One of the first questions everyone asks when hiring a temporary kitchen is: "What actually comes with it?" The answer varies slightly between providers and kitchen types, but most domestic temporary kitchens include a surprisingly complete set of appliances.
Here's what to expect, what you'll need to supply yourself, and a few extras that make life easier.
What's Included (Standard)
Most domestic temporary kitchen pods — whether driveway pods or indoor capsules — come with these appliances fitted and ready to use:
Cooking
- Two-ring induction hob — the most common setup across almost all providers. Induction is used because it's fast, energy-efficient, and safer than gas (no open flame in a compact space). Some providers use ceramic hobs instead
- Small oven or combination microwave-oven — larger driveway pods usually include a dedicated small oven (around 30–40 litres). Compact pods and capsule kitchens typically have a combination microwave that can function as both a microwave and a conventional oven
- Kettle socket — a dedicated socket for your kettle (you'll need to bring your own kettle)
Refrigeration
- Under-counter fridge — standard in all unit types. Usually 80–130 litres, comparable to a hotel mini-fridge or small bar fridge
- Small freezer compartment — some fridges include a small icebox-style freezer compartment. Not all do, so ask if this matters to you
Water
- Sink with hot and cold water — connected to your mains water supply via a hose. Hot water is provided by a small inline heater or mini boiler built into the unit
- Drainer — most sinks have an integrated draining area or a small draining board
Other
- LED lighting — built-in ceiling or under-cabinet lighting
- Worktop — laminate or composite worktop surface, usually 1–1.5 metres of usable space
- Splashback — behind the hob and sink areas
- Power sockets — 1–2 additional sockets for your own appliances (toaster, kettle)
- Ventilation — extractor fan or vent, especially important in indoor capsule kitchens
What You'll Need to Bring
Temporary kitchens come with appliances but generally not with crockery, cookware, or utensils. You'll need:
Essential (Bring From Your Old Kitchen)
- Kettle
- Toaster
- Pots and pans — check they're induction-compatible (magnetic base). A fridge magnet test works: if a magnet sticks to the bottom, it'll work on induction. Most stainless steel and cast iron pans are fine. Aluminium and copper won't work
- Chopping board (at least two — one for raw meat, one for everything else)
- Kitchen knives
- Cooking utensils (spatula, wooden spoon, tongs, ladle)
- Plates, bowls, cups, glasses
- Cutlery
- Tea towels and oven gloves
- Washing-up liquid and sponge
- Bin (a small pedal bin fits well)
Nice to Have
- Slow cooker — an absolute game-changer in a temporary kitchen. It frees up both hob rings and lets you batch cook
- Electric steamer — cooks vegetables while both hob rings are occupied
- Toastie maker or air fryer — quick meals without using the oven
- Washing-up bowl — the sink is small, so a separate soaking bowl helps
- Over-door hooks or a small shelving unit — extra storage for mugs, utensils, and towels
What Not to Bring
- Large appliances — there's no room for a stand mixer, bread maker, or food processor. Stick to compact items
- Non-induction pans — leave the copper saucepan set behind. It won't work on the hob
- Too much crockery — bring enough for your household plus a few spares, not your full dinner set
Variations Between Providers
Not every provider supplies exactly the same equipment. When comparing quotes, ask specifically:
| Question | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Oven or combination microwave? | An oven is more versatile for roasting and baking |
| Fridge size and does it have a freezer? | Bigger fridge = less frequent shopping |
| How many hob rings? | Most offer 2, some larger units have 3 |
| Is a kettle included? | Most don't include a kettle — bring your own |
| Hot water — inline or boiler? | Both work fine, boiler is usually faster |
| Extractor fan included? | Important for indoor capsules to avoid cooking smells |
Upgrading Your Setup
Some providers offer optional extras for an additional fee:
- Fridge-freezer upgrade — larger fridge with a proper freezer compartment
- Dishwasher — available on the largest driveway pods (rare but it exists)
- Additional hob ring — three-ring models available from some providers
- Microwave — if the unit has an oven, a separate microwave may be available as an add-on
- Outdoor table and chairs — some providers offer a small bistro set for driveway pods
Ask about these when you request a quote. Our choosing the right temporary kitchen guide also covers specification differences in detail.
The Bottom Line
A standard temporary kitchen comes with everything you need to cook proper meals — hob, oven or combi microwave, fridge, sink, hot water, and worktop space. You supply the cookware, crockery, and a kettle.
The single most important thing to check before delivery: are your pans induction-compatible? If not, pick up a basic induction-compatible saucepan set. A 3-piece set from a supermarket costs around £20–30 and will see you through the entire hire.
Ready to find the right temporary kitchen? Get a quote and we'll match you with providers in your area.