These mess kits are absolutely awesome! I've got a number of other mess kits of varying sizes and weights but I rate this one as foremost above them all. With the kidney shape it fits perfectly on the sides of your pack or belt if you wish. Inside it has heaps of room, I keep my gas bottle, titanium stove, lighter, spoon, tea towel, some tea sachets all in the main compartment. Then the top one a tin of meat, some buckwheat and soup mix. To strap it closed nice and tight i just use these straps from Bunnings: https://www.bunnings.co.nz/grunt-pull-tie-down-strap-25mm-x-1m-2pk_p00274558.
I've got mess kits that are slightly lighter but don't have the extra tray and then i can't fit the same volume of food etc. in it so it just needs to be stashed in my pack elsewhere anyway. So for the sake of a slither more grams in weight Im head and shoulders ahead with this kit, all with the benefit of the stuff inside being protected inside its own aluminium carry case!
These are strong yet very light and fit perfectly inside any pack with the kidney shape, a practical, sturdy and timeless design! Nothing quite like a warm brew whilst slogging up a hill on a cold wet day!