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(click to see how this cookware packs)

Backpackers expend lots of energy enjoying their sport and require eating frequently in order to keep up with the physical demands. While most foods eaten on the trail are typically dry foods, prepared in advance, and packaged for convenience, it's still nice to end the day with a hot meal and to wake up the next morning to steaming coffee or tea. In order to do that you'll need some backpacking cookware.

When I began backpacking, I was a lightweight, carrying only a day-pack, a sleeping bag, water, and foods that didn't need cooking. Most of my trips were 2-3 days, and the Arizona climate didn't require much extra clothes, so I got by just fine. In the 80's I had returned to Kentucky and while there had planned a trip to the Smoky Mountains with two friends. I needed to gear up for this trip, mostly for protection from rain, but I also bought new cookware. Since three of us were going, and none of us had cookware, I decided on the Peak 1 Stainless Steel Trekkers Kit.

The Trekkers Kit was ideal because it had two pots and a skillet which should suffice for cooking meals for all three of us. The kit was stainless steel and included 1.3 (with lid) and 2 quart pots, a 7-inch frying pan which also serves as a lid for the larger pot, and an aluminum windscreen for use with a backpack stove. I complimented this kit by adding a stainless steel drinking cup, which also served well as a bowl for eating. All of this fit compactly into a heavy gauge stuff sack. This cookware has lasted these many years and remains like new.

You can still buy this cookware today at many sporting goods stores and online retailers for about $30. There are many great kits on the market and the only suggestion I'd make would be to get stainless steel. The number and sizes of pots will depend on your personal needs and eating habits. These kits are also great for solo campers concerned about space. And just think, on those chilly mornings outdoors when you're warming your bones with a hot drink, you'll be glad you added cookware to your camping gear list.

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(Photo copyright 2001 David J. Sweet, licensed to About, Inc.)