Van Life 101: How to Cook When Living in a Van

[@Cisnell70]

I'm so tired of paying half of my monthly disability check just for a small tiny apartment where my neighbors are not always nice. I'm now educating myself on living a "gypsy life" and I'm thinking to start out a 2 room cabin tent would be my best option, with emergency sleeping being in my car. I love travel, always have, and would like to finish my life exploring our amazingly beautiful nation!

[@62WILDCAT]

Me too. I could start in a tent. If I do that ,I'm thinking to ranch in Arizona that Bob did the video on , for the Winter. I'd find a van to make comfortable then to travel in higher elevations for summer. My car is a Toyota convertible ,so I'm not sure about sleeping in it.

[@skipperrussell2025]

I hear you. I've been thinking about the same thing. How are you doing now?

[@Cisnell70]

@@skipperrussell2025 I'm heading into a travel trailer and truck. Had the car/ tent for a year, a big ass dodge van for a year, and now I want the comfort of a trailer and the portability of a truck. I'm either moving up or not as comfortable as others in vehicles. (I really miss indoor plumbing!!)

[@servicedogchopper7613]

Started to live in a van in order to still care for the ex wife and kids. That's admirable. Having PTSD due to childhood neglect and abuse, I find that amazingly admireable. I don't know why so many tend to bad talk about you. You are here helping people still. So what if you make money from it! We all need to make money. You are helping people nonetheless. I find you an admireable and amazing man! Please know that!

[@servicedogchopper7613]

ICU8 12 Nope, didnt see that until you pointed it out. Doesnt the bottom of pans get dark once used? The small pan looks bran new and unused. But, he did say he does most cooking by microwave thus don't really use these pans. He said the copper one was part of a set. Maybe he used a different one at his mom's to know he loves them and then measured out the space on this one which then allowed him to learn how much it'll fit?

[@travelinmyblood]

Bob was just in Oregon spending time with his Mom, who is not well. He said she bought a set of them. I assume he then went out and bought one for himself, when he was leaving Oregon. Also, Bob is being filmed for various shows, and has indicated that he cleaned up his van for filming. Perhaps his pots needed to be updated. Teflon pots need to be replaced regularly. I don't know, but it's possible, so I try not to judge.

[@servicedogchopper7613]

travelinmyblood Agreed! I get sick of people not asking and just assuming crap about me and Chopper so i try not to do that to others!

[@rooterann3754]

Servie Dog In Training Chopper

[@darlenefitzgerald4371]

I took it SHE got a SET & Maybe Didn’t Need that Huge one & GAVE IT TO HIM

[@TwoMeander]

Debra here ... been cooking in my van ever since you went shopping with me in Flagstaff a few years ago to buy my first stove! Thank you, Bob.

[@e.s.l5861]

Haha I guess the World Wide Web is a small place, I am in flag right now

[@beebeemilo2024]

What kind of stove you are using?

[@joniloverin7343]

Been cooking inside with propane inside for many many yrs. and never think twice about it. I only wipe mine out with a bandana once usually and its good for me, I figure each time I cook it heats and kills anything in there. I use the spray bottle and its great. And thanks to your past videos, I now use a one burner to heat and cook! Thanks Bob, you surely made my life easier and one less item in my tiny space!

[@kathymack3791]

Hey Bob - great tips. As for the sanitizing spray, it's a bit pricey for what you get. After I bought a bottle of it (years ago), I started refilling if with my own mix. Basically a 10:1 ratio (10 parts water to one part bleach). A quart of pure bleach (be sure you don't get scented or the no splash type) will last you a very long time. And, the benefit of having a bottle of bleach around is you can make stronger solution - say for disinfecting your poo bucket or soaking white linens or clothing.

[@jomomma1512]

I am looking forward to one day being a nomad. I can never get rid of my cast iron! I'm an old school hill billy lady & we have all been taught that all gals need iron skillet for cooking due to monthly issues. Otherwise, we will need supplements & whatnot. Best to add the iron to our diets the old school way.

[@62WILDCAT]

I'll always keep my medium size cast iron skillet & small Dutch oven LE CRUSET ( cast iron coated with enamel )

[@carlarnett8634]

Funny you made this video I've been cooking this way in my pickup truck for the last several months. I modified my truck so I have a bed cabinets and a small table to cook and eat on. I have one of those little cheap Coleman coffee pot burner for my stove. Anyway I seen you really liked the copper cooking pan well Walmart has a copper panni maker basically two small pans clamp together and that thing make great grilled cheese or sandwiches. But after I clean the copper pans I have I put a dab of olive oil on them and spread with a paper towel. This helps protect the pans finish and also makes clean up a lot easier. Also thanks for all the videos I think I may even have my wife convinced after seeing your videos that we don't need a house payment anymore, she let me get a used camper and we are going to be moving into it soon. I've been used to this life for most of 8 years I haul campers from the manufacturer to the dealership so most of the time I'm living in my pickup truck. Well I'll quit rambling thanks again for all the videos.

[@marthakarcher4066]

,

[@Wildersport]

While I don't live in a van (yet), but I do camp, a LOT... I use a Texsport 6 pc family nesting cook set. 1qt pot with lid, 3 qt pot with lid, and a 6 qt pot with a convertible lid, skillet. I also use cast iron. Cast iron double sided griddle, 12" dutch oven, and 10" skillet. Serves all of my cooking needs fantastically.

[@louisemissouri4410]

Bacteria can not live without moisture. That's why wood cutting boards are recommended as they dry out even in the cut marks, where plastic doesn't. I've cleaned with vinegar for years. Great info. Thanks Bob

[@louisemissouri4410]

@@chapter4travels its actually been proven. Moisture sits in plastic in the cracks along with food particles for far longer. Its why chefs use mainly wood.

[@asad5067]

i remember CSPI and nutrition action talking about this.

[@serenakoleno9338]

Yes, I agree, got a great medium size bamboo board from Aldi's and love it. I knew a chef who ranted against restaurant rules that mandate plastic instead. It is not healthy to use. And dulls knives. If you do use them, clean with baking soda and vinegar or buy a spray bottle of peroxide at dollar tree. You can take a blade and periodically scrape excess plastic from cuts off. My plastic boards are badly stained. If stains get in, why not bacteria? Wood board can be sanded.

[@SB_whatevers]

@@serenakoleno9338 plastic doesn't dull knives, bamboo does. Bamboo is a grass so it has silica within its structure, which makes it incredibly hard. This is why bamboo is able to grow so tall. Silica is like glass, so it damages/scratches knife edges. Plastics are soft...very soft and this is why when you use a knife on plastic, you make gouges in it.

[@carolthacker7776]

Instead of buying Pam try mixing up your own spray oil. Use 1 cup of water to 1/4 cup of your favorite oil in a spray bottle. It works just as well and doesn't have all the additives as the spray cans, it's also a lot cheaper.

[@melissahoffman4687]

My family and I have the same ceramic coating copper looking pan. I love that it mimics a pot and pan all in one. You can boil water and it, and fry food with it. It does both perfectly! :)

[@btpuppy2]

Can you tell me the brand of the copper pot that you have like Bob Wells’ pot?

[@magpyeminifree5612]

Hi, Bob. I don't think you mentioned the dog tongue pre-wash for your dishes. My cat refuses to co-operate so I use a spray bottle of Dr Bronner's Pure Castile Soap mixed with water. It's so convenient that I use it my house as well.

[@NomadicRVLiving]

I have a lot to learn since I never have camped and cooked outdoors. Thanks for the videos.

[@beckyspindler2153]

I just love your laughter about your magical powers ! And I love the idea of going camping For the rest of my life

[@starblazer64]

Hello Bob! I ordered your book today How to Live in a Van. I've lived in vehicles for most of my life. No kidding. I drove a semi truck for almost 30 years and lived in a truck for the most part. So naturally I've picked up some knowledge. But I am always open minded and realize there's almost certainly new information out there. Since I have been watching your channel for quite a while I've even learned a few things... Like if I cook in my van I will almost certainly die! ;-) Thanks for your enjoyable and knowledgeable videos!

[@shirleyfrederickson4794]

Your big square one with the ceramic looks like Panderno cookware. I have a huge round one and love it so much! Am definitely taking it with me in the van 😊

[@LollyGaggler]

I have been watching these videos from my desk at work for a year..I now have a 2018 GMC Savana 2500 cargo van...I still have to work mon-fri...but my adventures have increased....Someday fulltimer I will be

[@josephinefaithgibbs9353]

The spray bottle cleanup system is brilliant! I've often just wiped pans out with paper towels when camping, but this takes it to the next level and makes it a "real" clean instead of a stop gap until I get to running water. Thank you!

[@KenWPeek]

If you have the electrical system that can support it, an induction cooktop (IKEA) and a small "InstaPot" (Walmart/Amazon) will also work well-- just make sure your pots and pans will work with an induction cooktop-- (check them with a magnet-- if the magnet is attracted to the bottom, it will work). I like this idea, because I would not then need to have propane, and all of the issues that go with that.

[@anonymixx8106]

What electrical system do you recommend? I'm upgrading to a van eventually so don't mind going big. Was thinking to start with one panel and one battery, maybe add some on as I go.

[@SSandtheRVCats]

Whether it's in a van, truck camper, or fifth wheel this is an awesome topic. Thanks as always for sharing Bob.

[@treysuniverserv1576]

Bob I have great respect for what you do to help people. There are so many troll and may sayers out there I am glad that they don't effect your positive message!

[@jerrystark6766]

Good advice all around, as always. We have an Aliner fold-up camper, so we have a sink that drains into a grey water container. We use Zep spray bottles to clean our dishes, too. I use one spray bottle with clean water and one spray bottle with water mixed with a bit of Dr,. Bonner's scent-free soap. I wipe out the dishes with a paper towel, then spray them with soapy water, rinse them with clean water over the sink, and then I dry them with a dish towel. Zep spray bottles and Costco paper towels have been the best for our use -- they are both cheap and durable. I started using the spray bottle approach to washing dishes when we camped in a car-top tent (a RoofNest Sparrow) and cooked outside because it uses less water. I still use this approach for the same reason. Thanks for the video.

[@garygary2250]

Great job, thanks for the informative video,, I cook in my room I rent with a single burner camp stove, I have the window open of course, plus I'm careful with this cooker to,, I have the slipstone pots and pans that don't give off fumes,, I love to cook just like you,, keep up the great videos of your travels,,..ps: the money I save cooking for myself instead of going to restaurants is mind boggling, thanks again,,,,, gary gary

[@batki2596]

Great advice. It's funny how a person can make life so hard when cleaning like this is simple, quick and effective. I'm looking at my sink now, in my sticks and bricks and rolling my eyes at all the fussing. Love your videos. Eye opening. Blessings

[@randyrowett7998]

Bob, you're amazing. You have taught so many people how to live, even a simple yet happy life. I bet you cook well.

[@philcapling8268]

Excellent video, Bob! I’ve used white vinegar in a spray bottle for cleaning and it really works well. Your approach is spot on! And, I have a couple of copper chef pans-they are simply fantastic and clean up so easily. Instant Pot (pressure cookers) are wonderful. A 6 qt. Instant Pot and recipes on KZbin are rampant-they work great! Thanks for all you do for all of us on your channel!

[@bettywith2girls]

Pam on the Lam has a 12 volt plug-in Road Pro frying pan for, I think, around $30 or so. She just cooks on a board or stand on her passenger seat and runs the car the 5 or 10 min. it takes to cook anything (maybe drive somewhere she has to go anyway to simmer), and she is done. The pan is as large as your square pan, Bob, so she can cook several portions to eat later or to share. She also has a Road Pro small oven too (same plug-in and price) she uses a lot. Great video, tho, Bob. Lots of options.

[@elsiegisella]

Betty Smith you can also get a 12 volt whirlpool truck microwave

[@livefreeordie4850]

Betty great idea

[@kathysyphrit5713]

Love everything Bob does. You have encouraged me to get out and can life . I am a slave to my home😠 Bob you are a great guy.

[@michellecastaneda20]

Working on my high top van now. I have the floors and walls almost done. Can't wait for the RTR. Thanks for the videos.

[@robertvandenbrink5884]

I cook in my van. I make Bacon and eggs. Fry Hamburger ...throw in two eggs and put some cheese on to melt. Put a kettle of water to boil for tea or coffee. Never had a problem...usually had the door open or the windows down. I have a two burner stove hooked to a 5 gallon propane bottle. After watching your video on how to heat your van with a propane stove...I now use the stove for heat as well. I use the inside pot fron a steamer. It has a lot of holes in it and I fastened a lid on top to keep the heat from going up.

[@frankatstarisland4732]

Great video Bob.I'm putting together a weekender minimalist van setting up the galley has been a lot of fun so far some homemade burgers just great am looking forward to a deeper meal, 16 years that's incredible!

[@gisellegonzalez2628]

I’ve always cooked in my Van. I open my door and all is fine. I’m a vegetarian so my meals are pretty easy. I do carry cast iron and the copper. Just because I live in my Van doesn’t mean all the meals are unhealthy. Thank you for the video Bob!!

[@unmapa5767]

I soffritto onions and peppers and make a 5 min amazing Arroz and frijoles for 1 week

[@kellyu765]

That little pot is such the perfect size. Heck I would save another step with that little pot that whatever I heated up in it .... I would just eat it right out of the little pot and that and my spoon or fork would be the only things to clean! I mean Who needs a bowl with that perfect pot!! I’ve gotten where I think simple too and it’s so nice! Makes life less stressful.

[@abcxyz3603]

Thank you for another interesting video and for inviting me into your van to see how you cook. I do enjoy seeing how van dwellers go about their day to day business. My only concern about cooking in a small place is how to cope with condensation - ventilation must be stressed here. Thanks again from a house dweller, I always pick up some useful tips and tricks.

[@nickallen419]

None of us are getting out alive so do what works for you is all you can do.

[@paulmood308]

So true. 👍🏻

[@alfries9736]

Love your videos and your integrity as well as your honesty, as a Trucker I had a Microwave as well as a 2000 watt Honda Ge-Set, I used it to power an electric frying pan, that and a can of Spam....

[@sylviaann69]

Hi Bob, Just want to say you are an amazing man that inspires me to find me a rig, I hope I can make it to the RTR. I just want to be happy & enjoy the rest of my life. Thank you so much for your so helpful videos.Take care hope to meet you one day!!!!!!!

[@dtp-frostyyy4633]

Planning every day for my family to move into the nomadic life, we are excited for it and to travel and learn about different cultures and places and give my son the healing power that nature holds

[@GroovyVideo2]

I have the same stove - I wrapped the steel rods where pan sits with Aluminum wire to make it less slippery so pan does not slide around - works well - yup wiping pans is way to go

[@jannwebb]

GroovyVideo2 Where do we get aluminum wire? Not familiar

[@GroovyVideo2]

I used TIG aluminum welding rod - worked well

[@melissahoffman4687]

Heat resistant glass cookware is also handy. Glass is the healthiest cookware out there. Give it a try if you want to. :)

[@debslifesimplified6406]

I got a good chuckle out of the magical powers comment. I am making my kitchen smaller. I fixed one out of scrap wood, it's to big for the space I am putting my kitchen. Yours is so simple, and yet practical and has everything u need. Thanks for sharing.

[@BB-pc3kg]

Great video, I love to take my insta pot camping. I am not full time yet. But the insta pot lets me plug in at rest stops for 3 to 30 minutes and have a great meal. I love the spray bottle of Vodca idea as well.

[@serenakoleno9338]

Where are outlets to plug it in at rest stops? I have a new one I planned to take, thinking to use if I have shore power or find a park with a pavilion.

[@candiedginger8729]

Ceramic coated pots and pans are great, even cast iron can be found that is ceramic coated. Im not keen on scrubbing dishes so the non stick surface helps with morale. 😊

[@shess1640]

Can’t wait to see more in this series! Great video....big hug to you Bob.

[@barbarametzler7534]

Love your sweatshirt. My Mom was an RN at Climax in Leadville. She road a special leisure bus from Buena Vista every day before the 'Crack of Dawn' to get to work & she loved it! Thanks for the fond memory & your brilliant insight into cooking / cleaning that you have shown in this video!

[@zoommikerobinson3315]

When I lived in my 5th wheel,in the big city RV Park for 10-years, the shower worked well for dish cleaning. The spray bottle came in handy as a reserve A.C. device.

[@zoommikerobinson3315]

paris dennard -- I lived at Mountain Shadows RV Park in Draper, Utah (basically Salt Lake). It was their month-to- month rate --- $365 (free electric and water). That was 1999 to 2009, those rates will be different now. Then I moved to a house in Phoenix. Now I'm retired, and have a Hunter Compact Jr. trailer with a Black Ops Ranger -- and travel full-time with my Service Cat.

[@grlnexdoorable]

There is an episode of Seinfeld where Kramer does his whole life in the shower.

[@zoommikerobinson3315]

@@grlnexdoorable -- Oh, ya. I forgot. That was a good episode.

[@owensdaniels6244]

THANKYOU! BOB SIR YOU REALY GAVE ME A TON OF INFORMATION, ON THIS VIDEO. I WOULD STAND AT THE SINK LETTING THE WATER RUN FOREVER WASTING WATER WASHING POT AND PANS AND DISHES. I TOOK IT FOR GRANTED WASTING WATER, THANKYOU! I NEVER THOUGHT TO DO IT THAT WAY

[@jackiem1093]

I may be off to Texas to buy a converted Element...if everything works out on Tuesday morning⚛️

[@jackiem1093]

This is an old post; didn't work out😥 Maybe I'll get to buy an Astro van this weekend if I sell the rest of my stuff and thus make the money to buy the van🙏

[@clarasmith1873]

I have watched this a couple of times. You do have magical powers!! You are such a genuine person.

[@burly636]

I saw saw you in a small documentary the other day about nomadic life, I have much respect for you. I watch your videos all the time and enjoy them.

[@freebird1477]

" takes the bad job away of washing dishes" love it! That's hilarious. I think washing dishes is a " bad job " also.

[@seanmckee8106]

Yes Bob, you have magical powers, you are the RV Wizard!

[@vanlifenomadfirekeeper]

I have the Insta Pot" its great. You can cooks hundreds of meals, even cook bread in it (-: love watching your videos, very informative. Im waiting on SSI, then im hitting the road. (-:

[@dorcasowens1210]

The copper colored pan is made by MOSS & STONE. BOB by your recommendation I purchased that pan. I absolutely love it. In fact I also purchased the smaller frying pan with lid. Clean up is so easy. Just wipe them clean with a paper towel, wash and rinse. These pans brown and cook meat perfectly, eggs are easy. A very good investment.

[@chrusb7765]

I love the vodka in a spray bottle, is it one squirt for the pan, three squirts for me? Hahaha

[@jamierupert7563]

Lol

[@nvention20]

just a fyi , Dollar Store MouthWash is WAY cheaper . its over 50 proof (dont drink it of course)

[@jborrego2406]

NWforager what a mouth wash is 50 proof

[@cheath8705]

@@nvention20 I wouldn't want to have mouthwash flavored food. ;)

[@lilycherkaoui5423]

Like when Julia Child's cooked. Heck she would burn down the van. Lol

[@alchemist-1011]

The only reason Bob can cook in his van is because he is a Wizard, he has magical powers.

[@alchemist-1011]

Bob is the best! I've learned so much from the Wizard

[@livefreeordie4850]

Off the grid, yes same here

[@KellyS_77]

You're right about the magical powers, but he's not a Wizard, he's Santa Claus.

[@lilycherkaoui5423]

He's so laid back.

[@kevinjudy2210]

DUMBLEDORE van life!

[@barbarakuhn3239]

Yeah I have that square pan that you have I love it I do all my cooking and that

[@kentbullard6917]

I agree with using the vinegar and or peroxide to clean your pans with and also remember that getting the pan hot enough before placing the food in it will further eliminate germs. I never worry about a dirty grate when cooking over a camp fire. Just brush it with a wire brush and spray Pam on it then get it good and hot before placing the food on it.

[@karenrobinson921]

I love watching your channel, have been saving your videos, taking notes and look forward to the day I can join the on the road group. Thank you 😊

[@pumpkinpie7254]

I don't live in a van but so intrigued with being off the grid. If you line your non-stick pan with foil and give it a quick spray of canola oil eggs come out amazing, you just have to be patient / gentle moving em around 👍

[@sueg2658]

Good job Bob, thank you. I think Vodka idea your friend had is brilliant! I think even putting a bit of water (not even a cup) let it simmer, swish out pot, then dry would work too.

[@GiGiGoesShopping]

Wonder Bags. It's a modern take on old fashioned hay boxes. You bring the dish to boil and simmer for approx 15 minuets then place the cooking vessel in the wonder bag. A few hours later the meal is complete. Good in summer and winter.

[@tomaskey6844]

I use the same stove and made it more useful by putting a rack on it so the pots and pans don’t tip over. Didn’t find a rack in Walmart but did find some used welding wire reels and after taking out the middle I was left with two rings that fit perfectly.

[@scottgroves974]

I haven't cooked because of the limited amount of water that my class b has. You have encouraged me to reconsider.

[@bingsballyhoo711]

I like shop towels for washing dishes. I can usually tear one in half, wash the dish, respray (with vinegar and water) and dry with the other half.

[@DannyB-cs9vx]

For me, the ceramic pan worked for about a year then food started to stick. Propane cooking in an insulated low top van generates enough heat to where I need to open doors and windows.

[@DannyB-cs9vx]

I was being generous with the time. Mine was probably more like 6 months, and I did not scrub it with anything harsh. I have the T-fal's and they have not been a problem, (no chips or pealing). I was just trying to get away from Teflon. It looks like it will be Stainless Steel and a Brillo pad for me. I have a small Cast Iron, but it is anything but maintenance free.

[@livefreeordie4850]

Mike know I know why I'm coughing when I cook on my T-Fal at high heat. I just that it was the spicy sausages I was cooking.

[@livefreeordie4850]

Danny I know right

[@LoriCor-]

Oh, that is bad news. I love ceramic.

[@emdee7744]

Good tips. Thanks for the video. Never thought of using vodka as an antiseptic. Adding that to the idea file. Thanks for passing on your friend's tip.

[@livingwithtri]

Very helpful!!! Also this cleaning technique saves from needed a sink and dealing with grey water.

[@maryw3989]

I love my electric pressure cooker it steams veggies, browns meats and has slow cooker setting on it

[@TheFamilytime3]

Bob..love every one of your vlogs..so much information.. all in the name life. love. And happiness..working on getting on the road...your friends Dan&Christy..great job..

[@kevinjudy2210]

You're extremely clean for your dishes...a few wipes and I'm done..spray only if needed!

[@jamesbrackett575]

Bob Teflon doesn’t bother me at all I’ve cooked on flat rocks before really like your advice rock on bob hey from Florida

[@corneliusaustin]

Cleanup is where cast iron shines. One dry paper towel and you're done. Clean while still very warm the pan has been sterilized while frying. When you hear it up again, surprise, it's sterlized again! Best non-stick ever. You just have to use it often.

[@blue-bunny]

Although I prefer an alcohol stove for indoor use, I do not recommend strong alcohol on a paper towel as a cleaner. Unintended Alcohol fires are often invisible, even in relatively low light. A clean fuel, but has this dangerous downside.

[@CaliforniaBushman]

I'm building wooden inserts in both of my 4" thick side van doors to make 6". Putting a two burner fold down propane stove in the rear side one (extra hinges to hold weight of doors). Then a fold down cutting board and laptop table for the passenger captain's chair inside the front side, side door. Then a custom welded foldable, storable, mountable burner fan above the two burners to suck the water vapor out the side window when cooking inside (in addition to the 14" ceiling fan). I'll have both doors open, facing eachother for outside cooking. I could even mount a curtain & collapsible rod between the open side doors while cooking in a populated city to hide camp cooking activity in the summer!

[@caroleboulet4587]

Thanks for sharing about Teflon. I did not know it was cancerous. I will be using my stainless steel from now on.

[@tybrady4598]

I use an electric three quart Instant Pot. It doesn’t use a huge amount of electricity. It also has a sauté feature.

[@dawnglessner7432]

I agree that you are a magical person, Bob. You saved me and a lot of people with your knowledge. Thank you!

[@thomasf.5768]

I love the Copper Chef pans. I also a pressure cooker to safe fuel & time. I got both electric & stove top. Additionally, I think an electric induction stove is brilliant as it saves fuel & time; if you have the battery power. 💛

[@nataliaturner4845]

Is that one really from copper chef? I don't see it on their website anywhere...

[@nataliaturner4845]

Nevermind I found it :) It's the 11" pan w/out the extensions & lid

[@vcmay626]

That copper pr fits perfectly on your little stove. I've seen them but now I want one.

[@fancybantams]

I haven't seen anyone solar cooking. I solar cook all summer where I live. You can cook and bake anything with no heat.

[@samlsd9711]

"I have magical powers" Ok Santa.I believe you.

[@S.G..E555]

I use the potable one ring gas burner.. it’s not the cheapest but I didn’t want a larger gas tank.. I’ve bought a decent pan and frying pan plus a toaster pan plus a kettle with folding handle .. I’ve made some good dishes on the road.. I have a little extinguisher and a carbon monoxide tester .. 👍👍

[@SB_whatevers]

Besides stainless steel camping pots (MSR brand), I use a small cast iron skillet that might be a 6 inch one. It's small and light and I get all the benefits of cast iron cooking like even heat retention, browning, and searing. It's just big enough for a small steak or a largish hamburger. I never cook inside though. Moisture is a big problem, odors linger (I cook a lot of garlic, onions and spices and sometimes in bear country), oil atomizes, coats surfaces and mixes with dust to make a sticky residue that's hard to clean, there's a fire danger in a plastic and polyester lined box (most cars), and I want to minimize the potential for oil splatters and spills. Even in urban areas you can find parks with benches, tables, and grilling and picnic areas where no one is going to care if you set up a little stove. If I always camped in arid places and if I had a large vehicle, I'd consider cooking inside. But for living in smaller vehicles...it has the potential to cause too many problems.

[@nmartin5551]

Bob - you make so many things simple.

[@VanGoWanderlust]

I only wash my pans at home maybe every other week, never had a problem. I just heat the pot or pan before putting food in it and any bacteria will die. Similar to how you use a grill. No one is using soap and water on a bbq grill.

[@VanGoWanderlust]

That being said, I might have magical powers too.

[@estherchoe2580]

I really think that wash dish and pots with vanigar water spray and wipes. Love your idea!

[@lilliecunningham7933]

Thank you Mr. Bob, another great video. Very informative, going camping, yes I can, yes I will In The Name of Jesus. Be Blessed

[@cybil4152]

You are adorable! To live in a world where we fear nothing must be heaven!

[@scotttyson8104]

Love the copper pans had to buy 2 different sets. Great video.

[@terryi8892]

Thanks those were some really good tips . I agree that the pressure cooker is excellent because it makes food more nutritious . However my reading of microwaves and Teflon lined utensils make me stay away from those . When Teflon gets scratched it then poisons food . I suspect that your cooking technique and cleanup methods keep you safe from the Teflon dangers. You really have these things well arranged !Keep on living free out of the 'sticks and bricks'

[@ShannonShenanigans79]

I LOVEEEEE the Copper pans! They are the best no joke

[@VerucaPumpkin]

Constant inspiration from your youtube channel. Thank you so much for the idea. I will use a spray bottle to do my dishes as well when I get my van!

[@tony-kj5mc]

Thanks Bob I have waiting to see how you cooked in your van. You said you are doing more videos on this .Good I will be watching!!

[@serenakoleno9338]

I have a heavy stainless steel sauce pan that cleans up a treat. It was 20 dollars years ago. Doesn't stick, either. I like the Aldi's Crofton frying pans with white coating. But they don't last more than a few years even treating gently. I have glass range so can't use cast iron, but dang, they are so heavy empty!

[@dianeibsen5994]

Thank you Bob💝 Can I come and cook for you?💗 appreciate you talking about the pressure cooker. I have an instant pot I really enjoy. Also colloidal silver is excellent, toxic-free and non gmo for antiseptic/antibacterial. Also great for cuts, mouthwash, can be ingested for boosting the immune system. An amazing product. There are ways you can make your own as well.

[@devodoesdrivingk6856]

Magical Bob! I love your no nonsense way of thought! Simply logical! Devo does driving 💋

[@julituli6768]

So true cooking at home is a hugh advantage. That's how I live the best and save the very most. Love your helpful advice.

[@lukkassuhn6761]

It's even better if you can acclimate yourself to One Meal A Day. I save so much on energy and time doing it that way.

[@Radnally]

Thx for the advice about cooking inside

[@dabbydoodle4801]

Bob in Monasteries they never use chemicals and use apple cider vinegar or distilled vinegar with 3 parts water for rinsing dishes, washing countertops, etc. Kills 99% bacteria .