Best brand of camping cookware

twilight · 07-18-2011, 02:19 PM

I am looking at new cookware since my old stuff got caught up in the river and went downstream. I don't even remember what brand it was? Anyone have some new cookware that it light and efficient?

WalkinTall · 07-18-2011, 02:55 PM

REI, MSR, Evernew, and GSI all make great cookware in titanium and aluminum. Any retailer will stock some/all, especially online stores.

wvbreamfisherman · 07-18-2011, 05:53 PM

Well- I prefer cast iron for frying, obviously that's not going to fly for backpacking. For general use I have a couple of cast-iron skillets, some enameled saucepans and pots, and a tfal non-stick skillet. I'm looking into some lighter stuff for two-person backpacking or light canoe tripping. I've looked at a lot of different nesting sets, but haven't come to a decision yet. Leaning toward titanium vs aluminum for strength and durability.

If anyone has some strong opinions pro/con I'd like to hear them.

WalkinTall · 07-18-2011, 07:42 PM

I'd go with aluminum unless you really count the ounces. The thermal properties of titanium and the extremely thin titanium walled cookware can cause a lot of burning (if you're not only boiling water) unless you're quite careful and attentive to your food. Aluminum isn't much (if at all) heavier and nearly identical in price, often cheaper actually.

If I had to pick one type of cookware that'd help most people, I'd say hard anodized aluminum in whatever manufacturer you prefer.

wvbreamfisherman · 07-18-2011, 08:01 PM

I'm not so worried about price, and I have no experience with cooking in titanium, so I'm glad to get an informed opinion. Thanks :-)

LovingNature · 07-19-2011, 06:09 AM

These all sound like great suggestions and glad I found this thread as we are now looking for some new ones too. Thanks

carmen · 07-19-2011, 06:59 AM

GSI I am familiar with and I know it can handle tons of the harsh fun that comes with outdoors. My sisters dog had a horrible habit on camping trips, if you left anything down that was not hot the pooch would come up, swipe it and run off into the woods. If it can handle a Pitty, it can handle most anything.

Newanderthal · 07-19-2011, 07:28 AM

Coleman Max Solo Cookset available from Walmart for $25. Super light, super compact, folding handles, 2 pots with english and metric measurements stamped into the sides, 2 lids that double as frying pans, carrying bag, and it's aluminum. Been using it for years and it replaced my more expensive gear from REI.

‪Coleman MAX Solo Cookset, great budget kit.‬&rlm; - YouTube

WalkinTall · 07-19-2011, 08:05 AM

My favorite set is the Terra Optima HE. Titanium is great for lightweight, but to achieve those weights the metal is thin (the strength of titanium allows it to be thin and durable as thicker aluminum). That and the poor heat distribution makes for a tougher cook.

The Terra set can be found between 35-50 dollars, online will have the best prices. Great set! My personal favorite.