Kitchen Configurations:

[Scott Brady]

Most of us use an SUV or pick-up without a slide in camper, so cooking requires a lot of set-up and teardown.

One of my spring projects is to work on the cooking equipment and kitchen set-up in my truck. I have a few ideas floating around, but would love feedback from the rest of the group on what they have used successfuly:

From another thread (thanks Outbackamper):
"Great question and one that I still need to address. I am evaluating a few options, including having the stove on a slide so that it will slide out from the platform. I would also hard mount a 3lb. propane bottle in the storage area so that the stove was always connected.

I have addressed water, with the rear spout, but I need to get a basin configured. I will probably weld a frame that will mount to the rear demello bumper 1/4 panel protection.

I also intend to make a drop-down panel that mounts to the rear swing-out and will make an L shaped food prep station.

I am not sold on a stove yet, as most seem to destruct in short order. I do like my little Markel stove and use it for almost every meal."


Outback Kitchen Equipment Sites:

Outdoor Cooking (outdoorcooking.com) (http://www.outdoorcooking.com/)

Snow Peak: (http://www.snowpeak.com/) Light weight, high quality, expedition grade equipment

[cruiseroutfit]

I have a picture from the Moab vendor show of a killer "kitchen" setup... Not my cup of tea but a great effort & execution... Let me see if I can dig it up.

[OutbacKamper]

This is the configuration we use for 2 or more days in one spot:
http://community.webshots.com/myphotos?action=showPhoto&albumID=232683609&photoID=277015681&security=UhxbkY
We usually set it up under a 10'x10' screen house/gazebo
For quick meals, overnight stops, etc we just put the stove, cooler and one food box on a folding table under the camper awning, the other boxes are accessable from the back drivers side door.
This is the kitchen boxes in their stowed position where the back seat used to be:
http://community.webshots.com/myphotos?action=showPhoto&albumID=232683609&photoID=277014104&security=ILZlpx
This kitchen did not get much testing prior to our trip and although it works well when set up, it is a real pain to continually assemble and dismantle. OutbacKamper 2.0 will have a fold out or slide out exterior kitchen. I am looking for good ideas, suggestions and links.
Thanks
Mark

[cruiseroutfit]

Here they are...

[Scott Brady]

Kurt,

Those units were at SEMA, and were very impressive. Not sure of their ability to withstand the rigors of off-highway use. They are also 400lbs., which is much less of an issue for Mark than it is me.

I did like the unit though. Very cool ideas to incorporate... :coffee:

[Brian McVickers]

I'm going to the Outdoor Retailer Show at the end of the month. They always have a ton of this stuff so I'll keep my eye out and let you know if there is anything notable.

[Ursidae69]

Great topic idea. My kitchen is a currently a mess of crap in a large box. Not very efficient. I plan to make or buy a nice kitchen box that holds everything I need and that will hopefully open up that I can sit on the tailgate while I cook on the camp table. The old coleman stove I have works okay, but I'm always looking for better stove ideas.

A buddy of mine has an old disc off a plow that he welded legs onto. It works supurb for frying anything over an open fire. I plan to get one of those too. Grind it to clean bare metal, then season it properly, and it works as well as any cast iron skillet. The legs are removable too, so it stores compactly.

[BajaTaco]

Great topic. I hope to get some ideas and learn some tricks from others.

As many of you know, I work on a small scale when it comes to the mobile kitchen. I don't even usually bring a camp table on trips. I use a little "micro" table that only stands about 4" tall, along with a collapsable foot stool that doubles as a tiny table. The tailgate and a small cutting board is usually used for food prep. I use a backpack stove and small pots/pans. The upside to this is that it is much less weight to carry. The downside is that I have much less to work with. (which can be an upside too I guess) We still manage to have some pretty deluxe meals (the fridge helps a lot).

I guess the thing I would like to improve on the most at this point, is a nice storage box solution for some of my kitchen stuff. I keep the stove, utensils, bowls, condiments, and a few other things in the white/clear plastic drawer in the photo below - which keeps quite a bit of stuff handy on short notice. But I still have a kettle, pots, and pans, and misc. stuff that is kept in a soft-sided gear box, and some of it is a pain to get to. I want to make a better gear box for this particular stuff - that will keep all of the pieces more organized and easy to pull out. I am thinking about a Storm Case or similar.

http://www.bajataco.com/camper09.jpg

[awalter]

Scott,

On the next trip, you may want to look closer at my "camp box" that sits in my bed, right rear. It contains everything for simple easy use. Gormet meals require a little more gear.:box:

[Scott Brady]

Al,

You also have a very cool pot kit. Numerous sizes and even a stock pot for the unlucky lobster that crosses our path :)

I also really liked the single burner you were using. How long do those canisters last you?

[goodtimes]

Scott, I still think you need a service or utility bed on your truck. It would solve many of your storage needs. I am still considering one for my Dodge. On the service bed, replace the swing out doors with drop down doors that are sturdy enough to serve as a work counter, you could mount your gear in a easy to access manner (imagine Al's box mounted in the bedside, instead of inside the bed). setup/teardown would be virtually non-existant....just like cooking at home (without the walls and ceiling).

[awalter]

Al,

You also have a very cool pot kit. Numerous sizes and even a stock pot for the unlucky lobster that crosses our path :)

I also really liked the single burner you were using. How long do those canisters last you?

I really have no idea. I've had that stove for 3-4 years & have only gone thru 1 cannister. I also have rarely used it.

That camp box was originally made for my 69 Scout, which is in kind of retirement.

[GeoRoss]

My 'kitchen' consists of a 48qt Action Packer, ice cooler and one of those dinky roll up tables, 2 7 gal water jugs, and a small tupperware container.

Action Packer: two burner Coleman propane stove, gas canisters, propane lamp, nested pot set, stove top espresso do-hinkus, paper towels and dry goods.

small tupperware: All cooking utensils, small bowls, matches, soap and sponge. The tupperware does double duty as a small basin for washing dishes.

Ice cooler: Beer, duh!

The action packer, cooler, water jugs and tupperware container fit in tightly in the back of the cruiser w/ the upright spare tire. They form the basal layer in packing. All other camping gear is in duffle bags on top of this basal layer.

When getting to camp I unload the gear bags, pull out the 'kitchen' and table. I use the rear gate of the cruiser for the water jugs. I can have the kitchen set up and running in <10 minutes. Assuming everything is clean and the food put away, I can pack everything up equally quick. I also have access to several custom built 'chuck boxes' that holds all kitchen goods but no food and serves as a platform for the stove. I use this when I lead >4 people on a multi vehicle field trip. It is too big for just me alone.

The key is quick and easy access for loading and unloading. Much like a backpack on a backpacking trip, everything has its place and space is not wasted.

If I still had a truck, I would look for a way to incorporate the tail gate & maybe a long drawer that is ~1/3 the width of the truck bed that could be pulled out beyond the tail gate where the overhang is supported by legs. With in it all the necessary dry goods, stoves, pots/pans etc are stored. You then have an easy access, L-shaped kitchen. Throw in a tarp and it is all weather :D.
Ross

[DaktariEd]

Hey, Scott,

Santa was good to me this year and surprised (?) me with a Horizon Adventure Trailer for Christmas! :eek:

I've only had it out once so far, but I think it's been very well designed for offroad use.

Here's an image with some notations of a number of key features of the kitchen side as I see them. Oh, and there's an ARB freezer/fridge inside the trailer compartment!

There are many others as well. You'll just have to check them out in person sometime!

:D
Ed

http://www.geocities.com/daktaried/Horizon_8645B.jpg

[goodtimes]

Ed's kitchen built into the side of a truck would be cool. But for now, I think we should just have Ed do the cooking for the rest of us who apparently weren't as good as he was (I sure the heck didn't get anything that nice for Christmas---I must have been on the "naughty list").

[dbolton]

Scott,

You probably saw the link on the 4wdtrips board to bluesky:

http://www.blueskykitchen.com/

The company I guide with built several of boxes similiar to these (slightly less complicated) for cooking in camp for clients. I'm in the process of building one myself. I'll post up some photos.

Incidentally, this is really a great board. The build on my 02 Tacoma is coming along (thanks to some great help and feedback from bajataco - thanks Chris!).

Dan

[OutbacKamper]

Here is a link to some photos of kitchens I have seen in Australia:
http://community.webshots.com/myphotos?action=viewAllPhotos&albumID=546424879&security=xVWrWq
Cheers
Mark

[paulj]

I've been using Rubbermaid Roughneck boxes for my camping gear for years. One 8 gallon box holds the food, another has stove (currently a Trangia alcohol), pans and plates. When experimenting with dutch oven cooking I've added a third.

These boxes are cheap, sturdy, stacking, and rain proof. The 8 gallon size is easy to carry even when full of dense items. I have to arrange pots and such carefully to make use of the limited height, but they fit under my sleeping platform.

If you can find them, the commercial Rubbermaid version, Brute, is even stronger.

Boxes like this are most useful when the camp site already has a table. Add a tarp (my favorite is a Kelty Noah 12 wing), and the kitchen is complete.

I've experiemented with tables for a undeveloped campsite, but haven't found anything that is compact enough to be worth the storage space. If bugs aren't a problem, a tailgate (possibly with an extension) is an option.

paulj

[Scott Brady]

Paul,

This one looks like an interesting solution: (http://www.campingworld.com/browse/skus/index.cfm?deptID=&subOf=70,4&skunum=19858)
http://www.campingworld.com/ts-cwi/images/products/primary/19000/19858.jpg?hei=250&cvt=jpeg

Several in our group use these:

Aluminum: (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B000AYF9PM/002-3581502-1692028?v=glance)
http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B000AYF9PM.01._AA280_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg

I have used one of these rolling ones for about six years: (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B000212TL0/sr=1-16/qid=1138112141/ref=sr_1_16/002-3581502-1692028?%5Fencoding=UTF8&n=3375301&s=sporting-goods&v=glance)
http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B000212TL0.01-A271MW3H35GQF2._AA261_SCLZZZZZZZ_.gif




Stoves:

Here is the one like Al has: (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B000BVC4NY/sr=1-2/qid=1138111881/ref=sr_1_2/002-3581502-1692028?%5Fencoding=UTF8&n=3400931&s=sporting-goods&v=glance)
http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/B000BVC4NY.01-A1MGLAH4FJRY2P._AA280_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg

[Scott Brady]

For extended remote camping (where you stay in one place for 4-5 days or longer, I use this outfitter kitchen.

http://www.expeditionswest.com/equipment/camping/kitchen/03-28-04%20016.jpg

[Scott Brady]

Ed,

Congrats on the Adventure Trailer. It is the most robust and comprehensive trailer I have found on the market. Martin and Mario are excellent people to work with too.

Look forward to seeing it on the trail!

Here is a little more info on the trailers (http://www.adventuretrailers.com/Horizon/Horizon.html)

[Mlachica]

Paul,

This one looks like an interesting solution: (http://www.campingworld.com/browse/skus/index.cfm?deptID=&subOf=70,4&skunum=19858)
http://www.campingworld.com/ts-cwi/images/products/primary/19000/19858.jpg?hei=250&cvt=jpeg

Several in our group use these:

Aluminum: (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B000AYF9PM/002-3581502-1692028?v=glance)
http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B000AYF9PM.01._AA280_SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg


Scott,

I have one of these and love it, but a few trips ago one of the plastic hooks on the table top part broke. It still works great but if more were to break :confused:

[cruiseroutfit]

For extended remote camping (where you stay in one place for 4-5 days or longer, I use this outfitter kitchen.

http://www.expeditionswest.com/equipment/camping/kitchen/03-28-04%20016.jpg

Very cool.. custom? Specs? Source?

[Ursidae69]

The Cabelas Camp Kitchen is good for trips where you stay in one place for a long time. I have one, but rarely use it. It was a Xmas gift.

http://www.cabelas.com/products/Ccat20112.jsp

http://www.cabelas.com/cabelas/en/content/Item/51/54/50/i515450hz02.jpg

[VikingVince]

I too am redesigning my kitchen...both inside and outside cooking...I'm seriously considering changing one side of my built-ins in the truck bed to a small counter with a small sink (12v water pump/5-6 gallon water tank refillable from other water I carry) and single or double propane burner).

I've been meaning to design and make an outside kitchen box for when I want to cook outside...just haven't gotten around to it.

Re the butane single burner like Al has...I went back and forth before the Baja trip on whether to buy one of those or the Coleman single burner. I opted for the Coleman (the units are basicall the same size; however, the Coleman takes up a little more table top use when cooking because of the detachable brass arm that goes out to the side attached propane cannister) unit because I carry portable propane cannisters anyway. So I didn't want to have to shop for and carry two types of fuel...plus, generally speaking, propane cannisters are more availabe/easier to find than butane. (at least in the stores I've been in) Cooking time on both units is 2-3 hours. What I like about these single units is that the flame is more adjustable, i.e. you can get a steady low flame for simmering

[paulj]

The butane hotplate type of stove is one of the safest designs for use inside or in confined spaces. In the US they still have some sort of 'not for indoor personal use', but are widely used indoors in Asia. I bought one initially for use on a small sailboat, where stability is an important consideration. Now I mostly use it for at-the-table cooking at home.

I imagine it would also be a good choice for tailgate cooking in Arizona and Baja. But butane is a poor fuel for cold weather.

paulj

[Scott Brady]

Very cool.. custom? Specs? Source?

It is made by a company in La Mirada, CA called Field Products (http://www.campinstuff.com/default.tpl?action=full&cart=11381253578241431&--eqskudatarq=312)

The site does not show my model anymore, which is an ultra HD outfitter version. They do have a new and lighter model as shown on the link above.

http://www.campinstuff.com/productgraphics/kitchen.jpg

[cruiseroutfit]

"Counter" space is the #1 thing I have found I am lacking... The tailgate of my trailer has always served as the cutting board, counter, etc. But that doesn't work too well when you are trying to get gear in & out as well. I carry a small 3'x5' folding table in the trailer, it is great, but I need to find a way to store it so that it can come out first, not last (currently stored on bottom of trailer).

Here are a couple shots of the countertop I was working on for my trail trailer... The idea is to add some hooks of some sort so that it can hang freely from all sides of the trailer (or my Landcruiser), giving a dedicated cutting board/counter top area versus using the tailgate for everything...

[BajaTaco]

Here is a link to some photos of kitchens I have seen in Australia:
http://community.webshots.com/myphotos?action=viewAllPhotos&albumID=546424879&security=xVWrWq
Cheers
Mark

Mark, FYI - the webshots links that you have been posting do not work. Is an account required?

[cruiseroutfit]

It is made by a company in La Mirada, CA called Field Products (http://www.campinstuff.com/default.tpl?action=full&cart=11381253578241431&--eqskudatarq=312)

The site does not show my model anymore, which is an ultra HD outfitter version. They do have a new and lighter model as shown on the link above...

Not a bad option for $130... stores small, takes just a few minutes to setup I presume?

[Scott Brady]

I imagine it would also be a good choice for tailgate cooking in Arizona and Baja. But butane is a poor fuel for cold weather.

paulj

That is good to know Paul. Learn something new everyday.

If you have time, tell us more about your sailboat

http://expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?p=10173#post10173

[Nullifier]

Scott not sure what you currently have just inside the tial gate but how about one of those tuffy jeep pull out drawer addemblies. They have good gasket to keep out dust, and should hold all your stoves utensils etc. Plus you could install a sheet of cutting board to the inside of your tail gate to prepare food. This may be a beter set up for trips on the move since setting up kitchens can be an afair.

[Scott Brady]

Not a bad option for $130... stores small, takes just a few minutes to setup I presume?

I have not used their new version. My unit takes about 8-10 minutes to set up. the big issue is weight (about 60lbs.)

[cruiseroutfit]

I have not used their new version. My unit takes about 8-10 minutes to set up. the big issue is weight (about 60lbs.)

Wow, thats almost double the newer unit (35lbs). How do you like the provided bag?

[Scott Brady]

I am not sure if it is the same bag now, but the one for my unit is a heavy canvas and has a shoulder strap and thick handles.

I always make sure the unit is really strapped down, as if it got loose, it would destroy everything around it. :gunt:

[cruiseroutfit]

I am not sure if it is the same bag now, but the one for my unit is a heavy canvas and has a shoulder strap and thick handles.

I always make sure the unit is really strapped down, as if it got loose, it would destroy everything around it. :gunt:

Thanks for the info.. I'm really interested in that unit, a quick call netted me a bunch of info, they are very helpful on the phone. Thanks for the lead. :jumping:

[Scott Brady]

You bet Kurt. Did they mention if the outfitter version was still available? I often get questions about it.

[OutbacKamper]

Mark, FYI - the webshots links that you have been posting do not work. Is an account required?

Thanks Chris for the heads-up. I always seem to have problems linking to webshots. Can anyone recommend a better free internet pic host site?

Here is the kitchen album I was trying to link to:
http://community.webshots.com/album/546424879xVWrWq
Cheers
Mark
ps please let me know if this works
M

[Scott Brady]

Scott not sure what you currently have just inside the tial gate but how about one of those tuffy jeep pull out drawer addemblies. They have good gasket to keep out dust, and should hold all your stoves utensils etc. Plus you could install a sheet of cutting board to the inside of your tail gate to prepare food. This may be a beter set up for trips on the move since setting up kitchens can be an afair.

I have considered that option, but now with the water tank, I need the flexibility (I have a trunk the size of a Miata's now).

I will likely build a drop down platform off of the swing-out and then build in a slide out stove, etc. too.

Lots of great ideas here guys!

[Scott Brady]

Thanks Chris for the heads-up. I always seem to have problems linking to webshots. Can anyone recommend a better free internet pic host site?



Expedition Portal? I can provide you with a subdomain and your own directories.

[Nullifier]

Yea I thought you were tight on space back there. You could always go back to useing a cargo basket on the roof. I know you concern is the added wieght up high, however I would imagine on long expeditions you are prudent and drive more conservatively. You could also use it for carring the lighter items such as first aid, recovery(minus chain of course), nonrefrigerated foods, etc. A couple of storm/pelican cases and you would be set. for security you could permanently mount them to the basket by using some u bolts to fasten them to the rack. You would of course have to drill holes in the bottom but it would make sure your boxes wouldn't get ripped off. I know the pelican cases have a pad lock hole in them if you were leaving the truck in a marginal area.

I'm sure you have already contemplated this but I thought I would throw it back out to you. I would think that a wider cargo rack then you had previously would make a big difference in ease of use. The mega warrior basket from yakima is a perfect fit for the roof of a double cab. It is exactly the size of the roof.This makes for easy access by standing on the slider, since you do not have to reach way in. Just another thought.

[offroad_nomad]

Right now my kitchen revolves around my Jetboil (http://www.jetboil.com/)

http://www.kk.org/cooltools/archives/jetboil.jpg

http://thehowzone.com/how/Jetboil

[Scott Brady]

You are not alone Ian... Everyone seems to be exceedingly happy with them. :luxhello:

[offroad_nomad]

We were conducting a winter survival training in the mountains with an overnight emergency bivy (sans tents) in 20 deg temps. It was great to put out my Jetboil and cook up some food and hot Mocca for my teammates.


You are not alone Ian... Everyone seems to be exceedingly happy with them. :luxhello:

[OutbacKamper]

Expedition Portal? I can provide you with a subdomain and your own directories.

Scott;
I have sent a pm
Thanks
Mark

[blupaddler]

Robin, the Canadian driving the Aluminum bodied FJ60 in Baja had some good ideas for kitchen set-up. He had two plywood pieces that slid along the floor of the rear of the Cruiser that pulled out at camp. They then hooked up a pole underneath the piece of plywood that would stabilize the pull-out.



I have been thinking that when I build my drawer system to have a top put on one of the pullouts. This would then act as a kitchen type area.


:camping:

[Scott Brady]

One of the items I logged from the last trip was knife storage.

These are slick: http://www.lamsonsharp.com/lamproduct_storage.html

http://www.lamsonsharp.com/newimages/hndl_10111s.jpg

I was also looking for stronger/more reliable ways of storing dry goods, spices, etc. This is a great solution:

Nalgene, Color, Lexan, Screw Top (http://www.nalgene-outdoor.com/store/subcategory.asp?categorysubcategorycode=44)
http://www.nalgene-outdoor.com/store/images/subcategory/Jars_Color_Lexan_Round_Screw_Cap.jpg

[upcruiser]

Wow, some pretty interesting setups posted here. I tend to keep things on the keep it simple basis. I use my back packing pots and some extra pans along with my whisper lite stove. I don't drag around any extra tables or structures with the exception of a couple of light fold up camping seats. For Christmas this year my father got me a pretty cool small Coleman gas grill that can't be more the 13" across. I'm pretty excited to try it out. The passenger side rear door on my 80 is how I access the area under the bed where I keep food and cooking supplies. I often use the rear gate or the available rock for cooking and preparing food on.

[Scott Brady]

I am very curious of the traditional African bush kitchens. What stoves are used, tables, cookware, etc.?

I would love to see a few pictures, etc.

Is there traditionally a central cook tent/set-up?



also, I have added a few links to the first post

[60seriesguy]

Scott, do a search for "potje"!

[Brian McVickers]

Snow Peak www.snowpeak.com has some great new camping kitchen solutions.

[Mike S]

Scott

This whole kitchen requirements issue is one that is in constant flux, but I have a couple of suggestions...

1. Assemble a list of what you know you need. The hardest things to manage and rememer aren't the stove and cooking kit, but things like matches, can and bottle openers, pot holders, propane hose fittings, salt & pepper shakers, lantern mantles, batteries, pliers, cutting utensils, silverware...

2. Assemble the actual items. Figure out a way to organize them in an easily assessable and easily stored way. I built a drawer system that is removeable from my kitchen box and is about 24" X 14" X 12" with four drawers.

3. Develop a work area that is dedicated to meal preparation. I use the drop down front of my kitchen box, which holds the stove (Aluminum/stainless by Camp Chef), grill, drawers of small items, plates, cups, etc.

the kitchen sits on the tail gate of my cruiser or the trailer. It stays packed and organized at all times. When I need an item that I don't have in the box, I buy one and add it to the inventory.

All my camping gear is stored in the trailer. I hate packing (it reveals how distracted and scatter brained I really am) and unpacking (which reveals how lazy I really am). :D

Just a thot.

http://www.hunt101.com/img/351140.JPG

[Scott Brady]

Mike,

I really like your cook box. Well thought out. If I remember, you enjoyed woodworking, and it shows.

Tell me more about that cool pot set on the right :):lurk:

[paulj]

With a few modifications you could enter that trailer box into a chuck wagon competition. Where do you keep the medicinal whisky? :gunt:

http://www.lonehand.com/images/recipe5.gif

[VikingVince]

Mike,

Very nice kitchen box...I've been meaning to do something like that for some time now and still haven't gotten around to it.

I went to CampChef website and looked at their products...some nice stuff. I saw the stove that you have. You mentioned a grill...did you get one of the Campchef grills or are you adapting some other grill to the stovetop? In your pic, I saw a grill on top of the stove but it didn't look like any of the Campstove models. Thanks

[Brian McVickers]

An interesting selection of products at
www.gsioutdoors.com
including a full kitchen setup, lots of coffee options and even a camp fire pressure cooker!

[paulj]

I have a variety of GSI pans and dishes. Their hard anodized wok fits nicely on my Trangia stove. Their two piece 'boiler' set is a nice compact pair for use with a small stove. One of these days I may get one of their anodized dutch ovens. Their lexan and plastic bowls and plates fit compactly in my cook gear box, and are easy to clean.

They've had a microtable for some time, and now have added a taller 'macro' table.

I can't find it right now, but I've also seen a lexan coffee grinder.

Their product line is an interesting mix of enamelware (probably from Mexico), Chinese copies of lexan dishes, anodized pots, and a variety innovative items.

paulj

[Brian McVickers]

The coffee grinder fits right on top of the french press. Great idea but when I played with it in person it seemed as if it did not lock down and you had to hold it in place. I could have been using it wrong, it seems surprising that it would not lock on.

My favoite of thier products is a hand blender that you can bolt on to a ball mount arm and mount it into your hitch reciever. If you can make ice in your freezer you can have tasty frozen adult beverages!:beer:
I used to have a 12v blender that I used on my boat for just this purpose but I think the bit of labor involved in the hand version would make the drinks taste even better!!

[BMAN]

...My favoite of thier products is a hand blender that you can bolt on to a ball mount arm and mount it into your hitch reciever. If you can make ice in your freezer you can have tasty frozen adult beverages!:beer:
I used to have a 12v blender that I used on my boat for just this purpose but I think the bit of labor involved in the hand version would make the drinks taste even better!!

I've been watching closely at my local goodwill stores for a good used older blender to pilfer for an air powered unit in the 60. A small 90 degree die grinder with a modified1/4" drive extension in it, a little air from the York and... voila! Instant slurpee machine!

[Mike S]

Mike,

I really like your cook box. Well thought out. If I remember, you enjoyed woodworking, and it shows.

Tell me more about that cool pot set on the right :):lurk:

Thanks, I knocked this together right after I finished the trailer. I thought it looked kind of unfinished and funky, but the idea works well. The section with 4 drawers slides out as a separate unit so that it can be used wherever needed.

The cook kit is a bit of self defense. I have never found a camping cook kit that you can cook a decent meal on, so I went to Cosco and bought a 16 piece anodized nonstick aluminum cookset. I sorted through it for the right combination of goodies and sort designed the box around that and the stove. Nonstick cookware is essential when camping with limited water because it is really easy to clean and keep ready for use.


Where do you keep the medicinal whisky?

Paul, there is a place for EVERYTHING. Especially some as essential as whisk...er, medicine. :rolleyes:


You mentioned a grill...did you get one of the Campchef grills or are you adapting some other grill to the stovetop?

VV - the stove is the Camp Chef Riverrunner. All stainless and aluminum, 14 pounds, and it kicks ***** on any other propane stove. :victory: I highly recommend this stove.

The grill is a stainless grill that I picked up at REI, I think, or some other camping good store. It is about 16"X11" with legs that swing down. This is for use over goals with birds, trout, steaks, etc. Cleans easily.

Mike

[calamaridog]

I like Mikes box. Brings back good memories. When I was a Scout, each Patrol had their own box. My Dad and some of the other parents made them and outfitted them.

The "Patrol boxes" would support 10 scouts for multiple days. Yes, they were heavy! Took 4 scouts to unload and set up.

The boxes had the following features (from memory):

2' wide by 5' long
high grade 1/2" plywood with steel reinforcement
top loading, top has laminate and doubles as counter top
legs store in box


Each box had the following items (from memory):

Coleman Stove
Propane
Lantern
Dutch Oven
Pots and pans
Dry goods and spices
Wash basin

[DaktariEd]

I like Mikes box. Brings back good memories. When I was a Scout, each Patrol had their own box. My Dad and some of the other parents made them and outfitted them.

The "Patrol boxes" would support 10 scouts for multiple days. Yes, they were heavy! Took 4 scouts to unload and set up.




Ha! We had one, too! But our group (the Senior Patrol Leader (uhhh...me) and "cronies") built our own. The only one in Southern AZ at the time (60's - early 70's).

We had a 3" deep top and front panels that opened to reveal shelf and storage space, cooking utensil storage, etc. The countertop featured a sink and a hand pump for water!

Got several awards and recognition for our effort and result...

But it was soooo heavy! :eek:

Great times with the Scouts...
Ed

[Scenic WonderRunner]

The Kitchen thread had been dead for way too long.....so I thought I would Revive it!


Show us Yours............!!!!!!!!!!!!!



Here is my simple Kitchen.........

My Cooler is right behind the Coleman Stove.....under the Coleman Heater.

I can be packed up and ready to roll in the morning in 5 minutes!

http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i156/ScenicWonderRunner/2006_0919Summerinthesanjuans0060.jpg


http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i156/ScenicWonderRunner/2006_0919Summerinthesanjuans0122.jpg

[DesertRose]

This is copied from a post in another section - we're planning this soon as finances and time allow:

Here's what I'm visualizing for the back of my 2000 Tacoma - 2 slideout platforms (not drawers) on which we can secure our camping equipment in such a way as to have a nearly instant kitchen/staging area, and have easy access to gear/bedding storage boxes up toward the cab.

The Accurides seem to be the best bet so far - strength, length, mounting options.

Call me a nerd for making these schematics, but what else was I to do stuck at the airport for 5 hours - work?!

The size of the images came out a bit small but I think you can get the point. The Chuck Box is a classic "chuckwagon" wooden box for holding all our silverware, plates, glasses (martini fixings), and cookware etc. - it has a fold-down front with cutting board. Jonathan made it for me. We also have a custom stainless steel 15 gallon water tank with baffles that is for the FJ40 but Jonathan had it made so it fits the Taco, too - (see the thread at http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1852&highlight=water+tank


http://www.jandrhanson.com/rh/truckbed3.jpg

http://www.jandrhanson.com/rh/truckbed4.jpg

[DesertRose]

And some links to cool chuckboxes, plus photos of our now 20-year-old one!


Our chuckbox, on the tailgate of a friend's Toyota:

http://www.jandrhanson.com/rh/chuckbox4.jpg

http://www.jandrhanson.com/rh/chuckbox1.jpg

http://www.jandrhanson.com/rh/chuckbox2.jpg

http://www.jandrhanson.com/rh/chuckbox3.jpg

Shelves are lined with cork, and the plates and big cooking utensils are secured on the far left with bungee cord.

Meanwhile here are some links for others' plans for chuck boxes or "patrol boxes" - one from the Boy Scouts of America.

http://www.troop168.net/forms/patrolboxa.htm

http://www.troop168.net/forms/images/PatrolboxBicon.gif
http://www.blueskykitchen.com/
http://www.blueskykitchen.com/images/page_images/BSK_outfit_web.jpg

[gjackson]

Roseann, oh, sorry, Nerd,

:rolleyes:

How much does your chuck box weigh? Are you plannning on bolting (or otherwise securing) it to the slide out deck? What are you planning on using for the light green storage containers in your sketch? Always looking for new ideas.

And BTW, you are not the only one to draw up plans for your truck while stuck at the airport!! My journal is full of crazy idea sketches!

cheers

[bigreen505]

Roesann,

What about making drawers with a slide-out platform on top?

[DesertRose]

Roseann, oh, sorry, Nerd,:rolleyes:


Totally true - and I also have an iBook in my kitchen :sombrero: - now that's an uber-nerd.



How much does your chuck box weigh? Are you plannning on bolting (or otherwise securing) it to the slide out deck? What are you planning on using for the light green storage containers in your sketch? Always looking for new ideas.

Weight: I'm only guessing here - it's now put away and I lack the motivation to dig it out, even for you, Graham! Without anything in it, maybe 12-15 lbs? Full of stuff, probably closer to 30. Nothing in it was chosen for light weight - heck, I just replaced the Lexan silverware with an older set of stainless - it's just nicer - and I have glass martini ware . . . ! I can just barely handle it myself but not lift it very high.

Securing it: All the items on the platforms will either by secured by webbing straps (note in the pictures there are still black climbing webbing straps with Fastex buckles; we used those to snap the chuck box into place on top of a carpet kit way back when we had the Wildernest - I'll probably revive the idea to easily attach to the platform).

Storage boxes: to start, we have a set of those inexpensive plastic bins with 2-part hinged lids, but what I really want are the German Zarges aluminum boxes :drool:
http://www.army-technology.com/contractor_images/zarges/3-K470_Kistenstapel.jpg

Zarges even makes these spiffy containers with rollers, in case I want to mount my own missile (though I'd have to have it custom painted - the OD just doesn't go with the zebra motif:
http://www.army-technology.com/contractor_images/zarges/5-Raketenbehalter.jpg

A girl just can't be too careful camping alone.

:ar15:

[DesertRose]

Roesann,

What about making drawers with a slide-out platform on top?

I just don't like drawers really - too limiting for what I want. I would rather have things in bins that can moved or changed - a drawer pretty much stays the same size once configured. And inevitably, some new item I want to put in that dang drawer is .25" too long!

And in a pinch, I can take all the things off one platform side and sleep on it. If I raised the bed any more, it would be really claustrophobic to me if I had to sleep in it.

[Tucson T4R]

Got my new King Kamper out for it's maiden voyage so I had to revive this thread. Here's my kitchen. The stove even has a broiler so we broiled salmon and broke it up in a white sause with wine, capers, and green onions and had it over pasta.

http://i103.photobucket.com/albums/m125/bgarland40/07%20Richmond%20Basin/RichmondBasin07049.jpg

[mightymike]

I'm wondering if you guys who cook on your tailgates ever camp in bear country?

[seth_js]

I'm wondering if you guys who cook on your tailgates ever camp in bear country?

I do. If I'm using my grill, then it's on the tailgate. If i'm just using my single burner, then it's usually on the ground or on this little aluminum foldup table.

http://seth.phizz.net/adventures/black_river_6-23-06/images/imgp0608.jpg

:p

[cinemakatie]

I have before. Last summer I was in the Pennsylvania Laurel Highlands area and we used a grill. It creeps me out though...I keep expecting a bear to wander out of the woods salivating for my burger...and me!

Katie

[pskhaat]

Dude, that Kamper gettup is sick! Very nice.

[Mlachica]

Got my new King Kamper out for it's maiden voyage so I had to revive this thread. Here's my kitchen. The stove even has a broiler so we broiled salmon and broke it up in a white sause with wine, capers, and green onions and had it over pasta.


Wow, very impressive. Let's see some more pics! like pre/during setup

[sleeoffroad]

More pics of a King kamper kitchen. S&T 2006 using a Coleman hot water on demand system.

http://www.sleeoffroad.com/trails/california_2006/california_06_0034.jpg
http://www.sleeoffroad.com/trails/california_2006/california_06_0004.jpg
http://www.sleeoffroad.com/trails/california_2006/california_06_0032.jpg

If anyone is interested, we are selling our demo unit at a pretty good discount.

More pictures of the S&T Trip here

http://www.sleeoffroad.com/trails/california_2006/california_06.htm

[Tucson T4R]

Wow, very impressive. Let's see some more pics! like pre/during setup


I didn't take any in progress shots but here is the thread where I posted the pics I do have.

http://expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=2398&page=4

You can also see them at kingkampers.com

[offroadchef]

OK I want one now....

[blupaddler]

I got to poke around the Kamper at SnT, that thing is amazing!!! Even the boss liked it. :D
I may look to go that way in the future.






If anyone is interested, we are selling our demo unit at a pretty good discount.

I would be afraid to know. 1 for the temptation, 2 b/c the price is probably too good to pass up.
:friday:

[Desertdude]

I should learn by now to park next to Christo more often... :)

I have seen it in person on many events, that unit is deluxe and the chicks dig the comfort :bowdown:

[mightymike]

Has anyone seen this in person yet? From Kelty.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v652/jeeppics/basecamp_bintoboxmerch.jpg

Looks kind of like a soft-sided chuuck box. I've always had good luck with Kelty products in the past. Their www.keltybasecamp.com website had some other car-camping items as well.

[Lost Canadian]

Has anyone seen this in person yet? From Kelty.

It's a good product. Typical Kelty quality. It is like a soft-sided chuck box, but it's lighter and more portable which I like.
http://i98.photobucket.com/albums/l242/adventurenorth/Misc%20Stuff/Kelty005.jpg
http://i98.photobucket.com/albums/l242/adventurenorth/Misc%20Stuff/Kelty002.jpg
http://i98.photobucket.com/albums/l242/adventurenorth/Misc%20Stuff/Kelty001.jpg

[Bergger]

I looked at one last week and it was nice but I still prefer a hard sided chuck box. I ended up getting one of these from Sportsmans Warehous.

http://cdn.llbean.com/products/sporting_gear_apparel/40283/images/M40283_Blue.jpg

It's obviously much heavier that the Kelty product but it carries a lot of crap including my stove. Even though it's plastic it seems very durable.

[shawkins]

I looked at one last week and it was nice but I still prefer a hard sided chuck box. I ended up getting one of these from Sportsmans Warehous.

http://cdn.llbean.com/products/sporting_gear_apparel/40283/images/M40283_Blue.jpg

It's obviously much heavier that the Kelty product but it carries a lot of crap including my stove. Even though it's plastic it seems very durable.
Ive looked for those numerous times at SW and they never seem to have them! I really want one!

Does anywhere else carry them?