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For a unique camping experience, I suggest camping on Madeline Island
Essential Items For Your Car Camping Kitchen
Camp Stove- A camp stove is an essential item for any camping kitchen. It allows you to cook meals and boil water quickly and easily. There are many types of camp stoves available, but for a minimal car camping kitchen, a compact and lightweight option is best. Look for a stove that uses small propane canisters for fuel, as they are easy to find and replace. I use the Gas One GS-3400P single burner propane stove (purchased on Amazon) that can also use butane. Cost: $35.
Cookware- To cook on your camp stove, you’ll need some basic cookware. A small pot and pan will suffice for most meals. Look for lightweight options. Non-stick coatings are also helpful in making cleaning up a breeze. To save money, I use a medium-sized saucepan that stacks with a small fry pan from an old set of cookware I already had. You can also find almost everything you need for car camping at your local thrift shop. Cost: $0 or minimal.
Plates and Bowls- To enjoy your meals, you’ll need some plates and bowls. Look for lightweight and durable options made of plastic or enamel. You can also use paper plates and bowls too. I always carry 2 of everything in case I have a guest visiting me at the campground. Cost: $10.
Cups and Mugs- One of my favorite things when I car camp is to enjoy my morning cup of coffee in a favorite mug while out in nature. Just keep a favorite mug you already have, and a refillable water bottle in your kitchen tote and you’re all set. Cost: $0.
Cutting Board and Knife- To prepare your meals, you’ll need a cutting board and a knife. Look for a small cutting board that can fit into your plastic tote and a knife with a sheath for safety. Again, most of us have extras already lying around the kitchen. Cost: $0.
Cleaning Supplies- Don’t forget to add cleaning supplies to keep your car camping kitchen area clean. Foremost, you need to pack garbage bags with you. I also pack a couple of plastic grocery store bags. My favorite thing is a collapsible dish pan or bucket. Bring a sponge or scrub brush, dish soap in a small bottle, and a towel. You can also bring biodegradable wipes for quick cleanups. Cost: $15.
Storage Containers- To keep your food organized and fresh, bring a couple of storage containers with lids. Look for lightweight and durable options that can stack together to save space. Also have on hand varying sized of sealable plastic bags. We can use these for several things, including food storage. Cost: $5.
Pack Tin Foil and Paper Towels- It’s always a good idea to pack a roll of heavy duty tin foil and a roll of paper towels in your car camping kitchen tote. Cost: $7.
Pour Over Coffee Filter- These pour over coffee screens are compact and eliminate bulky coffee making supplies. I use mine (Primula Brew Buddy Portable Pour Over with mesh filter purchased on Amazon) specifically when I am car camping. I also have a small French Press that fits in my tote. It might be me, but a French Press adds a level of sophistication to my car camping adventure. Cost: $7 or $20 for a French Press.
Now let’s look at a couple of larger must haves for your car camping kitchen.
Cooler- A cooler is essential for keeping your food and beverages cold. Look for a compact and lightweight option that can fit into your car. A cooler will be your costliest item. Cost: $30 and up.
Water Jug– Finally, don’t forget to bring a water jug for drinking and cooking water. Look for a large capacity option that you can easily refill. You can also find collapsible options that save space when not in use. Cost: $25 and up.
This is such a comprehensive list for setting up a car camping kitchen! Thanks for sharing your insights and recommendations.
Thank you!!!