REDCAMP Outdoor Lightweight Stainless Steel Camping Kettle with Carrying Bag Review

When comparing camping kettles for coffee brewing, here’s how the REDCAMP stacks up against similar options:

Useful Accessories:

• Collapsible coffee dripper for pour-over brewing
• Heat-resistant glove or pot holder (handle gets warm)
• Small cleaning brush for the spout
• Storage container for your coffee grounds

The REDCAMP camping kettle doesn’t try to be fancy - it’s a straightforward, well-built piece of gear that gets the job done. Having used it multiple times for both morning coffee and evening tea sessions, I’ve grown to appreciate its simplicity.

Key Specs:

• Capacity: 0.9L (30.4 fl oz)
• Weight: 260g (9.2 oz)
• Height: 15cm (5.9 inches)
• Diameter: 9cm (3.5 inches)
• Material: Stainless Steel 304

The kettle features a foldable handle that clicks satisfyingly into place, though it does get warm during extended use. The threaded bottom isn’t just for show - it noticeably improves heat transfer from your stove. One detail I particularly like is the short spout design, which gives you good control when pouring without drips.

Built from stainless steel 304, this kettle feels bombproof. The wide mouth makes filling and cleaning a breeze, and you can even cook simple meals in it if needed. A mesh carrying bag comes included - it’s basic but does the job of protecting the kettle in your pack.

Using the REDCAMP kettle is pretty straightforward, but there are some tricks to getting the best results. Here’s what I’ve learned from regular use:

The wide mouth makes filling easy - you can pour straight from a water bottle or dip from a stream. That threaded bottom really does help with heat distribution - I’ve found it boils water about a minute faster than my friend’s smooth-bottom kettle on the same stove.

For the best results:

1. Fill to just below the spout base
2. Position the kettle centered on your heat source
3. Keep the handle up while heating
4. Listen for the characteristic whistle from the spout
5. Use a cloth when grabbing the handle - it gets warm!

Boiling times vary with conditions, but I typically see:

• 2-3 minutes for a half kettle
• 4-5 minutes for a full kettle
• Add 1-2 minutes in cold or windy conditions

The short spout provides good pouring control - I’ve used it successfully with various pour-over drippers without any messy spills.

After borrowing this kettle regularly for coffee breaks and weekend trips, here’s what stands out:

What’s Great:

• Built like a tank - this thing can take a beating
• Heats water surprisingly fast with that threaded bottom
• Pours smoothly without drips or spills
• Wide mouth makes cleaning a breeze
• Works well for basic cooking too

Could Be Better:

• Handle gets warmer than I’d like during extended use
• At 260g, it’s not winning any ultralight competitions
• The 0.9L capacity means multiple boils for group camping
• Mesh bag feels a bit flimsy compared to the kettle
• No measurement markings inside

Real-World Performance: Last month I used this for a weekend camping trip with four people. The good news: it handled morning coffee duties like a champ, taking about 4 minutes to boil on a standard camping stove. The bad news: with four caffeine-deprived campers, we needed several rounds of boiling.

The handle heat issue isn’t a dealbreaker, but it’s definitely something to watch out for. During one particularly long brewing session, I absent-mindedly grabbed the handle without a cloth - lesson learned!

Despite these minor gripes, the kettle’s durability shines through. I’ve seen it dropped, packed roughly, and even used for cooking pasta (not its intended purpose, but it worked), and it still looks practically new.

When it comes to portability, the REDCAMP kettle presents some interesting trade-offs. At 260g, it’s not exactly featherweight, but the robust construction means you won’t need to baby it in your pack.

The folding handle works well for packing - it clicks down firmly against the body, creating a compact package that’s easy to stuff into a backpack. The included mesh bag helps prevent scratches, though I usually wrap it in a bandana for extra protection.

Size-wise, it hits a sweet spot for most trips:

• Height: 15cm (5.9”)
• Diameter: 9cm (3.5”)
• Packed volume: About 1 liter

One clever detail: the kettle’s base diameter matches common camping stove supports, providing good stability even on uneven ground. During a recent mountain hike, this proved particularly valuable on a rather precarious cooking spot.

For car camping or base camp setups, the weight is a non-issue. But if you’re counting every gram for a long-distance trek, you might want to look at lighter alternatives.

From my experience using this kettle, it’s particularly well-suited for:

Weekend Warriors If you’re the type who throws gear in the car Friday afternoon and heads for the hills, this kettle’s durability and ease of use make it a perfect match. The slight weight penalty won’t matter when you’re car camping.

Rough Handlers Some people baby their gear - others toss it around with abandon. If you’re in the latter camp, this kettle can take whatever you dish out. I’ve seen it survive being dropped on rocks with barely a scratch.

Budget-Conscious Brewers While not the cheapest option out there, it offers excellent durability for the price. Think of it as a long-term investment in your outdoor coffee game.

Group Campers Despite the moderate capacity, the quick boiling time makes it practical for small groups who don’t mind waiting for multiple rounds of hot water.

All-Weather Adventurers The solid construction and efficient heating make it reliable even in challenging conditions - I’ve used it successfully in both summer heat and near-freezing temperatures.

Based on regular use, this kettle isn’t ideal for:

Ultralight Backpackers Let’s be honest - at 260g, there are lighter options out there. If you’re counting every gram, look at titanium alternatives.

Pour-Over Perfectionists While the spout works fine for basic brewing, it doesn’t offer the precise flow control you’d get from a dedicated gooseneck kettle. During testing, I found it challenging to achieve that perfect spiral pour that coffee nerds love.

Large Groups The 0.9L capacity can feel limiting when brewing for more than 2-3 people. On a recent camping trip with six people, the multiple boiling rounds became a bit tedious.

Minimalist Travelers If you’re the type who gets by with instant coffee and cold brew, this might be more kettle than you need. A simple cup and some packets might serve you better.

Better alternatives for these users might include:

• Snow Peak Field Barista Kettle for pour-over enthusiasts
• GSI Outdoors Halulite Kettle for ultralight travelers
• Larger capacity options for group camping

While I’ve only borrowed this kettle periodically over the past year, I’ve noticed some interesting patterns in its performance and durability:

The stainless steel construction really holds up - even after numerous camping trips and office coffee sessions, it shows minimal wear. The threaded bottom design continues to deliver consistent heat transfer, though I’ve noticed it can collect a bit of soot that needs occasional scrubbing.

One small quirk emerged over time: the handle’s folding mechanism developed a slight wobble after a few months of regular use. It’s not concerning, but worth noting. The spout, however, has maintained its drip-free pouring - a feature I’ve come to really appreciate during pour-over brewing.

The mesh bag has proven to be the weak link - after about six months, it started showing signs of wear at the seams. Nothing a bit of simple repair couldn’t fix, but something to keep in mind.

Heat retention remains impressive - water stays hot enough for a second cup of coffee even after 15-20 minutes in moderate conditions. That’s pretty handy when you’re brewing for two people.

Keeping the REDCAMP kettle in good shape isn’t rocket science, but there are some tricks I’ve learned:

Daily Cleaning:

• A quick rinse with hot water usually does the job
• Wipe the outside with a dry cloth to prevent water spots
• Let it air dry completely before storing

Deep Cleaning:

• Use a bottle brush to reach inside corners
• A dash of vinegar helps remove mineral buildup
• Pay special attention to the spout - small grounds can get stuck there

Storage Tips: The kettle likes to be dry when stored. I learned this the hard way after finding some water spots inside after a week in storage. Now I always:

• Dry thoroughly before packing away
• Store with the lid slightly open for airflow
• Keep the handle folded to prevent stress on the hinge

Dealing with Common Issues:

• Stubborn stains? A paste of baking soda and water works wonders
• Wobbly handle? Check and tighten the screws
• Mineral buildup? Boil a vinegar-water solution for 10 minutes

Prevention:

• Avoid heating empty
• Use a cloth or glove when handling hot
• Don’t scrub with abrasive materials

The environmental footprint of this kettle is worth considering. Here’s what I’ve observed:

Build Quality: The stainless steel construction means this kettle will likely outlast several cheaper alternatives. During our time using it, it’s shown no signs of deterioration that would send it to a landfill anytime soon.

Material Impact:

• Stainless steel is recyclable
• No plastic components to break down
• Durable design reduces replacement needs

Usage Impact: The threaded bottom design isn’t just marketing - it genuinely improves heating efficiency, which means less fuel consumption during use. During camping trips, I’ve noticed it typically uses about 20% less fuel than a flat-bottomed kettle to reach boiling.

Packaging: Pretty minimal - just the kettle, mesh bag, and a small instruction card. No excessive plastic wrapping or unnecessary materials.

Long-term Considerations:

• Repairable design extends lifespan
• No disposable elements needed
• Can reduce reliance on single-use coffee equipment

After using this kettle alongside various other camping gear, its value proposition becomes clear:

Performance Points:

• Heats quickly and efficiently
• Durable enough to last years
• Versatile for both coffee and basic cooking

Cost Context: Sitting in the mid-range segment, it delivers features usually found in pricier models:

• Stainless steel construction
• Efficient heat distribution
• Reliable pouring control

Long-term Value: The durability factor really shines here. While some cheaper kettles might need replacement after a year or two of regular use, this one seems built for the long haul.

Feature Comparison: Matches up well against more expensive options with:

• Similar build quality
• Comparable heating efficiency
• Included carrying bag

Value Verdict: For the features and durability offered, it hits a sweet spot between budget and premium options. You could spend less, but you’d likely sacrifice durability. Spend more, and you’re mainly paying for brand names or marginal weight savings.

Here are some handy tips I’ve discovered while using this kettle:

1. Pre-warming Hack: Fill with hot tap water before heating - it cuts boiling time by about a minute and saves fuel. Picked this up during a chilly morning brew session when fuel was running low.

2. Handle Protection: Wrap a silicone band or piece of paracord around the handle’s middle section. Creates an always-ready heat barrier that’s more convenient than searching for a pot holder.

3. Volume Marking: Use a permanent marker to add fill lines on the inside. I marked mine at 500ml and 750ml - super helpful for precise brewing measurements.

4. Wind Shield: Roll a piece of aluminum foil into a C-shape around your stove. The kettle’s threaded bottom works even better with this wind protection.

5. Storage Maximizer: The kettle’s cavity makes a great storage space. I often pack my coffee filters and a small bag of grounds inside during transport.

6. Quick Cool Down: Need to pack up quickly? Submerge just the bottom third in a stream or water source. Cools down enough to pack in about 2 minutes flat.

7. Spout Cleaning: An old toothbrush works perfectly for cleaning the spout - just give it a quick scrub while the kettle’s still warm.

Based on questions I’ve fielded while using this kettle:

1. Q: Does it actually boil water in 4-5 minutes? A: Yes, but conditions matter. On a standard camping stove at sea level with no wind, it consistently hits boiling in about 4 minutes for a full kettle.

2. Q: Can you cook in it? A: Yes, though it’s not ideal. I’ve successfully made oatmeal and rehydrated meals in it. Just be prepared for more thorough cleaning afterward.

3. Q: How hot does the handle really get? A: Warm enough to be uncomfortable after about 3-4 minutes of heating, but not scalding. Using a small cloth solves the issue.

4. Q: Will it work on a campfire? A: It can, but I wouldn’t recommend it. Direct flame contact can cause uneven heating and potentially damage the threaded bottom. Stick to stoves when possible.

5. Q: Is it truly leakproof when packed? A: The lid fits snugly but isn’t completely watertight. I always make sure it’s completely dry before packing.

6. Q: How many cups of coffee can you make with one full kettle? A: With a 0.9L capacity, you can make about 2-3 standard cups of pour-over coffee, depending on your brewing ratio.

7. Q: Does the mesh bag actually protect it? A: Somewhat. It prevents scratches but won’t protect against impacts. I usually wrap it in a piece of clothing for extra protection.