By Gail Marsh
Not every RVer uses the outdoor kitchen or TV space that often comes with RVs. When was the last time you used your RV’s outdoor space? Is your outdoor TV gathering dust? It might be time to rethink how you can repurpose that space to better fit your needs. After all, RV living is all about customization, and you should make every square foot count!
Functional storage
Instead of letting your RV’s outdoor space sit idle, convert it into a storage solution. Some RVers remove the outdoor kitchen/TV components entirely. They then use the space for extra storage. What might you put inside? Hobby equipment and supplies? Hard-to-store ski equipment like heavy coats/jackets? RV tools or hoses? The list never ends!
Coffee bar delight
This wonderful upgrade was completed by Sarah Wackett.
For a simple and cozy renovation, turn your outdoor kitchen into a coffee bar. This is perfect for early risers who love sipping their morning brew in the fresh air. You could style your outdoor coffee area to match your favorite coffee shop—whether modern, rustic, or inspired by a café you visited on your travels. Include everything you need, from your coffee maker to a toaster for a quick breakfast. This way, you won’t disturb anyone sleeping inside, and you can enjoy your peaceful mornings with everything you need.
Snack station
One popular idea for those who like to entertain outside is transforming your RV’s outdoor area into a snack and beverage station. You could install an ice maker or use the space to store essentials like popcorn/popper, s’mores ingredients, and marshmallow roasting sticks. Add a place to store napkins, paper plates/bowls, and hand wipes. This setup not only keeps you from running in and out of the RV, but it also reduces the chances of bugs sneaking inside your rig. Having all your snack supplies outside means more time spent enjoying the outdoors.
Outdoor laundry space
Another creative idea, especially for full-time RVers, is to convert the outdoor kitchen area into a laundry space. If you’ve been dreaming of having a washer and dryer on board, this could be the perfect spot. Small, compact washer and dryer units are available and may fit into your space. Plus, using the water hookups and electric outlets for laundry makes practical use of those connections!
Fun and games
If you’re more into outdoor activities and games, why not make this area a fun hub for outdoor entertainment? You could add a dartboard or repurpose the area by adding cupboards to store yard games like cornhole and Frisbees. Corral children’s toys inside plastic laundry bins or store your golf clubs and fishing poles inside the space!
Expand your living space
Some RVers choose to completely seal off the outdoor kitchen to add space to the room inside and behind it. For example, some families have transformed that space into extra sleeping areas by adding bunk beds. This is an excellent option if you’re traveling with kids and need to optimize your interior space. Other RVers convert the space into extra closet space. By sealing off the opening to gain more room inside the RV you can create a space that is a better fit for the way you RV.
Above, Chantal S. removed the RV outdoor kitchen in her 2016 Grand Design Solitude 366DEN. The area was sealed off to make space for bunk beds in the room behind it.
DIY bar for happy hour
For the social butterflies, converting your outdoor kitchen into a bar area might be just the thing. Whether you love hosting happy hour or enjoy relaxing with a drink and a view, this fun and unexpected twist can make your RV’s exterior more inviting. Adding a DIY bar setup can create a memorable space for gatherings with friends and fellow campers.
You can purchase this bar set on Amazon. It includes everything you need except cocktail glasses.
Style RV’s outdoor space with paint and décor
Sometimes, the simplest upgrades can make the greatest impact. Consider adding shelves to hold your grilling spices. Put up a paper towel holder and towel hooks to make your outdoor kitchen more user-friendly.
A fresh coat of paint or peel-and-stick tiles can transform your outdoor kitchen into something entirely new. Cover that old refrigerator with whimsical contact paper.
Adding simple décor items can also bring the space to life without a major renovation. Think: camping-themed towels, colorful utensils, and durable plastic drinkware.
Safety first
If you’re planning to remove any appliances during your remodel, such as the fridge or cooktop, make sure all electricity, propane, and water hookups are safely disconnected. It’s crucial to turn off these utilities before starting any remodel to avoid accidents. Also keep your RV’s overall weight in mind as you modify your outdoor kitchen/TV areas.
There you have it
Ultimately, your RV is your home on the road, and it should work for your lifestyle. Whether you want to turn your outdoor kitchen/TV area into a coffee bar, laundry nook, or something else entirely, the key is to think about what will make your RVing life more enjoyable. Repurposing these spaces is a great way to reclaim square footage and personalize your RV experience.
Have you modified your outdoor kitchen or TV areas? Tell me about it in the comments below.
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Funny…another article in today’s edition crows about CCC and overloaded trailers….yet this article says cram it all in there.
Exactly what I was thinking, J B.
Thank you, Gail! 🙂 Very interesting. 🤔 We haven’t an outside/outdoor kitchen. We do use the outside television to watch sporting events when tailgating or traveling. We watch it at as many as half our stops and as few as one-third of them when traveling. Thanks again, have a great week, safe travels, and safe stays! 🙂
Three years in, and I am still learning how to get the outside TV to work!
I know it works because I have seen it working, but with so many buttons, wires, and remotes, I genuinely have no clue.