WHAT COOKING UTENSILS SHOULD I TAKE?

Many campers keep boxes of utensils in the shed specifically for camping. Although I do have a set of melamine crockery just for this purpose, I find it easier to simply decide what I’m cooking then take the necessary utensils from my drawers.

As well as the items listed below, you’ll also need cutlery, crockery, cups and glasses for everyone. When my kids were small, I used those plates that have separate compartments. I found these easier as they tend to have a lip around the edge, so if you’re eating sitting in a chair rather than at the table, less food falls off.

BOWLS One large metal or plastic bowl for mixing and serving salads, a medium-sized bowl and a couple of small bowls for making marinades and dressings. I also take a large plastic bowl or tub for washing up – look for eco-friendly washing up liquid in camping stores and keep it with your camping equipment.

CHOPPING BOARDS Take one or two plastic chopping boards.

KNIVES Take one small and one medium sharp knife and a bread knife if you’re not taking sliced bread.

LIGHTER A gas stove lighter is more reliable and safer than matches, although waterproof matches are handy to have around.

PANS Bring a frying pan, a medium saucepan and a small saucepan.

PEELER As water can often be scarce, peeling is easier than washing many vegetables and fruits.

SIEVE I found a collapsible sieve at a camping store. It packs flat, so now it comes on every trip.

SKEWERS Wooden or metal, but remember to soak wooden skewers beforehand to prevent them burning during cooking.

SPADE Not strictly cooking equipment, but necessary if cooking using coals as you’ll need to move the coals around.

SPOONS Take a couple of large spoons, metal or plastic for serving and stirring.

TEA TOWELS For washing up and handling hot pans, or you might prefer an ovenproof mit for cooking around the fire.

TIN OPENER And don’t forget the bottle opener too!

TONGS Handy not only for the barbecue but also for tossing salads.

TORCH Although not strictly cooking equipment, keep your head torch at hand while cooking at night.