Why a Cast Iron Skillet is Your Best Camping Companion

Camp cooking can go one of two ways: it’s either instant noodles in a dodgy pot, or it’s real, satisfying food that makes everyone ask, “Wait, you cooked that out here?”

The difference? Mostly your gear. And nothing earns its spot in your camp kit like a cast iron skillet.

Whether you're frying up brekkie at sunrise or searing steaks over coals, a skillet is one of those rare cookware pieces that does what it promises (and then some). Here’s why it’s worth packing, how to use it, and what to look for if you’re choosing your first one.

Built Tough for the Outdoors

When you're out in the elements, you want gear that won’t crack under pressure – or heat. But cast iron? It’s virtually indestructible. It can handle direct flame, high heat, uneven coals, and all the knocks of being chucked in a tub with the rest of your gear. Unlike other types of pans, cast iron doesn’t warp, peel, or freak out when you throw it on the fire

Cast iron can go straight from the firepit to the table. 

Camp-Friendly Cooking Without Compromise

You can fry, sear, bake, roast or toast in a good skillet, and if it’s seasoned properly, you won’t be scrubbing it for half the trip. From bacon and eggs in the morning to crispy potatoes or flatbread at night, it handles a surprising variety of meals, even without a full kitchen setup.

Pair it with a grill grate or just balance it over the coals – either way, it holds heat evenly and keeps cooking long after the fire dies down. You don’t need much flame to get it going, which is perfect for slower cooking or keeping meals warm while everyone’s plating up.

Easy to Clean, Easier to Maintain

No dishwashing station? No problem. Cleaning a cast iron skillet on the go is dead simple. Once it’s cool, just:

1. For light cooking (no sticky mess):

• Wipe the pan clean with a paper towel.
• Place it over low heat on your stove or fire.
• Use a fresh paper towel to coat the surface lightly with oil.
• Turn the heat up to high for a minute or two to sterilise.
• Let it cool.

2. For stickier, saucier meals:

• Fill the pan with water and bring it to a rolling boil.
• Use a spatula or wooden spoon to scrape off any stuck-on bits.
• For tougher residue, you can use an iron scrub (gently).

3. Rinse with hot water.

• No soap—just hot water to rinse everything away.

4. Dry it thoroughly.

• Use a tea towel or place it over low heat to get rid of any leftover moisture.

5. Re-oil the surface.

• Once dry, coat the inside of the pan lightly with oil using a paper towel.

6. Heat again until dry.

• Place it over medium heat until the oil dries and the surface looks smooth and matte.

That’s it. No soap, no scrubbing, and no worries about non-stick coatings flaking off. Now your skillet’s clean, protected, and ready for the next cook-up.

👉 Also read: How to Season Your Cast Iron Cookware for Long-Lasting Use

Pre-Seasoned = Ready to Go

Crumble’s pre-seasoned cast iron skillet is raw iron that’s already been treated with a layer of seasoning, meaning you can use it right out of the box. Over time, that layer will build up and improve, giving you a naturally non-stick surface that’s completely chemical-free. It’s worth giving it a little TLC and seasoning now and then (especially after campfire use), but the more you cook with it, the better it gets. 

Our Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet doubles as a shmick-looking serving platter!

Not Just for the Fire

One of the best parts? Your cast iron skillet doesn’t have to be just for camping. It works on induction, gas, and electric cooktops too – so you can use it all week at home, then chuck it in the boot for the weekend.

That’s why it’s worth investing in one that lasts. It’s not just another thing you buy for “when you go camping.” It’s something you’ll genuinely use all the time.

Don’t Forget the Rest of Your Camping Cookware

Don’t Forget the Rest of Your Camping Cookware

A good skillet’s even better when you pair it with the right tools:

Non-scratch wood spoon – for stirring, flipping, and scraping without damaging your seasoning
Utility knife or paring knife – for campsite chopping
Biodegradable kitchen towels – for clean-up that’s eco-friendly and compact

Grab a Cast Iron Skillet Today 

You don’t need a full kitchen to cook properly outdoors. With a cast iron skillet in your kit, you can make real food — hot, satisfying, and miles better than the sad, soggy stuff most people settle for.

Explore Crumble’s camping-ready cookware and cook something worth remembering on your next trip.

Looking for More Cookware? 

Love our cast iron skillet? You might also like something from these collections:

Non-stick cookware – Frypans and saucepans that make clean-up easy
Cast iron cookware – Made for cooks who want durability 
Casserole pots – Ideal for oven bakes and hearty meals
Knives – From everyday chopping to bread slicing without squish
Ceramic accessories – Handy extras like non-scratch spoons and steamer baskets

👉🏻 Keep Reading

Your Guide to Campfire Cooking with Cast Iron
What Can I Cook in a Dutch Oven?
The Best Cookware Based on Your Cooking Style