6 Best Camping Cookware: Ultralight Cookware to Make Camping Easy

If you like camping and hiking, you should ensure that you carry the best camping cookware to spice up your adventure. Outdoor cooking has a way of rejuvenating your spirits! 

However, it can become quite a challenge if you use the wrong cookware. Never let heavy, and unstackable cookware destroy your camping moods. 

This article enumerates several factors that you should consider when shopping for the best camping cookware. This way, you can be sure that you’ll get light yet efficient pots and pans for your bush cooking!

Features of the Best Camping Cookware

If you want to get the best camping and hiking experience, you should ensure that your cookware sets have the following unique features:

Ultralight

When you’re out on a hiking and camping adventure, the last thing you want is a heavy cookware set that will strain your muscle. However, you’ll also require quite a lot of energy to complete your trails.

As such, a cookware set is a must-have. However, you should ensure that it is super light for guaranteed portability.

Stackable

You should always ensure that your camping cookware is easy-to-carry. When you can stack the pans and pots together, it will reduce the space requirements, making it easy for them to fit in your camping bag. 

Reliable 

It would be frustrating to be in the bush with cookware that cannot serve its need! When you’re shopping for the best camping cookware, you consider the cooking technique you will use.

For example, if you’re carrying a portable NuWave induction cooktop, you should ensure that your cookware is induction ready. If you love cooking in an open place, it would be ideal to buy the best camping cookware for open fire. 

Whichever cooking option you’ll choose, ensure that the cookware you select can work optimally under the given conditions. 

Sturdy Construction and Durability

Unlike ordinary kitchen pans, camping cookware will be subjected to a harsh environment. It will be thrown into the car and shuffled around the campsite! 

As such, you should always ensure that the cookware is made out of durable materials. This way, you will not have to shop every time you need to go hiking and camping.  

Value

When you’re shopping for the best camping cookware, I recommend that you don’t consider pricing as your primary factor. Always value durability and reliability!

Like we’ve earlier indicated, camping cookware are subjected to harsh conditions. As such, poorly constructed pans will not offer value for your money. While you’ll think that you’re saving a few bucks by buying cheap cookware, you’ll spend more in the long run, especially if you hike frequently. 

6 Best Camping Cookware for The Money

1. MalloMe Camping Cookware Mess Kit Gear

There is a reason why the MalloMe Cookware Mess Kit is the best seller at Amazon and other online stores. And that is its efficacy, safety, portability, and stackability. 

The set is built using high-quality non-toxic anodized aluminum designed for fast heat conductivity and even heat distribution. It’s sturdy construction makes it the most ideal camping cookware regardless of location. 

MalloMe cookware mess kit contains 10 items:

• Anodized Aluminum Nonstick Pot 
• Pot Cover
• Nonstick Pan
• 2 Bowls 
• Folding Stainless Steel Spork 
• Soup Spoon
• Wooden Spoon Spatula 
• Cleaning Sponge 
• Nylon Travel Bag Drawstring Pouch

The nylon bag is water-resistant, and you can be sure that your cookware set will remain dry even when you’re mountaineering under wet conditions. 

Additionally, this set is collapsible, and you can stack all the items into a small bundle, making it highly portable. Even better, the set is lightweight, and you will not struggle to carry it in your backpack or lunch coolers.

It is compact and easy to clean. All you will need is warm, soapy water and a sponge (that comes together with the kit) to complete your cleaning in a few minutes. 

2. Stanley Base Camp Cook Set for 4 

This set of 21 components packs all your kitchen convenience. It transfers it to your van, campsites, and other outdoor cooking zones. It includes:

• (1) 3 5L pot 
• Vented lid 
• (1) 7” 3-ply frying pan 
• (1) cutting board 
• (1) spatula 
• (1) serving spoon 
• (4) 6” plates 
• (4) 22oz bowls 
• (4) sporks 
• (1) dish drying rack 
• (1) heat resistant trivet 
• (1) locking bungee

It is built using high-quality 18/8 stainless steel. This construction is sturdy and ideal for hiking and camping. It can withstand harsh handling without getting scratches or altering its shape. It is rust-proof to help beat the highly moist and oxygen-rich outdoor environment. 

Additionally, this camping cookware set is stackable and easy to transport. Its surface is designed for easy cleaning and maintenance, making it easy-to-use even when in remote areas.

Even better, this cookware set comes with a lifetime warranty! Yes, you will get replacements whenever you encounter manufacturer’s defects that reduce their reliability. 

3. Bulin 27/13/11/8/3 PCS Camping Cookware Mess Kit

This camping cookware mess kit is made of non-toxic aluminum material, complete with a nonstick coating. This construction ensures safety and ease of cleaning. 

Additionally, the nonstick coating makes it relatively easy for you to cook with minimal oil. This way, you’re guaranteed healthy eating as you hike and camp.

The hard anodized material used in the Bulin mess kit is ideal for fast heating and high-temperature resistance. As such, you will save a lot of time for other hiking activities since the cooking will be pretty fast. Even better, this set is completed with heat-resistant handles to ensure that you do not burn your fingers during your cooking escapades. 

It is corrosion-resistant, which guarantees longevity even when subjected to harsh environmental conditions. This makes it perfect camping, backpacking, hiking, and picnic cookware set. The set includes:

• 2 pots with lids
• 1 frying pan
• 1 kettle
• 4 BPA -free bowls
• 2 BPA Free plates
• 1 BPA Free foldable soup spoon
• 1 rice ladle
• 1 cleaning sponge

The set is ideal for 2-4 people. Its collapsible design and lightweight nature save a lot of space. The compact nature guarantees comfort as you carry your backpack. 

4. HONEST OUTFITTERS Portable Camping cookware Mess kit 

HONEST OUTFITTERS cookware is constructed using non-toxic anodized aluminum. The set includes:

• 10 pieces for 1-2 adult 
• Nonstick pot (approx. 1 liter capacity)  
• Nonstick pan 
• Pan cover  
• Soupspoon  
• Bamboo spoon  
• Cleaning sponge  
• Nylon travel bag
• 2 BPA Free Bowls
• Folding Stainless Steel Spork

All these items are lightweight and highly portable. The highly stackable and foldable set is packed in a nylon bag that offers protection against adverse weather conditions. 

Additionally, the cookware set is easy-to-clean. All that you will need is warm water, soap, and a cleaning sponge to achieve an incredible sparkle on all the items. 

In terms of efficacy, the HONEST OUTFITTERS set offers excellent heat conductivity and distribution, which guarantees shorter cooking time. You will have no problem making quick-fix meals in the middle of the forest, just before you continue with your hike!

5. G4Free 2/4/13 PCS Camping Cookware Mess Kit 

This unique cookware set comes with a teapot as an extra bonus. As such, you can be sure to enjoy your favorite beverage as you continue with your camping escapades.

It is made out of non-toxic anodized aluminum material that is lightweight and easy to clean. These features ensure that you do not struggle to carry the set using your backpack. Its compact shape and size make it relatively easy to carry without any hassle. 

The set includes 13 uniquely distinct pieces to ensure that you get everything you need to complete your cooking without any strain. The pieces are:

• 1 nonstick pan x 
• 1 pot 
• 1 wooden spatula x 1, 
• 1 mini stove
• 1 stainless steel foldable knife/ 
• 1 fork 
• 1 spoon, 
• 3 bowls 
• 1 spoon set
• 1 carabiner
• 1 loofah sponge

The cookware set is perfect for families or friends out to explore outdoor adventures. It comes with a 100% money-back guarantee in case of manufacturer’s defects. 

6. Terra Hiker Camping Cookware, Nonstick, Lightweight Pots, Pans with Mesh Set Bag

This camping cookware is a 10-piece cookware set designed to satisfy all your camping and hiking needs. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a professional or an amateur backpacker; the Terra Hiker camping cookware kit is undoubtedly ideal for you. 

Its cooking performance is average, with the camping pot boiling approximately 400 ml of water in less than 3 minutes. The kit will come in handy when making breakfast, lunch, and dinner with family and friends. 

The pans and pots are made of non-toxic aluminum, complete with a nonstick coating. The construction makes it possible to clean the cookware within a short time. The bowls are made out of food-grade PP plastic, which is lightweight and safe for use. 

The plastic handles of all the pans are heat-resistant. They are thermally insulated to keep your fingers safe from burns. Its anti-slip design ensures that you get a reassuring grip that will give you the confidence to handle the pans and pots, even when they are full. 

Additionally, this set is highly stackable, making it portable and easy-to-use. It comes with a nylon mesh bag that fits all the items without a hassle. This bag also protects your cookware from getting wet, guaranteeing longevity. 

Best Camping Cookware Buyers Guide

Before you choose your best camping cookware, you should identify your camping needs. Make a checklist that will address the following questions exhaustively:

• How many people will you be cooking for?
• What type of camping trip will you undertake? Car camping or backpacking?
• Which fuel will you use for cooking – gas, charcoal, or open fire?
• What type of cooking will you undertake?

When you answer these questions, you will pick the right size of the cookware. For example, MalloMe is best for one person, while Stanley Base is ideal for 4 people. 

If you’re cooking over an open fire, I recommend that you get cast iron cookware. They may be relatively heavier than other options but will give you the best cooking escapades. However, if you are backpacking, this should not be an option (it is only ideal for car campers). Backpackers should check for lightweight cookware that can support both gas and open fire cooking methods.

What You Need for a Successful Camping

If you’re to be successful in your camping escapades, you should ensure that you have the following items on set:

• Pots with Lids
• Pans
• Kettle
• Pot gripper
• Cutting board
• Cutlery and utensils, such as forks and spatula
• Plates and bowls
• Cups

You can either buy individual items or shop for a camping cookware set. Whichever option you choose, just ensure that you have these items -they will make your camping memorable and fun!

Best Materials for Camping Cookware

Stainless Steel

This is an inexpensive option that offers scratch-resistance and durability. These pans are ideal for both over fire and gas cooking.

However, they may be relatively heavy and not the best for backpackers. 

Aluminum

This is a lightweight cookware option with superior heat conductivity. However, it can dent easily and can react with high acidic/alkaline food. 

Hard-Anodized Aluminum

Most camping cookware sets are made out of this material. The material undergoes electrochemical reactions to harden it and prevent any reaction with acidic foods. It’s lightweight, making the best for hikers. However, it is relatively expensive.

Titanium

This is an incredibly light option ideal for backpackers. However, it is expensive and doesn’t conduct heat as well as hard-anodized aluminum.

Cast Iron

These cookware sets are heavy but reliable, especially when cooking over an open fire. It is durable and best in searing as it retains heat for a longer time. 

Silicone

This is used in the construction of collapsible pots and kettles. It is pricier than most of the other options. 

Non-Stick Cookware

These are the best for preparing eggs, pasta, noodles, and other quick-fixes. However, the pan is susceptible to scratches, and is quite expensive.

Source of Fire

The source of your fire will determine the camping cookware you select. If you want to use charcoal and open fire, ensure that you carry pots and pans to support such fire.

Most importantly, carrying a portable induction cooktop must always be accompanied by induction-ready cookware. Any cookware with a magnetic base will do.

Best Camping Cookware -The Bottom Line

If you love camping and hiking, you should choose the best camping cookware to get unforgettable moments. The pans and pots you choose should be ultralight, collapsible, and highly portable. 

Additionally, the best camping cookware should include all the items you need. You should always ensure that it has pans, pots, cutlery, bowls, cups, cutting boards, and any other item you will need for outdoor cooking.

You should also define your camping nature. This will help you to determine the size and the quantity of the cookware that you need. For example, camping alone will only require a set with singular items. The idea is to only carry what you need, thus reducing the weight that you’ll be required to carry. 

If choosing the best camping cookware is confusing, then worry no more. This guide offers an all-inclusive guide on everything you need to know before stepping out to shop. Read on and buy the best camping cookware for optimal enjoyment of your camping escapades. 

Best Camping Cookware – FAQs