Cooking and Dining Essentials

Ahh, how I love the smells that emanate around the campground at supper time. There's something about outdoor cooking that makes food taste better. No special preparations are required, but a few essential camping items will make the task easier.

Cooking and Dining (essentials)

• water - I like to take bottled water for cooking and drinking. But water will also be required for cleanup.
• food - this is simple, just take what you like to eat.
• cooler - for food and drink. As you replenish ice, drain some of the water, but not all of it. The water in the cooler will be as cold as the ice and helps to refrigerate your food.
• camp stove - sure, there's a grill at the campground, but it's not practical for preparing all your meals on.

The two-burner, propane variety campstove with a wind screen is preferred.

• mess kit - this is your basic pots and pans, and whatever utensils are adequate for your cooking style. Also, include for each camper a plate, bowl, cup, knife, fork, and spoon.
• can opener - of course you won't need this, if you don't bring canned food items, but it's good to have, just in case.
• charcoal - it just wouldn't be camping without grilling out.

These are the basics, but you may want to bring some other cooking gear or outdoor furniture for your dining pleasure.

Next page > cooking extras

Suggested Reading

After Camping Checklist First Aid Checklist