To make your choice of the right Backpacking Cookware to take, you will first need to know what is available on the market for you to buy. At first this can be a bit confusing simply because of the amount of different backpacking cookware that you will come across. But with a little knowledge and a few tips, you should be able to buy exactly what you need. Below is a list of the most popular types of backpacking cookware, along with their good and bad points.
ALUMINIUM.
This used to be the first choice of backpackers, lightweight campers, and hikers because it is very light. However it is not as strong or durable as some of the other materials used for cookware. Food tends to stick to it making it difficult to clean in an outdoor situation. Also Aluminium has been linked to some health problems, as it tends to breakdown over time and can contaminate the food cooked in it. Having said this, I have used Aluminium for many years with no harmful effects. (I would still rate it as a good choice as you will properly only be using it for a few weeks of any one year.)
STAINLESS STEEL.
The main drawback here is the weight, as it is a lot heavier than other types of backpacking cookware. Also it is not the best at distributing the heat evenly and the food must be stirred or moved constantly to ensure even cooking. Stainless steel is very tough and strong though, and will stand up to almost anything that can happen to it in the outdoors.
LIGHTWEIGHT STAINLESS STEEL.
The introduction of new technology has come up with a lighter weight stainless steel, it has all the durability and strength, but as its name suggests is considerably lighter.
TITANIUM.
The modern first choice. It is very light, it is also very durable and tough, and a better distributor of heat when compared to stainless steel. A good set of Titanium cookware will last a very long time. The only downside is its price, as it can be expensive when compared with the other materials.
A FEW BASIC TIPS.
(1) Are you choosing a solo backpacking set of cookware, or do you want a kit that will do for two or more people?
(2) Pots with a slightly rounded bottom will distribute heat better than flat bottomed ones.
(3) Make sure the pots have a good fitting lid, as this will cut down on your cooking times, saving you fuel.
(4) Try to buy proper Backpacking Cookware as opposed to ordinary cookware, as the former should have folding or detachable handles to make packing it into your backpack much easier.
These are just a few basic tips to think of when you are looking for your backpacking cookware. Keeping these ideas in mind when you go to buy your backpacking cookware you should come away with a set that is perfect for you and your needs.
