Best Camping Cookware – Expert Review

Updated: February 12, 2024
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Looking for the best camping cookware? Look no further because the Stanley Adventure is a high quality, all-in-one, 21 piece set made from stainless steel.

For less than $25, you can get yourself a MalloMe. Made from high quality Aluminium, this set is lightweight and compact.

When you want luxury out in the field, check out the STANSPORT for a kitchen quality, stainless steel, 7-piece set that is really built to last.

Best Camping Cookware (Top Picks)

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Best Camping Pots and Pans

We reviewed over 25 camping cookware for this article. Below are the best camping cookware that made our short list.

  1. Stanley Adventure Base Camp - Best Overall
  2. Lodge Dutch Oven Combo
  3. STANSPORT Heavy Duty 7-Piece Stainless Steel Clad - Best Heavy Duty
  4. GSI Pinnacle Camper - Best Premium
  5. Winterial 11 Piece Camping Set 
  6. TOAKS Titanium 750ml Pot
  7. MalloMe 10-Piece Cookware Mess Kit - Best Value
  8. Bisgear 16 Pcs Camping Cookware Stove

Read our complete buyers guide for camping cookware.

Best Camping Cook Set

1. Stanly Adventure Base Camp Kit

Stanley Base Camp Cook Set for 4 | 21 Pcs Nesting Cookware Made from Stainless Steel & BPA Free Material | Incl Pot, lid, Cutting Board, Spatula, Plates, Spoons, Forks, Bowls, Dish Rack, Trivet

5/5 Overall Rating

The best feature of the Stanly Adventure Base Camp Kit is that it’s got everything you could possibly need from prep to clean-up.

All 21 pieces can be packed into the 3.5 L pot, providing a compact and easy stowage.

These include a stainless steel pot and pan, which can be used over wood fire, as well as four sets of eating utensils and a drying rack.

The kit in its entirety is too heavy for backpacking, but is great for car or RV camping. If you’re looking for something compact yet comprehensive, this is probably the kit for you.

Main Features
  • Scratch-proof
  • Food-grade, 18/8 stainless steel pot and pan
  • BPA free
  • Multi-layer frying pan ensures even heat distribution
  • Rust-proof
What we like
  • Versatile lid use (pot or pan)
  • Packable into pot
  • High quality stainless steel
  • Long-lasting
  • Durable
What we dislike
  • Plates and bowls are a bit small
  • Pan is not non-sticky
  • Spork is a bit flimsy

2. Lodge Dutch Oven Combo Cooker

Lodge Pre-Seasoned 2-in-1 Cast Iron Combo Cooker - 3.2 Quart Deep Pot Cooker + 10.25 Inch Frying Pan - Use in the Oven, on the Stove, Grill, or Over a Campfire - Use to Sear, Sauté, Broil, Fry- Black

5/5 Overall Rating

The Lodge Dutch Oven Combo Cooker comprises two pieces, including a deep skillet and a shallow one, which can be combined to form a Dutch Oven.

Both pieces are seasoned, meaning you won’t be scrubbing away blackened food when you could be enjoying the sunset.

The pieces can be used for various cooking methods, including; deep frying, sautéing, braising, or grilling.

These skillets are cast iron, which means they’ll last long, but it also makes them pretty heavy – we wouldn’t recommend taking them on a backpacking trip!

Main Features
  • Pre-seasoned (100% natural vegetable oil)
  • Heat-retention
  • Even distribution of heat
  • Quality cast iron
What we like
  • Able to use on open flame
  • Combo allows for diverse uses
  • Affordable
  • Long-lasting
What we dislike
  • Handle requires extra care or it breaks
  • Coating peels off
  • Join between lid and deep skillet is not as sufficient for heat retention

3. STANSPORT Heavy Duty 7-Piece Stainless Steel Clad

Stansport Heavy Duty - Stainless Steel Clad Cook Set (369), 7 Piece

4.5/5 Overall Rating

This STANSPORT cookware set  provides you with an extensive range of pots – you can either use them all at once, or swap them out depending on how many people you’ll be camping with.

Either way, you’ll never need to buy another pot after this. Each pot is made of 18/10 stainless steel and bottom-clad in triple-ply 0.2 mm aluminum.

The pots nestle into one another, making the whole set easy to transport, and they can even be taken backpacking.

Main Features
  • Great conductivity and heating
  • Made from kitchen quality 18/10 stainless steel and triple-Ply 2.0mm aluminum-clad bottom
  • The set includes: 4 qt. pot, 3 qt. pot, 2 qt. pot, 1 qt. pot, 9.75" fry pan, universal lid, handle
  • Detachable handle can be used on all pots and fry pan
  • All items fit in the pot together
What we like
  • Easy to clean
  • Compact
  • High quality material
  • Fairly large pots
  • Handle has good grip and is stable
  • Sturdy
What we dislike
  • Only one handle that can be tricky to detach

4. GSI Pinnacle Camper

GSI Outdoors, Pinnacle Camper Cooking Set for Camping and Backpacking, 2 to 4 Person

4.5/5 Overall Rating

The GSI Pinnacle Camper is the crowd favorite.. Like the Stanley Adventure Base Camp set, this cookware set kind of has it all and then some – this set even comes with insulated mugs.

The whole kit can be configured for four people to use in a car or caravan camping, or for two people backpacking.

However, GSI Pinnacle is pretty expensive, so it’s built to last for years to come. But if you’re only looking to use it once or twice, you might consider a cheaper alternative.

Main Features
  • Anodized aluminum pots and pan coated with Teflon Radiance non-stick technology
  • Includes 4 plates, 4 insulated mugs and sip-it tops and sleeves, 4 bowls, 2L pot with strainer lid, 3L pot with strainer lid, fry pan, folding handle and stuff sack/wash basin
  • Items are color-coded
  • Plates, bowls and mugs made from durable Infinity Clear Polypropylene
  • Removable handle locks onto pots and pan
  • Crushproof, heat-resistant strainer lids and silicone rings don't deform when packed
What we like
  • Each pot comes with a lid
  • Grip handle is easy to use
  • Stacks together well
  • Stuff sack/wash sink
  • Long-lasting dishes
  • Extensive set of high-quality items made to last
What we dislike
  • Handle gets hot
  • Heavy
  • Flimsy sporks

5. Winterial 11 Piece Camping Set

Winterial Camping Cookware and Pot Set 10 Piece Set For Camping / Backpacking / Hiking / Trekking

4.5/5 Overall Rating

The Winterial Camping Cookware set is pretty lightweight, so you can use it for backpacking and solo camping trips.

However, the eleven piece set only includes one bowl and no spork, so you will have to buy some extras to be fully prepared for a camping trip.

The pots and the pan are made of aluminum and coated with Teflon so that they can be used either over an open fire or on a stove.

Main Features
  • 1.5lbs
  • All items are stored together in a carry
  • Pot, frying pan and tea kettle are made of solid and light aluminum oxide
  • All items had non-stick Teflon coating
  • Dome shape
  • Preassembled poles
  • Vents
  • Wall pockets
What we like
  • High-temperature and friction-resistant
  • Durable
  • Easy cleaning
  • Compact and lightweight
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Handles don’t get too hot
What we dislike
  • Small
  • Eggs tend to stick in the pan

6. TOAKS Titanium 750ml Pot

TOAKS Titanium 750ml Pot

5/5 Overall Rating

This TOAKS pot  is made from Grade 1 or 2 titanium and is super light, making it perfect for ultralight backpacking.

The size of this pot means it’s great for big campfire meals, and you can easily boil two cups of water in it without worrying about water boiling over.

Other pieces of TOAKS camping cookware can be stored in the pot when not in use, like the 375 or 450 ml cups, alongside the TOAKS small wood stove and 4 oz gas canister.

If you’re going for a minimalist cooking approach, this might be the item for you.

Main Features
  • Titanium
  • 3.6oz (103g)
  • 750 ml capacity for boiling
  • Comes with a mesh sack
  • Has many useful accessories that can fit inside the pot: 375ml & 450ml cup, small Wood Stove, 4oz gas canister, 42oz water bottle 
What we like
  • Ultralight
  • Good quality material
  • Easy to clean
  • Great size
  • Very versatile
What we dislike
  • Handle gets hot when cooking
  • Ring on the lid could snapped if not careful

7. MalloMe 10-Piece Cookware Mess Kit

1 Liter Camping Cookware Mess Kit Backpacking Gear & Hiking Outdoors Bug Out Bag Cooking Equipment 10 Piece Cookset | Lightweight, Compact, & Durable Pot Pan Bowls - Free Folding Spork, Nylon Bag

4.5/5 Overall Rating

The MalloMe kit is pretty cheap considering you’ll get ten pieces worth of cookware.

The kit includes a cleaning sponge and mesh bag, and at only 1.75 lb it is rather light.

It’s generally considered the best low-budget cookware set, but if you’re looking for something that lasts longer and is more user-friendly, you might consider investing in a more durable kit.

Main Features
  • Non-Toxic Anodized Aluminum Camping Cookset
  • All 10 items store as a small bundle
  • Kit includes Anodized Aluminum Nonstick 1 L Pot, pot cover, nonsticky pan, 2 bowls, folding stainless steel spork, soup spoon, wooden spatula, cleaning sponge
  • Nylon travel bag drawstring pouch
  • 100% Satisfaction Guarantee
What we like
What we dislike
  • Bad heat distribution in pan
  • Bowls are too small
  • Not as well-made
16pcs Camping Cookware Stove Carabiner Folding Spork Set Bisgear(TM) Outdoor Camping Hiking Backpacking Non-stick Cooking Non-stick Picnic Bowl Pot Pan , Folding Spork , Mini Stove with Piezo Ignition

4.5/5 Overall Rating

The 16-piece Bisgear set
has everything you think you’d need, as well as a few things you didn’t even consider, perhaps.

Unlike other sets, this cookware includes a fork, knife, spoon and spork. Not only that, but you get a stove too, so this is one of the most comprehensive starter sets out there.

The pot and pan are made of anodized aluminum, making them non-sticky and quite lightweight, although it should be mentioned that the items aren’t dishwasher safe.

The set is also super cheap, but not all of the equipment is necessary, and there are often problems with the stove, so you could consider getting a less extensive set with better quality items.

Check Prices
Main Features
  • Anodized aluminum pot and frying pan
  • Set includes folding spork, soup spoon, small ladle, mini stove, pot, frying pan with cover, 2 plastic bowls, sponge, carabiner
  • All items are stored in a mesh bag
  • 100% satisfaction guarantee
What we like
  • Easy to clean pot and pan
  • Lightweight
  • Stainless steel, foldable cutlery
  • Lightweight
  • Keeps out bugs
What we dislike
  • Stove didn't work
  • Bowls were too small to use
  • Extra equipment is unnecessary

Summary

Buying the right cookware set really depends on the kind of camping you’d like to do, and how often you’ll be using the set.

Car Camping Cookware

If you’ll be car camping, and are willing to invest in some high quality items, we’d suggest going for the Stanley kit – it’s an extensive set which you can either use in its entirety, or as separate items, depending on the kind of camping you’re looking to do.

The GSI Pinnacle is rated a premium product, but comes at a premium price, and doesn’t offer too much more than the Stanley kit.

The Lodge Dutch Oven kit is extremely heavy, although if you prefer cast iron over any other material then it might be the one for you.

The STANSPORT set is the heaviest, but can feed the most people and might be a better option, if you’re making more advanced meals that need lots of pots. However, only having one handle for all the pots could be a disadvantage.

Backpacking and Hiking Cookware

On the other hand, if you need cookware for backpacking, you might consider some of the lighter sets.

One option is to take a minimalistic approach and purchase the TOAKS pot and a spork – this would be perfect for one- or two-person hiking.

If you think you need some more gear, then buying a complete set might be better. While compact and light enough for backpacking, the Winterial kit is lacking some essential items and is generally considered to be a bit pricey.

The MalloMe and Bisgear sets come in at a lower price, but if you’re buying for the long run then we’d suggest spending a bit more money and get kits that will last longer.

Cookware for Camping - Buyer's Guide (Key Features)


When purchasing a new cookware kit, the most important thing to go for is durability and quality. Easy cleaning is also a huge plus. Have a look at some of the factors for consideration when making your decision.

Car Camping and Hiking/Backpacking

If you’re car or RV camping, then weight isn’t such an issue, and you can buy thicker, more durable pots and pans. You can also include a few extra items, like a cutting board, drying rack and some cleaning equipment to make the whole experience nicer.

However, if you need cookware for backpacking or hiking, you’ll need something lightweight and you probably won’t get as much value out of all the extra pieces. When it comes to carrying your own gear, low weight is key.

Quantity and Capacity

How many people you’ll be cooking for totally impacts how much capacity you’ll need. If you’re car camping with a large group of people, then you’ll be able to buy a sturdy, large, pot or pan for bulk cooking.

If you’re going hiking, it might be better to have multiple pieces of smaller, lighter equipment. If it’s just for one- or two-person camping, then you can half the size.

Longevity and Durability

If this is just a once-off camping trip for you, then you probably don’t want to invest a huge amount of money in your cooking equipment. In this case, it’s probably best to try find something secondhand or go for a value for money starter kit.

However, if you love the outdoors and plan to use your cookware for a long time, you’ll want to spend those extra bucks on getting something sturdy and of higher quality.

Materials

Pots and pans can be made of various materials which impact their weight and durability.
These can be anodized aluminum, stainless steel or cast iron.

Either way, you’ll want something non-sticky for easy cleaning.

The material of the bowls and /utensils also makes a difference – some people prefer stainless steel, others don’t mind plastic. If you do go with plastic, BPA free options are probably best.

List of materials:

  • Anodized Aluminum 
  • Stainless Steel
  • Cast Iron
  • Silicone
  • Teflon or Ceramic Coatings

Cost

Your budget obviously has a role in all this. Camping costs can add up pretty easily, and we understand that spending over $100 on cookware can seem ridiculous. This only makes sense when you are not getting a one-off set, but plan for a long run.

Getting cheap sets might seem like a good idea, but you will end up replacing them frequently, so the savings won’t be as good as they might seem. 

Accessories

Camping gear, like anything, can range from simple to complex. If you’re really into gear, there are many additions you can purchase for your cookware set, like various grip handles, collapsible sinks or gas stove regulators. And if you can’t do without your morning coffee, there is a range of camping coffee makers out there. Keeping it simple is also pretty easy – it’s really up to you.

At the end of the day, it’s your camping trip, and you should customize your cookware to suit your kind of camping.

With all the products out there, shopping for even the simplest camping gear can be overwhelming, but with this guide you’ll be well on your way to choosing the best cookware for your trip.

List of accessories

About the author 

Mark Whitman

Mark has trekked extensively in Asia, Europe, South America and Africa. He founded Mountain IQ in 2014 with the sole aim to be the best online information portal to some of the most popular mountain destinations around the world. When not writing for Mountain IQ, Mark is out exploring the outdoors with his wife!

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