Gas or Liquid Fuel Stove?

The first decision is choosing between a gas stove and a liquid fuel stove. Both have advantages, depending on where you plan to use them.

Gas camping stoves are lightweight, easy to use and require minimal maintenance. They light quickly without priming and offer excellent flame control, making them ideal for backpacking, camping and cooking meals that need simmering.

However, gas canisters can be less effective in very cold conditions or at high altitude. Fuel availability can also be an issue when travelling internationally.

Liquid fuel stoves use a refillable fuel bottle and are particularly suited to winter camping, mountaineering and long expeditions. They generally perform well in cold temperatures and at altitude, while refillable bottles make it easier to monitor your remaining fuel.

The drawbacks include additional weight, regular maintenance and the need to prime the stove before use.

Which Type of Camping Stove Do I Need?

Different camping stoves are designed for different outdoor activities.

Integrated Canister Stoves

Integrated cooking systems combine a burner with an insulated cooking pot and lid. They are designed to boil water quickly and efficiently, making them popular with backpackers preparing dehydrated meals or hot drinks.

They are compact and convenient, although their taller design can be less stable than other stove types.

Remote Canister Stoves

Remote canister stoves connect the fuel canister to the burner using a hose. They offer excellent stability and can accommodate larger pans, making them a good choice for group camping and backpacking.

Some models allow the canister to be inverted for improved performance in colder weather.

Liquid Fuel and Multi-Fuel Stoves

Liquid fuel and multi-fuel camping stoves are designed for challenging conditions. Some models can burn different fuels, including petrol and other liquid fuels, making them useful for remote expeditions and international travel.

They are generally heavier than gas stoves but offer excellent versatility when fuel availability is limited.

Choosing the Right Stove Fuel

Gas canisters commonly contain propane, butane, isobutane or a mixture of gases.

Propane performs well in cold weather but can add weight. Butane is lightweight and suitable for milder conditions, while isobutane offers better cold-weather performance than standard butane.

For winter camping and mountaineering, always check the manufacturer's recommended operating temperatures and fuel requirements.

Other options include solid fuel, alcohol and wood-burning camping stoves. These can be lightweight and inexpensive, but they may take longer to boil water and offer less cooking control.

What Else Should I Consider?

Think about how many people you will be cooking for, the size of your pans and whether you need to simmer meals or simply boil water.

For backpacking, weight and pack size are important. For family camping, stability and cooking space may be more useful.

If you are heading into winter conditions, choose a stove that is easy to operate while wearing gloves and offers dependable performance in low temperatures.

Camping Stove Top Tips

Find Your Perfect Camping Stove

From lightweight gas stoves for backpacking to powerful multi-fuel models for winter expeditions, the right camping stove can make all the difference to your outdoor cooking experience.

Explore the range of camping stoves at The Climbers Shop or speak to our experienced team for advice on choosing the best stove for your next adventure.