Summer RV Camping: Outdoor Cooking Tips

Summer RV camping is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors while savoring delicious meals cooked on the grill or campfire. Cooking outside your RV is a fun and rewarding experience that enhances the camping adventure and keeps the RV cool. Here are some practical tips to make your outdoor cooking a success.

Plan Ahead for Outdoor Cooking

First and foremost, planning your meals in advance and packing accordingly is crucial for a smooth outdoor cooking experience during your summer RV camping trip. Take the time to create a menu for each day, considering the number of people you’ll be feeding and any dietary restrictions. Make a grocery list based on your menu to ensure you have all the necessary ingredients.

When selecting ingredients, opt for versatile items that can be used in multiple recipes. This will help save valuable space in your RV fridge and pantry. For example, choose vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini that can be grilled, sautéed, or added to foil packets. Pack staples like rice, pasta, and potatoes that serve as a foundation for various meals. Don’t forget to include a variety of proteins, such as chicken, beef, and tofu, to keep your meals diverse and satisfying.

Streamline the Outdoor Cooking Process

To streamline the outdoor cooking process at the campsite, prep as much as you can at home. Chop vegetables, measure out spices, and mix seasoning blends in advance. Store prepped ingredients in labeled containers or resealable bags for easy access. You can even pre-cook certain items, like rice or quinoa, and reheat them at the campsite to save time and fuel.

When it comes to outdoor cooking equipment, invest in multi-functional items. A cast iron skillet is a must-have for its durability and even heat distribution. It’s perfect for everything from searing steaks to baking cornbread. Don’t forget to pack long-handled tongs, a sturdy spatula, and heavy-duty oven mitts for handling hot cookware safely.

Take advantage of your RV’s outdoor kitchen amenities, like the built-in grill or stove. If your RV doesn’t have these features, bring a portable propane stove and grill or consider cooking over the campfire. Foil packet meals, like the “Campfire Beef and Veggie Foil Packets” recipe below, are an easy and delicious option for outdoor cooking.

Campfire Beef and Veggie Foil Packets

Summer RV camping. Mom and children are sitting at the campsite picnic table in front of a travel trailer while Dad is cooking at the outdoor grill. — Summer RV camping & cooking outdoors.

Here’s a simple foil packet recipe to try on your next summer RV camping trip:

1 lb ground beef
1 diced onion
2 diced potatoes
2 chopped carrots
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

Mix all ingredients in a bowl and divide into four foil packets. Seal tightly and place in the campfire coals or on the grill for 20-30 minutes, flipping once halfway through. Carefully open the packets and enjoy your hearty meal!

By planning your meals, packing versatile ingredients, and prepping in advance, you’ll be well-equipped for a successful outdoor cooking experience during your summer RV camping trip. With a little organization and the right tools, you can create memorable meals that enhance your camping adventures. Embrace the opportunity to get creative with your menu and savor the flavors of the great outdoors!