10 Smart Campervan Kitchen Fitout Ideas for Compact Living

By Vanish Campers – Brisbane | Sunshine Coast | Gold Coast
📞 Call 0412 870 132 | 🌐 vanishcampers.com.au

Designing a campervan kitchen that is compact yet practical is essential for comfortable van life. Whether you’re traveling through Brisbane’s suburbs, parked beachside on the Sunshine Coast, or camping in the lush hinterlands of the Gold Coast, a smartly designed kitchen fitout can transform your van into a functional, homely space.

At Vanish Campers, we specialise in custom van kitchen fitouts across Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, and Gold Coast, helping travellers enjoy the freedom of the road with the comforts of a fully-equipped kitchen. Here are 10 smart kitchen fitout ideas for compact living—perfect for Queensland adventurers.

A slide-out kitchen is ideal for small vans. Tucked neatly under a bed or bench, it extends outward for easy access and can even be used outdoors—perfect for those cooking at scenic Sunshine Coast campsites.

Why it works:  

• Maximises interior space

• Keeps cooking outdoors (less mess and heat inside)

• Great for beach and bush setups

🔧 Vanish Campers builds durable, weather-ready slide-out kitchens for clients across Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Sunshine Coast.

A combined stainless steel sink and stove unit saves precious benchtop space. Many come with a hinged glass lid that closes flat when not in use, creating extra work surface.

 Benefits:  

• Neat, all-in-one unit

• Ideal for 1–2 burner cooking

• Easy to clean and maintain

In small campervans, vertical space is your best friend. Use magnetic knife holders, spice racks, and upper cabinets to stay organised—especially helpful on bumpy Queensland roads.

 Ideas:  

• Overhead cupboards

• Magnetic strips for utensils

• Hanging baskets or mesh nets

Drawer-style fridges are a smart alternative to upright models. They slide out like a kitchen drawer, giving you easier access and more storage options above.

 Advantages:  

• Saves space

• Energy efficient for off-grid power systems

• Easier to access in tight areas

Need more prep space? Hinged or fold-out benchtop extensions can add usable work area without cluttering your van.

 Perfect for:  

• Compact van layouts

• Occasional cooking needs

• Folding down after meals

Modular fitouts are ideal for those who want flexibility. These units can be easily removed, rearranged, or used outside the van for alfresco cooking.

 Benefits:  

• Easily upgradable

• Lightweight and mobile

• Customisable for different van models

Free up space inside the van by mounting fresh and grey water tanks under the chassis. Pair with electric or manual pumps for efficient water use.

 Great for:  

• Extended off-grid camping

• Reducing clutter

• Eco-friendly water management

 We design water systems suited for long Queensland road trips—Sunshine Coast to Gold Coast and beyond.

Using lightweight cabinetry (such as marine ply or PVC board) helps improve fuel efficiency and reduces wear on your suspension—especially important for long hauls across SEQ.

 Materials to consider:  

• Marine-grade plywood

• Lightweight composites

Aluminum framing for drawers

Don’t overlook lighting! Soft, low-draw LED strips installed under cabinets or in drawers make night cooking safer and more enjoyable.

 Features:  

• Battery friendly

• Can be dimmable or motion-activated

• Adds a modern, clean touch

Cooking indoors? Ventilation is key. A powered roof vent or small 12V fan prevents steam buildup and keeps your space fresh.

 Ideal for:  

• Queensland’s humid climate

• Condensation control

• Smell and heat management

 Vanish Campers can install MaxxAir, Dometic, or custom fan systems suited for SEQ weather.

A thoughtfully designed campervan kitchen doesn’t have to be large—it just has to be smart. With these 10 fitout ideas, you can create a compact, stylish, and practical cooking space that makes life on the road feel just like home.

Whether you’re parked in Brisbane, on the Gold Coast, or road-tripping through the Sunshine Coast, Vanish Campers is here to help you build the perfect kitchen for your campervan lifestyle.

🔧 Ready to Build Your Custom Campervan Kitchen?  

Vanish Campers specialises in functional and stylish kitchen fitouts across:

✅ Brisbane
✅ Sunshine Coast
✅ Gold Coast

📞 Call us now on 0412 870 132
🌐 Visit vanishcampers.com.au
📅 Book your free fitout consultation today!