Are induction cooktops worth it for travellers?

With the rise of induction cooktops and versatile 12V setups, many are wondering if they are worth the investment.

Induction cooking

May 5, 2023

Induction cooking

When it comes to off-grid travel, one of the biggest challenges is cooking. Traditional gas stoves have been the go-to for campers and caravanners for years, but with the rise of induction cooktops and versatile 12V setups, many are wondering if they are worth the investment. In this article, we explore the pros and cons of using induction cooktops for those who love to hit the open road.

Why do we love them?

They’re speedy

First and foremost, let’s talk about the benefits of induction cooktops. The biggest advantage is the speed and efficiency of cooking. Induction cooktops heat up faster than traditional gas stoves, boiling around a litre of water a minute while providing more precise temperature control. This means you can cook your favourite meals quickly and accurately, without wasting any energy. 

Safe even for the kiddies

Additionally, with no open flames or the requirement to carry gas, induction cooktops are a far safer alternative. The safety benefits don’t stop there, though; because of the way induction cooktops work, they aren’t capable of burning the hands of those who touch them – making them perfect for those travelling with their young children in tow. 

Great for those low on space

Another benefit of induction cooktops is their portability. Induction cooktops are a fraction of the size when compared to gas stoves (and don’t rattle like them either), making them a worthy addition for those that’re struggling with space. They are lightweight, easy to store, and can be used anywhere with the right 12V setup. They’re also immune to wind, unlike gas stoves, and they’re bloody easy to clean. 

Why do we have reservations?

You will need a 12V setup

However, there are also some drawbacks to using induction cooktops for those on the go. The first is that they require electricity to function. This means you need to invest in a robust and effective 12V setup, such as the one in my Ranger, that’s capable of powering at least 2000W for an extended period of time.

But that’s not necessarily a bad thing

With a 12V system in place that’s capable of powering your induction cooker, you can also power a whole host of other appliances, such as coffee machines and air fryer ovens, not to mention auxiliary lighting, sound systems, hard-wired air compressors, fridges, and even dropsaws (if you’re into that). The point is, a quality 12V setup can be directly correlated to a quality camping experience.

You may need to buy additional gear

In addition to the upfront cost, there is also the issue of compatibility. Induction cooktops require specific cookware to function properly. This means you may need to invest in new pots and pans, which can add to the overall cost. However, there are some induction cooktops that are compatible with a wider range of cookware, so it is important to do your research before making a purchase.

Weather dependant

Finally, there’s the issue of weather. A cracker 12V setup is all well and good, but if you’re hit with cloudy weather while relying on solar to recharge the batteries once you’re done cooking up your off-grid feast on the first night, you might be in for a world of hurt. Or, at least, a night of hunger the next one. 

Where I travel, this isn’t an issue; the Outback isn’t exactly known for its lack of sun. But travel through Victoria, for instance, and it may be, so it pays to check the weather ahead of time and, if required, have a redundancy plan.

You need to weigh it up yourself

The decision to use an induction cooktop for off-grid living or travelling, be it in your 4X4 or caravan, comes down to personal preference and individual circumstances. For those who prioritise speed, efficiency, and safety, an induction cooktop is worth the investment. However, for those on a tight budget or travelling to locations that are known for their inclement weather, a traditional gas stove may still be the better option. 

What do I reckon?

My best advice is this: future-proof your rig by having a 12V setup that can power an induction cooker. If it can do that, it can power everything else you’ll find yourself in need of when you’re off the beaten track. When you can, use induction. It’s better in just about every way. For days when the weather isn’t playing ball: have a plan B (whether that’s pulling into a site with a shore-power hookup, or cooking dinner with the use of good ol’ fossil fuels).

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Josh Leonard
Josh Leonard

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