The reason why people go camping is to test their mettle. If you do not prepare adequately, your camping trip could turn into a disaster. When it comes to preparations, the first thing that comes to mind is the tents. However, utensils are equally important. We all need food to survive, no matter where we are. That’s why even campers require essential dinnerware to eat their food. Why not treat yourself to the best camping dinnerware?
If the idea of taking your regular kitchen utensils on camping does not seem appealing to you, you can choose to buy yourself a set of dinnerware instead. There are a variety of different companies out there that make camping dinnerware.
This guide will tell you everything you need to know about the best camping dinnerware available on the market so that you can make an informed decision. So, let’s get started!
Top 10 Best Camping Dinnerware – Quick Snapshot!
- GSI 1-Person Table Set
- Wealers Stainless Steel Plates Set
- UCO Camping Mess Kit
- GCI Destination Kitchen Set
- Yinshine Camping Dinnerware Set
- FOODLE Dinnerware Sets
- Barbeqa Camping Mess Kit
- STANSPORT Enamel Tableware Set
- 2-Persons Dinner Set by Coleman
- Bigsear Stainless Steel Dinnerware Kit
Buyers’ Guide – How to Choose the Best Camping Dinnerware
Camping dinnerware sets are an excellent investment. Not only are they affordable, but they are beneficial as well. However, you need to find a balance between the product features and the expenses. That’s because an expensive product does not necessarily indicate that it’s better than others.
For your convenience, we have come up with a quick buying guide for the best camping dinnerware to help you make an appropriate decision. Let’s check it out below.
• Size
The size of the dinnerware is one of the most critical factors you need to consider when buying camping dinnerware. You must go for a size that is closely related to your use of dinnerware.
If you plan to take your personal transport to the camping site, the dinnerware must be small enough to fit into the trunk. Otherwise, there is no use in buying it. The size and weight of the product are often listed on the packaging or in the specs section of the website. Therefore, you can easily check out whether it will suit you or not and make a wise decision.
• Weight
The weight of the dinnerware depends not only on the number of pieces but also on the material used in manufacturing. The weight can range from less than one pound to more than four pounds. Therefore, you need to make sure that you check out the product description before you buy dinnerware for your camping needs.
If the distance between the place where you park your car and your camping destination is smaller, then you can go for heavy dinnerware. However, if you are not in favor of carrying something heavy, then lightweight dinnerware could be a suitable option for you.
• Material
Various types of materials are used in the making of camping dinnerware. All the materials have their ups and downs when it comes to usability, weight, and durability.
You should go camping with dinnerware made from strong material. While plastic is a popular material, it is not biodegradable. For this reason, the majority of environmentally conscious campers tend to avoid it.
An alternative option for such campers is enamel. But although enamel is light in weight, it is not durable. Moreover, some enamel plates are prone to denting and chipping as well. So, if you don’t find enamel suitable, you can go camping with dinnerware made from aluminum.
• Durability
Camping trips can be extremely rough. Your vehicle will face a lot of jerks on the way. Therefore, your dinnerware needs to be durable enough to survive all those bumps on the road.
For this purpose, the weight of the dinnerware is a vital factor to consider. While there is much durable camping dinnerware available on the market, most of them are quite heavy. On the other hand, there are some dangerously fragile dishes on the market as well.
As a result, you must find a balance between the dinnerware and its weight. Try to go for ones that are light in weight and durable enough to last a few camping trips.
• Functionality
Campers are encouraged to buy small dinnerware because it helps them fit more plates and bowls into their backpacks. However, an even better approach is to go for products that can perform multiple functions at once.
For example, you may come across cups that can also be used as plates and bowls. Thus, you should prioritize such items to get maximum functionality. This will enable you to carry fewer dishes, and the weight of your luggage will be far less.
Our 10 Best Picks of Camping Dinnerware for You
Buying the best set of camping dinnerware can undoubtedly be an overwhelming task because of the range of options available out there. But, you don’t need to worry anymore. We have listed our top ten picks for you below. Let’s check them out!
1. GSI 1-Person Table Set
The camping dinnerware set by GSI is an excellent example of how, at times, less can be more. This set is perfect for solo campers and hikers looking for an upgrade. You can even order multiple kits if you plan to go camping with your friends or family.
This affordable dinnerware includes a 6-inch bowl, a 9-inch plate, and a mug with a capacity of 12 ounces. In addition to this, there is a full-size knife, fork, and spoon as well.
The dinnerware is made of recyclable polypropylene. The best thing about polypropylene is that it is incredibly light in weight. Moreover, it does not retain any odor even if you use it intensively. What we like most about this dinnerware is that the handles are extra wide. As a result, it can easily fit into your hands even if you are wearing gloves. Moreover, the mesh bag makes the dinnerware more portable.
Maintaining the dinnerware is also extremely easy. All you need to do is rinse it with some soap and water, and you are good to go!
Pros
- Extremely affordable
- Mesh bag improves portability
- Excellent customer reviews
Cons
- Several users may find the use of plastic to be problematic
2. Wealers Stainless Steel Plates Set
The set of stainless steel plates by Wealers is one of the best you will find on the market. It offers a great advantage to users since you can use it repeatedly during your trip. In addition, these plates are durable and don’t lose their beauty over time. That’s because they do not shatter even if you accidentally drop them. Another great advantage of using them is that they are toxin-free and completely safe for food. Moreover, they even come with mesh bags to use for carrying.
It is essential to clean the utensils properly while camping. That’s why many people prefer this product on their trips as cleaning them doesn’t require much effort.
Furthermore, stainless steel plates are incredibly light in weight, and their transportation is relatively easy. However, a drawback to these plates is that they can be uncomfortable to hold if you put hot food on them. Regardless, they are pretty good for saving space since you can stack them vertically.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Easy to clean
Cons
- It does not include a set of spoons
3. UCO Camping Mess Kit
If you are looking for a set of dinnerware that packs multiple accessories into one compact set, then you should check out the UCO Camping Mess Kit. The basic components of the kit include a bowl, a plate, and a spork that is multifunctional. Additionally, there is a tether that secures the equipment and its contents.
One of the best things about this dinnerware set is that you can use the bowl and plate as a container for storing snacks and dry foods such as survival bread. That’s because the bowl and the plate are connected using an airtight seal. Furthermore, the spork of the dinnerware is quite multifunctional. You can use it as a spoon, fork, or knife. Thus, all your cutlery needs are combined into a single lightweight item.
Moreover, the rope helps users secure the spork on the plate and bowl combo. This reduces the chances of spare parts getting lost in your pack. Plus, there are rubberized grips on the bottom of the plate and bowl. As a result, your dinnerware will no longer slip off of your camp table.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Used for food storage
- Affordable
Cons
- Not resistant to heat
4. GCI Destination Kitchen Set
This camping dinnerware consists of an entire set of cooking utensils to ensure a smooth camping experience. It comes with a cloth as well. You can use the fabric to keep your utensils safe and secure on your camping trip. The set has four knives, two condiments, a camp towel, a pivot spatula, a small cheese grater, a chopping board, four forks, and a spice shaker, among other items.
It is not possible to carry all those things individually. But, the great thing about this camping set is that it is incredibly well-organized. As a result, the utensils will not seem cumbersome if you need to carry them around. The GCI Destination Kitchen Set is suitable for camping and provides an excellent outdoor dining experience. That’s because it has all the necessary tools and utensils you need for fine dining.
Pros
- Durable
- Compact
- Efficient
Cons
- Limited to only four people
5. Yinshine Camping Dinnerware Set
We liked the Yinshine Camping Dinnerware Set because it is super portable, sturdy, stackable, and light. In addition to this, the dinnerware set has a vibrant blue finish and an attractive rustic design. This is what makes this camping set perfect for both indoor and outdoor activities.
The set can easily serve four people as it includes four dinner plates, four bowls, and four salad plates. The entire collection is made of melamine and weighs 4.9 pounds. This is what makes it unbreakable.
However, you cannot use this dinnerware set in your microwave since it is not microwave-safe. But, on the brighter side, it is break-resistant and dishwasher-safe. As a result, this product is a popular choice among hikers and campers.
Pros
- The set is relatively lightweight
- Extraordinarily durable and shatter-proof material
- The dinnerware is BPA-free
- Safe to be used in a dishwasher
Cons
- You cannot use this set in the microwave
6. Foodle dinnerware set
The FOODLE Dinnerware Set consists of 28 pieces of cutlery. This is what makes it a complete set of dinnerware that you can get for your camping trip. In fact, it is one of the finest sets of dinnerware available on the market. One of the best things about this dinnerware is that it is not a burden on your pocket. Thus, you can get it for your trip without breaking the bank.
Another great thing about the set is that it is incredibly light in weight. You will be surprised to know that the entire set only weighs 2.5lbs. This makes the product incredibly easy to carry around!
Furthermore, cleaning the dinnerware is relatively easy. All you need to do is wash the utensils in water to clean the entire set without damaging it. You can also use this set as a part of your regular dinnerware once you are home. What’s more, you can use the set in the microwave as well. Great, isn’t it?
Pros
- The utensils are almost unbreakable
- The set is incredibly lightweight
- Suitable for both adults and children
Cons
- The knives are not sharp enough
7. Barbeqa Camping Mess Kit
Four people can easily use the Barbeqa Camping Mess Kit. Additionally, it has a mesh bag too. This makes the kit easier to carry around. The equipment is a complete set for camping and includes four plates, four cups, four forks, four bowls, and four spoons. You can use the set for a picnic, hiking, and several other activities.
The plates measure 9.5 inches and are perfect for all types of food. The bowls are ideal for fruits, vegetables, and soups. Furthermore, you can use the cups for drinking all kinds of drinks as they are suitable for both hot and cold ones. All the plates, cups, and bowls are available in different colors. Additionally, there are sporks in the set as well. You can use these sporks for various purposes.
One of the best things about this kit is that it is highly affordable compared to other camping kits out there. What’s more, you can easily clean them as they are odor resistant.
Pros
- The set is affordable compared to others
- Made from durable material
- The brand is quite reliable
Cons
- The fork can be uncomfortable to use at times
8. STANSPORT Enamel Tableware Set
The STANSPORT Enamel Tableware Set is quite popular among campers these days. That’s because it provides great functionality and quality. Not only that, but the camping set also offers excellent value for money. For this reason, it is known as one of the most affordable camping dinnerware sets out there.
One of our favorite features of this camping dinnerware is its design and style. The set comes in a classic blue color with a double coating of enamel.
It is a comprehensive kit that four people can easily use. The set includes four plates, mugs, bowls, and cutlery. Although the set is a bit too large for backpackers and hikers, it is perfect for car campers, RV enthusiasts, and families.
Pros
- Heat resistant
- Provides excellent value for money
- The plates have a stainless steel rim
- It has a double coating of the enamel finish
Cons
- Not suitable for backpackers and hikers
9. 2-Persons Dinner Set by Coleman
Suppose you are looking for an affordable dinner set that offers quality, value, and durability. In that case, you should check out the dinnerware set by Coleman, as it perfectly fits all your needs. The dinnerware consists of two plates, two bowls, two mugs, and three sets of cutleries. In addition, all of the utensils are made of polystyrene, which allows the set to be extremely light in weight.
Additionally, the set arrives packed in a mesh bag. This makes it easier to carry the dinnerware around. You can even use the mesh bag to dry the utensils after washing them. Furthermore, the set weighs approximately 0.5kg when it is fully packed.
On top of that, the plates and bowls are excellent space savers. However, you cannot stack the cups together because of their handles. Although the cutlery is highly durable, there is a chance that it might snap if handled carelessly.
Pros
- It comes with a mesh mag
- Exceptionally lightweight
- Includes a wide variety of utensils
Cons
- Not heat-resistant
10. Bigsear Stainless Steel Dinnerware Kit
The Bigsear dinnerware camping kit is one of the most durable camping kits out there. That’s because it is made of the highest quality stainless steel. The set contains dinner plates, cups, bowls, and a complete set of cutlery. There is also a mesh bag for the transportation and storage of the dinnerware as well.
What makes the dinnerware the perfect camping set is that it is light in weight. Moreover, it is effortless to clean the tableware since it is dishwasher-friendly. As a result, all you need to do is simply wipe the utensils with soapy water.
This camping dinnerware has excellent functionality and style. It conducts heat quite well and is also break-resistant. This is what makes it a popular choice among hikers and campers.
Pros
- One of the most durable camping dinnerware
- Relatively lightweight utensils
- Incredibly easy to clean
- The material is shatterproof
- Offers excellent style and functionality
Cons
- Prone to scalding
Final Verdict
So, if you are planning to go on a camping trip and the idea of taking your home dishes seems too big of a drag, then you should consider buying camping dinnerware.
The best set of camping dinnerware is one that is simple and convenient to use outdoors. In addition, it should be not only affordable but also durable enough to last you a few years. This is why, in our list above, we’ve offered a detailed insight into several best-selling products, so you’re able to get the best bang for your buck! We hope the above guide can help you pick the best dinnerware set for your camping needs.
