Mess Tins, Plates & Utensils

Mess tins, camping plates and KFS utensil sets for eating well in the field. Hard-wearing military-style aluminium mess tins from Highlander, Kombat and Mil-Com, plus knife, fork and spoon sets.

Mess tins are the backbone of a field kit because each one does three jobs: pan, plate and bowl. The classic aluminium two-tin set nests together to pack flat, heats fast over a stove or fire, and the larger tin doubles as your plate when the food is ready. Highlander, Kombat and Mil-Com all make the traditional British Army pattern, so they fit standard webbing pouches.

For cutlery, a KFS set gives you a knife, fork and spoon that clip together and will not rattle loose in a pack. The military-style sets are stainless steel and built to last years, and a long-handled food-pack spoon reaches the bottom of a ration pouch without coating your knuckles. The Highlander Scran Box adds a sealed container for carrying prepared food, and the folding grill turns any fire into a cooking surface.

Think about group size and how you cook. A solo walker needs one mess tin set and a spork, a family wants several. Pair these with a camping stove to cook on and Water Bottles to drink from.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a mess tin and how do I use it?

A mess tin is a lightweight aluminium container that works as a pan, a plate and a bowl. The classic set has two tins that nest together to pack flat, then separate so you can cook in one and eat from the other.

What does KFS stand for?

KFS stands for knife, fork and spoon, the basic set of eating utensils for the field. The sets here clip together so they stay tidy in a pack and will not rattle loose.

Are mess tins safe to use on a stove or open fire?

Aluminium mess tins are made to heat food directly over a camping stove or fire. Use a cloth or gloves to handle them once hot, since the metal conducts heat quickly.