Best Skillet for Backpacking: Top Picks for Lightweight and Durable Options

In backpacking, every ounce matters. You definitely don’t want to be stuck carrying a heavy, cumbersome skillet. That’s why it’s essential to discover the ideal skillet for backpacking. The perfect backpacking skillet needs to be light, long-lasting, and flexible enough to manage different cooking activities.

There are a few critical things to consider when choosing a backpacking skillet. Here are some of the factors we looked at when researching and testing skillets:

Weight: Every ounce counts when you’re backpacking, so a lightweight skillet is a must. Look for skillets made from lightweight materials like aluminum or titanium.
Size: You don’t want a skillet that’s too big or too small. A skillet that’s too small won’t be able to handle all of your cooking needs, while a skillet that’s too big will be too cumbersome to carry. Look for a skillet that’s around 8-10 inches in diameter.
Durability: Your backpacking skillet should be able to withstand the rigors of the trail. Look for skillets made from durable materials that can handle high heat and won’t warp or scratch easily.

After researching and testing several backpacking skillets, we’ve found that the best skillet for backpacking is the GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Frypan. This skillet is made from hard-anodized aluminum, making it both lightweight and durable. It’s also the perfect size for backpacking, with an 8-inch diameter.

One of the standout features of the GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Frypan is its non-stick surface. This makes cooking and cleaning up a breeze, even when you’re on the trail. The skillet also features a folding handle, which makes it easy to pack and store.

Overall, the GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Frypan is the perfect backpacking skillet. It’s lightweight, durable, and versatile enough to handle all of your cooking needs on the trail.

Table of Contents

Best Skillets for Backpacking

Looking for the perfect skillet for your next backpacking trip? We’ve got you covered. After extensive research and testing, we’ve compiled a list of the best skillets for backpacking. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or a first-timer, these skillets will make your cooking experience in the great outdoors a breeze. Check out our top picks below:

GSI Outdoors Ultralight Non-Stick Frypan
Snow Peak Trek 700 Titanium
MSR Ceramic Solo Pot
Sea to Summit X-Pan
Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet

These skillets are lightweight, durable, and easy to clean, making them the perfect addition to your backpacking gear. So, pack your bags and get ready to cook up a delicious meal under the stars with one of these top-rated skillets.

MSR Quick Skillet Hard-Anodized Aluminum Camping Cookware

If you are looking for an ultralight skillet for your backpacking trips, the MSR Quick Skillet is an excellent choice. Weighing only 5.6 oz, this nonstick, hard-anodized aluminum skillet is perfect for cooking up a quick meal on the trail.

Pros

The ultralight design makes it easy to pack and carry.
The nonstick surface makes for easy cooking and cleaning.
The 7-inch cooking surface is perfect for cooking up a meal for one or two people.

Cons

The Talon pot handle, while quick-release, can feel a bit flimsy.
The skillet is not very deep, which can make it difficult to cook certain foods.
The nonstick coating may wear off over time with heavy use.

We were impressed with how easy it was to cook with the MSR Quick Skillet. The nonstick surface worked well, and we were able to cook up eggs and bacon without any issues. The skillet is also very easy to clean, which is a definite plus when you’re out in the backcountry.

One thing to keep in mind is that the Talon pot handle, while quick-release, can feel a bit flimsy. We didn’t have any issues with it breaking, but it did feel a bit unstable at times. Additionally, the skillet is not very deep, which can make it difficult to cook certain foods, such as soups or stews.

Overall, we think the MSR Quick Skillet is a great choice for backpackers who want an ultralight, nonstick skillet for their trips. It’s easy to pack, easy to use, and easy to clean. Just be aware of the limitations of the Talon pot handle and the shallow design when deciding if this skillet is right for you.

Jetboil Summit Skillet Non Stick Camping Cookware

We highly recommend the Jetboil Summit Skillet for backpackers looking for a lightweight and durable skillet that can handle backcountry cooking.

Pros

The ceramic-coated non-stick aluminum construction heats quickly and evenly, expanding the potential of backcountry cooking.
The ceramic nonstick surface releases eggs, pancakes, and other foods easily, making cleanup a breeze.
The perfectly angled turner nests into the handle, helping you flip foods without fuss.

Cons

The skillet is on the expensive side compared to other backpacking skillets.
The skillet is not dishwasher safe and requires hand washing.
The skillet is not oven safe.

The Jetboil Summit Skillet is a great addition to your backpacking gear. Its lightweight and compact design make it easy to pack in your backpack. The ceramic-coated non-stick aluminum construction heats up quickly and evenly, allowing you to cook a variety of meals on the trail. The ceramic nonstick surface releases food easily, making cleanup a breeze. The perfectly angled turner nests into the handle, so you don’t have to worry about losing it.

One thing to keep in mind is that the Jetboil Summit Skillet is more expensive than other backpacking skillets on the market. However, the quality and durability of the skillet make it a worthwhile investment. Additionally, the skillet is not dishwasher safe and requires hand washing. Finally, the skillet is not oven safe, so you’ll need to find other ways to cook your meals if you need to use an oven.

Overall, we highly recommend the Jetboil Summit Skillet for backpackers who want a durable and efficient skillet for their backcountry cooking needs.

Fire-Maple 7.6 Inch Camping Frying Pan w/Nonstick Coating

If you’re looking for a lightweight and durable skillet for backpacking, the Fire-Maple 7.6 Inch Camping Frying Pan w/Nonstick Coating is a great option.

Pros

The nonstick coating is high quality and stick-free, making it perfect for cooking eggs, bacon, and steak.
The thicker bottom design ensures even heating, which reduces the chances of food sticking to the pan.
The durable heatproof handle is easy to handle and stable, making it safe to use.

Cons

This skillet is for stovetop use only, so you can’t use it with an open fire.
It’s not dishwasher safe, so you’ll have to clean it by hand.
The self-locking handle can’t support much weight, so be careful when using it with heavy foods.

We recently took this skillet on a backpacking trip, and we were impressed with its performance. The nonstick coating worked well, and we were able to cook eggs and bacon without any issues. The even heating was a nice touch, and we didn’t have to worry about hot spots or uneven cooking.

The skillet is compact and lightweight, which makes it easy to pack in a backpack or storage box. It’s also easy to clean, which is a big plus when you’re out in the wilderness.

One thing to keep in mind is that this skillet is for stovetop use only. We didn’t have any issues with this, but it’s something to be aware of if you’re planning on using it with an open fire.

Overall, we would definitely recommend the Fire-Maple 7.6 Inch Camping Frying Pan w/Nonstick Coating for anyone looking for a high-quality and durable skillet for backpacking.

Boundless Voyage Titanium Frying Pan with Lid

If you’re looking for a lightweight skillet that can handle all your backpacking needs, the Boundless Voyage Titanium Frying Pan with Lid is the perfect choice.

Pros

Made of premium titanium, making it both lightweight and durable.
Comes with a lid to keep your food clean and reduce heat loss during cooking.
Equipped with foldable handles for easy storage and portability.

Cons

The pan may be smaller than expected.
The handles may not be as comfortable to hold as other models.
The pan may be heavier than other backpacking pans.

We recently took this frying pan on a backpacking trip and were impressed with its performance. The pan is made of high-quality titanium, making it both lightweight and strong. The size of the pan is perfect for backpacking and camping trips, measuring 7.5 inches in diameter and 2 inches in depth. The pan also features foldable handles that are 4.3 inches long, making it easy to store in your backpack.

One of the best features of this frying pan is the lid. The lid is a great addition to the pan, as it helps keep your food clean and reduces heat loss during cooking. We found that the lid made cooking much easier and more efficient.

Cleaning the pan is also a breeze, thanks to the sandblasting technology used to make the edges round and smooth. The pan is easy to clean and doesn’t hide any dirt. The foldable handle on the edge of the pan is also a nice touch, as it makes it easy to move the pan when cooking. The long handle helps prevent scalding and the foldable design saves space in your backpack.

The Boundless Voyage Titanium Frying Pan with Lid comes with a bag to help you store the pan and prevent wear. It’s super lightweight, compact, and portable, making it the perfect choice for camping, hiking, and backpacking trips. Overall, we highly recommend this frying pan for anyone in need of a lightweight and durable skillet for their outdoor adventures.

MSR Nonstick Ceramic Coated Camping Skillet

If you’re looking for a durable and easy-to-clean nonstick skillet for your outdoor adventures, the MSR Ceramic Nonstick Backpacking Skillet with Fusion Coating is a great choice. With its lightweight, hard-anodized aluminum construction and durable Fusion ceramic nonstick coating, this skillet is perfect for preparing gourmet camping meals like stir-fry, pancakes, and bacon.

Pros

The Fusion ceramic nonstick coating is scratch-resistant with metal utensils, safe at high temperatures, and PTFE- and PFOA-free.
The hard-anodized aluminum disperses heat evenly and efficiently for perfect cooking every time.
The included Talon Pot Handle is removable yet secure, locks into place while in use, and can be removed quickly for packing convenience.

Cons

The bottom of the skillet may warp outward during cooking, making it difficult to cook on uneven surfaces.
The handle may not be as sturdy as some users would like.
The skillet is not dishwasher safe and requires hand washing.

We recently took the MSR Ceramic Nonstick Backpacking Skillet with Fusion Coating on a camping trip, and we were impressed with its nonstick performance and easy clean-up. The skillet was lightweight and easy to pack, and the included Talon Pot Handle made it easy to cook and serve our meals. However, we did notice that the bottom of the skillet tended to warp outward during cooking, which made it difficult to cook on uneven surfaces. Additionally, the handle could have been sturdier, but it was still functional for our needs.

Overall, we would recommend the MSR Ceramic Nonstick Backpacking Skillet with Fusion Coating to anyone looking for a durable and easy-to-clean nonstick skillet for their outdoor adventures. Its superior nonstick performance and efficient heat dispersion make it a great choice for preparing kitchen-quality meals on the trail.

IMIKEYA Camping Frying Pan Stainless Steel Grilling Pan with Folding Handle Portable Camp Pan Cooking Equipment for Outdoor Camping Hiking Picnic Cooking Egg Steak Backpacking Skillet

If you’re looking for a reliable skillet for your next backpacking trip, the IMIKEYA Camping Frying Pan is definitely worth considering. We’ve had the chance to use it on a few trips and here’s what we think:

Pros

Crafted with stainless steel material that can withstand high temperature and weight, making it perfect for cooking outdoors.
Folding handle design makes it easy to store in your backpack.
Lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry around.

Cons

It’s a bit small, so you won’t be able to cook large meals on it.
Not dishwasher safe, so you’ll have to clean it by hand.
It’s not suitable for oven use.

The IMIKEYA Camping Frying Pan is a great option for those who want a reliable skillet for their backpacking trips. Its stainless steel construction makes it durable and practical for outdoor camping, hiking, and climbing supplies. The folding handle design is convenient for storage, and it’s not easy to shake, which makes it safe and comfortable to use.

One of the best things about this skillet is its lightweight and portable design. It’s not too heavy to carry around, and it doesn’t take up too much space in your backpack. It’s also not too difficult to clean, and you can easily wipe it down with a cloth.

However, it’s worth noting that this skillet is a bit small, so you won’t be able to cook large meals on it. It’s also not dishwasher safe, so you’ll have to clean it by hand. Finally, it’s not suitable for oven use, so you’ll have to find other ways to cook your meals.

Overall, we think the IMIKEYA Camping Frying Pan is a great option for backpackers who want a reliable and practical skillet for their trips. It’s not perfect, but it gets the job done, and it’s definitely worth considering.

MSR WindBurner 8-Inch Ceramic Nonstick Camping and Backpacking Skillet

If you’re looking for a durable and versatile skillet for backpacking, the MSR WindBurner 8-Inch Ceramic Camping Skillet is an excellent choice.

Pros

The enclosed, heat-capturing ring blocks the wind while allowing the heat to spread evenly for simmering and cooking versatility.
The ultra-durable fusion ceramic nonstick coating handles wear and tear, is safe at high temperatures, and is PTFE- and PFOA-free, for worry-free nonstick performance.
The skillet talon handle folds into the skillet and nests outside the WindBurner 4.5 L Stock Pot for packing efficiency.

Cons

Some users have reported that the center of the pan gets considerably hotter than the rest of the pan, which can make cooking certain foods more difficult.
The skillet does not nest securely on some base units, despite the company’s web page stating otherwise.
The skillet is expensive compared to other backpacking skillets on the market.

In our experience, the MSR WindBurner 8-Inch Ceramic Camping Skillet is an excellent addition to any backpacker’s gear collection. The nonstick coating is durable and can handle wear and tear, making it a great choice for cooking in the great outdoors. The enclosed, heat-capturing ring is a unique feature that allows for even cooking and simmering, even in windy conditions.

The skillet talon handle is a thoughtful design element that makes packing and transporting the skillet a breeze. It’s also compatible exclusively with WindBurner Stove Duo, Group, or Combo Stove Systems, making it a great choice for those who already own a WindBurner stove.

Overall, we highly recommend the MSR WindBurner 8-Inch Ceramic Camping Skillet for backpackers who want a durable, versatile, and easy-to-use skillet for outdoor cooking adventures.

Doorslay Ultralight Titanium Frypan Titanium Pan with Folding Handle Outdoor Camping Hiking Picnic Cooking Frying Pan Skillet Griddle Tableware Cookware

If you’re looking for a lightweight and durable skillet for your backpacking trip, the Doorslay Ultralight Titanium Frypan is a great choice. It is made of pure titanium material, which makes it super light and corrosion-resistant. The foldable handle makes it easy to carry and store, and it is compatible with both wood/leaves and alcohol stoves.

Pros

The pure titanium material makes it super light and corrosion-resistant.
The titanium material imparts no odor or taste on food and water, ensuring safe and reliable cooking.
The foldable handle makes it easy to carry and store.

Cons

The size may be too small for some users.
The wood handle may not be as durable as other materials.
It is not dishwasher safe.

This skillet is perfect for backpackers who want to save space and cost compared to using fuel canisters. It can be used to prepare fresh food, soup, or tea in minutes. The high combustion efficiency ensures that you can cook your food quickly and efficiently.

The Doorslay Ultralight Titanium Frypan is a versatile product that can be used for home use and outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, backpacking, and picnics. It is easy to clean and maintain, and the foldable design makes it easy to store in your backpack. Overall, we highly recommend this skillet for anyone looking for a lightweight and durable option for their backpacking trip.

Buying Guide

When choosing the best skillet for backpacking, there are several factors to consider. We’ve outlined some of the most important features to look for below:

Size and Weight

The size and weight of the skillet are crucial factors to consider when backpacking. You want to choose a skillet that is lightweight and compact enough to fit into your backpack, but also large enough to cook meals for your group. A 10-inch skillet is a good size for backpacking trips.

Material

The material of the skillet is also an important factor to consider. Cast iron skillets are durable and can withstand high heat, but they are heavy and take longer to heat up. Aluminum and titanium skillets are lightweight and heat up quickly, but they are not as durable as cast iron. Stainless steel skillets are a good compromise between durability and weight.

Non-Stick Coating

A non-stick coating can make cooking and cleaning much easier, but it can also add weight to the skillet. Look for a skillet with a high-quality non-stick coating that is durable and scratch-resistant.

Handles

The handles of the skillet should be sturdy and easy to grip. Look for a skillet with a long handle that stays cool to the touch, as well as a smaller handle on the opposite side for easy lifting.

Compatibility

Make sure that the skillet is compatible with your backpacking stove. Some skillets are designed to work with specific types of stoves, so be sure to check the compatibility before making a purchase.

Overall, when choosing the best skillet for backpacking, it’s important to consider the size and weight, material, non-stick coating, handles, and compatibility with your stove. By taking these factors into account, you can find a skillet that will make cooking meals on your backpacking trip a breeze.

Size and weight are important factors to consider when choosing a skillet for backpacking.
Cast iron, aluminum, titanium, and stainless steel are all good materials for backpacking skillets.
Look for a high-quality non-stick coating that is durable and scratch-resistant.
Sturdy and easy-to-grip handles are a must-have.
Make sure the skillet is compatible with your backpacking stove before making a purchase.