Embarking on a camping adventure in your RV? The right dinnerware can make all the difference in ensuring that your meals are enjoyable and hassle-free. But what are the best dishes for RV camping?
Some of the best dishes for use in an RV while camping include:
- US Acrylic Newport Plastic Plate, Bowl, and Tumbler 12 Piece Dinnerware Set
- Yinshine Melamine 12 Piece Dinnerware set
- Preserve Reusable BPA-Free 12 Piece Tableware Set Made from Recycled Plastic
- Aidio Melamine 12 Piece Dinnerware Set
- Camp Casual Melamine Plates & Bowls Set
- Coleman 24-Piece Enamel Dinnerware Set
- Craft & Kin Melamine 12 Piece Dinnerware Set
But those are just a few of my top 16 best RV dishes! Down below, I’ll explore each of them with pros, cons, and images, so you can make the very best choice.
With an array of materials and designs to choose from, selecting the perfect RV dishes may seem daunting. Fret not! We’ve got you covered with a comprehensive guide to the best dishes for RV camping, tailored to suit different preferences and needs.
Read on to discover the top materials, designs, and factors to consider when choosing the perfect dish set for your RV.
Key Takeaways
- This article provides a comprehensive guide to the 16 best dishes for RV camping, with reviews and buying advice.
- Consider factors such as durability, weight, ease of cleaning, material & style when choosing RV dishes.
- Eco-friendly alternatives include wheat straw plates or bamboo bowls made from recycled plastic – all microwave-safe!
Best Types of Dishes for Camping
Choosing the right materials and designs for your recreational vehicle dishes that cater to your specific needs is vital. After all, you will be transporting these dishes on your RV trips in a moving vehicle like a travel trailer or motorhome. Going over speedbumps, hitting potholes, or having to brake suddenly can easily break fragile dishes.
And even if they are safely stowed away in your RV cabinets, just being stacked on top of one another can still cause ceramic dishes to break.
Some of the best types of dishes for camping include:
- Melamine
- Enamel-coated
- Plastic
- Wheat straw
- Stainless steel
Before making a decision, take time to understand the unique advantages and disadvantages each material offers.
We’ll provide a deeper analysis of these materials in the subsequent sections, discussing their benefits and drawbacks. Additionally, we’ll provide a list of the top 16 best dishes for RV camping.
Whether you’re looking for lightweight dishes or eco-friendly alternatives, you’re sure to find the perfect set to accompany you on your camping adventures.
Melamine Dishes
Melamine dishes are a popular choice for RV camping due to their lightweight and durable nature. These dishes are made from a plastic alternative to ceramic dishes, renowned for their robustness and strength.
One of the main advantages of melamine dishes is their attractive design and antibacterial properties. However, since they are not approved for a microwave oven and can be easily scratched, careful handling is necessary.
Overall, melamine dishes offer a balance of durability, style, and practicality that makes them an excellent choice for RV camping.
Enamel-coated Dishes
Enamel-coated dishes are another popular option for RV camping, boasting non-stick properties, extended longevity, and a cut and scratch-resistant surface. These dishes are coated with a layer of enamel, a type of glass-like material that enhances durability and makes them easier to clean.
However, enamel-coated dishes may be prone to chipping or scratching over time. Despite these drawbacks, enamel-coated dishes remain a durable and easy-to-clean choice for RV camping.
Plastic Dishes
Plastic dishes, such as plastic plates, are a cost-effective and lightweight option for RV camping. They offer several benefits, such as being water and shock-resistant, chemical and heat-resistant, and BPA-free.
However, plastic dishes may not be as long-lasting or environmentally friendly as other alternatives like melamine or enamel-coated dishes. Following proper care and storage instructions is vital in ensuring the longevity and safety of your plastic dishes.
Wheat Straw Dishes
Wheat straw dishes are an eco-friendly alternative to traditional RV dishes. Here are some key features of wheat straw dishes.
- Made from natural organic wheat straw fiber
- Lightweight and durable
- 100% BPA-free, non-toxic, and odorless
- Microwave safe, but not suitable for oven use
If you’re looking for an environmentally-conscious option for your RV dishes, wheat straw dishes are a fantastic choice.
Stainless Steel Dishes
Stainless steel dishes might be the best dinnerware for RVs as they offer a durable and easy-to-clean option for RV camping. These dishes are crafted from a strong and corrosion-resistant metal alloy, providing excellent longevity and resistance to stains.
Although stainless steel dishes may not be as visually appealing as other options, their durability and ease of cleaning make them a practical choice for RV camping.
Top Pick for RV Camping Dishes
Euodia Wheat Straw Plastic Dinnerware Set for 6 – Under $40
This amazing 18 piece dish set seemingly has it all; Dishwasher and microwave Safe. But it’s also made from non-breakable material and is lightweight, eco-friendly, and BPA-free.
No other option has ALL of those features. 2 color options as well.
Over 700 near-perfect reviews and at a reasonable price that can’t be beat! Save yourself the hassle and money, and get this set and you’ll likely never have to buy another set as long as you own your RV. Get these before your next road trip.
But here are my recommendations on the rest of the . . .
17 Best Dishes for RV Camping
Having explored the different types of materials available for RV dishes, let’s reveal our top 16 picks for the best dishes for RV camping. From melamine dinnerware sets to eco-friendly wheat straw plates, this list offers a variety of options to suit different preferences and needs.
Whether you’re looking for a stylish set to impress your fellow campers or a practical option that can withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures, these top-rated dishes have got you covered.
Continue reading to find the perfect dish set that will elevate your RV camping experience.
1. US Acrylic Newport Plastic Plate, Bowl, and Tumbler 12 Piece Dinnerware Set – Under $20
This set includes 46” bowls, 48.5” salad plates, and 41” dinner plates, providing a comprehensive range of sizes for any occasion.
Crafted from plastic, these dishes are BPA-Free, microwave, and dishwasher-safe, making them convenient and safe for outdoor dining.
2. Yinshine Melamine 12 Piece Dinnerware set – Under $45
The Yinshine Melamine Dinnerware set is an elegant and practical choice for RV camping, offering an attractive design and durable construction. This set includes four 7-inch bowls, four 8-inch dessert platters, and four 10-inch dinner plates, making it perfect for any dining occasion.
Although melamine dishes are not microwave-safe, they are dishwasher-safe, allowing for easy cleaning and maintenance.
3. Preserve Reusable BPA-Free 12 Piece Tableware Set Made from Recycled Plastic – Under $25
For those looking for an eco-friendly option, the Preserve Reusable BPA Free Everyday Tableware Set Made from Recycled Plastic is an excellent choice. This set includes plates, bowls, and tumblers made from recycled plastic that is BPA-free and food-safe.
The dishes, perfect for camping dishes, are lightweight, unbreakable, and dishwasher and microwave-safe, making them a convenient and safe dining option for outdoor and RV camping.
4. Aidio Melamine 12 Piece Dinnerware Set – Under $45
Aidio Melamine Dinnerware. Sets feature a sophisticated design with generously sized cereal bowls, dinner plates, and salad plates. Crafted from durable melamine, these dishes are perfect for outdoor use and are BPA-free, shatter-resistant, color-proof, lightweight, safe, non-toxic, odorless, easy to clean, and dishwasher-safe.
The Aidio Melamine Dinnerware Sets offer both style and reliability for your RV camping adventures.
5. Camp Casual Set of 4 Melamine Bowls with Lids – Under $35
Camp Casual Melamine Bowls with lids are a fantastic choice for convenient and safe meal and snack times. These BPA-free bowls offer an attractive design and practicality, with lids perfect for storing leftovers or serving meals.
The nesting feature allows for easy storage, and the FDA-approved melamine material ensures a safe and enjoyable dining experience.
6. Marjoy Melamine 12 Piece Dinnerware Set – Under $45
The Marjoy Melamine Dinnerware. The Set is a stylish and practical option for RV camping.
This set includes plates, bowls, and mugs made from melamine, a strong yet lightweight material. The dinnerware set is top-shelf dishwasher-safe but like all melamine products is NOT microwave safe.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal, this melamine dinnerware set is an excellent choice.
7. Camp Casual Melamine Plates & Bowls Set – Under $40
The Camp Casual Melamine Plates & Bowls. The Set is a 12-piece set that includes four dinner plates, four salad plates, and four bowls. Made from 100% melamine, these plates and bowls are FDA-approved and BPA-free. They are heat resistant up to 212°F and top-shelf dishwasher safe, although not microwave safe.
The RV dish set is conveniently packaged in a reusable box with a handle for easy storage and transportation, perfect for your RV kitchen. The plates and bowls feature richly colored and artistic RV graphics.
8. Coleman 24-Piece Enamel Dinnerware Set – Under $40
The Coleman 24-Piece Enamel Dinnerware Set consists of:
- 4 cups
- 4 bowls
- 4 plates
- 4 knives
- 4 forks
- 4 spoons
This set provides a stylish and durable dining experience, making it ideal for family camping. Durable, double-fired enamelware is a great balance between the class of ceramic dinnerware and something durable and non-breakable.
Dishwasher safe, but of course, not microwave-safe.
9. Craft & Kin Melamine 12 Piece Dinnerware Set – Under $50
Craft & Kin Melamine Dinnerware. Sets offer a complete 12-piece set for 4 people, including 4 large dinner plates, 4 salad or dessert plates, and 4 bowls. This dinnerware is made from lightweight melamine, making it shatter-resistant, dishwasher-safe, and easy to handle, offering a convenient and safe dining experience.
The set is available in various colors and designs, ensuring that there is an option to suit everyone’s tastes. An Amazon’s Choice product with over 2,300 near-perfect reviews.
10. Yinshine Rustic Melamine 12 Piece Dinnerware Set – $40
The Yinshine Rustic Melamine Dinnerware. The Set is an elegant set of dinnerware crafted from melamine. It includes four 7-inch bowls, four 8-inch dessert platters, and four 10-inch dinner plates, making it the perfect choice for any dining occasion.
The set is top-shelf dishwasher-safe but not microwave-safe, making it easy to clean and maintain.
11. Stansport Stansport 24-Piece Enamel Camping Tableware Set – Under $40
The Stansport Stansport 24-Piece Enamel Camping Tableware. Set includes:
- 4 cups
- 4 bowls
- 4 plates
- 4 knives
- 4 forks
- 4 spoons
It is a stylish and durable set of tableware crafted from high-quality steel and double-coated with a glazed enamel finish. This set is ideal for family RV use.
The set is finished in a stunning blue enamel. An Amazon’s Choice product with over 6,100 near-perfect reviews.
12. CAMBUY Wheat Straw Plates Lightweight Unbreakable Dinner Dishes Plates Set – Under $10
The CAMBUY Wheat Straw Plates Lightweight Unbreakable Dinner Dishes Plates. Set includes:
- Dinner dishes and plates made from eco-friendly and food-safe materials
- Lightweight and unbreakable design
- Anti-skid plate bottom
- Smooth round edges
- Suitable for various meals and occasions
Crafted from eco-friendly and food-safe materials, they are dishwasher and microwave-safe.
13. FOODLE Wheat Straw Dinnerware Sets for 4 – Under $40
FOODLE Wheat Straw Dinnerware Sets for 4 are an excellent choice for everyday use.
- Constructed from natural wheat straw fiber and food-grade PP
- Lightweight and unbreakable
- 100% BPA-free, non-toxic, and odorless
- Microwave safe (not suitable for oven use)
If you’re looking for an environmentally-conscious option for your RV dishes, wheat straw dishes are a fantastic choice.
14. Amazon Basics 12-Piece Melamine Dinnerware Set – Under $40
The Amazon Basics 12-Piece Melamine Dinnerware. The Set is an excellent choice for everyday use, both indoors and outdoors. It is composed of 100% melamine material, which makes it highly durable and break-resistant.
The set includes service for 4 with dinner plates, salad plates, and bowls, and is also BPA-free.
15. Gibson Home Melamine Dinnerware 12 Piece Set – Under $25
Gibson Home Melamine Dinnerware. Set is a reliable and break-resistant dinnerware set crafted from melamine, a lightweight and shatterproof material. It is comprised of plates, bowls, and mugs, and comes in a wide range of colors and designs.
The set is dishwasher safe and can withstand high temperatures, making it an excellent choice for both indoor and outdoor use.
16. Corelle Vitrelle Triple Layer Glass and Chip Resistant 18-Piece Service for 6 Dinnerware Set – Under $70 (tons of different colors)
The Corelle Vitrelle Triple Layer Glass and Chip Resistant 18-Piece Service for 6 Dinnerware Set, featuring corelle dishes, includes:
- Triple-layer-strong glass plates and bowls that are highly resistant to chips and cracks
- Lightweight design
- Classic style
- Service for 6 people
This set is an excellent option for RV camping when you want “real” dishes, but don’t want them breaking. That’s due to its chip-resistant, durable, lightweight, and compact nature, as well as its ease of movement.
Factors to Consider When Choosing RV Dishes
Several factors need consideration when selecting the perfect RV dinnerware for your camping adventures.
Durability is a crucial aspect, as you’ll want dishes that can withstand the rigors of RV camping without breaking or chipping. Melamine and enamel-coated dishes are excellent choices for their durability and resistance to breakage.
Another important factor is the weight of the dishes. Lightweight options, such as melamine and plastic dishes, are easier to transport and less prone to breakage. Ease of cleaning is also essential, so opt for dishwasher-safe options to make your life easier. The material of the dishes should also be taken into account, with melamine, enamel-coated, and wheat straw dishes being popular choices.
Lastly, consider the style of the dishes to ensure they match your personal preferences and the overall aesthetic of your RV.
Summary
In conclusion, selecting the perfect RV dishes for your camping adventures involves considering factors such as durability, weight, ease of cleaning, material, and style.
With a variety of materials and designs available, including melamine, enamel-coated, plastic, wheat straw, and stainless steel, there is an option to suit everyone’s preferences and needs. By making informed choices and taking proper care of your dinnerware, you can ensure that your RV dishes last for many memorable camping trips to come.
Now that you’ve got something to eat on, how are you cooking your food?
In a recent article, I breakdown the best camping skillets to bring in an RV. I’m talking easy to clean, even heating, and easy to store with great durability. And you won’t believe how good the prices are.
Just click that link to read it on my site.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of plates are best in an RV?
Melamine plates are the best option for RVers because they’re lightweight, shatterproof, affordable, and come in a variety of colors and designs.
They are also easy to clean and maintain, making them a great choice for those who are on the go. The plates come in a variety of sizes, so you can find the perfect fit for your RV.
Typically top-shelf dishwasher-safe but not microwave-safe.
Is Corelle good for RVs?
Corelle represents a line of dishware and glass items. Its composition is from Vitrelle, which is a fortified glass made by fusing two different types of glass into a three-layer structure.
Though care needs to be taken with Corelle camper dinnerware, it can still be suitable for use in RVs. But I would avoid stacking them against each other in your cabinets. Bubble-wrap moving sleeves could be a good option.
What is the best way to pack dishes in an RV?
Packing dishes in an RV demands a bit of strategy.
Start with non-slip shelf liners to keep dishes from sliding around. Stack plates horizontally, to minimize breakage risk. If you have ceramic or glass china, use padded separators or even simple dish towels between them to prevent chipping.
Nesting bowls save space, but again, padding in between is key.
For glasses or delicate items, consider sturdy containers or specialized storage solutions. Securely latch cabinets and check regularly. Movement is inevitable on the road, but with these steps, you’ll keep your dishes intact and ready for the next meal.
How do you keep dishes from moving in a cabinet when traveling in an RV?
Road trips in an RV mean bumps and turns, which can send dishes dancing in their cabinets.
To keep them stationary, start with non-slip cabinet liners; these grip dishes, and reduce slide. Padded separators or old t-shirts between plates prevent clinking and potential chipping.
For mugs or glasses, look into tension rods: positioning these vertically creates “zones” in cabinets, limiting movement.
If there’s extra space, fill gaps with small towels or bubble wrap to limit shifting. Lastly, consider investing in cabinet locks or childproof latches. Keeping those dishes in place means less rearranging at each stop, and more time enjoying the adventure!
Can melamine dishes be used in a microwave?
Melamine dishes should NOT be used in a microwave, as the intense heat can cause them to crack or melt. It is best to avoid microwaving melamine dishes, as the intense heat can cause them to crack or melt.
What type of RV dishes are totally unbreakable?
The standout contenders for totally unbreakable RV dishes are those made from melamine and high-quality BPA-free plastics.
Melamine dishes mimic the look of ceramic but are lightweight and almost impossible to shatter.
Similarly, dishes crafted from BPA-free plastics are durable, safe for food consumption, and resistant to breaking, even with the occasional bump or drop. While these materials offer peace of mind during your travels, it’s important to note that they aren’t microwave-safe, so always check manufacturer guidelines before heating.
What is the least breakable or chipable RV dishware that isn’t plastic, enamel, or melamine?
Venturing into RV dishware beyond plastic, enamel, or melamine, one standout is Vitrelle by Corelle.
It’s a special three-layer glass laminate that’s thin and lightweight, yet impressively durable. Unlike typical ceramic dishes, Vitrelle resists breaking, cracking, and chipping, even under RV travel stresses.
It’s microwave and oven-safe, a bonus for versatile cooking. Plus, it retains a polished, upscale appearance, ideal for those wanting a touch of elegance on the road. So, if you’re seeking a robust yet refined dishware solution for your RV, Corelle’s Vitrelle lineup might just be your top pick!
CLICK HERE to see it on Amazon.
How do you clean and care for RV dishes?
First, wash them promptly after use to prevent residue buildup.
Most dishes, especially those made of melamine or BPA-free plastics, are dishwasher-safe, but it’s good to check manufacturer labels first. Handwashing with a mild detergent works great too. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers, as they can scratch or dull the surface.
Remember, while these dishes are tough, many aren’t microwave-safe, so steer clear of zapping them. Lastly, store them in a dry, secure spot in your RV to prevent unexpected tumbles during transit.
What eco-friendly materials can be used for RV dishes?
Wheat straw, bamboo, and recycled plastic are great options for eco-friendly RV dishes.
These materials are all sustainable, durable, and affordable. They can be used to make plates, bowls, and cups that are perfect for camping trips and other outdoor activities. Plus, they have a lot of money to spend.
What are the microwave-safe options for RV dishes?
Ceramic and other dinnerware that explicitly state microwave-safe are the microwave-safe options for RV dishes. Melamine or enamel dishes should not be used in a microwave, as they can become damaged due to the microwaves.
Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines before microwaving your RV dishes to ensure they are safe for this purpose.
Is there an RV dish material that is chip-resistant, microwave-safe, and dishwasher-safe?
Corelle’s Vitrelle dishes are an excellent choice for RV enthusiasts.
This three-layer glass laminate is celebrated for its resilience against chipping and is impressively lightweight, ideal for RV storage. What makes Vitrelle even more appealing is its compatibility with both microwaves and dishwashers, ensuring convenience alongside durability.
For those seeking RV dishes that can withstand the journey and offer modern convenience in cooking and cleaning, Corelle’s Vitrelle stands out.
CLICK HERE to see it on Amazon.
What are eco-friendly alternatives to traditional RV dishes?
Wheat straw, bamboo, and recycled plastic dishes are eco-friendly alternatives to traditional RV dishes and paper plates. These materials are better for the environment and offer unique benefits, such as being lightweight, unbreakable, and microwave-safe.
By choosing eco-friendly alternatives, you can enjoy your camping trips while minimizing your impact on the environment.
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