Best Camping Cookware Sets 2020
The Best Camping Cookware Equipment for Your Car or Backpacking Trip
If you are an outdoor enthusiast, then you know how fulfilling it is to wind your day with a hot meal in your belly by the campfire. But preparing meals outdoors is never a walk in the park because you are separated from the conveniences of a normal kitchen, and if you want to enjoy the meal, you will have to carry along the right camping cookware, and ingredients or you will have to improvise. In this article, we will show you the best camping cookware and some great recipes. We will also highlight our favorite mess kit, and our favorite backpacking cookware that is super portable; Both of these will make backpacking easier!
Looking for some great camping recipes? Check out our camping Pinterest board.
Owing to the remoteness of some of the places people venture into, and especially if you are backpacking solo, it is of utmost importance that you get every essential you will need for the safe and comfortable preparation of a hot meal. Even with all the ingredients, if you don’t have the right cookware, you could be staring at long, lonely and hungry evenings. In this piece, we show you how to choose the the best camping cookware and also give you recommendation on some of the best campfire cooking sets you can check out for your next outdoor adventure.
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Best Camping Cookware Sets for 2020
Now that you understand the importance of choosing the right cookware for your camping, as well as what to look for those pieces, here are reviews of some of the best camping cookware sets worth considering in 2020-:
Stanley Camp Cook Set – Our Favorite Camping Cookware Set
- IDEAL OUTDOOR ACCESSORIES: The Stanley cook kit is perfect for outdoor cooking for hot meals, coffee, or boiling water. Our cooking pots come with a vented top to let steam escape or strain liquid. This is a great survival supplies gift too.
- VERSATILE HANDLE: We designed the handle to provide maximum comfort and stability while it's on the stove. The locking handle extends for stable cooking but folds over the lid to save space with the rest of your gear.
- DURABLE AND BPA-FREE: The kettle / coffee maker is constructed with 18/8 stainless steel and features two insulated ceramic portable 10oz/295mL tumblers to enjoy hot and cold beverages. The entire kit is made with BPA free materials.
If you want versatility, convenience and shorter cook times when backpacking, then you have every reason to consider the Stanley cook set. It is made of stainless steel, with ventilated lids that make it possible for campers to use the set over grills or campfire stoves. I personally think this is one of the best camping cookware sets if you are car camping. The other notable features include-:
Locking handles – the set has locking handles which are very practical for cooking and folding to further save on space.
Lifetime warranty – just like any other Stanley product, this camping cookware comes with a lifetime warranty, given that it is free from defects – either from materials or workmanship. It is designed to be thermally efficient for life.
Rugged and durable – the cookware is built for the wild – it is rugged and durable, and it won’t even rust under tough conditions.
What People Are Saying About the Stanley Camping Cookware Set:
“Excellent quality stove top mug for camping. Materials are lightweight and durable and the workmanship is high quality. The handle flips open and closed easily with just a light squeeze to release. When closed, the handle holds the lid and the two plastic cups inside all firmly in place. The stainless finish has held up so far after 3 – 4 uses with no signs of rust. I’ve only boiled water over a portable gas stove, so I cannot comment on how it holds up to soot stains from a wood or coal fire.[/wpsm_box]
Pros of the Stanley Camping Cookware Set:
- Made of tough and durable stainless steel
- It comes with insulated cups
- Has a locking handle for more efficiency in storage
Cons of the Stanley Camping Cookware Set:
- Not ideal for use on bottle top stoves
- It is not non-sticky. Stuff other than water sticks
- Too narrow for some users
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MSR Trail Cooking Set – The Best MSR Cookware Set
- Compact nesting design fits two DeepDish Bowls and Double-Wall Insulated Mugs inside pot.
- Includes 2.0 L Hard-Anodized Aluminum Pot w/ strainer lid, (2) Double-Wall Insulated Mugs, (2) DeepDish Bowls
- BPA-Free: Hot and cold-safe polypropylene DeepDish bowls and double-wall insulated mugs.
Another option for the best camping cookware that will not disappoint you during your backpacking endeavors is the MSR Trail Cooking Set. The simplicity of the set may undermine its efficiency, and you will never understand its full capabilities until you try it out. Some of the features you will fall in love with about this cookware include-:
A compact nesting design that fits two DeepDish bowls as well double-walled insulated mugs
Hard-anodized pot – the camping kitchen set also features a hard –anodized aluminum pot that includes a strainer lid.
BPA-Free: hot and cold items placed in the pot will maintain their temperatures. Give you the versatility to take your meals just at the right temperatures you had desired.
Pros Of the MSR Trail Backpacking Cooking Set:
- Compact design
- Has enough room for other utensils
- Long lasting
Cons Of the MSR Trail Backpacking Cooking Set:
- Plastic lid for the pot is not heat resistant
- Ideal for no more than two campers.
What People Are Saying About the MSR Camping Cookware set:
“Excellent quality stove top mug for camping. Materials are lightweight and durable and the workmanship is high quality. The handle flips open and closed easily with just a light squeeze to release. When closed, the handle holds the lid and the two plastic cups inside all firmly in place. The stainless finish has held up so far after 3 – 4 uses with no signs of rust. I’ve only boiled water over a portable gas stove, so I cannot comment on how it holds up to soot stains from a wood or coal fire.”
Pros of the MSR Camping Cookware set:
- Made of tough and durable stainless steel
- It comes with insulated cups
- Has a locking handle for more efficiency in storage
Cons of the MSR Camping Cookware set:
- Not ideal for use on bottle top stoves
- It is not non-sticky. Stuff other than water sticks
- Too narrow for some users
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GSI Outdoor Nesting Cook Set
- TOUGH IN ANY TERRAIN: The Bugaboo Camper's included pot and frypan are coated with Teflon Classic. Plus, with a crushproof, heat-resistant, nylon strainer lid you now have the ultimate outdoor dish. The pot and lid combo are perfect for stovetop use.
- COMPACT CAMPING: The set is ingeniously designed to nest into the stuff sack that doubles as a sink for washing. Weighing only 3lbs 11oz, you can take it anywhere your adventure leads you.
- FEAST IN THE FOREST: The Bugaboo Camper is a versatile cookset for family camping. This set includes a 3L pot, 2L pot, 9" frypan, two nylon strainer lids, four plates, four mugs, four sip through lids, four bowls, a pot handle, and a stuff sack/sink.
The GSI Backpacking Cookware is another worthy option if you don’t want a lot of disappointment in your camping cooking experience. This is a must have for anyone looking for the best backpacking cookware. Some of the great features in this set include-:
Toughness in all terrain – this backpacking mess set is designed to work in virtually all terrains with the same efficiency. The design is compact and ingeniously designed to completely nest in the stuff sack which can also be used as a washing sink while camping.
Tough and durable – the cookware is a product of stainless steel, thus making it tough and durable. Additionally, unlike other cheap cookware, it is non-stick so you won’t have to worry about getting your cooking messed up during the process.
Large enough – this is the cookware set you need when you go out camping as a family. It is not only big, but include essentials such as nylon strainer lids, two pots, a sink, and a cutting board.
What People Are Saying About the GSI Outdoor Nesting Backpacking Cookware set:
“Excellent quality stove top mug for camping. Materials are lightweight and durable and the workmanship is high quality. The handle flips open and closed easily with just a light squeeze to release. When closed, the handle holds the lid and the two plastic cups inside all firmly in place. The stainless finish has held up so far after 3 – 4 uses with no signs of rust. I’ve only boiled water over a portable gas stove, so I cannot comment on how it holds up to soot stains from a wood or coal fire. This is some of the best backpacking cookware on the market.”
Pros of the GSI Outdoor Nesting Cook Set:
- Ideal for family camping
- Strong and durable
- Versatile in applications
Cons of the GSI Outdoor Nesting Cook Set:
- The handles may sometimes get very hot
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Wuudi Outdoor Camping Pot and Pan – The Best Camping Cookware of 2020
- INCREDIBLE VALUE-This two piece set (including the carry bag) is an incredible value for the money. You will get one Aluminum alloy pot,one Aluminum alloy bowls.It is perfect size for 1 youth scout or adult hiker backpacker.
- DURABLE,COMPACT AND LIGHTWEIGHT-- It is incredible easy to clean this set with the included loofah cleaning sponge. The entire set weighs only 224g which is very lightweight and this set is extremely east to store and is compact. This set is perfect for camping, backpacking, hiking, emergency preparedness, or as part of a survival kit.
- BACKPACKING NECESSITY--For the ourdoor activities who hikes, camps, you know that you need camping cookware. This set is perfect because of its small, compact size and incredible value. You are sure to love this camping cooking set. Both the pot and pan have folding handles for space saving and compactness.
Our final recommendation on the best camping cookware is the Wuudi Outdoor Camping Pot and Pan. This two piece set comes with its own carrying bag and it features an aluminum alloy pot and an aluminum alloy bowl. It is ideal for a solo youth scout or a single adult backpacker. Some of the notable features you will love about this set include-:
Durability – the set is compact and durable, making it easy to clean, store and carry. The weight of the entire set is about 224g.
Backpacking necessity – it is highly suitable for all kinds of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and backpacking.
Save space – due to its small size, its space requirements is negligible. It won’t take up all the space in your backpack.
What People Are Saying About the Wuudi Outdoor Camping Pot and Pan:
“Excellent quality stove top mug for camping. Materials are lightweight and durable and the workmanship is high quality. The handle flips open and closed easily with just a light squeeze to release. When closed, the handle holds the lid and the two plastic cups inside all firmly in place. The stainless finish has held up so far after 3 – 4 uses with no signs of rust. I’ve only boiled water over a portable gas stove, so I cannot comment on how it holds up to soot stains from a wood or coal fire.”
Pros of the Wuudi Outdoor Camping Pot and Pan:
- Has a compact design
- Durable
- Versatile and affordable
Cons of the Wuudi Outdoor Camping Pot and Pan:
- Small and ideal for lone backpackers
- Has a poor quality coating
- Handles made of plastic. Can easily get too hot
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Mallome Camping Cookware Mess Kit – The Best Backpacking Mess Kit
- BUILT TO LAST! BEWARE OF CHEAP KNOCK OFFS! Highest Quality FDA APPROVED Non-Toxic Anodized Aluminum Camping Cookset conducts heat quickly and is survival gear that is built to last and is perfect size for 1 youth scout or adult hiker backpacker. EASY CLEANING & STORAGE: Entire 10 piece mess kit collapses into small bundle for easy control and storage
- BEST MONEY EVER SPENT: The MalloMe 18 Piece Camping Campfire Cookware Mess Kit includes Anodized Aluminum Nonstick Pot (1 Liter Capacity) + Pot Cover + Nonstick Pan + 2 BPA Free Bowls + Folding Stainless Steel Spork + BPA Free Soup Spoon + Wooden Spoon Spatula + Cleaning Sponge + Nylon Travel Bag Drawstring Pouch + Fire Starter + Burner and other accessories + Perfect Marshmallow Roasting and Smores Making Guide with 10 Recipes Ebook!
- WORRY FREE WILDERNESS: Finally enjoy the great outdoors without second guessing if you packed everything to cook and serve your next meal with the lightweight, compact, and mobile design of the MalloMe Camp Kitchen Set
If you are in the market in search of the best backpacking mess kit, then you will not be disappointed with the Mallome Camping Cookware Mess Kit. Its affordable price may make you think less of its value, but it has been built to last and to provide you with the best performance when you out in the jungle enjoying camping. The set is made of non-toxic hard-anodized aluminum steel that heats quickly so help you save on the cooking gas. It is a 10 piece mess kit that easily collapses into a tiny bundle that you can carry and store without any problem. This is our favorite choice for the best backpacking mess kit.
What People Are Saying About the Mallome Backpacking Mess Kit:
“Excellent quality stove top mug for camping. Materials are lightweight and durable and the workmanship is high quality. The handle flips open and closed easily with just a light squeeze to release. When closed, the handle holds the lid and the two plastic cups inside all firmly in place. The stainless finish has held up so far after 3 – 4 uses with no signs of rust. I’ve only boiled water over a portable gas stove, so I cannot comment on how it holds up to soot stains from a wood or coal fire.”
Pros of the Mallome Backpacking Mess Kit:
- It is built to last
- Easy to clean and store
- Includes up to 10 pieces
Cons of the Mallome Backpacking Mess Kit:
- Poorly designed knob lid
- Relatively small
- Light at the bottom
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Our Expert Buying Guide to Finding the Best Camping Cookware
With so many options for the best camping cookware available in the market today, it can be overwhelming and confusing at the same time to know what to buy and what to leave. Some people are normally tempted to take as much as they possibly can so that they don’t run the risk of missing an essential item.
However, such worry and hullaballoo can be avoided if you gain some clarity on what essentials you need and why you need them. To help you figure out the best camping cookware that you need to take on your upcoming trip,we have narrowed down some key factors you should consider while making your choices-:
Your camping cooking setup
The first consideration you need to make on camping cookware is your cooking set up. Will you be preparing meals for you or you will be having company, and if so, how many? Will you be setting up a new kitchen on the campsite, or you will go to a camping facility with some kitchen equipment? Knowing these and keenly probing your cooking set up will give you the clarity you need to know exactly what you should carry and what you should leave behind when going for the camp. If you don’t know your setup it’s hard to narrow down the choices of the best camping cookware.
Types of materials
Camping cookware is available in a variety of materials, but this is no guarantee that all of them will be suitable for your needs. All the materials have their merits and demerits, and the best way to settle down on the choice of material is to simply consider your preferences at home. For example, if you know you are pro aluminum, titanium or stainless steel, then consider such options for your camping cookware because you are well aware of their capabilities and you know exactly what you will be expecting from them.
Think about the pieces you need
When going camping or backpacking, it is a fact that you will not need every item you usually use in your home kitchen. To this effect, it is imperative that you carefully consider the pots, lids, utensils, bowls, cups, and cutlery you are likely to need. Remember that your camping kitchen will greatly depend on the number of mouths you will be feeding, your intended activities and how often you will want to cook. Always go for the essentials and don’t overbuy if you can’t figure out why you need it.
The weight
If you will be backpacking, then the last thing you want is a huge load on your back, but if you are car camping, then the loads you carry will not be a huge factor. For most backpackers, traveling light is always desired, and you don’t want to inflate the load on your back with what you will be cooking on. Therefore, be careful with the weight of the items you will be carrying along for your meal preparations.
Versatility
If you can get cookware that can do for you more than one activity during camping, then this will be more ideal than taking multiple pieces. While doing your shopping, check on the versatility of the cookware so that you limit the total number of pieces, as well as the overall load you will have to deal with. The best camping cookware should be able to do a lot for a little amount of space
Cooking time
When thinking about cooking time, you should not just think about being hungry and impatient while on the camping site. Low cooking time will help you save on gas. The cooking time will depend on the type of materials used in making the cookware. For example, the time needed to boil water in an aluminum pot varies from the time needed to boil the same amount of water in a stainless steel pot. Choose wisely.
Conclusion on the Best Camping Cookware Options of 2020
Preparing meals during a camping trip should be fun. It takes you away from the comfort of your normal kitchen and makes you become creative with your meals. For a good experience and well-prepared meals, the cookware you choose is very important. From this review, we hope that you have learned what you need to consider when choosing the best camping cookware and we also hope that our reviews of best backpacking and camping cookware will go a long way in helping you have a more fulfilling camping experience.
Looking for some great camping recipes? Check out our camping Pinterest board.