Caravan Microwaves & Rangehoods

Caravan microwave ovens offer efficient cooking in compact form. Designed to operate safely while travelling, these 12V and 240V models fit seamlessly into RV kitchen spaces and run on minimal power.




Caravan Microwaves & Rangehoods: Compact Cooking Convenience for Your Van

Cooking on the road is easier when your appliances are designed for the bumps, vibration and tight spaces of caravan life. That’s why NCE’s caravan microwaves and caravan rangehoods focus on reliable operation, efficient power use and safe integration into compact cabinetry. If you’re planning a full galley refresh or just upgrading a single appliance, this guide explains formats, sizing, installation, power planning and everyday care—without glossing over the practical details.

Want a deeper dive into models and layouts? Read our how-to article: Caravan Microwaves Guide (Flatbed vs Turntable, Power Tips). For broader cooktop/BBQ decisions that affect ventilation, see the Caravan Cooking Guide (Gas, Induction & Slide-Out BBQ).

Microwaves Built for the Road

Caravan microwaves differ from household units in three ways: construction that resists vibration, power draw tuned for RV systems, and dimensions that suit overhead lockers or dedicated appliance bays. Frames and latches are reinforced to avoid rattles, internal components are secured to cope with corrugations, and control panels are straightforward so you can reheat, defrost or cook without fuss.

If you’re tight on space, the NCE 20 L Stainless Steel Microwave is an easy fit with simple controls for daily use. For maximum cavity space in the same footprint, a flatbed design like the NCE 23 L Flatbed Microwave Oven removes the turntable entirely, so square dishes and larger bowls sit flat and heat evenly. If you want more capacity and preset programs, the NCE 25 L Black Stainless Steel Microwave provides a bigger interior and a durable finish that matches modern caravan interiors.

Flatbed vs Turntable (Which Suits You?)

Type Best For Strengths Considerations
Flatbed (no turntable) Maximising usable space; irregular dish shapes More internal room; fewer moving parts; easier to wipe out after spills Check cookware size against the stated cavity dimensions
Turntable Simple reheats and everyday tasks Familiar operation; wide recipe compatibility Turntable and ring must be secured/removed before rough travel

Tip: whatever you choose, use microwave-safe containers with lids to reduce condensation inside the cabin—your rangehood won’t need to work as hard.

Sizing & Cabinet Integration

Measure the internal width, height and depth of your microwave bay—including the rear clearance where cabling and ventilation sit. Many vans use a trim kit or a factory mounting frame to secure the unit and fill gaps for a clean, rattle-free finish. If you’re placing a microwave in an overhead locker, confirm the locker’s load rating and fix into solid structure (not just thin panel lining). Allow the clearances recommended on the product page so heat can dissipate and electronics stay cool on summer days.

Power Planning for Microwaves

Most caravan microwaves run on 240 V. At powered sites you can plug in as usual; off-grid you’ll need an inverter with sufficient continuous output and a battery bank that can handle short, higher-draw bursts. Practical usage looks like this: reheat meals or run short cooking intervals during peak solar, avoid stacking other high-draw appliances at the same time, and let the inverter recover between cycles. For a full overview of sizing batteries, inverters and charging for appliance loads, see our Off-Grid Power Guide.

Rangehoods: Airflow, Moisture & Materials

Good ventilation keeps cabinetry dry, reduces condensation on windows and removes lingering odours. Caravan rangehoods are compact and lightweight, with fan performance matched to small kitchens and low-noise operation for evening cooking. Slimline designs mount under overhead cabinets and direct air through short duct runs (or recirculate via filters, depending on model and install).

The NCE Glass Rangehood offers a modern, easy-wipe fascia that suits contemporary interiors, while the NCE 12 V Stainless Steel Rangehood pairs a rugged finish with caravan-friendly 12 V operation. Both are designed to integrate neatly with common cabinet cut-outs; always check your existing aperture and the product dimensions before ordering.

Which Rangehood Style Fits My Setup?

Style Best For Why Choose It What to Check
Slimline glass-front Modern interiors; quick wipe-down Sleek fascia; smooth surface is easy to clean after oil or steam Confirm cabinet depth and mounting hole pattern
Stainless compact 12 V Touring durability; simple match with other stainless appliances Durable finish; caravan-friendly power; straightforward fit Check filter access and replacement method; verify wiring route

Installation & Compliance (No Corners Cut)

For microwaves, secure the chassis with the specified brackets and screws, fit the trim kit snugly, and verify ventilation gaps. Do not wedge packing material around the cabinet to “stop rattles”—it traps heat. For rangehoods, measure the cut-out twice and dry-fit before fixing. Some installs recirculate air through filters; others duct outside—follow the model’s instructions and keep duct runs short and smooth. Any 240 V work must be performed by a licensed electrician, and penetrations should be sealed carefully to keep dust and moisture out.

Everyday Use & Care

Microwaves stay fresh when you wipe the cavity after splatters and leave the door ajar briefly to vent steam. Use microwave-safe covers to reduce mess. Rangehoods perform best with clean filters—remove and wash them regularly, and check the fan intake for grease build-up. On rough roads, remove or secure loose turntable parts and re-check fixing screws at your next stop.

Explore all current models and sizes: browse caravan microwaves and caravan rangehoods, or dive deeper with our Caravan Microwaves Guide.

Caravan Microwaves & Rangehoods FAQs

Do caravan microwaves use less power than home models?
They’re engineered for RV use with sensible power draw and compact cavities, so short heat cycles are practical on inverters and generators. For best results off-grid, run short bursts during peak solar and avoid using other high-draw appliances at the same time.
Flatbed vs turntable—what’s better in a van?
Flatbeds (like the NCE 23 L Flatbed) maximise usable space and remove moving parts. Turntables are familiar and work well for everyday reheats. Choose by cavity size and the dishes you use most often.
Can I retrofit a microwave or rangehood into an existing cabinet?
Usually yes. Measure the aperture and depth, check clearances on the product page, and use the recommended trim kit or brackets. For electrical connections and any 240 V work, use a licensed installer.
Do I need ducting for a caravan rangehood?
Some models recirculate through filters; others can be ducted outside. Follow the model’s instructions—short, smooth duct runs work best if your layout supports them. Recirculating installs are common and effective when filters are kept clean.
Will a 12 V rangehood keep up with steam and odours?
Yes, within the small volume of a caravan galley. Use lids on pots, run the hood early in the cook and keep filters clean to maintain airflow. Pairing with a flatbed microwave’s covers reduces moisture further.
Any tips for off-grid cooking with a microwave?
Batch-cook and reheat in short sessions; prefer lower-power settings for longer, gentler heating; and schedule microwaving during strong sun so your charger supports the inverter. Our Off-Grid Power Guide explains system planning in detail.