There’s something magical about cooking over an open flame under the stars. Whether you’re grilling fresh-caught barramundi on a remote beach or slow-cooking a hearty stew at a national park campground, the right gear transforms campfire cooking from a survival exercise into one of the best parts of your Big Lap adventure.
The gear you choose depends on how you like to camp, what you love to eat, and how much storage space you’ve got. Solo travellers in compact caravans need different solutions than families with massive rigs, and weekend warriors have different requirements than full-timers on a two-year lap.
This guide covers everything from basic essentials that every Big Lapper should own to specialised gear for serious outdoor chefs. You’ll discover cast iron classics that’ll last decades, lightweight options perfect for hiking, and innovative tools that make campfire cooking easier than ever.
Cookware Essentials
The foundation of any campfire cooking setup starts with quality cookware that can handle direct flame and high heat. Cast iron remains the gold standard for campfire cooking, but modern alternatives offer compelling benefits for weight-conscious travellers.
Cast iron delivers unmatched heat retention and develops a natural non-stick surface over time. The Lodge Cast Iron Skillet ~$45 in 12-inch size handles everything from bacon and eggs to seared steaks. For families, a matching Lodge Dutch Oven ~$89 opens up roasting, baking, and slow-cooking possibilities.
~$299
For travellers prioritising weight savings, hard-anodised aluminium offers excellent heat conduction with a fraction of the weight. Stainless steel provides durability and easy maintenance, though it requires more attention to prevent hot spots and burning.
Season cast iron cookware before your first trip using the oven method at home. It’s much easier than trying to season properly over a campfire.
Grilling Equipment
Grilling over coals delivers flavours you simply can’t achieve with gas. The key is having the right grates, tools, and heat management equipment to control your cooking environment.
~$195
Portable camp grills give you more control than balancing grates on rocks. The Rome Pie Iron Grill ~$159 folds flat for storage and provides a stable cooking surface for everything from snags to whole fish.
Essential grilling tools include a long-handled spatula, tongs, and a wire brush for grate cleaning. The Weber 3-Piece Tool Set ~$69 provides restaurant-quality tools with extended handles for safe cooking over hot coals.
Fire Tools & Accessories
Managing your fire properly makes the difference between perfectly cooked meals and charcoal disasters. The right tools help you build, maintain, and control your cooking fire with confidence.
~$125
A quality set of fire tools keeps you safe while managing coals and logs. Look for tools with long handles and comfortable grips. The Esschert Design Fire Tool Set ~$89 includes poker, shovel, and tongs with a stand for organisation.
Bellows help you build fires faster and revive dying coals without getting smoke in your eyes. Traditional leather bellows work well, but battery-powered options like the BBQ Dragon Fire Supercharger ~$149 make fire management effortless.
Keep a spray bottle filled with water nearby for flare-up control, but never spray water directly on grease fires. Use a lid or sand instead.
~$45
Specialty Cooking Gear
Once you’ve mastered basic campfire cooking, specialty gear opens up new culinary possibilities. These tools aren’t essential, but they add variety and fun to your outdoor cooking adventures.
~$35
Reflector ovens use radiant heat to bake bread, biscuits, and roasts without needing a Dutch oven. The Coleman Folding Reflector Oven ~$79 folds flat for storage and includes a thermometer for temperature monitoring.
For serious bread bakers, a camp oven with legs and a flanged lid allows for top and bottom heat cooking. Load coals on top of the Lodge 12-inch Deep Camp Dutch Oven ~$129 to create an outdoor oven capable of baking anything from damper to pizza.
Never use indoor-only cookware over an open flame. Regular non-stick pans can release toxic fumes at high temperatures. Stick to cookware specifically designed for campfire use.
Food Prep & Storage Tools
Proper food preparation and storage become critical when you’re cooking outdoors. The right tools keep ingredients fresh, prep work organised, and cleanup manageable.
~$45
A good camp kitchen setup requires designated prep space. Folding camp tables provide clean surfaces for food preparation, while collapsible sinks make washing vegetables and cleaning dishes possible anywhere.
Food storage containers keep ingredients organised and protected from ants, flies, and larger wildlife. The Sistema Klip It Container Set ~$39 provides airtight seals and stackable storage for dry goods.
Thermal cooler bags extend the life of perishables between ice runs. For longer trips, consider a Yeti Hopper Flip 18 ~$449 for superior ice retention and portability.
Safety & Cleaning Gear
Safe campfire cooking requires proper safety equipment and efficient cleanup tools. These aren’t glamorous purchases, but they’re essential for responsible outdoor cooking.
~$75
First aid supplies specifically for burns should be part of every camp kitchen. Burn gel, sterile gauze, and medical tape handle minor accidents. Keep these easily accessible, not buried in your general first aid kit.
Clean cast iron while it’s still warm using coarse salt and a paper towel. This method removes food residue without soap, preserving the seasoning.
Biodegradable camp soap minimises environmental impact while effectively cutting grease and grime. The Sea to Summit Trek & Travel Pocket Soap ~$12 works for dishes, hands, and general cleaning.
~$15
Quick-dry camp towels and microfibre cloths speed up dish drying in humid conditions. Pack extra towels since they’ll get heavy use around the campfire kitchen.
- Start with quality basics: cast iron cookware and a reliable grill setup form the foundation of great campfire cooking
- Invest in proper fire management tools for safety and cooking control, including long-handled tools and heat-resistant gloves
- Specialty gear like pie irons and reflector ovens add variety but aren’t essential for beginners
- Don’t overlook food prep and cleaning supplies: they’re crucial for safe, organised camp cooking
- Always pack safety equipment including a fire extinguisher and burn treatment supplies
- Choose gear based on your camping style: lightweight options for frequent movers, heavy-duty cast iron for long-stay campers
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