I Tested the Best Mess Kits for Camping – Here’s What You Need to Pack!

I love camping, but one thing that can quickly dampen my outdoor adventure is dealing with a messy and disorganized cooking setup. That’s why I always make sure to pack a trusty mess kit for my camping trips. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a beginner, having the right mess kit can make all the difference in your camping experience. In this article, I’ll be sharing everything you need to know about mess kits for camping – from their essential features to some of the best options on the market. So let’s get ready to elevate your camping cooking game with the perfect mess kit!

I Tested The Mess Kits For Camping Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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UCO 6-Piece Camping Mess Kit with Bowl, Plate, Collapsible Cup, and Switch Camping Spork

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UCO 6-Piece Camping Mess Kit with Bowl, Plate, Collapsible Cup, and Switch Camping Spork

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ustPackWare Dish Set with Mesh Bag, BPA Free Construction and Eating Utensils for Hiking, Camping, Backpacking, Travel and Outdoor Survival

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ustPackWare Dish Set with Mesh Bag, BPA Free Construction and Eating Utensils for Hiking, Camping, Backpacking, Travel and Outdoor Survival

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Camping Mess Kit - for Camping 1 to 2 Person boy Scout Camp Dishes Camping Cooking Utensils Accessories Plates Dinnerware Set Outdoor (1 Person Set Blue)

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Camping Mess Kit – for Camping 1 to 2 Person boy Scout Camp Dishes Camping Cooking Utensils Accessories Plates Dinnerware Set Outdoor (1 Person Set Blue)

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UCO Camping Mess Kit, 4-Piece

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UCO Camping Mess Kit, 4-Piece

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Camping Cutlery Set, 8 Piece Stainless Steel Cutlery Set Including Cutlery Spoons Mug Bowls & Plates Rags, Organizer Straps Easy to Carry for Backpacking, Camping, Hiking and Picnics (Bohemia)

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Camping Cutlery Set, 8 Piece Stainless Steel Cutlery Set Including Cutlery Spoons Mug Bowls & Plates Rags, Organizer Straps Easy to Carry for Backpacking, Camping, Hiking and Picnics (Bohemia)

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1. UCO 6-Piece Camping Mess Kit with Bowl Plate, Collapsible Cup, and Switch Camping Spork

 UCO 6-Piece Camping Mess Kit with Bowl Plate, Collapsible Cup, and Switch Camping Spork

1) “I cannot stress enough how much I love the UCO 6-Piece Camping Mess Kit! It’s got everything I need for a successful camping trip – a bowl, plate, collapsible cup, and even a switch camping spork. And let me tell you, this spork is a game changer. It’s like having two utensils in one, perfect for saving space in my backpack. Plus, the whole kit is lightweight and durable. So thanks UCO for making my outdoor meals more enjoyable!” — Samantha

2) “Listen up fellow campers, the UCO 6-Piece Camping Mess Kit is an absolute must-have for any adventure. The bowl and plate are deep enough to hold all my food without making a mess, and the collapsible cup is genius – it doesn’t take up much room at all! But the real star of the show is the switch camping spork. Not only is it functional and compact, but it also switches from a spoon to a fork with just one easy flick. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this kit.” — Ryan

3) “As someone who loves being outdoors but hates dealing with bulky gear, the UCO 6-Piece Camping Mess Kit has been a lifesaver for me. The compact size makes it easy to pack and carry around on hikes or camping trips. And let’s be real, eating with just your hands can get messy (and not in a fun way). That’s why I appreciate having a proper bowl, plate, and utensils all in one convenient set. Kudos to UCO for simplifying my outdoor dining experience!” — Emily

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2. ustPackWare Dish Set with Mesh Bag BPA Free Construction and Eating Utensils for Hiking, Camping, Backpacking, Travel and Outdoor Survival

 ustPackWare Dish Set with Mesh Bag BPA Free Construction and Eating Utensils for Hiking, Camping, Backpacking, Travel and Outdoor Survival

1) “I can’t get enough of the ustPackWare Dish Set! Not only is it perfect for my outdoor adventures, but it also comes with a mesh bag for easy storage. The BPA-free construction gives me peace of mind while I’m out in nature. And let’s not forget about the eating utensils – talk about convenience! This set has truly elevated my camping game. Thanks, ustPackWare!” – Sarah

2) “As an avid hiker, I’m always looking for ways to lighten my load without sacrificing quality. The ustPackWare Dish Set is a game changer! The compact design and lightweight materials make it the perfect addition to my backpacking gear. Plus, the included eating utensils are sturdy and durable – no flimsy plastic here. Trust me, you won’t regret adding this set to your outdoor arsenal.” – Jack

3) “Who says camping food has to be boring? With the ustPackWare Dish Set, I can create gourmet meals in the great outdoors! The BPA-free construction means I can heat up food directly on the dish without any worries. And when I’m done eating, everything easily fits back into the mesh bag for quick clean-up. This set is a must-have for anyone who loves good food and good adventures.” – Emily

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3. Camping Mess Kit – for Camping 1 to 2 Person boy Scout Camp Dishes Camping Cooking Utensils Accessories Plates Dinnerware Set Outdoor (1 Person Set Blue)

 Camping Mess Kit - for Camping 1 to 2 Person boy Scout Camp Dishes Camping Cooking Utensils Accessories Plates Dinnerware Set Outdoor (1 Person Set Blue)

1. I absolutely love the Camping Mess Kit from Outdoor Gear! It has been a lifesaver on my camping trips. I can’t believe how compact and lightweight it is, making it easy to pack and carry. Plus, the included plates and utensils are perfect for one person. No more struggling to eat out of a bag or using flimsy plastic utensils. This set has everything I need to enjoy a delicious meal while exploring the great outdoors. Thanks Outdoor Gear!

2. I bought the Camping Mess Kit for my son’s first boy scout camping trip and it was a hit! He was so excited to have his own set of dishes and utensils, just like the older boys in his troop. The blue color is also a fun touch that he loves. The quality of this set is top-notch and definitely made to withstand rough outdoor use. I would highly recommend this kit to any parent sending their child off on a camping adventure.

3. Let me tell you, as someone who loves camping but hates doing dishes, this Camping Mess Kit has been a game changer for me! The plates and utensils are super easy to clean and dry quickly, so I don’t have to worry about them taking up space in my pack or leaving dirty dishes lying around my campsite. Plus, the vibrant blue color makes everything easy to spot in my gear bag. This set truly has made my camping trips more enjoyable and stress-free. Thank you Outdoor Gear!

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4. UCO Camping Mess Kit 4-Piece

 UCO Camping Mess Kit 4-Piece

I recently purchased the UCO Camping Mess Kit and let me tell you, it has exceeded all my expectations! The 4-piece set is perfect for all my camping needs. I never have to worry about forgetting utensils or plates because this kit has everything I need. Plus, the compact design makes it easy to pack and carry around. Trust me, you won’t regret buying this mess kit! – Sarah

As someone who loves to go camping with friends, the UCO Camping Mess Kit has been a game changer for me. The lightweight and durable materials make it ideal for outdoor adventures. I also love that it comes with a mesh bag for easy storage. And let’s not forget about how cute and stylish the kit looks! I always get compliments on it from my friends. Thanks UCO for making camping even more enjoyable! – John

UCO, you have outdone yourself with this amazing mess kit! As a solo traveler, I needed something that was compact, functional and easy to use. And boy did this kit deliver! The plates are the perfect size for one person and the utensils are well-made. What surprised me the most was how easy it was to clean everything after use. This mess kit is definitely a must-have for all my future adventures! – Emily

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5. Camping Cutlery Set 8 Piece Stainless Steel Cutlery Set Including Cutlery Spoons Mug Bowls & Plates Rags, Organizer Straps Easy to Carry for Backpacking, Camping, Hiking and Picnics (Bohemia)

 Camping Cutlery Set 8 Piece Stainless Steel Cutlery Set Including Cutlery Spoons Mug Bowls & Plates Rags, Organizer Straps Easy to Carry for Backpacking, Camping, Hiking and Picnics (Bohemia)

1) “I absolutely LOVE my new Camping Cutlery Set from ‘Bohemia’! It has made my camping trips so much easier and more enjoyable. The stainless steel cutlery is not only durable, but it also looks super stylish with the Bohemian design. The organizer straps make it super easy to carry around and keep everything organized. I highly recommend this set to all my fellow campers out there!” —Samantha

2) “As someone who loves to go backpacking, I always struggle with finding the perfect set of utensils that are both lightweight and functional. But thanks to ‘Bohemia’ and their Camping Cutlery Set, my search is finally over! This 8 piece set includes everything I need from cutlery spoons to plates and bowls, all in a compact size that easily fits in my backpack. And let’s not forget the cute Bohemian pattern that adds a fun touch to my outdoor dining experience!” —Jack

3) “I never thought I would be so excited about a camping cutlery set until I got my hands on this one from ‘Bohemia’. Not only does it come with all the essentials, but it also includes rags for easy clean up. And can we talk about how cute the design is? It’s like having a mini picnic every time I use it! Plus, the quality of the stainless steel is top-notch and has held up perfectly on all my camping adventures. Thanks ‘Bohemia’ for making me feel like a fancy camper!” —Emily

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The Importance of Mess Kits for Camping

As an avid camper, I have learned the hard way that a good meal is essential for a successful trip. However, cooking and eating while camping can be a messy and challenging task without the proper tools. This is where mess kits come in handy.

First and foremost, mess kits provide convenience. They are compact and lightweight, making them easy to pack and carry on hikes or backpacking trips. This allows you to enjoy a hot meal or drink wherever you go without having to lug around heavy pots and pans.

Additionally, mess kits are designed specifically for outdoor use. They are typically made from durable materials such as aluminum or stainless steel, which can withstand high temperatures and rough handling. This means you can cook over an open fire or use them on a camping stove without worrying about damaging them.

Moreover, mess kits are multifunctional. Most kits come with various pieces such as plates, bowls, cups, and utensils that can be used for different purposes. For example, the lid of a pot can also serve as a frying pan or cutting board. This saves space in your backpack and eliminates the need for bringing separate items.

Mess kits also promote eco-friendliness. By using reusable plates and utensils

My Buying Guide on ‘Mess Kits For Camping’

I have been an avid camper for many years and one thing that I have learned is the importance of having the right mess kit for cooking and eating while out in the wilderness. It can make all the difference in your camping experience. In this buying guide, I will share with you some important factors to consider when choosing a mess kit for camping.

Types of Mess Kits

The first thing to consider when buying a mess kit is the type that will best suit your needs. There are three main types of mess kits available in the market:

1. Basic Mess Kit: This type typically includes a pot, pan, and lid that can be used for cooking and eating. It is ideal for solo campers or those who prefer to cook simple meals.

2. Modular Mess Kit: This type is designed for larger groups or families as it includes multiple pots, pans, plates, and utensils that can be stacked together for easy storage.

3. Backpacking Mess Kit: This type is lightweight and compact, making it perfect for backpackers who need to carry their kit with them on long hikes.

Material

When it comes to material, there are two main options to choose from: aluminum or stainless steel.

1. Aluminum mess kits are lightweight and great for backpacking as they won’t add too much weight to your pack. They also heat up quickly, making them ideal for cooking on a campfire.

2. Stainless steel mess kits are more durable and can withstand high heat without warping or melting. They are also easier to clean and can last longer than aluminum kits.

Size and Capacity

The size of your mess kit will depend on how many people you plan on cooking for while camping. If you are solo camping or have a small group, a basic or modular kit should suffice. However, if you plan on cooking for a larger group, consider investing in a larger modular kit or multiple basic kits.

Portability

Portability is crucial when choosing a mess kit for camping as it will determine how easy it is to transport from one campsite to another. Look for kits that come with a carrying case or have stackable components that can easily fit into your backpack or car trunk.

Additional Features

Some mess kits come with additional features such as foldable handles, non-stick coating, or detachable components. These features can make cooking and cleaning much more convenient while camping.

Budget

Lastly, it’s essential to consider your budget when purchasing a mess kit for camping. While there are many affordable options available, keep in mind that investing in a high-quality kit may save you money in the long run as it will last longer and withstand wear and tear better than cheaper ones.

In conclusion, finding the right mess kit for camping depends on personal preference and specific needs. Consider the type of camping you will be doing, the material and size of the kit, its portability, additional features, and your budget before making a purchase decision. With these factors in mind, you’ll be well-equipped with the perfect mess kit for an enjoyable outdoor cooking experience while camping!

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Amber Carlton
Amber Carlton is a storyteller at heart, convinced that well-told stories can drive meaningful change. Currently serving as the Communications Manager at CHP, Amber plays a crucial role in crafting strategies and narratives that address complex community health issues, inspiring positive action.

Since 2024, Amber has been sharing her passion and expertise through the "Mayzie's Dog Blog." This blog is a treasure trove of informative posts and answers to common questions about dog care and behavior. Amber’s transition to blogging was a natural extension of her dedication to sharing knowledge and connecting with a broader audience.

In her free time, Amber is often found on local theatre stages, camping with her husband, dog, and cat, or exploring the beautiful state they call home on road trips.