I have decided that I like having real hot meals when I don’t have to carry stuff far on my back, and I like to cook over charcoal. I tend to avoid open campfires when it’s just me. I just found this little grill combo that just happens to fit perfectly into a Gamma Sealed 5 gallon bucket, with room left over for charcoal, starter, trash bag, and other necessities. For one or two night trips, meats can be frozen and used as part of the cooling ice (in a real cooler). I use a small MSR fuel bottle for the starter fluid.
google - the big backyard portable barbecue grill & cooler bag
Sierra Trading Post currently has them on closeout for $20.