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Best Camping Cookware Set 2022

Last Updated: 7/23/20

After a long day on the mountain or in the river, nothing beats a well-cooked meal. The best camping cookware sets are designed to bring high-level culinary possibilities to outdoor cuisine. Whether you’re backpacking through Montana or relaxing in Yellowstone, the perfect cookware set for you is out there. You’ve just got to find it.

We’ve taken the liberty of analyzing over 20 of the most talked-about cookware sets on the web. We stacked them up against one another in an effort to discover which sets our readers need to know about.

Table of Contents

The following eight top pick cook sets were chosen for their balance of affordability, weight, pack-down size, and more. For more information on what we look for in a great set of cookware, check out the buyer’s guide that follows.

Best Camping Cooking Sets Comparison Table

Odoland 22pcs Camping Cookware Mess Kit, Large Size Hanging Pot Pan Kettle...
Stansport Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Cook Set 6 Piece Set (16903)
Stanley Base Camp Cook Set for 4 | 21 Pcs Nesting Cookware Made from...
Odoland Camping Cookware Mess Kit, Lightweight Pot Pan Kettle with 2 Cups,...
GSI Outdoors, Pinnacle Dualist II Camping Cook Set
MSR Quick 2 Camping Cook Set
Odoland 22pcs Camping Cookware Mess Kit, Large Size Hanging Pot Pan Kettle...
Stansport Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Cook Set 6 Piece Set (16903)
Stanley Base Camp Cook Set for 4 | 21 Pcs Nesting Cookware Made from...
Odoland Camping Cookware Mess Kit, Lightweight Pot Pan Kettle with 2 Cups,...
GSI Outdoors, Pinnacle Dualist II Camping Cook Set
MSR Quick 2 Camping Cook Set
Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime
$55.99
$62.78
$90.00
$31.99
$74.95
$124.95
Odoland 22pcs Camping Cookware Mess Kit, Large Size Hanging Pot Pan Kettle...
Odoland 22pcs Camping Cookware Mess Kit, Large Size Hanging Pot Pan Kettle...
Amazon Prime
$55.99
Stansport Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Cook Set 6 Piece Set (16903)
Stansport Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Cook Set 6 Piece Set (16903)
Amazon Prime
$62.78
Stanley Base Camp Cook Set for 4 | 21 Pcs Nesting Cookware Made from...
Stanley Base Camp Cook Set for 4 | 21 Pcs Nesting Cookware Made from...
Amazon Prime
$90.00
Odoland Camping Cookware Mess Kit, Lightweight Pot Pan Kettle with 2 Cups,...
Odoland Camping Cookware Mess Kit, Lightweight Pot Pan Kettle with 2 Cups,...
Amazon Prime
$31.99
GSI Outdoors, Pinnacle Dualist II Camping Cook Set
GSI Outdoors, Pinnacle Dualist II Camping Cook Set
Amazon Prime
$74.95
MSR Quick 2 Camping Cook Set
MSR Quick 2 Camping Cook Set
Amazon Prime
$124.95

Best Car Camping Cookware Set:
Odoland 22pcs Camping Cookware Mess Kit

Pros:

  • Includes an impressive 22 different pieces
  • Quite affordable for a 4-person group cookware set

Cons:

  • A bit too heavy for backpacking
  • Teflon surface is prone to scratching, so avoid contact with knives


Buy on Amazon

One of the things that we appreciate about Odoland is how many cooksets they have available. This 22-piece set happens to be our favorite from this brand. We will however take a look at some of the smaller Odoland kits later in the review.

What you’re getting here is a comprehensive cookware set that has everything needed to feed four people. For families and larger camping groups, this is the most affordable collection of essential items. We’ve decided to name it our best car camping cookware set for this reason. When fully packed down and nested, this set is small enough to live in the back of any car.

The aluminum used with Odoland products is usually coated with a thin layer of Teflon. That is the case with this 22-piece set, which both a non-stick pot and non-stick pan. Teflon coating is a more affordable alternative to higher-grade surface metals, but it certainly gets the job done. You just have to be careful not to scratch the Teflon surface, as this could lead to rust problem.

Our favorite feature here is the full-nesting ability. Everything fits into one small carrying case, which lets users keep things nice and tidy. It’s a bit too heavy for backpacking, but ideal for car camping and picnics.

What’s Included:

  • 4L aluminum pot (1x)
  • 5L large aluminum non-stick pan (1x)
  • 6L kettle (1x)
  • Stainless steel eating dishes (4x)
  • Stainless steel cups (4x)
  • Spoons (4x)
  • Forks (4x)
  • Small storage bags (2x)
  • Large carrying bag (1x)


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Best Cast Iron Cookware Set for Camping:
Stansport Cast Iron 6 Piece Cookware Set

stansport cast iron set

Pros:

  • Cast iron offers unmatched heat retention and flavor
  • Works great over the open fire or coals

Cons:

  • Quite heavy compared to aluminum and titanium


Buy on Amazon

You can ask any experienced camp chef around the world, and they are going to say the same thing. Cooking with cast iron is an experience that cannot be matched by aluminum or even titanium. It’s all about the way that cast iron cookware conducts heat and develops that ideal isomerized glaze. The flavors are deep and intense, and cleanup is always a breeze.

Of course, cast iron does have a few significant drawbacks. The first is overall weight; there is no other cookware quite as heavy as cast iron. This means that this set from Stansport is not going to be following you on your trek up the Continental Divide. (Unless of course you are out of your mind, but may through-hikers are).

Cast iron cookware also requires some preparation before using. The seasoning process doesn’t take long but is an important step in getting the most out of your cast iron.

As a camping set for backyards, picnics, and car camping, this one is great. The iron keeps food warm for much longer, and all the components can be used with open flame.  And for the price, this might be one of the most affordable cast iron sets on the market.

What’s Included:

  • 10 inch fry pan (1x)
  • 3 quart chicken fryer (1x)
  • 10 inch Dutch oven (1x)
  • Dual-purpose lid (1x)
  • Hot handle holder (1x)
  • Dutch oven lid lifter (1x)


Buy on Amazon

Best Stainless Steel Camping Cook Set:
Stanley Adventure Base 4x Camp Cook Set

stanley adventure base

Pros:

  • Primary 3.5L pot is made of stainless steel
  • Significantly reduced price compared to previous models by Stanley

Cons:

  • Plastic & silicone components are at risk of melting


Buy on Amazon

Our team has had a look at quite a few Stanley products over the last few years. It seems like they are expanding further and further into the camping game. If we’re being honest … we’re totally okay with that. Simply put, Stanley knows how to make good stuff and not charge too much for it.

This 4-person set is not as comprehensive as some (19 pieces in total) but it’s highly durable and stackable. It utilizes stainless steel for it’s primary 2.5 Liter pot, which is certainly superior to aluminum. They prevent it from being to heavy by keeping the walls relatively thin. That makes this kit suitable for longer-distance treks and backpacking trips.

The fry pan is aluminum however, but that isn’t an issue here. It’s got a fairly thick coating on the bottom, providing improved heat dispersion.

When it comes to backpacking, we don’t see why someone would need to bring both a plate and bowl. If someone wanted to, they could cut the overall weight of this kit down significantly by ditching the plates. But for car camping or tailgating, you might as well just leave everything together.

One potential issue is that there is a lot of plastic and silicone in this kit. Anyone who is using a campfire as their heat source should be careful not to melt anything.

What’s Included:

  • Steel 3.5L pot (1x)
  • Bowls (4x)
  • Plates (4x)
  • Frying pan (1x)
  • Silicone hot pad (1x)
  • Dish drying stand (1x)
  • Sporks (4x)
  • Lid lifter (1x)


Buy on Amazon

Best Value Group Cookset:
Odoland 10 Piece Camping Cookware Mess Kit

odoland 10 pc

Pros:

  • Great lightweight kit for solo or dual backpacking trips
  • Way more affordable than the 22-piece kit from the same brand

Cons:

  • Included cutlery is prone to rust
  • Not totally non-stick (so pack a small amount of cooking oil)


Buy on Amazon

Like the 22-piece kit from the same manufacturer (see above) this Odoland mess kit uses non-stick covered aluminum for its primary components. The result is a remarkably lightweight 2-person cooking kit that has everything needed for adventure.

Both the pots and the kettle are a bit smaller than those offered in the 22-piece version. This kit is also lacking the plates and bowls of that larger kit, instead offering only a pair of stainless cups. While the lack of these items might seem like a drawback, it certainly isn’t for backpackers. This is a great mess kit for long distance hiking, and in fact is perfect for the solo adventurer. 

One of our concerns with a kit like this is that the included cutlery is not made of stainless steel. In fact, we don’t really know what it is. But it is most definitely going to be at risk of developing rust if not properly dried out after use. Also, we thought that the non-stick coating was not as function as we had hoped. Fortunately, you can fix this by packing a bit of butter or oil.

What’s Included:

  • 9L aluminum non-stick pot (1x)
  • 86L aluminum non-stick frying pan (1x)
  • 8L tea kettle (1x)
  • Stainless steel cups (2x)
  • Serving Spoon (1x)
  • Fork (1x)
  • Knife (1x)
  • Carabiner (1x)
  • Carrying Bag (1x)


Buy on Amazon

Best Value 2 Person Cook Set:
GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Dualist II Camping Cook Set

pinnacle dualist ii

Pros:

  • Great, highly functional 2-person cook set for backpacking
  • Includes GSI’s welded wash basin stuff sack

Cons:

  • Does not include a frying pan


Buy on Amazon

Anyone who has spent more than a few days on the trail has likely used a product from GSI Outdoors. This amazingly popular backpacking brand as made a name for themselves in affordable gear. Functionality is their other credo, which is certainly apparent in the construction of this awesome cooking kit.

The best use for this kit is truly 2-person trekking and backpacking. Everything is designed to be as light as possible. It also packs very nicely into itself. This means that it isn’t going to take up a whole lot of room in the pack. After all, cutting on both weight and size is the whole key to backpacking.

At just under eighty bucks this is a great value Cookset. It doesn’t offer the durability of titanium, so all of the pots and pans here can be dented. But we think that anyone who uses this kit will agree that it is up for adventure.

One thing that impressed us is the welded wash basin. This is a feature we have only seen with GSI. It certainly makes cleanup a snap, and it doubles as the carrying bag.


Buy on Amazon

Best 2 Person Cook Set for Backpacking:
MSR Quick 2 System Cook Set

Pros:

  • Includes a 1.5L and 2.5L pot, making meal prep easier
  • Insulated mugs are great for coffee & tea

Cons:

  • Does not include a frying pan
  • More expensive than other 2 person cook sets


Buy on Amazon

There is an ongoing debate about whether to go with MSR or GSI for backpacking gear. Both companies are reputable and proven in the market. Both companies create relatively low-priced cookware that can actually survive out on the trail. That’s why we cant look at the MSR Quick II system without also looking at GSI’s Pinnacle II (above). 

Both of these 2-person backpacking cooksets come with the essentials. The MSR kit comes with two different pots (as opposed to GSI’s 1x). In addition, the MSR Quick II comes with one coated non-stick surface and one un-coated surface. This isn’t going to mean a lot to everyone, but dedicated cap chefs might appreciate the added versatility.

The insulated mugs are our favorite thing about this kit. Keeping coffee or tea piping hot can be a highly valuable ability in the backcountry. Most camping mugs, be they stainless steel or aluminum, actually loose their heat pretty quickly.

At 1 pound, 12 ounces, this one is pretty comparable to the similar kit from GSI Outdoors. It is a bit more expensive, but this is no doubt due to the extra pot that it includes.

What’s Included:

  • 5L non-stick Duralite DX (1x)
  • 5L hard anodized aluminum pot (2x)
  • Strainer lid (1x)
  • Deep dish plates (2x)
  • Insulated mugs (2x)
  • Hot pot handle (1x)


Buy on Amazon

Best Double Pot Cookware Set for Camping & Backpacking:
MSR Ceramic 2-Pot Set

msr ceramic 2 pot set

Pros:

  • High quality ceramic coating improves cooking ability
  • Other MSR gear like mugs & plates can be nested inside

Cons:

  • More expensive than some of the larger, more comprehensive camping cookware sets


Buy on Amazon

There is a certain simplicity with this set that needs to be appreciated. While it is certainly a little more expensive that some of the more comprehensive sets, it’s got it where it counts. This 2-pot set features both a 3.5-liter pot and a 1.5-liter pot. This proven combination makes it possible to heat water in one and prepare food in the other.

Both of the pots are made on anodized aluminum, but they have the added benefit of a non-stick ceramic coating. This coating is able to improve the heat transfer properties of the aluminum. This allows for a more even cooking temperature. It also helps outdoor chefs avoid the dreaded ‘hot spots’ of aluminum cooking.

This pot set is perfect for the backpacking enthusiast who wants to create their own outdoor kitchen. We’re talking about the kind of person who knows which cup they prefer, which utensils they prefer, etc. These are some of the nicer pots in MSRs lineup, and would make a great addition to anyone’s gear.

What’s Included:

  • 5 L hard anodized aluminum pot (1x)
  • 5 L hard anodized aluminum pot (1x)
  • Aluminum strainer lid (1x)
  • Talon pot handle (1x)

 


Buy on Amazon

Best Full-Size Cookware Set:
GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Base Camper Backcountry Cook Set

gsi base camper

Pros:

  • Large sized pots allow you to feed way more people
  • GSI’s Triple Teflon coating is more effective than coating used by other brands

Cons:

  • Teflon-coated cookware can not be used directly over open flame


Buy on Amazon

Thus far in our review we have looked at some great solo and dual cookware sets. This next one offers more volume, more capabilities, and a sturdier build for the ultimate family cook set. The larger pot is a whopping 5 liters, more than double the side of the other pots on this list.

The set also includes a smaller (though still comparatively large) 3-liter pot. Both of these pots come with an advanced Teflon coating. The idea here is to cover the aluminum with something that is more scratch and stick resistant. While the Teflon does okay on both counts, these pans are not ‘non-stick’ that way your home cookware might be.

The addition of a frying pan is what makes this kit more versatile than other simple 3-pot kits. The fry pan features the same 3-layer coating as the two pots, also making it quite easy to clean.

The biggest drawback to cooksets with a Teflon coating is that they cannot be exposed to direct flame. Not only will the Teflon become compromised, but it is actually dangerous to inhale the resulting fumes. Therefore, the Pinnacle Base Camper Cook Set is more suited to a propane camp stove.

What’s Included:

  • 5 L hard anodized aluminum pot (1x)
  • 3 L hard anodized aluminum pot (1x)
  • 9” aluminum fry pan (1x)
  • Nylon strainer lids (2x)
  • Cutting board (1x)
  • Folding pot handle (1x)
  • Waterproof welded stuff sack / dish basin combo


Buy on Amazon

[Buyer’s Guide] What Kind of Camping Cookware Set do I Need?

If you haven’t already smashed that order button, then perhaps you are still not convinced. If your quest for a camping cook set continues, then take a few considerations with you. Here are some of the things that we learned while making this guide.

Later, we’ll explain the criteria that we used to arrive at our top picks. At the end, we’ll be answering some of the most commonly asked questions about camping cookware. 

Comparing Camping Cookware Brands

Back in “the day”, we all just had that one favorite outdoor gear brand that we could always trust. That isn’t the case these days, as dozens of young, creative companies have stepped up to the plate. These companies have brought new innovations to camping cookware. Meanwhile, established brands like MSR and Stansport continue to put out quality gear.

While creating our review guide, we wanted to choose products from a wide range of brands and price range. Here are some of the companies that we featured on our list:

Odoland

Odoland is a relative newcomer to the nesting cookware game. But from what we have seen, we can expect them to stick around for a long while. There are a bunch of different cookware sets available through Odoland, each with slightly varying contents.

This is unlike some of the larger brands, who tend to focus on fewer products. Odoland’s most attractive feature is the relative affordability. These kits tend to be quite a bit cheaper than MSR or GSI Outdoors, while usually using the same aluminum.

Stansport

Stansport has been around since 1949, spending most of its life as a business selling camping gear. They are by no means a company that forges cast iron products. This means that there is a good chance their Cast Iron Camping Cook Set that we featured here was contracted by another company.

Still, Stansport always manages to put out more affordable products than the competition. These entry-level camping items allow anyone and everyone to get outside for an adventure. While these products don’t last as long as some of the more expensive ones, they can more than get the job done.

Stanley

When it comes to camping gear, Stanley PMI is the company that you’re buying from. This is a subsidiary of the tool giant Stanley Black & Decker, which has been making quality tools for over 100 years.

In the last 5 years specifically, Stanley PMI has dominated the market with insulated mugs, cups, thermoses, and more. These aren’t the cheapest dishes and cook pieces available, but the extra cost is well worth it.

GSI Outdoors

One of the relatively younger companies, GSI Outdoors was founded in 1985. Now after almost 35 years of operation, they seemed to have caught up with the competition. GSI is known for making smart camping and backpacking gear for serious enthusiasts.

While not all GSI products are super expensive, they do tend to cost more than brands like Stansport. GSI Outdoors is most often compared to MSR, another one of the brands featured here. The most helpful way to differentiate the two is that GSI tends to be more affordable. In addition, MSR has a larger variety of high-end gear targeted at professional-level adventurers.

MSR

Short for Mountain Safety Research, MSR got its start as a company with the sole aim to improve the safety of mountaineering equipment. This idea, that better gear leads to better adventures, is paramount to their operation.

Throughout the 80s and 90s, MSR was really focusing on stoves and cookware. Today there are hundreds of different products from MSR … everything from tents to snowshoes. In general, MSR makes a high-quality product that is backed up by a legendary support team. They would prefer to keep your old gear out of the landfill, so they maintain an in-house repair shop.

The Benefit of Nesting Camp Cookware for Backpacking & Traveling

Some people might think it is a gimmick, but the one thing that all camping cooksets have in common is that they ‘nest’. This means that they stack inside one another for easy transport. Even the larger 20+ piece cook sets are capable of being stacked nicely into itself.

The most obvious benefit is a reduction in size. Anyone who has had to lug a full Cookset into the backcountry knows how full a backpack can be. Weight is the other obvious issue, and making products that are small enough to nest usually also makes them lighter.

So some people begin to ask themselves whether they need a camping cookware set. For example, if you’re doing a weekend at your favorite state park, you might not need anything compact. If you have enough room to bring your favorite cookware from home, then feel free. Just make sure you are not putting cookware over direct fire that is not rated for it.

More Camping Cookware Considerations

As you’re browsing through the many different cookware sets available online, pay attention to the following:

Number of Pieces

The camping cookware sets on our list vary greatly in the amount of individual ‘pieces’ that are included. But be careful to not judge a product by the number of pieces it has. In most cases, things like forks, knives, hot pads, and lids are included in this estimation.

For each of our product reviews, we attempted to include an accurate list of each piece that is included. It is important to note that in many cases, information was not available on every piece in the kit. Specifically, we were unable to determine what kind of metal was used for some of the cutlery.

With things like Amazon product specifications, it is safe to assume that if it was a high-quality metal, it would be listed as such for promotional purposes. Fortunately, folding camp cutlery is an industry of its own and there are many options available.

Construction Material: Stainless vs. Hard Anodized Aluminum

With only a few exceptions, the type of metal used in camping cookware is aluminum. This is a very affordable, accessible metal that also has the advantage of being relatively lightweight. The added cost of stainless steel or titanium (on the high end) make them unpopular choices for most folks.

One of the biggest weaknesses of aluminum is that it can have poor heat transfer properties. This means that any heat applied through the bottom might become unevenly distributed. This is what leads to scorching and uneven cooking … two things that have ruined far too many camp meals.

To solve this problem, cookware manufacturers are adding either a ceramic or Teflon coating to the aluminum. This surface layer helps the heat distribute more evenly. Both ceramic and Teflon surfaces also add scratch resistance and partial non-slip performance.

Coating: Ceramic vs. Teflon

The debate between ceramic and Teflon is one that comes straight from the culinary world. In other words, you will find proponents of both materials, as well as pros and cons for both. However, it is important to remember that camping cookware is a bit different. It is necessary to factor in the unique variables of outdoor cooking when making your choice.

Ceramic coatings have better heat retention than Teflon, and it is a much safer material. Teflon is better at non-stick performance, but it is a material that should not be exposed to open flame. Ceramic-coated cookware on the other hand can usually handle flames just fine (but watch out for plastic handles).

Conclusion: Our Top Pick Cookware Set for Group Camping

Our top pick cookware sets represent two distinct categories: comprehensive mess kits and pot sets. If you’re looking for a full-sized cookware collection for a group of four, the GSI Pinnacle Base Camper is the best that you can buy. It’s a bit more expensive than the comparable 22-piece set from Odoland, but the cookware is of a slightly higher quality.

If you don’t need all the extra pieces, the MSR Ceramic 2-pot set is a killer deal. These triple coated pots would make a great centerpiece to any custom-designed cookware set. Because they’re from MSR, they can be used in tandem with dozens of different pans, utensils, and pack-down formations. That’s one of the best parts about going with MSR, especially if you dig customization.

FAQ

Most frequent questions and answers

What’s the difference between a camping pot set and a camping mess kit?

There are a few products on our list (and many more on the web) that call themselves “mess kits”. These kits tend to be a bit more comprehensive with what they include. Generally, a good mess kit will come with things like plates, silverware, cups, and bows. This is in addition to the primary pots and pans that are needed to cook the meal.

Can you use a camping cookware set over an open fire?

It is possible to cook with any type of metal over a fire as long as you are being careful. This means elevating the pot above the fire on some sort of rack or hanging mechanism. It also means letting the fire burn to largely embers before exposing the cookware.

Note that Teflon coatings can also melt in certain circumstances. Actually, it becomes a gas … and it isn’t good for you. So, keep those non-stick surfaces facing up and away from the fire!

Do cookware sets include a stove or a gas canister?

No, none of the camping cook sets on this list come with a stove or gas canister. However, most of them are designed some internal space reserved just for them. In some cases, this depends on the brand (MSR cookware is fitted for MSR canisters, as an example).

Why is cast iron a popular choice for camping?

A lot of people swear by cast iron for its heat retention and non-stick capabilities. In order for it to be non-stick, it has to be properly seasoned and cared for. A lot of people might not want to deal with the added maintenance and seasoning process. However, once a pan is properly seasoned, cleaning is a snap.

The other big benefit is that cast iron is pretty much indestructible, at least in a campground setting. We’ve seen some cooking pots get destroyed because they were stepped on. That is most certainly not something that is going to happen with a cast iron pan.

The biggest and most obvious drawback to cast iron is that is a really heavy. You’d have to be mad to want to carry a cast iron skilled on a backpacking trip. But car camping is the perfect excuse to bring the cast irons out for a spin.

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By Will Cecil

I am an avid outdoors-man and adventure addict. I love travelling, I'm currently confined to being a weekend warrior and along with Emily seek breathtaking vistas and new experiences.

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