6 Best Cooktops for Van Life of 2025

For van life enthusiasts prioritizing budget and simplicity, the Flame King YSNHT600 offers a compelling solution. This lightweight, built-in propane stove features two distinct burners, providing a 7200 BTU main burner for faster cooking and a 5200 BTU burner ideal for simmering. Its self-igniting Piezo ignition eliminates the need for matches, a small but significant convenience when space is tight and conditions might be damp. A thoughtful integrated cover not only protects the surface but doubles as a wind guard, crucial for cooking outdoors or in drafty spaces.

Performance in a mobile kitchen setting is straightforward and reliable. The dual BTU output allows for cooking multiple components of a meal simultaneously, from boiling water quickly on the larger burner to gently warming sauces on the smaller one. Its compact dimensions (18.5″ x 13″ x 4.5″) and lightweight design make installation manageable in standard RV or camper van cutouts (16-1/8″ x 11 5/16″). While the BTU output is sufficient for most basic cooking tasks, it might struggle with very large pots or achieving extremely high heat compared to more powerful units.

Compared to the higher-BTU CAMPLUX Classic RV Stove, the Flame King YSNHT600 is significantly more budget-friendly and lighter, albeit limited to two burners instead of three. Its simple, reliable design makes it ideal for minimalists or those just starting out in van life or off-grid living who need a functional, no-frills cooktop. Ultimately, the Flame King offers dependable propane cooking in a compact, cost-effective package, providing solid value for its feature set compared to the RV 2-Burner Drop-In Cooktop.

Stepping up the mobile kitchen game, the CAMPLUX Classic RV Stove presents a robust propane cooktop designed for those who don’t want to compromise on cooking capacity in their van life or RV setup. Boasting three burners with a combined output of 21,000 BTU, this unit allows for more complex meal preparation, handling multiple pots and pans simultaneously. The option of electronic or manual ignition adds flexibility, though the electronic ignition requires a 12V DC power source, typical in RVs and campers.

Measuring 21 inches wide, this slide-in RV stove demands a bit more counter space than compact two-burner units but significantly enhances cooking versatility. The cast iron grates provide a stable cooking surface and are conveniently dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup, a major plus in tight quarters. A stylish tempered glass cover protects the burners when not in use and helps keep the kitchen area tidy by preventing splatters, contributing to both aesthetics and function in a mobile kitchen.

While larger and potentially requiring a more substantial cutout than two-burner models like the Flame King YSNHT600 or the RV 2-Burner Drop-In Cooktop, the CAMPLUX Classic justifies its size with superior cooking capacity and total BTU output. It’s best suited for van life or RVers who regularly cook for families or enjoy preparing multi-course meals. This CAMPLUX model offers a significant upgrade in cooking power and flexibility compared to standard two-burner propane options.

Engineered specifically for the constraints of van life and mobile kitchens, this RV 2-Burner Drop-In Cooktop strikes an excellent balance between size, performance, and ease of use. Featuring a 7,200 BTU high-power burner and a 5,200 BTU smaller burner, it provides ample heat for most cooking tasks in a compact form factor (18 ⅜” W x 14 ⅝” D). The linear flow gas valves offer precise control over the flame, allowing for everything from rapid boiling to gentle simmering, a level of nuance often missing in basic RV stoves.

Performance is solid and reliable, thanks to sealed burners and a porcelain cooking surface that make spills and cleanup remarkably simple. The full-width, one-piece flat wire grate ensures stability for various pot sizes and promotes even heat distribution. Recessed knobs contribute to the sleek, modern look while preventing accidental adjustments during transit or when the counter is in use. The Piezo ignition provides a dependable, match-free start every time, essential for convenient off-grid living.

Positioned as a premium two-burner option, this cooktop offers enhanced features like precise control and easier cleaning compared to the more budget-focused Flame King YSNHT600, despite having similar BTU ratings. It’s an ideal choice for van life or camper owners who value refined functionality and aesthetics in a space-saving built-in propane stove. This RV 2-Burner provides a superior cooking experience and cleaner design compared to the Flame King two-burner model.

For van life setups with robust electrical systems, the ChangBERT Portable Induction Cooktop offers a fast and efficient alternative to propane. This commercial-grade countertop burner delivers a powerful 1800W output, capable of heating cookware with remarkable speed and precision thanks to its large 8″ heating coil and optimized winding structure. With 9 power levels and 18 temperature settings, it provides exceptional control, making it ideal for everything from searing to delicate sauces. Its NSF and ETL certifications attest to its durability and safety standards.

In terms of performance, this induction hot plate excels at rapid heat-up times and maintaining consistent temperatures, crucial for achieving perfect results. The smooth glass surface and stainless steel housing are not only durable but also incredibly easy to wipe clean, a significant benefit in a mobile kitchen. While its single burner limits simultaneous cooking compared to multi-burner units, its portability allows it to be used inside or outside the van, adding flexibility to your cooking setup.

Unlike propane cooktops such as the Flame King or CAMPLUX, the ChangBERT requires a substantial electrical draw (up to 1800W) and is only compatible with magnetic cookware. However, its superior efficiency (83%) and precise temperature control make it a standout for specific cooking needs or as a supplemental burner. This ChangBERT unit offers unmatched speed and control for electric cooking compared to the Karinear 2-Burner Electric Cooktop, though it’s limited to one burner.

The Karinear 2 Burners Electric Cooktop offers a versatile cooking solution for van life setups connected to shore power or a capable inverter. This 120V plug-in ceramic cooktop provides two burners (1400W and 600W), allowing for basic multi-dish cooking. Its key advantage lies in its compatibility with any type of cookware, unlike induction, making the transition to electric cooking seamless without needing new pots and pans. It can be used as both a countertop unit with included brackets or built-in for a cleaner look.

Performance is reliable for everyday cooking, with 9 power levels on the main burner offering decent flexibility for various techniques like simmering, frying, or boiling. The smaller 600W burner is best suited for warming or very low-heat tasks. The smooth black glass surface is aesthetically pleasing and very easy to clean, a practical feature in a mobile kitchen. Multiple safety features, including a child lock, timer, and auto shutdown, provide peace of mind in a small, moving space.

Compared to induction options like the CAMPLUX RV Induction Cooktop, the Karinear is slower to heat and less energy-efficient but offers universal cookware compatibility. It provides two burners in a compact form factor, unlike the single-burner ChangBERT Induction. Ideal for van life users who prioritize using existing cookware and have access to standard electrical outlets, this Karinear cooktop offers flexibility in placement and cookware choice not found in induction alternatives.

Combining the speed of induction with the convenience of a multi-burner setup, the CAMPLUX RV Induction Cooktop is a strong contender for van life builds with appropriate electrical capacity. This 120V plug-in unit features two burners sharing a total of 1800W, allowing for faster heating compared to traditional electric radiant cooktops. It offers flexible cooking control with 9 temperature levels and 8 power levels, catering to various culinary needs from a rapid boil to a gentle simmer. Its ETL certification and extensive safety features, including a safety lock and automatic shutoff, are particularly valuable in a confined mobile kitchen.

In practical use, the shared 1800W power means that while one burner can reach full power for quick tasks, using both simultaneously will split the wattage, potentially slowing down cooking if both require high heat. The smooth black glass surface is incredibly easy to clean, requiring just a quick wipe. This portable induction stove can be used on the countertop or dropped into a cutout, offering versatility in installation depending on the van’s design.

Compared to the Karinear electric radiant cooktop, this CAMPLUX model offers faster heating and higher energy efficiency due to induction technology, although it requires magnetic cookware. It provides two burners in a compact size, unlike the single-burner ChangBERT Induction which offers higher power to its sole element. This CAMPLUX induction cooktop is best suited for van life users who prioritize speed and safety in their electric setup and are willing to use compatible cookware, offering a more efficient and feature-rich electric option than standard radiant cooktops.