Camping and Backpacking GEAR thread

I use Sawyer. I can filter enough for a group or enough for me. Takes a few minutes but I filter while I set up camp

 

Sawyer mini is the current most popular filter among lightweight enthusiasts.

 

This thread (along with the overlanding thread) has proved invaluable.

I'm now building my new camp kitchen setup and need help.

I want to build a new setup from scratch with your recommendations so I only need to buy once instead of wasting money on items I don't need.

So... What would you guys and gals recommend for:

Utensils (I usually bring plastic)
Dishware (plates/cups/etc)
Mixing bowls
Spice containers
Camp kitchen/tables

Again, I'm building an entire kitchen from scratch (except stove and storage box) and would love your input!

I already have a nice stove/griddle/grill box.

Thanks in advance!

@Crom @Leppz @MrGrimm @Spixelz
@MTgirl
@Mademan925

 

I guess you don't need them to be lightweight? If not, standard sporks or utensils from Light My Fire are good. If yes, titanium stuff from Snow Peak is nice. Cheap plastic plates and bowls from Walmart or similar would work fine. If space is a concern you can use the collapsible bowls from companies like Sea to Summit. If weight IS a concern and/or you want to use them backpacking as well, you can buy titanium stuff, but it's expensive.

I have a kind of collapsible aluminum camp table for car camping. The top comes off and rolls up and the legs collapse like a folding chair. It doesn't take up too much space. It's relatively small (maybe 30" x 30"), but you could probably find a larger one if needed. Or, just bring a folding table from LifeTime/Rubbermaid if you have the space.

There are "camping" versions of spice containers, like this:

https://www.rei.com/product/815538/gsi-outdoors-spice-missile

But it's up to you if you want something like that or can just bring small containers of separate spices. All depends on space/weight considerations.

 

Thanks for the info. I forgot to mention that weight is NOT an issue. We mainly car camp due to convenience and the RTT. I really need a functional cooking setup.

I should have added that I already have a smaller REI folding aluminum table like you mentioned. It works really well and rolls into a small bag. Super light, takes up little room, and is durable and easy to clean.

The spice container is a great idea. Our friends found similar containers at a $1 store - of course they were marketed as something else but look identical.

Thanks!

We do prep our food at home. So nice to just toss it on the grill.

We have a Camp Chef Explorer 2 burner with a griddle and a BBQ box (again, I'm a food snob ). It works great. Super impressed with it. It does get a few hot spots but I'm learning how to work around it.

We usually have spots to dump dish water so good reusable dishes would be fine. We also bring along paper plates and cups. Either way we're good. I just wanted to get options ok what people use.

How about knives? Any recommendations?

 

Hah! No pizza oven for me either.

I opted for the Explorer as I end up turning into the camp chef. I don't mind it and it brings people together. They chip in for propane and wash dishes when needed.

I can also cook on the fire and make a mean tri-tip and "hobo stew."

Any melamine plates you recommend?

 

Nice! I will probably hunt for a few end-cap clearance plates. My wife is a super bargain hunter. Sounds like she has a new challenge!

 

I went to Cabela's and found this on clearance. Not sure why... Except that they may be clearing our inventory for winter gear? Lots of sales going on there.

 

Totally get it!

I appreciate the suggestions.

 

My backpacking gear took me here for an overnighter.

 

Where dis?

 

Fletcher Lake. Yosemite. Vogelsang High Sierra Camp is at the far end. It's about 7 miles each way.

 

And here I am living in a desert.

 

My home is in the drought zone. Barely keeping my tomato plants alive... Had to hike up to 10k for this one. And it was hot!

 

Don't think this is a one time use code but I don't need it so I hope it helps someone save a couple bucks.



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