The Ultimate Camping Cookware Kit For Families: A Comprehensive Guide

Family camping cookware sets are essential for cooking delicious meals outdoors. Whether you're whipping up a gourmet meal or just making coffee, you'll need the right tools. There are a variety of sets available, from simple pots and pans to more comprehensive kits with plates, utensils, and even a stove. When choosing a set, consider the type of camping you'll be doing, the number of people you'll be cooking for, weight and size constraints, ease of cleanup, and the materials used. Stainless steel, hard-anodized aluminum, and titanium are popular choices for their durability, lightweight, and heat conduction properties. Some sets also offer non-stick coatings, like Teflon or ceramic, for easier cleanup. Whatever your needs, there's a family camping cookware set that's perfect for you.

Backpacking Cookware: lightweight, compact, designed to be carried for long distances

When it comes to backpacking cookware, you want something that's lightweight, compact, and durable. Here are some of the best options on the market:

• TOAKS Titanium 750ml Pot: This pot is a top choice for backpackers due to its lightweight titanium construction. It weighs only 3.6 oz and has a capacity of 750 ml, making it perfect for solo trekkers or couples. The pot features foldaway handles and a lid, and it can accommodate a small stove and fuel canister.
• MSR Titan Kettle: This kettle is made of titanium and weighs only 4.2 oz. It has a secure lid that snaps into place, making it ideal for controlling liquid when pouring. The kettle also features insulated handles and folding handles for easy packing.
• GSI Outdoors Halulite 1.1 L Cookpot: This anodized aluminum pot is a great option for those who want even heat distribution. It weighs 8.6 oz and has a capacity of 1.1 L, making it suitable for couples or small groups. The pot features insulated handles and a lid, and it can accommodate a stove and fuel canister.
• MSR Ceramic Solo Pot: This pot is made of ceramic-coated anodized aluminum and weighs only 7.5 oz. It has a capacity of 1.3 L, making it suitable for solo trekkers or couples. The pot features insulated handles and a lid with a strainer, and it is PFOA-free.
• Snow Peak Titanium Trek 700 Mug: This mug is made of titanium and weighs only 4.8 oz. It has a capacity of 700 ml, making it suitable for solo trekkers. The mug features insulated handles and a lid, and it can accommodate a stove and fuel canister.
• Sea to Summit Alpha Pot - 1.2 Liters: This pot is made of anodized aluminum and weighs only 6.6 oz. It has a capacity of 1.2 L, making it suitable for couples. The pot features a strainer, etched measuring marks, insulated handles, and a pivoting handle.

Car Camping Cookware: large, bulky, similar to home cookware but more durable and lighter

Car camping cookware is large and bulky, similar to the cookware you would find in your own home. However, car camping cookware is more durable and lighter than home cooking equipment.

If you are looking for a durable, high-quality, and versatile car camping cookware set, the Stanley Adventure Even-Heat Camp Pro Cookset is a great option. This set includes two pots, a frying pan, a collapsible cutting board, utensils, trivets, and a locking bungee, all of which nest together for easy storage and transport. The stainless steel construction ensures even heat distribution and increases durability and balance. While this set is on the heavier side, making it less ideal for backpacking, it is perfect for car camping and overlanding.

Another option for car camping cookware is the Lodge Dutch Oven Combo Cooker. This cast iron cookware set is heavy and requires special care, but it is incredibly durable, versatile, and cooks food evenly. The deep skillet is perfect for soups and stews, and the lid can be used as a frying pan. While cast iron requires more time to heat up, it retains heat well, making it a great choice for slow-cooked meals.

If you are looking for a more lightweight option, the GSI Outdoors Bugaboo Base Camper Cookset is a good choice. This set includes two pots, a frying pan, a cutting board, a pot grip, and a stuff sack, all of which nest together for compact storage. The non-stick coating makes it easy to cook with less oil and clean up is a breeze. However, non-stick coatings are not as durable as other materials and may need to be replaced over time.

For a more affordable option, the Stanley Adventure Base Camp Cookset is a great value. This set includes a stainless steel pot, a frying pan, plates, utensils, a cutting board, and a drying rack, all of which nest together for easy storage. While the frying pan and plates are on the smaller side, this set is durable, lightweight, and easy to pack, making it a great choice for car camping.

Kettles/Water Boilers: tea kettles, coffee makers, percolators, etc

Kettles and water boilers are essential for tea and coffee lovers and can even be used for cooking and rehydrating food. Here are some of the best options for camping kettles and water boilers:

MSR Pika Teapot

The MSR Pika Teapot is a great overall choice for a camping kettle. It has a fast boil time, a secure lid, and a precision pour. It is made of BPA-, BPS-, and BPF-free copolyester and stainless steel, and weighs only 5.1 ounces. The handle is very secure and comfortable to hold, and the clear lid allows you to see inside the kettle as it boils. However, it cannot be used over an open fire as the plastic components may melt.

GSI Glacier Stainless Tea Kettle

If you're looking for a kettle for car camping, the GSI Glacier Stainless Tea Kettle is an excellent option. It is made of durable stainless steel and can be used over an open fire. It has a capacity of 32.1 fluid ounces and a fast boil time. However, the lid could be sturdier as it tends to fall off during pouring.

Snow Peak Kettle No. 1

The Snow Peak Kettle No. 1 is a versatile and compact kettle that can also be used as a small saucepan. It is made of stainless steel and has a capacity of 30.4 fluid ounces. While it has a slightly longer boil time compared to other kettles, it is easy to pack and store due to its compact design.

Sea to Summit X-Pot Kettle

If you're looking for a collapsible and lightweight option, the Sea to Summit X-Pot Kettle is a great choice. It has a capacity of 44 fluid ounces and boils water in 7 minutes and 40 seconds. It is made of silicone with an aluminum base and has a secure lid. However, it cannot be used over an open fire as the silicone sides may melt.

Decathlon Quechua MH500 Camping Kettle

For those on a budget, the Decathlon Quechua MH500 Camping Kettle is a great option. It is made of stainless steel and has a capacity of 33.8 fluid ounces. It has a good boil time of 7 minutes and 55 seconds and is very affordable compared to other kettles.

Kelly Kettle

The Kelly Kettle is a unique and versatile camping kettle that uses sticks, pine cones, bark, or any other fuel source to boil water in just 3 to 5 minutes. It is available in three sizes: Base Camp (boils 1.6 litres), Scout (boils 1.2 litres), and Trekker (boils 0.6 litres). It is lightweight, compact, and durable, making it ideal for various recreational and emergency uses.

Other Options

Other notable mentions include the REDCAMP 1.4L Outdoor Camping Kettle, Bulin 2.2L Camping Kettle, Granite Ware 3 Qt Coffee Boiler, and the GSI Outdoors Halulite 1 qt Tea Kettle. These kettles offer a range of features such as lightweight designs, compact sizes, and efficient boiling times, making them great additions to your camping gear.

Mess Kits: multipurpose sets with cookware and tableware, usually lightweight and compact

Mess kits are a great option for camping cookware, especially for backpacking. They are usually lightweight and compact, making them easy to carry and store. They typically include a variety of cookware and tableware items, such as pots, pans, plates, bowls, cups, and utensils. Here are some examples of mess kits that you can consider for your next camping trip:

Olicamp Stainless Steel Mess Kit

This mess kit is made of lightweight steel and has a compact clamshell design. It includes a 6.75-inch fry pan with a folding wire handle, a 6.5-inch dish, a 1-pint pot with a lid that nests inside, and an 8-ounce plastic drinking/measuring cup. The nested size is 3 inches by 7 inches in diameter, and the weight is 15 ounces.

UCO 6-Piece Camping Mess Kit

This mess kit includes a bowl, plate, camp cup, and a switch spork utensil set. It is a popular choice, with over 400 bought in the past month.

GSI Outdoors Bugaboo Base Camper Cookset

This mess kit includes two pots, a frying pan, a cutting board, a folding pot handle, and a storage sack that can double as a sink. It is made of hard-anodized aluminum with a non-stick coating, which makes it easy to clean. The set weighs 2.42 pounds.

Odoland 22-Piece Camping Cookware Mess Kit

This mess kit comes with a tableware set, including a pot, frying pan, kettle, and stainless steel tableware. It is lightweight and compact, making it suitable for backpacking. The set weighs 4.59 pounds.

MSR Quick 2 System Cook Set

This mess kit is a good option for backpacking as it is lightweight and compact. It includes a non-stick coated pot, plates, insulated mugs, bowls, and a stuff sack. The set is made of hard-anodized aluminum.

These are just a few examples of mess kits available for camping. When choosing a mess kit, consider the number of people you will be cooking for, the weight and size of the kit, the ease of cleaning, and the type of handles included.

Materials: stainless steel, titanium, cast iron, etc

When it comes to choosing the right material for your camping cookware, there are several factors to consider, such as weight, durability, cooking performance, reactivity, maintenance, versatility, and cost. Here are the pros and cons of some of the most common materials used in camping cookware:

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is a popular choice for camping cookware due to its durability, ease of cleaning, and rust resistance. It is also non-reactive with acidic ingredients, which can affect the flavour of your food. Stainless steel is versatile and suitable for boiling, sautéing, and frying. However, it may be heavier and more expensive than other materials, and it may not be the best option for dishes that require even heat distribution, such as pancakes or eggs.

Titanium

Titanium cookware has gained popularity among campers due to its lightweight and durability. Titanium is highly resistant to high temperatures and can withstand rough handling, making it ideal for outdoor cooking. Similar to stainless steel, titanium is non-reactive and won't leach any chemicals into your food. However, titanium tends to be more expensive, and it may have hot spots that can cause uneven cooking or burning.

Aluminum

Aluminum camping cookware is an affordable option that performs well and conducts heat efficiently. It comes in various shapes and sizes, and it is also lightweight. However, aluminum is reactive and can leach chemicals into food, especially acidic foods. Some aluminum sets come with a non-stick coating to improve safety and ease of cleaning.

Hard Anodized Aluminum

Hard anodized aluminum offers increased durability, scratch resistance, and non-reactivity compared to traditional aluminum. It is easier to clean and prevents food from sticking. While it may cost more upfront, it can save money in the long run due to its increased reliability. However, like aluminum, it may have hot spots.

Cast Iron

Cast iron is a durable and non-reactive material that retains heat well, making it a popular choice for outdoor cooking, especially with an open flame or camp stove. However, cast iron can be heavy, making it unsuitable for long-distance hikes or backpacking trips. It also requires regular seasoning and oiling to prevent rust.

Ceramic

Ceramic cookware is attractive, non-reactive, and easy to clean. It has a smooth, hard surface that is scratch and stain-resistant and non-stick. Ceramic cookware is compatible with various stove types and can be used for baking or roasting. However, ceramic may not be as durable as metal options and may chip or crack if handled poorly. It also doesn't handle very high temperatures well.

Frequently asked questions