The Best Backpacking Utensils: Top Picks & Buying Guides 2024

Hailey Abbott By, Hailey Abbott
Updated
Best backpacking utensils
Best backpacking utensils

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: UCO 4-Piece Camping Mess Kit with Bowl, Plate and 3-in-1 Spork Utensil

Whether you're camping in the wilderness, backpacking and exploring, or just preparing a quick meal on-the-go, UCO's Mess Kit is the perfect solution. This kit includes a plate, bowl, 3-in-1 spork utensil and tether for securing kit and contents. The Mess Kit is microwave and dishwasher safe so you can clean up quickly and easily after using it. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: Orblue 4-in-1 Camping Utensils - Portable Stainless Steel Spoon

If you’re looking for a camping utensil that's multifunctional, durable, and multipurpose, then the Orblue 4-in-1 Camping Utensils - Portable Stainless Steel Spoon should be your go-to. With a stainless steel construction, this utensil features a fork, spoon, knife and bottle opener. Whether you're working around the campfire or on the trail, this utensil will serve as your all-in-one cooking tool Read Review

3. Best Realiable: UCO 6-Piece Camping Mess Kit and Switch Spork Utensil Set

The UCO 6-Piece Camping Mess Kit and Switch Spork Utensil Set offers a set of functionality and convenience. Use the sturdy plate and bowl to enjoy a meal without fear of slipping, while the utensil set lets you switch between cutlery. The durable knife and fork are made from glass reinforced nylon, offering a lightweight, yet strong utensil that won't rust or break. Read Review

4. Best For Camping: OUTXE Titanium Camping Utensil, Ultra Lightweight Long Handle Spoon

The best camping utensils are always lightweight and easy to clean. Our Titanium fork and spoon set is perfect for your next backpacking or camping trip thanks to its ultra-lightweight design, which makes these utensils easy to carry with you. The long handles help make it easier for you to reach the bottom of a freezer-dried bag. Read Review

If you’re the type who likes to live off the land and bring only the bare necessities on your backpacking adventures, then you’ll probably want to invest in some basic backpacking utensils. They won’t make your trip any more accessible, but they’ll make it much more enjoyable. Plus, if you want to streamline your trip and prevent excess weight from weighing you down, leaving unnecessary baggage at home is another option that can help.

That being said, not all backpacking utensils are created equal. Some of them will inevitably break after a single use. Others might seem like they would be incredibly useful while on the trail, but they’re superfluous once you get home. So which ones are worth bringing with you? Here's our list of best backpacking utensils to get you started!

We think the highly recommended product for best backpacking utensils is UCO 4-Piece Camping Mess Kit with Bowl, Plate and 3-in-1 Spork Utensil with 3-in-1 spork utensils and tether. You may explore the following if you need more alternatives and more in-depth guidance.

Our Top Picks

  • Mess kit for camping, backpacking, scouting, and meals on-the-go; includes plate, bowl, 3-in-1 spork utensil, and tether for securing kit and contents
  • Bowl and plate have rubberized grips on the bottom to prevent slippage on tabletop while eating
  • For meal storage and transport, the bowl and plate connect with an airtight seal; included tether secures spork and keeps kit contents contained
  • 3-in-1 spork features a spoon on one end and a fork with serrated knife edge on the other; made from durable reinforced glass nylon
  • Microwave and Dishwasher Safe
TOP Choice #2 Orblue 4-in-1 Camping Utensils - Portable Stainless Steel Spoon
Our Score:
9.7
Orblue
  • REUSABLE UTENSILS FUNCTION WELL. The reusable fork is 4-tine fork and backpacking spoon is sizable making it convenient for stiring when cooking and eating as well.
  • PERFECT CAMPING SiILVERWARE OR HIKING FLATWARE - Handy camp utensils expands to full-size, making it easy to eat without a mess. And folds down like a pocket knife that will fit in your go to bag - Full size: 7.5 x 1.6 in.; Folded: 4.3 x 1.6 in.
  • 4-In-1 CAMPING CUTLERY. Set includes camping spoon , fork, knife and bottle opener. Travel utensil stays together when not in use. And the removable camping fork can be held in one hand, with spoon knife in the other. Convenient lunchbox utensils that you can bring to work or school.
  • KITCHEN QUALITY - Hiking utensils are made of non-stick stainless steel with polished coating, will not rust.No plastic parts. Its easy to clean and dishwasher safe.
  • CAMPING COMBO COMES IN 2-PACK - You get two sets because an extra camping utensil is always a good idea. Also a great gift for people who love to go camping and useful for people who are always on the go. NOTE: Product color may slightly vary due to photographic lighting sources or your monitor settings.
  • Bowl and plate have rubberized grips on the bottom to prevent slippage on tabletop while eating
  • For meal storage and transport, the bowl and plate connect with an airtight seal; collapsible camp cup stows inside kit; included tether secures spork and keeps kit contents contained
  • Mess kit for camping, backpacking, scouting, and meals on-the-go; includes plate, bowl, camp cup, two-piece Switch Spork utensil set, and tether for securing kit and contents
  • Mess kit measures 8 x 8 x 3 inches, weighs 0. 6 pounds; BPA- and phthalate-free; manufacturer’s limited lifetime
  • Two-piece Switch Spork set features a dedicated fork, knife, and spoon; , or connects together to form an extra long utensil; made from durable reinforced glass nylon
  • Dishwasher and microwave-safe
  • Designed for On-the-Go: 50% lighter than the stainless steel one, more durable than the plastic one, perfect for backpacking, camping, hiking, outdoor, travel, and home.
  • Extended Long Handle: 22cm/8.7inch length, long enough to easily reach the bottom of the freezer-dried bag, won't get your fingers all messy
  • What You Get: 1* Titanium Long Handle Spork and 1 * Titanium Long Handle Spoon, and 1 * Quick-drying Bag
  • Eco-friendly& Allergy-free: Made of 99.9% pure titanium, 100% food-grade. Easy to clean, dishwasher safe
  • Ultra-lightweight: Only 19g/ 0.67oz each,no burden.OUTXE fork and spoon set is portable and easy to carry for your long backpacking and camping trips
  • Upgraded Design: Smoother edge grinding, safe for your mouth. Equipped with a deep bowl, enough capacity to hold more food
  • Designed for On-the-Go: 50% lighter than the stainless steel one, more durable than the plastic one, perfect for backpacking, camping, hiking, outdoor, travel, and home.
  • Ultra-lightweight: A fork and spoon combo all-in-one piece, no need to worry about being weighed down by lugging an entire set of silverware on the go, only 20g/0.7oz each
  • Eco-friendly& Allergy-free: Made of 99.9% pure titanium, 100% food-grade. Easy to clean, dishwasher safe
  • What You Get: 2 * Titanium 2 -in -1 Fork and Spoon Combo and 1 * Quick-drying Bag
  • IDEAL FOR BACKPACKING & HIKING TOO ★ Portable flatware that is compact enough to fit in your backpack, also great for use in the Car, SUV, Esky, Camping, Scouts, Lunch Box, Caravan, Holidaying and more.
  • FULL SIZE CAMPING UTENSIL SET ★ The knife fork and spoon each has full size 18/10 stainless steel heads. Ideal for eating noodles, soups, rice, dessert & more.
  • PORTABLE: With a fork and spoon together in one combo piece, you'll save space on outdoor travel, trips or even everyday packed lunches.
  • SUPER STRONG: Metal utensils are built to last and this is no exception. Sturdier than plastic or wood, this clever combination cutlery is sure to last you for many years to come.
  • EXTRA-LONG HANDLE: Get to the bottom of freeze-dried meals, dehydrated food bags, meal pouches, vacuum insulated bottles and deep jars. The long handled titanium spork by Navaris means your hands and fingers stay clean when mealtime rolls around.
  • PRODUCT DETAILS: Each spork measures 8.4" long x 1.5" wide (21.5cm x 3.9cm) and weighs 0.7 ounces (20 grams). Made of high-quality titanium metal. Delivery includes 2 sporks and 1 storage pouch.
  • ULTRALIGHT: Made of super light titanium metal, which means you won't be weighed down by cumbersome silverware while hiking or backpacking outdoors. The Navaris titanium spork weighs just 0.7 oz (20 grams).
  • THE IDEAL MULTIFUNCTIONAL TACTICAL SPORK: perfect for any sort of outdoor activities like hiking, camping, hunting and fishing. There's no better addition to your camp mess kit or backpack supplies. Our cleverly designed long handle spork hides a serrated stainless steel tactical knife and a fire starter Ferro Rod, making it the perfect all in one tactical utensil for outdoor lovers.
  • CONVENIENT CARRYING CASE: With a total length of 9 inches, this cool survival tactical gear comes with a practical Paracord and case for easy transportation and storage.
  • 3 IN 1 CLEVER & PORTABLE SPORK FLATWARE: fully ensemble it works as a deep reach long handle spork for your MRE (spoon fork comb), separate them and you get a fully functional spork and knife set. The tactical spork also contains a 2-3/8 in long replaceable ferro rod to get your fire started.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT & DISHWASHER SAFE CAMPING EATING UTENSILS: Materials used are food and detergent/dish washer safe. With a weight of 2 oz makes it the perfect compact and functional utensil for your backpacking gear or camping mess kit
  • HIGH QUALITY CONSTRUCTION: built with sturdy BPA Free plastic material and stainless steel knife blade, our spork is durable and long lasting making it perfect for outdoor activities or dinning on the go.
  • COMPACT: Small enough to fit in any pocket, pouch or backpack which makes for easy packing, storage and transport
  • DIMENSIONS: 6.25” H x 1.5” W x 0.75” D and weighs 2.2 oz
  • DURABLE: Constructed of an approved stainless steel materials that are built to last a lifetime
  • BE PREPARED: Locking mini carabiner keeps utensils together during storage and can be clipped on a variety of gear
  • INCLUDES: Fork, Knife, Spoon and mini locking carabiner
  • ✔ PORTABLE & REUSABLE: Our travel utensils and matte black case sold more than 15,000 cutlery sets through crowdfunding (Kickstarter, Indiegogo). Our goal was to develop a sustainable and highly functional alternative to single-use plastic utensil sets. Our knives, forks, and spoons make eating meals fun, easy, and responsible. Eat breakfast, lunch, dinner, or snacks at the table or on the go. NOTE: UTENSILS ARE HAND WASH ONLY.
  • ✔ CONNECT MAGNETICALLY: Embedded magnets allow MAGWARE silverware sets to connect tightly together for secure packing and organized storage. This allows you to join as many camping cutlery kits together as you wish. Take as many sets as needed for the family in one tidy bundle. No more hunting through drawers for that one knife, fork, or spoon that went missing from your three-piece kit.

What to Look For in a best backpacking utensils?

Actually, when you decide to invest in best backpacking utensils for yourself, lots of things to consider! It's harder to choose since the product comes with many types, functions, and features from different manufacturers. That’s why you should find a reliable space to acquire knowledge related to the item. 

We’ve highlighted the essential features of the best backpacking utensils below. Along with checking out the list of best models in the list, you should also carefully read the buying guide here:

Utility

Are you looking for lightweight, portable camping utensils or something more robust to go with your kids on car camping trips? Are you more inclined to freeze-dried simple meals with only one spoon or do you prefer full-sit meals using a knife and fork? The best set will be the one that suits your specific needs.

Materials

Most camping tools are made of metal, such as stainless steel or titanium. Every one has its advantages and disadvantages. Both aluminum and stainless-steel utensils are affordable choices. However, aluminum is less durable than stainless steel, which can make them heavy. While titanium utensils can be lightweight and long-lasting, they are typically more costly than the other options. Although plastic utensils are typicallyer than those made from metals, they will also break faster. They may also have bisphenol A (or BPA), which is a chemical that can be found in some plastics and resins.

Weight

Weight is not a concern if you are backpacking. For lightweight backpacking material, titanium, aluminum and plastic work well. Although stainless steel is durable and strong, it feels heavy.

Sharpness

You should ensure that your knives are either sharpened easily or are very sharp. Many knives can become dull after only a few uses. Many knives are sharp enough to be used for camping. They are easy to locate. Instead of buying a set, you can buy your own knife.

BPA Concerns

BPA-containing materials are often used in food and beverage. It has been shown that BPA can seep into food or beverages. BPA can cause brain damage and other problems in infants and children. It may be linked to increased blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. BPAs have been banned from food and beverage products. BPS (bisphenol-S) and BPF, (bisphenol F), are two compounds which are often used in place of BPA. Although studies on their long-term health effects are ongoing, it is possible that these compounds could pose as great or greater risks than BPA.

Durability

Utensils can be stuffed in haphazardly into bags or boxes, along with the rest of your camping food. They need to last. For camping utensils, stainless steel and titanium are more resilient than the other options.

FAQs

What Are Camping Utensils?

Forks, knives and spoons are some of the camping utensils that you can take along on your camping trip. Camping is often done away from your home, and sometimes far from civilization. It is essential to have the right camping utensils in order to make camping less stressful and more fun. Good food is essential for hiking, biking, climbing, paddling, cycling, exploring, or any other activity that you may be undertaking during your camping trip.

Can You Use Regular Cookware On A Camp Stove?

This is generally safe. Keep in mind, however that your home-made pot is not meant to be used over open flames or exposed to wind. This could lead you into trouble depending on how the pot and pan are made. Once, the winds blew my flame so it started to melt my plastic pot handles. You should only use camp stove-compatible items. We understand that there may be budgetary and logistical constraints, so it might not make sense to buy a new set of cookware.

Can I Wash My Utensils In A Dishwasher?

Some camping utensils can be washed in dishwashers. Others are not compatible. Make sure to read the instructions on washing the product.

Is Aluminum Or Stainless Steel Better For Camping?

Aluminum and stainless steel utensils both have their place in camping. Although stainless steel is stronger and more resistant to scratches, it is also heavier and heats unevenly so hot spots can occur. This is not a concern when using cutlery but in cooking pots and saucepans. Aluminum's lightweight makes it easy to carry around and is great for backpacking. Aluminum conducts heat better, but scratches and dents much more easily than aluminum.

Why Is Titanium Used In Camping Utensils?

Because titanium is both light and strong, it combines the best qualities of stainless steel and aluminum. Titanium is more costly than stainless steel or aluminum, however. This might make it difficult to choose a pot for cooking, but the difference in price between aluminum or stainless steel utensils versus titanium utensils are less important (as well as the weight savings).

How Can I Clean Utensils While Camping?

You can wash dishes while camping by hand in your camp sink, or the designated campground camp sink. These sinks are usually located near the toilets. If you're backpacking you have the option to take your water from 200 feet away and wash your dishes with biodegradable soap. You can also do as the rest and rub the soap off using your bandana before putting it in your backpack for the next day.

After knowing the suitable kinds of best backpacking utensils and the features you wish, it’s high time for you to start your shopping. Note that you shouldn’t run out to a particular store or start scrolling through online sales just yet. With the development of technology, especially the expansion of sale sites, you can easily find your buddy. 

Remember to check out our site weekly round-up to ensure that the current sales on best backpacking utensils perform well in our tests. So you can catch up with them as soon as possible. Would you please give us your feedback for better service? Many thanks!


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About Hailey Abbott

Hailey Abbott
Hailey Abbott is an outdoor enthusiast and freelance writer for CampfireHQ. She has a passion for hunting and fishing, which she often enjoys with her family and friends. Hailey also enjoys staying active through sports such as golf, basketball, and softball. Hailey has worked as an editor for several years, providing content that is both accurate and engaging. She has also had the opportunity to interview numerous experts in various fields. This wealth of experience gives her a unique perspective when writing about the outdoors and other topics.

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