
In 2018, there was a 64% rise in the number of Americans going camping. That means there are millions of more people experiencing the great outdoors and finding out how awesome it is!
It also means that people are buying new camping cooking equipment and have no idea what they need.
Cooking outdoors can be as simple or as complex as you want it to be. If you are trekking, you will only need lightweight camping cooking equipment. But if you are car camping, you can create delicious multi-ingredient meals using a range of tools.
Here is a list of essential outdoor cooking equipment for camping for you to choose from no matter your camping style or cooking experience.
Stove, BBQ, or Outdoor Grill
The most important piece of camping cooking equipment is a stove or grill, and you will also need fuel that works with your stove. Some stoves need lighters but most can light themselves.
Depending on your needs and budget, this all-in-one cast iron grill is worth a look: barebonesliving.com/products/all-in-one-cast-iron-grill
If you are hiking, buy the smallest stove you can find that is safe to carry in your backpack.
Cookware, Cooking Utensils, and Pans
Next, you need to buy something to cook with on your stove, or else your oatmeal will go everywhere. Here is a list of some cooking utensils and cookware you should consider getting:
- Cast iron skillet or stainless steel pot
- Kettle
- Slotted spoon
- Spatula
- Grater
- Bottle opener
- Scissors
- Can opener
- Chopping board and knife
The best camping cooking equipment for you might not make sense to someone else. If you do not plan on preparing veggies yourself, for example, you can leave the chopping board at home.
Dinnerware and Silverware
You will also need dishes to eat your food from. This is a list of dinnerware to consider:
- Reusable plates and bowls
- Bamboo or reusable plastic silverware
- Metal cups
Think of the environment and bring dishes you can wash and reuse. If you want to pack light, you likely do not need both a plate and a bowl. And metal cups are great for both hot and cold beverages.
Collapsible Water Container
Speaking of drinking and washing, you will need water to boil food like rice, drink, and wash your dishes with. You should also bring washing-up liquid, sponges, and tea towels.
Miscellaneous Camp Cooking Tools
Those are the basic cooking while camping equipment you will likely want to invest in. But here are some other camping kitchen tools and items you should consider packing:
- Trash bags
- Food containers
- Picnic blanket
- Cooler
Never leave any waste behind when you camp. If you are camping in bear country, make sure you tie your food and food waste to a tall tree 20 feet away from your camp.
The Only Camping Cooking Equipment You Need
Choosing camping cooking equipment does not have to be difficult or complex. Consider what you use at home, how much space you have, and only buy camping cooking equipment that works for your needs.
Want more outdoors and general travel tips? Browse our website for tons of helpful guides full of useful tips and tricks!