Reddit mentions: The best open fire cookware

I went winter camping my first time in the mountains in Alberta this September... went as low as -10 Celsius at night. These are the tips people gave me for my first backcountry trip in the cold (and I actually had a good and comfortable time):

1. Ideas to stay warm: bring hand warmers, the up-to-10-hours kind. They’re little chemical packets that you shake and the reaction generates heat. These were life savers at night - we put a couple in our sleeping bags with us and they kept the coldest parts of my body warm right till morning. It was actually pretty great. Another user suggested boiling a pot of water, filling your Nalgene bottle and going to sleep with that hot bottle to keep you warm. We didn’t try this but I was prepared. Bonus, you wake up with clean water to drink, haha! The hand warmers were good enough for me, though.
   
   .... I was backpacking for the first time and so I spent a couple hundred dollars on kit and the like, and didn’t have the funds to buy an insulated mat to sleep on when the weather turned south on us a couple days before the trip. I did have a sleeping mat, it just didn’t insulate between me and the ground. But the mats are actually really cheap so if you can work it in, you should get something like this.
   
   The cold earth beneath you will suck all the warmth out of you while you sleep which is why it’s important to make sure you’re either off the ground or have sufficient insulation between you and the ground.
   
   
2. bring two tarps! One to fold underneath your tent (make sure it doesn’t stick out or anything or snow/water will pool between the tarp and your tent and that’s miserable) and one to put over your tent/over the entrance to your tent/over your outside resting area. Waking up to fresh snow in the morning and having to shovel snow out of the fire pit or off a picnic table was super miserable. Haha. And not to mention, this obviously leaves the picnic table and fire pit wet. There were times in my 4 day adventure last month where I thought I’d never know what warmth or dryness was ever again... was really thankful for some other kind backpackers who had a really sweet set up and shared their fire/dry picnic table with us.
   
   
3. This was easy to use and perfect for two people. You don’t need a fire to cook with this. Just buy a little fuel tank (the smallest one will be fine for you if you’re only going for two days, depending on how often you think you’ll need it... assuming you’ll also cook over the fire). It would work for more people, you’ll just have to cook for one person at a time. We used this to cook noodles, breakfast, boil water for drinking, boil water for coffee, rice... oh, cooking in the wilderness was actually my favourite part. This was especially handy after a long long long day of paddling/hiking where we were too lazy to make a fire but needed something to warm up our insides. It’s fast. Easy to clean.
   
   Bring extra socks! Layer up, avoid wearing anything cotton. Your clothes keep you warm by trapping warm air between your body and the outside - if you sweat or if the cotton gets wet from melting snow or something, the little air pockets in cotton fill up with the cold moisture and just makes you cold. I was perfectly comfortable wearing gym leggings under waterproof pants. I wore a polyester first top layer, and then throughout the day would add or take off a water resistant puffy jacket and a rain shell jacket. Fleece is excellent too! At night I would change into clean clothes, sleep in them, and then in the morning I was able to just crawl out and get my day started. I found this less miserable than waking up first thing in the morning, in the cold, not wanting to leave my warm sleeping bag... and having to change before I even started moving getting my blood flowing. Haha. But that’s just me, everyone’s different.
   
   I hope you have a lot of fun, I’m insanely jealous! I would like to try winter camping but I don’t know have much of an outdoorsy friend group where I live and I’m not brave enough to go alone just get. Haha.
   
   
   
   
   
   

There are a lot of really cool camping things! I'll be back to edit this post on my computer with some things that we like / are unique /cool

EDIT - these are things that we use that we love. These things all range in price, so hopefully you can find one or two to fit whatever budget you have.

• Collapsible Coffee Dripper : They can use this to make REAL coffee on the trail. They just have to heat water!
  
• Portable camping grill : This takes a little time to set up, but it's a very compact grill and makes it easy to cook food or even just balance your mess kit
  
• Nonstick camping mess kit : A nonstick kit is much easier to clean than a stainless steel one IMO. this set has a kettle, utensil, and scrubber which is awesome.
  
• Camp Suds : An environmentally safe soap so they can clean their gear but preserve the trail!
  
• Dry sacks : Dry sacks are just what they sound like... waterproof bags that keep your stuff dry. They can also double as a pillow if you stuff clothes in them!
  
• Portable camping stove : This little guy connects to a small fuel canister and gives you a nice little stove. These are great for heating water / soup as they provide a better heat source than a fire you'd build.
  
• Food dehydrator : This is not something they'd take camping, but it can really help them to save money on meals. If they are backpacking, they likely won't want to carry around cans of food and won't be able to carry around ingredients that would go bad. The dehydrator allows them to make their own backpacking meals that they will reconstitute with water.
  
• Pocket bellows : allows you to stoke the fire without having to get your face super close. Also this lets you target a small area.
  
• LED light bulb ; This does require a portable battery but it's really great to have this little guy. We use it in the tent at night or when we're hanging out but need a little light to chop food/etc.
  
• Pocket chain saw : Cut big pieces of wood! It takes some muscle, but it really does work and it's a lot smaller than a hatchet or actual chain saw..
  
• Literally the best backpacking chair : when you're backpacking, you have to carry EVERYTHING with you. So that means that stuff has to be light and small. These chairs are great, because (for chairs) they tick off both of those boxes. They have a back! And they are big enough to actually sit on!
  
  Other general items that are useful: Climbing/heavy duty carabiners (to clip stuff to other stuff. you can even get locking ones); water filters (if you get a Lifestraw, I recommend the water bottle. The actual Lifestraw is an interesting idea, but we've found in practice it's a little awkward); hammocks with nice straps; base layers; battery-operated lights of any kind (especially ones that clip or are hands-free); a set of waterproof cards (to pass the time on a break); nice, wicking socks; hiking poles; a camping knife.
  
  I haven't tried Cairn (the camping sub box) but they always look interesting.
  

Stansport Scout, about as basic a tent as you can find. You can find others on Amazon, but they're all pretty much the same. I used one in the 70's as a Scout and I really wouldn't use one today for a lot of reasons... but the main one was that it was hard to get in and out as a teen without knocking the pole out of place and collapsing the tent (or have others steal your poles in the middle of the night). Can't see it being easy as an adult to get in and out without knocking over the poles.

Klymit Static V. Pretty good pad for the price. Of course you can find cheaper knock-offs, but this one is fairly well rated and comfortable enough and warm enough for three seasons. But if you want something for winter, you'll need something a lot more expensive like the Exped Downmat 9.

A sleeping bag down to -18C, think you need to go with a good bag like the Feathered Friends Widgeon. Not something I'd like to carry with me during the summer, you might want to pick up a nice 30F bag for the other three seasons.

Amazon Basics now carries a very popular cookset. The Etekcity Stove is a good stove for the price; the quality isn't as good as the MSR Pocket Rocket 2, but you get two for $20 which is a really good deal. While you can buy one for $15, might as well spend a few extra bucks and get a spare.

As for the FAK, I try to carry the smallest one possible, one that I've whipped together based on what I usually need. However, if you're looking for a bug-out bag, you may want a nice big kit like the Adventure Medical Sportsman Series which can deal with more serious wounds. Still, you can just look around, there plenty of lists for building your own kit.

The other thing you'll need is a water purifier. The ones backpackers use like the Sawyer Squeeze are considered "filters", they're designed to draw water from clean fresh sources and can fliter out things like Crypto and Giardia but not pollutants like heavy metals or pesticides; for a bug out bag you may want a more expensive purifier that can remove heavy metals and chemicals. Actually don't have a recommendation there... but you could just pick up a Sawyer and make sure you draw from clean sources.

I am going to point you over to Adventures in Stoving, made by /u/hikin_jim which has more information than you'll probably ever need.

Some brief thoughts, from my own experience:

I have a JetBoil Flash and quite like it. It can handle about 600-700ml of water at once as long as you pay attention, and take it from ice cold glacier water to boiling in a scant few minutes. It's efficient on fuel, too.

Most of the time while I'm out backpacking though, I carry a Soto Amicus and a 750ml titanium pot. Most of my trips are shorter, so I can use one of the littlest cans of fuel, and the whole kit fits into the pot. It's light, and does the job well. It's surprisingly wind resistant for an open stove. Does take a little longer to boil than the above mentioned Flash. When I hike with a partner, he carries a single larger can of fuel, and we take turns cooking.

I'm usually happy with boiling water a couple of times per meal - for example, boil 500ml to make coffee in the morning, and then take the leftover hot water that didn't go into my coffee mug, add some more cold stuff, and re-boil to put in my oatmeal. I can wait for the second boil while sipping my coffee. This does get cumbersome when sharing the stove, though - breakfast and dinner both involve 3-4 boils of water and the Jetboil's greater speed and efficiency becomes useful, especially on longer trips.

I don't think that there is a reasonably sized backpacking stove that could support more than two people, so I just plan accordingly. I'm also not aware of anything that I would want to carry a huge distance that's capable of boiling a full liter of water (at least not without my hiking partner taking something else off of my back). Such stoves do exist though, there's the Jetboil sumo that has a 1.8L pot, a 1.7L MSR Reactor, 1.8L MSR WindBurner, and also the MSR Windburner Group with a 2.5L pot. You could also just use a larger pot with a PocketRocket, Amicus, etc. I'm not sure what the boil time would look like though, and you might want to do some testing to know how much fuel you can expect to need. Great options, but they are a weight penalty to fill a need that I do not have.

Keep in mind that a "1L" pot is typically measured as "1 litre fills it right to the brim" so if you want to boil a full litre of water, you need more room so it doesn't boil over.

I also have a BRS-3000T. It's tiny and weighs very little, but performance goes down the drain in the slightest of breezes, and there have been a number of concerns over build quality and quality control, so I don't use it.

For coffee:

When I'm backpacking, I will drink Alpine Start, or as a second choice Starbucks Via. Alpine start is the first "fancy" instant coffee that I've seen in local shops up here in Canada, and I really like it. To give you a reference point, my at-home coffee setup is a hand grinder and a Chemex, using very fresh beans from a local roaster. I like nice coffee, but I also think that my enjoyment of coffee outdoors is biased because would you look at that lake and mountain holy crow is there any better possible place to sip coffee?

That is to say, I'm probably willing to drink somewhat lower quality java because the scenery more than makes up for it, but I've also had both Alpine Start and Via as rush/backup options at home or travelling, and even without gorgeous mountains I've been okay with Via, and quite enjoyed Alpine Start.

The camping coffee market up here is starting to grow and I'm eyeing up these little weird unfolding filter bag things. I'm eager to try it out, but i feel like for backpacking I might bot be the biggest fan of packing the used grounds and little filter bag out. I generally try to minimize the garbage I'll have by planning ahead, and the teeny packet of instant coffee is about the best you could manage.

​

Okay, cool. A few things to start off with:

• first and foremost, read the FAQs. Good primer in there, and search/read the subreddit itself for more specific stuff. We've covered a lot around here, and multiple times. Soak it in, digest it a bit, then apply the best option to suit your situation.
  
  
• good job coming back around to reply directly to my and Independent's comments; that gives us a notification on our next login, so we know you were talking back, and links us back here to read and reply. You have no idea how many people new to this site don't figure that out for months, and it displays that you have the initiative and problem solving skills to get by. Breathe a bit easier, you're not doin' too bad.
  
  
• Your back/neck issues probably aren't as restrictive as you (we?) may have thought; I'm missing some small portions of my back (with no idea where they went), I have nerve damage in my neck, back, and arms, and several other vertebrae/disks are generally pretty pissed off about what I've done to them. I get around pretty well, though I'm a bit vocal when I do it, grunting and groaning my way about most days. There's plenty more like us, too, and it's good fortune that your physical issues aren't as oppressive as they could be. That'll come in handy later as well.
  
  
• You may well be able to skip out on a roof fan. I've never had a roof fan in any of my own vans (though a couple had unpowered vents), and have gotten along fine. I historically buy the $13 clip-on 12v fan from WalMart once or twice a year (they wear out, but are cheap enough to consider disposable), and run them off an extra battery I install. Times are changing, though, and I've recently found USB-rechargeable battery-operated fans by Holmes at Target - $15, but claims a 6-hour battery life on low. One fan blowing in and on you will help you feel cool enough to sleep, while cycling out air to remove the moisture you put off, so you don't have condensation forming and leading to hidden mold issues. You can recharge these, little USB power-packs, and some other key items while running the van through regular course, then unplug them for use during van-off time, so you don't drain your starter battery. I'm not a fan of those O2Breeze guys, because I hate swapping batteries constantly, which would be a considerable expenditure for a full-timer.
  
  
• For showering, I'll suggest first that you look into Planet Fitness Black Card. It's $20/month, and gives you unlimited showers, filtered water, massage chairs, WiFi, restrooms, and some other minor perks at any of their locations. If you'll be near any major metro area, this covers daily hygeine. When I stuck more around-town, I'd often visit twice per day - once for hygeine needs, and again just to relax, use the wifi, and work on me. If you can find some secluded enough spots to do it, you can clip your tarp to your opened van door(s) to make a temporary shower stall, then use something like a pump-pressure garden sprayer to hose yourself down and wash up. For a bit less workout to accomplish that, you can also score a rechargeable shower pump that simply drops into a jug with a wide-enough mouth. My similar model does ~20 showers per charge.
  
  
• Cooking is its own can of worms, but I'm a cheap bastard thrifty individual, and have built a poor-man's portable kitchen setup a few times over. I usually start with some basics from Dollar Tree to get me started - tongs, a grill grate, paperware, food containers, etc can get you by until you can "spend" on something better, and most of their food doesn't need refrigeration. Here's what my current everyday-use kitchen setup consists of:
  
  

1. Gerber ComplEAT - this really has everything you need-need except a knife, and I just use my everyday-carry pocket knife most often to complement it. Long-handled fork and spoon, spatula, veggie peeler, package/can/bottle opener, and tongs all in one very-portable set. I mostly use it just for cooking. Again, I'm cheap, so I eyed it for a long time before splurging on it (the $20-something version), and I can't complain.
   
   
2. Backpacker pot/stove kit - half the cost of my previous 3-pot kit, and comes with the stove! Perfect size for soloers, and under $25. The stove, can of gas, a couple paper towel layers between to avoid scratches and rattling, and another small item or two all fit inside the can. It comes with a mesh bag, and the Gerber set slides down in alongside it, just barely poking out the top. The $5 can of gas lasts me a whole month, at one or two uses per day, often just to boil water or warm something up.
   
   
3. Magellan Camp Cooking Knife - $8, and this is what I use as my tableware. TWO of these will fit inside the above pot/stove kit, with the stove, gas, and paper towel layers between.
   
   
4. A bag of charcoal - This and those dollar-store tongs enables you to utilize any park or campsite grill you come across, which you can totally use the linked pot kit on while grilling food, adding flavor, and enjoying the outdoors. I try to do dinner most days like this, weather-permitting.
   
   
5. Cheap camp shovel and/or machete - either can be used to dig a Dakota Fire Pit (if your back can handle it; it's pretty minor labor), which observes Leave No Trace rules, is low-key, and super-efficient. The main hole can be a single shovel-head wide, and the air hole needn't be wider than the shovel handle. Ignore the "direction of wind" arrow in the linked diagram; it makes its own draft by design. Another excellent application of the above pot kit, and the fuel is free.
   
   
6. Stainless steel camp mugs - I have an older Marlboro branded set that was given to me, but these can be had for as little as $2 each. They serve as my own cups/bowls, and my dog's water dish.
   
   
7. THE DOG! - I've yet to find a better dishwasher. Especially with stainless or anodized aluminum, this cuts cleanup down to sanitization, and they're happy to do it. My dog is quite small, and so I just chuck a handful of kibble into a recently-dirtied pot, and set 'er down.
   
   
8. Wilderness Wash - This is actually my everything-soap. I use it to wash dishes, my belongings, and myself. Rinses clean, is as environmentally-safe as it gets (though still don't put it on the ground within a few hundred feet of a water source or rain gutter) and super-portable, and is the only product I've found yet that can cut diesel grime (from my day job), yet doesn't make my skin break out. A dime-sized drop does all the dishes, quarter-size does me, and a 3oz bottle lasts me all month.
   
   
9. Viva brand paper towels - another one-product wonder. They're really similar to the blue "shop towels" you find at the auto parts store, but are white, soft, super-sturdy, and hella-absorbent. They're a little expensive as paper towels go, but I use them as paper plates, automotive rags, for cleaning, sweat towels, and even toilet paper (when the toilet isn't of the flush variety).
   
   All this (except the dog) fits in a 5-gallon bucket if you put it all together, but I keep the machete, shovel, grill grate, charcoal, and a small BBQ in the back, and the kitchen-y stuff altogether amidships where I usually am.

I just bought that stove. It's excellent. Mine

I really considered that pack. Ended up going to REI buying one there, since I wanted to make 100% I'd be comfortable in it. Ended up with the REI Mars 85 for $119 on clearance. I love it.
If you have the time to order and return it, I'd try the one you linked.

I considered a spork, but I find that I prefer having two separate utensils to manipulate food. I got the $3 3 piece set at REI and like it.

That Stanley cookpot was a close contender for me. I ended up with the coleman aluminum set that the Boy Scouts use. It's $6 and very light.

I don't know that you'll need the drysacks, but they are decent. WalMart sells that brand. I ended up getting their three stuff sacks for $5.
Wal Mart also has nifty things like clips, zipper pulls, and other random useful stuff in their camping section.

I've never had Mountain House, but at those prices I'll pass. Here's the food list I'm working on - goal is cheap and easy to purchase (no DIY dehydration, etc.)

I don't think you'll need the firesteel. Waterproof matches, two lighters ought to be enough. I just made my mind up on this last night - pulled the steel from my pack.

I can not stress good socks enough. These are my single favorite thing out of my gear.

This mug is good, insulated, cheap, has a lid, and light.

This underwear, dear god. Another must.

I didn't do the steripen, ended up with the Katadyn Hiker Pro instead. The cool thing is that it comes with quick disconnects to add to your hydration bladder so you can pump water straight from the river into your bladder via the sip tube - no need to even open the pack! For me, with an 85 liter pack and a 3 liter platypus, this was really nice.

On this recommendation, I bought this tent at Walmart for $22. I'm 6' and fit it snugly diagonally. Very, very light (maybe 2 pounds, packed), and seems like it will do the trick. Haven't spent the night in it. The material is barely water resistant and the rainfly is tiny, so I carry a lightweight tarp just in case and use it as the footprint when I don't need rain protection. It's lighter and roomier than anything I could find under $120.

This bag is a little on the heavy side at 4.5 pounds, but I couldn't find a better-reviewed bag under $80. (at ~$90, the North Face Cat's Meow is the way to go).

Do you have the regular planet fitness membership or the black one?
http://www.planetfitness.com/membership-types

If you have the black one you're golden ;)

Other than that, get a good portable stove so you can make some food and boil water for tea or coffee.

Buy a jerrycan for water with a little tap on it, fill it up regularly, it also means you can wash yourself even if you don't have access to showers etc.

A small camping spade is good for number 2s in the woods :)

Get a mosquito net hammock, and maybe a cheap tent it means you can sleep outside or on campsites on hot nights.

Your biggest expense will be gas for the car.

Planet fitness is a good idea, but it's urban areas, I would do some (wild) camping more often.

I have no idea what campsites cost in the US per night, but if you do that every other night, or even once in 3 nights, it beats sleeping in a car park, and is cheaper than a hotel.

Have a look at some of the national parks, some of them have basic (cheap) camp grounds too. Campgrounds are really cool places to meet people, much better than a Walmart car park ;)

Shopping list:

Solar shower

Water carrier

Folding spade

Hammock

Cookware

Camping canister stoves are cheap, between $10 and $50
Cheap tent is around $50

Total expenses before hand, around $150-200 max.

I just went for the first items I found on amazon, there are probably cheaper or better products out there.

Source, I did a 6 month trip by bicycle through Europe, so not the same, but the basics are the same. You have the advantage of not being restricted by weight or size of items, which makes it cheaper.

If you need more ideas, packing tips or anything else, I'll gladly help ;)

Have fun, explore and enjoy, it's fun!

I'm a stove junkie...

I've got the following:

• DIY V8 Alcohol Stove
  
• DIY Rolled Rim Alcohol Stove x2
  
• Firebox Nano Wood Stove
  
• Cheapo Knockoff Pocket Rocket
  
• Soto Micro Regulator *Note: This one is purchased but I haven't received it yet!
  
• Coleman Single Burner Propane
  
  
  They all have their own pros and cons, of course.
  
  The alcohol stoves are great for short trips and are incredibly light, but they take some practice. They are also not the best in cold temps unless you really know what you're doing.
  
  The cheap canister stove has been amazing, especially for the price. It has never failed me in 2 years, the igniter works first try every time, and with 4 season canisters you can easily still use them in the winter.
  
  The firebox nano is usually carried more as a backup than anything, but it is terrific in it's own right. Takes a little more coddling and whatnot, but with some practice you can use it to cook some great backcountry gourmet meals. And you'll really never be left wanting for fuel (unless it's been pouring rain and you don't have the tools to process wood down.
  
  I have high hopes for the Soto, since the reviews seem to be really great.
  
  The Coleman is for car camping, and works in just about any temperatures (but is incredibly heavy).
  
  I find that my alcohol stoves are my go-to during short overnight trips or where I'll be covering a number of miles. The cheapo canister knockoff comes with me if I want to cook something other than boil-only meals, or in colder temps, and I'm planning to replace it with the Soto once it comes in.
  
  

Thanks for the reply

>Lose the dish soap, keyboard, glow stick, camp towel, and clothesline.

Im willing to lose everything but the keyboard. Im specifically bringing that to play nostalgic emulators on my phone. I might send it back home if I don't feel the need to entertain myself with videogames in my down time.

>"Sweatpants" makes me nervous because for me, that word typically refers to a cotton item. Don't bring cotton clothes.

I have long underwear and those thin hiking pants that have the removable legs to double as shorts. Will this be warm enough or should I add another layer such as rain pants?

>How much water capacity is that?

1.75 liters. The small bottle is for filtered water and electrolyte mixes the large is for unfiltered water.

>That's a heavy trowel.

It is I am looking to replace it although the plastic ones don't fold. This one is metal and it does which helps with space.

>You have crocs listed twice.

The weight I listed is the weight of one shoe not a set

>I don't see a phone

I will list my phone tomorrow when I can weigh it, like I said this is a rough draft

>"Pots" plural? You just need one, or is that a typo?

I bought this pot set off of amazon and it fits the fuel inside it along with the stove, its the best cheap solution I've found yet.

G4Free Outdoor Camping pan Hiking Cookware Backpacking Cooking Picnic Bowl Pot Pan Set 4 Piece Camping Cookware Mess Kit(2 PCS-Green) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MQSHG3N/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_XP8HAbD2DGF35

>"Emergency blanket" shouldn't be categorized under clothes.

True

>You don't need the syringe for the Sawyer if one of your smartwater bottles has a sport top.

Good idea

>What is your start date? I know your hiking clothes aren't listed yet, but if it's cold enough you'll want those gloves you'll probably want some sort of a hat as well.

Starting March 3rd, I do have a beanie I can add

>You don't need an ounce worth of sewing kit. A needle and a little thread is useful, but shouldn't weigh more than a few grams.

Ill see how I can package my sewing kit better

No problem with the editing I did the same replying. Again thanks for the input!

Honestly, this is too open ended to give appropriate advice. What are you cooking? Predominantly boiled water food, or more varied cooking? How many people are you cooking for? What climate do you live in? Will you be boiling water to purify it? Will you be using the cookset while car camping or on longer treks into the backcountry? What's your price range?

The absolute cheapest is going to be a diy alcohol stove (there are tons of different methods) and a diy can pot. The whole setup would be negligible in price and ultralight for backpacking but doesn't do much more than boil water.

Moving up are canister stoves which range from $10 for a simple stove to $100+ for a Jetboil or similar system. I have an MSR Pocket Rocket and the temperature control makes these systems better for cooking more complicated backcountry meals beyond boiling water. The downside is the canisters are not reusable and it's hard to tell exactly how much fuel you have left. Predictably, the Jetboil is very fast and efficient at boiling water but not great at more complicated cooking.

Stepping up from the diy cooking pots are any cheap aluminum pots. These can be dedicated camping pots, or just any general discount pot.

Moving beyond canister stoves you can look at liquid gas stoves like the MSR Whisperlite. These stoves cost $100-150 and depending on the model can use white gas, gasoline, kerosene, and some also have adapters for canisters. The nearly unlimited fuel source make these stoves fantastic for prepping and the refillable liquid fuel bottle allows you to always know how much fuel you have. They are larger and heavier than canister stoves (though about equivalent to a Jetboil) and don't have great heat control. I use my MSR Whisperlite as my go-to stove just because it's easier to use than wasting my canister fuel.

A step up from basic backpacking pots are titanium pots. At this point all you're paying for is less weight than your cheaper options.

You can also look at large, traditional dual burner coleman stoves. These essentially give you a normal stove-top while camping and the propane canisters are relatively cheap. Of course, these are not suitable for anything but home use and car camping.

Another option for bushcraft, depending on your climate, is to just use a campfire. Some people only take a steel water bottle and use it to boil water in the campfire for their cooking needs. This is usually too much hassle for me after a long day of hiking but I occasionally use this method depending on the trip and weather.

When you look at cooking sets, stay away from nice little kits with pots and plates and silverware and cups. All you really need is a pot and a spoon or spork. Sometimes I bring a cup and or bowl, but I think it's best to keep things simple and lightweight.

There are other options out there but I hope this answered your question. If I was to blindly recommend one complete budget-minded set right now, it would be the MSR Pocket Rocket - $40, this pot and cup combo - $11, and this spork -$3, plus a $10 isobutane canister.

I mean no disrespect, but I also tend to be rather blunt: There is a lot of work that needs to be done to this bag. It seems really thrown together, out of an amalgamation of random stuff that's vaguely "outdoorsy".

Firstly, the bag itself. There's probably a reason it was in the trash, and my suspicion is that it wasn't because it was well built, durable, and comfortable. Good bags can be had for not much money and there are definitely used options on Craigslist and at outdoor store garage sales if you're on a shoestring budget. Your bag has to be able to take the abuse of multiple days and many miles of rucking.

FOUR knives? And they are all folders to boot? And you're trying to tell me this isn't "bloated"? Come on. Get one good multitool like a Leatherman, or keep the Gerber if you must (you don't need 87 bits for your Gerber in the woods, either). Maaaybe carry a fixed blade, too, if you really think you'll be needing it.

Mess kit: That looks bulky as hell, and aluminum has an incredibly low melting point (something like ~1200F) which is easily attainable in a mature fire. Hello melted mess kit. If you are really just bugging out you shouldn't need to cook anything. Calorie dense food bars, jerky, nuts etc. should be sufficient. Get a super small mess kit like this amazing one from GSI Outdoor and use this very cheap but decent backpacking stove and you have a lightweight, highly functional way to cook, boil water, and drink for under $25.

Blade sharpener? If you somehow manage to dull all four of your knives in a few days you're doing something wrong. Save the blade sharpener for the Zombies-Are-Attacking INCH bag or whatever.

Sunscreen and bug repellent are both great. that said, you are carrying almost as much sunscreen as you are water. Embellishing, of course, but that's a fucking lot of sunscreen.

I would also seriously work on flushing out that medical kit. If you don't have much first aid training, that's fine (though you should get some) but a basic boo-boo kit will be really functional. Gauze, small band-aids, some medium sized non-stick pads, alcohol wipes, burn cream and/or antibiotic cream, tweezers, rubber gloves, pain relievers, anti-diarrheals, generic antihistamines (for regular allergies and allergic reactions), etc. etc. Avoid pre-built medical kits and avoid things you don't know how to use.

The MSR filter is actually fantastic, can't fault you there. That said, something like a Sawyer Mini would be a fair bit lighter, and has integral water storage should you need more.

Metal water bottle: Looks like a thermos, which is great for keeping your coffee warm on the way to work but is single-use and heavy in the backwoods. I'd suggest changing it out for a widemouth single-walled metal container like those from Klean Kanteen because now not only do you have a way to store water, but you also have a way to boil it! And you can cook in it if absolutely necessary. And you can fill it up with hot water and add it to your sleeping bag to stay warm.

Wait...where is your sleeping bag? I know you mentioned having some miscellaneous camping gear in your car, but what if you need to abandon your car? Look at even a simple bivy sack like this one from SOL. Coupled with a lightweight tarp and you have a functional survival sleep system. Throw in a small inflatable pad for insulation from the ground and you can survive in all but the most inclement of weather.

Lose the rat traps and 200(!!!) fishing hooks in exchange for calorie dense food bars and other foods that need little or no preparation. Try to stay above 130 calories/gram and pay attention to things that are high in protein, fiber, and fat. You're bugging out, remember? Not sitting around camp all day with a cold one and your rod in the lake.

Substitute your few cheap (read: heavy and unreliable) flashlights for one good one. Something like a Four Sevens Quark AA2 or something from Fenix, Nitecore, or Olight. It will be reliable, well built, and powered by an efficient driver to produce multiple modes of light and provide for good run time. Get something that takes standard AA or AAA batteries. Avoid CR123As.

Noticeably lacking are things like a map and firestarters. You mentioned a ferrocerium rod. Instead of spending $7.00 on a decent one of those, get three BIC lighters and a pack of waterproof matches in a container. And save a couple bucks in the process. Ever started a fire with a ferro rod? It sucks. I've done it. I do it for fun and honing my skills occasionally. But a simple ass BIC will work 100 times better in almost any situation.

Add a high quality, water resistant topographical map of your region. Do you know how to use that compass? I'm not talking about pointing it north, but for things like triangulation or magnetic declination or navigating to a point on your map by finding a bearing. There are tons of Youtube videos out there that will help you in understanding these techniques if you don't already. A compass by itself is near useless.

How about things that you're more likely to encounter?

Throw in a charger for your phone, or maybe one of those $5 burner flip phones and a $10 minutes card in case yours dies. Take the battery out (should be removable on a cheap pay-as-you-go bog standard phone) and write important numbers on the inside.

How about wiping your ass? Go to your nearest Walmart and hit the toiletries section. You'll find bins of $1.00 miniature travel accessories. I'd recommend a toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant bar, personal wet wipes (preferably biodegradable), Chapstick, and some baby powder or Gold Bond. Throw it all in a gallon Ziplock or a small pouch. Now you can survive in the woods AND survive overnight a friend's house after you get too drunk and can't drive.

I see nothing for cold weather gear. I know it's summer but depending on where you are night time can still be cold as hell. Add a beanie, wool gloves, a fleece underlayer, a poncho or rainproof hard shell jacket, and a change of GOOD wool socks.


Lose the 9 million feet of paracord. 50ft should be plenty sufficient (if that) especially considering the inner strands are strong enough for most applications.

I think that covers all my major gripes. Back to drinking and being an ass.

Hey! I'm also looking to start NOBO 2017 around that same time. I have some backpacking experience. Mostly weekend overnight trips over the past 3 to 4 years. I just got back from finishing a 7 day shakedown hike on the Georgia section (Springer to Dicks Creek Gap). Once you start picking up some stuff, I would highly suggest at least trying a 2 or 3 night hike to get a feel for your gear.

I've been slowly upgrading to more lightweight items over the past few months ... after obsessively reading this sub as well as /r/ultralight. Here is what I'm currently using. Hope this helps!

• Packs - I have the ULA Circuit but I've heard nothing but good things about the Osprey Exos. Both are extremely popular packs on the trail. This is really dependent on your baseweight so it's recommended that you pick this up last. (Something I did not do lol)
  
  
• Sleeping Bags - What I ended up getting and what everyone here seems to recommend is a 20deg Enlightened Revelation Quilt. I don't have any complaints about it so far. Another popular (and cheaper) option I've seen around here is the Kelty Cosmic Down.
  
  
• Tents - You can pick up a Henry Shires Tarptent for around $200 to $300. I have the Notch but I almost went with the Rainbow.
  
  
• Trekking Poles - You don't need expensive carbon poles. I picked up a pair of Black Diamond Trail Ergo Cork poles for about $70 on amazon and I love them. These also double as my tent poles. I'd go cheaper here and use the cash saved somewhere else.
  
  
• Cooking System - I have the MSR Pocket Rocket canister stove and a GSI minimalist cookpot. However, I'm looking to upgrade the pot to a titanium cookpot before leaving for trail.

Over the past year I've been piecing together camping gear. I ultimately plan on doing backpacking trips once I become a more experienced camper, and graduate college. Growing up, I went camping frequently but never really did any backpacking or primitive camping where you have to hike to the campsite - my dad always took us to the campsites you can drive up to. My friend, who boasts about the camping etiquette and survival skills he learned in boy scouts, justly criticizes my experience camping - which is limited to campsites that don't require you to pack light and have easy access to water (and restrooms). For example, I've never had the opportunity of digging a hole to shit in. Do I just dig a hole with my hands? Do I need to bring a shovel? How much toilet paper do I need to bring for a 2-3 day trip? I know I have to bring the used paper with me, so how do you recommend carrying trash in general?

Things like this I figure I'd learn overtime. And I do plan on pacing myself; I'm going to work my way up from 1-2 day trips to 2-3 day trips to 4-5 day trips, and ultimately something like the Appalachian Trail. My favorite place to go camping is Big Bend National Park, and there's a 2-3 day trip I'd like to do sometime this year.

I guess my main questions are:

1. How would you recommend starting off? Would a couple of 2-3 day backpacking trips, with my friend, be a good place to start?
   
2. Is my gear sufficient? Is there anything I'm missing?
   
3. Any general tips, book or gear suggestions.
   
   Here's a list of my gear:
   
   

• REI Passage 2 Tent
  
• Osprey Volt 75 Backpack w/ bladder
  
• Marmot Trestles 30 Sleeping Bag and a sleeping pad
  
• Hammock (which I think, if i'm using a tent, would make for a great pillow when it's folded up)
  
• Mess Kit and utensils
  
• Fuel Tablet Camping Stove
  
• Rechargeable flashlight
  
• A small, rechargeable lantern
  
• 2 multi-tool pliers - one big, one small
  
• 2 knifes
  
• First aid kit
  
  Also, I plan on getting a pair of hiking boots this summer. Any suggestions?
  
  edit: grammar

[Stansport 2.5 Quart Aluminum Cook Pot with Lid] (https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B00DFZYNZU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_4Sx7xbKSX61C5) 12$ or so for a nice sized cook pot, walmart has 10$ multitools, but if you want anything remotely useful, buy them both a good medkit and a knife, spend 20-30 on those each ideally but 15 each works I guess. But this seems more like a kiddy thing or a gimmick 30$ seems like some /k/ survival game, not effective for actual survival.

Edit: here is a nice little [Knife] (https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B007C1SG7E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_M-x7xbDDFQ1YR) thats dirt cheap, its stainless but not horrible, it will keep its edge as long as they need it to and takes less care to keep it good. A dollarama kitchen knife is not a replacement for a halfway decent knife. It will not work in the same way a normal knife does.

Source: avid outdoorsman, hiker and a cook.

Oh fun! $500 is a good amount to work with. I am going to assume he has absolutely nothing as you said full kit.

This folding saw is just awesome, and on sale! I've had one for many years. About $22.

This Knife is a lot more heavy duty than the Moras people will inevitably recommend (not that there is anything wrong with them). It's also a lot more expensive. I think it would make a nice gift. Also on sale. $104.

A pot $15.

A Silnylon tarp $63.

Gotta have paracord $10

There are a lot of firesteels out there but this one was uber cheap and looks just like the one I've had for years. >$2.

I would HIGHLY recommend a small forest of Hultafors, Wetterlings, or Gransfors Bruks make. I couldn't find a good link for them on Amazon. They'll be about $150

All told that list(including and axe) is about $360 before tax and shipping) Obviously a pack to put it would top it all off and bring you pretty close to $500 mark. It's just too personal a choice and I can't begin recommend one.

What stuff if any does he have already? A blanket or sleeping bag could be a good choice. A small alcohol stove too.

If you go to Walmart you can find Boy Scout style mess kits for $5 that include a little aluminum pan. Buy that and try it out. If you don't like it you'll use it in the future for something else and it was only $5.

I have one and it comes with my on all my trips (just the frying pan part) because it is so damn light, half as light as my friends titanium pan of the same size.

Also aluminum in general is a good material because it has excellent heat conduction, something like 5 times that of steel. Because of this it will heat food evenly despite an uneven heat source.

Pro tip. Because aluminum is such a good conductor of heat the handle will often get quite hot. Luckily the handle is actually a separate piece from the pan so unscrew it, insert a steel washer, and put it back together. The poor heat conducting properties of the steel as well as the additional air gap perfectly solves the hot handle issue!

I'm kind of in the same boat as you are. Started backpacking maybe about 2 months ago and had a ton of old gear. Carrying 35 lbs over 26 miles was no fun, and when I came back home to research lighter stuff I kept finding things that were hundreds of dollars a piece. I did a ton of research and found some good quality gear at a budget level.

Mind the formatting/spelling errors. On mobile.

Tent - $70 - Geertop 1 Person 3 Season 20D Ultralight Backpacking Tent for Camping Hiking Climbing (Trekking Poles NOT Included)(Inner Tent is Green) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01J9XWJEI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_hE-PBbG3XQVVQ

Sleeping System (2 parts)

Quilt - $35 - Double Black Diamond Packable Down Throw with Stuff Sack, 60" x 70" (Peacock) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079YX2W79/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_.F-PBbJ5R45V4

Pad - $40 - WellaX Ultralight Air Sleeping Pad – Inflatable Camping Mat for Backpacking, Traveling and Hiking Air Cell Design for Better Stability & Support –Plus Repair Kit (Green) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B076PHYVD8/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_60-PBbA71XR3R

*note I sleep warm and wear layers. I found the quilt to be good for 3 season camping in the temperate CA conditions. The pad helps with the cold and I'm a side sleeper so the pad is a requirement for me. YMMV.

Poles - $22 (needed for the tent listed above) - BAFX Products - 2 Pack - Anti Shock Hiking / Walking / Trekking Trail Poles - 1 Pair, Blue, Royal Blue https://www.amazon.com/dp/B007YT854S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_sI-PBb1S6HSMG

Cook pot - $11 - G4Free Outdoor Camping pan Hiking Cookware Backpacking Cooking Picnic Bowl Pot Pan Set 4 Piece Camping Cookware Mess Kit(2 PCS-Green) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MQSHG3N/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fK-PBb0YKV8R3

I cook simple meals that mostly require just boiling water. It's also large enough to fit my soap, stove, and gas can in.

Stove - $14 - Etekcity Ultralight Portable Outdoor Backpacking Camping Stove with Piezo Ignition https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00B4FY8YO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_dM-PBb3M334JD


Water filtration (4 parts)
Dirty water bag - $20 - Cnoc Outdoors Vecto 2L Water Container, 28mm, Orange https://www.amazon.com/dp/B075NQT5KP/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_DN-PBbFGE74F0

Clean water bag - $13 - Platypus Platy 2-Liter Ultralight Collapsible Water Bottle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000J2KEGY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_CO-PBbZ2HXVZV

Filter - $37 - Sawyer Products SP137 PointOne Squeeze Water Filter System with 16-Ounce Pouch, Straw, and Hydration Pack Adapters https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00WG9AFW6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_1P-PBbX4F8JW4

Filter attachment - $3 - Sawyer Products SP150 Coupling for Water Filtration Cleaning https://www.amazon.com/dp/B018NJC1A6/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_YQ-PBbDFGGM0D

With this water system you have the option of gravity feeding your water supply at camp. You can also simplify by just buying the $37 kit and just squeeze directly into your water bottle/bladder, but I find this setup more convenient.

After that, the rest are kind of up to you. Food, clothes, etc. I wouldn't skimp on shoes though. Look into trail runners or hiking SHOES (not boots).

Optional things I'd look into is paracord and a tarp especially if you're going to camp in the rain. You can also look into hammock camping which would be a little more budget friendly than the tent + blanket option.

Overall there are definitely cheaper options but I find this to be a good balance of price, weight, and convenience.

All in all this is about $265.

I live in a camper full time going on a month now and I have not found a solution yet, but have been looking. I'm considering a thermal cooker, which apparently works as an oven just by boiling water. There is also something like this that goes right on top of a camp stove: http://www.amazon.com/Coleman-5010D700T-Camp-Oven/dp/B0009PURJA

You probably won't find much of a counter-argument because she's right, it won't be the same. But if you want to live in a camper than you have to adapt and that's pretty much all their is to it.

I would love to be able to grind my wheat and bake my bread on the road!

Have you been tent camping before? This may seem like the cheapest way to go, but if you don't already have your camping equipment already this can be an expensive way to go.

Using amazon:

• 2 person tent $45
  
• 2 sleeping bags $44
  
• battery powered lanterns $15
  
• 48 pack batteries $12 (that may be too many but you don't want to buy too few)
  
• single burner stove $25
  
• tank of propane $10 (burner is kind of useless without it)
  
• coffee percolator $12
  
• Camping cookware $18
  
• camping tableware set $28
  
  I'm leaving some stuff out, but you're looking at about another $209 added to the cost of staying at Fort Wilderness.
  
  Let's not forget that if you aren't sure about being comfortable with tent camping, It rains like you've rarely ever seen every day in Florida. Usually for short periods of time, but are you willing to tent camp in a tropical rainstorm over night?
  
  I am a huge advocate of Fort Wilderness. I've loved the place since my parents took me there as a child (with a pull behind RV) in the mid 1970's. I suggest you go to the Chip and Dale Campfire Sing-A-Long, and Movies Under The Stars while you are there. If you can afford it go to the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue as well. However, tent camping in Florida is quite different than tent camping anywhere else. Maybe wait a little longer until you can afford to stay at one of the All-Star resorts.

I love anything Ozark Trail if it's a quality item. They've been making some backpacking tents that are light and good quality, you just gotta know which model to get. My buddy has that cook set and has never had an issue with it. I personally would go with it over anything expensive. You don't need everything from the set and you can probably shave a pound off. Personally, I use this guy and it is super light and great quality

Night time hikes through the forest with a quality flashlight is fun. Several modes from dim to turbo. Amazing how the forest wakes up when humans go to bed. (which includes mt. lions in ca)

Yes, mosquito repellent. Also, buy a tent for 4 or 6. Two person tent is way too small. Sleeping pads (thermarest are good) A Coleman type camp stove is nice to have, and a set of camp pots and pans. These particular ones are what I bought, and work really well. If you camp in an area that isn't picked clean of dead tree limbs, one of these comes in handy to cut up small stuff for fires. Get yourself a good camp knife like a Morakniv, and a good locking cooler to keep the trash panda's out.

For a tent I have the Ledge Scorpion 2. It's light, small, freestanding, has an optional tarp for when it rains, and good ventilation.

You can get a decent sleeping bag at Academy. I have a No Limits 32 degree tent. I wouldn't get anything rated colder than that because they'll be too big. Mine is basically as big as you should ever get. I'd recommend smaller.

For bed roll I I have the Alps Comfort Series. It rolls real flat and is inflatable by mouth.

For cooking system I use this: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004U8CP88/ref=oh_details_o03_s00_i01?ie=UTF8&psc=1. It's extremely light and small. Works great with this for cookware: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0037DD3R4/ref=oh_details_o03_s00_i02?ie=UTF8&psc=1.

Don't forget about a good backpack and a good water purification equipment.

A Ti mug with a Ti clamp-on handle -- like the [Vargo potlifter, for example] (https://www.amazon.com/Vargo-VR419-BRK-Titanium-Pot-Lifter/dp/B004JKIBA8/) -- works pretty well as a Turkish coffee pot.

I am surprised that Turkish Coffee isn't more popular for UL hikers that require Morning Java; it's the one method that substitutes technique for gear, which is the essence of the Dark Arts. But it does, however, require good technique, which must be learned and practiced to become expert.

And it also requires a grinder. The Hario Slim is a good choice for weight and size.

I think it was a pricing error but I bought one of these sets as a gift for a friend...for $3.08.

They make bigger sets with nesting pots that review quite well:

https://www.amazon.com/G4Free®-Outdoor-Camping-Cookware-Backpacking/dp/B00N7EOB88/

Others in this thread have suggested Imusa and a Kmart grease pot; great suggestions.

Here are some links for the product in the above comment for different countries:

Amazon Smile Link: this pot


|Country|Link|Charity Links|
|:-----------|:------------|:------------|
|USA|smile.amazon.com|EFF|
|UK|www.amazon.co.uk|Macmillan|
|Germany|www.amazon.de||




To help add charity links, please have a look at this thread.

This bot is currently in testing so let me know what you think by voting (or commenting). The thread for feature requests can be found here.

I've had really good luck cooking in a Coleman camp oven. It's cheap, foldable, and bakes well and evenly.

https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-2000016462-Camp-Oven-13-5/dp/B0009PURJA/ref=sr_1_3?keywords=coleman+camp+oven&qid=1562969247&s=sporting-goods&sr=1-3

​

Edit: And I see someone has already linked to this, sorry. It really does work well.

id say it really depends on the size of your pack, how many people you are going to be cooking for, and what you are planning on cooking... i just ordered: http://www.amazon.com/Coleman-2000009607-Aluminum-Mess-Kit/dp/B0009PUR4A

cheap, light, will work great for cooking a bunch of different meals for 1-2 people.. plus everything nests so it doesnt take up too much room. I have a large MOLLE ruck and carry sleeping bag/trauma kit/MREs/rain gear/fishing gear/spare clothes/and whatever the hell else i want to carry.. but huge pots and pans are one thing i do not want to lug around on my back

EDIT: if you are rich i would buy a nice nesting titanium set... but alas i am not so i will deal with the aluminum

I have the [GSI Microdualist Hallulite] (http://www.amazon.com/GSI-50145-Halulite-Microdualist/dp/B0037DD3R4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1348588722&sr=8-1&keywords=microdualist) and absolutely love it. It cleans up in a snap. Has 2 insulated bowls with cups and included utensils. Also you can fit your fuel and stove inside, granted its small enough. also it only weighs 20 oz. Which isnt bad for a two man cook set. It was a bit pricey, but Im glad I spent the extra money. I used to go through a coleman set every two seasons or so. This cookset has lasted me 3 and still looks brand new.

• Headlight
  
• Lightweight titanium forks or sporks
  
• Mess kit
  
• 
  
  I bought a lightweight cooking set from Amazon this summer that works well. Interesting enough the wooden spoon looking thing turned out to be the most useful eating utensil I have used. It was also good for cleaning the pots without scratching, stirring and eating from those freeze dried packages to get the last morsel out.
  
  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00PTRLR6U/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Unless you plan on eating out all the time (which will get expensive really fast in Europe) you will want to carry some kind of stove and a pot.

This one is cheap and very popular. This set with two small pots included also seems nice. If you can't order from amazon you can also find them on eBay and the other usual Chinese sellers.

An other alternative would be an alcohol stove. Either selfmade from a soda can or something like a Trangia mini.

Not sure about the cooking set and coffee maker, but aluminum is the third most abundant material on Earth. You probably breathe more aluminum than you cook into your food. You certainly get WAY more aluminum in some antacid tablets than even acidic food would put into your stomach from cooking on aluminum cookware.

Info on that.

I understand about the Teflon issue; Teflon itself isn't harmful to humans, as the molecule is large and inert IIRC, but the chemicals used to get Teflon to stick to pots and pans is pretty nasty. But that only become a problem if you get the temperature of the cookware above about 600F (again, IIRC) that that becomes a real issue though. The heat breaks down the chemical bonds of that adhere the Teflon to the metal. And those chemicals aren't the greatest thing to ingest repeatedly.

But if you look for the hard anodized aluminum sets, you should be fine. Mine clean up pretty easily too. Here's links to each:

Texsport Scouter
Texsport Trailblazer

I think it would be interesting to throw you into the ultralighting scene immediately, but I know in my heart it would be cruel.

Tent: [$25] (http://www.amazon.com/Stansport-Backpack-Forest-6-Feet-X4-Feet/dp/B0006V2B2I/ref=sr_1_26?ie=UTF8&qid=1418161376&sr=8-26&keywords=bivy)

Nalgene water bottles: Get 2, ~$8 = $16

Sleeping bag: $50

Backpack: $35

Stove: $18

Cookset: $11

Flashlight: $6

Knife: $8

That all comes out to around $169. These are items to get you started. Everything will eventually be upgraded as you understand yourself as an outdoors(wo)man.

Cheers, SS. Eagle Scout. 800+ nights camped.

Here's something that's much cheaper and much lighter. I bought this kit in December and I've used it several times. It's that cheap aluminum that can be bent with your bare hands. But you said "cheap and light", no mention of durability. That being said, treat it like something that can be easily damaged and it'll last a good long while. Treat it like it's made out of cast iron and it won't last a single trip. I've used mine several times and it's still in perfect shape, just the bottom outside is soot covered. I weighed just the frying pan & handle and it's 4.25oz (I bought this just for the frying pan. I consider the rest of this kit pretty useless. But hey, it's a $10 frying pan so still a win). It's big enough to fry a medium sized onion and pepper cut into strips, or a full pound chicken breast cut in half. Or, I'd guess a few eggs and modest serving of hashbrowns at the same time, as long as you don't mind the eggs and hashbrowns mixing together a bit. The lid can be used as a deep plate, also.


https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-Camping-Cookware-5-Piece-Aluminum/dp/B0009PUR4A

If it helps, this is pretty similar for around the same price: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015SRB58U/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

This one has a foldable base instead of the fixed of that one, but otherwise it looks pretty close. I purchased the Amazon one a week ago, but haven't had a chance to test/use it yet so I can't speak to its usefulness/durability. It does seem at least decently constructed though, from my initial inspection.

I'm a fan of This Open Country Aluminum Kettle - http://www.amazon.com/Open-Country-Aluminum-Covered-Kettle/dp/B001OPHFJO/

It is lightweight, it packs well, and it includes a bail handle and a cover. I combine this with 1 or 2 MSR nesting bowls, a metal cup, a metal nalgene sized water bottle and a spork and almost all of my cooking needs are taken care of.

Whatever stove you get you should get this camp oven to use on top of it. Muffin mix and water turn into gloriously moist treats. Baked pasta. It's only $20-$30 and worth every penny. https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0009PURJA/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1491076772&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=coleman+camp+oven&dpPl=1&dpID=41qOyhYDuQL&ref=plSrch

Coleman makes a fold-up camp oven that sits on top of a stove burner. I haven't used it but Bob Wells of CheapRVLivng.com seems to like them.

https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-2000016462-Camp-Oven/dp/B0009PURJA

I use the $22 Amazon Version, works great and very reliable.

I haven't tried these since my pot has handles but there's this pot grabber, or this one. You may also want to fashion a reflectix cozy so you can comfortably hold the bowl while you're eating out of it.

My partner and I road trip often and keep a little camp stove, a can of propane and a camp pot in our car. Would something like that work for you? You could get all that stuff for about $25 and that would help you heat up meals on the go. You could make endless combinations of beans, grains/rice and roasted or sauteed veggies - all prepped on Sundays.

https://smile.amazon.com/Petforu-Camping-Propane-Canister-Cooking/dp/B015SRB58U/ref=sr_1_13?ie=UTF8&qid=1506717442&sr=8-13&keywords=propane+camping+stove

Just picked up this cookware set for 15

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00PTRLR6U/ref=ya_aw_od_pi?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Don't know if it is any good but the reviews look promising

Food

Consider getting a camp stove set. "Ultralight" gear is, just that, ultralight. You can get a nice burner that screws right onto the fuel canister, or a slightly larger one that has more a base to it. Amazon.com has lockers that you can pick up your delivery from, or you can go to the local sporting goods store. Pair this with a lightweight, or even a full kit and you're set.

Saving

Create a budget right now. It doesn't have to be on the computer – whatever is most accessible to you at any given point in time. Use a register to track your spending, only spending from categories that you've allocated money to. Subtract from a category and your total balance every time you make a purchase. Obviously, there are apps and spreadsheets out there that will help with this, but if you don't have that accessible to you, then it isn't going to help.

Check out the video tutorials on classic.youneedabudget.com and run your budget that way. Be sure to allocate some to savings if possible. Even if you don't have a savings account, you can compile a lump of savings in your checking account or in an envelope.

This is what I'm using now, but I don't use anything except the pot. I should have got something like this. It's more expensive but it's lighter and doesn't come with anything unnecessary. They both have stuff sacks.

Amazon has a decent little stove and pot combo for a real good price:

https://www.amazon.com/Wolfyok-Backpacking-Cookware-Flashlight-Ignition/dp/B01985FDA4

several gallon freezer ziplocks are handy. and then just a few contractor bags for impromptu dry bags. I have one of these(just the burner) and it keeps food cost down in a big way. fuel is cheap and packs easy. if you're going somewhere with lots of mosquitos, I tend to forgo the tarp and get a small one person tent. also a machete/hatchet could come in handy for intimidating assholes. and if you are going around blackberry bushes, you can always wade out an adequate distance and then clear a camp spot with your machete, instant fortified safe camp.

here is a similar knock-off stove for half the price you listed. I have this one and it works well.

I also have this to go with it (look at the related products for in-stock options).

This setup is ok for one person with the right kind of meals. For two+ people I bring a whisperlite with a larger cookset but I'll also mention that my most often and preferred vehicle is the canoe, so weight is less of an issue to me than a hiker.

https://www.amazon.com.au/Petforu-Ultralight-Portable-Backpacking-Cookware/dp/B015SRB58U/ref=mp_s_a_1_212?crid=2KQCHM86Q1BSE&keywords=ultralight+hiking&qid=1557106020&s=gateway&sprefix=ultralight+h&sr=8-212

Something like this

Like this https://www.amazon.com/Coleman-2000016462-Camp-Oven-13-5/dp/B0009PURJA

I have that pot and got it from Amazon with a stove: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015SRB58U

The pot is alright but the handles will melt easily if they get nicked by flame. I didn't have any issues with offgassing but perhaps it is the rubber handles? The rubber could be cut off.

Wow! What!? I spent more on a pint at the bar the other night. Shit, it's even cheap in Canada.

Howdy!

You can use a Coleman style oven on top of your campstove, http://www.amazon.com/Coleman-5010D700T-Camp-Oven/dp/B0009PURJA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1409409170&sr=8-1&keywords=folding+camp+oven or a dutch oven to do your baking. (I use both)

I just ordered this Coleman Aluminum Mess Kit from amazon. Cheap, light, hopefully it will do the trick.

the model I bought doesn't seem to be on sale anymore but it's the one that came with this pot

I think the reason it got discontinued is that the top lid tended to warp with heat and not seal very well, so it doesn't boil water as fast as some of the other systems. I am planning to get one of the vertical jugs for this summer and still bring my pot with me to cook traditional food in.

There are camping ovens designed to work on a cooktop. http://www.amazon.com/Coleman-5010D700T-Camp-Oven/dp/B0009PURJA

It is This set. Halulite I guess is the material?

Vargo Titanium Ti-Boiler
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004H87QZI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Vargo Titanium Pot Lifter
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004JKIBA8/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

A camp oven, pizza stones to put inside to hold heat, and a pan for it.

For those in Canada: http://www.amazon.ca/Ultralight-Backpacking-Canister-Stove-Ignition/dp/B00AXV1YGK

"No cook bags" simply means that the food inside doesn't require cooking and typically don't require refrigeration. So you'll get things like sandwiches and chips and packaged fruit, things which don't require heating/cooking to eat or refrigeration to keep stable.

The problem with camp stoves is that it requires the owner to carry it around with them (lest it get stolen), and it requires fuel which is both expensive and potentially dangerous. Many of the homeless I've encountered make do with hobo stoves — typically metal cans (like coffee cans) with holes punched in the bottom for airflow and a small grate to go over the top. Start a fire with some sticks and leaves, add a piece of wood or a bit of charcoal for fuel, and cook right on top of it. Canned foods (soups, stews, etc) are popular for this, and with the addition of a cheap mess kit (like this) you can cook small meals reasonably well.

They may have stopped making these

https://www.amazon.ca/Coleman-Company-5010D700T-Camp-Oven/dp/B0009PURJA#

You couls gat a Vango Bravo 300 for £59.00
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Vango-Bravo-300-Tunnel-Tent/dp/B00R4X5R3G/ref=sr_1_48?s=camping-hiking&srs=1656886031&ie=UTF8&qid=1521211571&sr=1-48



12Pcs Outdoor Camping Cookware Mess Kit by Wolfyok for £20.00

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Wolfyok-Backpacking-Cookware-Ignition-12-Items/dp/B01985FDA4/ref=lp_3076437031_1_22?s=camping-hiking&ie=UTF8&qid=1521325470&sr=1-22

Ugh, I wonder if I can do one in a springform pan (not necessarily releasing it). We're downsizing and most of my bakeware is in storage, of course including my souffle and tart dishes. I soon will be experimenting with a stovetop oven and reporting results!

I'll remember that for next time. I've already packed it all away, but I might drag it out and take some pics. My foot is pretty banged up so it'll be a minute. But Ill give you a short list :)

Pack: Osprey Exos 58

Sleeping Bag: Teton Sports Tracker

Tent: ALPS Mountaineering Lynx 1

Tarp: Ultimate Survival Hex tarp

Mess kit: Mess kit and Mug

Water Filtration: Sawyer Mini

Tools/Defense: Note: Normally I would only take one knife, but I wasn't sure which I would prefer as they're two quite different blades. Ka-Bar Becker BK2, Condor Bushlore, and Bear Spray

Stove: MSR PocketRocket

First Aid: I had the Adventure Medical Kits Day Tripper, and then added to that with Celox and an Israeli Bandage

Trekking Poles: Cascade Mountain Tech CF with Cork Grips

In addition I had a few little things in a small kit; Ferro rod, duct tape, trail blazes, chemical water purifiers in case my Sawyer failed, bug spray, a small thing of sunscreen (which I didn't end up needing as it was overcast), deodorant, TP, etc.