Camping Stoves
How to Choose a Camping Stove
Cooking outdoors is one of the simple joys of camping. There’s just something about preparing a warm meal under the stars or brewing your morning coffee to the sound of birdsong. But to make that experience easy and enjoyable, you’ll need the right gear—starting with a good camping gas stove.
Choosing the perfect stove isn’t always straightforward. With so many models out there, from ultralight backpacking stoves to full-size double burners, it can be tough to know where to begin. This guide will walk you through everything you need to consider so you can cook up your next camping meal with confidence.
1. Decide on Your Camping Style
The type of camping you do plays a huge role in the kind of stove you’ll need.
Backpacking: If you’re hiking long distances and carrying all your gear, weight and packability matter most. Look for compact, lightweight stoves that use small gas canisters and are easy to set up.
Car Camping: When you’re driving straight to your campsite, you can afford to bring heavier, bulkier gear. Two-burner stoves or tabletop models offer more cooking space and versatility.
Overlanding/Van Life: These setups often allow for larger stoves with more advanced features, like wind screens, simmer control, or integrated grills.
2. Choose the Right Fuel Type
Camping gas stoves typically use one of three fuel types:
Butane: Lightweight and good for mild weather. Butane can struggle in cold temperatures and high altitudes.
Propane: A popular choice for car campers. Propane burns well in a variety of conditions and is available in large and small canisters.
Isobutane/Propane Mix: Common in canister-style backpacking stoves, this blend performs well in colder conditions and is usually more efficient.
Make sure your stove is compatible with the type of fuel you plan to use, and consider availability if you’re heading to remote areas.
3. Consider Burner Options
The number and type of burners determine how much you can cook at once.
Single Burner Stoves: Great for solo campers or backpackers. These are ultra-light and minimalist but still capable of boiling water or cooking basic meals.
Double Burner Stoves: Perfect for families or anyone who wants to cook multiple dishes at once. These often resemble a compact version of a home stovetop.
Integrated Cooking Systems: These include built-in pots or wind protection and are designed for quick meals and hot drinks, often favored by backpackers.
4. Check for Cooking Power (BTUs)
BTU (British Thermal Unit) ratings give you an idea of how powerful a stove is. A higher BTU means more heat output, which can lead to faster cooking times. However, more power isn’t always better—especially if you’re looking for simmer control or fuel efficiency.
Backpacking stoves tend to have lower BTUs (2,000–10,000).
Car camping stoves can range from 10,000–20,000+ BTUs per burner.
5. Look for Convenience Features
Some stoves come with helpful extras that improve usability:
Piezo Ignition: Push-button start without matches or a lighter.
Wind Screens: Shields flames for more efficient cooking.
Adjustable Flame Control: Allows you to simmer rather than just boil everything.
Sturdy Base or Legs: Helps keep your stove stable on uneven ground.
6. Don’t Forget Portability and Pack Size
Backpackers will want a stove that packs down small and fits easily into a rucksack. Car campers can prioritize foldable legs or carrying handles for easier transport. Some stoves also come in cases or have built-in handles, which are great for keeping things organized and safe during travel.
Final Thoughts
The right camping gas stove can take your outdoor meals from basic to gourmet. Start by thinking about how and where you camp, then narrow it down based on fuel type, size, and cooking power. Whether you’re boiling noodles on a solo trek or grilling burgers at the campsite with friends, there’s a stove out there to match your adventure.
Now that you know what to look for, it’s time to pick your stove, pack your gear, and get cooking—outdoors style’
Don’t forget to read our guide on campfire cooking
