How to Nest Titanium Pots and Cups for Compact Cooking
By Six Moon Designs | Published: 2026-10-19
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to nest titanium pots and cups to save pack space and weight. Get step-by-step tips for building a compact ultralight cook kit.
Quick answer
Nest your titanium cup inside your larger titanium pot, with the lid secured on top, to create a compact cook kit that saves space and protects your gear.
Why nesting matters for ultralight backpacking
Every ounce counts when you're backpacking, and a nested cook kit can save significant space in your pack. By combining your pot and cup into one unit, you eliminate dead air and make it easier to pack your gear efficiently.
Titanium is ideal for nesting because it's lightweight and durable. However, not all pots and cups nest perfectly together, so it's important to choose compatible sizes.
Trade-offs to consider
Nesting adds a little weight because you're carrying both items, but the space savings usually outweigh the extra ounces. Also, a nested kit can be bulkier than carrying just a pot, but it's still more compact than packing them separately.
If you use a stove that fits inside your pot, be careful not to scratch the titanium. Consider wrapping the stove in a cloth or using a stuff sack to protect the pot's surface.
Steps to nest your titanium cook kit
- Choose compatible sizes: Select a pot with a diameter that is larger than your cup's external diameter. For example, the 900 ml D115MM pot (internal diameter 115mm) fits the 450 ml cup (external diameter 87mm) with room to spare. Check the external diameter of your cup against the internal diameter of your pot.
- Place the cup inside the pot: Set the cup upside down or right side up inside the pot. For a snug fit, place it upside down so the lid of the pot can sit flat on top. Ensure the cup doesn't protrude above the pot's rim, or the lid won't close.
- Secure the lid: Place the pot lid on top, pressing down gently to ensure it fits snugly. If your stove or fuel canister fits inside, place it next to the cup before securing the lid. Test the fit at home before your trip to avoid surprises on the trail.
- Pack the nested kit: Store the nested kit in a stuff sack or directly in your pack, with the lid facing up to prevent items from spilling out. Keep it accessible if you plan to cook during the day. Consider wrapping the kit in a bandana to prevent rattling and protect the titanium.
Product facts
- TITANIUM 900ML D115MM POT: The 900 ml Titanium Pot with Lid weighs 4.4 oz (124g) with lid and has a capacity of 30 oz (900 ml). This pot offers enough room to nest a 450 ml cup and still have space for a small stove or fuel canister.
TITANIUM 900ML D115MM POT - TITANIUM 450ML Cup w/ Lid: The 450 ml Titanium Cup with Lid weighs 3.2 oz (91g) with lid and has a capacity of 15.2 oz (450 ml). This cup is a perfect nesting companion for the 900 ml pot, fitting snugly inside without adding bulk.
TITANIUM 450ML Cup w/ Lid
