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The Best Camping Cookware of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Take your backcountry meals to the next level with a good set of cookware

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Let’s talk pots and plans, that is, camping cookware. Less praised than other pieces of camping gear, cookware is essential for any overnight trip into the woods. And with the exception of cold soakers, the quality of your pots and pans can make or break your expedition experience. Regardless of your approach to backcountry food—the sufferfest, the moveable feast, and everything in between—calories are some of the most important things you pack. Both physically and psychologically.

On every one of my trips, it doesn’t take long for trail talk to devolve into favorite meals. No one is going to be able to get you a Culver’s burger and battered cheese curds, but the right pots and pans paired with the right menu choice can keep that conversation wistful instead of mutinous. And at the end of the day, there’s nothing more celebratory than gathering around a fire with a good meal, conversation, and the opportunity to do it again in the morning. The best camping cookware will make your trip that much more enjoyable for all involved.

Best Overall: Fry-Bake Alpine Set

• Best Titanium: Toaks Titanium 750ml Pot with Handle
• Best for Backpacking: Primus Essential Trails Kit
• Best Cast Iron: Lodge Cast Iron Combo Cooker
• Best Heirloom Quality: Yeti 12” Cast Iron Skillet Set
• Best Foldable: Sea to Summit X-Set 32
• Best on a Budget: GSI Bugaboo Mess Kit

How We Picked the Best Camping Cookware

I care too much about food. In fact, I’ve been known to shoo others away from the stove and lay claim to all the cooking at camp. But I do let people help with the dishes. As the camp cook, I’m constantly cycling through a round of recipes and cookware in an attempt to find the best backcountry setup on the river or the trail. You’ll find me studiously testing pans, stoves, and recipes in the backyard before a trip deciding whether stainless steel, aluminum, cast iron, or titanium is the right choice for this next adventure. 

I’ve used these cookware sets to saute freshly caught salmon on remote Alaskan islands, cook up some mean breakfast tacos on the shores of Utah’s Green River, keep sand out of our oatmeal in Flagstaff’s high alpine desert, and rehydrate food in the pine forest of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Along the way, I’ve stumbled across some of the best (and worst) options out there. I’ve had some successes and plenty of wrong pot-for-the-job scenarios along the way, but these are the cook sets that stood out through my adventures.

Best Camping Cookware: Reviews & Recommendations

• Materials: Aluminum w/ anodized hard coat
• Diameter: 8 inches
• Depth: 1 1/2 inches
• Weight: Under 7 ounces and holds up to 3 cups (0.7 liters) when full
• Diameter: 8 inches at the rim, 6 7/8 inches at the bottom
• Depth: 2 1/4 inches
• Weight: Under 8 ounces and holds 6 cups (1.4 liters) when full
• Materials: Aluminum
• Weight: Less than 5 oz.
• Can be used with any cooking setup: fire, camp stove, embers
• Easy to clean using rivers, stones, or sand
• Lightweight and durable
• Imperfect nesting capability

For our best overall category, a tricky metric of versatility and value was necessary. A set needs to be practical, durable, and capable—something that can endure whitewater and backpacking expeditions, but also useful for car camping. It needs to be able to cook over gas or wood, capable of boiling water for hot drinks, take on a hearty breakfast scramble, sear fresh trout filet, and top it off with a backcountry peach cobbler.

Pam Banks and her father solved this issue in 1979 when they produced the first round of Fry Bakes. The name is self-explanatory—these pots allow you to do everything from frying to baking. Built from aluminum with an anodized hard coat cooking surface, it’s essentially a backcountry dutch oven with the lightness of aluminum, the durability of cast iron, and the cooking range of non-stick. Plus, they’re a domestic production: every Fry Bake pan is made in New Hampshire, sent to Massachusetts for the hard anodized coating, and then brought back to New Hampshire, where Pam herself picks them up from the factory. 

You can use metal utensils without scratching the surface, clean with pebbles or river sand, build a small twiggy fire on the lid for even baking, cook in your campfire coals, or on your camping stove. In short, this pan can take anything you throw on it. I’ve used mine to bake backcountry bread on an MSR Whisperlite, cook freshly caught salmon over a driftwood fire, and reduce wild blueberries into a syrupy jam. It produces culinary excellence every time. The Full Alpine set comes with a pan and a deeper pot, but if you need the whole hog, you can get the massive Expedition size, capable of feeding four or more.

• Materials: Titanium 
• Weight: Pot only: 3.0 oz (86g), Pot with lid: 3.6 oz (103g)
• Capacity: 750ml, 760ml if measured to the top of pot
• Dimensions: Internal: 3 3/4″ (94mm) (Diameter) X 4 3/8″ (110mm) (H)
• External: 102mm (Diameter) X 112mm (H) (measure with handles folded and lid on)
• Extremely lightweight
• Budget-friendly 
• The handle offers minimal heat protection
• Some discoloration can occur over high heat

Toaks, a California brand with utilitarian leanings and steeply discounted prices, is the workman’s take on titanium cook sets. I’ve had a set of their single-walled mugs for years that have traveled around the world with me, invaluable not just for their lightness but also for their practicality. A single wall mug can take direct heat, thus taking the place of a pot on a camp stove when you have to prioritize moving fast and light. 

On a recent float trip down the Green River in Utah, a campmate brought along his Toaks pot as a personal mug and group backup. We were rafting, so we had plenty of space, but in the early mornings, I avoided the kettle and borrowed his Toaks pot to make my own round of coffee before the others woke up. I fell in love, not just with floating the Green and drinking Modelos sprinkled with Tajin, but with the Toaks simplicity.

The 750 ml pot is my pick. While Toaks makes bigger pots (and pans as well), the benefit of Titanium is in its barebones minimalism. When you’re on a trip where space and weight don’t matter, there are a myriad of better options. But when speed and weight are the priority, a no-frills to-the-point pot is needed, and I’ll take this Toaks pot every time.

• Best Backpacking Set: Primus Essential Trails Kit

• Materials: Anodized aluminum, 1.0L fry pan/pot lid works as a skillet or lid
• Weight: 9.5 ounces
• Dimensions: 4.6 x 5.7 inches
• Spiral pattern on base for heat transfer and additional grip on stove pot supports
• Two adjustable and removable handles allow you to cook or transport pots with ease
• Weight: 4.9 ounces
• Dimensions: 3.7 x 3.5 inches
• Lightweight plastic lid with silicone handles with integrated strainer
• Lightweight and highlight packable 
• Primus stove and gas nest inside pot
• The ceramic frying pan is small
• Smaller boil capacity
• Handles have no heat protection

I have tried various pots on backpacking trips, and haven’t been happy until I landed on the Primus Essential Trail Kitchen. Built from anodized aluminum, the 0.5 L pot is sleek and durable, swapping a bulky heat exchanger for a spiral pattern on the pot. The lid doubles as a small frying pan, big enough to fry an egg. There isn’t a lot of surface area there, but it increases the versatility of the pot beyond simple rehydration duties.

Best of all, Primus designed this as a nesting system capable of storing their Trail Essentials stove and a 230g gas canister within. This kit includes a combo of their high-performing essential trail stove and trail pot for a pretty screaming deal of $65. They also offer the pot as a standalone or in a larger 1 L size.

It’s worth noting, that while this set offers more versatility than its titanium competitors, it has fewer bells and whistles than other backpacking sets. The pot handles, while cleverly designed to fasten the whole system in place when not in use, don’t insulate from the heat of the stove. And the capacity is small—it will help feed one to two people at most without several rounds to the stove. But that’s a metaphor for backpacking itself: a sacrifice of some small comforts for greater mobility. And I’m never hiking without a buff or bandanna, which serves as my pot holder.

• Type: 3.2 qt. Dutch oven; lid/frypan
• Dimensions: 16.5 x 10.38 x 4.63 inches
• Materials: Cast iron
• Weight: 12.85 lbs; top 6.46 lbs, deep skillet 6.39 lbs
• Excellent cost-to-functionality ratio
• Allows for cooking on the stove or in a fire
• Properly taken care of, it’ll last a lifetime
• Heavy (it is cast iron, after all)
• Can’t use dutch oven with the lid and the skillet simultaneously

For campers, cast iron’s value is in its practical utility. It is nearly indestructible and excels over the open flames of both camp stoves and firepits—no iron grate needed. It won’t work for every trip—cast irons are too heavy to schlep in your pack and constant water exposure may lead to rust—but perfect for adventures where you aren’t worried about pack weight.

The folks at Lodge have made cast iron pans for over 140 years, and they aren’t showing signs of slowing down. When I worked at Flagstaff Grand Canyon outfitters, we sent dozens of dutch ovens down the river with private boaters floating the Colorado for two-to-six weeks. Durable, high performing, and has the bonus of working well in your home kitchen too. Lodge’s range is stunning, and the options can be overwhelming. We recommend this Lodge Cast Iron Cooker Combo to get you started with a dutch oven and skillet combo.

• Width: 13″
• Length: 18″
• Height: 1.875″
• Diameter: 12″
• Cooking Surface: 10″
• Weight: 6.9 lbs
• Thinner construction allows for more rapid heat transfer
• Hand forged for cooking over open fires
• Spouts on each side for easier pouring
• For a 12” cast iron pan, it’s surprisingly light
• Still heavier than aluminum, steel, and especially titanium
• No lid option

Yeti worked with Butter Pan Industries to create hand-cast pans that result in a smoother thinner skillet that balances heat beautifully. It’s designed for cooking over an open fire so you can channel your inner Francis Mallaman, but it’ll work equally well on a burner. It comes pre-seasoned and is shipped with a scraper tool and metal ring-rag, which looks like a comically small piece of chainmail but is nonetheless effective for smaller stains.

While this pan functions extraordinarily well in the backcountry, it is also a great choice for the backyard. I use mine on my deck, paired with a cooktop adapter to my Solo stove to sear steaks and make breakfast a little more adventurous. This is a pan you can pass down to your kids, grandkids, and maybe even great-grandkids. And you’ll want to. At a hefty $400 price tag, it isn’t for everyone, but those who make the investment will be pleased.

• Materials: Silicone walls and aluminum base
• Weight: 29-ounce set
• Dimensions: 2.8L X-Pot, 1.3L X-Kettle & 8″ X-Pan
• Packs extraordinarily well
• Lightweight 
• Separate pot and kettle combo allows you to make food/create hot drinks at the same time
• Very specific usage and care guidelines 
• Lack of durability

Foldable pots and pans may seem like a gimmick or something from a bad 80’s sci-fi novel, but they’re a backcountry tech innovation that saves an incredible amount of space. That space savings comes with a tradeoff: specific rules of engagement around water levels, heat capacity, and the lack of campfire cooking. But for trips where saving space is your ultimate need, foldable cookware is an elegant origami solution.

The designers at Sea to Summit perfected this genre of cookware with their X-32 set. Consisting of three pieces: a 2.8 L pot, a 1.3 L kettle, and an 8-inch aluminum frying pan, the whole set collapses to the size of a frisbee and weighs in at just 27.2 ounces. While the sides are built from food-grade and heat-resistant silicone, the bases are made from aluminum, allowing the pots to take the direct heat of the stove. There are caveats, though—you have to be careful not to let the flames lap up over the side of the aluminum bottom, keep a minimum amount of water in the pots to protect the silicon, and wait at least 30 seconds after the stove is turned off to pick up your cookware. If it seems like a lot to remember, fear not; Sea to Summit has stamped instructions on the bottom of the pot and on the lids to ensure you won’t forget. And speaking of lids, the X pot has a built-in strainer for draining pasta with an integrated pot holder to protect your hands. Not too shabby.

• Materials: Nonstick-coated aluminum/polypropylene
• Components: 1 qt. pot; 7.5 in. frypan/lid; 6 in. bowl; 12 fl. oz. cup; pot gripper; mesh bag
• Weight: 1 lb. 0.7 oz.
• Nesting Design
• The non-stick coating makes clean-up easy
• Includes bowl, mug, and pot holder
• Pot has a lower capacity than others on this list
• Heavy for an aluminum cook set

Budget camping cookware is a tough needle to thread: pinch too many pennies, and you may end up eating raw pasta on the trail (works for ramen, but not rotini). Enter GSI’s Bugaboo Mess Kit, which is affordable, not cheap—an important distinction. At just under $38 and built from aluminum with a non-stick coating, the set contains a 1-quart pot; a 7.5-inch frypan that doubles as a lid, a 6-inch bowl, a 12-ounce mug, a pot gripper, and a mesh bag to store it all in. It doesn’t reinvent the wheel, but at this price point, that’s not what you’re looking for. It cooks and packs well, and won’t let you down. What more can you ask for?

What to Consider Before Buying Camping Cookware

The type of camping you do is the biggest factor when determining the right set of cookware for your adventure. Once you figure out your pursuit, then you can start to think about these considerations:

Every pot has its correct application. A dutch oven won’t work for an ultralight rim-to-rim-to-rim backpacking trip in the Grand Canyon, and a single-walled titanium mug will be useless to cook pancakes for a lazy morning of car camping. Carefully consider the priorities and limitations of your trip. Do you need to conserve packing space in your backpack? A foldable pot might be right for you. Do you have multiple dry boxes for a casual float? It might be time to double up on the Cast Iron. Let your activity, and the needs and limitations, dictate what cook set you reach for.

This one might seem obvious, but it’s worth noting. Bigger groups will require a bigger capacity and different systems. Solo outings can get away with a minimalist approach. There are workarounds—large groups can split into several smaller cook groups—but everything requires planning ahead. You don’t want to be caught making pasta for 12 in a pot that boils half a liter of water at a time.

Some people like the convenience of freeze-dried food in the backcountry. Some prefer to pack a veritable chef’s table of ingredients. The naturalistic inclined might want to forage along the way. Every trip necessitates a meal plan, and each meal plan comes with its own cooking needs. Consider whether your menu requires any sauteing or non-stick cook options. Do you just need to boil water? How flexible and trusting do you want to be with the self-appointed mushroom expert of the group? All of these factors will help determine what your final choice is.

Q: What size cookware is best for backpacking?

While this will depend on your group size and meal choices, generally, pots in the 0.5L-1 L capacity and pans 8 inches or less are ideal for backpacking trips. Remember that weight and space are the limiting factors when loading a backpack. For groups larger than four, it’s smart to divide into smaller cook groups which splits the packing burden and builds in some redundancy in case of a stove or pot disaster.

Q: How much does camping cookware cost?

Like everything, there’s a wide range of available costs. On this list, you’ll find everything from a titanium pot for $35 to a cast iron skillet for $400. But in general, a camping cookware set will run anywhere from $40 to $120 depending on materials, size, and number of included pieces.

Q: Are camp stoves safe?

Gone are the days of leaky, gas-pumped contraptions that require an engineering degree to get started. These days, camp stoves have more in common with your backyard grill than complicated contraptions. Caution is always advised when using combustible gas and open flame, but if you’re comfortable starting your Weber, then you’ll be comfortable firing up an isobutane gas canister.

Best Camping Cookware: Final Thoughts

• Best Overall: Fry Bake Alpine Set

While the perfect set of camp cookware will vary widely by activity and menu choice, it’s hard to think of a situation where the Banks Fry-Bake will let you down. Lightweight, versatile, and durable enough to take on years of repeated use in rugged NOLS courses, buying a Fry-Bake is a one-time investment in a lifetime of camping culinary excellence.

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For more than 125 years, Field & Stream has been providing readers with honest and authentic coverage of outdoor gear. Our writers and editors eat, sleep, and breathe the outdoors, and that passion comes through in our product reviews. You can count on F&S to keep you up to date on the best new gear. And when we write about a product—whether it’s a bass lure or a backpack—we cover the good and the bad, so you know exactly what to expect before you decide to make a purchase.

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Best Backpacking Cookware of 2024

One of life’s greatest enjoyments is to kick back after a hard day on the trail and fire up some delicious food. Considered to be one of the most essential pieces of gear to own, your investment in having one of the best backpacking cookware sets will go a long way in providing creature comforts on the rugged trail.

There aren’t too many details that you’ll have to sweat over, making this purchase a relatively straightforward one. But with literally hundreds of options to choose from, we’ve narrowed it down to the top 10 best backpacking cookware sets to make your choice as simple as possible.

For more of our top backpacking gear recommendations, check out the Best Backpacking Stoves . 

Quick Answer - The Best Backpacking Cookware

• GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Camper View at REI
• MSR Ceramic 2-Pot Set View at Backcountry
• TOAKS Titanium 750ml View at REI
• Primus PrimeTech 2.3 L Pot System View at Backcountry
• Stanley Adventure Base Camp Set View at REI
• MSR Quick 2 System View at REI
• Snow Peak Titanium Multi Compact View at REI
• Snow Peak Titanium Mini Solo View at REI
• GSI Outdoors Halulite Microdualist II View at REI
• Toaks Titanium 1600ml Pot With Pan View at REI

Comparison Table - Best Backpacking Cookware

Reviews - the best cookware for backpacking, gsi outdoors pinnacle camper.

• Best Use : Family/Group Backpacking
• Weight : 3 lbs. 10 oz.
• Cookware Material : Aluminum
• Nonstick Surface : Yes
• Pot Gripper Attaches Externally To Avoid Internal Scratches
• Nonstick Surface Is Scratch Resistant And Heats Food Evenly
• Color Coded Dinnerware Helps Each Person Keep Track Of What’s Theirs

BEST COOKSET OVERALL

Looking for a fully loaded cookset that has pots, pans, plates, and cups galore? Then the GSI Pinnacle Camper Cookset is your perfect match for a truly cushy camping experience. 

This cookset features 2 pots (3 Liters & 2 Liters) each with their own lid that has a built-in strainer for pasta, a frying pan, 4 plates, 4 bowls, 4 insulated mugs with sippable lids, and an external pot gripper that won’t scratch the interior of your pots. The dinnerware is color coded so that no one mixes up whose is whose.  The set also features a welded sink basin that doubles as a carry bag.

MSR Ceramic 2-Pot Set

• Best Use : Budget Backpacking
• Weight : 1 lb
• Two lightweight pots for easy cooking while backpacking
• Lightweight aluminum construction
• Strainer lid and handle accommodate differently sized pots

BEST FOR: BACKPACKERS ON A BUDGET

MSR designed this 2-pot system from environmentally AND health-friendly ceramic materials. The system includes two pots and a pair of plier-like potholders designed to nest together and take up the least amount of space possible. The non-stick ceramic coating is also scratch resistant, which is a nice feature if you enjoy using metal utensils.

What we like most about this cookware system is that it can be used for simply boiling water and also serves to cook meals more evenly than most other options on the market. You’d be hard pressed to burn even the stickiest of foods.

TOAKS Titanium 750ml

• Best Use : Ultralight Backpacking
• Weight : 3.9 oz
• Cookware Material : Titanium
• Nonstick Surface : No
• Corrosion resistant, pure titanium construction
• Ounce and millimeter marks enable precise measurements
• Lid with lockable grip & vent holes
• Includes mesh storage sack

BEST FOR: ULTRALIGHT BACKPACKING

From solo overnight missions to extended multi-day adventures, this pot does it all. At 750mL, there’s plenty of space for boiling water — no matter what you plan on rehydrating. This extremely durable pot is a great choice for an ultralight pot that still gets the job done. It features folding handles and a lid with a wire tab that makes it easy to check on your food or water. The seal formed by the tight-fitting lid also creates for unmatched heat retention.

What we love most about this pot — besides its feather light weight — is that it’s compact enough for stashing into your backpack’s side pocket AND big enough that you can stash a 4oz fuel canister inside.

Primus PrimeTech 2.3 L Pot System

• Best Use : Backcountry chefs
• Weight : 1.6 lbs
• Cookware Material : Aluminum, ceramic
• Quick cooking and low fuel demand
• Self-locking ceramic tongs
• Top lid turns into strainer

BEST FOR: BACKCOUNTRY CHEFS

If you’re looking for something simple, hearty, and built to last, this 2.3L Pot System is sure to fit the bill. This all in one system not only allows you to whip a delicious meal, but also save loads of fuel thanks to its highly efficient design. The set includes two pots, a lid, a handle, non-stick coating, and heat exchanger rings. The accessory pot nestles perfectly inside the main pot — and everything fits nicely in the included insulated carry bag.

What I covet most about this cookware set is just how efficient it really is — in part due to the inclusion of heat exchanger rings. The main pot’s thick aluminum bottom and Teflon coating makes cooking scrambled eggs — which notoriously tend to overcook on most cookware sets I’ve tested — a delicious-tasting backcountry possibility.

Stanley Adventure Base Camp Set

• Best Use : Basecamp Cooking
• Weight : 5 lbs. 9.6 oz.
• Cookware Material : Stainless Steel
• Stainless steel pot and frying pan
• Four 6-inch plates & four bowls
• Four sporks, Spatula, Serving spoon
• Cutting board
• Drying rack

BEST FOR: BASECAMP COOKING

If you’re looking for a full-kitchen experience in a camp-friendly package, look no further. The Stanley Adventure Base Camp cookware set includes a stainless steel pot and frying pan, four 6-inch plates, four bowls, four sporks, a cutting board, spatula, serving spoon, and drying rack. It’s essentially designed to match the performance and design of your kitchen at home.

What we like most about this cookware set is the intuitive vented lid design and how affordable it is for such a comprehensive kit.

MSR Quick 2 System

• Best Use : Backpacking
• Weight : 1 lbs. 12 oz.
• Cookware Material : Hard-Anodized Aluminum
• Color Coded Plates/Mugs Prevent Mixups
• Entire Set Nests Within 2.5L Pot For Efficient Packing
• Pieces Can Be Left At Home To Create An Even Lighter Set

BEST FOR: COMPACT COOKING FOR 2

Perfect for any backpacking duo, the MSR Quick 2 System is a light and versatile cookset that covers all your bases and can be stripped down to the essentials for an even lighter load. 

Boasting two of (almost) everything for a complete meal set for each backpacker, this cookset features 2 insulated mugs with lids, 2 “DeepDish” plates (for either soup or solid food – it’s essentially a bowl-plate), and 2 pots (1.5 Liter & 2.5 Liter). It also sports a lid with a built-in strainer and a detachable pot lifter that won’t scratch the interior. 

This set can also be stripped down for a single backpacker or if both you and your partner already have water bottles, you can remove the cups to create room inside the pot to store your stove!

Snow Peak Titanium Multi Compact

• Weight : 11.6 oz.
• Extremely Lightweight And Durable
• Handles Pack Flat For Easy Storage
• Includes A Lightweight Nylon Mesh Storage Bag

BEST FOR: HIGH-QUALITY, MINIMAL DESIGN FOR SMALL GROUPS

Small backpacking groups of 2-3 people looking to invest in the most durable and longest lasting cookware set ought to consider the Snow Peak Titanium Multi Compact cookset. Sporting the lightest, most durable, and longest lasting material (Titanium), you’ll get the absolute best bang for your buck. 

The set features 2 pots (34 oz. & 26 oz.), a 17 oz. frying pan, and a 12 oz. saucepan, the latter two which can double as lids for the pots. The handles on each pot and pan fold down for easy storage and all four pieces nest within each other for the most efficient use of space and can also store a 100/110g fuel canister inside (sold seperately).

Snow Peak Titanium Mini Solo

• Weight : 6.38 oz.
• 100g Fuel Canisters Can Fit Inside The 30 oz. Pot
• Pot Nests Snuggly Inside The Cup For Compact Storage
• Rounded Bottom Edges Are Easy To Clean And Improve Heating Efficiency

BEST FOR: ULTRALIGHT SOLO BACKPACKERS

The lightest of the lightest available cooksets, the Snow Peak Titanium Mini Solo cookset is streamlined and efficient for your most rugged outdoor adventures. 

Made from Titanium, the lightest and most durable material for a cookset, the Mini Solo resists corrosion and heats food evenly. It’s also extremely efficient meaning you’ll use less fuel for each cook. The taller 30 oz pot fits snugly inside the shorter 18.3 oz. cup thanks to a slight difference in circumference size, allowing you to nest the two pieces for the ultimate packdown. 

The lid for the pot also has a silicone tab for burn-free removal! No need to cover your hand first.

GSI Outdoors Halulite Microdualist II

• Weight : 1 lbs. 7 oz.
• Hard-Anodized Aluminum Heats Food Evenly
• Welded Stuff Sack Protects Cookware And Doubles As Wash Basin
• Pot Lid Is Crushproof And Heat Resistant, Also Includes Built-In Strainer

BEST FOR: TWO-PERSON OUTINGS

Having a complete cookset for two doesn’t have to be bulky, heavy and expensive. The GSI Outdoors Halulite Microdualist II shatters all of those conventions in favor of a streamlined, lightweight, affordable cookset that sports all the features of a fully-loaded set. 

Nesting all of its pieces within a 1.4L pot, this cookset features two 14 oz. bowls, two 14 oz. mugs with sippable lids, two folding foons (fork-spoons), and a lid for your pot with a built-in strainer. 

The folding foons collapse to just 3.7” inches from it’s fully extended 6.1” inch length, making it small enough to fit inside the nesting system.

Toaks Titanium 1600ml Pot With Pan

• Weight : 8.2 oz.
• Includes A Mesh Storage Sack
• No Metallic Aftertaste With Titanium
• Ounce And Liter Marks Allow For Precise Measurement

BEST FOR: EXPANDING YOUR EXISTING MINIMAL SET

If you have a minimalist solo set or an ultralight cookware set for two, then the TOAKS Titanium 1600ml Pot with Pan is a perfect addition to expand your set. Able to hold 1.6 Liters (1600ml), this sizeable pot is still super lightweight and has a lid that doubles as a fry pan (or vise versa). 

The entire set weighs just 8.2 oz., making this expansion set the best ultralight add-on. It’s also large enough to store a 220g fuel canister and small stove inside itself. The handles even feature a nifty fold-down mechanism for compact storage.

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING BACKPACKING COOKSETS

There are a wide variety of materials that cooksets are offered in. Below, we detail the pros and cons of each and rate them for backpacking and car camping. 

• Backpacking: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭒
• Car Camping: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭒

Lightweight and affordable, aluminum is a fantastic material for a cookset. Food is cooked evenly and efficiently on aluminum cookware since it’s such a great conductor of heat. While it’s pretty durable, over time it will eventually break down and need replacing, especially if you cook highly acidic foods such as tomato sauce. Aluminum is also softer than other metals, meaning it will get banged up, taking both scratches and dents with heavy use. 

Hard-Anodized Aluminum  

• Backpacking: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
• Car Camping: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑

A more durable, albeit pricer, option to aluminum is hard-anodized aluminum. It provides all the benefits of standard aluminum without any of the downsides – just cook away! 

Stainless Steel

• Backpacking: ⭑⭒⭒⭒⭒
• Car Camping: ⭑⭑⭒⭒⭒

While it is an option, stainless steel offers little benefit to backpackers and campers. Although it’s way more durable than aluminum, it’s also much more expensive yet doesn’t heat food as evenly. It’s also really heavy which can be quite the drawback when you’re trying to save weight. For the high price tag, you’re better off investing in titanium or hard-anodized aluminum. 

If you’re not constrained by a budget, this is your absolute best option! Titanium is the lightest material possible which makes it ideal for backpackers looking to shave weight. While it is more expensive than some other options, it’s extremely efficient which translates into fuel cost savings. Last but not least, titanium is highly corrosion-resistant meaning it will outlast and outperform any other cookset material. 

Non-Stick Coating

• Backpacking: ⭑⭑⭒⭒⭒
• Car Camping: ⭑⭑⭑⭒⭒

Non-stick coatings are really easy to clean, making your post-meal chores a breeze. However, the coating is much less durable than aluminum or titanium. It’s important to use only plastic utensils while cooking with non-stick or you will likely scratch and degrade the non-stick surface. 

• Backpacking: ⭒⭒⭒⭒⭒

Best for car camping, cast iron skillets hold seasoning really well and make some amazingly delicious campfire dinners. They’re crazy durable but also extremely heavy, which makes them a no-go for backpacking. 

ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS

Number of pots/pans.

When choosing a cookware set , it’s best to consider how many people you usually backpack or camp with. A rough estimate is 1 pot for every 1 to 2 people in your group, but that largely depends on what you’re cooking. 

For dehydrated meals that simply need boiled water to be added, or can-ready meals that need warming like chili, then 1 pot per 2 backpackers will be enough. But if you’re cooking a more standard meal from scratch with multiple ingredients, then each backpacker will likely need a dedicated pot/pan. 

The size of your chosen pots and pans also plays a critical role in determining the best cookware set. Larger pots are more efficient for space and resources since you won’t need as many burners as you would with multiple smaller pots. Ideally, the largest pot in your set should hold 1 pint per person in your group. So if you’re a hiking group of 4 people, then you’ll need a pot than can hold at least 4 pints, if not a little more. 

Lids and Handles

While completely optional, and usually ditched by ultralight enthusiasts, lids can help food cook faster and achieve results such as melting cheese atop a burger pattie. Some cookware sets are super efficient, and double their pans as lids.

Handles are also really important to consider. Many sets offer collapsible handles to help save space in your pack while other sets completely ditch them in favor of a single pot lifter/gripper than can be used for multiple pots/pans. This can help save weight for ounce-conscious hikers.  

OPTIONAL GADGETS

Those who can’t bear to go a morning without coffee may want to invest in a french press. You can find compact and durable ones made specifically for backpacking! Coffee while camping may seem like a luxury to some, but it’s a necessity for many! Car campers may enjoy a dutch oven as it increases your dinner options and makes large meals easy to cook.

FEATURES EXPLAINED

Bisphenol A – a chemical used to make polycarbonate plastics that is not food safe. When choosing plastic containers for food and water, make sure they’re BPA-free. 

Many of the pots and pans on the list above are measured in liters, which is roughly 4 cups of water. 

A style of backpacking that focuses on reducing unnecessary weight to make travel lighter. Many ultralight backpackers obsess over ounces and have been known to snap toothbrushes in half and shave them down to create the most minimalist design possible. Their theory is that each ounce saved ends up equalling pounds, and each pound saved over a mile is less energy spent.  

For more of our top hiking & backpacking gear recommendations, check out these popular buyer's guides:

Best Hiking Backpacks

Best Backpacking Tents

Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags

Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads

Best Backpacking Stoves

Best Hiking Boots For Men ( and Women )

Best Hiking Shoes For Men ( and Women )

2 Responses

Wow, Great post. I’m enjoying reading this article. These are looking cool cookware sets, I like to try MSR Quick 2 System cookware sets. BTW Thanks for sharing this valuable information.

Thanks for mentioning that aluminum is affordable for camping cookware. You also said that it is very lightweight. I think it’s a good idea to choose camping cooking supplies that are compact for travel.

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• Ultralight Backpacking Gear
• Best Ultralight Backpacks
• Best Ultralight Sleeping Bags
• Best Ultralight Tents
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The 13 Best Backpacking Cookware for 2024

Here is a guide to the best backpacking cookware..

With so many different models and so many factors to consider, choosing your backpacking cookware can be daunting. So,  w e went ahead and tested the recommended backpacking cookware models out there. Read on to see what model is for you and receive some buying advice to help you choose.

Table of Contents

Best backpacking cookware, key factors to consider when choosing, other things to consider.

 The best backpacking cookware is:

• Best Titanium Pot For One: TOAKS TITANIUM
• Best Overall Backpacking Cookware For Two: MSR TRAIL POT
• Best Backpacking Cookware Set: TOAKS TITANIUM SET
• Best Budget Backpacking Cookware Set: G4FREE 2 PIECE
• Lightest Backpacking Pot: EVERNEW TITANIUM PASTA POT
• Most Durable Backpacking Pot: SNOW PEAK TREK 700 TITANIUM

Best Titanium Pot For One:

Toaks titanium.

Price: $34.95

✅ Ultralight

✅ Inexpensive

✅ Full-featured

❌ Durability

• Type: Single pot
• Capacity: 750 ml
• Weight: 3.6 oz (0.225 lbs)
• Material: Titanium
• Serves: One

The Toaks Titanium is an outstanding value, making this our best overall backpacking cookware for single use. We found this pot to be well-made and were impressed that it’s a fraction of the price of other titanium pots. At 3.6 ounces it’s the second lightest on our list. We did find that the thin design needed a bit of extra care to avoid denting. Other features we liked were the foldaway handles, steam holes, and internal gradation. The 750ml version is the perfect size for a small fuel canister, pocket stove, matches/lighter, and even a collapsible mug that you can store at the top instead of the lid. The volume is a little less than we’d prefer but the flip side is it makes this pot extremely packable.

Best Overall Backpacking Cookware For Two:

Msr trail pot.

✅ Largest pot volume on our list

✅ Best 2-person option

❌ Packability

• Type: Single Pot
• Capacity: 1300 ml
• Weight: 7.2 oz (0.45 lbs)
• Material: Anodized aluminum pot, plastic lid
• Serves: Two

At 1.3 liters the MSR Trail Pot is our top pick for 2-person-sized backpacking cookware. We love that the clear plastic strainer lid lets us watch while we cooked. No need to lift the lid to monitor. The handle locks over the lid when closed keeping the contents securely inside. We like the aluminum construction for keeping the cost lower and providing better heat distribution, which allows for better cooking performance. The larger size meant we were able to fit a stove and cooking utensils inside without a problem.

Best Backpacking Cookware Set:

Toaks titanium set.

Price: $54.95

✅ Lightest 2-piece cook set on our list

❌ Pot and pan do not nest

• Type : 2-piece set
• Capacity: Pot 1100ml, pan 280ml
• Weight: 5.6 oz (0.35 lbs)

We’re impressed with the Toaks Titanium 2-piece cook set. We found it to be a great mid-size ultralight backpacking cookware set striking a nice balance between capacity and weight. It offers a little more volume than a standalone pot without adding too much extra weight. Unlike the other two-piece cook sets on our list, the Toaks Titanium cannot be used as a double boiler because it doesn’t nest. The price is higher but still reasonable compared to other models we reviewed. Especially for such a lightweight option. The Toaks Titanium Set is our top pick for best backpacking cookware set.

Best Budget Backpacking Cookware Set:

G4free 2 piece.

Price: $17.99

✅ Cheapest set on our list

✅ Highest volume set

❌ Non-stick coating prone to scratching

• Type: 2-piece set
• Capacity: Large pot 1200 ml, small pot 600 ml
• Weight: 8.5 oz (0.53lbs)
• Material: Anodized Aluminum

If budget is your ultimate concern G4Free offers two pots for less than the cost of one, making this our top budget pick. With a 1.2 liter and .6 liter capacity, we had plenty of room to cook for two people. Durability is a concern for us with the G4Free. The silicon-coated handles can melt over high heat and the non-stick coating scratches easily. But for weekend trips, light use, or those looking to make the jump to ultralight without a big price tag we found the G4Free does the job nicely.

Lightest Backpacking Pot:

Evernew titanium pasta pot.

Price: $97.74

✅ Rubberized handles

❌ Expensive

• Weight: 3.4 oz (0.21 lbs)

The Evernew Titanium Pasta Pot is a super light, compact, and strong pot. For you noodle lovers out there we especially love the built-in strainer in the lid. We found this to be an exceptionally well-made pot. It felt solid in our hands while still being ultralight. It comes complete with graduated measurements in both milliliters and ounces. However, we didn’t like that they were in non-standard backpacking meal measurement sizes. When not cooking, the fuel canister and a pocket stove fit nicely inside the pot. The price of this pot is our biggest con. It’s the second most expensive on our list. Still, if weight is your ultimate concern this is the lightest pot on our list.

Most Durable Backpacking Pot:

Snow peak trek 700 titanium.

Price: $49.95

✅ Durability

✅ Lightweight

❌ Loose lid

• Capacity: 700 ml
• Weight: 4.8 oz (0.3 lbs)

We found the Snow Peak Titanium Trek 700 achieves a good balance between weight and usability. At 4.8 ounces it’s not as lightweight as other titanium options, but the thicker titanium construction makes it extra durable. The Trek 700 has a lid with a drain hole/strainer and can fit a stove and canister. The cover sits flush but does not snap into the pot. Be careful if carrying around camp and when storing in your pack and the lid may come off. It has the least amount of volume of any of the cookware we reviewed. Due to the solid construction, we vote the Snow Peak Trek 700 our most durable backpacking cookware.

The Other Noteworthy Models

• GSI Outdoors Halulite Pot

Price: $39.95

✅ Durable handle

✅ Inexpensive option for two

✅ Great cooking performance

• Capacity: 1100 ml
• Weight: 8.6 oz (0.54 lbs)
• Material: Anodized aluminum

To us, the standout feature of the GSI Halulite pot is the locking handle. This keeps the pot from popping open in your pack and makes it super sturdy to carry around camp when full. At 1.1 liters in size, we found it can easily fit an 8-ounce fuel canister and a small stove. The anodized aluminum keeps the cost of this pot down and conducts heat more evenly than titanium, making it a great option for more labor-intensive meals.

MSR Titan Kettle

Price: $69.95

✅ Larger capacity

✅ Easy pour spout

❌ Doesn’t fit some fuel canisters

• Capacity: 850 ml
• Weight: 4.2 oz (0.26 lbs)

Just a few fractions of an ounce heavier than the Evernew, the MSR Titan Kettle is a great ultralight backpacking pot with extra cooking capacity. We like that it’s a sturdy pot with handles that provide a solid grip especially when the pot is full. Another feature we like is the drip-free spout, making pouring water easy. We loved this for pouring into backpacking meal pouches. The top-lid handle is insulated but the side handles are not making this a good option for cooking over a fire. Our biggest gripe with the Titan Kettle is its height. The kettle is a tad too short to fit some fuel canisters.

Sea to Summit Alpha Pot - 1.2 Liters

Price: $42.95

✅ Lightweight two-person option

✅ Cooking performance

❌ More expensive than similar models

• Capacity: 1200 ml
• Weight: 6.6 oz (0.41 lbs)

The Sea to Summit Alpha Pot boasts an impressive 1.2-liter capacity at just 6.6 ounces. It is also packed with features like a strainer, etched measuring marks, and silicone grips. The pivoting handle secures the lid in place when stored and provides a sturdy grip while cooking. The size makes it just big enough to cook for two and has plenty of room to store your stove and fuel inside. Like all pots with silicon grips, they are prone to melting if cooking over a fire or under very high heat.

• Olicamp XTS

Price: $32.99

✅ Built-in heat-sink

❌ Best for boiling water only

• Capacity: 1000 ml
• Weight: 6.7 oz (0.42 lbs)

Our favorite feature of the Olicamp XTS’s is the built-in heat transfer system on the bottom of the pot. This reduces your boil time by up to 40% saving time and fuel. We found it great for rehydrating freeze-dried meals. By prioritizing a fast boil it didn’t perform as well for us when trying to cook slow and low. The 1-liter anodized aluminum pot easily fits an 8-ounce fuel canister along with a small stove. While slightly heavier than other models we reviewed, the need for less fuel can balance out the weight difference. Plus, the inexpensive price point makes this a great value pot.

• Vargo BOT 700ml

Price: $99.95

✅ Versatile screw lid

✅ Fits gas can and stove

❌ Lower volume-to-weight ratio

The titanium Vargo BOT’s most notable feature is the screw lid. We think this is a clever design making the pot versatile for both hot and cold meal prep. We found the water tight lid to be excellent for cold-soaking while on the move. The screw lid can also be used for cooking, but make sure it’s not threaded too tightly otherwise the pressure build-up can cause the lid to stick. The pot includes graduated measurements and foldaway handles. It's also big enough to hold a small gas cylinder, a stove, and a lighter. We don’t love the price, this is the most expensive backpacking cookware on our list.

SOTO Amicus Cookset Combo

Price: $44.95

✅ All-in-one package including stove

❌ Basic construction

• Type: 2-piece set with stove
• Capacity: Large pot 1000 ml, small pot 500 ml
• Weight: 11.2 oz (0.7 lbs)
• Material: Aluminum

If you need a lightweight bundle the SOTO Amicus Cookset Combo has you covered, even providing the stove. We found the two aluminum pots are basic and durability to be a drawback. But they are fully functional if you don’t need all the bells and whistles. The smaller pot makes a great cup or serves as the lid for the larger pot. Weight wise this is the heaviest set on our list. For less than $50 for the entire set, this is a bargain for those looking to upgrade a camp kitchen in one go.

Vargo Titanium Ti-Boiler

✅ Multiple cooking configurations

❌ Most expensive and smallest volume pot set on our list

• Capacity: Pot 900ml, pan 400 ml

Vargo Titanium Ti-Boiler is a two-piece cooking kit with a larger pot and a lid that functions as a small pan. What stood out to us was the Ti-Boiler lid that is uniquely designed to nest on top of the mug. We were able to use it as a double boiler too. We found the lid to be versatile and were able to use it as separately as a pan, which is handy if you want to cook something quickly. The cup and lid fit snugly and have a sleek and seamless ultralight titanium construction. Both the pot and the lid/pan have foldaway handles without any rubber insulation.

Material is the biggest factor when it comes to price. Titanium is light but expensive. Stainless steel is heavy but inexpensive. Aluminum falls in the middle. Features also can add to the price. Simple, single pots are generally less expensive than multi-pot sets or single pots with all the bells and whistles. Premium options are made of titanium and are extremely lightweight. They also can include extra features like a screw top lid, pasta strainer, or graduated measurements.

Backpacking Cookware that provides the greatest value:

• Toaks Titanium
• MSR Trail Pot

Affordable Backpacking Cookware:

• G4Free 2 Piece

Premium Backpacking Cookware (Most Expensive):

• Evernew Titanium Pasta Pot

Like price, materials are the biggest factor affecting weight. Titanium is the lightest, followed by aluminum, and stainless steel ranks last. For a single pot, our recommendation is 5 ounces or less. For a two-person pot we recommend under 9 ounces.

The Lightest Single Pot: Vargo BOT 700ml

The Lightest Two Person Pot : Sea to Summit Alpha Pot

The Lightest Pot Set: Toaks Titanium Set

COOKING PERFORMANCE

Many factors affect the cooking performance of your cookware. Even heat distribution is key to preventing burning if you want to do more than just boiling water. Aluminum distributes heat the most evenly. Titanium and stainless steel are prone to hotspots. Durability is important so your pot holds up to cooking night after night. Like your cookware at-home features like handles, non-stick coating, and measuring marks will help you achieve your backcountry chef aspirations.

The best performing backpacking cookware:

• Sea to Summit Alpha Pot

The best budget performer: G4Free 2 Piece

CAPACITY/ VOLUME

Pot size is measured in milliliters (ml) or liters. For one person, 600ml is the minimum capacity to consider. This will give you enough to boil water for a simple backpacking meal - a dehydrated or freeze-dried meal, a cup of noodles, etc. Anything over 1,000 ml (1 liter) is overkill. For two people 1100 ml (1.1 liters) is as small as you should go, ideally, at least 1200ml (1.2 liters). If you plan on cooking more complex or larger meals you’ll want to size up.

The Largest Backpacking Cookware for one person: Olicamp XTS

The Largest Backpacking Cookware for two people: MSR Trail Pot

The Most Versatile Sized Backpacking Cookware: GSI Outdoors Halulite Pot

Cookware Materials

Types of cookware.

• Packability
• Non-Stick Coating
• Measurement Gradients
• Heat Conduction and Fuel Efficiency

Just like the pots in your kitchen, backpacking cookware is available in a variety of different metals . Some are heavy, some are light. Some are cheap and some are expensive. Below we breakdown the materials most commonly used for backcountry cooking:

TITANIUM:  LIGHTWEIGHT, STRONG, FUEL EFFICIENT AND EXPENSIVE

Titanium cookware is the most popular for ultralight backpacking and my personal favorite. As a raw material, is one of the lightest of all the material options. Despite being super light, it is extremely strong (on par with steel) and is known for being highly corrosion-resistant.

Because the material is so thin, it can transfer heat efficiently without using too much fuel. This efficient heat transfer makes titanium perfect for boiling water, but it is not ideal for "slow-cooking" as it tends to distribute heat unevenly. You can burn your food before you even realize it. Titanium’s other Achilles heel is its cost. Titanium cookware tends to be the more expensive option.

In general, titanium is considered safe for cooking. It's non-porous and does not tend to leach. It also does not corrode and is durable so you don't have to worry about it flaking off into your food.

ALUMINUM:  USUALLY LARGER AND LIGHTER BUT LESS DURABLE

Anodized Aluminum is actually *slightly* lighter than titanium. It is the best for actual cooking as it distributes heat evenly across the cooking surface. This even distribution is why anodized aluminum is the first choice among household pots and pans. It is the least durable option though and can require a little more maintenance, especially if it has a non-stick surface.

Aluminum pots typically are larger than titanium which is important if you need to heat water or simmer food for a group. There’s also concern that aluminum may leach out into the food. This only happens when the pot is not anodized. Anodizing hardens the cookware and makes it more durable. It also makes it non-reactive so it will not leach into foods.

STAINLESS STEEL: AFFORDABLE AND DURABLE, BUT HEAVY

The strongest and heaviest option for cookware. Steel is able to take a beating with minimal, or no, scratching. It’s also the most affordable material with some pots costing less than $10.

There is little to no evidence that stainless steel is harmful for cooking. It does contain elements like iron, nickel and chromium that can leach into your food. The amount that can leach into your food is minuscule unless you damage the cooking vessel. Wash it gently with water and a mild soap if possible. Don't use abrasive steel wool or harsh chemicals and you'll be fine.

  NON-STICK COATINGS:  NOT DURABLE, POTENTIALLY UNSAFE

Some pots add a non-stick coating like Teflon to prevent food from sticking to the inside of the cooking vessel. It also makes it easier to clean. As convenient as it is, we recommend avoiding any non-stick coatings. They shorten the life-span of the pot. Your pot can be perfect on the outside, but once the non-stick coating starts to flake, you need to throw away the pot.

There’s also the question of safety as perfluorooctanoic acid or PFOA used to make the non-stick layer is a suspected carcinogen. Mot manufacturers, though, no longer use this chemical.

CAST IRON: NO WAY!

This is not the 1800's. Don’t bring it any cast iron cookware. It is way too heavy. Save your cast iron for car camping or van life.

There are several types of cookware options for backpackers. There is no right or wrong choice. What you pick to throw in your pack depends on what you plan to eat on your trip.

A. Kettle: If you are only boiling water, then you should consider a kettle. Just like your household teapot, a backpacking kettle is designed to boil water rapidly and pour it without spilling into another vessel. It has a wide base, a small pout, and a lid to help hold in heat. They tend to be relatively small in size holding 1.5L or less of water. Kettle’s heat water quickly but they can be bulky to pack and difficult to clean.

B. Pot (Cup): You also can choose a pot, which people also call a pot. A backpacking cook pot looks more like an oversized mug than a typical kitchen pot. Most people heat water in their pot, but you also can use it to simmer food that needs some cooking time. It has a wide opening at the top so you can eat from it and then easily clean it. Best of all, many pots are big enough to hold your fuel canister. Being able to nest the two together can save some significant space in your pack.

C. Pan: Pans are great if you are frying or sauteing food, but they are not as versatile as a pot/cup. Because they are flat and wide, you can't boil a lot of water in them. They also are usually heavy to carry and take up a lot of room in your pack.

D. Cookset: There are a ton of multi-piece cooksets on the market, but we did not include the larger kits in this roundup. Many of those kits are too heavy for backpacking and are really meant for camping. Some of our pot choices may have multiple parts like a lid or a cup, but these items add value to the pot without adding too much weight.

PACKABILITY

When thinking about packability, there are two primary concerns. The first is the overall shape of the pot and how it fits into your pack. Small, compact pots are the best. Larger, flatter pans are more awkward to pack. The second is if your fuel canister and stove can fit inside. This not only saves space but makes it easy to organize your camp kitchen in one handy spot.

Durability is crucial for any gear taken into the backcountry, pots are no exception. Stainless steel is almost impossible to dent or scratch. But it is heavy. Titanium is much lighter while still being very strong, though it comes at a higher price. Most aluminum pots come with a non-stick coating, which is easily scratched by metal utensils and abrasive cleaners.

NON-STICK COATING

Non-stick coatings give your pot extra protection against food sticking and burning. Teflon is the most common coating but it is very easily scratched. When scratched the coating will flake off. There are concerns that these flakes are toxic to ingest. Ceramic coatings are relatively new on backcountry pots. They are becoming increasingly popular because they are more durable and non-toxic.

A well-designed lid should fit your pot snugly both for cooking and so you don't lose it on the trail. A snug lid also lets you store items inside the pot and not worry about them falling out into your pack. Keep in mind that the lid will be hot most of the time you want to lift it. Therefore, a small knob or tassel to easily lift it is essential. If you are a pasta or ramen fan, a lid with a built-in strainer can be a helpful feature to have as well.

Most backpacking pots have hinged handles that fold away when not in use. Make sure these hinge and swing without much resistance. Also, make sure they are rugged as you will be using them when you remove the pot off of your stove or pour out the hot water. Some pots add rubber coatings to prevent you from burning your fingers. If cooking over a fire these can melt off. If using bare-metal handles grab a small cloth (bandanna, towel, sock, etc) to hold the handles when they are hot.

MEASUREMENT GRADIENTS

Marks on the inside of your pot can be super helpful to quickly eyeball measurements for cooking. Measuring a little more accurately can prevent your noodles from turning into a watery sludge or a dry and crunchy paste. Try to find gradient lines that are etched into the pot itself and not painted. Lines that are painted eventually wash off, leaving you to guess where you should fill your water.

HEAT CONDUCTION AND FUEL EFFICIENCY

Aluminum is the best conductor of heat, making it the most efficient. If you want maximum conduction and efficiency look for features like metal heat sinks on the bottom of pots. This extra material more evenly distributes the heat and gets water up to a boil faster, saving you fuel.

What's the best cookware for backpacking?

The best cookware for backpacking is Toaks Titanium according to our research.

How do I choose a backpacking Cookset?

To choose a backpacking cookset, think first about what your needs are. The most important consideration is volume. Is it for one or two people? Then decide on weight. Buy the lightest pot you can afford. The next important consideration is intended use. If you plan on using it to heat water only a simple, no-frills model will do. If you want to be a backcountry chef you’ll want more features. Other important considerations are durability, packability, lid and handle design, and fuel efficiency.

What pans for backpacking?

Pans for backpacking are often part of a backpacking cookset. For the best cooking performance choose pans made from aluminum.

📸  Some photos in this post were taken by Ross Enlow ( @rossaenlow )

About Justin Sprecher

About greenbelly.

After thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail, Chris Cage created Greenbelly to provide fast, filling and balanced meals to backpackers. Chris also wrote How to Hike the Appalachian Trail .

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The Best Camping Cookware of 2024

By Laura Lancaster

Updated on Jun 9, 2023 2:08 PM EDT

12 minute read

Best for Overall

Stanley adventure even-heat camp pro cookset, best non-stick, msr ceramic 2-pot set, best collapsible, sea to summit x-pot.

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn More ›

There is something undeniably satisfying about a great set of camping cookware. When you’re out in the woods, far from the convenience of takeout or a microwave, the joys of cooking for your family comes into focus. But to make a great meal deserving of the great outdoors you’ll need the right tools for the job. To find the best camping cookware available today, I tested 11 sets from seven different manufacturers and narrowed the list down to the four best options.

• Best for Overall: Stanley Adventure Even-Heat Camp Pro Cookset
• Best Non-Stick: MSR Ceramic 2-Pot Set
• Best Collapsible: Sea to Summit X-Pot
• Best for Backpackers: Snow Peak Trek 900

How I Tested the Best Camping Cookware 

Sifting through all the options out there for the best camping cookware sets can be an overwhelming task because what defines cookware can include everything from dishes to cooking utensils, camping stoves to griddles, or pot holders to grills. But at the core of any camping cookware set is one thing: the pot. To test the pots in these camping cookware sets, I first measured how long each took to boil two cups of water. This is most important if you’re concerned about fuel usage. During this test, I also watched to see how much the pot vibrated while boiling the water. This is a function of how heavy the bottom of the pot is. And then I tested to see how difficult it would be to drain water out of each pot, such as when cooking pasta. 

The next test was to see how the camping cookware handled actual food. To do this, I mixed together one half cup of white rice, one half cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and one egg. I poured it into the pan and set the temperature to medium-high heat. Then I cooked it until the top of the mixture was no longer runny and removed the pot from the heat.

Once it cooled off sufficiently, I peeled back the congealed egg/rice/cheese combo. I checked how evenly the mixture cooked (in other words, if there were any hot spots). Unsurprisingly, in almost all cases, the mixture burned. But that was the idea, too. After all, you’ve probably forgotten about a pot or two on the stove while out in the backcountry. How hard could it be to clean these pans by hand, with just a sponge and some lukewarm soapy water campground style? I’m still trying to clean some of these pots. 

Best Camping Cookware: Reviews & Recommendations

Best overall: stanley adventure even-heat camp pro cookset, key features.

• Includes 4.5 liter pot, 1.8 liter pot, one 8.5-inch frying pan, and two lids
• Also includes a collapsible cutting board, two-piece spatula, two-piece cooking spoon, two trivets, and locking bungee 
• Weight: 8 pounds, 3 ounces
• Materials: Stainless steel
• Locking bungee holds everything inside the main pot during travel
• Heats food evenly with no hot spots
• Useful extras
• Too heavy for backpacking
• Harder to clean than non-stick pans
• Took the longest to boil water during test

This durable Stanely set nests well to save space in your camping box and also had some of the best heat distribution of anything I tested. The first thing you notice when you pick up the Stanley Adventure Even-Heat Camp Pro Cookset is its weight. While this is a negative for anyone shopping for a backpacking pot, car campers and overlanders will appreciate this virtually indestructible set. This included the connection between the handle and the pot, which is a weak spot for several other sets in our test. I was unable to make a dent in the Stanley Adventure handles, which bodes well for its long-term durability. There were also no plastic pieces on the pots or frying pans, another common fail point of camping cookware. 

Another benefit of the Stanley Adventure’s heavier build is that the cookset distributed the heat well during the cook and burn test. It cooked the mixture of rice, eggs, and cheese evenly across the bottom of the pan. Unfortunately the lack of a non-stick surface made cleaning sticky bits off the bottom of this pan just as much of a chore as the other stainless steel options.

Something else I liked about this set was how it packed away. When nested together, the collapsible handles of the saucepan and frying pan nested inside of the soup pot. This minimizes the likelihood of these moveable parts failing in the future. The only true downside to all this rugged durability is that it increased the amount of time it took to boil water during the boil test.

• Includes 2.5 liter pot, 1.5 liter pot, one lid, and one handle
• Weight: 1 pound
• Materials: Ceramic-coated aluminum, aluminum, stainless steel, nylon, rubber
• Non-stick surface makes for a quick and easy cleanup
• Distributed heat evenly
• Affordably priced
• Low weight makes this a reasonable choice for backpacking
• Not as durable as the stainless steel models tested
• Only one handle and one lid for two pots

This compact and affordable set cooked food evenly and was the easiest to clean of anything I tried. This two-pot set from MSR was a close runner-up for the best overall slot. It was both great to cook in—a true non-stick surface—and a breeze to clean up afterward. While virtually every other pot needed some elbow grease to clean, all of the food in the MSR Ceramic peeled right off and left almost no residue behind. 

Despite its robust appearance, the aluminum construction of this set means it has some give when pressure is applied, especially compared to the stainless steel pots in my test. I wouldn’t sit on my pack if this was inside. But this slight tradeoff in durability is more than compensated for by its weight. This set is so light that I wouldn’t hesitate to take it on short backpacking trips where I’m planning to do some real cooking. 

The biggest flaw with the MSR Ceramic 2-Pot Set is that it comes with one handle and one lid. The lid is meant to be used interchangeably with the two pots. Even in backcountry cooking, where you probably only have a single burner at your disposal, you would at least want two lids. The extra one can keep the food that came off the stove warm. And unlike the clamps used in other MSR cookware, the handle for this pot is somewhat difficult to remove without touching the pot itself. This makes it difficult to toggle back and forth with a two-burner car camping setup. As of this writing, there wasn’t an option available from MSR to purchase a second lid or handle. Hopefully that changes in the future. 

• Includes one pot (available in 1.4, 2.8, and 4.0 liters) 
• Weight: 10 ounces
• Materials: Silicone with an aluminum base
• Extremely compact
• Securely drains water
• Lightweight enough for backpacking
• Heat must be kept low to prevent the sides from melting
• Less stable than a metal pot
• Comparatively high price for a single piece of cookware

Twice, I have packed myself into a Mini Cooper with three other people to go car camping. Those times, space wasn’t just tight—it was nonexistent. But even if you do choose a more appropriate vehicle for your next car camping trip, you may still find yourself stuffing pillows, snacks, and pots and pans into every last available crevice of your car. If you’re nodding along to any of this, then the collapsible Sea to Summit X-Set 33 might catch your attention.

When flattened, the X-Pot towers at an impressive one inch thick, which makes it easy to cram into just about any nook left in your vehicle. It’s also surprisingly stable, given that it’s mainly made out of silicone. I had no problem draining water out of the lid by holding onto the two generous handles and pressing my thumbs onto the tabs on top of the lid. But the real surprise here was how easily it cleaned up. The food didn’t stick at all to the sides of the silicone during the cook and burn test. There was only a faint outline of where the food burned on the aluminum bottom to deal with after scraping the food from the bottom. 

Best for Backpackers: Snow Peak Trek 900 Titanium

• Includes 0.9 liter pot and one lid
• Also includes a mesh storage bag
• Weight: 6.2 ounces
• Materials: Titanium
• Lightweight
• Pack easily
• Thin titanium means food can burn easily

When you’re carrying everything on your back, weight is king. That’s why this 6 ounce pot from Snow Peak makes an easy pick for backpackers. I’ve taken this pot on hundreds of nights of backpacking. Still, I am consistently impressed with how well it stands up to the rigors of trail life despite its comparatively low weight. Where this pot struggles is with temperature regulation. The thin titanium conducts heat quickly.

While this is helpful when you want to boil water, it can make heating up even something as straightforward as marinara sauce a challenge—you’ll need to stir it constantly to prevent it from burning on the bottom. It also makes the lid’s double life as a frying pan impractical at best. Unsurprisingly, the egg, rice, and cheese mixture burned faster than anything else in the test (I had to actually open a window on this one). I’m still trying to get the charred bits off the bottom. If you plan to do real, gourmet cooking in the backcountry, then the MSR Ceramic 2-Pot Set is a better choice. But if you just want to boil water for some mac and cheese, this is a great pick. 

Things to Consider Before Buying Camping Cookware

Non-stick surfaces.

Cleaning up food stuck to the bottom of a pan is enough of a chore at home, where you have access to virtually endless hot water, a dishwasher, and any scrub brush imaginable. But in the backcountry, it’s usually just a collapsible camp sink, some biodegradable soap, and a sponge that’s on its last legs. Given that, it’s no surprise that so many people prioritize non-stick surfaces when looking for camping cookware.

Three of the most common types are seasoned cast-iron, ceramic coatings, and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) coatings, generally known by the brand name Teflon. While extremely popular in the past, PTFE coating has somewhat fallen out of favor due to the now-banned chemicals it contains. Cast iron, a classic for outdoor cookware, is both inexpensive to purchase and maintain, though it can take some practice to maintain for first-time users. Ceramic coatings are similar in function to PFTE coatings but without the negative history attached. 

Most car camping and overlanding cookware sets are made from stainless steel for good reason—it’s extremely durable. Backpacking or base camp sets, like our Best Non-Stick, Best Collapsible, and Best for Backpacking options, are typically made out of either aluminum (less durable) or titanium (more expensive).

Cookware size can range from barely a liter to the brim to well over six. Choose the size that best fits the number of people in your group as well as the types of dishes you prefer to make while camping. Some of the best camping meals only require boiling water to prepare, while other elaborate meals might require more space. 

While this isn’t a deciding factor by any means, several of the sets in our test came with extras. This included things like trivets, a strainer, and even a tiny wooden spoon. Depending on where you are in outfitting your camp kitchen and if you already have some of the best camping utensils , these extras may be useful additions or little more than trash to discard with the cardboard box. 

Ones that Didn’t Make the Cut

I was initially impressed by the GSI Glacier Base Camper , which was easy to cook with. But I soon found that the exposed connection points between the handle and the body of the pots were less durable than they appeared. They needed to be re-bent at one point to close the lid back. I also checked out two other Stanley sets: the Adventure Cook Set for Four and the Adventure Even-Heat Essential Pot Set . While both of these performed the same as our best overall rec, they lacked the space-saving functionality that made the Camp Pro Cookset a stand out. I was somewhat less impressed by the UST Solo Cook Kit . While fairly cheap, it had similar durability issues to the Odoland and Bisgear sets mentioned above. It is also likely to be considered too small by all but the most dedicated minimalists.

Camping cookware typically costs between $50 and $150, depending on the size and number of pieces in your set.

If you run a search for “camping cookware” on Amazon, you’ll find a number of variety packs that include everything from a pot to a tea kettle to a tiny wooden spatula to child-sized stainless steel cups. These variety packs are sold under a number of different names, including Bisgear, Odoland, Mallome, RedCamp, Winterial, swiftrans, Ouryoyo, Overmont, Gutsdoor, G4Free, Bulin, Terra Hiker…you get the idea. Most of these have no other website than their Amazon store and certainly no customer service number you can call. If this sounds fishy to you, well it does to me too.  After purchasing a couple of these I feel confident saying that while each of these variety packs include one or two items that are useful, the majority of what is packed inside is not high enough quality to use long-term (or at all) in the backcountry. I’m talking metal that bends and warps easily, plastic that breaks, and utensils that make the spork look high-end. If you’re looking for a steal on some camping cookware, this is not it. Save your money for higher quality gear. 

I didn’t include a budget pick on this list for one simple reason: you probably already own it. When I was first planning my own car camping trips in college, I routinely raided my shared kitchen for pots, pans, utensils, cutting boards, knives, you name it. Everything we owned had already been purchased on a tight budget, so there was no need to purchase a new budget pot just for car camping. (And if you are somehow that rare bird that owns only Le Creusets, then try Goodwill, they’ve got plenty of options.) Until you’re able to afford a high-quality camping cookware set, this will do just fine. 

While camping, it’s good practice to store your pots and pans in your vehicle at night. The reason for this is simple: unwanted smells can attract a variety of wildlife to your campsite, from field mice to raccoons to black bears, though my personal nemesis is the gray jay, which, once accustomed to human food, will dive bomb you mid bite to steal a potato chip out of your hand. But wild animals that get a whiff of food from your pots and pans doesn’t just create a nuisance for you, it’s also dangerous to the animals, who are more likely to be put down when they focus on human food sources over wild ones. 

Final Thoughts

To find the best camping cookware available today, I tested sets from some of the most reputable brands in the business. This includes Snow Peak, GSI, Stanley, Sea to Summit, and MSR. I also tested some sets from a few brands that are a bit more opaque, such as Odoland and Bisgear. The Stanley Even-Heat Pro Camp Set came out on top. Though I was more than impressed with every set I on my best-of list. They would be an excellent addition to just about any camp kitchen. 

Best camping cookware set 2024: compact, clever cooking and dining sets

Our guide to the best camping cookware sets includes pots and pans for solo travellers, couples and families

If you're looking for the best camping cookware set to take away on your outdoor adventures, we're here to help. The camping cookware market is extremely broad – ranging from bog-standard cheap pans that'll do the job (just), right up to highly specialised, super lightweight options for serious excursions. As you'd also expect, there is a perfect camping cookware set for almost every situation and use, from solo mountain bivvys in extreme winter conditions through to family car camping with all the mod cons of home. 

Of course, you don't necessarily need special pots and pans for camping. Today's best camping stoves will work with most cookware from home, and some come with integrated cooking pots. That said, at-home pots and pans are not built for easy transport – anyone who has ever tried to Tetris a heavy set of mismatched pots and pans into a hiking backpack will know. If you're doing anything more than the odd car camping trip, a dedicated camping cookware set will save you space, weight and packing time, and make catering in the great outdoors that much simpler and more enjoyable. Many of these sets also incorporate crockery and cutlery, for the ultimate one-and-done catering solution (it's surprisingly easy to forget to pack, for instance, some spoons). 

In terms of materials, titanium is typically considered the best option – it's super light, conducts heat extremely well, and won't leave your food tasting funny. More common, though, is stainless steel. This is also a great choice for camping cookware, being nice and durable although typically slightly heavier than titanium.

We've tried to cover off the full range here to provide a range of camping pots and pans for every taste and situation. Hop to the bottom of the page for some buying advice , or read on for our pick of the best camping cookware sets to buy now. 

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The best camping cookware sets 2023, ranked

Why you can trust T3 Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test .

1. Sea to Summit Alpha Pot Cook Set 2.2

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

Our pick for the best camping cookware set overall right now is the Sea to Summit Alpha Pot Set 2.2. There are more specialist options to follow, but this set offers a lot of practicality, a mid-range price and a mid-range weight to boot. Large pan, small pan, two bowls and two cups (there are also four person and solo versions available) sounds like a pretty standard set, but as usual the details here are key. 

That larger Hard-Anodised Aluminium pot is a 2.7 litre monster, enough to hold a robust casserole for two, with the smaller 1.2 litre pan still larger than many others here. Each pot has a lid too, making cooking after a long day much easier without having to empty a mug to use as a lid or improvise something else. Both lids have drain holes too, again simplifying the mechanics of chef-ing over a gas stove in a wood. Sea to Summit's minimalist handle and Pivot-Lock system for swivelling the handles in and out and locking them into place works extremely well, and the handles feel secure, comfortable to grip, and effective, even with a full pan of food. The dishes are deep enough to contain food neatly. The jackets on the 'Insul' mugs are a bit fiddly, and you need to be sure to press the lids down firmly to form a secure seal – but still work pretty well. Both the dishes and cups are made from BPA-free, glass reinforced polypropylene, which is reassuringly tough. 

We tested out the 4-person version of this set – see what we thought in our Sea to Summit Alpha 2 Pot Set 4.2 review . Combine with one of the best camping chairs (or, if you're not pushed for space, one of the best camping tables ) and you're all set for an evening meal in the great outdoors.

2. SnowPeak Titanium Solo Combo 2.0

The Japanese minimalist outdoor folk at SnowPeak have been making tiny yet well-formed titanium goodies for years, and the Solo Combo 2.0 is no exception. Heavy on the wallet but ultralight in the rucksack, this tiny cookset will be a dependable friend for decades. A 30 fl oz pot is enough for a decent meal for one, and with a little ingenuity there's plenty of culinary opportunities here. The smaller pot doubles up as a cup, and the lid's silicone tab allows it to be lifted without gloves while hot. Additionally, you'll fit two 110-g fuel canisters into the large pot for super-compact packing – also aided by the fact the pots nest neatly within each other in a very zen-like display.  

3. Quechua Hiker's camping SS cooking set

When you need everything but the kitchen sink, Quechua's Hikers camping SS set of camping pots and pans a compact yet generous option. It packs in everything you could possibly need, down to four complete sets of plates, cups and cutlery. Clearly aimed at the car-camping/campervan end of the market, there's a sizeable saucepan and a decent frying pan here, a lid and combined strainer as well as a closure tie that doubles as a trivet – perfect for one-pot dinners beside the campervan and family breakfasts alike.

Neat touches include the sliding lock on the frying pan handle, while the tessellating plates and cups will be a dream for the OCD inclined – even the four sets of cutlery have specific slots to lock into for storage. Stainless pans with a non-stick coating should be relatively hassle free to maintain and long pasting too, and all at a keen price point – a campervan classic. This is the only set in this particular range, but Decathlon does a few different camping cookware sets – check them all out here .  

4. Primus Campfire Cookset Large

Some camping is about roughing it, but some is a little more luxurious. The Primus Campfire Cookset is for the latter. In super-durable and easy clean stainless steel, this level of build quality will literally last for centuries, and comes with a host of handy design tweaks too. For starters it all stacks neatly into a neat pile for transport, then there are the integrated colanders in the pot lids, the foldable integrated handles, and the leather tabs that let you lift up a hot lid in comfort. The larger pot's cauldron-style handle can be suspended over an open fire for cowboy-style cookups, and at 3l is big enough for all the family. In conjunction with the Primus Campfire Prep set, this is a well designed and beautifully engineered solution to outdoor cooking.

5. Alpkit MytiStax

The Alpkit Mytistax is the slightly more expensive version of the Easycamp (at #10), with a boatload of small but significant design tweaks that are well worth the extra cash. Firstly, it's made of titanium, not only light but very strong, and also leaving less of a metallic tang to food than plain aluminium. The pan sizes are generous for one and reasonable for two, at 1.2 litres, 0.8 litres and 0.4 litres so it's quite a flexible setup overall. If going solo you have the choice of super light and hungry (73grams, 0.4 litres) or carrying another few grams but feasting like a king (108 grams, 1.2 litres), or playing it safe at 92grams, 0.8 litres. 

In addition, the frying pan is teflon-coated, making bacon butties a genuinely practical option, while the handles are rubber coated to avoid burns. A final trick is that the rims are curled to accept an optional titanium hanging chain kit, allowing use over an open fire. 

6. Sea to Summit X-Set 32

If rucksack room is at a premium, check out the Sea to Summit X-Set 32. This clever camping cookware set collapses flat to save space in your pack. This is achieved by combining a hard anodized aluminium base with a food-grade, heat-resistant silicone upper section. There are a few different configurations in the range, so you can pick the one that suits your party size and cooking preferences. We reviewed the Sea to Summit X-Set 32 , which packs a kettle and pan into the space of a frying pan, and basically covers all your cooking needs in one. The folding silicone pan and kettle are far from flimsy, easy to use, and feel nice and robust – although we'd imagine they won't be as indestructible as a solid option. Be aware that while you might be saving on space, these aren't super lightweight. 

7. MSR Trail Lite Duo

The MSR Trail Lite Duo packs a lot into a pretty lightweight and compact package, essentially nesting two bowls and two double-wall cups into a large pot easily capable of feeding two. The 2 litre pot is not only pretty huge, but also hard anodised to allow easy cleaning, and also sports a locking handle and a clear lid with strainer holes to shift that pasta water. There is unused space still inside the cups when packed down, which will fit folding cutlery or a small stove too, according to MSR. Overall, it's a practical choice for two people doing relatively civilised car-type camping, and the deep dish, BPA-free bowls will be particularly handy for everything from muesli to couscous, but there are lighter options around. There's also a Trail Lite Solo, for lone campers. In fact, MSR makes a whole bunch of excellent camping cookware – browse the full range here . 

8. Vango Hard Anodised 1 Person Cook Kit Grey

This Vango Hard Anodised 1 Person Cook Kit might be small, but it is mightily wallet friendly, and not too heavy on the trail either. A simple small pot with a lid that doubles as a mug, there's not much to dislike here but plenty to be keen on. As with all similar setups, actually cooking in the mug-sized pot is a dangerous game, but as a lid/mug it'll do the job fine. A non-stick hard anodised coating over the aluminium adds durability and should save you from hours of scraping and washing up, while the inbuilt handles have a rubber layer to save your fingers when in use. As a solo starter kit for DofE trips and the like this offers great bang for buck, and you get a carry bag thrown in too.

9. Robens Frontier Set M

The Robens Frontier Set hits the middle ground right on the head – far from ultralight, but not super heavy, no frills but pretty much everything you need. In fact, for longer trail trips or mini-expeditions this is potentially an ideal set, with enough capacity to cook up pretty much anything for two, and cater for up to four with some ingenuity and juggling. Hard anodised alloy pans in roomy 1.6 litres and 1.4 litres are relatively lightweight, while stainless handles should be durable enough to last for years. The handles are silicone covered to protect your hands from hot metal, and a mesh storage bag is included. Need more volume? There's also a Large version. 

10. Outwell Feast Set M

The Outwell Feast Family Cookset nests neatly into a corner or small winnebago cupboard, but with an enormous non-stick 3 litre casserole pot, 1.5 litre saucepan and a frying pan, this is perfectly capable of turning out most home cooking with aplomb. From one-pot family meals to an epic full English, this has got all the bases covered. 

The clever trick here is that both saucepan and frying pan handles unscrew to allow minimum-space packing, but once screwed back in are as solid as traditional home pans – perfect for the long-term van-life cook. Non-stick coatings on all the pans make for easy cleaning in cramped van sinks, while the set also works on induction hobs, for the more high-tech end of the van market. For more people, you could opt for the Feast Set L, which increases the volume in the pans. 

11. Easycamp Adventure Ultralight Cook Set

A proper-old school camping cookware set here, offering no bells or whistles of any kind. Three pans, made from plain lightweight aluminium add up to a mere 160grams, which is pretty light for the set. Foldable handles keep packsize down, the smallest pot makes a good mug and the mid-size a good lid or a secondary pot. The downsides will inevitably involve difficulties cleaning burnt food off, as well as the need to treat the handles relatively carefully as they're plain aluminium and lightly riveted. However, once burned-in at home they'll do the job of solo cooking well, and for lightness on a shoe-string budget, this is a great place to start. 

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How to choose the best camping cookware set

As ever, the key to picking the right cookset for you will depend on where on that scale you plan to be operating, as well as budget and usual trip duration. 

Weight is always important when you're on the move, but try to focus on pan volume as well as outright weight. While it's theoretically possible to cook all sorts of impressive meals in a tiny, cup-sized pan (with youtube videos to prove it), attempting to do this several days in a row after big days out just isn't any fun, and you'll yearn for a proper roomy pot or pan to just bung things in. Just like cooking at home, the smaller the pan the more effort needs to go into stirring and regulating the heat to get a good result, which can also be a drag when tired. 

Also consider pan lids when buying – a lid will save huge amounts of time and fuel when heating stuff up, and is vital in lower temperatures. Ultralight sets will use the mug as a lid, which works in theory, but can be annoying in practice. Constructing your own out of tin foil will seem fine at home, and be completely useless outdoors, so don't be tempted to rely on improvisations. 

Although there are some startlingly cheap unbranded pans (and the inevitable army-surplus mess tin) out there, picking from the reliable brands will give you a much better experience overall, and much longer life to your camping cookware. Primus, MSR, Snow Peak and Sea to Summit are key brands here, all offering a wide range of camp cooking hardware that will suit most tastes at varying price points, sizes and weights. If you're looking for the 'ultimate' flexibility, then a lightweight pan set with various sized-pans is ideal, allowing you to pack whatever suits the trip in hand, although family and van camping scenarios are the exception.

Key elements to look for include decent handles (a fully-loaded 2 litre pot of pasta is quite a weighty beast), proper surface coatings to save hours scrubbing in the stream with a brillo pad, and good quality materials. The latter can be a balancing act (the difference between good aluminum pans and bad ones is night and day), but generally titanium is the premium material, conducting heat astonishingly well, leaving no metallic flavour on food, and being as light as possible. Stainless steel is equally (if not more) durable, but tends to be slightly heavier like for like, with aluminium last – but not least – in the pile. 

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Mark Mayne has been covering tech, gadgets and outdoor innovation for longer than he can remember. A keen climber, mountaineer and scuba diver, he is also a dedicated weather enthusiast and flapjack consumption expert. 

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Best Backpacking Stoves of 2024

From all-in-one models for boiling water to ultralight and alternative-fuel options, we break down the top stoves for backpacking.

Switchback Travel ( Brian McCurdy )

We use affiliate links and may receive a small commission on purchases. Read more about us . 

Backpackers need a stove that is lightweight, dependable, and will get the job done quickly after a long day on the trail. Thankfully, the market is full of both time-tested models and newer, more innovative designs. From all-in-one models made exclusively for boiling water fast to those that cook gourmet meals in the most alpine of conditions, there’s a stove to match every need. Below we break down the top backpacking stoves of 2024, including leading canister, liquid gas, alcohol, and wood-burning models. For more background information, see our backpacking stove comparison table and buying advice below the picks.  

Our Team's Backpacking Stove Picks

• Best Overall Canister Stove: MSR PocketRocket 2
• Best All-in-One Stove System: Jetboil Flash Cooking System
• Best Budget Starter Stove and Cookset: Soto Amicus Stove Cookset Combo
• A Powerful, Compact Stove for the Alpine: MSR Reactor 1.7L Stove System
• An All-in-One System with Simmer Control: Jetboil MiniMo Cooking System
• Best Multi-Fuel Stove for Travel, Altitude, and Cold: MSR WhisperLite Universal
• Best Alternative-Fuel Stove for Backpacking: Solo Stove Lite

Best Overall Canister Stove

1. msr pocketrocket 2 ($50).

With the increased quality and selection of dehydrated meals, many backpackers now use their stove primarily to boil water. If this sounds like you, an integrated canister system like the Jetboil Flash is an excellent option. This all-in-one stove offers fast boiling with an included insulated cozy that attaches directly to the stove via a heat exchanger, making it efficient and wind-resistant (a key point of distinction between the Flash and non-integrated PocketRocket above). The Flash can boil one liter of water in around 3.5 minutes, and considering that you don’t need an additional pot, the total weight of 13.1 ounces is fairly reasonable.

What are the shortcomings of the Jetboil Flash? And as we touched on above, it certainly isn’t ultralight by thru-hiking standards. The inclusion of a pot does help narrow the gap, although the PocketRocket 2 above with MSR’s Titan Kettle still checks in at 6.8 ounces, which is around half the weight of the Flash. And in tough conditions, the burlier MSR’s WindBurner below offers better performance in the wind (for a notable $60 and 2.2 oz. more). Last but not least, Jetboil’s own MiniMo below includes simmer control, but that model boils slower and costs more. All told, it’s tough to beat the boiling speed, price, and ease of use of the Flash, and we think it’s especially enticing for newer backpackers who prioritize convenience over weight. See the Jetboil Flash Cooking System

  Best Budget Starter Stove and Cookset

3. soto amicus stove cookset combo ($50).

If you’re starting from scratch and looking for a lightweight, affordable setup, it’s hard to go wrong with the Soto Amicus Stove and Cookset. For the same price as the MSR PocketRocket 2 above, you get a comparable stove and two pots, which is a true steal. And the Soto isn’t far behind the MSR in terms of specs: The PocketRocket 2 wins out in weight (0.3 oz. lighter), while the Amicus features a more compact size, built-in ignitor, and packs a serious punch with 10,200 BTUs. Added up, it’s a great all-around deal and a solid setup for new and budget-minded backpackers alike.

The Soto’s 500- and 1,000-milliliter aluminum pots are nice for boiling water and cooking for up to two people, and the smaller pot plays double duty as a lid and personal mug as well. But while 11.2 ounces for two pots and a stove isn’t heavy per se, the pots themselves aren’t particularly high quality and you could shave a lot of weight by opting for a titanium cookset. If you want to stick with an all-in-one kit, it’s also worth checking out the Optimus Crux Lite Solo System (9.6 oz., $70) and PocketRocket 2 Mini Stove Kit ($105), but the Soto is the clear value winner. Finally, keep in mind that you can also purchase the Amicus stove on its own for $50 (or $45 without the ignitor), but for the same price we’ll gladly take the included pots.  See the Soto Amicus Stove Cookset Combo

A Powerful, Compact Stove for the Alpine

4. msr reactor 1.7l stove system ($290).

The MSR Reactor is the most expensive model on our list by a wide margin, but you won’t find a better stove for boiling water or melting snow in trying conditions. The protective housing, efficient and powerful burner (9,000 BTUs), and stable design make it one of the best stoves we’ve tested for cooking in mountainous areas like Peru, Nepal, and deep in the North Cascades. In fact, on a recent backpacking trip in Patagonia, the Reactor boiled water about four times as quickly as the Jetboil Stash and was significantly more effective in high winds. And while it’s far from ultralight at 1 pound 1 ounce (or 14.9 oz. for the 1L model), the MSR is still competitive among all-in-one systems like the Flash above (13.1 oz.) and MiniMo below (14.6 oz.). 

There’s no denying the Reactor’s dominance, but not everyone will need to spend up for such a powerful design. At $290, it’s significantly more expensive than top performers like the Jetboil Flash ($130) and MiniMo ($170), and unlike many stoves here (including the MiniMo), it cannot simmer. Further, unless you’re in particularly challenging conditions or need the larger pot for melting snow, the 7,000-BTU WindBurner below will be the more fuel-efficient option. And finally, liquid-gas stoves (like the WhisperLite below) are undeniably more reliable at elevation and in the cold, although—we get it—it’s hard to deny the convenience of a canister design (it’s worth noting that 16-oz. canisters resist freezing much better than 8- or 3.9-oz. capacities). All told, for alpinists, mountaineers, and high-altitude trekkers, the Reactor is head and shoulders above the rest. See the MSR Reactor 1.7L Stove System

An All-in-One System with Simmer Control 

5. jetboil minimo cooking system ($170).

Jetboil has become synonymous with all-in-one systems that boil water fast, but the MiniMo has some additional tricks up its sleeve. With an upgraded temperature regulator for impressive simmer control, the MiniMo offers the convenience of the Flash above, but with better cooking functionality that many backcountry travelers seek. In terms of features, the 1-liter cooking pot is wrapped in a neoprene sleeve for safe handling, and its short and stout build offers stability over the flame and doubles as a bowl when your meal is ready to eat. If you like to cook and not just boil water, the MiniMo is a great option. 

At $170, the MiniMo costs significantly more than the Flash, boils water more slowly (4 min. 30 sec. per liter vs. the Flash’s 3 min. 20 sec.), and weighs about an ounce more. That said, the tradeoffs are well worth it for those who cook their own meals and want the added simmer control. You can also opt for a non-integrated system—for example, pair the MSR Pocket Rocket 2 above with a cook pot—but the MiniMo is undeniably more premium, and we love the added wind resistance and stability you get from the all-in-one design. Added up, it’s our top choice for one to two campers looking for an integrated system with simmer control. See the Jetboil MiniMo Cooking System

Best Multi-Fuel Stove for Travel, Altitude, and Cold

6. msr whisperlite universal ($200).

There are many factors that affect the function and efficiency of a backpacking stove, and cold weather is one of the biggest culprits. No style suffers more than a standard canister stove: these designs depressurize in sub-freezing temperatures, which impedes the movement of the fuel to the stove. The best solution for cold-weather campers is a liquid-fuel stove (the integrated pump allows you to regulate the pressure) or a stove with a remote canister that can be inverted. Within this category, our favorite model is the MSR WhisperLite Universal, a time-tested workhorse that has the ability to operate off of both liquid fuel and a remote (read: invertible) canister.

The WhisperLite Universal doesn’t come cheap, but it is the most versatile option here. In mild temperatures, you get a canister stove with excellent flame control in an easy-to-use package. Conditions colder than expected? Simply invert the canister. And in truly frigid weather, liquid fuel is far and away the most reliable choice. Further, with multi-fuel capability (you can put everything from white gas to kerosene or unleaded gasoline in the fuel bottle), the Universal is also our top pick for international travel, when canisters and white gas can be hard to come by. The cherry on top? It’s durable, easy to clean and repair, and decently lightweight. And for a step down in price, you can also opt for the WhisperLite International  ($160), which is compatible with a variety of liquid fuel (but not canisters). See the MSR WhisperLite Universal

Best Alternative-Fuel Stove for Backpacking

7. solo stove lite ($70).

Similar to the Jetboil Flash above, the MSR WindBurner is a great integrated stove solution if your backcountry cooking routine consists mostly of boiling water. We love the windproof design: After lighting the stove and snapping everything into place, the enclosed burner brings water to a boil quickly, even in gusty conditions (this can be a weakness of Jetboil models, which leave more of the stove exposed). In terms of quality, practically everything about this stove—from the honeycomb burner to the lid—is well made and has stood up over time. The price of the WindBurner is steep at $190, but it’s a top-notch backpacking stove overall.

So why is the MSR WindBurner ranked here? The added weather protection is overkill for many summer backpackers, and in our opinion is not worth the $60 increase in price from the Jetboil Flash. Furthermore, the WindBurner takes longer to boil a liter of water than the Flash (it puts out 7,000 BTUs vs. the Jetboil’s 9,000) and does not include a convenient built-in ignitor. But for those traveling to windy regions and expecting a lot of exposure, it’s a premium all-in-one stove that will cost you $100 less than the Reactor above (we also prefer the security of the Windburner’s all-in-one design for precarious situations like portaledges and cramped bivys). Finally, the WindBurner line also includes the Duo and Combo stove systems, which feature larger pots, remote canister attachments (for better cold-weather performance), and the ability to simmer. See the MSR WindBurner Stove System

9. Soto WindMaster Stove ($70)

As we mentioned above, non-integrated canister stoves like the MSR PocketRocket leave more of the flame exposed, which can impact performance in gusty conditions. To help combat this, Soto came up with an interesting solution in their aptly named WindMaster. The key difference lies in the pot support design: Compared to the one-piece MSR, the Soto’s clamp-on arms don’t extend as far upward, allowing the pot to sit closer to the flame. Further, the burner has a concave shape that helps protect it better against strong winds. The Jetboil Flash and MSR WindBurner above still offer improved coverage with their integrated designs, but the WindMaster is considerably cheaper, and many backpackers have reported years of reliability in harsh conditions.

Apart from the improved wind protection, the WindMaster is heavier than the PocketRocket 2 by half an ounce and costs $20 more. However, the Soto has a built-in igniter and offers a more stable, four-prong base for larger pots (ounce-counters can swap in the lighter-weight TriFlex pot support for $10). All in all, you can definitely go lighter and cheaper in this category, but the WindMaster strikes us a nice middle ground between the PocketRocket and bulky/expensive WindBurner above. If you consistently backpack at altitude or in places notorious for wind (Colorado’s Fourteeners, for instance) but still want a system that’s small and compact, the Soto is an excellent pick. See the Soto WindMaster Stove

10. Solo Stove Alcohol Burner ($20)

In the world of ultralight backpacking, alcohol stoves have gained traction as the ultimate minimalist cooking system, thanks to their minimalist build and the ubiquity of denatured alcohol (which can be found at most hardware stores, gas stations, and grocery stores). The Solo Alcohol Burner stays true to the simple tin-can design, but with some modern and convenient features added to the mix. With a durable brass construction and flame regulator, the stove is tough, burns efficiently, and provides more temperature control than other alcohol-burning designs. Moreover, a screw-on lid with rubber gasket allows you to store excess fuel in the stove rather than pouring it back into your container (and inevitably wasting a few drops in the process). Whether you’re an ounce-counting thru-hiker or looking for a solid backup stove, the Solo Alcohol Burner is worth a closer look.

Of course, you’ll need to pair your alcohol stove with a windscreen and pot stand, which could be as simple as a piece of foil and a pile of rocks or as refined as the Solo Stove Lite above, which pairs perfectly with the Solo Alcohol Burner here. Keep in mind that alcohol stoves are decidedly slower than the standard canister and liquid fuel options—it might take upwards of 10 minutes to boil a liter of water. Finally, while the Solo is arguably the go-to alcohol burner for thru-hikers, you can go even lighter with a stove like AntiGravityGear’s Tin Man (made from a recycled soda can), which clocks in at just 0.4 ounces. But the Solo is a better balance of weight and features, and we appreciate its user-friendly and refined build. Finally, remember to do your research before you go, as some wilderness areas have banned alcohol stoves. See the Solo Stove Alcohol Burner

11. OliCamp Ion Stove with Titanium Mug Combo ($85)

The Soto Amicus Stove Cookset Combo above is a great starter kit for penny pinchers, but you can step up your ultralight game with the OliCamp Ion Stove/Titanium Space Saver Mug Combo here. For just 6.1 ounces all-in, you get a titanium stove (ridiculously lightweight at just 1.5 oz.) and a 750-milliliter titanium mug (and lid) that’s shaped to fit around a 1-liter Nalgene or 3.9-ounce propane/isobutane canister. The result is a durable and refined stove system for one that will take up very little space in your pack, making it an ideal choice for UL backpacking, fastpacking, and other weight- and space-conscious activities.

That said, OliCamp’s ultralight combo does have some limitations. For one, its 4-minute 20-second boil time is not particularly fast, and that’s in ideal conditions (we recommend picking up a lightweight windshield to boost efficiency). Second, the 750-milliliter (¾-L) mug isn’t a great fit for two campers, especially if you’re using it as your drinking/eating vessel as well. And finally, if you are using the titanium mug to both heat water and drink, you’ll need to be really careful not to burn your hands and lips. There are always compromises to ultralight gear, but the OliCamp Ion stove and mug combo is nevertheless a big step up in quality from the Soto Amicus above. See the OliCamp Ion Stove with Titanium Mug Combo

12. Snow Peak LiteMax ($60)

As we mentioned above, remote canister stoves allow you to invert your fuel canister in cold weather, which helps maximize performance when the mercury dips. In this category, Korean camping brand Kovea makes an intriguing design in their Spider. For just $65, you get four-season versatility in an impressively light and packable design (the support legs are foldable for easy and compact storage), as well as good flame control and a wide, stable base that can support larger pots and pans. All in all, it’s a well-made and thoughtfully designed stove at a very reasonable price.

One key difference separates the Kovea Spider from the MSR WhisperLite Universal above: multi-fuel compatibility. While the MSR can run on liquid fuel like white gas, auto fuel, or diesel, the Spider only works with propane/isobutane canisters, which tend to suffer at high altitudes and in extreme cold (and if you’re traveling internationally, remember that they aren’t always readily available). In the end, the WhisperLite Universal above is the most versatile of the bunch and our preferred remote canister design, but the Kovea is over 5 ounces lighter and will save you over $100. If you don’t anticipate needing to use other types of fuel, that’s a no-brainer. See the Kovea Spider

14. Jetboil Stash Cooking System ($150)

Jetboil’s Stash is their lightest stove system yet. At just 7.1 ounces all-in for the canister stove (2.1 oz.) and 0.8-liter aluminum pot (5 oz.), it’s a whopping 40% lighter than the next-in-line Zip. And with a nesting design, you can fit the stove, stand, and a 100-gram fuel canister into the pot for a nice, compact package. Unlike most Jetboil systems, the Stash does not have a heat exchanger on the stove side (read: less efficiency and wind resistance compared to integrated designs), but the pot’s FluxRing is a nice compromise and keeps the boil time decently fast (2.5 min. for 0.5L).

However, we run into some roadblocks when asking, “Who should buy the Stash?” Sure, it’s a nice combo set for those starting from scratch, but at $150, it’s triple the cost of the Amicus Stove Cookset Combo above (and unlike the Amicus, the Stash doesn’t simmer). Further, true ounce counters can go lighter by pairing a simple stove like the SnowPeak Lite Max (2 oz.) or Soto WindMaster (3 oz.) with a titanium pot. Finally, the Stash’s output doesn’t quite live up to Jetboil’s reputation with only 4,500 BTUs (compared to the Flash’s 9,500)—on a recent backpacking trip in Patagonia, our friends’ MSR Reactor boiled water about four times as fast. We’re admittedly being hard on the Stash, but nevertheless recommend saving your cash and sticking with some of the options higher on the list.  See the Jetboil Stash Cooking System

15. BRS 3000T ($17)

At a double-take-worthy price of $17, the BRS 3000T doesn’t inspire a lot of confidence, but its performance stacks up surprisingly well to standalone stoves from MSR, Snow Peak, Soto, and others. The generic design—we’ve seen very similar models under the name Icetek Sports—doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel, but it does offer decent flame control and performance for casual backpackers. The stove functions in a similar way to the MSR PocketRocket above, running on isobutane/propane canisters, and includes folding pot supports and an easy-to-use control valve (note: you don’t get push-button ignition).

At such a low cost, there are a few letdowns in the build. For one, the stove doesn’t burn nearly as efficiently as the PocketRocket, WindMaster, or LiteMax, so you will go through a fuel canister in a shorter amount of time (this can add up, particularly on longer trips.) Moreover, the stove doesn’t do well in the wind and will take longer to boil at full power, and it’s noticeably flimsier and less durable than the pricier canister options on our list. But if you set reasonable expectations, the BRS 3000T is an intriguing budget option nevertheless.  See the BRS 3000T

16. Esbit Pocket Stove ($16)

But canister stoves do have their downsides. For one, they often suffer in cold weather, especially when compared to white gas models. Remote canister designs are a step up, but liquid gas is far and away the most reliable option. Second, the metal canister itself is fairly heavy and bulky, which can become an issue if you need to carry a lot of fuel for extended backcountry travel. If you’re cooking two meals a day for a week or two—not just boiling water, but cooking meals—a liquid-fuel stove is a better option. Third, isobutane/propane canisters don’t refill easily, which results in a great deal of waste. And finally, isobutane/propane canisters aren’t always easy to track down overseas, and you certainly can’t fly with them. For more, see our sections on used isobutane/propane canisters and traveling internationally  below.

Liquid and Multi-Fuel Stoves Stoves that are set up to run on liquid fuel, like the ubiquitous MSR WhisperLite , have a fuel line that connects to a separate refillable bottle. Most liquid-fuel stoves run on white gas, although there are a number of models that can use multiple fuel types, including kerosene and unleaded gas (the MSR WhisperLite Universal/International and XGK EX are a few examples). If you’re traveling overseas, these versatile designs are your best bet. Liquid gas (namely white gas) burns hotter than isobutane/propane, so the stoves offer better performance in cold weather and at altitude. Furthermore, white gas is a far better fuel choice for longer trips, as you can bring more with less bulk, and even store your backup supply in a lightweight plastic bottle (just don’t mistake it for water!). But perhaps our favorite thing about liquid fuel is the way that it cuts down on waste—you can purchase it in bulk and reuse the same fuel bottle over and over again.

For short trips, we still prefer stoves that run on isobutane/propane over liquid fuel models for their lightweight, compact builds and remarkable convenience. Liquid fuel stoves are slower to set up and use, and you’ll need to pump the bottle every few minutes to maintain pressure (especially when it’s less than full). These stoves are also usually bulkier, heavier, and more expensive than their canister alternatives. All in all, if your trips extend past the length of a week (without resupply), are outside of the United States, or venture into cold or high-altitude environments, we recommend a liquid fuel stove. For all other backpacking needs, a canister stove is still our cook set-up of choice. Alcohol Stoves Stoves that run on denatured alcohol are popular among ultralight and thru-hiking communities, preferred for their affordable price, lightweight construction, and simplicity. The most basic design can be made by punching holes along the rim of a tuna fish or cut-off soda can, and more complex stoves offer features such as simmer control, an integrated windscreen, or a pot stand (like the Solo Stove Alcohol Burner  and accessories). Alcohol stoves can’t compete with the liquid or canister stoves above in terms of efficiency, heat output, or flame control, but they do take the cake for simplicity and overall weight. And perhaps one of the biggest selling points of an alcohol stove is the ease of acquiring fuel, especially at hardware stores or gas stations in small resupply towns.

However, the tall and skinny pot size, small diameter burner (making it difficult to substitute a different pot), and lack of simmering capabilities mean that integrated stove systems are often one-trick ponies, used primarily as a means to boil water for dehydrated meals and hot drinks. Jetboil's MiniMo is a notable exception here, with the ability to simmer and a short and stout pot for convenient cooking. If you want to make gourmet feasts, look below at the non-integrated stove systems. But for the trend toward dehydrated meals over backcountry cooking, all-in-one systems offer the best in stability, convenience, and wind resistance. Plus, with a built-in handle and insulated cozy that easily turn the pot into a mug, they are the most streamlined and user-friendly systems available.

Non-Integrated Stoves On the other hand, a non-integrated stove functions as two separate units: the fuel source and stove are at the bottom and a pot or frying pan is then perched on top. These stoves don’t include the heat exchanger of an all-in-one system and are generally less stable and less efficient. Further, the flame is more exposed to the wind, so it’s a good idea to use a windscreen (like this one from MSR ) in most cases to keep the stove functioning effectively (this is particularly true for fuel types like alcohol, wood, and tablets that don’t burn as hot). These set-ups also lack the convenience of the systems above, and you’ll need to purchase your cookset separately.

But non-integrated stoves are not without their benefits. Most notably, they offer a great deal of versatility. You can swap out your pot for one of a different size (or even a frying pan), simmer a meal over the flame, and use white gas for better functionality in the cold or at higher elevations. Additionally, non-integrated stoves are often lighter and more affordable than those of the integrated variety (provided you choose a lightweight cookset). We think of these stove systems as an excellent choice for backpackers who like to cook over the flame and don’t need a particularly windproof set-up. Those of the ultralight persuasion can cut weight by combining a screw-on canister stove (like the Snow Peak LiteMax ) or alternative-fuel stove with a lightweight pot.

Like most backpacking gear, weight is an important consideration when choosing a stove. Before we start in on the specifics, it’s important to note that weight is rather difficult to compare among backpacking stoves, as you need to consider your type of fuel and amount needed, in addition to whether or not you’ll be adding the weight of a cookset. For each stove on our list, we’ve listed the bare bones weight, which does not include the isobutane/propane canister or liquid-fuel bottle, fuel pump (if required), or additional pots. Another exception are integrated systems like the MSR WindBurner , which factors its pot into the weight.

In general, you can expect alternative-fuel stoves to be the lightest options, and liquid-fuel stoves to be the heaviest. Canister stoves—especially non-integrated canisters models like the 2-ounce Snow Peak LiteMax—are truly a happy medium in terms of weight. In choosing the right system for you, it comes down to priorities: you’ll nearly always be sacrificing something—convenience, speed, durability, cold-weather performance, etc.—when you shave ounces. That said, every model here on our list is what we consider light and packable enough for backpacking. Even a relatively heavy design like the 1-pound-2-ounce MSR Reactor 1.7L  is still reasonable and well worth its weight at high elevations or in the extreme cold.

From a quick glance at our table above, you’ll see that boil times vary dramatically between models, ranging from around 2-3 minutes per liter of water to 10+ for wood-burning and alcohol stoves. In general, the numbers correlate very closely with the type of fuel: as we mentioned, integrated canister stoves are very efficient heaters with their all-in-one designs, while non-integrated canister models leave more of the flame exposed but still typically hover in the 3- to 5-minute range. Multi-fuel options like the MSR WhisperLite Universal and XGK EX are also pretty efficient, although boil time varies depending on which type of fuel you’re using (for example, kerosene takes considerably longer to boil than white gas). And at the extremely slow end of the spectrum are designs like the wood-burning Solo Stove Lite , Solo Stove Alcohol Burner, and Esbit Pocket Stove tablets.

All that said, these times were measured in laboratory settings with no wind or adverse conditions, both of which can significantly impact boiling speed. In other words, while the MSR WindBurner has a fairly middling advertised boil time of 4.5 minutes, it may beat the Jetboil Flash—which boasts a boil time of around 3.5 minutes per liter but has more of the stove exposed—in blustery weather. And again, at high altitudes or in extreme cold, propane/isobutane canisters can stop working entirely. Other factors to consider are pot support height, the amount of flame protection, windscreen coverage, etc. In the end, it’s important to consider your objectives and what kind of performance you need. If you backpack exclusively in fair weather, a non-integrated canister stove or alternative-fuel option is a viable choice. If you get out year-round and especially at altitude, a remote canister stove (especially a multi-fuel option) will be more reliable, regardless of the advertised times.

Finally, it’s important to point out that performance isn’t solely dependent on how fast your stove is able to boil water, but also how much fuel it takes to do so. For most backpackers, boil time and efficiency are equally important considerations. After all, if your stove can boil water in 2 minutes but blows through an entire canister very quickly, it’s not all that impressive. Thru-hikers in particular can save considerable weight by carrying less fuel, so efficiency can majorly impact a final decision. In general, manufacturers publish this number alongside boil times (often referred to as burn time), which indicates how long the stove will go through a given amount of fuel. But again, remember that these tests were done in a lab and will likely vary in the field. For a more in-depth breakdown, MSR has an excellent article on boil times and stove performance here . 

BTUs, or British Thermal Units, measure heat output and help indicate how powerful a stove is. More specifically, it’s the amount of energy required to heat 1 pound of water by 1 degree Fahrenheit. To be clear, this isn’t the sole indicator of power (factors like burner size can also have an impact), but it a helpful spec in comparing models. In general, more BTUs will produce a stronger flame, which will allow you to cook more food faster. For example, the difference between MSR’s Reactor (9,000 BTUs) and WindBurner (7,000 BTUs) will be noticeable (as we mentioned, the Reactor is a great option for melting large amounts of snow quickly). On the flip side, that extra output comes with greater fuel consumption, meaning that the Reactor will burn through fuel quicker than the WindBurner. Most stove manufacturers publish BTUs alongside boil time, weight, and other specifications, but again, this number is just one part of the performance equation.

Those that plan to do more than just boil water will want a stove with quality flame control. Most canister and liquid fuel models have a twist valve to adjust the height of the flame, but a built-in regulator or advanced valve system is what truly improves a stove’s ability to simmer. Some stoves that simmer well include MSR’s WhisperLite Universal and PocketRocket 2, as well as the Jetboil MiniMo . On the other hand, basic liquid-fuel stoves (like the standard WhisperLite) and all-in-one systems like the Jetboil Flash typically don’t have the ability to run smoothly at low heat, although you can usually keep a small flame going with skillful regulation of the fuel valve (i.e., a whole lot of babysitting).

As we’ve touched on throughout this article, backpacking stoves and wind don’t get along. Strong winds can quickly put out your flame, and re-igniting your stove can be a major hassle in gusty conditions. For the best performance in blustery weather, all-in-one systems are far and away the best choice. The MSR WindBurner , for example, leaves very little of the stove exposed to the elements. Non-integrated stoves, on the other hand, typically will require the purchase of a separate windscreen or set-up in a well-protected area at camp. Alcohol and wood-burning stoves fall at the bottom of the pack in terms of wind resistance, and it might take some practice and patience to get an even and consistent flame. If you backpack in consistently windy conditions—think above-treeline locations like Fourteeners in Colorado or the High Sierra—consider whether or not you need added protection before heading out.

If you have a screw-on or other detached stove and want to invest in a windscreen, we love this MSR model . At $20 and 2 ounces all in (to make it even lighter, we leave the bottom portion behind and only bring the wraparound sleeve), this simple piece of lightweight aluminum protects your otherwise exposed flame from the wind. In practice, the metal reflects heat to help warm your pot quicker, and less wind keeps the flame centered under the pot for better efficiency. The metal is thin and malleable so that it’s easy to get into place, and we think it’s worth carrying even when backpacking in moderate wind.

Interestingly, fuel reacts similarly to both cold weather and high altitude. For traveling in these conditions, we strongly recommend a liquid-fuel stove. White gas and other liquid fuels operate better in the cold, and you can regulate the dropping pressure with the fuel pump. Conversely, canisters often depressurize in the cold or at elevation, and freezing temperatures can keep the gas from moving from the canister to the stove. If you want to stick with a canister stove, you can hedge your bets with a remote design like the MSR WhisperLite Universal, which allows you to invert the canister for better fuel flow to the stove. If you don't have a remote design, you can tack on an adapter (like the MSR LowDown Remote Stove Adapter )—or opt for a 16-ounce canister (rather than smaller 8- or 3.9-oz. varieties) and keep your fuel warm by wrapping it in a layer during use. 

Even with a liquid-fuel stove, there’s not much you can do to speed up cook times at high altitudes. Here, you’re dealing with two contributing factors: first, water evaporates faster at higher elevations, and second, water has a lower boiling point. This means that you’ll need to boil more water, and—importantly for dehydrated food eaters—your meals will take longer to cook because of the lower water temperature. In general, you’ll start to notice this slowing down around 5,000 feet, with the boiling point dropping roughly 5 degrees Fahrenheit every 2,500 feet.  

You’ll often see canister-style stoves with a built-in starter, referred to as a push-button or Piezo igniter. With a simple push of a button (after loosening the fuel control valve), an electric spark lights your stove. This handy tool does add a tiny bit of weight and can have a small impact on a stove’s packed size, but the convenience factor is significant for some backpackers.

What are the pros and cons of a built-in igniter? Piezo lighters save time and are particularly helpful in windy conditions when a match could easily be blown out. On the downside, if they do fail (and many have been known to stop working over time), you have a useless protrusion stuck to the side of your otherwise fully functioning stove. Should this happen, however, you can continue to light the stove the old-fashioned way. No matter what, we always suggest bringing some backup matches or a lighter for the just-in-case.  

One of the primary downsides to canister stoves are the canisters themselves—they don’t refill easily like liquid-gas canisters do, and they’re not super convenient to recycle. However, both of these challenges can be solved. The first thing to note is that affordable fuel-transfer devices exist. The FlipFuel , for example, allows you to consolidate half-used canisters for just $35 and a couple ounces. This is a really helpful tool especially for backcountry-goers, who would much rather carry one full canister rather than two half-full canisters. FlipFuel is the most common name-brand device, but cheaper varieties can also be found through retailers like Amazon.

Even if you’ve consolidated your fuel canisters, you’ll still have the issue of how to dispose of the empties. MSR has a thorough article on this topic , but the long and short is that they can be recycled. You’ll want to make sure you empty your canister all the way, and then puncture it with a screwdriver, ice axe, or similar tool (to meet recycling requirements). Then, take it to a local recycling center that accepts mixed metals—most curbside bin services do not. It’s worth checking with your local gear shop too—the gear consignment shop in our small community has a drop-off bin for empty canisters.  

A stove is just one part of your backcountry cookset, and unless you get an all-in-one design like the Jetboil models above or MSR WindBurner, you’ll likely need to purchase a pot separately. Stainless steel, aluminum, and titanium are the three most common materials in camping cookware. Stainless steel pots are the most affordable and durable—a great choice for heavy use—but they’re fairly hefty and don’t conduct heat particularly well (leading to hot spots where the pot is closest to the burner). Titanium is incredibly lightweight and decently strong, but like steel it’s not a great conductor (we recommend it for ultralight-minded hikers who predominantly use their stove to boil water). Finally, hard-anodized aluminum is perhaps the most well-rounded choice for most users: It conducts heat well, is relatively lightweight, and won’t cost you an arm and a leg. What’s more, hard-anodized aluminum pots generally come with a non-stick finish, making them the best bet for those who plan to cook over a flame.

Two of our favorites pots are the aluminum GSI Outdoors Halulite Boiler Pot ($40 and 8.6 oz.) and MSR’s titanium Titan Kettle ($70 and 4.2 oz.). If you want a full-on luxury setup, GSI’s Bugaboo Base Camper Cookset includes 3- and 5-liter pots and a 9-inch frying pan. Another option is purchasing pre-packaged cooksets like the Soto Amicus Stove and Cookset combo ($50) or MSR PocketRocket 2 Mini Stove Kit ($105), which are a convenient option for those just getting started and come with the benefit of a nesting design (you can fit the stove and small isobutane/propane canister in the pot for easy packing). But if your main goal is cutting weight, a canister stove like the PocketRocket or alternative-fuel option and titanium pot may be the best way to go.

In addition to a pot, there are a few other components to think about. One is cutlery, with options ranging from a set with a spoon, fork, and knife to a lightweight spork like the Humangear GoBites Uno ($3.50 and 0.5 oz.) that gets the job done for pretty much any meal. There are also a wide range of plates and bowl options, ranging from titanium to aluminum, silicone, and more. A choice here will ultimately come down to preferences on weight, packability, and price. Finally, there are a number of add-ons like coffee presses, tea filters, and other accessories for backpackers who like to enjoy a beverage with breakfast. We’ve used the WindBurner Coffee Press  with our stove for years and like how well it integrates with the rest of the system.

Traveling Internationally with a Stove

Whether it’s backpacking across Europe or cycling through South America, a reliable stove that can run on fuel that’s readily available locally is an absolute must. White gas and isobutane/propane canisters are not sold everywhere, but multi-fuel stoves can run on almost every type of fuel you might find throughout the world, including kerosene and unleaded gasoline. Our favorites include a few proven options from MSR: the WhisperLite International and Universal, and the XGK EX.

It’s always a good idea to research what types of fuel are most common at your destination. Due to airline restrictions, you cannot carry any fuel on the plane with you, whether in your checked bags or your carry-ons. Some travelers have even run into issues with dirty or used fuel lines creating some security delays at the airport. It’s our recommendation when researching to dig a little deeper than a basic guidebook. Don’t be satisfied knowing that the destination country has the fuel available, but get to know (as best you can) how readily available it is and how often can you refill during your travels. And as a final recommendation, make sure to be familiar with the quirks of your stove before heading out. Unleaded fuel will burn a lot dirtier than white gas or a canister, so make sure you’re savvy in how to quickly clean the fuel lines. Back to Our Top Backpacking Stove Picks   Back to Our Backpacking Stove Comparison Table

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8 Best Electric Travel Cooker in 2023

Cooking meals during travel is interesting.

It can be problematic too especially when you don’t have the right cooker with you.

Electric travel cookers were introduced to the market to solve your cooking problems when you go outside. So, having one of them is a must when you don’t want to ruin your diet eating outside!

An electric rice cooker is a handy tool for camping and traveling to make your outdoor adventures much hassle-free. This article will show you some of the best electric travel cookers that can take your cooking experience to the next level.

Keep reading to find out your suitable one before you sail for your next trip.

Table of Contents

Importance of an Electric Travel Cooker

Electric cookers were made targeting travelers who look for an easy cooking solution.

One of the first things that will come to your mind before traveling is what you would eat during an outing. It becomes the primary thinking when you travel or camping for multiple days.

You don’t have the luxury to enjoy ready-made food all the time when you are on an outing for a longer period. Cooking is the only option you are left with at that time.

A mini electric rice cooker for traveling can spare you from this problem. Offering multiple functions and easy operation, it can prepare your food and snacks in no time. Most of them come with a compact design. You can easily carry them anywhere.

Also Read: A list of My Favorite Dishwasher Safe Travel Mug for Coffee.

Top 8 Best Electric Cooker for Travelling

Some of the best electric cookers for traveling are listed here. Have a look-

1. DCIGNA 1.2L Mini Travel Rice Cooker & Electric Lunch Box

DCIGNA comes with this mini rice cooker for traveling that provides multiple functions like cooking food, rice, stews, soup, etc. Cooking oatmeal and grains are also super easy with this electric lunch box. Taking such an item on your next travel can reduce the hardship of cooking meals outside.

Material and Design

The item dimension is 6.8 x 6.8 x 7. 9 inches. Available in white and pink color, it is stylish and beautiful. It contains a dishwasher-safe steam pan and pot. Due to the lid liner, cleaning this cooker is pretty simple. It also has a measuring cup for rice and rice paddle.

The compact design makes it suitable to carry inside your travel bag easily. The handle enables it to hold the cooker comfortably and take it with you. The cooking time is less than 30 minutes, making it more convenient for quickly preparing your meal. You can also cook soup, grains, and stews with this multi-functional rice cooker.

Compatibility

The running mechanism of this rice cooker is simple. All you have to do is just place the ingredients inside the bowl and turn the switch on. It will automatically cook the rice and grains quickly. You would have lots of time to prepare other food items.

It weighs only 2.65 pounds thereby, carrying it is easier almost anywhere. You don’t have to worry about boiling water. Setting the timer by temperature adjustment will do the work and move to warm automatically once the cooking is over. This one-touch mechanism makes it beneficial to cook everything with it.

Things I Appreciate

• Beautiful design
• Easy running mechanism
• Automatic function
• Lightweight
• Multiple functions
• No shut off button.

2. WHITE TIGER Portable Travel Small 1.0L Mini Rice Cooker

White Tiger brand launched this product in April 2019. Since then, it has gained wide-scale popularity especially, among travelers around the world. Providing many unique features, this is becoming a handy travel gear for outdoor enthusiasts. Providing durability and quality, this could be your go-to-go portable cooker for traveling.

Premium aluminum makes this white-colored mini rice cooker durable, sturdy, and long-lasting. It takes only 15 minutes to cook. The cooking capacity is one liter and suitable for one to two persons. If you are having a busy working day or going out with your spouse, this cooker may save a lot of your valuable time.

It runs with 110 Volt and is easy to use in many places. The package comes with many things like a rice scoop, a measuring cup, a non-stick pan liner, and a manual. The item dimension is 6.5 x 6.3 x 8.1 inches and it weighs only 2.55 pounds. So, it is super easy to carry.

It will make your cooking process very easy with its simple mechanism. You can cook multiple items in it including soup, oatmeal, stews, or any dessert. Coming with a warm function and light indicator to save your food from overheating and overcooking.

It also contains a part of heat dissipation at the bottom to protect it from getting an excessive temperature. This feature gives this product a longer lifespan. Due to the non-stick coating inside, cleaning this cooker is pretty easy.

• Gorgeous color
• Auto warm function
• Quick-cooking
• Simple mechanism
• Non-sticky coating
• Leaks and spills out of the vent holes sometimes.

3. TopWit Electric Hot Pot Mini Electric Kettle

Thanks to the TopWit store for producing this beautiful electric kettle. It contains multiple functions for cooking items like soup, noodles, eggs, and stew. Having unique design and durability, this is a popular mini-multi cooker for travelers.

This cooker is perfect for steaming, boiling water, cooking snacks like noodles, pasta, eggs, and boiling soups. This characteristic makes it a practical and multi-functional cooking hot pot. You can use it inside your house as well as for traveling, camping, or outdoor adventure.

This hot pot has a dimension of 5.8 x 5.2 x 8.8 inches and a capacity of 1.2-liters. Coming with a dual power supply, it is suitable for both 200 Watt and 600 Watt. You can adjust according to your wish.

Weighing only 2.42 pounds, you can easily carry it around anywhere. The interior surface contains premium stainless steel. The exterior is smooth with a glass cover. Having a double-coated design, you can touch it with your hand without any fear of burning.

It contains a separate structure design so that you can put the pot in any direction at your convenience. The cleaning process is also easy due to this feature. It comes with 360 degrees rotation capacity, thereby wrapping the power cord is simple. The overheat and boil-dry protection will make sure that you cook safely and the hot pot also remains durable.

• Good Capacity
• Versatile and practical
• Smooth exterior
• 360-degree rotation
• No auto shut-off feature.

4. Dezin 1.5L Mini Electric Hot Pot for Steak & Rapid Noodles Cooker

Dezin comes with this stylish and splendid electric hot pot that will take your traveling experience to the next level. This multi-functional electric hot pot will help you cook several items. Requiring less voltage, you can use this almost anywhere. People, especially travelers love this model very much due to its high capacity and usability.

The whole product is environmentally friendly. Like other previous models, it also contains boil, dry and overheating protection. It works with 110 volts with a capacity of 1.5 liters. Seafoam green color will give a stylish look.

You will get a spatula and egg reck in addition to the package. You can prepare chicken steak, noodles, and eggs apart from rice with this hot pot. This material is popular, especially for health-conscious people. The non-sticky surface material will help you achieve that by consuming less oil.

Made with non-stick material, this electric hot pot keeps your food clean. You can cook it without a stove, especially on an outing. It will make cooking safe and toxin-free, no matter how high the setting is. It comes with two dual power adjustments, 150 Watt and 600 Watt. You can adjust according to your convenience. 600 Watt is the maximum heating capacity for cooking food faster.

The compact design enables it to store anywhere easily. The capacity is suitable for one or two persons. Cleaning it after cooking is also super easy. If you want to go on a trip or a picnic with your family, friend or spouse, this is a suitable choice for you. The stylish design also enables it to pick it as a gift material for any occasion. Weighing 2.88 pounds, it is lightweight and you can carry it easily anywhere.

• Environmentally friendly
• Good capacity
• Non-sticky surface
• The pot is not stable.

5. TopWit 1.2 Liter Electric Hot Pot Mini Noodles Cooker

This model is another amazing product from the TopWit store. TopWit products are known for their unique design. This one is also not the exception. It comes with a gorgeous black color, high capacity, and durability. It has gained wide-scale popularity among customers from different parts of the world. Being a highly rated product on this list, it will provide much safety, flexibility, along with boil-dry protection.

Premium stainless steel makes this black-colored electric cooker look unique to attract people. It has a capacity of 1.2 liters with 600 Watts. It also comes with a dual power capacity with the lowest of 200 Watt. You can adjust according to your convenience.

It has a 360-degree rotating base. You can wrap the power cord accordingly. It ensures high safety while you are cooking your meal. Offering boil-dry and overheating protection, it ensures durability and safety. The product dimension is 5.8 x 5.2 x 8.8 inches. Due to the compact design, it is easily portable anywhere as per your suitability.

This cooker has multiple using options like steaming, cooking noodles, pasta, boiling water, soups, and much more. You can use it as a kitchen material for daily cooking and also use it while traveling, camping, or any outdoor adventure.

The exterior is soft, smooth and the interior has food-grade material with a glass cover. The wall is double layered. The handle ensures that you can hold it without the fear of burning your hands. Due to the detachable design, you can place the pot easily in any direction as per your suitability. This mechanism makes the cleaning procedure easy too.

• Premium material
• Dual power capacity
• Safe and smooth running
• Multiple cooking options
• Detachable design
• The cord is short.

6. Joyfulsky 1.5L 304 Stainless Steel Electric Hot Pot with Steamer

This travel-friendly electric hot pot is another unique model from the Joyfulski brand. They first bought it in February 2019. Since then, it gained credibility among the users. Being easily portable, this could be the perfect portable cooker for traveling that you are searching for.

Premium stainless steel made this blue-colored mini cooker a durable and long-lasting one. Coming with a dimension of 9.25 x 7.09 x 9.84 inches, the overall item weighs 4.14 pounds. Carrying it anywhere is super easy. You can take it during your journey or any outdoor adventure.

It works with 110 voltage and 600 Watts. The 304 stainless steel body makes it a perfect choice if you want a durable product. It is healthy, environmentally friendly, and comes with anti-corrosion material. You can separate the body from its base when needed. Due to this making, the cleaning process is also easy.

The automatic operation mode enables it to run everything smoothly. Like other models, it also has a dual power capacity, 600 Watts for boiling and 200 Watts for keeping warm. You can use any settings at your convenience. The limited power capacity will ensure that the power-off function works properly.

The outside body with the handles is comfortable PP material. It protects from any burning threat and overheating. The power will go off automatically if no water is there in the boiling time to ensure protection and durability.

This product comes with multiple cooking options like noodles, soup, meatballs, oatmeal, eggs, etc. Cleaning it is also easy with vinegar and water mixing with a soft piece of cloth.

• Durable and long-lasting
• Anti-corrosion material
• Environmentally friendly 
• Power off function
• Easy cleaning
• A spot may appear at the bottom after using.

7. TLOG 1.2L Portable Mini Rice Cooker & Small Food Steamer

If you are looking for a stylish travel rice cooker, then this is the perfect choice for you. Coming with a simple design and excellent color combination, it will give a new look to your travel gear collection. It offers you to cook multiple items and spare you from the hassles of cooking during traveling.

This unique green-designed mini–rice cooker is made with pure aluminum, making it a durable product, with a capacity of 1.2 liters. You can use this as your home kitchen material, in the office, for camping, or any outdoor adventure. This model is suitable for a small family and ensures the required amount of food you need.

The dimensions of the cooker are 8 x 7 x 9 inches. The package comes with a nonstick pot, a rice measuring cup, spoon, tray, and power cord. And the power cord is removable here for your convenience. This cooker is free of other harmful materials like lead, cadmium PFOA, and is also environmentally friendly. If you are looking for a BPA-free, food-grade  small-size rice cooker , then this is the go-to go item for you.

The using mechanism is also simple with single button control. It also has some amazing features like LED indicator light, half a day delay timer, and an automatic switch to keep your food warm for 10 hours. These facilities make it a preferable choice. The compact size makes it easier to hold it comfortably. It does not take extra space.

You can carry it anywhere around easily. Even if you have a small kitchen, it will not take much space. You will have options to keep other items. The inner side is a non-stick material coating that enables you to clean it comfortably. You will have two separate cup capacities that can increase up to four.

You can cook rice, pasta, soup, oatmeal, grains, and vegetables at the same time. The weight is only two pounds, carrying it is very easy.

• Nonstick pot
• Delay timer
• Automatic switch
• Compact size
• Dual cup capacity
• Short AC cable.

8. Topwit Electric Hot Pot Mini Multifunctional Electric Cooker

This model is another excellent item from the TopWit store. I could not end my list without mentioning this item. Since its launch in June 2020, it has become popular and gained many positive reviews from consumers. Offering multiple cooking item opportunities, this could be your great travel gear. Being well designed and stylish, you will find a lot of flexibility and options to cook.

The dimension is 8.74 x 8.19 x 7.56 inches. This model has a double power setting of 200 Watt and 600 Watt. You can use it conveniently as per the one you need. You can use 200 Watt for making soup, oatmeal, and eggs. Cooking noodles and pasta will require you to switch the power to 600 Watt. In this setting, water will boil faster and it has a capacity of 1.6 liters.

The interior is 304 food-grade stainless steel with a thick glass cover. This setting will protect your food from contamination. The exterior has a double-wall design. You can hold it with your hand without the fear of burning. This stylish mini-size cooker is easy to store due to its compact design.

If you are searching for replacing your common kitchen gadget with a more portable one, you can go for this model. It will perfectly suit any occasion and make your lunch quickly. During traveling and camping, taking such an item will give you a lot of pleasure by cooking your meal easily.

You can also make it as a gift material to your near and dear ones. It contains overheat and boil-dry protection. Plus, it has an automatic off function, and when the temperature goes beyond the level or the water finishes. The weight being 2.51 pounds, it is easy to use and thus portable enough.

• High capacity
• Dual power setting
• Take less space
• Overheat protection
• Short power cord.

Things to Know Before Buying an Electric Cooker

Following things are important to check before buying an electric travel cooker:

Building material is crucial to ensure the durability of the product. Cookers made with stainless steel are usually safe to use and long-lasting at the same time.

Check whether the handle can resist heat and provide a safe grip or not. This will prevent your hand from burning and ensure due safety while cooking.

Warm Function

The automatic warm function is a necessary feature of such a cooker. It will keep your food especially rice warm for several hours offering fluffy rice.

Not all electric cooker is travel-friendly if it is heavy. You need to choose the one that is portable and lightweight. Otherwise, it will be a hassle carrying it from one place to another.

FAQs about Electric Travel Cooker

No specific requirement is there, but ¼ cup should be the least amount. ½ cup is preferable.

Many of the cookers do. But my preferences don’t leak water onto the counter during cooking.

Yes, they have. You need to place the hot pot on the heating base for cooking.

They are unlikely to get rusted due to the high-quality stainless-steel cover.

I tried to enlighten you about some of the best electric travel cookers that can bring significant comfort to your cooking experience. Choose the one suitable for your requirements and make easy and smooth cooking on your next outdoor adventure trip.

You May Also Like:

How to Pick A Perfect Coffee Maker for Travel Mugs from Keurig Brand.

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The Best Backpacking Cooking Gear for a Lightweight Journey That’s Heavy on Adventure

It can sometimes feel like we have to carry the world in our backpacks just to be able to explore the natural world comfortably, safely and sustainably. You know what I’m talking about if you’ve ever been stuck lugging backpacking gear that was too bulky. The thing about relying on nature for everything is that nature doesn’t come with a kitchen. That means bringing along backpacking cooking gear to ensure that you’ll be able to safely prepare and eat food that will supply you with energy on the trails.

I’ve learned a lot about finding the right ultralight backpacking cooking gear after making all the wrong moves on my earliest wilderness treks. I’ve put together a list of some of the best strategies and products that have helped me to enjoy much lighter loads that still provide everything I need. Let’s cover the best outdoor cooking gear if you’re looking for an ultralight configuration in your pack that won’t leave you hanging at mealtime.

Quick Navigation

Types of backpacking cooking stoves.

• Best for Weight and Ease of Use
• Best Cooking System
• Best Budget Option
• Best Wood Burning Backpacking Stove
• Good Value for the Money
• Best Multi-fuel
• Titanium Cookware
• Aluminum Cookware
• Stainless Steel

Backpacking Pot vs Cookset

Best backpacking cooking pots and sets, backpacking mugs, backpacking bowls, backpacking utensils, backpacking food storage.

*Disclosure: I only recommend products that I would use myself. This post may contain affiliate links that may earn me a small commission at no additional cost to you. Read the full advertising policy here .*

Backpacking Cooking Stoves

I have to start with backpacking stoves because your stove is simply your most important piece of gear for meal prep out there in the wild. The two main factors to look at are weight and cooking style. I think this is where it’s worth making the investment because a hearty, properly cooked meal can be everything after a long day on the trails. However, I can assure you that you’ll find some nice budget options if you aren’t looking to drop a ton on a stove.

We’re looking at five possible types of cooking stoves. They are white gas, canister, denatured alcohol, wood and solid fuel stoves. I personally consider everything other than gas to be a bit fringe or specialty. That’s why I’ll mostly be covering gas stoves in my reviews of what I think are the best performers.

Best Backpacking Stoves

I’ve narrowed down my list of the best performers that I think deserve to be considered for your backpacking cooking gear setup. I’m categorizing them based on considerations like weight, ease of use and budget because I know that everyone has their own priorities. At the end of the day, each backpacking stove on my list will do its job out there in the wilderness.

Best for Weight and Ease of Use: MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe

Weight: 2.9 ounces

The MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe earns my title for the best all-around pick because it features a pressure regulator that works for all-condition environments for faster boiling times even when you’re backpacking in cold weather. This stove also comes with a push-start piezo igniter and burner head that deliver impressive heat distribution. The last thing I’ll say about this ultralight stove is that its broad burner and wind-blocking burner lip are nice choices because they improve wind resistance.

Best Cooking System: Jetboil Flash Cooking System

Weight: 3.1 ounces

With this ultralight design, the pot and burner form one unit that simply requires a gas canister. It’s a top pick if you’re looking for something light and efficient. It dazzles by breaking records to boil water in just 100 seconds. I’ll also say that the setup of the Jetboil Flash Cooking System is as nice as its performance. Touches like an ultra-reliable push-button igniter and color-change heat indicator make this an intuitive tool that requires zero fumbling around. The system’s 1-liter FluxRing cooking cup with added insulation makes it a perfect fit for coffee or soup.

Best Budget Option: BRS-3000T Ultra-Light Canister Stove

Weight: 25 grams

This one makes the list because it offers a design that’s light and cheap while still offering quality performance. In fact, the lightness of this stove alone makes it a top pick if you’re willing to give up some features in exchange for that extra room in your pack. I’m pretty sure it’s actually the lightest stove of its kind on the market. Using a very stable flame, the BRS-3000T gets water to a boil in just a hair under three minutes. The only downside to this stove is that you’re not going to get away with sharing it between two people the way you can with the other options covered on my list.

Best Wood Burning Backpacking Stove: Solo Stove Lite Stove

Weight: 9 ounces

With this stainless-steel stove, you’re always just a few twigs away from getting some hot food in your stomach. I had to include this stove as an eco-friendly option that’s good for the planet while also saving you from the hassle of ever having to buy fuel again. This option also lightens your load a bit because you can “pick up” your fuel on the trail instead of having to carry it around. Twigs fuel your fire while a series of intake holes on the stove’s bottom bring air in. A secondary combustion is created by pre-heated oxygen coming in through the stove’s top vents. The result is a surprisingly impressive fire that doesn’t create a ton of smoke. It’s a really great design for a backpacker who doesn’t want to leave any footprints in the forest.

Good Value for the Money: MSR Windburner Personal Stove System

Weight: 15.3 ounces

Designed for minimalists, this stove doesn’t skimp on performance. It uses a radiant burner and enclosed design to give you a windproof system for operating in harsher conditions. It gets an extra dose of portability from a nesting system that lands everything inside a 1-liter pot. I also find the insulated cozy handle used in this stove system to be more ergonomic than other options that cost more. Boil time for half a liter is 2:25 minutes.

Best Multi-Fuel: Littlbug Junior Camp Stove 

Weight: 5.1 ounces

The Littlbug Junior Stove is a small camp stove that can give you hours of natural wood-burning firepower and weighs only 5.1 ounces. Littlbug Stoves can be reconfigured to become the necessary windscreen and pot support for most commercially available alcohol burners and DIY designs. While it can burn alcohol, it also efficiently burns twigs, sticks and other biomass which means you don’t need to carry the additional weight of fuel. The stove is constructed with durable stainless steel and provides a stable and versatile cooking platform. The rugged simplicity allows for easy assembly and doesn’t require maintenance kits, spare parts, windscreens, or heat exchangers. It boils water fast and cools quickly. For packing efficiency, it is designed to fit inside a rolled-up sleeping pad for easy storage and transport.

Backpacking Cookware

For many backpackers, taking along cookware is akin to piling bricks into their packs. It doesn’t have to be that way once you find efficient, ultra-light cookware for backpacking. We have a few different materials to consider when selecting backpacking cooking gear. There’s really no getting around the fact that you’re dealing with trade-offs regardless of which option you ultimately go with. Let’s cover them!

Types of Backpacking Cookware

This is where it really takes going step by step through the cooking processes for the specific foods you intend to whip up on the trail. The three options are titanium, aluminum and stainless steel. Next, I’ll go into detail regarding the hits and misses for all three.

Most Popular and Very Light: Titanium Cookware

Why You Might Love It: Titanium is simply one of the lightest raw materials. It also happens to be nearly as strong as steel! The thinness of titanium also makes for some speedy cooking. All told, this is my personal pick.

Why You Might Not Love It: The quick-heating aspect of titanium can really sneak up on you to burn your food if you’re not careful. That’s devastating when you’re working with carefully planned rations.

Best Cooking Results and Heat Distribution: Aluminum Cookware

Why You Might Love It: Aluminum offers very even heating to present really good results.

Why You Might Not Love It: You may find that food sticks to aluminum more than other materials.

Most Durable: Stainless Steel

Why You Might Love It: Really stands up to wear and tear nicely.

Why You Might Not Love It: It’s the heaviest option.

Here’s where I’ll dive into the controversy of backpacking pots versus cooksets. Where do I come down on the issue? For me, it’s all about efficiency.

I’ve always found that one pot is more than enough to make basic, camp-appropriate meals that provide enough calories and sustenance. As someone who generally sticks to boiling water with my pot, I find that a pot does the trick. However, I will concede that a cookset can be appropriate in cases where you have some specific meal intentions that require a little more versatility. Ultimately, you have to reconcile your decision with the amount of space you have. Keep in mind that every ounce you add is coming with you during every single step on that trail!

The weight can start to pile in really fast if you’re not diligent about auditing for ultralight backpacking cooking gear. That’s why I like to focus on pots that are good for storage or nesting. Take a look at five picks that might make that a little easier for you.

MSR Titan Kettle

Weight: 4.2 ounces

This titanium kettle can hold .85 liters of liquid when used as a bowl or mug. It performs nicely with help from a tight lid and drip-free spout. You can also nest this kettle with the Titan Cup.

The Vargo BOT 700

Weight: 4.4 ounces

What I like about this multipurpose pot is that it’s great for carrying, storing, measuring and cooking! Made of titanium, it features fold-away handles for easy cleaning and a cooking lid. Most people who use the BOT actually take advantage of its 700-milliliter volume for pre-soaking dehydrated and freeze-dried foods. You can do this because the lid’s screw-on mechanism is watertight.

Snow Peak Multi Compact Cookset

Weight: 11.6 ounces

Despite my general dislike of cooksets, I’ll brand this as a good choice for two users to share. This set includes two stacking pots and two fry pans with foldable handles made from Japanese titanium. The different depths offer extra versatility for making different meals.

TOAKS Titanium Pot

Weight: 3.6 ounces

The security added by this pot’s lockable lid and mesh sack is a highlight for sure! This is also a good “base” item if you’re interested in stacking because it can nest about five different TOAKS products ranging from a cup to a wood-burning stove. It can also nest inside some of the larger TOAKS pans.

MSR Alpine Stowaway Stainless Steel (Series)

Weight: Ranges from 9.5 ounces to 19.5 ounces

This is a nice series to choose from if you’re looking for one or more pots in various sizes. I can justify the weightiness of some of the larger pots here because they double as storage for cooking supplies. Overall, these are really durable pots that have easy-lift handle flips that help to lock the lid nicely in place.

A backpacking mug is one of those inexpensive, handy accessories that you might not realize you need until you’re out there. Generally, what makes backpacking mugs different from camping mugs is that they have better insulation and sturdier lids. You may be able to get away with using the big cup from a stove system as your coffee mug. However, it’s worth glancing at official backpacking mugs if you’re into hot drinks because they’re a little more ergonomic.

My first go-to pick would be something like the GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker Mug . This ultra-lightweight, highly insulated mug weighs just over 4 ounces. I like its slip-resistant top and insulated neoprene sleeve.

I also like the Sea to Summit DeltaLight insulated mug . At just over 2 ounces in weight, this is a good choice for group trips because you can actually stack several together. I like how ergonomic the grip is on this. There’s also an easy-sip silicone lid and removable insulation.

Backpacking bowls are often underrated and overlooked. However, I’ve found them to be worth it when it comes to apportioning meals instead of assuming I’ll just eat from my cookware. In my experience, the Sea to Summit Delta Bowl (4.7 ounces ) with lid is an option that justifies the space it takes up because you can actually use it to store utensils. It’s designed using food-grade polypropylene with a high melting point for using hot water to re-hydrate freeze-dried foods. I also like how the high sides keep food in the bowl instead of on the ground near your tent.

The UST FlexWare Bowl (2.8 ounces) deserves some accolades if we’re basing our opinion just on size. The FlexWare bowls collapse to take up minimal space. They’re made of heat-resistant, flexible food-grade silicone that feels pretty stable in your hand. A lot of people actually use these as food or water bowls for their dogs on longer treks.

My go-to utensil is a spork for its two-in-one properties. Something like the UCO Utility Spork (0.5 ounces) is an ultralight, inexpensive option. This particular spork is technically a three-in-one due to the serrated edge for cutting on the side of the fork feature. I also like that it has a tether for hanging the spork to dry.

Humangear GoBites Uno Sporks (0.5 ounces) are also pretty solid. In addition to a really ergonomic feel in your hands, this spork features low-curvature edges that make it easy to scrape the sides of bowls and containers. That comes in really handy when you’re in the mode to not waste a scrap. They also produce a titanium spork (1 ounce), for those who might want something more durable.

Vargo Outdoors also does a titanium folding spork (0.6 ounces) that’s really efficient. I’ll also throw in that I like a long spoon for both stirring and reaching into larger food bags without any cross-contamination risks. For this, the TOAKS Titanium Long Handle Spoon with Polished Bowl (0.7 ounces) is a nice option. I’ve found that one of the best ways to get my cookware and bowls clean without damaging my spork through excessive scraping is to add a scraper to my pack. At just 0.4 ounces, the GSI Outdoors Compact Scraper is a product that earns its keep because it can be used for both cleaning up burned bits and getting every last bit of food from the pan to my plate.

For storing food on a journey, I recommend dry bags as the default choice for their ability to retain cold temperatures. Due to their ability to keep food odors contained, dry bags are considered bear smart. You’re just getting a lot more flexibility and convenience by going with something that has a handle and the ability to be attached to a rope. You can generally either place these in bear lockers that are provided or hang them on bear poles. My top pick for a dry bag is the Sea to Summit Stopper Dry Bag because it’s waterproof and easy to pack.

It’s possible that you might need to go with a bear canister if you’re hiking in spots like Glacier, Yellowstone, Yosemite, Sequoia, Grand Teton, Gates of the Arctic or Olympic. While useful, canisters do add bulk. One of the lightest bear boxes on the market is the Bare Boxer (1.6 pounds). You’ll be able to fit enough for two to three days in one of these. Some other lightweight options that weigh slightly more are the BearVault500 (2.9 pounds) and the UDAP No-Fed-Bear canister (2.4 pounds).

Check out more related articles

• Backpacking Coffee: How to make it right?
• Dometic CFX3 95 Dual Zone Powered Cooler – An In-Depth Review
• 100+ Amazing Facts About Camping, Wildlife & Wilderness
• Goal Zero Yeti 1500X vs Jackery Explorer 1500: Full Comparison
• Types of Camping: 17 Perfect Ways to Enjoy Wilderness
• The 6 Best Portable Power Stations for Camping

Hiking, Camping & Backpacking Enthusiast

Mins Lukas Savela , an adventure travel writer and outdoor enthusiast, has explored numerous countries, drawn by his love for nature and wildlife. His passion for hiking the world's most scenic trails is reflected in his writings. He contributed to renowned platforms like  Wandrly magazine , Go Nomad , Osprey.com , RAD Season , Wilderness Society , The Los Angeles Beat , California.com , Nature Conservancy , sharing his experiences to inspire others' adventures. Through his work, Mins aims to deepen appreciation for the natural world and encourage exploration.

Currently Mins resides in Alberta, Canada, where he's enjoying wilderness backpacking and front country camping, and made his first steps into becoming a hunter.

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Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Travel Essentials & Accessories

14 Best Travel Crock Pot for 2024

Published: September 30, 2023

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Mallory Galvez

• Tech & Gear

Introducing the 14 Best Travel Crock Pots for 2023 – the ultimate guide for all your on-the-go cooking needs! Whether you're a frequent traveler, camper, or someone who loves delicious homemade meals on the road, this comprehensive list will help you find the perfect travel crock pot to suit your needs. From compact and portable options to larger, versatile models, we've handpicked the top choices from trusted brands to ensure you can enjoy the convenience and comfort of freshly prepared meals wherever your adventures take you in 2023. Get ready to elevate your travel cooking experience with these top-of-the-line travel crock pots.

Jump to Review

Portable Food Warmer – Crockpot Electric Lunch Box

This product has a rating of A. * What does this rating mean?

Overall Score : 9/10

The Crockpot Electric Lunch Box is a portable food warmer that allows you to bring flavorful meals on-the-go. With its 20-ounce capacity, it's perfect for personal portion lunches or for dips. The dishwasher-safe removable container comes with a spill-proof lid for easy cleaning and storage. The exterior of the lunch box doesn't get hot when in use, making it safe to handle. It also features an Easy-Travel lid for portability. The Crockpot Electric Lunch Box is available in a stylish black and blue color. It's the perfect solution for those who need to heat up their food while on the move.

Key Features

• 20-ounce capacity for personal portion lunches or dips
• Bring flavorful meals on-the-go
• Dishwasher-safe removable container with spill-proof lid
• Exterior doesn't get hot when in use
• Easy-Travel lid for portability

Specifications

• Color: Old Black & Blue Lunch Crock
• Dimension: 7.70Lx7.90Wx6.70H
• Size: Small
• Perfect size for personal portion lunches
• Food remains hot and flavorful
• Easy to clean and store
• Safe to handle with cool exterior
• Convenient for on-the-go use
• No car outlet connection, only wall plug
• Lid may become stuck or crooked
• Paint on lid and cord durability issues

The Crockpot Electric Lunch Box is a game-changer for on-the-go meals. Its compact size and convenient features make it ideal for those who need to heat up their food while commuting or at work. The 20-ounce capacity is just right for personal portion lunches or dips, and the spill-proof lid ensures a mess-free experience. The dishwasher-safe removable container makes cleaning a breeze. Although it lacks a car outlet connection, the Crockpot Electric Lunch Box still performs remarkably well, keeping food hot and flavorful. Overall, it’s a fantastic product that provides convenience, efficiency, and delicious meals wherever you go.

Crock-Pot 6-Quart Cook & Carry Oval Manual Portable Slow Cooker, Red – SCCPVL600-R

Overall Score : 9.2/10

The Crock-Pot 6-Quart Cook & Carry Oval Manual Portable Slow Cooker is the ultimate must-have for anyone who loves slow cooking. With its 6-quart oval stoneware, it’s perfect for cooking meals for seven or more people, making it ideal for large gatherings or families. The red color adds a touch of style to any kitchen. The cooker has a locking lid and a ceramic insert, ensuring easy portability and quick cleanup. It features two settings, low and high, allowing you to choose the cooking temperature according to your needs. The temperature is perfect and it cooks food thoroughly. The removable insert is great for soaking and scrubbing, and it can be covered and stored in the fridge. While some users have reported issues with durability, overall customer satisfaction is high. If you're looking for a reliable and convenient slow cooker, the Crock-Pot 6-Quart Cook & Carry Oval Manual Portable Slow Cooker is a great choice.

• 6-quart oval stoneware
• Locking lid
• Ceramic insert
• Two settings: low and high
• Easy portability
• Quick cleanup
• Dimension: 9.90Lx15.20Wx15.20H
• Perfect for large gatherings or families
• Stylish red color
• Locking lid ensures easy portability
• Removable insert for easy cleaning
• Great temperature control
• Some users reported durability issues

The Crock-Pot 6-Quart Cook & Carry Oval Manual Portable Slow Cooker is a reliable and convenient kitchen companion. With its large capacity, stylish design, and easy portability, it’s perfect for cooking delicious meals for gatherings or families. The removable ceramic insert and locking lid make it easy to clean and transport. While there have been a few reports of durability issues, overall customer satisfaction is high. If you’re in need of a slow cooker that delivers great results and offers convenience, the Crock-Pot 6-Quart Cook & Carry Oval Manual Portable Slow Cooker is a fantastic choice.

West Bend Large-Capacity Non-Stick Crockpot

Overall Score : 7.5/10

The West Bend 87906 Slow Cooker is a versatile kitchen essential that can handle any meal size. With its large 6-quart capacity, non-stick interior, and the ability to be used on various heat sources, this crockpot is perfect for cooking for a couple or entertaining a crowd. The included griddle base allows for even more cooking options, such as making pancakes or grilled cheese. The transparent glass cover makes it easy to monitor your meal's progress, and the insulated tote and cover make it convenient to take your food on the go. Whether you're attending a potluck or traveling to another house, this slow cooker is a reliable companion. Despite its strengths, some customers have had issues with the non-stick coating and the thermostat clicking too loudly. Overall, the West Bend 87906 Slow Cooker scores a 4.3 out of 5 from customer reviews.

• Versatile Crockpot: 6-quart slow cooker for any meal size
• Large Capacity: non-stick interior, safe for oven, stove top, freezer
• Griddle Base: use the base for more cooking options
• Glass Cover: transparent, heat-resistant cover
• On-the-Go Convenience: insulated tote and cover for easy transport
• Color: Silver
• Dimension: 11.82Lx9.06Wx9.34H
• Size: 6-Quart
• Versatile and convenient for traveling
• Large capacity for big meals or entertaining
• Included griddle base adds cooking options
• Transparent glass cover for easy monitoring
• Insulated tote and cover for transporting
• Issues with the non-stick coating
• Thermostat clicks too loudly

The West Bend 87906 Slow Cooker is a reliable and versatile kitchen appliance. It offers a large capacity, non-stick interior, and the ability to be used on various heat sources. The included griddle base and insulated tote and cover add to its convenience. However, there have been some concerns raised about the non-stick coating and the thermostat noise. Overall, if you’re in need of a slow cooker that can handle any meal size and be easily transported, the West Bend 87906 is a solid choice.

YARWO Slow Cooker Bag

The YARWO Slow Cooker Bag is a must-have for any slow cooker enthusiast. Made of heavy duty nylon material, this bag provides excellent protection and ensures long-term use. It features a top compartment and front zipper pocket for storing kitchen accessories such as slow cooker liners, utensils, and cleaning tools. The top compartment is equipped with a water-resistant aluminum foil lining, making it easy to clean and wipe away any liquids or food splashes. With its wrapped top handles, padded side handles, and adjustable shoulder strap, this bag is highly portable and convenient for carrying your Crock-Pot to family parties, camping trips, or cooking classes. The dimensions of this travel bag are 17.2"x 14.8"x 14.2" and it is compatible with Crock-Pot and Hamilton Beach 6-8 qt Slow Cookers.

• -EXCELLENT PROTECTION: Made of heavy duty nylon material, internal thick padded will give your slow cooker a great protection and ensure long-term use.
• -KEEP ORGANIZED: Top compartment and front zipper pocket for storing kitchen accessories, like slow cooker liners, utensils and cleaning tools etc. Extra back pocket for recipes.
• -EASY TO CLEAN: Top compartment with water-resistant aluminum foil lining, any liquids or food splashes can be wipe away by a damp cloth easily.
• -PORTABLE: The features wrapped top handles, padded side handles and adjustable shoulder strap makes it convenient for you to carry Crock-Pot to family party, camping or cooking classes.
• -DIMENSIONS: 17.2"x 14.8"x 14.2". This slow cooker travel bag is compatible with Crock-Pot and Hamilton Beach 6-8 qt Slow Cooker. For other brand and models, please check the dimensions.
• Color: Gray
• Dimension: 1.00Lx1.00Wx1.00H
• Size: 8 quarts
• Excellent protection with heavy duty nylon material
• Multiple compartments for organized storage
• Easy to clean with water-resistant lining
• Convenient to carry with various handles and adjustable strap
• Compatible with Crock-Pot and Hamilton Beach 6-8 qt Slow Cooker

The YARWO Slow Cooker Bag is a reliable and practical accessory for any slow cooker owner. With its excellent protection, organized storage compartments, easy cleaning, and portability features, it is a versatile solution for transporting and storing your slow cooker. The compatibility with popular slow cooker brands adds to its appeal. Whether you’re heading to a potluck dinner or a cooking class, this bag will ensure your slow cooker is protected and all accessories are conveniently stored. Its durable construction and thoughtful design make it a top choice in slow cooker travel bags. Give your slow cooker the protection it deserves with the YARWO Slow Cooker Bag.

Crock-Pot® Lunch Food Warmer

Overall Score : 8.5/10

The Crock-Pot® Lunch Food Warmer is the perfect solution for enjoying flavorful meals on-the-go. With its 20-ounce capacity, it's ideal for personal portion lunches or for dips. The dishwasher-safe removable container with spill-proof lid makes it convenient and easy to clean. It also features an easy-travel lid for portability and ensures that the exterior doesn't get hot when in use. The red color adds a vibrant touch to your lunch routine. Whether you want to stay away from microwavable food or save money on cafeteria lunches, this food warmer is a great choice.

• Brings the comfort of flavorful meals on-the-go
• Dimension: 8.10Lx8.00Wx7.70H
• Convenient for enjoying hot meals on-the-go
• Dishwasher-safe and easy to clean
• Doesn't heat up the exterior
• Portable and travel-friendly
• Not constructed with good quality stainless steel
• Food cover might not tightly close at times
• Replacement inserts for the 20 oz model have been discontinued

The Crock-Pot® Lunch Food Warmer is a reliable and convenient accessory for anyone who wants to enjoy hot and flavorful meals on-the-go. With its compact size and spill-proof design, it provides a hassle-free lunchtime experience. The dishwasher-safe removable container and easy-travel lid make cleaning and portability a breeze. However, it is worth noting that the product’s stainless steel quality may not be up to par, and there have been concerns about the availability of replacement inserts. Overall, if you’re looking for a lunch food warmer that saves you money, avoids microwavable food, and keeps your lunch hot, this product is a great choice.

Crock-Pot Cook Travel Serve 6-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker

Overall Score : 8.4/10

The Crock-Pot SCCPCTS605-S Cook Travel Serve 6-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker is a versatile and convenient accessory for travelers who love delicious home-cooked meals on the go. With a 6-quart capacity, it's perfect for serving a large group or cooking a 6-pound roast. The programmable pre-set digital controls allow for easy and precise cooking times, while the handy travel temperature gauge provides visual feedback on food temperature. The HeatSaver stoneware maintains the optimal serving temperature even without a power source, making it ideal for camping or road trips. The easy-to-use locking lid with a lid gasket ensures a secure seal and reduces mess while traveling. With its removable, dishwasher-safe oval stoneware, this slow cooker is also easy to clean. Overall, the Crock-Pot SCCPCTS605-S Cook Travel Serve 6-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker is a reliable and efficient companion for anyone who wants to enjoy home-cooked meals while on the move.

• 6-quart capacity
• Shifts to warm setting automatically
• Cord storage clips
• Heat Saver stoneware
• Travel temperature gauge
• Easy-to-use locking lid
• Programmable pre-set digital controls
• Removable, dishwasher-safe oval stoneware
• Dimension: 16.00Lx10.20Wx16.10H
• Size: 6 Quarts
• Convenient for travel
• Large capacity for serving
• Maintains optimal serving temperature
• Easy to use and clean
• Limited timing control
• Cleansing the lid can be a little hassle

The Crock-Pot SCCPCTS605-S Cook Travel Serve 6-Quart Programmable Slow Cooker is a reliable and versatile travel accessory for those who enjoy home-cooked meals on the go. With its large capacity, efficient temperature control, and convenient locking lid, it provides a hassle-free cooking and serving experience. The HeatSaver stoneware keeps food at the perfect temperature, even without power, making it a great option for camping or road trips. While it may have some limitations in timing control and lid cleaning, these minor drawbacks are outweighed by its overall performance and convenience. For travelers who value homemade meals, this slow cooker is a worthy investment.

West Bend Slow Cooker with Large Capacity and Variable Temperature Control

Overall Score : 8/10

The West Bend 87905 Slow Cooker is a versatile crock pot that allows you to slow cook almost any sized meal. With a large capacity of 5 quarts, this crock pot is perfect for cooking for a crowd or just a cozy dinner for two. It features a non-stick interior and is safe for use in the oven, on the stove top, in the freezer or refrigerator. The crock pot also comes with a griddle base, allowing you to make pancakes and grilled cheese. The transparent glass cover makes it easy to monitor your meal, and the included insulated tote and cover make it convenient for on-the-go use. The West Bend 87905 Slow Cooker is the perfect travel companion for delicious meals.

• Versatile Crock Pot: Slow cook almost any sized meal
• Large Capacity: 5-quart crock pot with non-stick interior
• Griddle Base: Make pancakes, grilled cheese, and more
• Glass Cover: Transparent and heat-resistant
• On-the-Go Convenience: Insulated tote for easy transport
• Safe for Oven, Stove Top, Freezer and Dishwasher
• Dimension: 9.25Lx12.50Wx9.50H
• Size: 5-Quart
• Versatile cooking options
• Easy to clean
• Comes with a griddle base and insulated tote
• Safe for use in different appliances
• Smaller than anticipated
• Cooking temperature dial can be tricky to set
• Cooks get very hot to touch
• Lid has no seal and sits loosely

The West Bend 87905 Slow Cooker is a great addition to any kitchen. Its versatility allows for a wide range of cooking options, from slow cooking delicious stews to making pancakes and grilled cheese on the griddle base. The portable design with an insulated tote makes it convenient for travel and on-the-go use. Although it has a few drawbacks, such as the smaller size and difficulties in setting the cooking temperature, the overall performance and quality of this slow cooker make it a worthy investment. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining a crowd, the West Bend 87905 Slow Cooker is sure to impress with its functionality and convenience.

Essential Guide to Moroccan Recipes: Tagine and More

Overall Score : 9.4/10

Discover the exotic flavors of Moroccan cuisine with this essential guidebook. From traditional tagines to slow cooker recipes, this book offers 30 delicious recipes that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Morocco. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this book provides easy-to-follow instructions and ingredients that can be found at your local grocery store. Each recipe is accompanied by a mouthwatering introduction that will leave you hungry for more. Expand your culinary horizons and try your hand at cooking Moroccan dishes with this comprehensive cookbook.

• Discover the exotic flavors of Moroccan cuisine
• Offers 30 delicious recipes for traditional tagines and slow cooker dishes
• Easy-to-follow instructions and ingredients available at your local store
• Mouthwatering introductions to each recipe
• Wide variety of recipes
• Easy and interesting to follow
• Ingredients are easy to find

Transport yourself to the vibrant streets of Morocco with this essential guide to Moroccan recipes. Whether you’re a fan of tagines or curious to try new flavors, this cookbook has you covered. The easy-to-follow instructions and accessible ingredients make it a great option for both seasoned cooks and beginners. The mouthwatering introductions to each recipe add an extra layer of excitement and anticipation. With 30 delicious recipes to choose from, you’ll have a diverse range of Moroccan dishes at your fingertips. Expand your culinary repertoire and impress your family and friends with the exotic flavors of Morocco.

La Tartelette 10 Pieces Cosmetic Containers Travel Jar Pot

The La Tartelette 10 Pieces 20 Gram Round Cosmetic Containers are the perfect travel accessory for storing and sampling your favorite beauty products. With their compact size and durable construction, these pot jars are excellent for holding powder, liquids, creams, samples, make-ups, nail polish, and more. They are especially useful during travel, ensuring that your beauty products stay safe and secure. The containers are white in color and come in a package of 10, each with a 20 ml capacity. The dimensions of each container are 1.9 inches x 1.3 inches, making them easily portable. Whether you're a frequent traveler or simply need a convenient way to organize your beauty products, these cosmetic containers are a must-have. Get yours today and never worry about spills or leaks again!

• Excellent for storing or sampling mineralized eyeshadows or mineralized makeup and it's easy to travel with.
• Useful Pot Jars: Suitable for holding powder, liquids, creams, samples, make-ups, nail polish, and more.
• Dimensions: 1.9 Inches x 1.3 Inches
• Color: White
• Quantity: This package includes 10 pieces of 20 ml cosmetic containers
• Compact and portable design for convenient travel
• Durable construction to protect beauty products from spills and leaks
• Versatile usage for various types of cosmetics and samples
• Generous quantity of 10 containers in one package

The La Tartelette 10 Pieces 20 Gram Round Cosmetic Containers are a practical and essential accessory for both frequent travelers and beauty enthusiasts. With their compact size, durable construction, and versatile usage, these pot jars provide a convenient and secure way to store and sample your favorite beauty products. Say goodbye to spills and leaks during travel and hello to organized and easily accessible cosmetics. The generous quantity of 10 containers ensures that you have plenty of storage options for all your beauty needs. Whether you’re on the go or simply want to keep your cosmetics neatly organized, these cosmetic containers are a must-have addition to your travel accessories.

Elite Gourmet Casserole Crock Slow Cooker

The Elite Gourmet MST-5240 Casserole Crock Slow Cooker is a versatile and convenient kitchen appliance that allows you to easily prepare and transport delicious meals. With its manual temperature settings and lockable lid, this slow cooker ensures that your food is cooked to perfection and remains warm until serving. The PFOA/PTFE Free Oven-Safe Stoneware Pan can be used in the oven, making it easy to brown the top of your dishes. The removable rectangular stoneware is perfectly sized for casseroles and other potluck dishes. The dishwasher safe tempered glass lid and stoneware pot with cool touch handles and knobs make clean-up a breeze. Whether you're hosting a potluck or preparing meals in advance, the Elite Gourmet 3.5Qt. Casserole Slow Cooker is the perfect companion.

• Manual Warm/Low/High Temperature settings
• Locking lid design and oversized handles
• PFOA/PTFE Free Oven-Safe Stoneware Pan
• Removable rectangular stoneware, 9×13 size
• Dishwasher safe tempered glass lid and stoneware pot
• Dimension: 12.00Lx19.00Wx7.50H
• Size: 3.5 Quart
• Convenient and versatile for preparing and transporting meals
• Can be used in the oven for browning dishes
• Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning
• Handles and locks may rust over time
• Heavy and difficult to carry for some people
• Exterior of the unit gets extremely hot

The Elite Gourmet Casserole Crock Slow Cooker is a must-have for anyone who loves cooking and entertaining. Its ability to cook, keep warm, and transport food makes it a convenient option for potlucks and gatherings. The versatile design allows for oven use, giving you more options when it comes to preparing your favorite dishes. The dishwasher-safe features make clean-up a breeze, saving you time and effort. However, it’s important to note that the handles and locks may rust over time, and the unit can be heavy for some individuals to carry. Overall, this slow cooker is a reliable and efficient kitchen accessory that will enhance your cooking experience.

Portable Food Warmer: TRAVELISIMO Electric Lunch Box

Say goodbye to unhealthy fast food and cold sandwiches with our TRAVELISIMO Electric Lunch Box. With its 3-in-1 functionality and efficient heating capability, you can enjoy warm and delicious homecooked meals anywhere and anytime. Its secure and leakproof lid, along with a separate compartment, keeps your food organized and sealed for a complete dining experience. The lunch box features safety measures like a stainless steel inner food container and BPA-free, PVC-free plastic. It also includes high-quality utensils, a fruit box, and charging cables. Compact and easy to use, this lunch box is perfect for road trips, work, and more. Upgrade your lunch habits with the TRAVELISIMO Electric Lunch Box!

• 80W Fast heating function
• 3-in-1 Electric lunch box
• 1.5L Capacity+0.45L Compartment
• Safety features
• Complete dining experience
• Color: Dark Green
• Dimension: 9.06Lx6.50Wx4.17H
• Size: 23x16x11cm
• Fast heating function – enjoy warm meals in 20-30 minutes
• Flexible power options for home, office, car, or truck
• Secure and leakproof lid with separate food compartment
• 304 stainless steel inner food container for safety
• Includes high-quality utensils, fruit box, and charging cables
• Lack of information regarding usage
• May get too hot without proper heating methods
• Clip closure may be difficult to use

The TRAVELISIMO Electric Lunch Box is a reliable and convenient accessory for those who want to enjoy homemade meals on the go. With its fast heating function, flexible power options, and secure design, you can easily heat and carry your favorite dishes. The inclusion of high-quality utensils and additional accessories adds value to this lunch box. However, it would be beneficial if the product came with more detailed instructions. Despite this minor drawback, the TRAVELISIMO Electric Lunch Box is a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to upgrade their lunchtime experience. Say goodbye to cold sandwiches and hello to warm, homecooked meals wherever you are!

Reynolds Kitchens Slow Cooker Liners, 6 Count

The Reynolds Kitchens Slow Cooker Liners are a must-have accessory for anyone who loves using their slow cooker. These liners make cooking and cleaning up a breeze, allowing you to spend more time enjoying delicious meals with your loved ones. Each package includes six liners, measuring 13 x 21 inches, which are designed to fit 3- to 8-quart round and oval slow cookers. With these liners, you can say goodbye to soaking and scrubbing as they prevent stubborn, stuck-on messes. Made from a BPA-free nylon-blend construction, these liners are safe for use on low, medium, and high settings. They are also kosher certified. Simply line your slow cooker with a liner before adding your ingredients, and when you're done, just lift out the bag and throw it away. The crockpot bowl will be clean and ready for the next use. With a customer rating of 4.8/5, these slow cooker liners have received rave reviews for their convenience and effectiveness.

• SLOW COOKER LINERS: This package contains six Reynolds kitchens slow cooker liners, each measuring 13 x 21 inches to fit 3- to 8-quart round and oval slow cookers
• NO SOAKING OR SCRUBBING: Line your slow cooker with these slow cooker bags to prevent stubborn, stuck-on messes
• BPA-FREE & SAFE FOR HIGH TEMPS: Each slow cooker bag is made with a BPA-free nylon-blend construction that’s safe for low, medium & high settings. Kosher
• MAKE MEALS EASY: Use a Reynolds slow cooker liner next time you make chili, pulled pork, pot roasts, soups & more to spend less time scrubbing & more time with your loved ones
• Color: Clear
• Dimension: 8.00Lx3.00Wx1.50H
• Size: 6 Count (Pack of 1)
• Prevents stubborn, stuck-on messes
• BPA-free and safe for high temperatures
• Convenient and time-saving
• Easy to use and clean up
• Versatile and fits various slow cooker capacities
• Single-use disposable liners
• May not fit all slow cooker sizes

The Reynolds Kitchens Slow Cooker Liners are an essential accessory for anyone who enjoys using their slow cooker. With their easy-to-use design and convenient clean-up, these liners have become a game-changer in the kitchen. The liners prevent stubborn messes, saving you time and effort on scrubbing. They are made with BPA-free materials, ensuring safety when cooking at different settings. The versatility of these liners, fitting various slow cooker capacities, adds to their appeal. While they are disposable, making them single-use products, the convenience they provide outweighs this drawback. With a customer rating of 4.8/5, it’s clear that these Reynolds Kitchens Slow Cooker Liners are highly recommended by users. Whether you’re making chili, pulled pork, or pot roasts, these liners will make your cooking experience easier and more enjoyable.

Portable Stainless Steel Slow Cooker with Locking System & Traveling Bag

The Cook & Carry Removable Stainless Steel Digital Countdown Oval Slow Cooker is the perfect accessory for your travel adventures. With its mounted locking system, you can easily take your slow cooked meal on the road without any spills or mess. The insulated travel bag ensures that your food stays warm during transport, making it convenient and easy to enjoy a home-cooked meal wherever you go. The stainless steel finish adds a sleek and professional look to your kitchen. With a capacity of 7 quarts, this slow cooker is perfect for large meals and gatherings. Whether you're heading to a potluck, camping trip, or family gathering, the Cook & Carry Slow Cooker is a must-have travel accessory.

• Cook & Carry Lid has mounted locking system for portability
• An easy way to take your slow cooked meal on the road
• Insulated travel bag for easy transport
• Stainless steel finish
• Dimension: 10.00Lx17.00Wx11.00H
• Size: 7 quarts
• Secure locking system prevents spills during transportation
• Insulated travel bag keeps food warm
• Large capacity is perfect for feeding a crowd
• Sleek stainless steel finish adds a professional look
• May be too large and heavy for some travelers
• Slow cooking process may not be suitable for all meals

The Cook & Carry Removable Stainless Steel Digital Countdown Oval Slow Cooker is a reliable and convenient option for travelers who enjoy home-cooked meals on the go. Its locking system and insulated travel bag ensure that your food stays secure and warm during transportation. With a large capacity and sleek design, it is perfect for feeding a crowd or impressing guests at potlucks and gatherings. However, the size and weight of the cooker may not be suitable for all travelers, and the slow cooking process may not be ideal for every meal. Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and portable slow cooker, this product is a great choice.

Hamilton Beach Portable Slow Cooker with Lid Lock & Insulated Bag

The Hamilton Beach Stay or Go Portable Slow Cooker with Lid Lock and Dishwasher-Safe Crock is the perfect companion for family meals and potlucks. The 6-quart slow cooker features a tight-fitting lid to prevent messy spills during transportation. With a stoneware crock, it can fit a variety of foods, from lasagna to large cuts of meat, serving up to 7+ people. The simple controls allow for easy operation with minimal effort and great results. It also has the option to switch to Warm after cooking to maintain the ideal temperature. Additionally, the package includes a Travel Case & Carrier Insulated Bag that fits most 4-8 quart slow cookers, keeping your food warm and secure during transportation. The front of the caddy's case opens for easy loading and unloading.

• Reduce spills with lid lock
• 6-quart size serves 7+ people
• Simple controls for flavorful meals
• Maintains ideal temperature with Warm option
• Portable and easy for potlucks and parties
• Fits most 4-8 quart slow cookers
• Insulated bag keeps food warm
• Easy loading with front opening
• Color: Black
• Prevents messy spills during transportation
• Versatile for a variety of foods
• Easy to operate with great results
• Maintains ideal temperature until ready to eat
• Convenient for potlucks and parties
• Fits different slow cooker sizes
• Keeps food warm and secure during transport
• Simple loading and unloading
• May be too large for smaller households
• Requires manual cleaning

The Hamilton Beach Stay or Go Portable Slow Cooker with Lid Lock and Dishwasher-Safe Crock is a reliable and convenient option for anyone who loves to cook and share meals with family and friends. Its spacious 6-quart size and simple controls allow for effortless cooking of flavorful dishes, while the lid lock ensures mess-free transportation. The included Travel Case & Carrier Insulated Bag adds another layer of convenience, keeping your food warm and secure during potlucks and parties. While it may be too large for smaller households and requires manual cleaning, its overall performance and features make it a worthwhile investment for those who enjoy slow cooking on the go.

Buyer's Guide: Travel Crock Pot

Key considerations.

• Determine the capacity you need based on the number of servings you typically cook.
• Consider your storage space limitations and the intended use of the crock pot.
• Portability :
• Look for compact and lightweight models that are easy to carry and transport.
• Check if the crock pot has secure latches or handles for safe transportation.
• Power Options :
• Determine whether you need a crock pot that plugs into a standard electrical outlet or one that is versatile enough to use in a car, RV, or other vehicles.
• Keep in mind that while electric ones offer more cooking flexibility, those with alternative power options might be more suitable for outdoor adventures.
• Temperature Control :
• Look for travel crock pots with adjustable temperature settings to ensure your meals are cooked to perfection.
• Consider models with digital displays or timers for added convenience.
• Versatility :
• Check if the crock pot can be used for tasks other than cooking, such as warming food or serving as a food container.
• Consider if the removable crock doubles as a serving dish.
• Durability and Cleaning :
• Look for travel crock pots made from durable materials that can withstand the rigors of travel.
• Consider models with removable, dishwasher-safe inserts for easy cleanup.
• Safety Features :
• Ensure the crock pot has features like automatic shut-off or a locking lid to prevent spills while in transit.
• Look for models with cool-touch exteriors to prevent accidental burns.

Frequently Asked Questions about 14 Best Travel Crock Pot for 2023

Yes, most travel crock pots can be safely used in hotel rooms as long as you have access to an electrical outlet. However, it’s always a good idea to check the hotel’s policy regarding the use of cooking appliances.

While it is possible to cook frozen food in a travel crock pot, it is generally recommended to thaw the food before placing it in the crock pot. Thawing allows for more even cooking and reduces the risk of bacterial growth.

The cooking time can vary depending on the recipe, the size of the crock pot, and the temperature setting used. However, most dishes typically take anywhere from 4 to 8 hours to cook on low heat and 2 to 4 hours on high heat.

It is generally safe to leave a travel crock pot unattended, especially if it has safety features like automatic shut-off. However, it is always recommended to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and exercise caution when leaving any cooking appliance running for extended periods.

While travel crock pots are primarily designed for cooking and keeping food warm, some models may have cooling features that allow them to be used for cold foods as well. However, it’s important to check the product specifications to ensure it meets your specific needs.

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The Best Induction Cookware

By Rachel Wharton

Rachel Wharton is a writer covering kitchen appliances. She used 72 bags of popcorn to find the best microwave (and set the office on fire only once).

Because induction cooking uses magnetic properties to generate heat , it requires cookware made with a magnetic metal. Finding pots and pans that fit the bill isn’t as tricky as it may seem.

The majority of new cookware is compatible with induction—the hard part is finding pieces that are worth the investment.

How to choose

To work on induction, the bottom of a pan must be made of magnetic metal. If a magnet sticks, it’s compatible.

On most new cookware, either on the packaging or on the bottom of the pan, labeling clearly states whether it is induction-ready.

Clay, glass, and 100% aluminum, copper, and non-magnetic stainless steel don’t work on induction, except with a diffuser .

Start with the styles and sizes of pots and pans you use most often. The recommendations in this guide are all top performers.

To help you decide, here is a roundup of our top cookware picks that will work well on an induction cooktop or range , plus advice on what to look for when you’re choosing induction-ready cookware.

The research

The best nonstick pan for induction, the best cast-iron skillet for induction, the best dutch oven for induction, a great stainless steel skillet for induction, a great saucepan for induction, the best budget cookware set for induction, the best stovetop pressure cooker for induction, how to choose the best cookware to use with induction.

Tramontina Tri-Ply Base 10-Inch Nonstick Fry Pan

This heavy-bottomed pan is a solid choice if you cook on induction. It heats up quickly and evenly, and it’s super slick.

Buying Options

Good for: Eggs, fish, pancakes, and other delicate items.

Why it’s great:

• It heats fast and evenly. The Tramontina Tri-Ply Base 10-Inch Nonstick Fry Pan has a layer of magnetic steel on its bottom that allows it to work on induction. It heated faster and more evenly than other similar induction-compatible skillets we tested.
• Its surface and shape are ideal. The nonstick surface of this Tramontina pan is especially slick. The pan’s shape is ideal, too, as the flared sides make it easy for you to maneuver a spatula or flip an egg, and the bent lip allows you to pour out oil or other liquids without dribbling. The comfortable, hollow stainless steel handle stays cool.
• It comes in three sizes. The 10-inch size is perfect for the types of tasks that a nonstick pan is best at (omelets, fried eggs), but Tramontina also sells an 8-inch version and a 12-inch size.

Flaws but not dealbreakers:

• You have to use soft utensils (wood, silicone, heat-safe plastic) and avoid using high heat on nonstick pans to avoid damaging the nonstick coating. And we don’t recommend putting this pan in the dishwasher.
• Even with the best care, nonstick pans usually last only from three to five years.
• Some people have expressed concerns about the health and environmental impacts of nonstick pans’ PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) coating.

Read our full review of the best nonstick pans .

Lodge Chef Collection 12-Inch Cast Iron Skillet

This affordable pan is lighter than a traditional cast-iron skillet and a little shallower. It’s an ideal shape for searing, roasting, and sautéing.

Good for: Searing, sautéing, pan-frying, roasting, and baking.

• It’s versatile. Cast iron holds a lot of heat, so the Lodge Chef Collection 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet works well for searing meats, caramelizing vegetables, or holding a steady oil temperature for frying. It has excellent seasoning straight out of the box, so it’s nonstick enough for frying eggs or making pancakes. (This is a good nonstick option if you’re avoiding nonstick cookware.)
• It’s comfortable to cook with. This skillet has an ergonomically curved handle, as well as sloping sides that make maneuvering a spatula easy. It’s also the lightest of all the inexpensive cast-iron skillets we’ve tested .
• It’s durable. With just a bit of care, this skillet could last you a lifetime. Maintaining the seasoning takes some special care , though the task is not as difficult as you might think. (Yes, you can clean it with soap.)
• At 6.5 pounds, our pick is lighter than other cast-iron skillets we’ve tested, but it’s still too weighty for anyone to comfortably move around much with one hand.
• Because cast iron holds heat so well, this skillet responds more slowly to temperature adjustments.

Read our full review of the best cast-iron skillets .

Lodge 6-Quart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven

The best dutch oven.

This inexpensive Dutch oven aced every test, and its design rivals that of pricier models.

Good for: Stews, soups, sauces, and braises.

• It holds heat well. The Lodge 6 Quart Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven is great for getting a good sear or for maintaining a steady temperature (such as when you’re braising or frying).
• It’s well designed. Its wider base and shorter sides allow steam to escape easily, which helps develop a crisp, golden sear or a flavorful, concentrated braise.
• It’s easy to care for. An enamel coating isn’t quite as nonstick as a good layer of seasoning on a bare cast-iron skillet, but it does make this Dutch oven a bit more foolproof to use and care for. You don’t need to season it, and it won’t rust if it sits in a wet sink.
• It’s affordable. This inexpensive Lodge model performed about as well as much pricier Dutch ovens in our tests.
• Like a cast-iron skillet, a Dutch oven is heavy and responds slowly to temperature adjustments.
• The enamel coating picks up stains easily (though usually you can clean it ) and requires you to exercise some care to avoid scratches or chips. Use wood, silicone, or heat-safe plastic utensils rather than metal.

Read our full review of the best Dutch ovens .

All-Clad D3 Stainless 12″ Fry Pan with Lid

The best stainless steel skillet for induction.

This skillet is a proven workhorse with durable construction—and it comes with a lid.

May be out of stock

Good for: Searing, sautéing, shallow braising, and cooking one-pan meals.

• It’s excellent to cook with. The All-Clad D3 Stainless Fry Pan with Lid 12 Inch heats exceptionally evenly. Lightweight and ideally shaped, it has flared sides that make tossing or stirring ingredients easy, and it comes with a lid, which is handy for shallow braises and the like.
• It’s durable and easy to clean. The tri-ply All-Clad D3 is a longtime pick—and the kind of pan that will last a lifetime. It doesn’t take on the slightly brassy hue that other pans get when heated on high (the color change doesn’t affect a pan’s performance, but it bothers some people), and we’ve found it easier to clean than other tri-ply skillets.
• Tri-ply cookware tends to click and whine when used on induction, which irritates some people.
• The All-Clad D3 is expensive. If you don’t want to spend quite so much on a tri-ply stainless steel sauté pan that might annoy you, consider our runner-up pick, the Tramontina Gourmet Tri-Ply Clad 12-Inch Fry Pan , which typically costs nearly a third less.

Read our full review of the best skillet .

Tramontina Gourmet Tri-Ply Clad 2-Quart Covered Saucepan

The best saucepan.

This fully clad saucepan heats evenly and is the most comfortable to hold.

Good for: Sauces, as well as smaller tasks like reheating leftovers or cooking oatmeal, custard, boiled eggs, or instant noodles.

• It’s affordable and well made. Much of what we like about the Tramontina Tri-Ply Base 10-Inch Nonstick Fry Pan also applies to the Tramontina Gourmet Tri-Ply Clad 2-Quart Covered Saucepan . (Tramontina’s 12-piece cookware set is our favorite set, too.)
• It heats evenly and is comfortable to use. The saucepan has a comfortable handle and heats evenly, and in our tests we had no trouble reaching into the bottom corners with a spoon or whisk.
• Tri-ply cookware tends to click or whine when used on induction. If you’re sensitive to sounds, this saucepan might not be for you.

Read our full review of the best saucepans .

Goldilocks Cookware Set Plus

The best budget cookware set.

This fully clad tri-ply set performed better than any set we’ve tested under $250. It includes larger skillets, but the pans are heavier and lack the proven longevity of our other picks.

Good for: Stovetop cooking, including searing, sautéing, pan-frying, roasting, baking, simmering stock, and making sauces.

• It offers quality and convenience at an affordable price. If you want to buy a new set of cookware for your new induction cooktop or range in one fell swoop but don’t want to spend a lot, we recommend the fully clad tri-ply stainless steel Goldilocks Cookware Set Plus . The quality of the set impressed us; it performed better than any other set we tested in this price range, and the pans heated evenly.
• It has a good range of types and sizes. This set covers almost all of the pot and pan sizes we prefer, including a 12-inch skillet—a rarity in most sets.
• Unlike our other cookware set picks , the Goldilocks set doesn’t include a 3- or 4-quart sauté pan with a lid (though a cast-iron skillet would work in lieu of that piece).
• Some of the pieces in this set are slightly heavier than the All-Clad and Tramontina pieces we recommend, so keep that in mind if you’re partial to lighter cookware.
• We experienced some minor sticking while sautéing chicken in the skillets.
• As with any type of tri-ply cookware, the pieces in this set could click or whine when used on induction.

Read our full review of the best cookware set .

Fissler Vitaquick 8.5-Quart Pressure Cooker

User-friendly and available in four sizes.

This user-friendly pot offers the best pressure-cooking experience for everyone, from novices to experienced cooks.

Good for: Quick-cooking beans and grains, tenderizing tough cuts of meat, and cooking one-pot meals.

• It’s the best-quality pressure cooker you can buy. Yes, the Fissler Vitaquick 8.5-Quart Pressure Cooker is expensive. But if you plan on cooking under pressure often, it’s worth the investment. Among the models in our test group, its pressure settings were the most intuitive to read, and the lid slid onto the pot the most smoothly. Plus, without its lid, it can double as a regular stockpot. Fissler offers four sizes.
• Its tri-ply bottom should work well on induction. Of all the pressure cookers we tested, this Fissler model distributed heat the most evenly for sautéing and searing.
• There’s a (short and easy) learning curve to working with a pressure cooker on induction. For starters, induction will heat the pot much faster than a gas stove or radiant-electric stove will, so don’t use it on the highest heat setting.

Read our full review of the best stovetop pressure cooker .

On most new cookware pieces, labeling clearly states whether they are induction-ready; some are imprinted with the international symbol for induction cookware .

If you’re unsure whether a pot or pan you already own will work, hold a magnet to its bottom: If the attraction is strong, cook away.

Generally speaking, induction-compatible cookware is made in one of three ways:

• The entire pan is made of a magnetic metal. A pan made of cast iron, enameled cast iron (which has a protective enamel coating on its cooking surface), carbon steel, or many ( but not all ) kinds of stainless steel will work great with induction.
• The pan has a magnetic bottom. Manufacturers can weld or attach a disk of magnetic metal to the bottom of cookware made of non-magnetic metals (including ceramic-coated versions ) for compatibility with induction. More expensive cookware pieces often have a disk made of several layers of metal bonded together, which is sturdier and often referred to as a “clad” or “cladded” bottom.
• The pan is fully clad. A fully clad pot or pan is made entirely of metal layers, not just at the bottom. One layer is often a highly conductive metal like copper or aluminum; the other layers make the pot both sturdy and magnetic. One common type is fully clad tri-ply, in which the pot has three layers of metal. In our testing, we’ve found that fully clad pans—and especially fully clad tri-ply pans—are great for cooking but prone to clicking or whining when used with induction. Some people don’t mind the noise, but others find it intolerable. (The atomic agitation that generates heat also generates sounds as the metals expand and contract at different rates, said Brenden Duncombe, a former hardware engineer at Hestan Cue .) This sound is particularly noticeable when the cookware is covered with a lid or initially heating up, or when it is old and slightly warped.

Pots made of clay, glass, 100% aluminum, copper, and 18/10 and 18/8 non-magnetic stainless steel will not work on induction . You can, however, use such pieces on top of an induction-compatible metal diffuser .

This article was edited by Ingrid Skjong, Marguerite Preston, and Courtney Schley.

Meet your guide

Rachel Wharton

Rachel Wharton is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter covering ovens, stoves, fridges and other essential kitchen appliances. She has more than 15 years of experience reporting on food issues and a master's degree in food studies, and has helped write more than a dozen books on that topic (including her own, American Food: A Not-So-Serious History ). One of her first real gigs was reviewing kitchen gadgets in less than 50 words for the New York Daily News.

Further reading

The Best Cookware Set

by Michael Sullivan

After researching over 80 cookware sets and rigorously testing 19, we recommend the Tramontina Gourmet 12-Piece Tri-Ply Clad Cookware Set .

The Best Nonstick Pan

by Lesley Stockton

We’ve cooked mounds of eggs and more in 27 nonstick pans since 2016, and we recommend the slick and durable Tramontina 10-Inch Professional Restaurant Fry Pan .

The Best Induction Cooktop

by Rachel Wharton

An induction cooktop—safe, sleek, and efficient—can transform your kitchen and the way you cook. Here’s how to choose the best one for you.

If Induction Cooktops Are So Great, Why Does Hardly Anyone Use Them?

by Tyler Wells Lynch

Induction cooking is fast, safe, and available now—yet it’s still uncommon in the US. Here are the barriers (real and imagined) that limit its popularity.

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7 Best Cookware Sets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

We've used many pots and pans in our test kitchen. Here are the best sets you can buy no matter what price point or material you're looking for.

Related To:

Our Top Cookware Set Picks

• Best Nonstick: Anolon Advanced Home 11-Piece Cookware Set

Best Ceramic Nonstick: Blue Diamond Pan Cookware-Set, 14 Piece

• Best Nontoxic Set: Caraway Home Cookware Set

Best Budget: Rachael Ray Create Delicious 13-Piece Cookware Set

• Best Stainless Steel with Nonstick Pan: Made In The Stainless Sets
• Best Stainless Steel : All-Clad D3 Cookware Set, 10 piece Set

Best Value Stainless Steel: Tramontina Stainless Steel Tri-Ply Clad 12-Piece Set

Tested by T.K. Brady , Lauren Seib and Sharon Franke

Cookware sets are available in a wide array of materials, with and without nonstick finishes, and there are distinct differences between the various offerings when it comes to how they cook and their ease of use. While cookware sets are sold at a huge range of prices, you don’t have to spend top dollar to get a dependable one that you’ll find a pleasure to cook with. Before you shop, it’s important to get a handle on what you like to cook and for how many people, as well as your tolerance for scrubbing and the size of your budget. For someone who cooks often and is savvy in the kitchen, a stainless steel cookware set might be the best option. However, for someone newer to cooking, nonstick cookware sets and those with limited pieces can be a great place to start. For those who want to use nonstick cookware over higher heat and in the oven, ceramic cookware sets are the best choice. We've tested hundreds of pieces of cookware in our test kitchens and used our experience with various brands and materials to determine the seven best cookware sets you can buy right now.

How We Picked

To select our best cookware sets, we relied on our years of rustling pots and pan both in our test kitchens and on our own home stoves. We checked what professional reviewers had to say about their test results and what home cooks reported about long-time use.

In addition to considering how well pots and pans cooked and how easy they were to use and clean, we considered the assortment of pieces included in each set. Our picks contain a selection of pot and pans that we think will meet most of your cooking needs.

Best Traditional Nonstick: Anolon Advanced 11-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set

• Heats evenly
• Great nonstick release
• Includes large saute pan and stockpot
• Not dishwasher safe
• Rivets are hard to clean

With this set, you’ll get the very best nonstick performance . Even the stickiest foods, like fried eggs and pancakes, fall out of the pan, leaving the surfaces virtually spotless, even when you don’t use butter. While you may think of nonstick as best for frying, you’ll also appreciate how rice doesn’t stick to the pots. You can also count on these pots and pans to brown burgers evenly and simmer a tomato sauce steadily. The body of the pan is anodized aluminum and the exterior finish, which comes in your choice of gray, indigo, bronze or black, is also nonstick for the ultimate in easy cleanup. As Anolon is oven-safe up to 400 degrees F, you can use the skillets for a frittata or Dutch baby pancake that starts off on the stovetop and finishes in the oven. In addition to an 8-quart stockpot you get a wide and deep 12-inch skillet that’s perfect for dishes like pork chops and peppers or chicken and dumplings. All of the lids are glass so you can see if your paella has absorbed all the broth without uncovering the pan and losing heat. One little quibble: You may need to do a little detail work to keep the stainless-steel rivets inside the cookware clean.

• Number of Pieces 11
• What's Included 8.5" skillet, deep 12" skillet with lid, 1.5- and 3-quart saucepans with lids, 4-quart sauté pan with lid, 8-quart stockpot with lid
• Material Anodized aluminum
• Finish Type Nonstick
• Dishwasher Safe No
• Induction Compatible No

• Can be used over high heat and under broiler
• Rivets are nonstick coated
• Large skillet and stockpot aren't included

Blue Diamond is made of aluminum that’s coated inside with a ceramic finish, rather than a traditional one made of PTFE. While you many not find it as stickproof, you will get the benefit of easy cleanup. Unlike other nonstick pans, these can withstand temps up to 850 degrees F on the stovetop or in the oven, so you can go ahead and fearlessly sear a sirloin in a frypan or glaze pork chops under the broiler. Testing has revealed that Blue Diamond heats evenly, so if you’re slinging pancakes you don’t have to keep moving them around in the pan to get them all done at the same time. In spite of its low cost, these pieces are quite handsome with a dark blue exterior enamel surface and brushed stainless steel handles. Although the handles are attached with rivets for durability, they’re coated with the nonstick finish so don’t require any extra work to keep clean. The lids are glass to let you check if your soup is simmering gently or boiling ferociously and then adjust the heat accordingly. One thing to note is that the pieces in this set are not exceptionally large. The Dutch oven is 5 quarts and the deep straight-sided sauté pan is only 2.5 quarts.

• Number of Pieces 14
• What's Included 7" and 9.5" frypans, 2- and 3-quart saucepans with lids, 5-quart stockpot with lid, 2.5-quart sauté pan with lid, stainless steel steamer insert, 3 nylon cooking tools
• Material Aluminum
• Finish Type Ceramic nonstick interior, enamel exterior
• Dishwasher Safe Yes

Best Nontoxic Set: Caraway Cookware Set

• Can be used over high heat
• Very attractive

This direct-to-consumer ceramic line is a triple threat in design, durability and efficacy. Plus, it's perfect for the minimalist cook or the person with very little storage room. While this set is lacking an 8-inch frying pan, the 10.5-inch frying pan, 4.5-quart saute pan, 3-quart saucepan and 6.5-quart Dutch oven (with three mix-and-match low-profile lids) cover your cooking needs, while the bonus canvas lid holder and magnetic holding rack keep your cabinets organized. Even heat distribution, quick boil and breezy clean-up make Caraway your dinner-in-a-pinch partner-in-crime. We recommend their star-studded collection for newlyweds, first-time homeowners and anyone looking to reset their stovetop needs. For anyone looking for additional colors, Crate & Barrel carries four exclusive colors with gold hardware.

Read our full review of Caraway's Cookware Set

• Number of Pieces 9
• What's Included 10.5" fry pan, 3-quart saucepan with lid, 4.5-quart sauté pan with lid, 6.5-quart Dutch oven with lid, magnetic pan rack, canvas lid holder
• Material Aluminum with stainless steel base
• Finish Type Ceramic nonstick interior, matte enamel exterior
• Induction Compatible Yes

• Riveted silicone handles
• Large skillet isn't included

If you prefer bright, cheery kitchen tools this set comes in shimmery shades of red, burgundy, teal, light blue, and yes, gray if you must. In spite of its very reasonable price, this set offers even heating and has an interior nonstick finish that makes it easy to scramble up eggs and then clean out the pan afterwards. Rachael Ray offers offer some very nice features that you don’t always find at this price including silicone handles that are riveted, not screwed on, so they won’t be coming loose, glass lids, and flared rims to enhance pouring. On the bottom there’s a stainless-steel base that makes the cookware safe for use on an induction cooktop and you can pop a skillet in the oven up to 400 degrees F. There are no extra-large pots included, but the 6-quart stockpot is plenty adequate for soups and pasta water and can also serve as a Dutch oven.

• Number of Pieces 13
• What's Included 8.5" frying pan, 10.25" deep frying pan with lid, 1.5- and 3-quart saucepans with lids, 6-quart stockpot with lid, 3-quart sauté pan with lid, turner, cookie pan
• Finish Type Nonstick interior, enamel exterior

Best Stainless Steel with Nonstick Pan: The Stainless Sets

• Sized marked on bottoms
• Large stockpot is included
• Stainless steel can be hard to clean
• Large skillet and large saute pan not included

The truth is, there are times when you just need a nonstick pan in the kitchen. This set is designed for the serious cook with practicality in mind. The starter 6-piece set comes with the basics including two 10-inch pans, a small saucepan and large stockpot. It's perfect for those with smaller kitchens but big cooking ambitions. The Made In nonstick pan is a top pick in testing and is a kitchen workhorse, perfect for eggs, pancakes, delicate fish and more. Made In's pots and pans remind our test kitchen chefs of restaurant-style cookware and are made to last. The clad design is sturdy and holds its own compared to higher-priced lines.

• Number of Pieces 6
• What's Included 10" stainless steel skillet, 10" nonstick skillet, 2-quart stainless saucepan with lid, 8-quart stockpot with lid
• Material Stainless steel with aluminum core
• Finish Type Nonstick interior on one skillet
• Dishwasher Safe Yes (except nonstick skillet)

Best Stainless Steel: All-Clad D3 Cookware Set

• Can be used under broiler
• Sizes etched on bottom

Hands down, this is the set you want if price is no object. Time and time again, testing shows that All-Clad browns perfectly evenly and keeps stews and sauces at a perfect simmer. What that means to you is that you won’t have to vigilantly rearrange, stir and adjust the heat during cooking. All gleaming stainless steel inside and out, it has a core of aluminum that’s responsible for its great results. We love the sloped shape of the skillets which make it easy to roll out an omelet. The handles are riveted onto the base which is a guarantee that they’ll never fall off. D3 can be used in the oven up to 600 degrees F, so you can finish off a piece of salmon in the oven or crisp up a skillet mac 'n cheese under the broiler. In this collection, you get all the essential pieces including an 8-quart stockpot for boiling spaghetti water or big batch soups. However, the sauté pan is only 8-inches in diameter so may want to supplement with a bigger covered skillet or saute pan for one-dish dinners. You can safely wash these pots and pans in the dishwasher and they are easy to clean by hand unless you sear over high heat and get spatters cooked onto the surface. Sizes are etched on the bottoms so you always know whether you’re grabbing the pan specified in your recipe.

• Number of Pieces 10
• What's Included 8.5" and 10.5" skillets, 2- and 3- quart saucepans with lids, 3-quart sauté pan with lid, 8-quart stockpot with lid
• Finish Type Polished stainless steel
• Dishwasher Safe Yes, but not recommended

• Reasonably priced
• Includes large stockpot

If you’re lusting after professional-looking stainless-steel cookware but don’t have the big bucks to shell out, this is the set for you. You’ll get solid performance whether you’re caramelizing onions or simmering a Bolognese. As the handles are rounded, they offer a comfortable grip. This collection offers you a lot of value for your money. In addition to the basic skillets and saucepans, you get a large sauté pan and a large 8-quart stockpot. The skillets are sloped which makes them perfect for turning out crepes and omelets. While you’re pretty much covered for all your cooking needs, we do wish a 12-inch skillet was included. Tramontina can be placed in the oven up to a temp of 500 degrees F, which should be more than enough for everything from keeping a casserole warm, to braising a pot roast, to browning off an apple crisp. Like all stainless, this cookware is dishwasher safe but is prone to some discoloration over time.

• Number of Pieces 12
• What's Included 8" and 10" fry pans, 1.5-, 2-, and 3-quart covered saucepans with lids, 6-quart deep sauté pan with lid, and 8-quart stockpot with lid

What's Material Cookware Set Should You Buy?

• Copper cookware heats the most evenly and is the most responsive (meaning, take your pan of hollandaise off the burner and it stops cooking immediately so there’s no danger it will curdle). But copper is super pricey and requires a lot of upkeep if you want to maintain its bright, shiny finish.
• Aluminum is next-best at heat distribution. However, when you cook directly in aluminum some of the metal leaches into your food, giving it a gray-ish cast. The vast majority of aluminum cookware has some kind of finish, either enamel or nonstick, to prevent this from happening and also make it easier to clean. Some aluminum pans are hard-anodized, which means they’ve undergone an electrochemical process that strengthens and darkens the metal, protecting if from denting and stopping it from interacting with whatever you’re cooking. Aluminum cookware can’t be used on an induction burner unless it has a layer of stainless steel in the base.
• Stainless steel is prized for its beautiful appearance and durability. However, it’s a poor conductor of heat. Any stainless cookware “worth its salt” will be either clad, meaning it has an interior core of aluminum that extends through the base and up the side, or will have a layer of aluminum in the bottom to give even heating. Cookware made of stainless steel is pricey and grease splatters can be difficult to clean off .
• Nonstick cookware sets offer easy cooking and cleanup, especially for new cooks in the kitchen, but the coatings don't last forever and some have concerns about their safety . Read on for how to choose the right nonstick cookware set for you.

Are Nonstick Cookware Sets Safe?

There’s no argument with the fact that nonstick coatings keep food from sticking and make cleanup easier. However, these finishes don’t last forever; eventually they will lose their stick resistant properties. That might not bother you if you bought an inexpensive omelet pan but can be upsetting if you’ve invested in an expensive set.

Although there is no evidence that traditional nonstick coatings are toxic or harmful to cook in , they can release fumes if they overheat, which can happen if you preheat an empty nonstick pan or use it over very high heat. If you want the benefits of a nonstick coating but want to minimize any risks, you can opt for a ceramic nonstick coating. While these finishes, which are derived from sand, are not quite as good at releasing food and not as long-lasting, they can be safely used at higher heats .

What Pieces Does a Cookware Set Need?

Keep in mind that some of the items are lids and sometimes the manufacturer throws in a few plastic utensils and adds them to the piece count.

• Every kitchen should have 8- and 10- inch skillets as well as a larger covered 12-inch skillet or straight-sided sauté pan. We give points to sets that include a 12-incher as it’s such a versatile pan for frying, stir-frying and one-pot dishes like paella or chicken with dumplings. And while you can always pick up a reasonably-priced small fry pan for eggs and crepes, filling in your set with a large pan, can set you back a bit.
• Every set will also include one or two saucepans and, again, larger ones are more useful as you can warm a cup of soup in a 3-quart pot but might not be able to make enough rice for the whole family in a 1-quart.
• Lastly, a piece that doubles as a stockpot or Dutch oven is always one component of a set. A 6-quart pot is plenty big enough for a batch of soup or stew and boiling water for pasta, but if you’re a pasta purist, who wouldn’t think of boiling your spaghetti in a pot smaller than 8 quarts, you may want to see if one is included.

Is All Cookware Induction Compatible?

Simply put, no. If you have an induction cooktop , you'll want to make sure whatever cookware set you choose in induction compatible . In general, stainless steel sets are induction compatible because they have an aluminum core that conducts heat. Nonstick sets with stainless steel bases can be induction compatible, but it's important to check the manufacturer's packaging. You can also test your current cookware for induction compatibility with a magnet. If the magnet sticks to your cookware, it's induction compatible.

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• Best overall
• Best upgrade
• Best nonstick
• Best ceramic
• Best copper
• Best cast iron
• What pieces should I look for?
• How we researched
• Best cookware materials

Cookware FAQs

The 7 best cookware sets in 2023, reviewed and ranked.

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Before you whip up late night scrambled eggs or make your family's secret tomato sauce, you need a set of cookware. Pots and pans are essentials in every kitchen, whether they're being used by avid home cooks or take-out connoisseurs. Purchasing a cookware set can be daunting, especially given the wide variety of materials and combinations of pieces. Finding a versatile set will help you outfit your kitchen with all the essentials in one fell swoop so all that's left to do is get cooking.

Based on our own experiences and conversations with chefs, food editors, and leaders of the Cookware Manufacturers Association , we determined the best cookware sets you can buy. For an all-purpose, durable set, we recommend the Tramontina 10-Piece Stainless Steel Set . The three layer construction gives you maximum durability and heat conductivity in each piece. If you have a tight budget and an empty kitchen, the T-fal Ultimate Hard Anodized Cookware Set will set you up for daily cooking and holiday feasts. It has more pieces that we think is necessary in a cookware set, but it's hard to pass up the affordable convenience. 

Learn more about how Insider Reviews tests and researches kitchen products .

Our top picks for the best cookware sets

Best overall: Tramontina Gourmet Tri-Ply Clad 10-Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Set - See at Amazon The Tramontina set stocks your kitchen without cluttering it, and features useful pieces in a durable material.

Best upgrade: All-Clad D3 Stainless Steel Cookware Set - See at Crate & Barrel If you splurge on an All-Clad Stainless Steel set, your kitchen will be stocked with essential pieces that stand the test of time.

Best nonstick: Made In Nonstick Set - See at Made In Made In's nonstick cookware set includes two pots and two pans to tackle just about any kitchen task. Plus, the nonstick coating makes clean-up a breeze.

Best cheap: T-fal Ultimate Hard-Anodized Cookware Set - See at Amazon If you need to stock your kitchen quickly and on a budget, the T-fal Hard-Anodized Set is easy to maintain, scratch resistant, and comes with two serving utensils.

Best ceramic: Caraway Ceramic Coated Set - See at Amazon The Caraway Ceramic Coated Set is an eco-friendly alternative to traditional nonstick pots and pans — and it's available in six attractive colors.

Best copper: Williams Sonoma Thermo-Clad Copper Set - See at Williams Sonoma The Williams Sonoma Thermo-Clad Copper Set is a great intro to copper set, offering the heating abilities of copper and the accessibility of stainless steel.

Best cast iron: Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Cookware Set - See at Amazon Le Creuset's cast iron cookware set comes in a wide variety of colors with one saucepan, one skillet, and one Dutch oven. The brand's signature enameled coating eliminates the need for seasoning, making cooking and clean-up easier.

Best overall: Tramontina Gourmet Tri-Ply Clad 10-Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Set

Pros: Includes essential pieces, tri-ply construction for durability 

Cons: Oven safe temperature on the low end

When we asked King Phojanakong, chef at the Institute of Culinary Education , which pots and pans were must-haves, he listed a 5-quart Dutch oven, 12-inch saute pan, and 3-quart saucepan, all of which (or similar versions of) are included in Tramontina's cookware set. The versatility of these pieces is the selling point: Phojanakong uses the saute pan for chicken dishes or baby bok choy, and takes out the 3-quart saucepan when he needs to heat up leftover soups and sauces and cook rice or small portions of pasta. 

Not only is the Tramontina set's practical range of sizes — with cookware scaled for both individual meals and large gatherings — one of its major assets, but so is its durable construction. 

"Stainless steel is the most universal material. You don't have to treat it gently," said Lisa Chernick , author of " Your Starter Kitchen ." Each piece in the Tramontina set is made up of an aluminum core sandwiched between 18/10 stainless steel layers. This tri-ply construction gives you the excellent heat conductivity of aluminum with the strength of stainless steel. 

You can purchase the individual components separately, though the set offers the best deal. There are also smaller and larger sets, but the 10-piece has all the essentials and no unnecessary extras.

Best upgrade: All-Clad D3 Stainless Steel Cookware Set

Pros: High oven safe temperature, thick gauge aluminum core

Cons: Fry pans on the small side, not dishwasher safe

Our best overall pick, which is also stainless steel, is less expensive and offers much of the same benefits as this All-Clad set. However, the longevity and durability of the All-Clad D3 line may make it worth spending the extra money, depending on your cooking needs. 

The All-Clad D3 cookware set has the highest oven-safe temperature in this guide: 600 degrees. The ability to withstand such high heat also improves the performance of the casserole dish or stock pot as a substitute Dutch oven. And as Chernick mentioned, more experienced cooks may want to brown something on the stovetop and then put it in the oven.

We should note that while these All-Clad pots and pans hold up in the oven, you're better off hand-washing them than putting them in the dishwasher, which is something to consider if keeping cleanup time to a minimum is important.

Best nonstick: Made In Nonstick Set

Pros: Handles stay cool while cooking, stock pot can be used as Dutch oven, large frying pan

Cons: Not dishwasher safe, limited options for cooking smaller portions 

Nonstick cookware is easier to clean than almost any other material and decreases the amount of oil you need to use while cooking. Made In's set offers pots and pans in an ideal variety of sizes. Each piece is made from five-ply stainless steel, which results in quick heating and even heat distribution. The pots and pans are coated with two PFOA-free nonstick layers. 

Each piece features an ergonomic handle design, with one handle on the frying pan and two helpful handles on the three other pieces, making them easy to carry from stovetop to a trivet on the table for serving. The stock pot is exclusively sold with this set, and is oven safe up to 500 degrees, making it an acceptable Dutch oven substitute.

While the pieces in this set are not dishwasher safe and should be washed by hand, the nonstick coating makes scrubbing a lot easier. Just remember to never heat up an empty nonstick pan and always avoid using metal utensils that can scratch or chip the nonstick interior.

Check out the other pans we recommend in our guide to the best nonstick skillets .

Best cheap: T-fal Ultimate Hard-Anodized Cookware Set

Pros: Dishwasher safe, large frying pans, Dutch oven

Cons: No pot larger than 4 quarts, saute pan does not have a lid

The exteriors of all the pots and pans in T-fal's cookware set are hard-anodized aluminum, a material resistant to scratches, while the interiors are glazed with nonstick coating and reinforced with strengthening titanium. This durability (plus the low price point) is part of the reason why we named a similar set by T-Fal the best budget pick in our guide to the best hard-anodized cookware.

Insider reporter James Brains has used a comparable T-fal set since 2018. He said that the pieces have held up well through daily use, though he recommends hand washing the fry pans to preserve the nonstick coating.

The largest pot in this 12-piece collection is only five quarts, but if you're not hosting a party, that should be big enough for pasta night. Plus, the set includes a serving spoon and a slotted spatula, so you'll be ready to dole out dinner. 

Ring-shaped thermo spot indicators turn red when the pans get hot, which can take some of the guesswork out of properly preheating — especially for less experienced cooks. 

Check out our guide to the best hard anodized cookware sets .

Best ceramic: Caraway Ceramic Coated Set

Pros: Includes storage system, aluminum core for rapid heating

Cons: No larger fry pan, ceramic coating isn't as durable as stainless or other metals

Though this set is on the smaller side, Caraway's set has everything you need to get cooking. The 6.5-quart Dutch oven can be your pasta pot or serving dish for large meals, and the 4.5-quart saute pan is perfect for large fry-ups. I tested the Caraway Home set and found each piece to have excellent heat retention and useful design details. However, I don't think the included storage system adds much to the set. 

Caraway's signature, and part of why it earned a spot on our list of the best cookware sets, is its ceramic nonstick coating. Ceramic coatings offer the same nonstick properties as traditional ones, but contain no trace elements of PFOA, PFTE, lead, or cadmium. Caraway cookware has an aluminum core that ensures rapid and even heating, while the coating decreases your need for oil and makes the surface easier to clean.

The Caraway Home set is shipped in recycled cardboard with no plastic bags. Plus, the ceramic coating releases less CO2 when manufactured than traditional nonstick coatings.  (Though keep in mind that all nonstick coatings, including ceramic, are less durable than stainless steel and other metals.)

Read our full review of the Caraway Home Cookware Set .

Best copper: Williams Sonoma Thermo-Clad Copper Set

Pros:  Double-wall insulated lids, nonreactive interior 

Cons:  Not the thickest gauge copper, stainless steel lining limits some of the diffusivity

Copper provides the most efficient and even heating of any metal used in the best cookware. Since copper is a reactive metal, most cookware is lined with a nonreactive interior like tin or stainless steel. The Williams Sonoma Thermo-Clad Copper Set has a stainless steel interior, so you can worry less about cooking acidic foods. 

This set includes all the pieces we think are necessary for a well-stocked kitchen and the 1.2 mm copper exterior is striking enough to display when you're not cooking. The Thermo-Clad cookware is oven safe to 450 degrees, but you should never heat up an empty copper pan.

For more guidance on how to take care of your copper pots and pans, check out our guide to the best copper cookware .

Best cast iron: Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Cookware Set

Pros: Dishwasher safe, stain resistant, enamel exterior boosts heat retention

Cons: No larger saucepan, has potential to scratch or chip

Le Creuset has been a household name for over 100 years, and the brand's cookware set offers a combination of approachable pieces to get started with cast iron cooking. Cast iron pans are incredibly versatile, allowing you to sear meats, make hash browns, and even bake bread.

This set comes with a Dutch oven, one small saucepan, and a large skillet. We've tested the skillet and the Dutch oven , and both pieces are top picks in our guides. The Le Creuset Dutch oven can be utilized on the stovetop for big pots of soup or stew, as well as in the oven up to 500 degrees, whether you're baking homemade sourdough or prepping braised pot roast. All of the lids are safe for oven use as well, so moving from stovetop to oven is easy. 

With the enamel coating, there's no need to season the cast iron. Each piece in the set is easy to clean and can be washed either in the dishwasher or by hand. Plus, you can choose from a wide variety of colors to match your kitchen's design. The brand also offers an 11-piece set, but this smaller set offers the best overall value for essential cast iron pieces.    

Check out our guide to the best cast iron skillets we've tested.

What pieces should I look for in a cookware set?

How we researched cookware sets.

While we haven't yet tested all the sets in this guide firsthand, our picks are based off of extensive research and expert interviews. Here are the factors we considered when choosing the best cookware sets:

Pieces: The first thing we did was establish a list of essential pieces all cookware sets should have. Our three experts agreed that quality is more important than quantity when it comes to cookware. Chernick, Battiliana, and Phojanakong each suggested a pared down list of essential pieces. 

Cooktop compatibility: Most kitchens come with gas or electric stoves, but the best induction cooktops are becoming more and more popular. We looked for sets that work on the largest variety of stovetops, giving extra points to those that worked on induction. 

Materials: We identified the pros and cons of different cookware materials, which you can see here . Chernick recommended stainless steel for cookware sets because it can handle the wear and tear of a busy kitchen, and we agree. Stainless steel is durable, doesn't require special maintenance, and cooks most things well. 

Construction: We considered the construction of each cookware set. Besides cast iron, most cookware is made by layering different metals. This increases the heat conductivity of less conductive metals; for instance, stainless steel pans often have aluminum cores because aluminum heats up much quicker. Having multiple layers also makes the cookware more durable. Battiliana said there is a connection between performance and quality, as thinner metal pans will wear out faster than better constructed pans.

What is the best cookware material?

Should i get nonstick cookware.

Nonstick cookware is great if you want to cook with less fat or procrastinate on clean-up. The slick coating is easy to clean and limits your use of oil or butter. However, nonstick pans don't brown food as well as cast iron or stainless steel, and you shouldn't expect a nonstick pan to last more than a couple years before the coating starts to come off.

Check out our guide to the best nonstick skillets if you want to try one before buying a set. If you're looking to get a good sear on a piece of steak or crisp up potatoes, choose a different material.

When should I get rid of a pot or pan?

If the handles start to wiggle, you need to tighten them or throw out the piece. Chef Phojanakong said to look at the rivets and welding on the handles for signs of looseness.  It's not safe if you can't handle your pan with ease. 

Most nonstick coatings will scratch if you regularly use metal utensils on them. It's up to you whether or not this means you have to throw the pan away. For Chernick, once a nonstick pan is scratched, it's time to say goodbye: "It might not be toxic, but I don't want to eat pieces of Teflon."

What makes cookware induction safe?

Cookware needs to have magnetic properties in order to work on an induction stovetop, according to the Cookware Manufacturer's Association. If the cookware material is not magnetic, a magnetic plate is applied to the base in order to make it induction safe. The manufacturer will clearly label the induction capabilities of the cookware.

How to care for my cookware set

Proper care of a cookware set depends on the material each piece is made from. Washing and drying pots and pans according to the manufacturer's recommendations will help extend the life of your set. Pots and pans with a coating, such as nonstick or enamel, require a gentler approach to cleaning. For these materials, it's best to avoid abrasive cleaning tools like steel wool.

You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here . Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

• Main content

5 Best Stock Pots, According to Testing

Simmer down! We'll tell you exactly which stock pots are worth your money for broth, soup, stew, pasta and more.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Our top picks:

Best Overall Stock Pot

All-clad stainless steel tri-ply bonded stockpot with lid.

Best Value Stock Pot

Cuisinart multiclad pro triple ply stockpot with cover.

Best 8-Quart Stock Pot

Hestan nanobond stainless steel stock pot.

Best 10-Quart Stock Pot

Le creuset enamel-on-steel covered stockpot.

Best Stock Pot with Glass Lid

Calphalon signature hard-anodized nonstick stock pot with cover.

The experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab test all kinds of cookware, including Dutch ovens , stainless steel and nonstick pans and cast iron and carbon steel skillets. When looking for the top stock pots, we timed how long it took to bring a nearly full pot to a boil and also noted whether it was easy to transport and pour from the large, hot pots. We evaluated the fit of the lid as well as the style and comfort of the handles. We also washed the pots by hand and ensure that they would fit in a standard dishwasher (as applicable).

Read on for more about how we tested and to learn what to look for when shopping for a stock pot. In the market for more large cookware? Check out our reviews of the top woks and sheet pans .

All-Clad has a track record of durable, high-performing cookware. In fact, the brand's D5 cookware set is among our top picks for great stainless steel cookware sets . Our kitchen pros have used All-Clad products for years and like this pick for its tight-fitting lid. It helps to speed up cook times, and it's a boon when you're steaming (lobster, anyone?) because it helps to trap steam.

The downside is that the handles' rivets are not flush inside the pot. This can make the area around them harder to clean and can lead to discoloration over time.

Cuisinart products have performed well in numerous Lab tests. The brand is even one of our recommendations for the best ceramic cookware sets . And this stock pot was no exception. It came to a boil fairly quickly, and we like that it has wide, flat side handles that make it feel secure to lift. The lid's handle is also wide, so you can get a good grip even with an oven mitt. The performance for the price is a great value.

But take note if you have strength issues: This was one of the heavier pots in our test.

Hestan's eight-quart stock pot did great in our tests. It was on the quicker end in our boil tests, but what our pros really liked is that it was the lightest weight pot in our tests. This means you're less likely to struggle when lifting a full pot out of the oven — it's oven safe to 1,050˚F (!), the highest of those we tested — or pouring from it when draining pasta or potatoes. It had a tight-fitting lid, which helps speed up cooking.

Our caveat: It's an expensive pot. But it's a solid choice if you're comfortable investing in long-lasting. If you want more: The NanoBond set is our top pick for stainless steel cookware sets .

Le Creuset is known for its gorgeous enameled cast iron Dutch ovens — the brand's 5.5-quart model is our best overall Dutch oven — and it has brought that high-quality coating to this stock pot. We love the color, but it's the performance that stands out: The 10-quart size has a roomy vaulted lid for steaming, and the enamel coating reduces sticking and makes the pot easy to clean. The rivet-less handles also contribute to the easy cleaning since they keep the interior smooth. We also appreciate the stainless steel rim, which decreases the likelihood of chipping (so you can rap your spoon on the edge as needed).

One note is that the enamel coating does give the pot a bit more heft than uncoated pots might have, so take that into consideration if you have strength or mobility issues.

Calphalon's eight-quart stock pot stands out from the mostly all-stainless-steel pots we tested because it is nonstick and has a tempered glass lid. The glass lid is useful when you want to keep an eye on what you're cooking, but we will note that — as with any cookware with a glass lid — condensation will form on the underside when you're boiling and even simmering and will generally obscure your view at some point. But the nonstick coating means you can use less fat when cooking, and it makes cleanup easier.

The pot has a narrow design, so it was not the fastest to boil in our tests, but it produced evenly cooked pasta and was easy to pour from. It's also oven safe to 500˚F (though not broiler safe).

How we test the best stock pots

We test all types of pots and pans in the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances Lab, whether nonstick, stainless steel, carbon steel, cast iron or copper . When we test any kind of cookware, we assess how quickly it responds to heat as well as how it retains it over time.

When evaluating stock pots, we time how long it takes for a nearly full pot to reach a boil. We take the temperature of the pot's lid and side handles, and we cook pasta to check the texture and to learn what it's like to transfer and pour from a hot, heavy pot. We also note whether the pot is easy to clean.

What to look for when shopping for the best stock pot

Here's what you should consider, whether you're buying your stock pot by itself or selecting a cookware set that includes one.

✔️ Capacity: The most common volume for a stock pot is eight quarts. This size is big enough to simmer broth as well as to make sizeable batches of pasta or chili . It's often the size included in cookware sets, and it's reasonably easy to store. If you cook for a larger crowd or often work with larger foods, like lobster, you might want a 10-, 12-, 14- or 16-quart size. The larger-capacity pots tend to be a bit taller and narrower, which can make reaching in to stir a little more difficult, especially for shorter cooks.

✔️ Handles: The most important consideration for pot handles is that they're comfortable for you. We like side handles that flare or extend away from the body of the pot to protect your hands from the heat. We also prefer a flat or contoured surface that helps ensure a firm grip — these pots can be quite heavy when they're full. Some may have a textured or coated grip, but this feature can be less common on stock pots than on saucepans or skillets. Our pros also suggest checking how the handle is attached to the pot: A flush rivet creates a smooth surface inside the pot, which makes it easier to clean.

✔️ Lid: Stock pot lids are generally stainless steel or glass (or perhaps copper, if the pot itself is). Stainless steel lids often provide better heat retention, but you can't see inside the pot without lifting them. Glass lids let you glimpse what's happening inside the pan initially, but condensation might obscure the view as the cooking continues, so our experts say the top priority is a tight fit. We also like a handle or knob that's tall enough to keep your hand away from the hot surface. But note that particularly tall handles can make the lid harder to store.

✔️ Material: Most of the pots we tested in our recent round were stainless steel. This is a good choice because it's compatible with all cooktops (including induction), it heats quickly and is relatively lightweight for lifting and pouring. Nonstick pots are handy if you're making dishes like one-pot pasta, which might have sticky ingredients. But because stock pots are commonly used for liquids like broth and soup, the nonstick coating isn't highly necessary and may reduce the lifespan of your pot. Copper is a responsive and versatile material that may heat even more quickly than stainless steel, but it can be expensive and may show dings and scratches more readily, so it may not stand up to as many years of clanging around as a stainless steel pot might.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Sarah Wharton is a deputy editor in the Good Housekeeping Institute . She lead the Kitchen Appliances Lab's testing of stock pots, and she has tested a variety of other cooking gear, including fish spatulas and carbon steel pans . She is a graduate of the International Culinary Center (now the Institute of Culinary Education) and has been cooking professionally since 2017.

Sarah (she/her) is a deputy editor in the Good Housekeeping Institute , where she tests products and covers the best picks across kitchen, tech, health and food. She has been cooking professionally since 2017 and has tested kitchen appliances and gear for Family Circle as well as developed recipes and food content for Simply Recipes, Martha Stewart Omnimedia, Oxo and Food52. She holds a certificate in professional culinary arts from the International Culinary Center (now the Institute of Culinary Education).

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