I just love to cook with backpacking stainless steel cookware. If there is a material that I like the most in my cookware then it would be stainless steel. Stainless steel is just safe, non-toxic, heats easily and very durable. I don’t have to worry about Teflon or other nonstick toxins getting into my body. I have listed a few amazing cookwares for backpacking that are very good and made out of stainless steel. These stainless steel cookware are a few of the greatest items that have tremendous amounts of capabilities and functionalities. The company who created these cookware are quite trust worthy which is why I believe that you will be satisfied with a few of them.
Best Backpacking Stainless Steel Cookware – Quick Chart
| Backpacking Stainless Steel Cookware | Weight | Number Of Pieces | Largest Pot Capacity | Compact |
| 1. Stansport 360 Stainless Steel Mess Kit | 1.2 lbs | 3 | 3 Cups | Yes |
| 2. BeGrit Camping Cookware Mess Kit | 1.7 lbs | 8 | 5.59″ x 2.59″ | Yes |
| 3. MSR Alpine Stowaway Pot | 14.1 oz | 1 | 1.6 L | Yes |
| 4. Stanley Adventure Camp Cook Set | 13.9 oz | 3 | 20 oz | Yes |
| 5. Coleman Stainless Steel Mess Kit | 1.5 lbs | 5 | 2 Quart | Yes |
| 6. Stansport Family Cook Set SS | 7.5 lbs | 7 | 4 Quart | Yes |
| 7. Stanley Base Camp Cook Set for 4 | 4.66 lbs | 21 | 3.7 Qt | Yes |
| 8. Snow Peak Kettle Cooker No.1 | 9.1 oz | 1 | 30 Ounces | Yes |
| 9. KingCamp 17/25pcs Stainless Steel Camping Cookware Mess Kit | 1.9 lbs | 17/25 | 500 mL | Yes |
| 10. Laken Stainless Steel Mess Kit Camping Cooking Set | 1.5 lbs | For 2 people | 57 Ounces | Yes |
How To Choose A Stainless Steel Cookware Set
Types Of Backpacking Stainless Steel Cookware
Tableware And Cookware Combo
A lot of stainless steel cookware for backpacking like frying pans, and pots can be used as plates and bowls as well. A lot of people do this to save backpack space and carry less equipment. They can have more space, and carry more weight if they use the cookware as a tableware also or use the tableware as a cookware.
Cookware
Stainless steel cookware for backpacking are very durable. They often nests other items to save space. Stainless steel cannot be folded so if the item does not provide a nested design, then it is not going to be compact. Stainless steel cookware are very easy to heat up and easy to clean.
Cooking Utensils
Stainless steel cooking utensils are very good since they will not melt when they make contact with boiling water or a hot metal. Cooking utensils made out of stainless steel are very popular and a lot of people bring them for backpacking.
Flatware
Stainless steel flatware are also very popular. Since this material is very rust resistant and corrosion resistant, they are great for the outdoors. These flatware lasts for a very long time and they look great as well.
Advantages Of Choosing Stainless Steel
Rust Resistant
Since cookware are exposed to water and heat, it is great that stainless steel is rust resistant. This allows the item to last for a very long time.
Scratch Resistant
Since stainless steel is scratch resistant which means that you can use steel wool to clean them. Unlike Teflon coated items that you have to be careful that you do not scratch them, stainless steel is pretty easy to clean.
Corrosion Resistant
Stainless steel is also corrosion resistant which means that the item can withstand the test of time. This makes stainless steel very durable and lasts for a very long time.
Durable
Stainless steel does not break if it falls off a table. It is very durable with very high impact resistance. You can expect cookware made out of this material to last for a very long time.
Non-Toxic
This material is also very natural and nontoxic. You don’t have to worry about chemicals or any other items that can make you sick if you use stainless steel cookware.
Does Not Get Squished
Putting plastic, silicone and other related items inside a backpack can sometimes destroy them. These materials are easily squished so if your backpack is full of gear, they may squish the gear that are made out of these materials. Stainless steel is very durable and does not get squished easily.
Backpacking Equipment That You Should Consider
Stove
You will obviously need a gas stove or wood stove or some sort of stove so that you can cook foods while in a backpacking trip. There are many different kinds of stoves to choose from. However, canister gas stoves seems to be the most popular.
Water Filter
You will often need a water filter if you are planning on cooking while in a backpacking trip. Water filters take out sediments, small rocks, dirt and soil from the water. The dirt, debris and rocks can injure your teeth and they can make the food taste bad as well. So a water filter is very useful to have when you are in a backpacking trip.
Tableware / Flatware
You will also want a tableware or flatware if you want to enjoy your foods. This is not a necessity though and you can use your cookware as a tableware if you want to carry a lighter backpack.
Other Factors We Should Think About
Weight
The weight of the cookware matters. If it does not, then I will just bring my cookware from my home. Unfortunately, we need to think about the weight of the cookware. Stainless steel cookware are often heavy. However, stainless steel is a very good material for a cookware. It does not cause cancer, no toxins, and they heat up fast. Try picking a thick but lightweight cookware. Thin cookware often feels flimsy and not durable.
Easy To Clean
The cookware has to be easy to clean since you will end up putting a lot of effort into maintaining the item if it is not easy to clean. Food can get stuck in the cookware also. It can be very hard to clean an item. We don’t really want to put too much effort into cleaning the item. The easier it is to be cleaned, the better it is for us.
Compact
The more compact the cookware, the better. We have additional items to put in our backpacks. We may end up running out of room if the cookware is not compact. So picking a cookware with nested design or choosing a cookware that is compact is ideal. You want to bring as many items as possible in the wilderness to give you as much comfort and security as possible.
Price
The price of the cookware should be considered also. There are just a lot of overpriced items out there that are not durable or good at all. It is important to consider the price. You have a lot of options and selections to choose from. You don’t really need to overpay for an item when there are lots of alternatives. So always consider the price since you may be able to buy two for the price of one if you pick another item.
Durability
Not all stainless steels are durable. There are certain types of stainless steel that are not durable. They fall apart easily. So check the reviews all the time to see how durable the item that you are thinking of buying. If the item is not durable, you may end up returning it and choosing something else. This can get annoying. It is better to get everything right the first time.
Best Backpacking Stainless Steel Cookware
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1. Stansport 360 Stainless Steel Mess Kit
Weight: 1.2 lbs
Number Of Pieces: 3
Largest Pot Capacity: 3-cup
Compact: Yes
Feature Summary: Compact design, rugged, high-quality stainless steel with copper bottoms, nests together for compact and easy transport, uniform heat distribution, easy to clean, BPA free and lead free
Short Review: This really is among the best backpacking stainless steel cookware that I am aware of. This is constructed out of rugged, high-quality stainless steel with copper bottoms for uniform heat distribution. Made by an amzing company, Stansport is a great company that makes affordable outdoor gear. They have been around for some time. This 3-piece set nests together and packs into its own included nylon mesh cover. One of the finest things is that this cookware has numerous positive consumer feedback which suggest that lots of people are pretty satisfied with their purchase of this.
2. BeGrit Camping Cookware Mess Kit
Weight: 1.7 lbs
Number Of Pieces: 8
Largest Pot Capacity: 5.59″ *2.59″
Compact: Yes
Feature Summary: Conducts heat quickly and is survival gear that is built to last, folding handle design, easy to take and save your space, internal surface material non-toxic and wear-resistant
Short Review: I like this cookware set for backpacking and it is very durable. This is constructed out of 410 stainless steel material, make it easy to clean and more durable. Great set for cooking heartedly, stir-frying, boiling or frying. This is very non-toxic and wear-resistant, the pots are fast in heat conduction. The cookware and tableware are not very big but they are good enough to cook a lot of dishes while in a backpacking trip. This is very lightweight also so if you are planning on hiking a lot of miles and want a tableware / cookware combo then this is a good choice. A very lightweight cookware set that is ideal for backpacking.
3. MSR Alpine Stowaway Pot
Weight: 14.1 oz
Number Of Pieces: 1
Largest Pot Capacity: 1.6L
Compact: Yes
Feature Summary: Item is very easy to clean, easy-lift handle flips over the fitted lid to lock it in place, great for storing gear or supplies when you’re not cooking, great for backpacking trips
Short Review: This outdoor cookware is outstanding and I really like it. This features a hinged, and easy-lift handle flips over the fitted lid to lock it in place. This is constructed out of classic stainless steel construction has durability time tested and trusted by mountaineers. This pot has the ability to be nested for easy and compact storage. A very lightweight pot that works well, heats up well and allows us to cook foods easily. This is a pretty good item for backpacking and this is very multipurpose as well. This is an incredible item with an exceptionally beautiful design and MSR is an amazing company that is very popular.
4. Stanley Adventure Camp Cook Set
Weight: 13.9 Ounces
Number Of Pieces: 3
Largest Pot Capacity: 20 oz
Compact: Yes
Feature Summary: Well-made item that is very durable, nesting system save space, durable vented lids-BPA free, boil water, good for coffee
Short Review: One thing I love in regards to this cookware set for the outdoors is that this is very useful. I absolutely really like this item and I am prepared to recommend this to a great deal of men and women. Stanley is a great company that makes amazing cookware for backpacking. This is a pot with two cups. It is really meant for making coffee in the morning while in a backpacking trip but the pot and cups work so well for other types of food that people just love this set. This saves a lot of space and very lightweight. This is amazing for the outdoors and performs very well. This set is extremely durable and there are many reasons why it is. The high quality materials and the design play an important part. This extraordinary set is one of the finest that can be obtained today and this is also extremely affordable.
5. Coleman Stainless Steel Mess Kit
Weight: 1.5 lbs
Number Of Pieces: 5
Largest Pot Capacity: 2 quart
Compact: Yes
Feature Summary: Great for saving space, microwave and dishwasher safe, pot lid turns into a frying pan with locking, interchangeable handle, mesh bag with drawstring for storage and dip-cleaning
Short Review: If you’re searching for an outstanding set of outdoor mess kits/cookware set then you will want to think about this. I have owned many backpacking stainless steel cookware in the past and never had one that felt outstanding or would hold up such as this one. I have been using this for quite a long time and I love it. The weight is very light. Cooking recipes in your backpacking trip is easier if you have a good item like this cookware set. If you would like something budget friendly and can cook foods while in the outdoors then you do not have to look any further. I know you will really like this as well due to the fact this is exactly as advertised.
| Check Out My Other Reviews – backpacking kettles – backpacking water containers – survival blankets – backpacking bowls – backpacking stoves |
6. Stansport Family Cook Set SS
Weight: 7.5 lbs
Number Of Pieces: 7
Largest Pot Capacity: 4 quart
Compact: Yes
Feature Summary: Very durable and made to last, compact and amazing design, item is very easy to clean
Short Review: This backpacking stainless steel cookware is among the best that you can get. This is constructed out of polished, chef quality 18/10 stainless steel and have a heavy-weight steel-clad bottoms. The entire set can be nested together and good enough to allow people to cook up their favorite mouthwatering outdoor meals. This item is one of the finest that is available right now which is why I am certain that you will be surprised at how amazing this is. Very portable because of the compact design which gives us more room in our backpacks. One of the best cookware set that you can get. Having a great item like this is great for the outdoors and this is very useful also.
7. Stanley Base Camp Cook Set for 4
Weight: 4.66 lbs
Number Of Pieces: 21
Largest Pot Capacity: 3.7 Qt
Compact: Yes
Feature Summary: Does not take much effort to clean, compact and very good, save space
Short Review: I just love this outdoor cookware because it is remarkable. This has a whole lot of positive consumer reviews. This is constructed out of 18/8 stainless steel this cooking set is strong, scratch proof and rustproof. This is fully loaded with 21 different pieces that can cook meals for small or large groups without taking up too much space. Good enough for four people and no maintenance other than washing is required, making this cookware easy-to-use and reliable for every trip. An amazing cookware set that allows people too cook in the outdoors and this is made out of high quality materials. This item is remarkable mainly because of the men and women that designed it are inventive.
8. Snow Peak Kettle Cooker No.1
Weight: 9.1 oz
Number Of Pieces: 1
Largest Pot Capacity: 30 oz
Compact: Yes
Feature Summary: Compact and saves space, id and pour spout along with a top and side handle for serving, multipurpose cookware that makes cooking a lot easier, high quality cookware
Short Review: I am fortunate enough to have been in a position to try this cooking pot for backpacking because this is remarkable. Snow Peak is an amazing company and they create high quality tableware and cookware for backpacking purposes. This camping kettle can also be used as a pot or a mug on your trips. This is very lightweight which allows us to carry more items. This has a lightweight design and foldable handles make this travel kettle ideal for a backpack. The stainless steel seems very high quality. This stainless steel cookware can be used in a lot of ways and in a lot of recipes.
9. KingCamp 17/25pcs Stainless Steel Camping Cookware Mess Kit
Weight: 1.9 lbs
Number Of Pieces: 17 / 25
Largest Pot Capacity: 500 mL
Compact: Yes
Feature Summary: Material made this very durable, high quality and durable materials, compact design allows for more items to be carried
Short Review: There are a great deal of men and women that love this cookware for the outdoors. The camping cookware pots and pans are made of stainless steel, resistant to wear, corrosion, quick heat transfer and has handles which are foldable and thermally isolated. This comes with BPA FREE Silicone bowls are foldable, compact to store, and the bowls have carabiner hooks. This is very durable, heats up well and cooks food well. This can cook foods while in the outdoors. I just love this cookware and tableware set. The weight of this is very light which makes this perfect for the outdoors.
10. Laken Stainless Steel Mess Kit Camping Cooking Set
Weight: 1.5 lbs
Number Of Pieces: For 2 people
Largest Pot Capacity: 57oz
Compact: Yes
Feature Summary: Durable and does not break easily, constructed well and very durable, materials used made this very high quality
Short Review: I am often astonished mainly because this stainless steel cookware set for the outdoors is really outstanding. This is a premium stainless steel mess kit designed for campfire cooking and they also offer non-stick aluminum cookware. The cups worked well with hot and cold liquids, has a nice handle that looks very outdoorsy. The amazing compact and space saving construction will give our backpacks more space for other items when we are going on a backpacking trip. Versatile stainless steel cookware set that makes the outdoors a lot more fun and provides lots of usefulness. This high quality set will allow you to cook and eat the foods while in the outdoors.
| Check Out My Other Reviews – survival blankets – backpacking winter jackets – camping bed – hydration bladder cleaning kit – disposable booties |
Final Thoughts
Some pieces are going to be small like the plates in Stanley Cookware Set. Some people do not understand why. They are small because they are meant for backpacking. Weight is a big factor so the manufacturers made the items smaller to reduce the weight. If you want cookware sets for car camping purposes then I recommend going to my Camping Cookware Set page. Although I did recommend some backpacking cookware sets in there also.
Stainless steel is better than Titanium since companies that make titanium cookware make them very weak or thin.