Cooking On the Go: Portable Cooking Solutions

If you’re anything like me, you know that being prepared for any situation is important. One aspect of preparedness that often gets overlooked is portable cooking. Whether you’re an avid camper, a disaster-prep pro, or just looking for ways to cook on the go, this article is here to help.

Understanding the Need for Portable Cooking

Picture this: You’re out in the wilderness on a camping trip, and it starts pouring rain, soaking all of your wood. Or maybe you’re stuck in a power outage during a winter storm, and your oven is just a fancy metal box. This is where portable cooking becomes your stomach’s best friend.

In my early days of camping I learned the hard way that a box of granola bars can only take you so far. Having a portable cooking solution not only means you can enjoy a hot meal even in adverse conditions, but it’s also a morale booster. There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm meal when everything else seems uncertain.

Types of Portable Heating Solutions

Now, let’s dive in: What are the options for portable heating solutions, you ask?

Camp Stoves and Burners: These are the go-to for many campers. They come in all shapes and sizes, and the fuel options are varied. I remember one particularly camping trip when my trusty propane stove saved the day (due to a fire ban in this case). A cup of hot cocoa never tasted so good!

Solar Ovens and Cookers: These are perfect for the eco-conscious and those seeking a longer-term solution. You might think that solar cooking is too sci-fi, but it’s surprisingly efficient. I can’t say I’ve tried this way yet but I read that someone baked a batch of cookies using nothing but sunshine. It must have felt like a little taste of the future.

Portable Electric Cookers: For those who want the convenience of electric cooking, there are battery-powered or plug-in options. During a power outage or no-power locations, electric can be a little tricky – unless of course you have a generator or battery operated options.

Selecting the Right Portable Cooking Solution

• Choosing the right heating solution is a bit like picking the perfect outfit for the day. It should fit your needs, style, and budget. Are you a weekend warrior or a hardcore prepper? Consider your situation and what works best for you.
• I started with a simple camp stove and worked my way up as I gained more experience and needed a bit more firepower (pun intended). Remember, your cooking solution is an investment in your comfort and well-being during emergencies and adventures alike.

Let me tell you about a few of the products that Briden Solutions can offer you in regard to Camp Stoves & Burners. If you click the below links, you can read a great description of each, and how they work:

1. Basic: Metal Folding Stove
2. Camp Heat for folding stove
3. Kelly Kettle Hobo Stove 
4. Kelly Kettle Base Camp
5. Jetboil Minimo Stove 
6. Jetboil – fuel – varying sizes
7. www.bridensolutions.ca/tools-and-gear/heat-and-fire Also feel free to click on this link in order to see our entire collection of heating products.

Essential Cooking Accessories

Cooking on the go isn’t just about the stove itself; it’s also about having the right tools for the job. It’s the little things that count:

• Utensils, stir spoons, a cup, plate, a pot,  a pan, etc.
• Lighter and water-proof matches, firestarters, paper or kindling.
• Cook-top of choice

Take some time to decide what you require at your side when it comes to your cooking plan. I have fond memories of my mom’s multiple bins of kitchen gear, organized just so for our family camping trips. She wanted to have everything to make her family cooking efficient and easy for her!

Cooking Tip: Planning is your best friend here. Prepping meals in advance and storing them in vacuum-sealed bags or check out these pre-made meals: Peak, Mountain House, Nutristore or  Backpackers Pantry  It not only saves time but also precious fuel or energy.

Maintenance and Care of Portable Cooking Equipment

Let us discuss looking after your gear. By following these instructions, you can ensure that your equipment remains in excellent condition, ready to serve you when you need it most.

1. Inspection and Cleaning:

• Make it a habit to inspect your cooking equipment before and after each use.
• After each use, clean your cooking gear meticulously. Use warm, soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge or cloth to remove all traces of food, grease, and residue.
• Allow your gear to air dry completely before storing it. This helps prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
• For metal equipment, apply a thin coat of food-grade oil to prevent rust formation. Ensure it’s completely dry before storing.

2. Proper Storage:

• Always store your gear when it’s clean and dry. Moisture can lead to rust and corrosion, which can compromise the equipment’s functionality.
• Store each piece of your cooking equipment separately, or use dividers to prevent them from scratching or damaging each other.
• Avoid storing your gear in extreme temperatures, whether it’s excessively hot or freezing cold. Temperature fluctuations can affect some materials.

3. Equipment-Specific Tips:

• For camping stoves, clean the burner and fuel lines as instructed in manual to ensure efficient and safe operation. Check for clogs, tight connections, and leaks.
• Non-stick cookware requires special attention. Avoid using metal utensils that can scratch the coating, and always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning and maintenance.
• Keep your utensils and cutlery in good condition by washing them promptly after use and avoiding exposure to moisture.

4. Periodic Maintenance:

• Over time, parts of your cooking equipment may wear out or become damaged. Keep an eye on items like gaskets, seals, and O-rings, and replace them as needed to maintain safety and functionality.
• Some equipment, like camping stoves with moving parts, may benefit from occasional lubrication. Consult the user manual for guidance.

By following these detailed instructions you can extend its lifespan and ensure that it remains dependable during your camping trips or in emergency situations. Remember that proper maintenance not only preserves your gear but also contributes to your overall safety and enjoyment in the great outdoors.

So, there you have it—your crash course in portable cooking solutions. Whether you’re a camping enthusiast, a prepper, or just someone who likes to be prepared for whatever life throws your way, having the right heating gear can be a game-changer. Remember, it’s not just about surviving; it’s about thriving, one hot meal at a time. Stay safe, stay prepared, and stay well-fed on your adventures and in emergencies. Happy cooking!