1. Solo Stove Lite
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Specifications:
- Build material: 304 stainless steel, nichrome wire
- Required fuel: Pine cones, twigs, sticks, and other biomass
- Time it takes to boil water: 8 – 10 minutes
- Included accessories: Nylon stuff stack
- Dimensions: 5.7” x 4.25” x 4.25”
- Weight: 9 ounces
- Warranty: Lifetime
The high-quality stainless steel and nichrome wire used in the manufacturing process makes this product very resistant for a long period of time. Furthermore,
it has a nylon stuff sack and it comes with a lifetime warranty against defects in material and workmanship. One of the main reasons why it is such a great model is the fact that due to its patented design, it uses less fuel in comparison with other models. The design features a
double wall and a secondary combustion , which makes it extremely efficient while producing less smoke.
Smart Features
At the same time, it features innovative holes on the bottom increasing the airflow and eventually causing the secondary combustion. Another interesting aspect about it is the fact that it doesn’t work on fuel, but it uses wood, leaves, twigs, sticks, or pinecones , which makes the product very convenient because you won’t have to carry any fuel in your bag. In what concerns the design of the Solo Lite, you will surely like the fact that it has a compact design, measuring 5.7” x 4.25” x 4.25” and weighing only 9 oz.
Award-winning
It is one of the best models on the market, the reason for which it occupies the first place in our top. The model is also recommended by Backpacker Magazin, being the winner of 2014 Gear of the Year. Therefore, with the help of this product, you can travel wherever you want and still enjoy a nice, warm meal. Since it doesn’t use any fuel, is an environmentally-friendly option, which is definitely an advantage.
PROS
- High-quality materials
- Comes with nylon stuff sack
- Lightweight and compact design
- 32 fl. oz. of water capacity
CONS
- Costly acquisition
- Circumference could have used to be a big bigger
VERDICT
The compact design allows you to carry it in your backpack without too much hassle, being very easy to use once you read the instructions. Additionally, the impressive lifetime warranty makes it a reliable choice. In comparison to other models that can boil water in less than 5 minutes, with it you have to wait up to 10 minutes to reach the boiling time but this is a small drawback and it doesn’t affect its performance.
2. Coleman Bottletop Propane
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Coleman Bottletop Propane
Specifications:
- Build material: Metal
- Required fuel: Propane
- Time it takes to boil water: 4 minutes
- Included accessories:
- Dimensions: 7.75” x 7.81” x 6.62”
- Weight: 2.2 pounds
- Warranty: 3 years
Compact and easy to carry, the Coleman Bottletop is a propane stove that lets you prepare delicious meals just like you do at home when you are on camping trips. It takes only 4 minutes for it to boil 1 liter of water, and on a full 16.4-ounce propane cylinder, it delivers up to 2.5 hours of cooking. One of its most impressive stats is that
it delivers up to 10000 BTUs of cooking power to get your meals done as quickly as possible.
It allows precise temperature control due to the adjustable burner that you can set as you desire. It uses the PerfectFlow technology to provide a consistent performance regardless of how extreme the outdoor conditions are, so you can rely on it even at high altitudes or in sub-freezing temperatures. Another mention-worthy feature is the PerfectHeat technology that ensures less fuel is used in the food preparation process to grant efficient cooking.
It fits an 8-inch pan, features a large base that is stable enough to ensure no incidents occur as you stir, and it comes with wind baffles that protect it from wind to ensure maximum heat throughout. Furthermore, Coleman backs it against defects during the first 3 years after you make the acquisition.
PROS
- Can last up to 2.5 hours on a full 16.4-ounce propane cylinder
- Provides a hearty 10000 BTUs of cooking power
- Consistent performance is granted by the PerfectFlow technology it uses
- Less fuel consumption ensured by the PerfectHeat technology it features
- Large design of the base makes stirring easy
CONS
- One of the more expensive options on the market
- Gas control should be improved a bit
VERDICT
With a 16.4-ounce propane cylinder and the Coleman stove by your side, you can prepare delicious meals throughout the entirety of your camping trip, just as you would at home. It’s easy to use and provides consistent performance even in extreme conditions, so it’s an acquisition you cannot afford to overlook.
3. Etekcity 2 Pack
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Specifications:
- Build material: Aluminum alloy, stainless steel
- Required fuel: Butane, butane-propane mixed canisters
- Time it takes to boil water: 3 and a half minutes
- Included accessories: Carry case
- Dimensions: 1.81” x 2.36” x 3.15”
- Weight: 8.8 ounces
- Warranty: 1 year
Whenever you need a model that is easily portable and easy to use, you can rely on the Etekcity that includes not one, but two stoves that can be attached to regular gas canisters.
Any 7/16 thread butane or butane/propane fuel canister is compatible with it. It burns the fuel completely so there are no traces or debris left behind after use, thus protecting the environment.
A feature worth naming is the adjustable control valve that allows you to adjust the flame’s intensity according to your needs. What it lacks are wind deflectors to protect the flame from wind, but this doesn’t keep it from boiling 1l of water in 3.5 minutes. While other models feature a 3-leg design, this one has 4 support legs for even more sturdiness during cooking.
Its support legs are made of a durable aluminum alloy that can hold heavy pots and can resist to high temperatures without changing shape or breaking under pressure. It is collapsible so you can easily fold it and carry it around in a backpack whenever you go camping as well. For even more convenience, there is also a carry case included so you can store them away. The product is covered by a 1-year warranty.
PROS
- Fast ignition
- 4 support legs for more stability
- Flame control valve
- Portable and lightweight design
- Output of 6.666 BTU
CONS
- No wind deflectors
- Flimsy design as opposed to other entries
VERDICT
It is very stable and it works on butane or propane but it was made with the environment in mind. The built-in valve for flame control allows you to choose the desired intensity for preparing a delicious food even if you are not at home. It needs up to 3.5 minutes to boil one liter of water. The only major drawback is the lack of wind deflectors.
4. MSR MicroRocket
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Specifications:
- Build material: Metal
- Required fuel: 80/20 blend of isobutane and propane
- Time it takes to boil water: 3 and a half minutes
- Included accessories: Carry case, handheld Piezo lighter
- Dimensions: 5” x 3.5” x 4”
- Weight: 2.6 ounces
- Warranty: 3 years
It’s small in size, but its efficiency outcomes the larger models. Weighing only 73 grams and measuring 5″ L x 3.5″ H x 4″ W, the MSR MicroRocket can be easily carried and thanks to the folding pot supports,
it can be folded to fit into an insulated mug for transportation.
Few products cover this aspect so it’s another advantage of this great camping model. However, it doesn’t sacrifice durability for compactness as it is made of sturdy materials that can withstand any type of weather without rusting. The pot supports are long and wide enough to hold pots of various sizes without the risk of tilting or falling. If other models can give you a hard time when igniting them, you will have no trouble lighting the flame of the MicroRocket.
The Piezo ignition consists of a protected element inside the fuel gathering tube so that the flame is rapidly ignited. Moreover, it features a WindClip protection for persistent flame despite the weather. Once it is lit, it will boil one liter of water in 3.5 minutes so you can shortly enjoy performance and efficiency.
Despite the fact it works on gas, there is nothing to worry about when handling it because the valve is tightly sealed to avoid any gas leaks. Simply connect it directly to a MSR gas canister and watch it performing an excellent job.
PROS
- The flame is rapidly ignited
- Compact shape and size makes it perfect for trips
- Robust design to ensure safety in use
- Short boiling time
- 60-minute burn time per 8-ounce canister
- An 8-ounce canister can boil approximately 16 liters of water
CONS
- Supports are far apart
- Some users report issues with the consistency of the piezo lighter
VERDICT
You won’t need more than 3 and a half minutes to boil one liter of water, so preparing your meals when you travel will be very easy. It is lightweight but is made from superior materials, allowing you to enjoy it for many years to come. However, it needs gas, so it’s not an eco-friendly option.
5. Ohuhu Portable Wood Burning Camping
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Ohuhu Portable Wood Burning Camping
Specifications:
- Build material: Stainless steel
- Required fuel: Pine cones, twigs, leaves, and wood
- Time it takes to boil water: 4 minutes
- Included accessories: Carry case
- Dimensions: 5.3″ x 5.3″ x 3″
- Weight: 14 ounces
- Warranty: 30-day money back guarantee
Our next choice is the Ohuhu that is as efficient and easy to use as the others but differs in an essential detail, which is the fuel type.
It works on wood , meaning you won’t have to buy a fuel canister as well. You can feed it with leaves, twigs, wood, or pinecones, and it will provide an even and stable flame.
The alcohol plate included feeds the flame and helps you ignite it fast so you can have a quick and lasting flame. You will notice that there is no feeding slot to keep adding wood to the flame and that is because it continues to burn the resulted carbon released from the burned wood in order to keep the flame burning.
It measures 5.3″ x 5.3″ x 3″ and weighs a little over 14 ounces, meaning you can grab and toss it into a bag to have it at hand whenever you need it. It also comes with a carry case for convenient transportation. Despite the lightweight design, it is durable, with support legs made of stainless steel that create a solid cooking platform and evenly distribute heat.
PROS
- Durable wood model
- Eco-friendly design
- Lightweight and portable design
CONS
- Pot rest isn’t of the best quality
- Some users report issues keeping the flame going
VERDICT
Ohuhu Portable Wood Burning Camping is the perfect alternative to fuel models. It works on wood, leaves, or pinecones, being the perfect companion for your trips. The flame is powerful, so you can boil water in less than 4 minutes. The overall construction is sturdy, yet lightweight, so you won’t even know you’re carrying it in your backpack. Additionally, cooking with it is very easy as the heat is distributed evenly for the best results.
6. Odoland Camping Cookware
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Specifications:
- Build material: Titanium
- Required fuel: Butane Gsd
- Time it takes to boil water: 5 minutes
- Included accessories: A mini stove, 2 aluminum non-stick pots, 1 spoon, 1 knife, 1 fork, and 1 stainless steel cup, 1 silicone insulated cup holder, 2 carry bags
- Dimensions: 4.5” x 4.5” x 2.3”, 4.8” x 4.8” x 4.1”
- Weight: 10 ounces
- Warranty: 30 days
In case you want to start an adventure outdoors, you should consider this kit. Inside of the package you will receive a mini stove, 2 aluminum non-stick pots, 1 spoon, 1 knife, 1 fork, and 1 stainless steel cup. As well as, you will also receive a 1 silicone insulated cup protector and 2 carry bags so
you can fit it wherever you wish. Additionally, you will enjoy the fact that the models are designed with anti-slip and anti-heat handles.
The anti-slip silicone handles and the silicone cup protectors will protect your hands from the excessive heat. In addition to this, the mini stove can be folded to save space. As well as, you can also remove the handles so you can make additional storage space. Moreover, the non-toxic anodized aluminum has a strong structure that you can rely on for numerous years to come. Even though it’s made from thick steel, the kit is lightweight and portable.
You should use the kit for camping, hiking, climbing, and hunting as the material is shock-proof and easy to clean. This means that it doesn’t require thorough maintenance and you can wash them with whatever you have at hand.
PROS
- It comes as a kit
- Easy to use
- Easy to clean
CONS
- It only works with propane gas
- Could be a bit cheaper
VERDICT
The reason why we recommend this model is due to the fact that it comes as a kit. This means that by considering this product you don’t have to spend additional money. In fact, this model is suitable for beginners or those who are looking for a practical and reliant model.
7. Reehut
Specifications:
- Build material: Aluminum alloy, stainless steel
- Required fuel: Gas
- Time it takes to boil water: 1-2 minutes
- Included accessories: Carry case
- Dimensions: 2.95” x 2.55” x 3.74”
- Weight: 9.6 ounces
- Warranty: Satisfaction guarantee
Burdening yourself with a heavy backpack is the last thing you want. Luckily, the stainless steel and aluminum alloy build of the Reehut ensure it won’t only handle the rough conditions outdoors but that it won’t weigh much, maintaining a praise-worthy portability. With the acquisition,
you even receive a carry case to more conveniently travel with it by your side.
The stainless steel gas furnace resists rust and corrosion for prolonged use. It features a windproof screen that condenses the flame and increases oxygen circulation to ensure efficient utilization of the combustion fuel. You have the freedom to adjust the flame as you like fur to the control valve it comes with.
If you choose to turn the heat up to the maximum point, it will boil water in approximately 2 minutes. Its piezo ignition system produces a push-button spark in an instant regardless of the conditions outdoors at that moment.
Its broad compatibility is another mention-worthy highlight as you can use any 7/16 thread single butane or butane-propane canister with it. Moreover, it features collapsible holding arms that can hold large-sized pots measuring as much as 7.87” in diameter.
PROS
- Piezo ignition system
- Adjustable control valve
- Compatible with all 7/16 thread single butane and butane/propane canisters
- Included carry case
CONS
- Some users reported that the spark broke easy
- Consumes a lot of fuel
VERDICT
One of the lightest and most portable models at the moment, it makes for a perfect camping companion. With an adjustable flame that allows you to set the heat as needed and the piezo ignition system to ensure quick ignition each time you use it, the Reehut is a definite must-have.
8. Redcamp
Specifications:
- Build material: Aluminum alloy, brass
- Required fuel: Alcohol
- Time it takes to boil water: 10 minutes
- Included accessories: Velvet storage bag
- Dimensions: 3” x 3” x 1.8”, 3.7”x 3.7” x 2.6”
- Weight: 5 ounces
- Warranty: 1 year
Easy to use and incredibly small, the Redcamp shines from the get-go as it is manufactured by a leading brand in the domain of backpacking/camping equipment.
It is made with aluminum allow and brass so that it withstands even harsh conditions, all while maintaining a lightweight design which makes it a cinch to carry the stove on your trips.
The wind screen base enhances stability and ensures the flame won’t die out easily even if the wind blows. Moreover, it is designed to support pots and pans so that you can prepare meals or coffee just as easily as you would at home.
It sues alcohol as fuel, and with 100 milliliters of alcohol you can expect the fire to last for up to 50 minutes. This incomparable efficiency is granted by the combustion holes it features which increase air ventilation. It even features a rubber seal that keeps the alcohol from leaking or evaporating.
A velvet bag that you can use for storage and transportation is included with the acquisition. Furthermore, the manufacturer backs it with a 1-year warranty against defects.
PROS
- Rubber seal prevents alcohol evaporation and leaks
- Combustion holes to increase air ventilation
- 100 milliliters of alcohol provide up to 50 minutes of fire
- Variable temperature control
CONS
- Some customers reported that the fuel leaks
- Poor quality pot stand
VERDICT
Manufactured by a professional outdoor equipment brand, the Redcamp provides a quick solution to heat up or even prepare food, coffee, and anything else that comes to mind as you go on your camping trips in the great outdoors.
9. OutSmart Ultralight Titanium
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OutSmart Ultralight Titanium
Specifications:
- Build material: Stainless steel
- Required fuel: Propane, butane, isobutene
- Time it takes to boil water: 2 minutes
- Included accessories: Textile carry pouch
- Dimensions: 2” x 1.5”
- Weight: 0.8 ounces
- Warranty: Lifetime
A compact and lightweight addition to your camping gear that provides with the luxury of you being able to prepare food and boil water, the OutSmart comes at a cheap price which further adds to its appeal. It
weighs a mere 0.8 ounces and measures 2 inches by 1.5 inches. It is compatible with multiple types of fuel, including isobutene, butane, and propane, consuming only 4.9 grams of gas per hour, which means that the costs of using it are incredibly low.
It is made with stainless steel which grants it high durability over the years and it is an Eco-friendly option to go for. As the valve can be folded, if you want to save extra room in the backpack, you can do so as folding it makes similar in size to a lighter.
One of its most appealing features, however, is the spiral flame technology which ensures an even flame distribution so that your meals are prepared quick and water is boiled faster than you would have ever expected, boiling a cup in only 2 minutes.
PROS
- Made with Eco-friendly materials
- Features a folding valve
- Spiral flame technology for even flame distribution
- Consumes only 4.9 grams of gas per hour
- Cheap asking price
CONS
- Some report issues with it maintaining a flame
- Not easy to connect with gas source
VERDICT
If you want to recreate the same comfort you feel at home when you go camping, one major piece that you have to integrate with your experience is cooking. For this, you can use the OutSmart, a tool no camper should go without as it is small and easy to carry in the backpack.
10. Canway Camping Stove
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Specifications:
- Build material: Stainless steel
- Required fuel: No fuel canisters needed
- Time it takes to boil water: 3 minutes
- Included accessories: Storage bag, user manual
- Dimensions: 5.5” x 5.5” x 3.38”
- Weight: 1.12 pounds
- Warranty: 2 years
One of the most Eco-friendly options to go with, the Canway helps you cook your food when you are on a trip without the use of fuel canisters, thus no harmful emissions being released. As fuel, you can either use solidified alcohol, or leaves, twigs, and wood. It weighs only 1.12 pounds, so it will be a cinch to carry, while the compact
5.5-inch by 5.5-inch by 3.38-inch size makes it fit even in a crowded backpack.
Due to its superior ventilation, it is easy to fire it up, its high thermal efficiency enabling it to boil water in less than 3 minutes. As it is made of stainless steel, there is no reason to worry about its resilience to slight drops or other unwanted incidents. The secondary combustion it uses is useful as it keeps it burning for an additional 20 minutes solely on wood chips and dry firewood.
It comes in three different styles, style-1 being suitable for 1-2 people, style-2 being suitable for 1-2 people but boasting a higher profile, and style-3 being suitable for 4-6 people. All the more gladdening is the 2-year warranty provided by the manufacturing company for it. While the product is under this warranty agreement, it will be repaired or replaced completely for free, as long as you make sure to use it properly, as instructed in the accompanying manual.
PROS
- Comes in three different styles – #1 and #2 are suitable for 1-2 people, while #3 is suitable for 4-6 people
- Measures only 5.5” by 5.5” by 3.38”, fitting perfectly in a crowded backpack
- Its good ventilation makes it easy to fire up and ensures it provides a high thermal efficiency
- Cheap price makes it an accessible acquisition
CONS
- Not the best for serious cooking
- Some complained that it feels cheaply made
VERDICT
Accessible in terms of pricing and easy to use as it boasts a superior ventilation, the Canway is your go-to model for backpacking adventures. Best of all, its environmentally friendly design ensures no harmful emissions will be freed in the atmosphere when you cook your meals during camping trips.
11. Primus Classic Trail
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Specifications:
- Build material: Stainless steel
- Required fuel: Gas
- Time it takes to boil water: 5 minutes
- Included accessories: Nylon carry bag
- Dimensions: 2.2” x 4.9” x 4.9”
- Weight: 8 ounces
- Warranty: 30-day money back guarantee
If you want to save money and you are looking for a cheap alternative that will also offer performance, try the Primus and discover how efficient a small model can be. It works on gas and
can be attached to any regular gas canister, preferably a 230g one if you want to enjoy fire for 70 minutes.
It features a manual ignition meaning you have to open the valve and use a match, which could be a drawback if you can’t find one. Other than that, you will love the solid design with the 5” wide cooking platform that evenly distributes the heat. Thanks to the built-in windscreen that is actually the base of the legs, the flame will remain constant even in windy conditions.
Although not foldable, it is so small and lightweight that fitting it into a bag should not be an issue. It measures only 2.2” L x 4.9” W x 4.9” H and weighs only 8 ounces, being among the smallest models out there.
PROS
- Sturdy and safe design
- Compatible with any gas canister
- Easy to use
- Suitable for 1-3 people
- The flame lasts for around 60 minutes
CONS
- Not foldable
- Manual ignition
VERDICT
Primus Classic Trail is perfect for those who are looking for a cheaper alternative. However, the fact that it is available at a more affordable price doesn’t make it less efficient. It can boil water in approximately 5 minutes and it can easily handle windy conditions as it features a rigid windscreen. It has a compact design and works on gas. Nevertheless, there are some things that need improvement for a more convenient user experience.
12. OUTAD Windproof Foldable
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Specifications:
- Build material: Stainless steel
- Required fuel: Gas
- Time it takes to boil water: 2 and a half minutes
- Included accessories: Carry case
- Dimensions: 4.2” x 5.3” x 5.4”
- Weight: 9.7 ounces
- Warranty: 30-day money back guarantee
OUTAD provides a safe and sturdy product that is incredibly small but also durable and safe to use. The entire item measures no more than 4.2 x 5.3 x 5.4 inches and
weighs around 9.7 ounces , being the perfect thing to carry around on your trips or when you want to cook something outdoors. In addition,
it can be folded to palm-size and includes a carrying case that makes transportation easier so you won’t have to worry about a thing.
Another detail that matters is its performance in igniting fast and ensuring a constant and powerful flame. The OUTAD scores great points due to the high-density 13.8” gas line with a Lindal valve connection that sends gas to the igniter for quick ignition. Worry not about safety as the valve is perfectly sealed to prevent gas leaks. Additionally, there is a 360-degree wind deflector that protects the flame of wind of over 40 mph so you can use it in any weather conditions.
The flame is so strong that it can boil a liter of water in 2.5 minutes, being among the fastest and most powerful models available. The manufacturer trusts their product so much that they provide a money-back warranty in case the customer is not satisfied with the performance, case in which they either refund the money or replace the defective item.
PROS
- Safety gas valve
- Wind deflector to protect the flame
- Can withstand winds of 45 MPH
- Fast boiling time
- Compact shape and size
CONS
- Not as lightweight as most camping stoves
- Low fire power
VERDICT
It works on gas and to prevent any possible damage it features a safety valve. Moreover, even if there’s wind, the wind deflector does a wonderful job as the flame is well-protected. One liter of water is boiled in 2 and a half minutes, which is quite impressive. Unfortunately, it doesn’t come with a warranty, but you can return it within 30 day from the date of purchase.
13. Lixada Titanium
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Specifications:
- Build material: Titanium
- Required fuel: No fuel canisters required, works with wood
- Time it takes to boil water: N/A
- Included accessories: Carry pouch
- Dimensions: 4.9” x 4.9” x 6.3”
- Weight: 10.2 ounces
- Warranty: Satisfaction guarantee
While it is indeed convenient to use from numerous points of view, the fact that it requires wood, twigs, or branches to boil water and heat up your food disadvantages it greatly. However, considering the
small asking price for it, it’s safe to say that it is a smart acquisition to go for. Probably its main highlight is the fact that it is made of titanium, a durable material that ensures years of use while keeping it lightweight.
As a matter of fact, as it weighs only 10.2 ounces, you won’t even feel it in your backpack as you carry it during your trips through the mountains. Another convenient design aspect is its size that ensures it won’t take up much space either – it measures 4.9 inches by 4.9 inches by 6.3 inches.
Due to the fact that it doesn’t require gas to run, it is an environmentally option to go for. In terms of efficiency, due to the wide design of the opening, you can rely on it to deliver intense flames to heat up your food quickly. This wide opening also makes it a lot more convenient to add wood whenever needed. Another interesting element is the cross-stand trivet it features that provides a stable platform for cooking, regardless of the size of the pot you place on it.
PROS
- Wide design of the opening provides a high burning efficiency
- Easy to use
- Comes at a cheap price
CONS
- Less convenient to use as it requires wood to burn
- Not reliable in the long run
VERDICT
Although it is less convenient than other entries in our top, the lightweight and compact design, as well as the cheap asking price make up for this flaw. Add to these elements the fact that it is made with a strong material, titanium to be more precise, and you have a dependable product in front of you.
Buying Guide
Just because you go backpacking with friends, it doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy a hot meal before you go to sleep or a warm coffee in the morning. Of course, for you to enjoy these things,
you need a good quality camping stove by your side.
If you are the type of person who goes on adventurous trips often and you want to have a great product at your disposal to use when you need to prepare various foods or simply reheat them, then check out the following lines. Here, we will show you what are the important specs and features to look for.
Portability
When you go on a camping trip with friends, you need to carry as little weight with you as possible. The hiking backpack can carry large amounts of weight, but you shouldn’t push your limits when it comes to carrying it, though.
This is the reason why it’s mandatory to pay attention to the weight and overall portability, choosing one that is easy and convenient to carry in order to prevent having a tough time getting to the spot where you set up your tent.
Boil Time
If you want to have a unit that is as efficient as possible by your side, the boil time is the spec that you must pay attention to when making the purchase. Of course, the boil time differs depending on the type of model that you’re using, so it’s essential for you to know how each type works.
Integrated canister system models are the fastest when it comes to boiling water and the most efficient due to the fact that they use minimal fuel. Canister models boil the water quick and they’re good at simmering as well. Liquid-fuel models might have varying simmering abilities , but they are able to boil the water quick even if it’s really cold outside. Last but not least, alternate-fuel models might be slower, but they are highly effective at boiling water nonetheless.
Burn Time
If you go with a fuel operated model, then you have to look at the burn time as well. The burn time represents how long it will burn given a certain amount of fuel. The longer the burn time is, the better as it shows that it will work for a long amount of time.
Push-Button Ignition
A feature that is very important and that you definitely have to look for is for it to have push-button ignition. This type of ignition is typical for canister-fuel models, and it is essential due to the fact that it allows you to use it even if you don’t have matches or a lighter. If you have been on camping trips often, you know how easy it is for matches to get lost or wet, so it’s easy to see why this feature is so important.
Stabilizers
Another feature that is definitely worth looking for is for it to have stabilizers that will get attached to the bottom , reducing the chance for it to tip over. Some models come with stabilizers, while others require you to purchase them separately. Pay attention to this aspect and buy them separately if they’re not included in the package to ensure complete safety while using it.
Types
You might think that they are no biggie and that picking one is just a matter of size but you must know that there are a few types that differ in the way they are fueled. While your home stove can only work with gas, be it natural or propane, note that
camping models can work on 5 types of fuel , as follows:
-
Solid fuel stove
They use tablets of fuel that light on fire and are very easy to use and incredibly cheap. However, the biggest drawback is that you can’t control the flame, you can only add more tablets to increase the intensity. Furthermore, the solid fuel is a little messy and the pots will come out greasy and hard to clean.
-
Gas cartridge stove
The second type and also the most popular uses gas cartridges that can be replaced when they are emptied. You will find it very easy to use and control and the flame is very strong so you can boil water in minutes. The disadvantages are that the cartridges are rather bulky and you can’t use a windscreen because they might explode if overheated.
-
Liquid fuel stove
These work on alcohol that is known to ignite in a blink and they are very cheap considering they work on plain alcohol. The downsides are that you can hardly control the flame and it’s quite unpleasant to travel with a bottle of alcohol in your backpack. Additionally, the flame doesn’t last for long and you have to keep adding alcohol, which can be tricky.
-
Pressurized liquid fuel stove
With this type, you have plenty of fuel options because you can find fuel cans with white gas, kerosene, diesel, or unleaded gasoline. It’s one of the easiest to use and control and you will have an intense and constant flame. The problem is with the big size that can be hard to fit in a backpack. Additionally, your hands might stink after using it and you will also get some bad odors in the air.
-
Alternative fuel stove
The last type is the innovative model that works on alternative fuel, usually wood. The most high-tech models even let you charge your phone using the energy created, which is great considering that hiking doesn’t offer too much electricity.
How to Get the Most of Your Fuel Canister
If you run out of gas canisters at home, there is no panic because you can always go and buy a new one but things are more complicated if you run out of fuel in the middle of the woods while cooking dinner. To make sure you never get in that situation, here are a few tricks to help you make the most of your fuel canister.
-
Keep it warm
If the temperatures go below zero, make sure you prevent the fuel from freezing so you won’t have trouble using it completely. Keep it in your sleeping bag or wrap it in an insulated jacket to ensure it stays warm and ready to be used. If you have two canisters, keep both warm so when you will swap them, you will have a warm replacement.
-
Place it on a warm surface
If you place the canister directly on the cold ground, it will become cold as well and it will be harder to maintain a flame. Therefore, place a sort of a barrier on the ground like a piece of cardboard or metal that will keep it from getting cold.
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Deflect the wind
A strong wind can turn off your flame and make using the stove very difficult. Even the mildest wind can triple the fuel usage while cooking a meal so it’s best to build a wind barrier by placing rocks like a wall around it.
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Don’t boil water
When preparing drinks, don’t bring the water very close to the boiling point only to let it cool off afterward. Slightly warm your water to the temperature that you can actually drink it at so you won’t have to add cold water to cool it off.
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Soak the food
If you are planning on cooking foods like pasta, beans, or rice, soak it in water before boiling it so it will get softer and you will reduce the boiling time. A pre-soaked portion of rice or pasta will require less cooking time so you will save on fuel.
Frequently Asked Questions
?Can the flame be controlled?
Yes, many of the models that we have mentioned have a valve control which in turns controlls the flame.
?Can I boil water with it?
Yes, you can boil almost any non-hazardous liquid without risking damaging the product. However, we do not recommend that you boil things with it every day.
?Are they bulky?
The majority of the items are foldable so it will not take up a lot of space in your backpack. However a foldable model is more expensive.
Conclusion
When you pack for a trip in the middle of nature, there are quite a few items you must cross off the list. While some are obvious even to the first-time hiker, like the 4-season tent that provides with shelter all year long, others, like the camping stove, aren’t all that obvious picks for the inexperienced. Here, we have rounded up the stoves you need for your trip to enjoy fresh hot coffee in the morning or to prepare food just as you would at home, picks that we are sure will serve you for years to come.
Best Overall:
Solo Stove Lite
As it takes the top spot, it’s easy to figure out that the Solo Stove Lite excels from all perspectives. First and foremost, we must praise the design it boasts as the holes on the bottom help increase airflow for optimal performance.
It doesn’t require gas to work but rather wood, sticks, pinecones, or leaves, which adds to its desirability seeing how you don’t have to carry fuel with you and think about the schematics of the trip too much to ensure safety. Moreover, this makes it a more Eco-friendly option for campers who are conscious about their impact on the environment.
Editor’s Choice:
Ohuhu Portable Wood Burning Camping
Our pick, the Ohuhu stove, works on wood, leaves, pinecones, or twigs, rather than gas. This aspect impressed us greatly as, just like our top pick, it is a considerably safer and more Eco-friendly stove to pack when you go camping. On average, it takes approximately 4 minutes to boil water with it, so not much time is lost when you need to cook. Furthermore, it is so light that you won’t even feel the difference when you store it in the backpack.
Best Low-Budget Backpacking Stove:
Canway Camping Stove
Not only is the Canway the go-to budget pick for those who are short on cash yet still want to make a quality acquisition, but it doesn’t actually sacrifice much in the quality department to remain so cheap. As a matter of fact, it’s quite impressive considering that it takes only 3 minutes to boil water with it. Furthermore, it comes with 2-year backing on the manufacturer’s part, so if there are issues with it, you are covered and it won’t cost you a dime to solve the situation.
Best Backpacking Stove for Cold Weather:
MSR MicroRocket
If you find yourself more often than not camping in areas where temperatures are low or you simply prefer to go backpacking when the cold weather strikes, then the MSR MicroRocket is what you need. Weather is crucial when it comes to choosing a stove as it can lead to it not functioning properly, so if you are a fan of cold weather, the only way you will enjoy your meals in peace is with this entry.
Best Backpacking Stove for Car Camping:
Odoland Camping Cookware
Small-sized, sleek, and easy to use, the Odoland mini stove is a propane gas model that makes for a smart pick if you are a car camping fan. Its shock-proof design ensures it can take a tumble like a pro, but while the build is strong, it doesn’t add to its weight that much. Moreover, it’s quite easy to clean and care for, so using it isn’t too big of a hassle.
Best Backpacking Stove for Trekking:
OutSmart Ultralight Titanium
What makes the OutSmart perfect for trekking is that it weighs a mere 0.8 ounces. You won’t even feel that you’re carrying with you! Additionally, it is among the most proficient models when it comes to performance as it maintains an even flame distribution throughout so that your meals are prepared to perfection, and takes only 2 minutes to boil water.