How to Choose a Backpacking Stove
How to Choose a Backpacking Stove
Decide on the stove type you want
Backpacking stoves are categorized by the type of fuel they use and how the fuel is stored.
Canister stoves use canisters of isobutane or propane. They’re easy to use and low maintenance.
Integrated canister systems pair a canister with a burner and a built-in pot.
Liquid fuel stoves connect to refillable fuel bottles. They’re versatile because they burn many types of fuels like white gas, kerosene and unleaded auto fuel.
Alternative-fuel stoves run on fuel pellets, wood or other fuel.
The pros and cons of each type
Canister stoves. Pros: easy to use. Low maintenance. Boils quickly. Cons: flame can weaken in the cold.
Integrated canister systems. Pros: boil water extremely quickly. Cons: prone to tipping.
Liquid fuel stoves. Pros: work well in cold weather. Boil water quickly, even in cold weather. Cons: require priming and occasional maintenance.
Wood-Burning Stoves. Pros: often simple, lightweight. Cons: require finding dry wood. Fire bans may limit use.
Denatured Alcohol Stoves. Pros: simple, quiet, use cheap alcohol. Cons: slow to boil.
Select the right specs and features
Consider a stove’s weight, average time to boil one liter of water and whether it features a push-button spark igniter (found on some canister-fuel stoves).
