Food is one area that can put people off a backpacking trip. Even if you decide to go on a backpacking trip with processed food, you can get the required energy but you can never get the satisfying taste. With the best backpacking cookware set, however, you can enjoy, warm and healthy food without compromising on taste.
Finding the best hiking cookware set can be tricky though, as getting a high amount of functionality in a small space is a difficult task. Plus, they come in different combinations, which further escalates the challenge of picking the best backpacking cook set that suits your needs.
To help you in the matter, we have gone through several backpacking cookware reviews and come up with a list of the Best Backpacking Cookware In 2020 with a comprehensive guide.
OUR TOP PICK
Sea to Summit X Pot Backpacking Cookware
With a lightweight and durable hard-anodized aluminum base to offer fast cooking time, Sea to Summit X Pot Backpacking Cookware is the best backpacking cookware on our list for its innovative design sidewalls that collapse and ask for minimum storage space in a backpack.
Design
Engineered with an aluminum base and food-grade silicon sidewalls, this outdoor cookware includes one X-Pot, two X-Bowls, and two X-Mugs. As the walls of each component are flexible, the whole set collapses into a single neat, spaceship-like disk. While the base of the backpack pot is made from anodized aluminum which is corrosion-resistant, durable, and lightweight, each X-bowl features a rigid food-grade nylon base that can be used as cutting boards while prepping meals. In addition to that, the X-Pot features a food-grade transparent lid that is complete with a built-in strainer and secures itself with silicone handles when not in use.
Performance
With tall, flexible silicone walls and a thick aluminum base, cooking any meal in this backpacking pot is as easy as a pie. Further, the translucent lid is easy to secure and handle. Even the x-bowls that are included in the set are handy as their flexible walls let you accurately pour the liquid into another container; while rigid and reinforced nylon rings keep the rims sturdy for spill-free drinking. Plus, X-Mugs have internal gradient markings so you can measure out the contents if required.
What Makes This Backpacking Cookset Stand Out
Collapsible design for space-efficient storage
Heat resistant silicone walls
Translucent lid for cooking management
Lightweight and durable
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS
Best For: Space Saving
Dimensions: 14 x 8 x 2.5 inches
Material: Silicone / Aluminum
Weight: 1 lb. 9 oz.
EDITORS CHOICE
GSI Outdoors Halulite Microdualist II Backpacking Cookware
Crafted with a proprietary alloy for even and efficient heat conduction, GSI Outdoors Halulite Microdualist II Backpacking Cookware is our editor's choice for its impressive cooking capability that saves energy without any scratches, burn circles, or grams.
Design
This backpacking cooking kit features a 1.4-liter pot that uses hard-anodized Halulite alloy to distribute even heat while making it lightweight and abrasion-resistant. To cover the pot, it includes a crushproof, heat-resistant, nylon pot lid that does not deform. With the pot, the cook set also involves two insulated mugs with lids, two bowls, 2 folding 'foons', and a welded sink/storage bag. With folding foons that adjust themselves from 3.7 inches in compact to 6.1-inch-long fork-spoon hybrids, every component in this backpacking cooking gear is designed to support integrated nesting for space-saving.
Performance
Thanks to its nesting set up, gsi outdoors halulite asks for minimum space and adjusts itself to create space for stove and 110g fuel canister if required. The pot offers efficient cooking and includes convenient graduations to allow easy measurements. Further, the included bowls and mugs feature a low center of gravity and sip-it lid to virtually eliminate spills, which makes the adventure a delight for backpackers.
What Makes This Backpacking Cookset Stand Out
Proprietary alloy base for even cooking
Integrated nesting design
Includes durable and heat-resistant, nylon pot lid
Comes with a handy spout for easy pouring
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS
Best For: Even Cooking
Dimensions: 5.9 x 5.6 x 5.5 inches
Material: Hard-anodized aluminum/polypropylene/nylon 6-6
Weight: 1 lb. 0.7 oz.
BEST VALUE
MalloMe Backpacking Cookware
Easy to clean and store, MalloMe Backpacking Cookware is the most budget-friendly option on our list as it comes as an all-in-one cookware mega bundle to meet all your needs to cook delicious meals on the trails at a price that is friendly to many backpackers.
Design
Built with the highest quality of non-toxic anodized aluminum, this backpacking cooking set comes with a durable non-stick pot with a pot cover. With that, it includes a non-stick pan, 2 bowls, one folding stainless-steel spork, one soup spoon, and a wooden spoon spatula. Moreover, the backpack cookware comprises a cleaning sponge to facilitate hygiene and includes a durable nylon travel bag to make storage easy and secure.
Performance
Offering quick heat conduction to ensure complete cooking in no time, this camping cookware is built to last and is a perfect size for 1 youth scout or adult hiker backpacker. Further, the construction of each component of the cook set is toxic-free. Moreover, the inclusion of a non-stick layer on the pan promotes quick and easy cooking. Plus, the entire 10-piece mess kit collapses into a small bundle, thus saving the valuable space in your bag.
What Makes This Backpacking Cookset Stand Out
Sturdy built
Offers toxic-free cooking
Easy to clean
Includes a carry bag for easy carriage
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS
Best For: Healthy Cooking
Dimensions: 6.6 x 6.3 x 3.8 inches
Material: Hard-anodized aluminum/nylon
Weight: 0.9 lbs.
MSR Quick 2 System Backpacking Cookware
Coming as an ultra-compact backcountry meal prep solution for a practical backpacking duo, MSR Quick 2 System Backpacking Cookware gets featured on this list for its wide range of uses that can be adapted to varying needs of a short or long backpacking trip.
Design
Including two pots of capacity 1.5 and 2.5 liters, this cookware for backpacking is designed to serve a small group on a backpacking trip. Both the included pots are hard anodized ones, but the smaller one also features a non-stick surface. Along with that, the cook set includes 2 polypropylene DeepDish plates, 2 insulated mugs, and a pot handle. Plus, the backpack cooking set features a brushed aluminum lid with an integrated strainer which eliminates the hassle of draining water from noodles or steamed vegetables.
Performance
With two different aluminum pots of different capacity, MSR Quick allows you to prepare a range of dishes. Thanks to its Talon made pot handle that attaches to and removes from both pots via exterior brackets, scratches are never an issue with the pots. In addition to that, each component displays excellent durability and stick resistance that eliminates any cleaning challenge. On top of that, its DeepDish plates work well no matter what's on the menu, be it soup or pasta.
What Makes This Backpacking Cookset Stand Out
Includes two pots for versatile cooking
Locks heat inside mugs and bowls
Features efficient lid with strainer
Comes with a handle that fits both the pots
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS
Best For: All Purpose
Dimensions: 7.5 x 5 inches
Material: Hard-anodized aluminum/polypropylene/HDPE
Weight: 1 lb. 12 oz.
GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Backpacker Cookware
Built with advanced technology to offer efficient cooking while offering supreme scratch resistance, GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Backpacker Cookware gets its spot on our list for its patented Teflon radiance mechanism that offers enhanced heat dispersion for preparing meals in no time.
Design
Designed to accommodate 2 people in one go, this cookware backpacking includes 2 bowls, 2 insulated mugs, 2 Sip-It lids, a 2-liter pot with lid, a frypan, a pot gripper, and a stuff sack. The included pot and frypan feature a Pinnacle-series hard-anodized aluminum construction for even heating. Further, they are integrated with a non-stick layer and Teflon® Radiance technology to offer supreme scratch resistance. Moreover, the included pot lid is made of BPA-free plastic and features an integrated strainer and flip-up tab.
Performance
With enhanced heat dispersion is supported by a tight sealing lid, therefore you can expect your meals to get ready in no time with this pot. Further, its non-stick coating is tough enough to handle use with most metal utensils. But what makes this cookset for backpacking so impressive is the mugs that are supported by EVA foam sleeves dual-port Sip-It tops, to avoid spills and keep your beverages hot for a long time. Crafted with high melting polypropylene, its component offers good impact resistance and does not retain odors of any sort once they are cleaned.
What Makes This Backpacking Cookset Stand Out
Stands tough against heat and scratches
Includes dual layering on pot base for efficient cooking
A heat locking mechanism on mugs
Easy to clean
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS
Best For: Durability
Dimensions: 8.2 x 5.4 inches
Material: Hard-anodized aluminum/polypropylene/nylon
Weight: 1 lb. 12.8 oz. ounces
Stanley Adventure Base Camp Cookware
Packed with 19 different pieces to offer a full-kitchen convenience on outdoor adventures, Stanley Adventure Base Camp Cookware set is another top-rated backpacking cook set on our list that is compact and utilitarian as it is suitable to cook a range of meals with perfection.
Design
Perhaps the most impressive aspect of this backpack cookset is its traditional styled stainless steel that stands against heat, toxication, and rust. Along with a 3.5-liter pot that comes with a vented lid and 3 layered 7.25-inch frying pan, Stanley includes plates, bowls, cutting board, extendable spatula, extendable serving spoon, sporks, and drying rack that are made from BPA-free and dishwasher-safe plastic. Plus, the plastic used has a high melting point which lets you cook your meals without getting deformed. With such durable components, this back is one self-contained package to make backpacking trips delight.
Performance
Whether it is construction, arrangement, or quality, this backpack cooking gear is worth mentioning in each category. Durable and useful, the entire cook set nests into the pot and secures with included locking bungee and to thanks to the marking on the lid, you can even figure out the optimal stacking order for arrangement. Further its camping pots ensure that your food is healthier and does not include any chemicals or odor as they are made of food-grade steel and plastic. Moreover, such materials are easy to clean meaning you can get the best food with minimum effort.
What Makes This Backpacking Cookset Stand Out
Made of food-grade materials
Comes with marking to help arrangement
Compact packaging
Easy to clean
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS
Best For: Healthy Meals
Dimensions: 11.1 x 6.1 x 10.9 inches
Material: Stainless Steel/Plastic
Weight: 5 lbs. 9.6 oz.
Aoduoer Mess Kit Backpacking Cookware
Capable of delivering even heat on a stone fire pit, camp grill, wood stove, or gas fuel stove, Aoduoer Mess Kit Backpacking Cookware gets featured on our list for its non-stick coating which allows for easier cooking and cleanup regardless of fire type or long cooking hours.
Design
Ideally designed to support 2 to 3 backpackers, this top rated backpacking cook set includes a high-quality anodized aluminum pan and pot that are durable, light-weight, and sturdy to survive on any fire source. Besides, both the pan and pot feature non-stick coating to further facilitate the cooking. Along with the pan and pot, the cook set for backpacking also includes a medium bowl, a small bowl, drawstring pouch, free folding fork, knife, spoon, and a utensil bag to carry them.
Performance
Capable of finding the right balance under high and low heating scenarios, both the pan and pot of this backpack cook set allow fast and even heating. With that, they are easy to clean as they feature a non-stick surface as well. Plus, all of its 9 components can be stored together in the included drawstring bag for saving space and easy carriage.
What Makes This Backpacking Cookset Stand Out
Suitability to multiple types of cooking
Allows fast heating
Easy to clean
Includes a bag for easy carriage
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS
Best For: Any fire source
Dimensions: 8 x 7 x 3.5 inches
Material: Aluminum/Plastic
Weight: 5 lbs. 9.6 oz.
Soto Amicus Stove Combo Backpacking Cookware
Coming as a combination of an innovative design cook set and a lightweight stove, Soto Amicus Stove Combo Backpacking Cookware is one of the best backpacking pots on the market that offers a complete and reliable solution in tough weather and challenging scenarios.
Design
With two aluminum constructed ultralight cooking pots of 1 and 0.5-liter capacity, this cookware combo comes with a stainless-steel based stove with a triple O-ring valve system to give you a complete and reliable solution to meet your cooking needs. The included stove weighs just 2.9 oz. and is compatible with standard isobutane canisters such as Primus, Snow Peak, MSR, and Jetboil. Moreover, it is outfitted with a stealth igniter, which allows you to light the stove without using matches or a lighter.
Performance
Featuring an innovative way where the small pot doubles as a lid for the large pot, you can combine the two for cooking a range of dishes such as pasta, scrambles, and much more. To support that, the included stove in the combo uses a unique raised ledge at the crown of the burner head for stable heating in windy conditions. Further, its 4 spring-loaded, pot-support legs are engineered for easy setup and pot stability. And all that comes in compact and lightweight design so that it is easy to transport.
What Makes This Backpacking Cookset Stand Out
Includes multipurpose pot
Comes with a weatherproof burner
Outfitted with a stealth igniter
Features O-ring valve system for added reliability
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS
Best For: Tough Weather Cooking
Dimensions: 5.1 x 5.1 x 3.9 / 4.7 x 4.7 x 2.4 inches
Material: Aluminum/Stainless Steel
Weight: 11.2 ounces
TOAKS Titanium Backpacking Cookware
Boasting an ultralight construction that holds up to wear and tear on the trail, TOAKS Titanium Backpacking Cookware gets featured on our list for its simple yet useful design that lets backpackers boil enough water for dehydrated meals plus coffee or tea.
Design
With a pure titanium-based construction, this backpacking cook kit is one of the most lightweight backpacking cookware that resists corrosion, withstands high temperatures, and eliminates metallic aftertaste. Adding on, the titanium cookware camping comes attached with handles that fold away for compact storage and features a lid with a lockable grip and vent holes to let steam escape. Plus, it includes a mesh storage sack that comes in handy in carrying and storing the pot on backpacking trips.
Performance
Offering a capacity of boiling up to 0.75 liters of water in one go, this backpackers cooking gear allows you to cook simple dishes while avoiding any extra weight in your bag. Further, it is compatible with other TOAKS cookware as it can nest a 110g gas canister and a small stove, a small cup, or a small Titanium Backpacking Wood Burning stove, which makes it a perfect option to use in combinations as well.
What Makes This Backpacking Cookset Stand Out
Extremely lightweight
Round bottom edge allows for easy cleaning
Nests perfectly with other TOAKS cookware and stoves
Includes a mesh bag for easy carriage
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS
Best For: Lightweight Backpacking
Dimensions: 3.75 x 4.38 inches
Material: Titanium
Weight: 3.6 ounces
BioLite KettlePot Backpacking Cookware
With a unique design that pours like a kettle and cooks like a pot, BioLite KettlePot Backpacking Cookware grabs the last spot on our list for its quick-cooking abilities to prepare meals for four or more backpackers in one go.
Design
Featuring an innovative design to meet the needs of an outdoor meal, this cookset backpacking is constructed with ultra-thin stainless steel and offers more durability against pressure and scratches than anodized aluminum cookware. With a stainless-steel body for quick heating, its design also includes a BPA-Free top and a vertical Cook Touch handle to support easy cooking. Further, it uses a silicone seal to keep liquids secure and avoids spills that will spoil your backpacking trip.
Performance
Simple yet featureful, you can expect a quick-cooking from this gear as it includes a heat shield to help flames in concentrating while blocking the wind. Using it is quite easy as the attached handle is foldable and comes in a shape that is easy to grip. With that, it also includes a translucent top that lets you keep an eye on the cooking status of the food. On top of all, the kettle pot doubles itself as a carrying case and allows the CampStove to nest inside, which helps in saving space in your pack.
What Makes This Backpacking Cookset Stand Out
• Includes efficient sprout for pouring liquids
• Translucent top lid for better cooking
• Innovative design to save space
• Allows cooking in high winds
MODEL & ACCESSORY SPECS
Best For: Liquid Diets
Dimensions: 10.2 x 5.2 x 5.2 inches
Material: Stainless Steel
Weight: 1 lb.
How to Choose A Backpacking Cookware – Buying Guide
Weight
As with any backpacking equipment, weight is crucial while choosing a backpacking cooking gear. Though there can be other factors to influence your mind, you need to ensure that you are getting ultralight backpacking cookware that serves the purpose of the backpacking trip.
Material
Titanium, stainless steel, aluminum, and halulite are the most common materials and all have different qualities. Aluminum and titanium are very light metals. Halulite is an alloy that is a great conductor and therefore very good for cooking. Stainless steel, on the other hand, is a very reliable material that you see in a vast number of backpacking cook sets.
Cleaning
The best cookware for backpacking comes with a non-stick surface that is easy to clean. Further, look for a pan with a wider mouth to ensure that you can get your hand in there and clean it properly.
Capacity and Volume
Some titanium pots are designed to for one person whereas others are designed for one or two people. It’s important to get this right as any miscalculation can add unnecessary weight to your backpack or fall short to meet your cooking requirements.
Packed Size
The packed size is a huge consideration when it comes to this type of gear. The space in your backpack is already limited if you are on a long journey. Most of the time though you will attach a pack to the back of the backpack so you can travel on your weight. Here you don’t want it to be too big as it not only restricts you from attaching anything else but also annoys you with its swinging movements.
Durability
Best backpacking cookset is durable but at the same time lightweight. Make sure all the other aspects of the cookware such as pots and pans as well as folding handles are well-made so that your stuff sack can withstand against abusive treatment.
Lids and Spouts
Lids are an important feature in making sure that your food cooks quickly as it helps to retain the heat, which is especially important in cold temperatures. If your cookware has a spout it means that some of the heat can escape. If you love making hot drinks, however, then you will most likely want to have a spout.
Handles vs Pot Grabbers
Obviously, you need to be able to lift and move around your pot when it is hot but this can be done one or two ways, either by a fold-out handle or via a removable handle. There is no real difference between the two as they both do a great job. A removable handle though does have the downside of being able to be lost.
FAQs
Q: What cookware do I need for backpacking?
A: Although there is no single answer to it, you can consider taking essential cookware such as a cooking pot or a cooking pan on a backpacking trip. With that, you can add a spoon, a plate, and bowl, and a few more basic inclusions if your bag has enough space.
Q: Which is better titanium or ceramic cookware?
A: Titanium cookware is better as it is tough and allows quick cooking compared to a ceramic backpacker cookset.
Globo Surf Overview
Cooking outdoors is a great experience only if you have the best backpacking cook set by your side. Hopefully, this guide has given you all the information you need to get out there and pick the best backpacking stoves for you.