A microwave is a staple in domestic kitchens, providing convenience and straightforward cooking. As a result, it’s understandable that you may find yourself wondering “can you use a microwave in a campervan?”, particularly if your ‘van has limited cooking facilities onboard. Fear not – we’re here to help.
The short answer is yes, you can, with the best microwave for a campervan offering efficient and practical cooking. However, before you take your domestic microwave and put it in your campervan, there are a couple of points you need to think about.
Firstly, you will need to consider how you would power it, just as you would if you were wondering “can you use an air fryer in a campervan“. If you’re pitching up at one of the best motorhome sites, you’re most likely going to have access to 230V electric hook-up, in which case you will need to know how much power the bollard will provide. You’ll generally see sites in the UK provide 10A or 16A, while touring in Europe can see campsites with 6A electric hookup.
Once you know the amperage, you can work out the overall capacity you have from your hook-up using the following equation: Volts x Amps = Watts.
Assuming you’re pitched up at a campsite with 16A electric hookup, you would have 3680W (230V x 16A = 3680W) – if it’s a campsite with 10A electric hookup, you would have 2300W (230V x 10A = 2300W) and finally, if you’re on a 6A site, you would have 1380W (230v x 6V = 1380W).
You also need to bear in mind that the input of the microwave is going to be higher than the output, due to factors such as the power required to operate the turntable and the light, so you will have to ensure the power source is able to run it.
Once you know this figure, you can work out the wattage of the microwave you can use, as well as the other appliances that can be run at the same time.
We’d recommend sticking to a wattage of around 700W to 800W (not forgetting that the input will be higher than the output), just as you would if you were looking for a low wattage air fryer. However, if you are considering using your domestic microwave when pitched up, you will need to know its power input to ensure it can be operated.
If you’re looking at using your microwave somewhere without electric hook-up – for instance, at a festival or while enjoying an off-grid trip – you’re going to need a different source of power. You may find yourself opting for a portable power station to do so – if you do, the same principles apply, ensuring the microwave’s input is lower than the power bank’s output and is also within its capacity.
You also need to think about the dimensions of your microwave – you will need to know whether it will be kept in a dedicated area or stored in a locker when it’s not in use, and then ensure the model you have in mind is appropriate for the space. Consider the payload allowance you have as well to ensure you do not opt for an appliance that is heavier than you need.
It’s not only good food that can make a difference to your touring experience – ensuring you have the right sleeping setup is also an important step. Something that can make a difference is the mattress you have, and if you’re on the lookout for a new one, knowing “are camper mattresses standard size?” can be crucial in ensuring you get the one that’s right for your ‘van.
Future Publishing Limited, the publisher of Practical Motorhome, provides the information in this article in good faith and makes no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. Individuals carrying out the instructions do so at their own risk and must exercise their independent judgement in determining the appropriateness of the advice to their circumstances. Individuals should take appropriate safety precautions and be aware of the risk of electrocution when dealing with electrical products. To the fullest extent permitted by law, neither Future nor its employees or agents shall have any liability in connection with the use of this information. Double check any warranty is not affected before proceeding.
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