Car camping equipment is something you’ll need when you’re going to stay in a RV while backpacking. For those who like to make fancy meals while camping, a bigger set of cookware is recommended. Others may prefer to keep things easy and only need the basics to make coffee or eggs. Our car camping cookware sets are perfect for all types of camping cooks.
6 Best Car Camping Cookware
If you want to cook while car camping, you need tools that will last and can be used in different ways. Here are our top picks, as picked by the experts:
1. Stanley Base Camp Cook Set for 4
This cooking set has 21 pieces and rates highly in all of our tests. It’s also available for less than $100. Experts like it how well all the plates, bowls, and sporks fit together, and there are enough for four people.
If you want to make it easy to put back together when you’re done cooking, the open lid is marked with the right way to stack them. According to our tests, it was great that the pans were very easy to clean after use and that the egg didn’t stick to them much.
2. Sea to Summit X-Set 32
Most camp sets fit together in a big cylinder shape, but this one has a big pot, kettle, and pan that fit inside each other to make a thin disc. The walls of the pot and kettle are made of plastic that can expand, which lets them nest in this way. The plastic handles on the pan stayed cool to the touch the whole time we tested it, and they were easy to store when we were done. It was also very easy to clean up after cooking steaks and making eggs.
The bright colors of the plastic are another great thing about this standard set. Keep in mind that the company that made this camping cookware says it should only be used with a camping fire and not directly over an open flame, as that could damage the silicone.
3. SOTO Navigator Cook Set
We adore this set of cookware for the lone camper. You could easily fit this inside your backpack because it is so lightweight and small. We tested this anodized aluminum cookware and found that while it wasn’t as good at frying eggs as other sets, it was quite good at low-maintenance cooking jobs like boiling water or frying protein.
We found the lid’s several uses as a colander, fuel canister stabilizer, and chopping board to be practical and an effective use of both weight and space. It also comes with a metal component that may be used as a handle for the pots or as tongs.
4. Stanley Even-Heat Camp Pro Cookset
This Stanley cookware set is the only one you need if you’re looking for stainless steel camping cookware. A stainless steel stock pot, frying pan, and saucepan are included in the set, which is durable enough to withstand even the roughest camping excursion.
When we tested this set against other stainless steel sets, our experts discovered that it did well in the tests for cooking steak and frying eggs. It took more soaking and scrubbing to remove the egg particles that had crusted on the pan, so cleanup was not as simple as with some of the other sets, but this set is incredibly durable and efficient. In addition, it has trivets, a spoon, a spatula, and a folding cutting board for all of your kitchen necessities.
5. Lodge Blacklock Triple Seasoned Deep Skillet
This cast iron deep skillet is the best choice if you have room in your car or RV to store a cast iron pot. In our studies of boiling and searing, this pot did the best. It evenly distributes heat and lasts longer than any other. It can be harder to move and clean than smaller cookware sets because it weighs almost 11 pounds. However, you can’t beat the size, durability, and style of this sleek cast iron pot.
When you cook, the side handles and metal knobs get very hot, so always wear safety gear. It’s important to remember that cast iron pots need a little more care than nonstick or metal camping cookware. Bring a clean rag and maybe a little oil to help season the pot after each use. We also tested the 5.5-quart Dutch oven and got the same results when we browned a steak, fried an egg, and brought water to a boil. But we thought its slightly bigger size was a bit much for camping outside.
6. Toaks Titanium Pot and Cup Combo Set
This simple two-piece set is great for solo campers who may only need a pot and a cup to boil water and eat while on the go. When we tried the sets, this one was the lightest, which made it a great choice for backpackers. The mesh bag is nice because it keeps things organized and can fit a gas tank (sold separately).
As for cooking an egg or a steak, it’s not quite big enough, but it’s just the right size to boil water for a frozen meal and a coffee or tea. For backpackers who want an easy way to cook, this set is great. It’s sturdy and basic. To keep yourself safe, you should wear gloves because the metal handles got pretty hot when we used them.
Cookware for car camping is a must for every outdoor adventurer who wants to prepare delectable meals while enjoying the great outdoors. Whether you’re heading out for a romantic weekend away or a cross-country road trip, having the correct cookware can really make a difference in producing exceptional outdoor dining experiences.
This collection of car camping cookware includes everything you need to improve your cooking abilities while savoring the freedom of traveling, from lightweight and compact options to strong and adaptable designs. So what are you waiting for, pack your bag and start your adventurous journey!
