After a long hiking day, it is always great to come back to the camp, and enjoy a hot meal or even a cup of coffee. You will also need to have enough energy to take you through another hiking day. Therefore, if you don’t want to rely on canned foods alone or even freezing dry meals, then you will need to bring along a cookware set. Having the appropriate camping cookware is very essential. Whether you are preparing a multi-course meal or just heating simple food from the can, you need to have the proper cooking tools.

Best 15 Hiking Cookwares - Reviewed

1. AOTU Portable Camping Stoves Backpacking Stove with Piezo Ignition

AOTU Portable Camping Stoves Backpacking Stove with Piezo Ignition Stable Support Wind-Resistance...
  • 1. the burner base is an integrated high-bright...
  • 2.Flame control: Adjustable control valve for fast...
  • 3. Fire board specifications: 9.5 * 9.5CM...
  • 4. Packing specification: 4x5x8Cm, light and...
  • 5. 100% satisfaction guarantee: The camping stove...

This ultralight backpacking cookware is strong and built to last. Made of aluminum alloy, this cookware can withstand high weight and temperature. It is collapsible and compact. It is the perfect design for backpacking and ultralight camping. For enhanced portability, it comes with its special carrying case. Due to its wide compatibility, it can be used with 7/16 thread single butane/butane-propane mixed fuel canisters . Flame control is achieved through the adjustable control valve.

It allows you to adjust to fast heat for those quick meals as well as a simmer. When using this cookware, you don’t have to worry about leaving traces behind. It burns clean without leaving soot or any form of debris behind. This cookware uses the piezo ignition system. Therefore, it is able to attain a quick ignition while the strong valve connection ensures that the flame remains strong and consistent whether you are adjusting from low to high settings. Set up is easy and it comes with a very small footprint. The metal on the feet is slightly bendable, which allows you to adjust them, based on where you will be camping. You don’t have an excuse to eat cold meals anymore, whenever you go hiking.

2. MalloMe Camping Cookware Kit, Folding Spork, Nylon Bag, Ebook (10-Piece)

Sale
1 Liter Camping Cookware Mess Kit Backpacking Gear & Hiking Outdoors Bug Out Bag Cooking Equipment...
  • BUILT TO LAST! Highest Quality Non-Toxic Anodized...
  • ALL-IN-ONE COOKWARE MEGA BUNDLE: The 10 Piece...
  • EASY CLEANING & STORAGE: The entire 10-piece mess...
  • WORRY FREE WILDERNESS: Finally enjoy the great...
  • PERFECT GIFT FOR FAMILY AND FRIENDS: #1 Outdoor...

Gone are the days of disorganized, burdensome, and bulky camping cookware. With this one, you don’t have to worry whether you packed every cooking item. It is a mobile, compact and lightweight camp kitchen set. Made of anodized aluminum, it conducts heat quickly, while the cookset is able to last longer. The entire kit is easy to store and clean. Comprised of ten pieces, the entire set collapses into a single and small bundle for easy control. It contains all your cooking accessories into one.

Some of the items in the kit include non-stick pot, non-stick pan, pot cover, 2 BPA free bowls, BPA Free Soup Spoon, Folding Stainless Steel Spork, Wooden Spoon Spatula, BPA Free Soup Spoon, Cleaning Sponge, Nylon Travel Bag Drawstring Pouch and a cooking guide. It is one of the best hiking cookware, for someone looking for outdoor cooking camping, hiking and backpacking cooking set. The kit is suitable for everyone who wants high quality product for the great outdoors. If you are tired of that rattling noise as you hike along, then you will appreciate this compact cooking set.

3. Stanley Adventure Camp Cook Set 24oz Stainless Steel

STANLEY Adventure Nesting Two Cup Cookset
  • IDEAL OUTDOOR ACCESSORIES: The Stanley cook kit is...
  • VERSATILE HANDLE: We designed the handle to...
  • DURABLE AND BPA-FREE: The kettle / coffee maker is...
  • LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN: The stovetop mess kit with...

This smart and simple Stanley Adventure Camp Cook Set allows you to prepare meals quickly, whenever you are hiking or backpacking. The cook set is easy to clean and campfire friendly. It comes with a narrow profile, which makes it even simpler to pack. With a small footprint, it does not consume space that could have been used by other important accessories. As much as the cups seem heavier than the titanium varieties, they are insulated and they don’t scorch your lips when taking that hot coffee.

With the strainer lid feature, you can prepare a very nice cup of coffee, before you hit the trails. Pot is created using single-wall stainless steel, which is naturally BPA free and rust proof. A 2 position handle can be extended and then locks in place. Once you have finished preparing the meals, the handle folds or retracts, which helps to save space. Vented lid allows steam to escape when you are cooking. The whole set is dishwasher safe. You can also be a seasoned outdoorsman, thanks to this cook set. The attention to detail on this cook set is just on another level. The workmanship is great and the entire set is designed to make your outdoor life much fun.

4. MSR Alpine Stowaway Pot

MSR Alpine Stainless Steel Stowaway Camping Pot, 775 mL
  • Stainless steel construction is incredibly strong...
  • Great for storing camping gear and supplies when...
  • Hinged, easy-lift handle flips over the fitted lid...
  • Lightweight at just 13 oz (365 g)
  • Measures 5.6 x 3.4 in (14.2 x 8.6 cm)

The MSR Alpine Stowaway Pot is a versatile piece of cookware, perfect for hiking and backpacking. Whenever you are not cooking, you can store your supplies or gear inside. The entire kit is secure, thanks to the hinges and the handle flips that provide an easy to lift mechanism. If you are looking for affordable stainless steel cookware, then you should consider the MSR Alpine Stowaway Pot. The lid fits perfectly without allowing food to splash all over. Additionally, the lid can be removed and stored separately. It is a durable and high-quality cookware option, which packs easily.

It is dent and scratch resistant, which is just what you need to handle those rugged outdoor conditions. With rounded corners, the heat is able to travel up the sides more quickly, thus boosting efficiency. Since it is scratch-resistant, it can be scrubbed with anything, including sand and there will be no noticeable damage. It is much wider than other lightweight cook sets, which makes it to fry when placed inside the bottom of a pot. Many people would argue that the set is heavy, but this can be attributed to its durability and quality construction. If you love big meals prepared over open campfires, this is the pot for you.

5. OuterEQ 8pcs Lightweight Outdoor Camping Hiking Cookware Bowl Pot Pan Set

OuterEQ Camping Cookware Outdoor Mess Kit Lightweight Backpacking Cooking Set Picnic Pots and Pans...
  • This outdoor cooking set is designed for one or...
  • The pot and frying pan are made of anodised...
  • This cooking set is a kind of non-stick cookware.
  • Foldable handles on pot, frying pan and soup...
  • Small size and portable: All the objects in this...

This hiking cookware is designed for around two people. The frying pot and the pan are created using anodized aluminum, making it light and solid. The use of anodized aluminum also promotes fast heat transfer, helping you to save your fuel. The cookware is non-stick, making it easy to clean after meals. Foldable handles have been fitted on the soupspoon, frying pan and the pot.

You simply extend them when you are cooking, then fold back, for easy storage. This entire set is portable and has a small footprint, making it suitable for backpacking and hiking activities. For portability, all the items in the set can be stored inside a mesh bag. You will not encounter any issues of rusting. Once you have cleaned them, they dry fast and the use of stainless steel makes the set rust proof. Also included in the knife is a sharp, serrated knife that will be very handy when you are out there.

6. Odoland 10pcs Camping Cookware Mess Kit, Lightweight Pot Pan Kettle with 2 Cups, Fork Knife Spoon Kit for Backpacking, Outdoor Camping Hiking and Picnic

Sale
Odoland Camping Cookware Mess Kit, Lightweight Pot Pan Kettle with 2 Cups, Fork Spoon Kit Stainless...
  • Best Money Ever Spent: The 10 pieces hiking...
  • Heat-Resistant Handles: Thermally insulated...
  • Non-Stick & Incredibly Durable: Each piece has a...
  • Easy to Carry: Foldable handles on pot or stove...
  • Enjoy Cooking Anywhere You Go: This awesome...

The Odoland Camping Cookware is one of the best camping cookware sets for anyone who will be spending some time outdoors. It comes with 10 pieces of camping cookware, which include a pot, a pan, a kettle, a spoon, 2 cups, a fork, 1 knife, and a carabiner. A carry bag has also been included to provide a convenient and easy means of carrying your kit. Everything in this kit has been made of high-quality, and durable materials. Therefore, you can rest assured that you will get value for your money if you buy this kit.

This portable cookware for hiking comes with heat-resistant handles, which means you don’t have to worry about burning your fingers. On the other hand, their anti-slip design gives you a firm grip, while preventing incidents or accidents. Furthermore, a lid has been included, which you can use to cover the boiling pot and the frying pan. Therefore, regardless of what you are cooking or boiling, there are no chances of the hot food materials spewing out. As you can see, the entire cookware set is safe to use.

The entire set is easy to carry. The handles on the pot and pan are foldable, while their compact design helps you to save space in your camping bag. Whether are going for a backpacking expedition or you just want to enjoy some camping with your loved ones, this ultralight hiking cookware is perfect for all your outdoor activities.

7. G4Free Outdoor Camping Pan Hiking Cookware, Bowl Pot Pan Set, 4 Piece

G4Free 2/4/13 PCS Camping Cookware Mess Kit Hiking Backpacking Picnic Cooking Bowl Non Stick Pot...
  • HIGHEST QUALITY/EASY CLEAN - Non-Toxic anodized...
  • BEST PRICE/SAVE MONEY - Package 13 pieces includes...
  • Easy Packing & Taking: All the objects in this...
  • PERFECT COOKWARE FOR YOURSELF/ FAMILY- It is...
  • GUARANTEE-If there are any product quality...

The G4Free Outdoor Camping Set contains a 4-piece set cast of aluminum while weighing just 1.2 pounds. It comes with two bowls and two pots, which can also be used as lids, ideal for a hiking or backpacking environment. The set is also fitted with folding handles, wrapping around the cookware rather than the conventional method of flipping over. Once it is packed, it compacts to a diameter of 5.5 inches and 6.6 inches long. As you can see, it will occupy minimal space inside your backpack.

Additionally, after it has been put together, you can carry several cooking accessories such as pepper, salt, seasoning, stove, matches, a sponge and other smaller cooking items. Its handle is foldable, thus enhancing easy storage. The handle also comes with a silicone tube cover, which protects you from burning. With nylon mesh carry bag, packing and carrying this set is easy. Non-stick coating ensures that your eggs and other foods can be removed easily, once cooking is done. It also makes cleaning them easier and faster. It is advisable to use wooden cooking sticks with this set, to prevent scratching of the non-stick coating.

8. Overmont Ultralight Camping Cookware Set Camping Stove Backpacking Set Outdoor Cooking Mess Kit Camping Kettle Pots and Pans Coffee Kettle

Overmont 1.95 Liter (Pot+ Kettle) Camping Cookware Set 1-2 Person Campfire Kettle Outdoor Cooking...
  • Package Includes: 1x 1.15 Liter pot, 6.8x3.6”,...
  • High strength- Made by anodic oxidation process,...
  • Easy to store, equipped with a mesh bag, all of...
  • Suitable for 1-3 people use
  • Designed specially for camping and hiking cooking....

If you are looking for a versatile, camping cookware set, which can you can use to prepare some delicious and nutritious meals when you are having fun on the camping ground, then you should purchase the Overmont Ultralight Camping Cookware Set. It features 1 pot, 1 pan, a kettle for warming your tea as well as all the cutlery that you might need when camping such as a spatula, a spoon, a flint, and a cleaning towel, among others. With this set, you can prepare almost anything that you want, and enjoy your favorite meals whenever you go camping.

Some people have complained that camping cookware sets are fragile and tend to fall apart easily. The good news is that you will not experience such problems if you purchase this lightweight hiking cookware. All the included items are made of high strength materials. The pots and the pans have been made through the anodic oxidation process. Besides that, they come with a protective aluminum layer, which protects them from wear and tear. Also, all the parts have been connected using sturdy rivets. Therefore, chances of falling apart even after being exposed to high temperatures are minimal. And since it has a non-sticking bottom, cleaning the units will be easy and fast.

You can stack the pot, the kettle and the frying pan on top of each other, and then store them inside a mesh bag. As a result, you will have saved a significant amount of space in your backpack, which you can use to carry other important items. Also, this cookware set is incredibly safe to use. The handles feature thermal insulation, which prevents overheating. At the same time, the pot and the pan are easy to balance them on a small camping stove.

9. TOAKS Titanium 1600ml Pot with Pan

TOAKS Titanium 1600ml Pot with Pan
  • Material: Titanium (no coating)
  • Total Weight: 8.2 oz (231.1g)
  • Capacity: 54.1 oz (pot: 1600ml, pan: 490ml)
  • Dimension: Pot: 5 3/4" (145mm) (Dia) x 4 1/8"...
  • Origin: Designed by TOAKS in California and...

The TOAKS 1600ml is an ultralight titanium hiking pot with rounded bottom edges that makes cleaning easy. Heat efficiency is also improved by the rounded bottom edges while the titanium used to make the pots is corrosion resistant. For compact storage, the handles just fold away. There is no metallic taste or smell when you use these accessories for cooking. The pan and pot are both sturdy and durable. The versatile saucepan can be used to prepare small meals. Moreover, it can also act as a lid for the pot.

Wire handles on the pan and pots are coated to make sure they do not get too hot and burn your fingers. This cookware also comes with pouches for carrying and storage. They are made from durable dual-layer nylon together with a plastic cord lock, making it easy to operate. Apart from keeping the cooking kit protected, you can use the mesh storage as a coarse filter, in case you need one. The TOAKS Titanium 1600ml Pot with Pan is lightweight and sturdy, available at a reasonable price. Materials used are durable, giving you that long-lasting consistency.

10. GSI Outdoors - Pinnacle Camper, 4 Person Camping Cook Set

GSI Outdoors, Pinnacle Camper Cooking Set for Camping and Backpacking, 2 to 4 Person
  • Cooking & mess kit: The Pinnacle Camper is a...
  • All in one: Includes 4 plates, 4 insulated mugs...
  • Non-stick cookware: The durable, anodized aluminum...
  • Durable dish set: Plates, bowls and mugs made from...
  • Smart design: Folding, removable handle locks...

The GSI Pinnacle Camper is a comprehensive set of cookware, designed for 4 people. This hiking cookware set features a 3-liter pot, 9-inch frying pan, 2-liter pot, four insulated mugs, 2 nylon strainer lids, and four plates. It also comes with additional components such as a folding pot handle and 4 sip-through lids. The frying pan and the cooking pots are made of hard anodized aluminum and further reinforced with Teflon coating.

According to the manufacturer, the Teflon coating is hard enough to withstand consistent scratching with knives, spoons or other metal utensils. The frying pan and the pots are quite spacious. Therefore, it’s highly advisable to use them with camping stoves that wide pot racks. You will also notice that the frying pan and the cooking pot distribute heat much better, compared to basic hiking cookware set. When you are cooking with them, your foods will be ready within a short time, thus saving you time and energy.

The bowls, plates and bugs are the same shape and size. Therefore, you can use them interchangeably, whether you want to drink some coffee or eat some food. Also, the mug comes with an external removable insulating sleeve, designed to help you grip hot foods. Packing this cookware set is easy and convenient, thanks to the color coding of the mugs and plates. Even kids can pack this camping and hiking cookware, without experiencing any challenges. And if you are weight conscious or you will be camping alone, then you can simply strip down this cookware set and carry fewer items.

11. GSI Outdoors Stainless Base Camper - 3 Piece Cookset

GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Steel Base Camper - Medium - 3 Pieces Cookset - Compact, & Durable...
  • CAR CAMPING ESSENTIAL: This 3-piece stainless...
  • COOK LIKE A CHEF: Safe to use on the stove or over...
  • DURABILITY AND DESIGN: Indestructible stainless...
  • VALUE: When compared to other materials such as...
  • LIFETIME WARRANTY: GSI Outdoors spent over 30...

The GSI Outdoors Base Camper is a durable, versatile, lightweight, and highly functional set of cookware, designed for all your outdoor adventures. Whether you are car camping at your local state park or backpacking deep in the wilderness, this stainless steel hiking cookware comes with everything that you will need to prepare and cook your meals.

This cookware set comes in two distinct sizes – large and medium. If you opt for the large size, you will get a 5-liter pot and 2-liter pot, while the medium size set gets you a 3-liter pot, 2-liter pot. Both sets come with 2 strainer lids, a 9-inch frying pan, and a carry sack. As the name suggests, the entire cook set is made of stainless steel. Therefore, you are assured of great cooking performance. Also, food residue doesn’t stick on the pots and pan. Whether you are frying eggs or making bacon, they will not stick even when you are cooking with minimal oil or under high heat. Cleaning them is also easy since the food doesn’t stick.

The GSI Outdoors Base Camper is designed for optimal packability. The smaller pit with its lid sits comfortably inside the larger one, with the larger lid going on top. The frying pan, with its handed folded underneath, will then sit on top of the entire set. Once you’ve arranged everything, the entire set will then go inside a carry bag. Thanks to this optimal nesting, this portable cookware for hiking will not take up too much space in your backpack. Compact, durable, and versatile, the GSI Outdoors Base Camper is just what you need for all your hiking, camping, or backpacking expeditions.

12. KingCamp Camping Cookware Mess Kit, Backpacking Cooking Set

KingCamp 18 Pcs Camping Cookware Mess Kit Hard-Anodized Aluminum Camping Pots and Pans Backpacking...
  • 【Premium and Safe Material Camping...
  • 【Camping Cookware Set for Family】It is perfect...
  • 【All-in-1 Small Package】With foldable handle...
  • 【Enough Capacity Mess Kit】The big camping pot...
  • 【 Quality Assurance 】If you have any issues...

If you are planning to go camping with your family and you are looking for portable cookware that can accommodate your cooking needs, then the KingCamp Cookware Set is a perfect choice. This portable cookware for family features 3 pots, a foldable ladle, a frying pan, 5 bowls, one spoon, 2 plates, a cleaning sponge and a carry bag. All the pots have lids. The frying pan and the all the pots are made of hard-anodized aluminum, featuring a non-stick surface. The non-stick material that has been applied is durable.

All the units are easy to clean. You just need to wipe them using the cleaning sponge that comes with the kit and then clean them thoroughly once you arrive at home. Also, the handles are foldable, and the entire set will only occupy a small amount of space in your bag. You should also note that this kit meets all the applicable health and safety standards. The spoon and the bowls are made of safe, food-grade plastic. Furthermore, the non-stick material that has been applied on the pan and the pots is non-toxic. On top of that, the entire kit is environmentally friendly. It’s ideal for hiking, camping, backpacking, picnics as well as other outdoor activities that you might have in mind.

13. Bisgear Outdoor, Non-Stick Cookware, Stove, Carabiner, Utensils, Wine Opener, 12 Piece

16pcs Camping Cookware Stove Carabiner Folding Spork Set Bisgear(TM) Outdoor Camping Hiking...
  • HIGHEST QUALITY/EASY CLEAN-aluminum pot and frying...
  • BEST PRICE/SAVE MONEY-Bisgear 16pcs camping...
  • SPACE SAVING/EASY TO CARRY- All the objects in...
  • PERFECT GIFT FOR YOURSELF/ FAMILY- It is suitable...
  • WORRY FREE WILDERNESS: Finally enjoy the great...

Lightweight and small, this cookware is created using anodized aluminum, for fast heat conductivity and durability. The interior comes with a non-stick coating, making it easy to clean. The unit is compact, easy to carry and has a small footprint. It can easily fit inside your backpacking, without consuming too much space. The items included in the set are stainless steel foldable knife, piezo ignition mini stove, mini stove pocket, anodized aluminum non-stick pot, canister stand tripod, dishcloth, mesh bag, carabiner, wine opener and others.

Moreover, all the items can be conveniently stored inside the provided mesh bag, for additional space saving. The folding handle design also saves space. It has a high heat resistant, which means that your hands are protected from scorching. The pots are multipurpose, which means that you can use them for different activities during your hike whether you are cooking, frying, boiling, or stir-frying.

14. Winterial Camping Cookware and Pot Set 11 Piece Set For Backpacking / Hiking / Trekking

Winterial Camping Cookware and Pot Set 10 Piece Set For Camping / Backpacking / Hiking / Trekking
  • COOKWARE SET: 10-Piece camping cookware set has...
  • TOUGH MATERIALS: Durable material made out of...
  • NON-STICK COATING: Designed with a non-stick...
  • PORTABLE: All the pieces store inside of each...
  • EVERYTHING YOU NEED: 1-quart tea kettle/lid,...

If you are on a budget and you are looking for cookware that you can use for camping and backpacking, this is a good option to consider. It comes with stable handles, cooks well, and can be bundled together for easy carrying during backpacking. In total, the cookware has 11 sets. Included in the set are a pot, tea kettle and pan. All these are made from aluminum. Also included in the set are a lid for covering the pot and the pan, plastic bowls, serving ladle, plastic spatula and a scrubbing pad for easy cleaning.

The hot pad in the set can also be used as a chopping board. The whole set can be stored inside the carry pack, which also comes with a drawstring closure. Considering the price of this set, it cooks fast. Although the whole set weighs around 1.8 pounds, you can remove the unnecessary items, then remain with the spatula, lid, frypan and pot. This reduces your weight significantly, to almost half. This makes it a highly versatile set for use during backpacking. Due to the versatility of the various pieces, the set is very easy to use. The handles collapse back to the pan.

15. BeGrit Backpacking, Picnic Cookware for Hiking, 8 Pieces, 410 Stainless Steel

Sale
BeGrit Backpacking Camping Cookware Mini Picnic Camping Cooking Mess Kit with Pot and Pan Set for...
  • 【Lightweight and Small】Camping cookware set...
  • 【Built To Last and Easy Clean】BeGrit Camping...
  • 【Handy and Multipurpose】All in 1 small...
  • 【Cost-effective Choice】Best money you ever...
  • 【Best Gift】This is also a great...

This stainless steel hiking cookware conducts heat quickly and is build to last. The stainless steel material used to make the cookware does not rust or even attach to food. Foods prepared are thus safe and healthy. It is easy to store and clean. It includes a frying pan, 2 reel-edge plates, 2 mugs, and 2 pots and an extra plate. The cookware is great for backpacking, camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities that require meal preparation.

A bag is also included for outdoor carry and storage. Construction is solid and you should expect the set to serve you for long, without a need for replacement. If you do not like aluminum cookware, then this would be a great alternative. When you are backpacking, you do not have to carry the whole set. Just carry what you need, and you will be able to shed some weight off your backpack.

>>> Best Hiking Gear >>>

Choosing Camping Cookware

Several factors should be considered, when it comes to selecting camping cookware. With so many options in the market today, it can be very challenging to choose the right one. The following are the factors to consider when selecting the type of camping cookware needed.

Consider your Setup

pot-headYou need to determine the number of people who will be using the cookware. The chosen one should have sufficient capacity to hold at least one pint for every camper. You should also use this rule even when you intend to hiking alone. If your camping setup will involve preparing multi-course meals, then you should have two pots, a frying pan, or even a Dutch oven. Two campers who will be eating canned meal or dehydrated meals only need two pots. For efficiency, if you are camping alone, you only require a single pot and lid. The pot will be used for cooking while the lid will double up as a plate or even a frying pan. You don’t need to have your entire kitchen in the bush with you! Lids reduce cooking time and save fuel. Ensure that you carry a lid for each pot, or even a multipurpose lid that can fit all pots.

If you will be camping as a group, then you should consider investing in a cookset. This is a collection of pans, lids, and pots designed to pack together. Since there are multiple items in the cookset, all their needs will be taken care of. Since vessels nest together into a single space, it is able to save space. This is a huge benefit especially for backpackers. Cooksets also come with a bag that makes it easy to carry. You can carry the pack alternatively, since you will all be using the vessels.

Materials

Camping cookware is available in different materials. They are designed to meet the needs and preferences of different campers, from light to fast. Each material has its own benefits and setbacks. Therefore, understanding each material will make your work easy when choosing hiking cookware.

Aluminum

Aluminum is lightweight and conducts heat well. Camping cookware made from aluminum is affordable. However, it dents out easily and is less durable than others like stainless steel are. Another drawback of stainless steel cookware, is their ability to react with alkaline or acid foods. This may change their flavor, or even lead to other complications. Raw aluminum is best suited for simmering foods.

Hard Anodized Aluminum

outdoor-cookingHard anodized aluminum was created to deal with most issues presented by raw aluminum. It is one of the best materials to choose for camping cookware. It is equally popular for home cookware. Just like raw aluminum, anodized conduct heats evenly, it is easy to clean, lightweight and durable. It resists scratching and abrasion. However, you need to avoid scratching the non-stick material with sharp or hard objects like metal spoons. Additionally, it is more expensive than raw aluminum. Hard anodized preferable is also preferable when preparing heat-sensitive foods like eggs or fresh vegetables, thanks to its even heat dispersal. It also conducts heat fast, saving fuel and time.

Titanium

If you want ultralight camping cookware, titanium should be your preferred choice. It is stronger than aluminum and lighter than steel. Titanium cookware is very popular with campers and backpackers. You get an opportunity to buy a lightweight cooking material, without sacrificing the strength. Cookware made from titanium is also resistant to corrosion. Titanium pots come with very thin walls. This makes them perfect for heating fast foods and boiling water. Their main setback is failure to disperse heat evenly. Therefore, they end up with hot spots. As much as it is one of the lightest materials used for camping cookware, it tends to be very expensive. They are mostly used by thru hikers who are after shedding unnecessary luggage. A basic camper would rarely see the need for titanium cookware.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is another widely used material in camping cookware. In terms of suitability and performance, it can be placed between titanium and aluminum. It is not a very good conductor of heat, which may lead to burned food or hot spots. It also ends up consuming more fuel than titanium and anodized aluminum. The major benefit of using stainless steel cookware, is their resiliency and durability. It is therefore ideal for backcountry camping where camping gear will suffer from a lot of abuse. Unfortunately, it is very heavy. Therefore, if you are going for a thru-hike, this is not the one for you. If you transport your hiking equipment via car, then you will enjoy the durable services of stainless steel.

Non-stick Coatings

Non-stick hiking cookware is very easy to cleanup. Additionally, they only require small amounts of oil for cooking. However, they are easily scratched than the uncoated ones. Therefore, be very careful and avoid mixing them with metal utensils. Apart from that, they also pose a health risk. Cookware coated with fluoropolymer PTFE can produce toxic fumes especially when overheated. These fumes usually cause flu-like symptoms and even death in pet birds.

What Food to Bring For Short Hikes

If you are going for a short hike, especially a day hike, then you will be eating much of the way. This means that you have the luxury of carrying a bit more food items that you would during a thru-hike or a backcountry hike. Here are some foods to carry for your short hike.

  • Nuts
  • Fresh fruits
  • Dried fruit or trail mix
  • Chocolate
  • Granola or cereal bars
  • Cheese

What Food for Long Hikes

When packing for longer hikes, you want to travel with as minimal weight as possible. You don’t have the luxury of eating fresh foods or your favorite foods. As a matter of fact, you should only carry food items that are just enough to last you through the hike. Therefore, choice of food materials will be key. For your thru hike or backpacking trip, consider the following foods.

  • Fresh foods like carrots
  • Dried foods such as pasta, noodles, drink mixes, soup mixes, and instant rice are light
  • Dehydrated or freeze-dried foods are super convenient and light
  • Spices can boost your appetite. Consider bringing garlic powder, black pepper, lemon pepper, cayenne pepper, or even cinnamon
  • Energy bars
  • Nuts
About the Author

Hi, I’m Brian Bradshaw. I’m a super duper mega hiking enthusiast, with a love for everything that has to do with outdoors, hiking, gear, footwear and more.

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  1. KingCamp Portable Camping Cookware Set 17 Pcs for 4-6 Person Family Cooking Pot Pan Bowls Mess Kit

    What do the other 3 people do while 2 of the 5 member family are using the only 2 plates in the set?

    I can’t find a 6-person family mess kit that has….6 plates. Any thoughts?

    1. Hi Clint,

      It’s a little strange when a 4-6 person cookware set doesn’t offer enough plates for said 4-6 persons, isn’t it?

      I suggest just bringing some plates of your own. If it takes up a tad bit more packing space, then so be it.

      Sincerely,

      Brian

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