It is well known that a backpacking plate is one of the most useful tableware that you can bring on your outdoor trip. A plate can help you eat foods rather easily and effortlessly. There are a few plates that can be used as a cookware. These plates can often be used as an outdoor frying pan or a small pot for boiling water. Outdoor plates are often more durable than normal plates. They are also lighter in weight and more compact. I have listed a few backpacking plates below that you should consider or take a look at.
Best Backpacking Plates – Quick Chart
| Backpacking Plates | Weight | Material | Dimensions | Lightweight |
| 1. Snow Peak Titanium Trek Plate | 2 oz | Titanium | 7.5″ x 7.5″ x 1″ | Yes |
| 2. Sea to Summit Delta Plate | 3.52 oz | Food grade Nylon 66, BPA free | 11.8″ x 8.5″ x 3.9″ | Yes |
| 3. Stansport Stainless Steel Plate | 6.4 oz | Stainless steel | 9″ | Yes |
| 4. MSR Alpine Plate | 4.4 oz | 18-10 Stainless steel | 7.5″ | Yes |
| 5. Wealers Stainless Steel Plate Set | 5.22 oz | 18/8 stainless steel | 8.5″ | Yes |
| 6. GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Steel Plate | 8.3 oz | Stainless Steel | 9.5″ | Yes |
| 7. MSR Deep Dish Plate | 2.2 oz | Polypropylene | 12.2″ x 8.8″ x 1.6″ | Yes |
| 8. TOAKS Titanium D190mm Plate | 2.4 oz largest plate | Titanium | 7.8″ x 7.6″ x 1.3″ | Yes |
| 9. GSI Outdoors Cascadian Plate | 3.2 oz. | Polypropylene | 9.5″ | Yes |
| 10. HaWare Store Stainless Steel Plates | 5 oz each | Stainless Steel | 8″ x 8″ x 0.6″ | Yes |
| 11. Light My Fire 8-Piece BPA-Free Meal Kit 2.0 | 13.5 oz | Polypropylene | 30.4 oz | 8 |
| 12. GSI Outdoors Cascadian 1-Person Table Set | 7.8 oz | Polypropylene | 9.5″ | 6 |
| 13. Fozzils Bowlz Pack | 1.4 oz each | BPA free | 9″ | 2 |
| 14. Stansport Enamel Camping Tableware Set | 5 lbs | Stainless steel edges, enamel finish | 10.5” | 24 |
| 15. Stanley Base Camp Cook Set For Four | 5 lb. 6 oz | Plates are poly material or plastic | 6″ | 19 |
How To Choose A Backpacking Plate
Types Of Backpacking Plates
Cookware / Frying Pan
Backpacking plates that are made out of metal can also be used as a cookware. Most backpackers use these plates as frying pans. A lot of backpackers will use items that are multipurpose so that they can save space on their backpacks and the weight will also be less.
Tableware
Backpacking plates can be made out of many materials but tableware for backpacking is often made out of plastic. Plastic plates are very lightweight and compact. They can be foldable and so on. There are many backpacking plates that are meant to be tableware and not be used as cookware.
Disposable
Disposable plates are also very common. You can bring disposable plates on a backpacking trip but please carry it with you. Do not throw it on the trails or into nature. Let’s keep the parks clean. Disposable plates are often very lightweight and compact.
Choosing The Backpacking Plate Material
The material can vary depending on the design or company. You can get stainless steel, titanium, plastic, silicone and so on. Each type of material will have their own strengths and weakness. Certain materials can be folded like silicone and plastic. Some materials are durable like stainless steel. Metallic types can be used as cookware as well. Titanium and aluminum are common examples. Pick the material that you prefer. It is different for everyone.
Hard-Anodized Aluminum
A lot of mess kits are made out of hard anodized aluminum. This is a great material for a cookware and tableware. This is very cheap or affordable. A lot of mess kits or cookware sets are made out of this material. This is a form of metal so you can often use the plate as a cookware as well.
Plastic
Plastic is very compact because most plates made out of plastic can be folded. Plastic is very durable and lightweight which makes this material very ideal for backpacking. Just make sure that the plastic is non-toxic and BPA free. There are also many different kinds of plastic to choose from with varying degrees of texture, softness and hardness.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is one of my favorite materials. This is very durable and scratch resistant. We can clean plates made out of stainless steel rather easily. This is also rust resistant and corrosion resistant. Stainless steel items tend to last for a very long time.
Titanium
Titanium is a great material for backpacking also. This is very lightweight, corrosion resistant, rust resistant and very easy to carry. I love that this material works well for backpacking purposes. We always want to carry items that are very lightweight because the more weight we carry; the more energy we waste.
Wood
Wood is an amazing material. Wood can be very durable also. A lot of backpacking plates that are made out of wood are very lightweight and easy to carry. Some plates are also biodegradable and disposable. Wood is becoming very popular and lots of people are choosing wood over other materials.
Health Concerns You Need To Consider
BPA-Free
We all would like items to be BPA free. BPA is a toxic substance that has been known to cause illnesses and diseases. BPA is a very common substance from plastic items. Since there are a lot of plates that are made out of plastic, we should be careful that this substance is not in the plates that we are thinking of getting.
Phthalate free
Another dangerous substance are phthalates. This can cause some serious damage to our organs and cause numerous amounts of health problems. It is important to make sure that the item that we are getting is free of this dangerous substance. We might get sick if we are using plates that are full of phthalates.
Other Considerations You Should Think About
Lightweight
The plates that we are going to bring to the backpacking trip must be lightweight. Also try not to bring disposable plates. They become garbage if you throw them and leave them in the trail. Anyway, having lightweight plates can definitely help. The lighter our backpacks, the easier it is to hike and go up in elevation. We don’t get tired easily and we have more energy to play and have fun. So getting lightweight backpacking gear is often very important.
Compact
The more compact the plates, the better. Our backpacks have a limited capacity. This basically means that we cannot carry a lot. The room or space in our bags are limited. We need to make sure that we get the most compact items as possible. Not just with plates. We should use compact items in all of our backpacking gear.
Price
The price can vary per company and per material. Some materials are cheaper than certain materials. What I notice is that the better and more popular the item, the more expensive it becomes. So while there are many affordable items, you may want to pay some extra money for better items. It may be cheaper in the long run to get a high quality item even if it is expensive.
Durability
The more durable the plates, the better in my opinion. There are lots of items that I brought to the outdoors that broke while in my backpack. Maybe I am carrying and not organizing my items well. But my mistakes do not have to be your mistakes. Get items that are durable and well made. This will make sure that you will have plates that will last for a long time.
Multipurpose
Multipurpose items allow us to save backpack space and shed some weight of our backpacks as well. If we can use a plate as a cookware then we are basically using one item for multiple purposes. This is great if we are in a backpacking trip. Weight and backpack space are very important when it comes to backpacking. Even losing a pound or so can make a huge difference. The more weight that we carry, the more we are going use energy.
Best Backpacking Plates
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1. Snow Peak Titanium Trek Plate
Weight: 2 oz
Material: Titanium
Dimensions: 7.5 x 7.5 x 1in.
Lightweight: Yes
Feature Summary: No metallic smell or taste and will not rust, very strong plate handles, can be used as a plate, frying pan, and bowl
Short Review: I am suggesting this backpacking plate mainly because I am positive you will really like it. I found that this is awesome and it is really sturdy. The simple fact is that this is high quality and one of the best that I have ever tried. This is made out of titanium which makes this very lightweight, durable and naturally nontoxic. The best part is that we can use this as a frying pan also. This is a multipurpose backpacking item that is also very affordable. Amazing plate that can be used as a cookware and tableware at the same time. This is very lightweight which allows us to carry more backpacking gear like accessories or survival equipment.
2. Sea to Summit Delta Plate
Weight: 3.52 oz
Material: Food grade Nylon 66, BPA free
Dimensions: 11.8 x 8.5 x 3.9in.
Lightweight: Yes
Feature Summary: Ultra-durable nylon 66 can withstand high heat and cold, odor and stain resistant, dishwasher safe, BPA free
Short Review: This lightweight plate is among the greatest that I have ever tried. This plate works exceptionally well and it will make you happy when you try it. Sea to Summit is an amazing company that has a lot of tableware, cookware and gear that are meant for the outdoors. I use this in combination with other items. One of the best and lightest plates that I know of. This is a great plate from them that a lot of backpackers like. This remains to be one of the very best.
3. Stansport Stainless Steel Plate
Weight: 6.4 oz
Material: Stainless steel
Dimensions: 9in.
Lightweight: Yes
Feature Summary: Lightweight, easy to clean and easy to store, perfect for camping or backpacking, high quality stainless steel, durable and great for backpacking
Short Review: This plate is outstanding and I like it a whole lot. Easy to clean plates like this one are very good. This is constructed out of high quality stainless steel that won’t rust or degrade over time and is easy to clean whether you’re in the woods or your backyard. I love the stainless steel material that this is created out of. Very beautiful and durable. This should lasts for a very long time. I see this a lot with people who love the outdoors because this is very useful. One of the best items that you can get. This can be used as a cookware and plate at the same time. Whoever came up with this idea is a genius. I make use of this whenever I can.
4. MSR Alpine Plate
Weight: 4.4 oz
Material: 18-10 Stainless steel
Dimensions: 19cm (7.5in)
Lightweight: Yes
Feature Summary: Item designed for outdoor activities, materials used are very high quality, versatile, lightweight, and strong, dent-resistant, lightweight and easy to carry
Short Review: One of the things I like regarding this outdoor plate is that it is very wonderful. This is constructed from dent-resistant 18-10 stainless steel and built to withstand heavy use without adding much weight or bulk to your pack. MSR is an amazing company and I have a lot of their outdoor gear with me. Compact design makes this plate very desirable because we need all the space in our backpacks. Easy to clean and can be used as a cookware to cook foods as well. This works really well. I highly recommend it. I am happy I came across this accidentally.
5. Wealers Stainless Steel Plate Set
Weight: 5.22 oz
Material: 18/8 stainless steel
Dimensions: 8.5 Inches
Lightweight: Yes
Feature Summary: Durable materials will make this set last for a long time, plates are great for the outdoors, Super lightweight set of plates, sleek design, occupies very little space, BPA and toxin free
Short Review: This is a pretty incredible set of plates. The set is constructed out of 201 stainless steel plates offer lightweight engineering for long treks through the mountains, or camping with family. This features a super lightweight design that offers simplified storage and compliments your existing camping kitchen accessories. The selling price is incredibly inexpensive and it is the reason I recommend this item to lots of people. Companies including the one that created this outstanding item will have a great deal of followers and its popularity will continue to rise if they keep making unbelievable items like this one. Pretty reliable and beautiful tableware and I love the way this looks.
| Check Out My Other Reviews – backpacking bear food containers – backpacking pillows – backpacking mats – backpacking sleeping bags – backpacking frying pans |
6. GSI Outdoors Glacier Stainless Steel Plate
Weight: 8.3 oz
Material: Stainless Steel
Dimensions: 9.5in.
Lightweight: Yes
Feature Summary: Made by an amazing company, durable, lightweight, rust-proof, fire-proof, and non-reactive, great item for the outdoors
Short Review: This is an amazing stainless steel plate for backpacking that looks amazing. Since it is made of stainless steel, this plate is rust-proof, fire-proof, and non-reactive. A good item to for our foods since it is non-toxic and safe. This weighs around 8 ounces which is very light compared to others. This makes it great for camping, backpacking and other outdoor activities. A good item that works well with a reasonable price tag.
7. MSR Deep Dish Plate
Weight: 2.2 oz
Material: Polypropylene
Dimensions: 12.2 x 8.8 x 1.6in.
Lightweight: Yes
Feature Summary: Outdoor friendly, designed to be compact and space saving, Wide like a plate, deep like a bowl, multipurpose, versatile and very useful
Short Review: This is a pretty impressive lightweight plate. This is a high quality item that I know you will certainly love. MSR is an amazing company and they create amazing cookware for the outdoors. This is a great item from them. Made out of durable polypropylene or durable plastic which makes this very durable and can be used as a bowl as well. The nested design is great because it can allow us to save space in our backpacks. A good item to have for eating foods while in a backpacking trip.
8. TOAKS Titanium D190mm Plate
Weight: 2.4 oz
Material: Titanium
Dimensions: 7.8 x 7.6 x 1.3 inches
Lightweight: Yes
Feature Summary: Designed to be very compact, this is very high quality, Tasteless, odorless, non-toxic and dishwasher safe, designed for backpacking, camping and traveling
Short Review: You will like this backpacking plate mainly because it is very good. . Versatile item that makes the outdoors a lot more fun and this is high quality as well. Can be used as a traditional plate or a frying pan. One of the best tableware that you can get. Made from titanium which makes this very durable, non-toxic, rust free and perfect for the outdoors. A good plate if you plan on going to an extended backpacking trip because this is very light in weight and can be used for cooking as well.
9. GSI Outdoors Cascadian Plate
Weight: 3.2 oz.
Material: Polypropylene
Dimensions: 9.5 diameter
Lightweight: Yes
Feature Summary: Materials are very high quality, great item for outdoor activities and very durable, Non-absorbent, BPA free polypropylene that’s 100% recyclable, stackable, lightweight, and durable
Short Review: You can purchase lots of plate however this is still among the best that is available at this time. This tableware is well-constructed. Just by looking at this item, I know that you will like it. GSI is an amazing company and they have a lot of outdoor gear in their arsenal. This one is a plate that is made out of durable plastic. Plastic tends to be really lightweight so if you want to pack very light then this is a good choice. This item is an awesome purchase for the price and the plastic is also pretty thick so it is very durable.
10. HaWare Store Stainless Steel Plates
Weight: 5 oz each
Material: Stainless Steel
Dimensions: 8 x 8 x 0.6 inches
Lightweight: Yes
Feature Summary: Company is very good, very durable because of high quality materials, each plate is made out of stainless steel, lightweight but durable
Short Review: This amazing set of plates for backpacking will amaze you. This just makes the outdoors a lot easier and this is very high quality as well. This is constructed out of 18/8(304) stainless steel that is looks amazing while also being very resilient. You get 4 plates for a very affordable price which is why I love this. Stackable design makes this very compact and easier to store or transport. The plates are BPA free and non-toxic, eco friendly and very durable which makes them perfect for kids and adults of all ages.
| Check Out My Other Reviews – backpacking mess kits – backpacking pillows – camping mess kits – map cases – wheeled backpacks |
Mess Kits For Backpacking
These mess kits are often a set of items that may include plates, bowls, flatware, cookware and more. These are very affordable and great for backpacking. These have plates and other tableware that are very lightweight and compact.
11. Light My Fire 8-Piece BPA-Free Meal Kit 2.0
Weight: 13.5 oz
Material: Polypropylene
Dimensions: 30.4 oz
Number Of Items: 8
Feature Summary: One of the best items for the outdoors, 8-piece designer mess kit, dishwasher and microwave safe, BPA-free, Polypropylene will not soften at higher temperatures
Short Review: I am normally amazed considering that this backpacking mess kit continue to satisfy a number of people. This meal kit can be used in a lot of ways. Perfect for camping, backpacking, picnics, casual activities, lunch boxes for work and more. Made out of bio based plastics that are very safe and non-toxic which makes them perfect for storing foods or eating foods. 8 pieces in total and has everything you need to enjoy a good meal while on a camping trip.
12. GSI Outdoors Cascadian 1-Person Table Set
Weight: 7.8 oz
Material: Polypropylene
Dimensions: 9.5 in.
Number Of Items: 6
Feature Summary: Compact design, save space, 6-piece place-setting include plate, bowl, mug, and cutlery, lightweight, durable, flexible polypropylene
Short Review: I love this set of tableware a good deal and I know you will also. This is really high quality, effective and works well. When you try this item, you will discover how amazing it is. Made out of polypropylene or plastic which is quite thick so this should be very durable. A good set of tableware for one person and should be enough to handle most types of foods while in a camping or backpacking trip. Made out of 100% recyclable polypropylene which is BPA free and non-toxic.
13. Fozzils Bowlz Pack
Weight: 1.4 oz each
Material: BPA free
Dimensions: 9″
Number Of Items: 2
Feature Summary: Company makes high quality items, does not take much room, material made this very durable, nonstick, folds flat, compact, lightweight, easy clean surface, BPA free
Short Review: Another set of tableware that is amazing. The simple fact that this is incredibly high quality and worth every penny are adequate explanations why a large amount of men and women are purchasing this item. If you love the outdoors, then this is a great set to have. The exquisite design and wonderful structure permit this item to be very compact, foldable and resilient as well. There is something extraordinary regarding this company, and I am lucky enough to have discovered their items by accident. It is true that I only recommend high quality items such as this due to the fact I want people to be happy with their order. It is no wonder lots of people love this, it is very easy to clean and great for busy people.
14. Stansport Enamel Camping Tableware Set
Weight: 5 lbs
Material: Stainless steel edges, enamel finish
Dimensions: 10.5” plates
Number Of Items: 24
Feature Summary: Brilliant stainless steel edges, lightweight and compact, coated blue glazed enamel for unparalleled durability, constructed with strong and durable materials
Short Review: I am impressed with this set of tableware. I am certain you will love this for the reason that this is very durable and the price tag is also pretty affordable. This is absolutely one of the very best purchases I’ve ever made. This is a big camping tableware set that is great for a big group. The usefulness this brings for camping purposes is amazing which is why I highly recommend this. This is an exceptionally inexpensive, well-built item and it is extremely durable.
15. Stanley Base Camp Cook Set For Four
Weight: 5 lb. 6 oz
Material: Plates are poly material or plastic
Dimensions: 6in
Number Of Items: 19
Feature Summary: Well made, scratch resistant, rustproof 18/8 Stainless Steel pot, multi-layer base on frying pan creates even heating vented, lids are durable and BPA free
Short Review: I really like this set of tableware and lots of men and women like it as well. Stanley is an amazing company that creates very high quality cookware and tableware for the outdoors. This unbelievable company continues to go beyond my expectations simply because this item is amazing. This is a great set for 4 people or more. There are a lot of things I really like relating to this high quality item and a good amount of people really like this tableware & cookware set too. Most of the items are made out of 18/8 stainless steel which makes them very durable, scratch resistant, will not melt and will not corrode as well. A good set that can be used for backpacking as well.
I recommend getting a biodegradable and compostable plate so you don’t hurt the environment.
I recommend just going with MSR if you are really serious about backpacking or camping. The brand is more expensive than the others but they lasts a lot longer.
The titanium and stainless steel plates can be used to cook eggs, bacon and other foods for breakfast so they are more useful than the others for backpacking.
I’ve been backpacking for quite some time and titanium is really the best material for any type of equipment for cooking or for tableware. Having said that, they do not look the same after repeated use but they still work well.
A lot of these plates are very good. I recommend getting the cheaper ones if you do not go backpacking all the time but most of the plates are very durable so most people will like them.
My family and I love to go backpacking so we just got the Stanley base camp. It is a little bit more expensive than the others but in the long run, we saved more by not getting individual pieces.
Me and my friends have been buying Keith titanium products lately. They seem very durable and they are very easy to use. Love the plates.
I bought the Wealers since they are very cheap. They work well for my needs. I will most likely get something more expensive but these plates are good enough for now.
I went with the MSR alpine plate. It is very costly but worth it. I’ve been using it all year long and no regrets whatsoever.