Camp Kitchen

Stoves are categorized by fuel type

• Canister: Screws onto canisters of isobutane or propane; easy to use and low maintenance but the fuel canisters aren't refillable

• Liquid fuel: Connects to refillable fuel bottles and burns fuels like white gas, kerosene and unleaded gas; works well in cold weather and at high elevation but requires priming

• Wood: Burns sticks and twigs and other wood; fire bans may limit use

Key features

• Integrated canister systems: Burner pairs with a fuel canister and integrated cooking pot
• Auto ignition: Push-button spark igniter (often on canister stoves) makes lighting easy
• Ultralight: Lightweight designs reduce pack weight

Do you want a cookset or individual pieces? 

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

Pick the cookware material to suit your activity.

• Aluminum is lightweight and affordable. Good for simmering foods without scorching. A drawback is that it dents easily.
• Hard-anodized aluminum resists scratches and abrasion and last a long time.
• Stainless steel: More durable and scratch resistant than aluminum but heavier so is better suited for car camping.
• Titanium cookware is the lightest option, heats up quickly and highly corrosion resistant. But titanium costs more than other options.

Other considerations and items

• Pot size: The largest pot in a cook set should hold about 1 pint per backpacker or camper in your party.
• Number of pots: If you plan to cook dehydrated foods for two backpackers, then one pot is sufficient. More elaborate meals mean more pots.
• Lids reduce cooking time and save fuel. Some double as plates.