Backpacking Food

Do you want a cookset or individual pieces? 

You can buy a collection of pots and pans that nest together or build a set piece by piece.

Cookware materials

• Aluminum: Lightweight and affordable. Good for simmering without scorching. Dents easily.
• Hard-anodized aluminum: Resists scratches and lasts a long time.
• Stainless steel: More durable and scratch resistant than aluminum. Heavy.
• Titanium: Lightest option, heats quickly and is highly corrosion resistant. Pricy.

Other considerations

• Pot size: The largest pot in a cook set should hold about 1 pint of water per person in your party.
• Number of pots: If you plan to rehydrate food for two backpackers, one pot is sufficient. More elaborate meals require more pots.
• Lid: Adding one reduces cooking time and saves fuel. Some double as plates.