Camping Stoves

Camping Stoves  

Camping stoves are great for generating a little extra heat while camping.  Knowing how to pick out a good one for your camping needs will save you some serious time and energy.  Take a look at our basic information and tips on how to choose a top notch camping stove. 

There are essentially two types of camping stoves: cartridge and liquid gas stoves. 

Cartridge Stoves 

Cartridge stoves are easy to use, cheaper, lighter and require less upkeep than liquid gas stoves.  However, they do not tend to work as well in windy conditions.  The usual features on most cartridge stoves are push button igniters, flame control features and self cleaning systems.  Their most common fuel sources tend to be either propane or butane gas.  These stoves are most preferred by backpackers or extended camping trips because of their lightweight design.   

Liquid Gas Stoves 

Liquid gas stoves provide a higher burning point and provide more cooking options.  They also are more reliable in extremely cold conditions.  Liquid gas stoves can operate using a number of different fuels including gasoline, alcohol, kerosene and white gas.  These stoves are preferred by car campers and tent campers camping close to their car because of the extra number of cooking options they offer. 

Weight, Prices and Manufacturers 

Whether you choose cartridge or liquid gas stoves both models will be found to weigh anywhere from a few ounces to under two pounds.  In addition, the prices of the models fall in a range from $35 to $150.  The higher end models will naturally tend to have additional features.  Popular manufacturers of camping stoves include: MSR, Brunton, NRS, Primus Outdoor, Jetboil, Vargo Titanium, Coleman, Snow Peak, and Camp Chef.  

Common Camping Stove Buying Tips 

1.  Choose a stove that has a back or windshield to it.  This will make it easier to use when it is windy. 

2.  Avoid using stove in tent if at all possible.  There is a heightened risk of a fire here. 

3.  Do not be concerned with altitude impacting your stove’s performance.  This really only becomes an issue if temperatures dip below freezing. 

4.  Test out your camping stove at home first.  Practice using and breaking down your camping stoves before going on your camping trip.  This will save you time and give you more confidence you can work it properly before heading into the field. 

5.  Choose models that have a cleaning or maintenance kit included.  These will help you keep the stove in shape for many years and come with the better models. 

6.  With cartridge stoves, be very leery of spills.  The good news is resealable cartridges help reduce the risk of leaking for cartridge stoves. 

Armed with this intel, you should be able to pick out a quality camping stove that can be used for many years to come.  If your camping functions will vary, do not be afraid to purchase both kinds to have when going on different types of camping trips.  You can even do your own test to decide for yourself which one is better. 

*For some information on camping lanterns, take a close look at Camping Lantern.