Affordable and Delicious Meals to Cook in a Campervan

Get ready to hit the road in your campervan rental and embark on a mouthwatering adventure! In this helpful guide, we share the many benefits of cooking in your campervan. We’ve also got some must-know tips to help you make the most of your camper kitchen. And of course, we’ve included a selection of affordable and delicious meals you can cook right in your campervan. From grilled fish with a refreshing salad to a delectable pear and rhubarb crumble… and so easy too!

With our tasty camping cooking recipes, you'll enjoy a fantastic culinary experience as you explore NZ. Let's make your campervan road trip a tasty one!

Can you cook in a campervan?

When planning campervan travel, the question ‘Can you cook inside a camper?’ is often top of mind. Well, we've got great news for you. Being able to cook in a campervan is one of the biggest benefits of choosing van travel for your next roadtrip. Mighty campers are thoughtfully fitted out with cooking equipment and a fridge, making it a breeze to prepare meals wherever you go.

With a campervan hire, you're the chef of your own culinary journey. Picture this: you pull up at one of New Zealand’s picturesque campgrounds, park up, pour a glass of wine, and prepare your favourite meal as you take in the view. Equipped with a stove, sink, and all the necessary cooking utensils, you have the freedom to whip up delicious meals at your convenience. Whether you're craving a sizzling steak or a fresh salad, it’s no problem when you have a campervan kitchen.

Benefits of cooking in your campervan

Being able to cook in your campervan rental comes with loads of benefits. It's incredibly budget-friendly. Plus, you have the freedom to stop wherever you please and whip up a meal whenever hunger strikes. In addition, a big benefit of campervan cooking is the opportunity to savour local flavours. Let's dive deeper into these wonderful benefits of cooking in your campervan.

Budget-friendly

One of the major advantages of cooking in your campervan is how budget-friendly it can be. The cost savings compared to dining out at restaurants and buying takeaways soon add up! By preparing your own meals, you have complete control over your food expenses. Campervan cooking allows you to shop for budget-friendly ingredients, which are often readily available at local supermarkets or farmers' markets. Embracing campervan cooking not only satisfies your taste buds, but it also contributes to a more economical travel experience. That also leaves you with extra funds to add exciting activities to your road trip planner.

Flexibility on the open road

Travelling by campervan is like having a kitchen on wheels. You have the freedom and convenience to cook whenever and wherever you please. Whether you're an early riser or prefer late-night meals, campervan cooking allows you to cater to your personal preferences and dietary needs. You're not bound by restaurant hours or limited menu options. Instead, you can create your own culinary adventures as you explore NZ.

Local flavours

Indulging in local flavours is one of the joys of campervan cooking, and it's an experience you won't want to miss during your New Zealand road trip. Take the opportunity to explore farmers markets and stop at roadside produce stalls. From farm-fresh vegetables to delectable New Zealand honey, cheese, and homemade sauces, you'll discover a world of flavours that will elevate your meals to new heights. By incorporating these local ingredients into your dishes, you not only infuse them with authenticity but also ensure a nutritious and satisfying experience. Plus, you’re supporting local families and communities – and that’s always a win.

Campervan cooking also allows you to have full control over portion sizes, ingredients, and cooking methods. That means you can make healthier choices and customise your meals according to your preferences.

Image: Mark Clinton

Essential tips for campervan cooking

Careful planning, a well-stocked pantry, and flavourful seasonings are the must-haves for creating delicious meals in your campervan kitchen! Let's dive into these essential tips and make your camping cooking experience a memorable one.

Plan ahead

The last thing you want to think about on holiday is ‘what’s for dinner?’. A little forward planning can take all the hassle out of mealtimes.

Plan meals in advance: By creating a meal plan, you can ensure a variety of dishes while minimising waste and accommodating dietary needs. Consider including easy and quick meal options in your plan, especially for days when you have limited time or energy. Simple recipes like sandwiches, wraps, or one-pot meals can be lifesavers during busy travel days.
Create a grocery checklist: Make a list of essential ingredients and supplies you'll need for your meals to ensure you don't forget anything when shopping.
Research local specialties: Before your trip, research the regional specialties of the areas you'll be visiting. This allows you to plan meals that incorporate local flavours and ingredients.
Try new cooking methods: Familiarise yourself with different cooking methods suitable for campervan cooking, such as grilling, one-pot cooking, or foil packet cooking (wrapping foods in foil to cook on an open fire or barbecue). This knowledge will help you plan recipes that are suited to your camping cooking equipment.
Have a backup plan: Despite careful planning, unexpected situations can arise. Be prepared with a backup plan, such as having a few non-perishable backup meals or knowing where to get cheap eats nearby in case you feel like taking a break from cooking.

Stock your campervan pantry

By having a well-stocked campervan pantry, you'll have the necessary ingredients at your fingertips to whip up delicious meals on the go. Here are a few tips to help make it easy to fuel your culinary creativity while travelling.

Opt for versatile ingredients: Select ingredients that can be used in multiple dishes to maximise their usage and reduce the number of items you need to pack.
Consider storage limitations: Take into account the limited storage space in your campervan and choose ingredients and pantry items that are compact with minimal packaging to dispose of.
Don't forget the spices and condiments: Pack a selection of your favourite spices, herbs, and condiments to add flavour to your dishes. Small containers or travel-sized packets are ideal.
Pack storage containers: Bring along a selection of storage containers with secure lids to store leftovers and prepped ingredients. These containers will help keep your food fresh and organised while on the road.
Don't forget the snacks: Stock up on grab-and-go snacks like granola bars, trail mix, dried fruits, and nuts. These provide quick energy during your travels and are handy for outdoor adventures.

Affordable and delicious campervan meal ideas

Get ready to tantalise your taste buds with these affordable and delicious campervan meal ideas.

Breakfast quesadilla

Start your day of exploration with a satisfying breakfast that will keep you fuelled up and ready for adventure. Here's what you'll need and how to make it:

Ingredients:

Tortillas
Eggs
Refried beans
Corn on the cob
Spinach

Method:

Cut the corn kernels from the cob.
Spread refried beans evenly on a tortilla.
Sprinkle the corn kernels, cheese, and spinach over the beans.
Place another tortilla on top to create a quesadilla.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the quesadilla until golden brown on both sides.
In a separate pan, fry an egg.
Once cooked, place the fried egg on top of the quesadilla.
Serve hot and enjoy your delicious breakfast quesadilla!

Grilled fish with salad

Fresh seafood, perfectly complemented by a vibrant green salad and charred asparagus – yum! This easy recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients that pack a flavour punch. To ensure the best seafood, stop by a fresh fish market as you travel.

Ingredients:

Your choice of fish
1 lemon, cut into wedges
Green salad
Bunch of asparagus
Butter

Method:

Fire up the barbecue and grill the asparagus until tender and slightly charred.
Add a generous helping of butter to enhance the flavour.
Season the fish with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Grill the fish over medium heat until it is cooked through and has beautiful golden-brown edges.
Serve the grilled fish alongside the salad and asparagus, garnishing with lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus flavour.

Pan-fried frittata

This easy frittata is a versatile and satisfying dish that showcases fresh vegetables and flavours. Using produce from a local farmers market, you can create a delicious meal in no time. Here's what you'll need and how to make it:

Ingredients:

2 eggs
Sliced mushrooms
Grated cheese
1 punnet of cherry tomatoes, halved
Shaved ham
Spinach
Cream
Sage

Method:

In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and a dash of cream until well combined.
Heat a pan over medium heat and fry the sage in butter until fragrant and crispy.
Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook until they turn golden brown.
Pour the egg mixture into the pan, ensuring it spreads evenly.
Sprinkle grated cheese, halved cherry tomatoes, shaved ham, and spinach over the eggs.
Cook the frittata on low heat until the egg is set, and the cheese has melted.
Carefully fold the frittata in half and slide it onto a serving plate.
Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh sage leaves and serve warm.

Grilled halloumi wraps

Indulge in a delightful combination of smoky grilled vegetables, creamy halloumi cheese, and refreshing salad greens. Here's what you'll need and how to prepare them:

Ingredients:

Tortillas
Asparagus
Capsicum
Eggplant
Cherry tomatoes
Sliced halloumi
Sliced red onion
Salad greens

Method:

Chop generous slices of eggplant and capsicum for grilling.
Fire up the barbecue and brush it with oil to prevent sticking.
Place the eggplant, capsicum, and asparagus on the grill and cook until they become tender and golden brown.
Grill the halloumi slices, giving them a beautiful char and a squeeze of lemon if desired.
Warm the tortillas on the grill or stovetop until they are soft.
Assemble the wraps by adding Greek yoghurt as a base, followed by the grilled vegetables, halloumi, sliced red onion, and fresh salad greens.
Roll up the wraps tightly, cut them in half if desired, and serve.

Pear and rhubarb crumble

Wrap up your day with a delectable and satisfying treat. This delicious crumble is the perfect way to warm up on a cold evening. Be sure to save some leftovers for breakfast!

Ingredients:

Shaved coconut
Flour
Rolled oats
Sliced rhubarb
Sliced pear
Cream

Method:

Preheat a pan over medium heat and add the shaved coconut, flour, rolled oats, and a knob of butter. Stir the mixture continuously until it turns a golden-brown colour. Set it aside to cool.
In the same pan, combine the sliced rhubarb and pear along with a dash of water and a sprinkle of sugar. Stir the mixture gently and allow it to stew until the fruits are soft and tender.
Sprinkle the prepared crumble mixture generously over the fruit.
Serve with a dollop of cream for a touch of richness.

Get ready to get cooking with Mighty

From budget-friendly breakfasts to tantalising desserts, the convenience of a well-equipped kitchen means cooking delicious meals on a road trip has never been easier. Ready to plan your own culinary adventure? Book your Mighty campervan online today and enjoy an unforgettable journey filled with stunning landscapes, incredible experiences, and mouthwatering meals

Frittata is a no-fuss camping recipe for any time of day. Similar to an omelette, a frittata is an easy dish using fresh veggies and eggs. The perk of cooking a frittata is that it can be served at room temperature. This makes them a perfect campervan dinner idea and snack to store in the fridge for later if you get peckish!