14 Essential Pieces of Backpacking Cooking Gear

• GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Backpacker Cookset, $95

With a nesting 2-liter saucepan, nonstick frying pan, detachable handle, lid with strainer, and two each of interchangeable mugs and insulated bowls, this cookset can handle most cooking needs for a group of four, if you bring separate plates. The carry sack doubles as a sink for washing dishes.

• MSR Dragonfly Stove, $105

For precise cooking (as opposed to simply heating), this model has an adjustable flame that goes from flicker to full-blast. Its sturdy, stable base holds a pot up to 10 inches wide, and the stove works with a variety of fuel types. Windscreen included; fuel bottle and fuel sold separately.

• Snow Peak Giga Power Stove-Auto, $45

Small but mighty, this stove folds up to fit in a palm-size carrying case but puts out a lot of power to heat food quickly. The auto-start feature and adjustable flame make it extra easy to use. Fuel canisters sold separately.

• MSR Alpine Utensil Set, $16.50

The cuteness factor might be enough reason to buy this folding set, but you’ll soon appreciate its usefulness. The grater doubles as a strainer, the spatula has a serrated cutting edge, and the ladle is also a measuring cup.

• Bic Classic Disposable Lighter, pack of 3 for $5.75

Matches may have an old-timey charm, but carry a butane lighter and you can light your stove even when it’s breezy.

• GSI Ultralight Cutting Board, Small, $3

You’ll be surprised how much you can do with a surface that’s roughly the size of your hand. This board weighs only 2.4 oz. but is plenty sturdy, and big enough for cutting up quesadillas or dicing avocado.

• Opinel No. 8 beechwood knife, $24

Compact enough for a pocket but rugged enough for cooking, this knife is a perennial favorite for its classic good looks, durability, and razor-sharp blade. The Opinel company, located in the French Alps, has been manufacturing their folding knives since 1890.

• Katadyn Hiker Pro Microfilter, $64

Here’s an example of how well-made equipment can really enhance your outdoor experience. In the backcountry, where you have to rely on streams or lakes for water, having a filter that's easy to use, lightweight, and reliable is key. Unlike comparable models, this one is built to last and there aren't a bunch of small pieces to lose. The Katadyn is compatible with basically every bottle or bladder, so you can share it with anyone you hike with. And the flow rate is pretty fast, so you can get back on the trail or started cooking quickly.

• Nalgene Everyday Wide Mouth Water Bottle, 1 Quart, $11.50

Sure, you use it for carrying water and gorp, but this standby bottle has measurements on the side that make it useful for cooking, too. This durable model is BPA-free.

• Snow Peak Titanium Trek Plate, $17.25

Lightweight (only 2 oz.), sturdy, and beautiful, this titanium plate has rounded edges, meaning it will capture the sauce on your backpacking panang curry as well as the dripping syrup on your French toast.

• Snow Peak Titanium Trek Bowl, $18.16

Deep and generously sized, this bowl is perfect for everything from backcountry soups to serious portions of café au lait.

• Snow Peak Titanium Spork, $10

When you’re on the trail, simple things can make a big difference. This utensil has just the right shape and balance to make it a pleasure to hold and behold as well as eat with.

• Snow Peak Titanium Double 450 mug, $60

This handsome vessel has double walls to insulate your drink and keep it warm, and folding handles for compact storage in your pack.

• BearVault Model BV 450 Solo Food Canister, $59

Don’t let the bears take your food! This canister has a wide mouth and transparent sides for easy use, and rugged, shatterproof construction to foil grizzlies as well as black bears. Bring several to accommodate a group.