Living off prepackaged foods is sometimes a necessity when you’re camping or hiking, but if you plan to stay in one spot for a while, you may have time to cook a meal. A backpacking cookware set is light enough to prevent weighing down your bag, and compact enough to leave space for other items. Which set you choose will be based on how many pots or pans you need, as well as the number of utensils. We’ve gathered a collection of the best backpacking cookware sets for you to choose from for your next adventure.
MalloMe Camping Cookware Mess Kit
Service for two
A pot with a cover, a frying pan, and a wood utensil for cooking in them are all included in this set. There are two bowls, so you won't have to eat alone, as well as a spork and soup spoon. Everything folds down and fits together in a small canister shape that weighs just a bit over a pound.
Stanley Adventure Camp Cook Set
Includes two insulated cups
Want a simple cookware set just under 14-ounces for soups, stews, and chili? This option from Stanley has a small pot with measurement markings on the side, a vented lid, and two cups. The lid helps contain heat so you’ll spend less time waiting for water or food to come up to temperature. After you’re done cooking, the handle folds up to make this set as compact as possible.
G4Free Camping Cookware Mess Kit
Comes with its own heat source
This set is massive. You’ll receive one small and one medium pot, three standard utensils, three bowls, a luffa for cleaning, and two mesh bags. Best of all, a mini stove is also included, so you won't need a campfire to start cooking. Together, all items weigh under 2 lbs.
Odoland Camping Cookware Mess Kit
Ideal for tea and instant food lovers
Fancy a cup of tea? The kettle in this set stores inside the canister with everything else, so you'll always have a dedicated vessel for heating water. When you're serving up hot foods or drinks, the two insulated cups keep your hands protected, while also helping maintain the temperature. There isn't a wooden spoon included, but you will get a fork, knife, and spoon that fold up for storage.
Cooking in the wild
There’s no reason to abandon your favorite fresh meals at home because you’re on an adventure in the wilderness. In most situations, we think the MalloMe Camping Cookware Mess Kit is the best option. It contains the basics you need for making any small meal and includes bowls with utensils to accommodate two people. The small canister fits in a mesh bag that can be tied to your pack if you run out of room.
If keeping it super simple is your plan, opt for the Stanley Adventure Camp Cook Set. There are only four pieces in this set, but it’s enough to get the job done. The lid doubles as a strainer if you’re making tea, but also includes a vent so you can leave it on to conserve energy when heating dense foods up. All four pieces weigh in at less than a pound, making it easy to justify bringing this set along.
