How to Enhance Your RV’s Kitchen With a Few Simple Tips

 

One of the best feelings in the world is having complete freedom. That is something that an RV can bring you. When you have the right RV, you can travel anywhere you want because you have everything right there in your RV — no hotels necessary!

But that means you’ll need an RV with a full kitchen. This includes the right RV sinks, appliances, and cookware. This guide will cover some of the most important things to consider when enhancing, upgrading, or remodeling your RV’s kitchen, including how to find a new RV sink, and what you need to whip up a great meal as well!

How to pick the right RV sinks

In order to do most basic kitchen-related activities, you need a quality sink. Whether your RV is in need of an upgrade here due to age, or if you just want a bigger and better model that meets your needs, these tips will help.

When it comes to picking an RV sink, there are a few key factors at play. These include the size and layout of your RV, your personal preferences and style, and the type of material you want the sink to be made of. Here are some steps to follow when choosing an RV sink:

1. Measure the space where you plan to install the sink. It's important to choose a sink that fits properly in the available space. Measure the width, depth, and height of the area to ensure you choose a sink that fits comfortably.

2. Consider the layout of your RV. If you have a small RV with a compact kitchen, you may want to choose a smaller sink. On the other hand, if you have a larger RV with more space, you may be able to accommodate a larger sink.

3. Decide on the material you want the sink to be made of. Some common options include stainless steel, acrylic, and composite materials. Stainless steel is a durable and long-lasting option, but it can be prone to scratching and may require more maintenance. Acrylic is a lightweight and affordable option, but it may not be as durable as other materials. Composite materials are a mix of different materials and can offer a balance of durability and affordability.

4. Consider the style of the sink. Do you want a traditional drop-in sink or a more modern undermount sink? Do you want a single basin or a double basin? Think about the overall style of your RV and choose a sink that fits in with the rest of the decor.

Research different brands and read reviews. Look for a reputable brand that has a good track record for quality and customer satisfaction. Reading reviews from other RV owners can also be helpful in identifying any potential issues or concerns with a particular sink. With just a bit of planning, you can choose an RV sink that fits your needs and preferences and enhances the overall look and functionality of your RV kitchen.

Here at RV Upgrades we have a variety of sinks that will match most RV styles and just about any RV kitchen size, as well as a great selection of faucets and other items as well.

Essential RV Kitchen Appliances

When it comes to stocking your RV kitchen, there are certain essential appliances that you must have in order to make your RV cooking experience a success. These appliances will help you make delicious meals, save you time and energy, and make your RV kitchen a place you look forward to spending time in. Whether you’re a full-time RVer or a weekend warrior, the following list of essential RV kitchen appliances will help you make the most of your RV kitchen.

1. Microwave: A microwave is essential for RVers who are short on space and time. It’s a great way to quickly heat up leftovers, make popcorn, and even cook whole meals. Many RV microwaves come with a built-in exhaust fan and turntable, making it easy to evenly cook food.

2. Refrigerator: A good RV refrigerator is needed to keep your food cold and safe. It’s important to make sure that your RV refrigerator is the right size for your RV, as a too-large refrigerator can take up valuable space and a too-small refrigerator won’t be able to keep all your food cold.

3. Stove: A stove is a key appliance for any RV kitchen. Whether you’re making breakfast, lunch, or dinner, a stove will make it easy to cook your favorite meals as if you were back at home. Most RV stoves are two-burner models and come with a range top and oven, making it easy to bake, sauté, and more.

4. Coffee Maker: If you’re a coffee lover, a coffee maker is probably a necessity in your RV. Breakfast just isn’t the same without that first cup in the morning. If you want your RV to feel like home, make sure you have a proper coffee maker on board.

5. Toaster: A toaster is a great way to make quick breakfasts or snacks in your RV kitchen. Most toasters are small and compact, making them perfect for a small kitchen, as most RV kitchens tend to be.

7. Slow Cooker: These are perfect for making slow-cooked meals, soups, and stews. They are another appliance that is great for small areas, making them a nice fit for RV owners.

These are just some of the essential RV kitchen appliances that you should have in your RV kitchen. With these appliances, you can make delicious and healthy meals in your RV kitchen. Whether you’re a full-time RVer or a weekend warrior, these essential RV kitchen appliances will make your RV cooking experience a success.

Tips for cooking in an RV

So you have your RV sink and are ready to hit the road! There is nothing better than heading to a stunning campground at a beautiful park and cooking with a view of the forest or beach out your window.

Cooking in an RV can be a fun and enjoyable experience, but it does require some adjustments and considerations. Here are some tips for cooking in an RV:

1. Plan ahead and stock up on non-perishable ingredients. This will save you time and money and help you avoid making frequent trips to the store.

2. Use your space wisely. Make use of all available storage space, and invest in compact and multi-functional kitchen tools, such as a mini fridge, portable stove, and collapsible colander.

3. Keep it simple. Choose recipes that are easy to prepare and don't require a lot of ingredients. This will save you time and minimize the amount of dishes you have to wash.

4. Use your outdoor space. Consider cooking outdoors on a portable grill or camp stove. This will help keep the inside of your RV cool and reduce the amount of heat and cooking smells inside.

5. Use your microwave wisely. Your microwave can be a great tool for heating up leftovers or making quick meals.

6. Use a slow cooker or pressure cooker. These appliances are great for making hearty meals with minimal effort.

And now you have RV sinks to wash your dishes! Any questions about installing RV sinks? Reach out to us for any questions you might have on improving your RV kitchen and finding the right appliances and other important items that you need.

Best Food to Try in the United States When You’re Traveling

RVers love the freedom of changing your environment and exploring new places on a whim. When we think of RVing across the country, we often think of visiting national parks, exploring the great outdoors… But there’s another part of travel that can’t be ignored — the food! We have put together a list of some of the most iconic dishes to try while you visit each state.

Of course, make sure you have all the right RV parts you need to make a cross country trip. From appliances to lighting to bike carriers, we have all the RV parts you need to take on any journey or activity!

The Most Iconic Food Destinations in the United States

Every state has a nickname, a state bird, a logo… But every state also has food it’s known for! These are dishes or desserts the state specializes in, meaning it’s most definitely something you’ll want to try when you get there. Here are some of the most exciting!

Alabama: Chicken with White BBQ Sauce

Alabama is known for barbecue but not just any old sauce will do. Alabama created a creamy, mayonnaise-based white BBQ sauce that’s usually slathered onto chicken. This sauce is hard to find outside of Alabama, so you’ll want to try this out if you’re ever in this southern state.

Alaska: Salmon

Alaskans love salmon. It’s not hard to see why. This state has some of the best salmon in the country. Not only is salmon delicious here, but it’s a healthy superfood that’s always worth trying. Salmon is known for its abundance of omega-3 fatty acids.

Arizona: Chimichangas

Arizona has great Mexican food, from tacos to nachos. One of their most popular takes on Mexican food is the chimichanga, which was actually created by accident when El Charro Cafe’s chef dropped a burrito into the deep fryer in the 50s. Now, you’ll find restaurants all over Arizona serving this tasty, crunchy take on a Mexican staple.

Arkansas: Cheese Dip

Arkansas loves its bar food! You’ll find fried pickles drenched in ranch dressing and stringy, zesty cheese dip almost everywhere you go. If you are looking for comfort food, Arkansas has you covered (with butter).

California: Sushi

If you’re a fan of Japanese food, California has some of the best you’ll find outside of the country itself. Southern California, especially Los Angeles, has top notch sushi places with chefs and ingredients flown in from Japan, including expertly prepared rice, fresh, quality fish, and an authentic presentation. From revolving sushi joints to high end omakase, you’ll find just about every style of sushi for every budget, including some chains that are also found in Japan.

Connecticut: Pizza

When you think of pizza, you probably picture New York. But cities like New Haven, Connecticut are said to have some of the best pizza in the entire country. While you’ll find just about every style pizza, the most popular in CT is white clam pizza. This was originated in the 20s by Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana on New Haven’s historic Wooster Street. Connecticut pizza is revered for its chewy and charred crust, as well as its seafood-inspired toppings.

Florida: Cuban Food

Florida is home to some of the best Cuban food in the United States. Cuban food is inspired by Spanish cuisine with a touch of Caribbean flavors. Look for classics like ropa vieja, which is boiled and shredded beef cooked in a sauce with onion, bell peppers, bay leaves, and cumin, as well as Cuban sandwiches, which often have roast pork, cheese, and ham.

Georgia: Peach Cobbler

What can you expect from the Peach State? Georgia loves its peaches — and for good reason. Look for places selling homemade peach cobbler to satisfy your sweet tooth. Most will have a dollop of vanilla ice cream on the top, completing this nostalgic meal.

Idaho: Baked Potato

Idaho has tons and tons of potatoes. So anything potato is sure to be a hit, from mashed to fries. Baked potatoes are probably some of the best since they’re loaded with just about everything you can think of. The Pioneer Saloon has potatoes topped with steak, caramelized onions, sour cream, and cheddar cheese. There’s plenty of potato to go around.

Iowa: Corn

Potatoes are to Idaho as corn is to Iowa. Farmers all over the state have fields and fields of corn. You’ll find so many places serving fresh, sweet corn that you’re bound to have it a few times. Corn on the cob with butter is a classic that shouldn’t be missed. You will also find plenty of corn-related festivals in the summer!

Louisiana: Crawfish

Louisiana is known for its flavorful meals, from gumbo and jambalaya to its seafood dishes. You’ll most definitely want to try some fresh fish down in Louisiana, especially the craw fish. Not only will the crawfish be amazing, but the flavors will blow your mind.

Maine: Lobster Roll

You can’t go to Maine without eating lobster. It’s a sin. And the best way to enjoy lobster in Maine is by having a lobster roll. Maine is known for its fresh lobster and many places will be extra generous with the portions of this coveted sea creature. Putting this succulent meat in a perfectly toasted bun with a bit of butter will put you in heaven.

Maryland: Crab

If you want some of the tastiest crab dishes known to humankind, head to Maryland. You’ll find an abundance of crab entrees that are known around the world, like hefty crab cakes and thick clam chowder.

New York: Bagels

You can’t go wrong with a New York bagel. New York City has special tap water that’s coveted throughout the bagel-eating world. Other states will try to recreate the water to use when making their own bagels, hoping to get the same round, airy texture and satisfying taste. Get a bagel with lox and cream cheese for the full effect!

Wisconsin: Cheese

Get anything cheese in Wisconsin and you won’t regret it.

Ready to try out your next meal? Before you head out, check out your wishlist on our store to see if you have all the RV parts you need before checking out the Yelp reviews of that lobster shack up in Maine.

RV Kitchen Appliances and Cooking Accessories

Want to cook like a pro while you’re camped out in your RV? There are several essential RV kitchen appliances and cooking accessories that you may want to consider adding to your RV kitchen. Here are some suggestions:

1. Refrigerator: A small, compact refrigerator is essential for storing perishable items and keeping them fresh while you're on the road.
2. Stovetop: A small stovetop or range is essential for cooking meals in your RV. You may want to consider a propane stove or an electric stove depending on your RV's power setup.
3. Microwave: A microwave is a convenient appliance for heating up leftovers or defrosting frozen items - it’s also useful in a pinch for heating up sauces, melting butter, and performing other routine cooking tasks.
4. Slow cooker: A slow cooker is a great appliance for making soups, stews, and other slow-cooked meals, and can really help you whip up some tasty dishes while you’re on the road.
5. Electric griddle: An electric griddle is a handy appliance for making breakfast foods like pancakes and eggs.
6. Coffee maker: A coffee maker is a must-have for many people, and there are several compact models available that are perfect for RV use.
7. Pots and pans: You'll need a variety of pots and pans for cooking different types of meals in your RV.
8. Knives: A sharp knife is essential for chopping and preparing food.
9. Cutting board: A cutting board is a handy accessory for preparing food and protecting your countertops.

Have everything you need to embrace your inner foodie while traveling in your RV? Whether you plan on hitting America’s best food destinations or if you intend on cooking up a feast in your campsite, the right RV kitchen appliances, tools, and accessories are a must. Take a look through our catalog today to make sure you’re properly prepared!

Important Tips For Getting the Most Out of Your RV

 

Part of owning an RV is knowing how to take care of it. If you want to get the most out of your recreational vehicle, you need to obtain essential tools and accessories such as trailer tongue jacks, stabilizer jacks, and spare tires, and educate yourself on how to clean and maintain your RV as well.

In this article we’ll cover some of the basics so you can be prepared the next time you hit the road.

RV Care Tips

Let’s start with some important care tips that will ensure your RV is ready to go every time:

• Keep the exterior clean and waxed to protect the paint and prevent fading.
• Check the roof regularly for any signs of damage or leaks, and repair as needed.
• Test all systems (electrical, plumbing, etc.) regularly to ensure they are in good working order.
• Check and replace the batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.
• Store the RV properly when not in use, either in a garage or covered storage area.
• Empty the holding tanks and clean the black and gray water tanks regularly to prevent odors and clogs.
• Inspect the tires regularly and replace them if they show signs of wear or damage.
• Use a high-quality water filter to ensure clean, safe drinking water.
• Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule for all appliances and systems.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your RV stays in good condition and is ready for your next adventure.

Must Have Tools and Accessories for RV Owners

Proper care for your RV starts with having all of the right equipment and accessories on hand to care for it, keep it maintained, and prevent damage and issues from occurring in the first place. These essential items range from basic tools to RV-specific accessories.

It’s important to invest in these tools and other items if you intend on keeping your RV in top shape for years. Here are a few must-have accessories and tools for RV owners:

• A high-quality surge protector: This is important for protecting your RV's electrical systems from power surges and voltage spikes.
• Trailer-tongue jack: Used to lift and lower the front of an RV trailer.
• A tire pressure gauge: This is essential for maintaining the proper tire pressure on your RV.
• A set of good quality RV-specific jack stands: These will help support your RV when you need to change a tire or perform other maintenance tasks.
• A good quality water hose: This will allow you to connect to a water source and fill your RV's water tanks.
• A set of basic hand tools: This might include a hammer, pliers, screwdrivers, and a socket set.
• A good quality tool box: This will help you keep your tools organized and easily accessible.
• A portable generator: This can be useful in case of power outages or when you are in an area without hookups.
• A level: This will help you ensure that your RV is properly level when you are setting it up at a campsite.
• A good quality water filter: This will ensure that you have clean, safe drinking water while you are on the road.
• A set of good quality leveling blocks: These will help you level your RV when you are setting it up at a campsite.

Why Trailer Tongue Jacks Are Essential For RV Owners

An RV trailer tongue jack is used on the front of the trailer, at the base of the tongue. The jack is used to level the trailer when it is parked at a campsite, and it is also used to raise the front of the trailer off the ground when the trailer is being hitched or unhitched from a tow vehicle.

Trailer tongue jacks typically consist of a screw mechanism that is driven by a hand crank or electric motor. The screw mechanism is attached to a lifting arm, which is connected to the trailer tongue. When the jack is in use, the lifting arm is raised or lowered to raise or lower the front of the trailer.

RV trailer tongue jacks are an important part of the towing and setup process for an RV, and they are essential for ensuring that the trailer is properly leveled and secured when it is parked at a campsite.

Make Sure You Have Everything You Need For Emergency Situations

Anything can happen when you are exploring the outdoors or when you are on the road for long periods of time. Making sure your RV is properly stocked with emergency maintenance tools and first-aid items could be the difference between a successful trip and a lot of hassle.

• A first aid kit: This should include bandages, gauze, adhesive tape, scissors, tweezers, and any other essential items.
• A flashlight: This will be useful in case of a power outage or other emergency situation.
• A multi-tool: This can be useful for a variety of tasks, including cutting, sawing, and opening containers.
• A spare tire: It's a good idea to have a spare tire on hand in case you get a flat while on the road.
• A fire extinguisher: This can be used to put out small fires that may start in the RV.
• A portable power bank: This can be used to charge your phone or other electronic devices in case of a power outage.
• A supply of non-perishable food and water: It's a good idea to have a supply of non-perishable food and water on hand in case you get stranded or are unable to leave the RV for an extended period of time.
• A weather radio: This will allow you to stay informed about weather conditions and any emergency alerts that may be issued.

By having these items on hand, you'll be better prepared to handle any emergency situation that may arise while you're on the road.

Whether it’s important accessories, useful appliances, or anything else you might need for your RV, you’re in the right place. Take a look through our entire store and find just what you need to take care of your RV and get the most out of it on every adventure.