Best Camping Cookware 2022: Top Picks & Buyer Guide

Share your love

If you are in the market for new camping cookware, then this article is for you. We have compiled a list of the best cookware on the market of 2022 and created a buyer’s guide to help make your decision easier.

Quick Recommendation

RANK PICTURE NAME RATING SHOPS
Best Overall GSI-Outdoors-Pinnacle-Dualist-II
GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Camper
  • Compact
  • Interlocking design.
  • There are all the necessary cooking utensils.
  • Teflon Radiance non-stick
9.7
4.8/5 StarsMore
img
Best Budget Odoland-16pcs-Camping-Cookware-Mess-Kit
Odoland 16pcs Mess Kit
  • Spill-proof cup.
  • Holds heat well.
  • Impact-resistant nylon cap
9.5
4.7/5 StarsMore
img
Most For Family Stanley-Base-Camp-Cook-Set-for-4
Stanley Base Camp Cook Set for 4
  • Scratch resistance.
  • The pot has a multi-layer base that heats evenly.
  • BPA-free plastic spoons and dishes.
  • Easy to clean.
8.7
4.7/5 StarsMore
img

GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Camper

Price: $149.95

Serves: 2/4 people.

Pieces: 19.

Max capacity: 3 L.

Total weight: 3.63 lbs.

What we Like: Compact, Interlocking design. There are all necessary cooking utensils. Flexible detachable handle. The pan has Teflon Radiance non-stick technology.

What We Don’t Like: The handles are not insulated and can get hot easily.

Review: This cookware set is a great option for those looking for something compact and easy to store. The interlocking design means that there are no loose pieces, and the flexible detachable handle makes it easy to store. The pan has Teflon Radiance non-stick technology, so your food will not stick. However, the handles can get hot easily, so be careful when using them.


Sea to Summit Alpha Pot Set 2.2

Price: $129.95.

Serves: 2/4 people.

Pieces: 5/6/10 pcs.

Max capacity: 3.9L.

Total weight: 1 lb 11 oz

What we Like: The bowl is BPA-free, easy to clean, Hard-anodized aluminum, Compact, and Versatile.

What we don’t Like: Can only be used with camping stoves.

Review: The Sea to Summit Alpha Pot Set is a great option for those looking for a versatile and compact cookware set. The hard-anodized aluminum pots are easy to clean and make cooking a breeze. The set also includes a BPA-free bowl that is perfect for serving or storing food.


MalloMe Camping Cookware Mess Kit

Price: $22

Serves: 2 people.

Pieces: 10 pcs.

Max capacity: 3L.

Total weight: 1.13 Pounds.

What we Like: Easy to clean, Non-toxic Anodized aluminum non-stick pot, Low price, Lightweight.

What We Don’t Like: Could have more pieces.

Review: Coming in at the cheapest price on our list, MalloMe’s camping cookware is a great choice for those looking to save money. The best thing about this kit is that it’s easy to clean – both the pot and the plates are non-stick, so they can be quickly wiped down. The pots also have a nice, even heat distribution, which means you’ll have an easy time cooking your food evenly.

The only downside is that the set is a bit on the small side – it’s perfect for two people, but if you’re cooking for more than that, you’ll need to supplement with other pieces.


Stanley Even-Heat Camp Pro Cookset

Price: $140

Serves: 2/4 people.

Pieces: 11 pcs.

Max capacity: 4L.

Total weight: 8.4 Pounds.

What we Like: Even-Heat base (only the bottom of the pot gets hot), nonstick coating, Hard-anodized aluminum, has a strainer.

What we Don’t Like: The nonstick surface can wear off quickly if not properly handled, and pot handles get hot easily.

Review: Stanley has created a fantastic camping cook set that offers superior performance. It is made out of hard-anodized aluminum and features an Even-Heat base (only the bottom gets hot) which allows for uniform cooking without hotspots ruining your meal. The nonstick surface makes it easier to clean, although care must be taken not to scratch or chip it. The pot and panhandle get hot very quickly, so you will need to use a potholder or gloves while cooking with it.

The cost of the Stanley is $140 which puts it at the high end of our price range but for its performance, we feel that this set is worth every dollar spent on it. It serves between two and four people and comes with a total of eleven pieces.


MSR Quick 2 System Cook Set

Price: $99.95.

Serves: 2 people.

Pieces: 10 pcs

Max capacity: 4L.

Total weight: 1 lb

What we Like: Lightweight, Durable, and Compact

What we Don’t: Not ideal for large groups.

Review: The MSR Quick System Cook Set is a great cookware choice for those looking for something light and compact. It is designed to be easy and quick to pack up. The set includes two pots, a lid with strainer holes, and two bowls which can all fit inside each other for easy packing.

As far as durability goes this cookware works great on both open campfires or backpacking stoves. It’s made of hard-anodized aluminum which is lightweight and easy to clean.


Odoland 16pcs Camping Cookware Mess Kit

Price: $43.99.

Serves: 2 people.

Pieces: 16 pcs

Max capacity: 4L.

Total weight: 3.3lbs.

What we Like: This cookware set is made of anodized aluminum, which makes it durable and lightweight. It also comes with a mesh storage bag for easy transport and organization.

What we Don’t Like: Some users have complained that the pot handle gets very hot during cooking.

Review: The Odoland 16pcs Camping Cookware Mess Kit is a great choice for campers. It has everything you need to cook and eat your meals when in the outdoors, including plates, cups, bowls, spoons, and forks. The pots and pans are lightweight yet durable anodized aluminum. The included mesh storage bag makes it easy to transport and keep everything organized.


Primus PrimeTech 2.3L

Price: $189.95.

Serves: 2 people.

Pieces: 9 pcs

Max capacity: 2.3L.

Total weight: 1.99 Pounds.

What we Like: Compact and lightweight, this cookware is perfect for solo campers or couples. The non-stick coating makes cooking a breeze, and the silicone base prevents the pot from scratching.

What we Don’t Like: High Price Tag, Not suitable for large groups.

Review: The Primus PrimeTech is not only compact but easy to use. Featuring a folding handle for storage, this cookware is the perfect option if you’re looking for something lightweight and versatile. The non-stick coating is a great addition, and the silicone base prevents scratches on your stove surface. The only downside is that is the price tag, but if you’re looking for something versatile and compact then the Primus PrimeTech is a great choice.


Stanley Base Camp Cook Set for 4

Price: $80

Serves: 2/4 people.

Pieces: 21 pcs

Max capacity: 3.5L.

Total weight: 5.8 Pounds.

What we Like: Durable, Nonstick interior, Compact, and Affordable.

What we Don’t like: No insulation or waterproofing so use caution when boiling water as it may cause the exterior to become extremely hot.

Review: The Stanley Adventure Camp Cook Set is the perfect camping cookware for two or four people who want a compact and lightweight set that can be easily stored in their backpack. It includes 21 pieces of camp cooking essentials that are all dishwasher safe and made with hard-anodize aluminum. The nonstick interior means you won’t have to scrub your cookware for hours after cooking dinner, just wipe it clean. The only downside is that it doesn’t have any insulation or waterproofing, so be careful when boiling water as the exterior can get quite hot.


GSI Outdoors, Pinnacle Dualist II

Price: $74.95.

Serves: 2/4 people.

Pieces: 10 pcs

Max capacity: 1.8L.

Total weight: 1.3 Pounds.

What we Like: Dishwasher safe, Lightweight, Durable, Compact size, Easy to clean.

What we Don’t like: The handles are not very durable, and the pots and pans do not distribute heat evenly.

Review: The GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Dualist II is a great all-around camping cookware set. It has everything you need to make the perfect meal while out on your next adventure, and it is very easy to use. The pots and pans are lightweight and compact, making them easy to store and transport. They also come with a nice carrying case for added convenience. The only downside is that the handles on the pots and pans are not very durable, so you need to be careful when handling them.

How To Choose a Camping Cookware 

If you are looking for a new camping cookware set, then you should consider some factors before making a purchase. The following list of questions will help narrow down the options and make finding your perfect set easier:

Types of Camping Cookware

There are three main types of camping cookware: pots and pans, grills, and stoves.

  • Pots and Pans: This is the most common type of cookware set and usually includes a pot with a lid and one or more frying pans. They are typically made from aluminum or stainless steel.
  • Grills: These sets come with a grill grate that can be used over a campfire or stove. They are great for cooking burgers, chicken, and steaks.
  • Stoves: These sets include a small stove that fits in the pot and is fueled by alcohol or solid fuel tabs. They are perfect for boiling water or cooking simple meals.

Material

The material used to make the camping cookware is important because it can affect both its weight and cooking ability.

  • Aluminum: This type of metal heats up quickly, but may not be as durable or strong as other options. It tends to wear out over time and will need replacing. Aluminum also transfers heat very well which makes this a good option for cooking.
  • Stainless Steel: This is a strong, durable metal that does not wear out easily and will last years without needing replacement. It also tends to heat up evenly which makes it perfect for frying eggs or pancakes.
  • Titanium: Titanium is an excellent material because it heats quickly and stays hot throughout the meal making it perfect for cooking pasta or rice. It is also very lightweight, making it a good option for backpacking.
  • Cast iron: Cast iron is a heavy material that retains heat well. This makes it perfect for cooking slowly over a campfire. However, it is also the most expensive option and can be difficult to clean.
  • Silicone: These sets are made of heat-resistant silicone instead of metal. They do not conduct heat well, but they make up for this with their lightweight and collapsible design. While it is convenient to be able to collapse your cookware into a small ball, these materials can also melt over direct flames or high temperatures.
Best Camping Cookware

Additional Consideration

After you have decided on the type and material of your camping cookware set, there are a few other things to consider.

  • Size: The size of the pots and pans is important because it will determine how much food you can cook at once. If you are backpacking or camping with a small group, then a smaller set may be ideal.
  • Packability: How easy the cookware is to pack away is also an important consideration. Some sets can be folded or collapsed into a small size, making them ideal for traveling.
  • Weight & Portability: The weight and portability of the cookware is also important. If you are backpacking, then you will want a set that is lightweight and easy to carry.
  • Set or Individual Pieces: Another thing to consider is whether you want a complete cookware set or just individual pieces. This will depend on your needs and what you plan to cook on your camping trip.
  • Lids: Most pots and pans come with lids, but some do not. If you need a lid for your pot, make sure to check before purchasing.
  • Grips: Make sure the handles on your cookware are heat resistant and will not melt or blister over an open flame.
  • Price: Finally, it is important to consider the price of a set before making a purchase. If you are on a budget, then there are many affordable options available that will work well for simple meals. However, if money isn’t an issue and quality cookware is what you want, then expect to pay more for a set made from stainless steel or titanium.

Additional Features

There are several features that can make a camping cookware set even better. Most sets include at least one pot with a lid and two frying pans, but there are also other options available to you:

  • Pot Supports: Some sets come with special pot support that can be used over the campfire to increase cooking ability.
  • Stove Compatibility: If you purchase a stove-specific set, then it will not work on other stoves or in your kitchen. However, many larger pots and pans are compatible with most stoves and can double as serving dishes on the table.
  • Lifter: If you purchase a set with lifters, then it is possible to cook over an open fire without having to use heavy tools or sticks. Some sets may come with more than one type of lifter which gives greater flexibility in meal preparation and cooking methods.
  • Additional Pans: You can also buy additional frying pans, pots, or bowls to add to your set if you need more versatility in your cooking.
  • Cleaning: Most camping cookware can be easily cleaned with a little soap and water. However, some sets come with a special cleaning brush that helps remove food particles and grease from the surface of the cookware.
  • Storage Bag: Finally, some sets come with a special storage bag that can be rolled up to make packing and traveling easier.

How to Clean and Store

After using your camping cookware, it is important to properly clean and store the set. If you don’t do this before storing them away for later use, then rust may develop on the metal which can cause discoloring or corrosion of the pots and pans.

  • Cast Iron: For cast iron sets that are not pre-seasoned (more on that later), it is important to clean them immediately after use. Use a stiff brush and hot water to scrub away any food particles or grease. Then, dry the cookware completely and apply a thin layer of vegetable shortening or cooking oil. Store in a cool, dry place until your next camping trip.
  • Stainless Steel: Stainless steel cookware is easy to clean and does not require any special care. Simply use hot water and soap to scrub away any food or grease. Dry completely and store in a cool, dry place until your next camping trip.
  • Titanium: Titanium cookware is also easy to clean but should not be used with abrasive materials as it can cause scratching and damage to the surface. Use hot water and soap to clean, then dry completely and store in a cool, dry place until your next trip.

For more details on how to clean and store your camping cookware, click here.

FAQ

Q. Is it safe to put my cookware in the dishwasher?

A. No, you should not place your camping cookware or any other type of cooking equipment in the dishwasher. The high pressure and hot water can cause damage to both the surface and internal components of metal pots and pans which will reduce their lifespan significantly. Instead, simply wash them with hot water and soap before drying completely.

Q. Can I use my cookware on an open fire?

A. Yes, most camping cookware is designed to be used over an open fire. However, you should always check the manufacturer’s instructions to make sure that your specific set is safe to use in this way.

Q.What kind of metal should I look for in a cook set?

A. There are many options available for camping cookware sets, but the best types to look out for include stainless steel and titanium. While cast iron can be durable, it is also heavy and must be seasoned before use (more on that later).

Q. What should I do if my food sticks to the pot or pan?

A. If your food begins to stick while you are cooking, then there is probably too much grease or oil in the pan. Try removing some of this by pouring it into a separate dish before continuing with your meal preparation.

Q. How do I clean my cookware after using it over an open fire?

A. To clean cast iron pots and pans that have been used over an open fire, simply use a stiff brush and hot water to clean away any food particles or grease. Then dry the cookware well before storing it in a cool, dry place until your next trip.

Q.How Many Pieces Of Cookware Do I Need?

A. How many pieces of cookware you need depends on how much cooking you plan to do while camping. If your idea of a campsite feast is boiling water for instant coffee or oatmeal, then one pan should be more than enough. On the other hand, if you want to have multiple courses or are just an enthusiastic chef who enjoys a challenge, then a larger set with more pieces might be in order.

Q. Can I use my cookware at home?

A. Yes! The same camping cookware that you take on your outdoor adventures can also be used to prepare delicious meals while relaxing at home or hosting friends and family for an evening meal outside by the barbecue pit.

Share your love

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *