9 essentials I always pack to set up the perfect kitchen while camping

Roomy and easy-to-clean, the GSI Selkirk 540 balances affordability with camp-worthy features. The twin 10,000 BTU burners are individually controlled with a valve that allows you to ramp up from a simmer to a boil in seconds. The cooking surface is big enough to hold two 10-inch pots next to each other and the pot support comes off easily for quick on-the-go cleaning.

My favorite amenity of the Selkirk 540 is the built-in push-button ignition that lights your stove without the need for matches or a lighter. Unlike other stoves with this feature, the ignition works every time and hasn't stopped working even after several trips.

What else I considered: Eureka Ignite 2 and Coleman Triton+ Propane 2-Burner Stove

Perfect for both car camping or backpacking, this versatile pot set is one of my favorites thanks to the quality materials and overall durability. The set comes in two sizes, 1.3-liters or 2.3-liters, and is made from lightweight hard-anodized aluminum. I prefer the 2.3-liter size because it only weighs a little over two pounds and feeds up to five people.

The set comes with a lightly padded stuff sack that keeps everything organized and protected while traveling. The pots are also coated with a durable ceramic non-stick coating which makes for easy campsite clean-ups. Plus, the included lid doubles as a strainer when making pasta or other water-based meals.

What else I considered: GSI Bugaboo Base Camp Cookset and MSR Ceramic 2 Pot Set

A solid insulated cooler is fundamental to a well-oiled camp kitchen and it's no secret that Yeti makes some of the best around. I prefer the soft-sided coolers as they're easier to carry around and usually weigh less than their hard-sided counterparts.

The Hopper M30 does away with its predecessor's bulky hard-to-use zipper and replaces it with a waterproof magnetic closure. Admittedly, it's still a little hard to use, but it automatically closes when you're done so you don't have to worry about forgetting to close it and coming back to warm beers (Well-worth the hassle in my book.)

What else I considered: Hydro Flask 22 L Soft Cooler and YETI Tundra Haul Cooler

Why carry a water filter and a jerry can when you can have it all-in-one? The LifeSaver Jerry Can holds up to 18.5-liters of water and features a pump water filter that pressurizes the can to deliver clean, safe water when you need it. The system utilizes an ultrafiltration method to filter out viruses, bacteria, cysts, and parasites and cleans up to 10,000 liters of water before needing a filter replacement.

I use this for drinking water, water for my dog, or to clean my dishes after cooking. Since the Jerry Can filters as you use it, I never have to worry about my water getting recontaminated days into my trip. This can is more expensive than others I've tested, but it's worth the peace of mind.

What else I considered: Reliance Water Carrier and Front Runner Outfitter Jerry Can

You could bring utensils from your kitchen in a pinch, but I really prefer having a separate set just for camping that I always keep packed to avoid forgetting it. I love this set because it doesn't feel like typical cheap plastic camping utensils.

It has a full-tang knife with an oak handle and brass rivets to hold it all together and the oak spoon, spatula, and fork feel sturdy in-hand and clean-up beautifully. The stainless steel grater is perfect for cheese or even zesting lemons or limes. Two small interior mesh pockets are just the right size for a small bottle of oil or spices.

What else I considered: MSR Alpine Deluxe Kitchen Set and GSI Kitchen Set 24

Waking up in the woods and having a cup of fresh-brewed coffee is one of life's greatest pleasures. I love the insulated french press from Stanley because it's not complicated to use and keeps coffee warm for up to four hours. The filter is easy to clean and is dishwasher-safe for deep-cleaning once you're home, too.

The 48-ounce container makes enough for your whole camp — or two people who drink coffee all day long. I've also used this to make cold-brewed coffee by leaving water and coffee grounds inside overnight and straining like normal in the morning. Just add some milk or cream and you're ready to go.

What else I considered: Eureka Camp Cafe System and GSI Collapsible Pour Over

Hefty and stackable, the Wolf Pack Bins from Front Runner Outfitter provide a safe place to store your camp kitchen gear. The lid is held down by four separate clips on the corners to ensure they won't come undone while you're traveling.

These bins are water-resistant enough to strap to your roof or store in the bed of your truck and the straight sides allow for easy and organized storage of pretty much anything and eliminate wasted space. Need more room? You can add up to 2.5-inches of height with the Wolf Pack Hi-Lid add-on.

What else I considered: Rubbermaid Action Packer and YETI LoadOut 30 GoBox

When you're done with the single-use green propane canisters, more likely than not, they end up in landfills. When using a refillable option is so easy, we should all be considering them for our next camping trip. I love the Ignik Gas Growler Deluxe thanks to the heavy-duty carrying case and included long hose for connecting to your camp stove.

To refill, I take it to my local propane dealer and they refill the 5-pound container for around $4. Make sure to call ahead in your area to ask if refilling tanks is an option at their location. It's cheaper than the little green bottles and I don't feel guilty using it.

What else I considered: Flame King Refillable Propane Tank and Coleman Propane Fuel Cylinder

In the summer, this chair comes everywhere with me — to the lake, the park, camping, or even to my backyard. The integrated backpack straps make transport easier than ever and free up my hands for a cooler or a cold beverage.

When you're ready to go, simply fold the chair in half and clip it closed with an attached loop and hook fastener. The wooden armrests give the chair a natural feel and have held up well to dings and scratches.

What else I considered: REI Flexlite Camp Chair and L.L. Bean Base Camp Love Seat