Article: BASECAMP vs SCOUT vs TREKKER: Which Kelly Kettle Is Right for You?
BASECAMP vs SCOUT vs TREKKER: Which Kelly Kettle Is Right for You?
Choosing Your Kelly Kettle: A Practical Guide
Kelly Kettles come in three sizes, and the right one depends entirely on how you camp, how many people you're with, and how much weight you're willing to carry. Here's an honest breakdown of each model.
The Three Models at a Glance
BASECAMP — 1.6 Litre
The BASECAMP is the original and most popular Kelly Kettle. It's built for families, groups, and base camp setups where weight isn't the primary concern but capacity is.
- Capacity: 1.6 litres — enough for 4–6 cups in one boil
- Best for: Car camping, family trips, base camps, 4WD adventures
- Weight: Heavier than the smaller models, but worth it when you need volume
- Verdict: If you're not hiking in and you want to boil water for a group without multiple rounds, this is your kettle.
SCOUT — 1.2 Litre
The SCOUT sits in the sweet spot between capacity and portability. It's the most versatile model — light enough to carry on a hike, large enough to serve two or three people comfortably.
- Capacity: 1.2 litres — enough for 2–4 cups per boil
- Best for: Couples, small groups, weekend hiking, kayaking, bikepacking
- Weight: Noticeably lighter than the BASECAMP
- Verdict: The SCOUT is the most popular choice for people who want a Kelly Kettle they can take anywhere. It's the one we'd recommend if you're unsure.
TREKKER — 0.6 Litre
The TREKKER is the ultralight option, designed for solo adventurers and minimalist packers who count every gram.
- Capacity: 0.6 litres — enough for 1–2 cups
- Best for: Solo hiking, ultralight backpacking, survival kits, emergency preparedness
- Weight: The lightest Kelly Kettle available
- Verdict: If you're going solo and every gram matters, the TREKKER delivers the full Kelly Kettle experience in the smallest possible package.
Quick Comparison Table
| Model | Capacity | Best For | Group Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| BASECAMP | 1.6L | Base camps, car camping, families | 4–6 people |
| SCOUT | 1.2L | Hiking, couples, versatile use | 2–3 people |
| TREKKER | 0.6L | Solo hiking, ultralight, survival | 1 person |
Aluminium vs Stainless Steel
All three models are available in both aluminium and stainless steel. Here's the short version:
- Aluminium is lighter and heats up slightly faster — great for weight-conscious hikers.
- Stainless steel is more durable, easier to clean, and better for long-term use. It's the most popular choice for good reason.
Still Not Sure?
Our honest recommendation for most people: start with the SCOUT in stainless steel. It handles the widest range of situations, and if you later want a BASECAMP for group trips or a TREKKER for solo missions, you'll know exactly why.
Questions? Browse the full range or get in touch — we're happy to help you find the right kettle for your adventures.
Written by David Sellar
