This review dives into the Decathlon Quechua 24-piece camp cookset, a comprehensive cooking system designed for four people. We explore its features, from the durable storage sack and clever design elements, to the high-quality materials used in its construction. The set includes a non-stick frying pan, stainless steel pot, cutlery, bowls, cups, and a lid that doubles as a strainer – all neatly packed for easy transport. We’ll examine the performance of each component, focusing on durability, ease of use, and overall functionality after extended use.This in-depth assessment evaluates the cookset’s value proposition, considering its price point and the quality of materials used. We’ll highlight both the strengths and weaknesses, addressing aspects like the non-stick coating, heat distribution, and the ergonomics of the included utensils. Ultimately, we aim to determine whether the Decathlon Quechua 24-piece camp cookset is a worthwhile investment for outdoor enthusiasts, weighing its impressive features against any minor shortcomings.
Read more: 5 Ultralight Camping Cookware Sets for Backpacking
Unboxing and Overview
The Decathlon Quechua 24-piece camp cookset arrives in a compact, durable storage sack. The sack itself is a clever design, featuring a polyester base and a mesh top. A rubber strap secures the entire set, doubling as a carrying handle and a heat-resistant mat for hot cookware.
Inside, you'll find a complete cooking system for four people. This includes a non-stick frying pan (1-liter capacity), four sets of cutlery (spoon, fork, and knife), a lid that doubles as a strainer, four bowl/plates (two red, two blue), and four cups (also in red and blue).
Finally, the set boasts a substantial 2.5-liter stainless steel pot with locking handles and convenient internal measurements.
Materials and Construction
Decathlon, a globally recognized outdoor retailer, uses high-quality materials in this cookset. The pans are made from 304 stainless steel, known for its resistance to oxidation and corrosion. The pot and pan feature a unique double aluminum base for even heat distribution – a feature not typically found at this price point.
The cutlery is crafted from polyamide, while the plates and cups are made of polypropylene. The heat-resistant mat is silicone. This careful choice of materials contributes to the cookset's durability and performance.
The multi-ply construction of the pot and pan (aluminum core sandwiched between layers of stainless steel) ensures efficient heat transfer and prevents the aluminum from directly contacting food or water.
Performance and Durability
The non-stick surface of the frying pan and pot has performed exceptionally well, showing no signs of wear after a year of use. Food releases easily, making cleanup a breeze. While some discoloration on the base of the pots is expected with stainless steel, it doesn't impact functionality.
The cutlery is sturdy, although slightly short. The entire set nests compactly, making storage and transportation simple. The overall durability after extended use is impressive, demonstrating the quality of the materials and construction.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Smart design, compact size, excellent price-to-performance ratio, high-quality materials (double aluminum base is a standout feature), durable and non-stick cookware, easy cleanup.
Cons: Handles on the pot need careful monitoring near heat sources; cups have an awkward shape, making them prone to spills; the color scheme could be more cohesive.
Final Verdict
The Decathlon Quechua 24-piece camp cookset offers exceptional value for its price. The quality of the cookware, particularly the pot and frying pan with their double aluminum base, surpasses expectations for a $60 set. While minor drawbacks exist (cup design, color scheme), these are outweighed by its overall practicality, durability, and impressive features.
This is a great option for car camping, overlanding or use at a cabin. While not ideal for backpacking due to its weight, it's a highly recommended versatile kit for families or groups of four who value a compact, well-designed, and affordable cooking system.