Camping is all about being prepared. When you’re miles from civilization, you can’t just pop into the nearest convenience store. That’s why you need a best camping mess kit. All the essentials, like plates and utensils, as well as some extras, like a can opener and spice kit, are in the best camping mess kits.
Top 5 picks for the best camping mess kit in 2024, featuring durable materials, comprehensive designs, stability, convenience, and efficient storage for an optimal outdoor cooking experience.
Choosing a mess kit that fits your camping style is important because each camper has their own unique needs. No matter if you’re an ultralight backpacker or a car camper, there’s a mess kit out there for you.
Mess kits for camping are made of stainless steel are usually made from high-quality materials. You should have everything you need to cook and eat outdoors in your camping mess kit. For campers who need a durable and reliable mess kit, Coleman stainless steel is a great option. It comes with a pot, pan, plates, utensils, and a storage bag.
Our Top Picks | Best Camping Mess Kit
1. MSR Quick 2 Camping Cook Set | Best Overall
What Got Us Hooked
The MSR Quick 2 Camping Cook Set is one of the best camping mess kits. All the essentials are included, like plates and utensils, plus some extras, like a can opener and spice kit. It’s perfect for ultralight backpackers or car campers.
MSR Quick 2 Camping Cook Set is made of high-quality materials. As well as being lightweight, it’s easy to carry on your backpacking trip. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, lightweight, and versatile camping mess kit.
Things you should know
The MSR Quick 2 Camping Cook Set is the best camping mess kit on the market for a few reasons. First of all, it’s incredibly lightweight, so it’s perfect for ultralight backpackers.
In addition, it’s made from high-quality materials. Third, it comes with all the essentials, like plates and utensils, plus a can opener and spice kit. Last but not least, it’s very affordable, so it’s a great deal. The MSR Quick 2 Camping Cook Set is the perfect mess kit for ultralight backpackers or car campers.
Highlights of MSR Quick 2 Camping Cook Set:
- Material: High-quality lightweight materials for easy portability.
- Design: Comprehensive set including plates, utensils, can opener, and spice kit.
- Stability: Stable design suitable for camping use.
- Durability: Made from durable materials for long-lasting use.
- Convenience: Includes extras like a can opener and spice kit for added convenience.
- Storage: Compact design for easy storage and transportation.
Pros:
- Comprehensive set with plates, utensils, can opener, and spice kit, covering all cooking needs.
- Lightweight and easy to carry, ideal for backpackers and car campers.
- Made of high-quality materials for durability and reliability.
- Versatile usage suitable for various camping styles and situations.
- Affordable pricing compared to similar quality mess kits for camping.
Cons:
- Limited capacity compared to larger camping cook sets, may not be suitable for larger groups.
- Some users may find the included extras unnecessary for their camping needs.
2. GSI Pinnacle Camper | Premium-Quality
What Got Us Hooked
GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Camper Cooking Set is a great mess kit for camping trips. Anodized aluminum cookware with Teflon Radiance non-stick coating makes cleaning a breeze.
Dishes are also made from durable Infinity Clear Polypropylene, and each piece is color-coded. Also included is a storage bag, so you can keep everything together.
A good mess kit is essential for a successful camping trip, any seasoned camper will tell you. In addition to making cooking and cleaning easier, it saves space in your pack. If you’re looking for a top-quality mess kit, the GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Camper Cooking Set is a great choice.
Anodized aluminum pots and pans with Teflon coating are durable. Color-coded polypropylene dishes are made for each person. Also included is a spiral-turned base that grips stove/grill arms. You’ll love the GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Camper Cooking Set, whether you’re an experienced camper or just starting out.
Things you should know
GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Camper is the best camping mess kit because it’s non-stick, spiral-turned, durable, and color-coded. Anodized aluminum pots and pans are coated with Teflon Radiance non-stick technology so food doesn’t stick.
You don’t have to worry about the cookware tipping over because the spiral-turned base grips stove/grill arms securely. Plates, bowls, and mugs are made from durable Infinity Clear Polypropylene. With the set, each person can have their own color, so it’s easy to keep track of who has what.
Highlights of GSI Pinnacle Camper:
- Material: Anodized aluminum cookware with Teflon Radiance non-stick coating.
- Design: Color-coded polypropylene dishes for easy identification.
- Stability: Spiral-turned base grips stove/grill arms securely.
- Durability: Made from durable materials for long-lasting use.
- Convenience: Non-stick coating for easy cleaning.
- Storage: Includes a storage bag for convenient transportation.
Pros:
- Anodized aluminum cookware with Teflon coating ensures durability and easy cleaning.
- Color-coded polypropylene dishes for each person add convenience and organization.
- Spiral-turned base grips stove/grill arms securely, preventing tipping over.
- Comprehensive set with pots, pans, plates, bowls, and mugs covers all cooking and dining needs.
- Comes with a storage bag for easy transportation and organization.
Cons:
- Premium-quality comes with a higher price tag compared to other camping mess kits.
- Teflon coating may wear off over time with heavy usage, requiring replacement or maintenance.
3. Stanley Adventure Camp Cook Set | Best Durable Mess Kit
What Got Us Hooked
You can enjoy a delicious meal while camping with Stanley Adventure’s Even-Heat Camp Pro Cook Set.
There’s a 4 75qt stock pot, a 19qt saucepan, an 8 5″ frying pan, vented lids, a collapsible cutting board, spatula, spoon, two trivets, and a locking bungee in this 11-piece set.
Over campfires, stovetops, and grills, the pots and pans have a unique, multi-layer bottom design that ensures even heating.
Things you should know
Plus, it nests together for easy storage. Stanley Adventure Even-Heat Camp Pro Cook Set is the best camping mess kit for four reasons:
- Everything you need to make a complete meal is included.
- Cooking is perfect with these pots and pans because they have an even-heat design.
- High-quality materials make this set last.
- For easy storage in your camper or RV, it nests together.
Highlights of Stanley Adventure Camp Cook Set:
- Material: Multi-layer bottom design for even heating.
- Design: Comprehensive set with various pots, pans, and utensils.
- Stability: Designed for stability over different heating sources.
- Durability: Made from high-quality materials for long-lasting use.
- Convenience: Includes all necessary cooking utensils for a complete meal.
- Storage: Nests together for easy storage in campers or RVs.
Pros:
- Comprehensive 11-piece set includes everything needed for cooking and dining while camping.
- Even-heat design ensures efficient cooking over campfires, stovetops, or grills.
- Made of high-quality materials for durability and longevity.
- Nests together for compact storage, ideal for campers with limited space.
- Includes a variety of cookware sizes to accommodate different meal preparations.
Cons:
- Relatively bulky compared to minimalist camping cook sets, may not be suitable for backpackers.
- The locking bungee may wear out over time with repeated use, potentially compromising the set’s organization.
4. MSR Alpine 2-Pot Set | High-Quality Mess Kit
What Got Us Hooked
Are you going camping and want to know what the best camping mess kit is? Check out the MSR Alpine 2 Pot Set. With its durable stainless steel construction, this mess kit can stand up to even the most extreme conditions, making it perfect for frequent travelers and guides.
Whether you want a mess kit that can handle anything or just want a reliable option for your next camping trip, the MSR Alpine 2 Pot Set is the way to go.
Things you should know
If you’re out in the wilderness, a good mess kit can mean the difference between a delicious hot meal and going hungry. Made from stainless steel, the MSR Alpine 2 Pot Set can handle even the worst weather.
If you’re a frequent traveler or a guide, this mess kit is perfect for preparing meals on the go. With two pots, you can make a variety of dishes, or even boil water and store food in one pot.
Cook up a tasty meal with the included lid, which also doubles as a frying pan. The MSR Alpine 2 Pot Set is a great mess kit if you’re looking for something reliable and versatile.
Highlights of MSR Alpine 2-Pot Set:
- Material: Durable stainless steel construction for extreme conditions.
- Design: Includes two pots and a lid that doubles as a frying pan.
- Stability: Stable design suitable for camping and travel.
- Durability: Can withstand even the worst weather conditions.
- Convenience: Versatile two-pot design for meal preparation.
- Storage: Lightweight and compact design for easy transportation and storage.
Pros:
- Durable stainless steel construction suitable for frequent travelers and extreme conditions.
- Versatile usage with two pots for various cooking needs or boiling water.
- Lid doubles as a frying pan, adding versatility to meal preparation.
- Lightweight and compact design for easy transportation and storage.
- Reliable option for preparing meals on the go, favored by guides and frequent travelers.
Cons:
- Stainless steel construction may be heavier than alternative materials, affecting portability.
- Limited accessories compared to other camping mess kits, may require additional purchases for comprehensive cooking needs.
5. MalloMe Camping Cookware Mess Kit | Best for Backpacking Gear
What Got Us Hooked
A camping trip is a great way to get outside and enjoy nature, but you need to be prepared. You can’t just run to the store when you’re miles from civilization. That’s why you need a good camping mess kit.
With MalloMe’s Camping Cookware Mess Kit, you’ll have everything you need to cook and eat while camping, including pots, pans, bowls, utensils, and a portable stove.
You can take the set on even the toughest hikes since it’s lightweight and easy to pack. Whether you’re an experienced camper or just getting started, MalloMe’s Camping Cookware Mess Kit is perfect for you.
Things you should know
The MalloMe Camping Cookware Mess Kit is the best mess kit for backpacking. It comes with a camp stove and backpacking stove, so it’s perfect for camping. You can also cook your meals while camping with the set’s pot and pan.
Aluminum makes the pot and pan tough and durable. They’re also light, so you can carry them while hiking. You also get a spoon and a fork, so you can eat while camping. It’s compact and easy to carry, so you can take it anywhere.
Highlights of MalloMe Camping Cookware Mess Kit:
- Material: Lightweight and durable aluminum construction.
- Design: Includes pots, pans, bowls, utensils, and a portable stove.
- Stability: Stable design suitable for backpacking and camping trips.
- Durability: Made from tough and durable aluminum material.
- Convenience: Includes a spoon and fork for easy eating while camping.
- Storage: Compact and easy to carry for convenient transportation.
Pros:
- Comprehensive set with pots, pans, bowls, utensils, and a portable stove covers all cooking needs.
- Lightweight and compact design ideal for backpackers and tough hikes.
- Made of durable aluminum for toughness and longevity.
- Comes with a spoon and fork for added convenience during meals.
- Compact and easy to carry, suitable for camping trips of any duration.
Cons:
- Limited cooking capacity compared to larger camping cook sets, may not be suitable for larger groups.
- Some users may prefer non-aluminum options due to personal preferences or concerns.
Best Camping Mess Kit FAQs
1. What is the MalloMe Camping Cookware Mess Kit made of?
The MalloMe Camping Cookware Mess Kit has high quality aluminum that is both lightweight and durable. The set includes a pot, pan, bowl, mug, and utensils, all of which nest together for easy storage.
2. Is the MalloMe Camping Cookware Mess Kit safe to use?
Yes, the aluminum used in the cookware is food grade and does not contain any harmful toxins. However, it is important to note that aluminum can react with acidic foods, so it is best to avoid cooking these types of foods in the cookware. Overall, the MalloMe Camping Cookware Mess Kit is a great option for those looking for a lightweight and durable camping cookware set. With proper care, it will last for many years of outdoor adventures.
3. What is MSR Alpine 2 Pot Set?
The MSR Alpine 2 Pot Set is a cookware set for backpacking and camping trips. It includes pots, a lid, and a pitcher, all made from lightweight aluminum. The pots come with a non-stick finish and have folding handles for easy packing. The set also comes with a mesh storage bag.
Conclusion
Choose a camping mess kit that’s made of high-quality materials and includes everything you need to cook and eat outdoors. You can enjoy your next camping trip with the right mess kit.
Enjoy your next camping trip with the right camping mess kit. With these tips, you’ll be able to choose a mess kit that’ll make outdoor dining much easier. What’s your favorite camping mess kit? Let us know in the comments!