on what type of RV you’re working with. Let’s take a look at what each vehicle class has to offer in terms of kitchen size and quality:

Class A Kitchens

Class A coaches are the biggest and most luxurious motorhomes in the RV world, and their kitchens generally reflect that status.

Kitchens in Class A RVs will typically feature all the appliances you’d expect out of a full kitchen: a residential-sized refrigerator, full-size sink, microwave, stovetop, and a convection oven. The only place that Class A kitchens generally fall short of a “real” kitchen is in their counter space. The other major appliance Class A kitchens often lack is a dishwasher, although it is becoming more common.

Class B Kitchens

Class B RVs are the smallest of the bunch and their kitchens are no exception. Although camper van designers are getting more and more creative, there is a hard limit to how much you can do with a kitchen in such a small RV. Class B vehicles generally include everything you need to cook a full meal: a stovetop, mini-fridge, and a small sink, but you’d be hard-pressed to find a Class B van with a full oven, microwave, and dishwasher. Generally speaking, Class B owners are committed to the minimalist lifestyle and this type of kitchen is just enough to get the job done.

Class C Kitchens

Most Class C rigs represent the middle ground in terms of space and features. In Class C kitchens, you’ll usually find a medium-sized fridge, three-burner stove, oven, and occasionally a microwave. Counter space will typically be very limited, so utilizing the dinner table and other surfaces for food prep may be necessary if you’re planning to cook big meals.

Fifth Wheels 

Fifth-wheel kitchens often provide RVers with fully-equipped kitchen spaces with full-sized, top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances and plenty of counter space. Many fifth wheels even include islands and bar seating.

Travel Trailers

Travel trailers come in a wide range of sizes and the kitchens generally scale in size and quality with the overall size of the trailer. You’ll be able to find anything from a small Class B style kitchen to a full residential style kitchen like you’d find in a fifth wheel.

Pop-Up Campers

Pop-up campers generally fall on the smaller end of towable RVs, making them easily maneuverable and easily towed by a wider range of vehicles. With that convenience comes sacrifice -- notably kitchen space and quality. Like Class B RVs, pop-up campers generally provide a kitchen equipped to cook full meals, but you will rarely find one with an oven or a microwave, and counter space is often very limited.

Outdoor Kitchens

Outdoor kitchens in RVs are a practical addition for those who enjoy cooking and dining in the open air. Commonly found in larger RVs like some fifth wheels and travel trailers, these kitchens usually include a basic grill, a small refrigerator, and sometimes a sink or a portable stovetop. They offer a convenient way to prepare meals outside, making them ideal for social gatherings and tailgates. While they're more compact and less equipped than indoor RV kitchens, outdoor kitchens provide a simple and enjoyable way to cook while enjoying the outdoors, and can be a great supplement to an indoor kitchen.

Key Components of RV Kitchens

Now that we’ve covered what you can expect from each type of RV kitchen, let’s dig into some of those components that make up your RV kitchen.

RV Kitchen Countertops

Laminate is far and away the most common material used for RV countertops and given its light weight, low cost, and customizability, it’s a great economical option for your countertops.

A step up from laminate, solid surface countertops are another popular choice for RVs. Solid surface is a combination of mineral and particle dust with a scratch-resistant surface, often designed to mimic high-quality stone materials. Solid surface counters are often found in higher-end RVs

Butcher block, or solid wood, countertops are another common option for RV kitchens that add a rustic and natural feel. Depending on the wood used, these can be very lightweight and durable, but they do require more upkeep than harder materials.

RV Kitchen Sinks

When you’re considering the ideal sink for your RV kitchen, there are several key factors to keep in mind that can greatly enhance your culinary experience on the road:

  • Size and Depth: The sink size should align with your cooking and cleaning habits. Larger, deeper sinks can handle more dishes and bigger cookware, which is great for families or those who love to cook, but this does mean it will take up more counter space. Smaller sinks save space but might be challenging for washing larger items.

  • Material: Stainless steel sinks are popular for their durability and ease of cleaning while composite sinks can offer a quieter, more heat-resistant option. Acrylic sinks provide a lightweight, cost-effective choice but likely will not be as durable.

  • Shape: The shape of the sink can influence how you use your kitchen space. Traditional rectangular sinks offer more room for stacking dishes, while round or corner sinks can save counter space and fit better in compact kitchen layouts.

  • Hot Water System Compatibility: Make sure your sink and faucet are compatible with your RV's hot water system, whether it's tankless or traditional.

  • Fold-Down Faucets: In small spaces, a fold-down faucet allows the area above the sink to be used for storage, a dish drying rack, or as an additional prep area when the sink isn’t in use.

  • Sink Accessories: Look for sinks that come with useful accessories like drying racks, cutting board covers, bottom grids, or colanders. These can enhance the functionality of your kitchen without occupying extra space.

RV Stovetops and Cooktops

When you’re deciding on an RV stovetop or cooktop, several considerations can enhance your cooking experience and adapt to the unique challenges of RV living:

  • Number of Burners: Most RV stovetops come with 2 or 3 burners, less than the standard 4-burner residential model. While this limits the number of dishes you can cook simultaneously, it's a space-saving necessity in an RV.

  • Fuel Type: The majority of RV stoves are propane-fueled, heating up quickly and offering consistent cooking temperatures. Make sure that your RV has a reliable propane supply and make sure to add extra propane to your packing list if your route limits access to stores.

  • Size and Space: Consider the physical size of the stovetop and how it fits into your RV kitchen layout. A compact design maximizes counter and storage space. Some stovetops come with covers that can double as additional counter space when the stove is not in use.

  • Ease of Cleaning: Cooking on the road means dealing with limited water resources. Choose a stovetop that's easy to clean, with fewer crevices and a smooth surface. Removable burners or grates can also make cleaning easier.

  • Oven Integration: Some RVs include an oven beneath the stovetop. If you enjoy baking or cooking dishes that require an oven, this might be a feature to consider. Be aware that RV ovens are typically smaller and might require you to adjust the size of the pans you bring on your adventure.

  • Safety Features: Look for stovetops with safety features like automatic shut-off or flame failure devices, especially important in the confined and mobile environment of an RV.

  • Outdoor Compatibility: Some RVers prefer to have an additional portable cooktop for outdoor use. These can be ideal for enjoying the outdoors while cooking and can also serve as a backup cooking option in a pinch.

RV Refrigerators

Most RV fridges either run on electricity or gas, so you won’t need to burn your precious propane as long as you have access to hookups. It’s also important to note that RV fridges need to be level to function properly, so it’s important to always level your RV when you’re planning to be parked for a while. The size of RV refrigerators varies greatly, from mini fridges to full-size residential depending on the size of your rig.

RV Kitchen Appliances

I think we’ve driven the point home by now.. space is often limited when it comes to RV kitchens. But if you’re used to a full-size residential kitchen, you’ve probably become accustomed to a wide variety of appliances and kitchen tools at the ready. Let’s take a look at some that are essential for your kitchen, and others that are more of a luxury item if the space allows to help you narrow it down.

Essential Appliances:

  • Compact Refrigerator: A must-have for storing perishables. Choose a size that meets your needs without overwhelming the space.

  • Stovetop or Cooktop: A 2 or 3-burner propane stovetop is typically sufficient for most cooking needs in an RV.

  • Microwave or Convection Oven: For quick reheating or baking, a microwave or a compact convection oven can be a great addition.

Luxury or Optional Appliances:

  • Dishwasher: A dishwasher is often a luxury in an RV, considering the space it occupies and the water it uses. For smaller parties or less frequent use, manual dishwashing is typically more practical.

  • Ice Maker: While convenient, consider if the freezer space it occupies could be better used. Portable ice makers can be an alternative.

  • Large Ovens or Extra Burners: Only necessary if you frequently bake or cook large meals.

  • Espresso Machine or Advanced Coffee Makers: Consider the space vs. the need. A French

  • Instant Pots or Multi-Cookers: These can replace several appliances (like slow cookers, rice cookers, and pressure cookers) and are efficient in both energy and space. They can also reduce the amount of propane you use running your oven or stove.

Remember, you not only need the counter space for your suite of appliances, but you’ll also need enough storage space to effectively secure appliances while you’re in motion.

RV Kitchen Accessories

Fortunately, there are also numerous space-saving kitchen accessories and gadgets designed specifically for RV living. Here's a list of practical RV kitchen accessories to consider:

Camping Recipes

Once your RV kitchen is all squared away, it’s time to get to work cooking! Check out these camping recipe guides to spark some inspiration for your next trip!

Ready to hit the road and put that kitchen to use? Take advantage of our user-friendly interactive booking platform to make the booking process as simple as clicking a few buttons. Customize your search to find the perfect RV park and only see sites that are available for your selected dates. Happy camping!