Cooking Safely in your Car or Van
The allure of van life and car camping often includes the freedom to cook your meals wherever you are. However, cooking in such confined spaces requires careful consideration to ensure safety and avoid hazards such as an open flame. Here are some ways to cooking safely in your car or van or any small camper.
Equipment for Cooking Safely in your Car or Van
Selecting the right cooking equipment is the first step towards safe cooking in your vehicle. Here are some great options:
Battery Pack: This can be used to power all of the electric cooking equipment mentioned below. I use the Goal Zero Yeti 500. The battery pack can be charged at home before the trip, at an electric campsite, while driving via the 12V plug and by a solar panel while at your destination. I like to put a solar panel on top of the car and run the cord through a slightly open window. You can use any battery pack, but I would recommend at least 500 watts and the ability for pass-through charging – meaning you can charge and use the unit at the same time.
499Wh LiFePo4 Battery
12V Portable Refrigerator: A 12V portable refrigerator is easy to keep charged from the car or battery pack and will keep perishable items at the correct temperature. These come in all different sizes, just make sure the one you choose is energy efficient so it won’t wear down the battery. I like the ICECO Go 20, which is dual zone in case you need both a freezer and refrigerator compartment.
Separate Control, 21 Quart/20 Liter, DC & AC, 0℉ to 50℉, with Danfoss Compressor, Mini Fridge Cooler Refrigerator for Outdoor, Home Use, White
Electric Kettle: Making coffee in your car is easy when you can quickly boil water in your electric kettle. This is the one I use, it’s the perfect size for a cup of coffee, is energy efficient, and only takes a couple of minutes to get hot. I use this to heat up water for dishes as well.
Small Electric Thermos/Heating Cup/Bottle - Single Size Personal Tea Maker - Quick Boiling Hot Water Boiler/Heater/Warmer - 350ml Mini Electric Kettle
Mini Rice Cooker: You can make much more than rice in a mini rice cooker, I like to heat up all types of food, steam vegetables, and make soups, eggs and more. And its only 200 watts!
Steamer with Removable Nonstick Pot, Keep Warm Function & Recipe Guide, Yellow
Hotlogic Mini Portable Food Heater: The Hotlogic is a great way to slow cook on a roadtrip or campsite with electrical power. Check out the Hotlogic website for recipes.
Innovative Food Warmer and Heated Lunch Box for Adults Car/Home - Easily Cook, Reheat, and Keep Your Food Warm - Red (12V)
Safety Considerations for Cooking in your Car or Van
Ventilation: Ensure at least one window or door is open while cooking to allow fresh air to circulate. If you frequently cook inside your van, consider installing roof vents or exhaust fans to improve air quality.
Food Safety: Maintaining food safety standards is essential to prevent foodborne illnesses:
- Proper Storage: A 12V portable refrigerator is easy to keep charged from the car or battery pack and will keep perishable items at the correct temperature.
- Sanitize Surfaces: Regularly clean and sanitize all cooking surfaces and utensils.
- Safe Food Handling: Wash hands before and after handling food, and ensure meat is cooked to the proper internal temperature. I like to cook the meat before my trip and then only need to warm it up in the car.
Plan for Emergencies: Even with the best precautions, emergencies can happen. Be prepared with:
- Emergency Kit: Keep a first-aid kit, fire extinguisher, and emergency contact numbers handy.
- Know Your Surroundings: Familiarize yourself with the nearest medical facilities and emergency services.
By choosing the right equipment, ensuring proper ventilation, and following food safety practices, you can enjoy delicious meals on the road without compromising your safety. Happy cooking and safe travels! Also see our Camp Kitchen Essentials for more camp cooking gear!
