Why You Should Cook Outside
Cooking outdoors isn’t just about satisfying hunger. It’s a way to connect with nature and create lasting experiences together. Lighting a fire, preparing ingredients, and making a meal from scratch in the open air brings a sense of presence. You don’t need to bring much – but you do need the right tools. And a good camping knife is essential.Few tools are as vital to outdoor life as a great knife. When cooking outdoors, it’s often the tool you reach for the most. It should be able to cut meat, clean fish, chop vegetables, open packaging, whittle skewers, and sometimes even help you with fire prep or gear repair.
What Should a Good Outdoor Cooking Knife Handle?
In a home kitchen, you might have multiple knives. But when you're outdoors, you may only carry one or two. That’s why versatility is key. A good food prep knife for camping should:- Be light enough to pack but sturdy enough for a variety of outdoor tasks
- Have a sharp edge suitable for meat, fish, vegetables, and bread
- Offer a secure grip in all conditions
- Be easy to clean and dry in the field
- Bonus if the spine works with a ferro rod – fire starting becomes faster and easier.
You might want a dedicated camping knife for cooking, or a multi-use tool suitable for both food and other survival needs. Many people bring two: a smaller version for precision and a larger one for heavy-duty work.
1 595 kr
Rombo BlackBlade is a small chef’s knife for outdoor cooking. It features a sleek design with an ash wood handle and a black PVD-coated full tang blade made of Swedish stainless steel, and is easy to carry in your backpack.
279 kr
Companion Fishing Scaler 098 (S) is a stainless steel fishing knife with a serrated back, designed for scaling and gutting fish. Ergonomic grip and polymer sheath with belt clip.
389 kr
Karl-Johan Mushroom Knife (S) features a tipless stainless steel blade and an ergonomic polymer handle. The genuine horsehair brush and easy-to-clean polymer sheath make mushroom picking, cutting, and cleaning simple and convenient.
1 300 kr
Garberg (S) with leather sheath is a bushcraft knife with a full-tang blade made of Swedish stainless steel. Built for versatile use in the wild, from batoning wood to starting fires, featuring a durable leather sheath.
Smart Packing – Knives and Gear for Outdoor Cooking
- Bring a larger knife for slicing meat, fish, bread, and root veggies. A sturdy camping knife with good balance makes a big difference when prepping dinner in windy conditions.
- If space allows, bring a smaller knife too. Great for feather sticks, tinder prep, or working with your fire starter. Eldris takes up almost no room and adds real versatility.
- Always pack a ferro rod. Lighting a fire or stove in wet environments can be tough – a ferro rod paired with a knife like Eldris or Garberg ensures you're covered.
- Choose your heat source wisely. A storm stove might be best for long trips, while a campfire suits spontaneous outings. Use deadwood, and always extinguish properly.
- A small cutting board and cloth go a long way. More control when cutting, and an easy way to keep hands and tools clean.
- Store your knives safely. Use a sheath, knife roll, or protective sleeve. This protects the knife, your fingers, and your gear – and keeps everything sharp longer.
- Don’t forget the spices! A small tin with your favorites can elevate any meal. Salt, pepper, chili flakes, or dried garlic can transform the simplest dish.
- Most importantly – enjoy it. Cooking outdoors isn’t just about the food – it’s about the moment. Take your time, experiment with flavors, and let nature be part of the experience.
FAQs – Outdoor Cooking & Camping Knives
How many knives should I bring on a camping trip?
Usually, one or two is enough – one general purpose knife and a smaller one for precision tasks. That’s all most people need to handle food prep, small repairs, and fire starting.How do I clean my knife after cooking?
Rinse with clean water or wipe with a damp cloth. If you’re using carbon steel, dry thoroughly and oil the blade before storing.Which knife is best for outdoor cooking?
We recommend Rombo from our Ash Wood Collection – its wide, stable blade makes it perfect for slicing and prepping food, whether you're using a stove or open fire.Is it safe to cook with a camping knife?
Yes – as long as you use proper technique. Always cut away from yourself, keep your fingers clear, and maintain a solid grip. Packing a small first aid kit with bandages and gauze is also a smart move.Can I build a fire in nature?
It depends on local regulations and season. Always check for fire bans. If fires are allowed, use deadwood, stay in safe areas, and put it out completely when done.Do I need a full tang knife for outdoor cooking?
Not necessarily – but a full tang knife like Garberg offers added strength and durability. It’s a great option if you combine food prep with tougher outdoor tasks.Can I use the same knife for food and firewood?
Yes – just clean it thoroughly in between. If you use the knife to split wood, make sure it’s free from dirt and bacteria before handling food.