PHOTO: NATHAN SHIPPS VIA UNSPLASH

CREATE AN OUTDOOR KITCHEN SPACE

PHOTO: GETOUTWITHTHEKIDS.CO.UK

Even if you think you have a tent that can accommodate your culinary adventures, it is highly recommended that you put safety first, and set up your kitchen space outdoors, away from your tent. You don’t want to run the risk of a fire hazard, health hazard, or creating a place that tempts wildlife to come on in and investigate. So the first thing you’ll want to do is create a kitchen shelter, away from your tent. This can be done with a tarp shelter, either purchased as a kit, or DIY. This article from Get Out With The Kids has some great tips on setting up a tent shelter, and how to create a wind barrier, too.

COOKING SPACE

After you have your kitchen space determined and a shelter set up safely, you’ll need to add a stable and flat surface for prepping and cooking your meals. And unless you know already that where you’re going will have a surface for you, you should plan on bringing your own. A simple folding table can do the trick, or you can get one that also includes enclosed storage, which is great for storing your everyday kitchen items like plates, cups, and cooking utensils.

SANITATION SPACE

You’ll want to create a space that’s dedicated to cleaning up and sanitizing before and after meals, with a station for washing and rinsing dishes. This could be a separate table that’s created specifically for this purpose, with a sink or even two sinks. Or you can go the DIY route and easily build your own! Your camp sanitation space can be connected to a campsite water hookup, or you can connect to a portable water container. Don’t forget to bring potable water with you, or have a way to reliably filter your own.

COLDCREEK OUTFITTERS OUTDOOR WASHING TABLE

FOOD STORAGE

If you have a cooking table with built-in storage, you can use that storage area for your dishes, skillets and cook pots, and serving ware. But it is recommended that you store your food — both cold and dry goods — in separate, more secure containers. Dry goods can be kept in rubber totes with secure-fitting lids. Without access to power, cold foods can be kept in a traditional cooler (just add ice!), or a propane-powered fridge.

KITCHEN ESSENTIALS

Now that you have a framework for your cooking and cleaning spaces, you need to make sure you have the proper equipment and tools for effectively preparing meals. You don’t need to get the most expensive kitchen essentials, but you should make sure that they’re reputable and durable, so you don’t end up in a pinch without the proper tools. Here’s our checklist of recommended essentials for including with your camp kitchen

PHOTO CREDIT: DANIEL NORRIS VIA UNSPLASH

• 2-burner Campstove + Fuel (or the best portable grill)