How to Choose Camping Cookware
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.
