At Van Builder HQ, we have installed several countertops and when it came to repairing them we found the main flaw was not choosing the right countertop material.
Understanding your van’s climate/environment is key. Think hot, cold, humid, and dry like the 4 seasons.
By choosing the right countertop material, you will not have to worry about cracking, delamination, and warping that can occur with a lower-quality countertop material.
Let’s take a look at a few that I believe are the best materials for the job.
Best Camper Van Countertop Materials
Formica
Known for being affordable and long-lasting, Formica is a go-to material for camper van countertops. Its resistance to wear and tear is a significant benefit, making it an ideal choice for the on-the-go lifestyle of a van dweller.
Butcher Block
Not only is butcher block robust and practical, but it also adds an appealing aesthetic quality to your camper van. One of its primary perks is the warmth and personality it can inject into your mobile space, making it feel more like a cozy home. You can conveniently purchase a butcher block countertop from your local Lowe’s or Home Depot store.
Bamboo
Bamboo countertops provide an eco-friendly option that is durable yet stylish. Their advantage lies in their sustainability, allowing you to create a comfortable kitchen area while contributing to the conservation of non-renewable resources.
Hardwood Countertop Varieties for Camper Van:
- Maple: Maple is an excellent choice for a camper van countertop because of its exceptional strength and long-lasting durability, ensuring your mobile kitchen stays pristine no matter how many meals you whip up on the road.
- Walnut: You can’t go wrong with Walnut countertops; their rich, deep color brings warmth and elegance to your camper van, while its durability stands the test of constant travel.
- Poplar: Poplar is a budget-friendly countertop material that don’t compromise on quality; they provide a balance between affordability and the toughness needed for your on-the-go lifestyle.
- Red Oak: Who can resist the classic charm of Red Oak? It offers a beautiful grain and remarkable resilience, making it a solid investment for your camper van kitchen.
- Alder: Alder countertops are the hidden gem of camper van kitchens, offering a beautiful, rustic look and plenty of toughness to withstand the wear and tear of life on the road.
- Teak: Teak countertops are an excellent choice for anyone interested in a upscale, stylish look that’s also highly resilient against water, ideal for those who love cooking and washing dishes in their camper van.
- Cherry: Cherry provides a high-end look for your countertop, infusing your camper van with timeless elegance and superior durability, so your kitchen stays stunning no matter how many miles you travel.
Pros of using hardwoods:
- can be finished beautifully to matte or high gloss finish bringing out the warm wood tones.
- depending on thickness can be resilient to warping
Cons of using hardwoods:
- Cost due to the high quality of these hardwoods
- Hardwood countertops are weighty and may require additional reinforcement, particularly if you’re installing them on a kitchen galley surface previously adorned with a lighter countertop.
Honorable Mentions Camper Van Countertops: If budget is not an option
PaperStone: An innovative choice that speaks to the camper van owner who is environmentally conscious is PaperStone. Made from recycled paper and a non-petroleum resin, it’s a countertop material that is durable and resistant to staining. PaperStone also offers a warm, inviting feel to your camper van’s interior. As a bonus, this countertop is quite easy to work with, even allowing for DIY installation which can save you money.
Corian: A popular choice for many home and camper van renovations, Corian is known for its durability and seamless appearance. Corian countertops blend effortlessly into any design, ensuring a clean, sleek look. They are also easy to maintain and incredibly resilient against scratches or heat damage. If you’re aiming for a mix of effortless style and efficiency in your camper van, Corian countertops are definitely worth considering.
In Summary
In conclusion, choosing the right countertop for your camper van doesn’t have to be a daunting task. We firmly believe that with the right information at your fingertips, which we’ve provided in this article, you’re more than ready to make a decision. Whether you favour the charm and durability of hardwood, the unique appeal of our top three picks, or you’re intrigued by the ones that earned an honorable mention, remember it’s all about making your van feel like home. Safe travels and happy van building!
