Looking for the best mess kit for your next camping trip?
You've come to the right place! In this article, we will review some of the best mess kits on the market and provide you with a buying guide to help you choose the perfect one for your needs.
Whether you are looking for something lightweight and minimalist or a Cadillac option, we have got you covered. So, without further ado, let's get started!
How We Choose
Looking for the best camping mess kit? We’ve read through thousands of reviews to find the best camping mess kit for all your needs.
Whether you’re looking for a cook set, cutlery, or just a basic utensil set, we’ve looked at them all.
With these top-of-the-line camping mess kits, you can cook up a delicious meal right in the great outdoors. You won’t have to miss out on your favorite foods just because you’re camping – with an easy-to-use cook set, you can make anything from pancakes to pasta dishes.
And don’t forget the marshmallows – roasting them over a campfire is one of the most classic camping activities there is!
Products We Reviewed
Why We Love It
Wealers Unique Complete Messware Kit is the perfect set for small gatherings or mealtime for one. The high quality stainless steel gives this mess kit a modern look and feel, while the functionality is perfect for those who need to host a few guests.
This set comes complete with plates, utensils, and cups, making it the perfect addition to any kitchen.
What You Should Know
The Wealers Unique Complete Messware Kit was created for campers, hikers, and anyone who loves to spend time outdoors.
The set includes a cup, plates, bowls, and cutlery, all made from premium food-grade stainless steel.
The set is BPA-free and contains no toxins, making it safe for both you and the environment. The mesh bag provides convenient storage for all your outdoor adventures.
The whole set weighs just one pound, making it easy to pack for any trip.
Whether you’re hitting the trail or spending a weekend at the campsite, the Wealers Unique Complete Messware Kit will help you enjoy the great outdoors hassle-free.
Why We Love It
The UCO 4-Piece Camping Mess Kit is perfect for camping, backpacking, and scouting trips!
This mess kit includes a plate, bowl, and 3-in-1 spork utensil, making it ideal for meals on-the-go.
The compact design makes it easy to pack and transport, while the durable construction ensures long-lasting use.
Whether you're cooking over a campfire or enjoying a picnic lunch, the UCO 4-Piece Camping Mess Kit has everything you need for a great meal outdoors!
What You Should Know
The UCO 4-Piece Camping Mess Kit is the perfect way to enjoy a hot meal on the trail.
The bowl and plate connect with an airtight silicone gasket seal, and the included tether secures the spork and keeps contents contained.
The bowl and plate have rubberized grips on the bottom to prevent slippage on the tabletop while eating.
The 3-in-1 spork features a spoon on one end and a fork with serrated knife edge on the other; made from durable reinforced glass nylon.
Made from BPA free Polypropylene & TPE, weighs 10 ounces.
Why We Love It
If you're looking for the best quality tableware on the market, look no further than Bisgear's stainless steel set.
Made with premium 18/8 stainless steel, this set is built to last with its nontoxic materials and years of durability.
Plus, it's stain-resistant, odor-resistant, and rust-resistant - giving you the peace of mind that your tableware will always look its best.
And because it doesn't affect the taste of your food, you can enjoy every meal to the fullest.
Whether you're using it at home or on the go, this mess kit is perfect for any occasion.
So why settle for anything less than the best? Check out a Bisgear tableware set today and enjoy years of enjoyment.
What You Should Know
If you're looking for a dishwasher-safe, stainless steel tableware set that's both lightweight and easy to store, the Bisgear One Person Dinnerware Mess Kit is a great option.
This 13-piece set includes a dinner plate, a bowl, a cup, a spoon, a fork, a knife, and chopsticks.
All of the pieces nest together in a mesh bag, making it easy to take them with you on your next camping trip or picnic. The set is also free of harmful chemicals and bacteria.
Plus, at just 15 ounces, it won't weigh you down.
So whether you're headed to the park or the campground, be sure to pack the Bisgear One Person Dinnerware Mess Kit.
Why We Love It
Looking for a versatile and convenient table setting for your next outdoor adventure? Look no further than the GSI Outdoors Cascadian 1 Person Table Set!
This set comes with everything you need to enjoy a meal in the great outdoors, including a 9-inch plate, 6-inch bowl, 12-ounce mug, and full-sized fork, knife, and spoon.
The sleek and stylish design is perfect for any outdoor setting, and the durable construction ensures that this set will last for years to come.
Whether you're enjoying a solo camping trip or entertaining guests at a picnic, the Cascadian 1 Person Table Set is a must-have for all your outdoor dining needs!
What You Should Know
Looking for an eco-friendly dining set that won't add any unwanted flavors to your food? This BPA-free set, made of 100% recyclable polypropylene, is perfect for you!
The durable, wide-handled cutlery is easy to use with gloves, and the lightweight dinnerware washes up quickly and can be stored in the included mesh bag.
Plus, it weighs less than 8 ounces, making it perfect for carrying on the go. So why not ditch those disposables and make the switch to this reusable GSI mess kit? Your taste buds will thank you!
Why We Love It
Looking for a classic mess kit that will take you back to your days in the military? Look no further than the Goetland 304 Stainless Steel US Military Mess Kit!
This incredible mess kit is made of high-quality stainless steel, making it built to last. It's perfect for cooking and eating outdoors, whether you're camping, hunting, or hiking.
And it comes with everything you need to get started, including a pan, lid, plate, cup, and utensils. So why wait? Check out the Goetland 304 Stainless Steel US Military Mess Kit today!
What You Should Know
This 2 compartment eating tray and cooking pan in one kit is a foldable, lightweight, and durable option for long treks, camping, outdoor activities, and picnics.
The kit is made of 304 Stainless steel (aka 18/8), which is rust proof and dishwasher safe.
The pan size is 8.1x6.5x1.8 inches and the eating tray size is 7.9x6.3x0.8 inches. The handle length is 8.3 inches.
This product is healthy and environmental-friendly. It offers a convenient way to cook and eat while enjoying the outdoors.
Why We Love It
Looking for the perfect mess kit for your next camping trip? Look no further than the Sea to Summit Delta Camp 6-Piece Dinnerware Mess Kit!
This handy set includes all the essentials, including a plate, bowl, mug and 3-piece cutlery set.
Plus, it comes packaged in a handy gusseted mesh pouch that allows wet dishes to air dry.
And when you're done, just throw it all in the included drawstring pouch for easy storage.
So whether you're backpacking through the wilderness or just enjoying a weekend camping trip with friends, make sure to pack the Sea to Summit Delta Camp 6-Piece Dinnerware Mess Kit!
What You Should Know
The concept for the Sea to Summit Delta Camp 6-Piece Dinnerware Mess Kit is simple: provide campers with a lightweight, easy-to-use mess kit that can stand up to the rigors of backpacking and camping.
The six-piece set includes a plate, bowl, mug, fork, knife and spoon, all made from food grade polypropylene that is both cut-resistant and BPA free.
The plate and bowl feature thumb grips that make them easy to hold, and which also double as attachment loops.
The entire set nests together for easy storage, and comes with a gusseted mesh pouch that can be used for carrying or air-drying.
When it's time to clean up, the Sea to Summit Delta Camp 6-Piece Dinnerware Mess Kit is dishwasher safe.
Best of all, at just 10.6 ounces, it won't add much weight to your pack.
So whether you're car camping or backpacking, the Sea to Summit Delta Camp 6-Piece Dinnerware Mess Kit is a great choice for your next adventure.
Why We Love It
Looking for a versatile and compact mess kit for your next outdoor adventure? Look no further than the Coleman Stainless Steel Mess Kit!
This handy little kit includes everything you need to cook up and enjoy just about any meal on the trail, from breakfast to dinner.
The Stainless Steel Mess Kit is made from high-quality materials that are built to last, so you can enjoy many years of use.
The durable stainless steel construction ensures even cooking and easy cleanup, while the included carrying case keeps everything organized and protected.
So whether you're camping, hiking, or backpacking, make sure to pack one of the best stainless steel mess kits from Coleman. It's the perfect way to enjoy a hot meal in the great outdoors!
What You Should Know
The outdoors are calling and you need the right gear to answer. But who wants to schlep a bunch of pots, pans, and dishes when you can just bring one?
The Coleman Stainless Steel Mess Kit is the ultimate comprehensive camping mess kit for anyone who loves to camp, hike, or backpack.
The entire 6-piece set nestles inside the stock pot. Take the stock pot apart and the bottom turns into a sauce pan and the pot lid turns into a separate frying pan with a locking, interchangeable handle.
When the meal is done, enjoy it from the included BPA-free bowl and mug. When you're done, wash the dishes in the mesh dip bag and pack it all up for the next adventure.
Whether you're cooking for one or two, this is the perfect set for anyone who loves to be outdoors.
Why We Love It
We know that when you head outdoors, you want to be able to enjoy your time with friends and family without having to worry about your cookware. That's why the MalloMe Camping Cookware Mess Kit was designed to be the perfect solution for anyone looking for a high quality, great value product.
This outdoor set is perfect for the camping world or bug out bag, and it comes with everything you need to enjoy a delicious meal at the cookout.
With easy to use pots and pans, you'll be able to whip up a meal in no time, and the bowls and plates are perfect for sharing.
Plus, the cutlery set ensures that you can enjoy your meal without having to worry about sharp objects.
What You Should Know
Camping is a great way to get out and enjoy nature, but it can be a bit of a hassle to lug all your gear with you. The MalloMe Camping Cookware Mess Kit makes things a little easier by giving you everything you need to cook a meal, all in one compact bundle.
The anodized aluminum pot and pan are nonstick for easy clean-up, and the two bowls are perfect for serving up dinner.
The set also includes a stainless steel spork, soup spoon, and wooden spoon spatula, so you have all the utensils you need.
Plus, there's even a cleaning sponge and nylon travel bag included. So go ahead and enjoy your camping trip - the MalloMe Camping Cookware Mess Kit has got you covered.
Why We Love It
Looking for a Portable, Lightweight and Durable Camping Cookware Set? Look no further than the REDCAMP 11 PCS Camping Cookware Mess Kit!
This set is perfect for backpackers and campers who are looking for an easy to carry and use set up. The REDCAMP cookware is made of high-quality aluminum that is both lightweight and durable, making it the perfect choice for those who are looking to save space and weight when looking at backpacking mess kits.
The set also comes with a mesh carrying bag so that you can easily store and transport your cookware.
What You Should Know
Camping is a great way to get away from it all and enjoy the outdoors. But, in order to really enjoy your camping trip, you need to have the right gear. That's where REDCAMP comes in.
They offer a wide variety of high-quality camping gear, designed to make your trip more comfortable and enjoyable.
One of their most popular items is the mini camping pots and pans set. This aluminum mess kit set includes everything you need to cook a delicious meal, including a frying pan, pot, bowls, ladle, spatula, and spoon.
Plus, it comes with a storage bag for easy transport. So whether you're planning a solo trip or an extended expedition, be sure to pack the REDCAMP mini camping pots and pans set.
Buyers Guide
Buying Advice – How to Choose A Camping Mess Kit?
Obviously, the camp mess kit comes with various items. Each camp mess set has an aim. What is the perfect camping mess kit? Below you will find the most important things to consider.
Material
Camping mess kits are generally offered in aluminum, stainless steel, or polypropylene.
Aluminum is increasingly used for camp mess kits. Anodizing aluminum provides strong durability, and offers a satisfying user experience thanks to minimal chances of corrosion. Some aluminum cleaning tools cannot be exposed directly to open fire or directly to coal. But for use with fires and campsites, most of the time aluminum mess kits should work very well.
Stainless Steel: stainless steel is one of the most durable and corrosion resistant materials. They are also very easy to keep clean. The main downside to stainless steel is that they are considerably heavier than aluminum or plastic.
Polypropylene: For backpackers, polypropylene is a fantastic lightweight option. The glass-reinforced sort of polypropylene used in mess kits is frequently the type that is heat-resistant. It's BPA-free and highly durable. Polypropylene utensils may be folded down to save room, and they're also quite simple to clean.
Number of people
Mess kits are meant to feed a certain number of people. The pans, pots, and mugs supplied in the mess kit vary depending on the quantity required. As a result, if you're going alone as a solo hiker, don't take a mess kit that feeds 2-3 people since it would just be extra weight and space in your backpack.
Compactness
When backpacking or camping, my preferred mess kits are those that fit all of the pieces inside the big pot while still leaving enough room for a tiny stove like the MSR Pocket Rocket. As a result, I do not like mess kits with bowls or mugs that do not nest or are made in an inconvenient shape..
Weight
As a traveler I always try to reduce the size of my backpack in order to improve my backpacking. So it's better to get a kit with the most value for the space taken up. A polypropylene mess kit is often my best option for a backpacking mess kit.
Price
Like other outdoor equipment, there is also a fairly large cost range for camp kit. You can order serviceable basic or army surplus kits for $10-20. Or spend more than $100 on a premium-level mess kit. When selecting the most suitable features you need to find the perfect one.
Intended use
The most obvious application for a camping mess kit is while on a camping trip. They allow you to serve and eat your meal wherever you happen to be.
Many of the newest camping mess kits contain a cook pot with serving dishes or pack additional dishes into a central pot. If you're looking for a mess kit for your next camping excursion, be sure to check out the best camping mess kits on the market.
Camping Mess Kit FAQ
People are often unsure about what the best camping mess kit is. There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing a mess kit, and it can be hard to figure out which is the right one for you.
We've put together this guide to answer the most common questions people have about the camping mess kits. By understanding the different types and their benefits, you'll be able to choose the best mess kit for your needs.
What should be in a mess kit?
A mess kit should include the essentials for preparing and eating food while on a trip or in an emergency situation. Items that are typically included are a knife, fork, spoon, plate, and cup.
Some people also like to include a can opener, bottle opener, and/or corkscrew in their kits. And if you're packing for a longer trip, you might also want to include some lightweight utensils, seasonings, and snacks.
What are some of the best lightweight utensils for camping?
There are a lot of great options for lightweight utensils that are perfect for camping trips. A few favorites include sporks (which combine a fork and spoon into one handy tool), titanium utensils, and collapsible silicone utensils.
Does the US military still use mess kits?
Yes, the US military still uses mess kits. They are a convenient and lightweight way to carry all of your food and eating supplies. Plus, they're easy to clean and can be used multiple times.
Each soldier is issued a mess kit when they enter the military. The kit includes a metal tray, a cup, a fork, and a knife. The tray can be used as a plate or bowl, the cup can be used as a drinking vessel or for serving food, and the fork and knife can be used for both eating and cutting food.
The mess kit has been in use by the US military since World War II and is still in use today.
Can you boil water in a mess kit?
Yes. A mess kit can be used to boil water. However, it is not the most efficient way to do so.
A mess kit typically contains a metal cup and a metal plate. To boil water using a mess kit, fill the metal cup with water and place it on the metal plate. Place the mess kit over a heat source and wait for the water to boil.
This method is efficient because it uses less fuel than filling the metal plate with water.
How much does a mess kit weigh?
It depends on the kit. But generally, a mess kit will weigh between one and two pounds.
A mess kit is a collection of lightweight cooking and eating utensils typically used by military personnel, campers, hikers, and other outdoor enthusiasts. The typical contents of a mess kit include a fork, spoon, knife, plate, and cup. Some mess kits also include a small stove or burner.
The weight of a mess kit can vary depending on the make and model. But on average, it weighs about one to two pounds. This may not seem like much, but when you're carrying all your gear on your back for an extended period of time, every extra pound counts!
Why are mess cups shaped that way?
There are a few reasons why mess cups are typically shaped the way they are.
First, their shape makes them more stable when placed on a table or other surface. This is especially important when handling hot liquids.
Second, the shape of a mess cup allows for better heat retention, helping to keep contents warm for longer periods of time.
Finally, the design of a mess cup makes it easier to grip and handle, especially when your hands may be wet or slippery. All of these factors help to make mess cups an essential piece of gear for any kitchen.
Are mess kits dishwasher safe?
If you're wondering whether mess kits are dishwasher safe, the answer is yes! You can safely wash your mess kit in the dishwasher, and most mess kits are even designed to be easily cleaned in this way.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when washing your mess kit in the dishwasher:
- Wash your mess kit on the top rack of the dishwasher to avoid damage.
- Be sure to remove any food particles or debris from your mess kit before placing it in the dishwasher.
- Use a mild detergent when washing your mess kit in the dishwasher.
Why does the military call food chow?
Chow is an old term for food that goes back to the 1700s. The word is derived from the French word "choyer" which means "to take care of."
It was first used by the British military and then picked up by the American military.
So why did they call it chow? Probably because of its unsophisticated, utilitarian origins. It was just something to eat, not something to get excited about. And that's still pretty much the case today!
How do you season a mess kit?
When it comes to seasoning a mess kit, there are a few key things to keep in mind.
First, you want to make sure that you clean the mess kit thoroughly before seasoning it. This will help the seasoning adhere better and also prevent any food from sticking to the surface.
Next, you'll want to choose an oil or fat that has a high smoke point so that it doesn't burn when you're cooking with it. Ghee, coconut oil, and lard are all good options.
Once you've oiled the mess kit, heat it up in an oven or on the stovetop until it's hot all over. This will help the seasoning sink into the surface of the metal.
Finally, let the mess kit cool completely before using it.
Following these steps will help you season your mess kit properly and keep it in good condition for years to come.
What is a scout mess kit?
A scout mess kit is a compact, lightweight camping cookware set. It typically includes a nesting pot and pan, a plate, a cup, and a utensil. This type of cookware set is ideal for Scouts or backpackers who need to pack light without sacrificing cooking capabilities.
Many scout mess kits also come with their own storage bag, which makes them easy to take on the go. Some even include adjustable straps that allow you to wear the kit like a backpack, so you can have your hands free while you're hiking.
Whether you're camping or backpacking in the great outdoors, or just preparing for an emergency at home, a scout mess kit is an essential piece of gear to have in your arsenal.
Where can Civilians get MREs?
MREs (Meals Ready-to-Eat) are conveniently packaged meals that are self-contained and easy to store. They were first developed for military personnel, but nowadays they are available for purchase by civilians as well.
There are a few different ways that civilians can obtain MREs. One option is to buy them online from various retailers.
Another option is to find stores that sell camping or survival gear, as they may also sell MREs.
And finally, some military surplus stores sell MREs as well.
Assuming you don't have any specific dietary restrictions, MREs can be a great option for food storage because they have a long shelf life and require no cooking (just add water to the included flameless heater).
Best Camping Mess Kit for You
So, if you are looking for a camping mess kit that will make your meals easy to eat then the best option for you is to go with any of the camping mess kits recommended in this article.
All of them have received great reviews and will surely meet your needs.
Make sure to consider all the factors mentioned before purchasing a mess kit so that you can make an informed decision and enjoy a hot meal during your next outdoor adventure!
