10 Best Camping Plates And Bowls, Top Rated

Our pick: Stansport 24-Piece Enamel Camping Tableware Set

I’ve tested this 24-piece blue enamel steel tableware set on a weekend camping trip and a few backyard meals, and it really delivers for anyone who wants sturdy, reliable dishes with a timeless camping vibe. The double-coated enamel finish looks sharp with its rich blue color and shiny stainless steel edges, while the steel core keeps everything lightweight yet tough enough for rough handling.

Pros

Durable double-coated enamel finish

Lightweight and easy to pack

Full place settings for four, including flatware

Classic design perfect for camping or RVs

Cons

Enamel can chip if dropped on hard surfaces
If you’re gearing up for family camping, RV trips, or just want a nostalgic, durable set for the cabin or patio, this blue enamel tableware is a solid choice. It’s practical, easy to clean, and brings that classic outdoors feel to every meal—perfect for adventures or simple backyard dinners alike.

Also great: Wheat Straw Dinnerware Sets For 4

I’ve been using this wheat straw dinnerware set for quick everyday meals and as a backup set for camping, and it’s become a reliable, eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic dishes. The plates and bowls are lightweight yet sturdy, and they handle the microwave, dishwasher, and freezer without any issues. The smooth, colorful finish adds a cheerful touch and they really don’t stain, even with pasta sauce or curry.

Pros

BPA-free, non-toxic wheat straw material

Microwave, freezer, and dishwasher safe

Lightweight and unbreakable

Stackable and easy to store

Cons

Not as heat-retaining as ceramic or stoneware
This wheat straw dinnerware set is a smart, sustainable option for students, RV owners, campers, or families with kids and seniors. It’s durable, easy to clean, and travel-friendly—perfect for daily use or on-the-go meals. A great budget-friendly choice if you want to ditch traditional plastics without sacrificing convenience.

Also great: UCO 6-Piece Camping Mess Kit with Bowl

I tested this mess kit on a weekend camping trip and during a day hike lunch stop, and it’s a really smart, space-saving solution for anyone who wants a complete, packable dining setup. The plate and bowl connect with an airtight seal, so it’s easy to store leftovers or pack up meals in advance. The collapsible cup fits neatly inside, and the two-piece Switch Spork is a thoughtful touch—it clicks together for a longer reach when you need it.

Pros

Complete kit with plate, bowl, cup, and versatile spork

Airtight seal for leak-free transport

Non-slip grips keep it stable while eating

BPA- and phthalate-free, microwave and dishwasher safe

Cons

Not ideal for larger portions or family-size meals
If you’re backpacking, camping, or just want a reusable, all-in-one kit for work lunches or travel, this mess kit does exactly what it promises. It’s lightweight, easy to clean, and packs down nicely. The thoughtful design details—like the tether and non-slip grips—make it feel well-made and convenient for outdoor adventures or daily on-the-go meals.

Source: Amazon

When you’re camping, you want dinnerware that’s lightweight, durable, and easy to pack. Melamine is one of the most popular materials for camping plates and bowls — it’s sturdy, reusable, and shatter-resistant. Just remember that melamine shouldn’t go in the microwave.

Enamelware is another camping classic — it’s lightweight metal coated with enamel, so it’s tough enough to handle drops and bumps. Some campers also use stainless steel, which is nearly indestructible and very easy to clean. For ultralight trips, many hikers choose reusable plastic or bamboo fiber sets because they’re lightweight and eco-friendly.

Why Are Bowls Better Than Plates?

Bowls can be more practical than plates in certain situations, especially for casual meals or camping. They hold liquid foods like soups, stews, or chili, but they’re also handy for meals like pasta, salads, rice, or one-pot dishes that might slide off a flat plate.

Bowls are also easier to eat from when sitting on a couch, camping chair, or picnic blanket — you can hold them in one hand and eat with the other without spilling. So while plates are great for solid foods that stay put, bowls are often more versatile when you’re on the go or eating something saucy.

What Are the Rules for Dinnerware?

There aren’t hard “rules,” but here are a few simple guidelines when choosing and using dinnerware:

• Pick safe materials — look for lead-free, food-safe certifications.

• Choose pieces that fit your lifestyle — microwave- and dishwasher-safe dinnerware is a must for busy households.

• Match to your needs — have enough place settings for your household plus a few extra for guests.

• Use the right size — dinner plates for main courses, smaller plates for salads or appetizers, bowls for soups or pasta, and serving platters for larger dishes.

• Handle with care — avoid sudden temperature changes (like putting hot plates in cold water), stack them gently, and don’t use chipped or cracked plates.

What’s the Best Way to Pack Plates?

Whether you’re moving, storing, or packing plates for camping, keeping them safe is key. Wrap each plate individually with bubble wrap, packing paper, or even dish towels to cushion them. Stack plates vertically in a sturdy box — like you would store records — rather than flat. This reduces pressure and helps prevent cracks or chips during bumps and drops.

If you’re camping, use reusable plate carriers or wrap plates in dish cloths and pack them tightly so they don’t shift around in your bag or bin.

The best camping plates and bowls should be tough enough to handle rough conditions but light enough to pack without weighing you down. Good camping dishware is easy to clean, stacks well, and won’t crack or chip after a few bumps on the trail. Whether you go for classic enamelware, sturdy stainless steel, or modern BPA-free plastic, pick a set that suits your style of adventure. With the right plates and bowls, you’ll spend less time worrying about cleanup and more time enjoying good food under the open sky.