Camping Stove Buying Guide

Choosing the Right Camping Stove

Whether you're heading off on a weekend camping trip, walking a long-distance trail or planning a remote expedition, a reliable camping stove can make a significant difference to your outdoor experience.

Choosing the right stove involves more than finding the lightest or most powerful model. Fuel availability, cooking performance, packed weight, weather conditions and the number of people you're cooking for all influence which stove will suit your needs.

Before choosing a camping stove, ask yourself:

• Will I be carrying the stove in a rucksack or transporting it to a campsite?
• Am I cooking for one person, a couple or a larger group?
• Will I mainly boil water or prepare complete meals?
• What temperatures and weather conditions am I likely to encounter?
• Will suitable fuel be readily available at my destination?
• How long will I be away from shops or other resupply points?
• Are there any restrictions on stove types or open flames where I'm travelling?

The main options are gas stoves, liquid-fuel and multifuel stoves, and solid-fuel or wood-burning stoves. Each has advantages and limitations.

Types of Camping Stoves

Gas Camping Stoves

Gas stoves are among the most popular choices for camping and backpacking. They use fuel stored in a sealed canister, making them relatively clean, convenient and straightforward to operate.

Most offer immediate heat and adjustable flame control, making them suitable for everything from boiling water to preparing simple meals.

Advantages of Gas Stoves

• Quick and straightforward to light.
• Good flame control on many models.
• Relatively clean burning with little residue.
• Generally require limited maintenance.
• Available in lightweight backpacking and larger campsite designs.
• No need to pour or transfer liquid fuel during normal use.

Disadvantages of Gas Stoves

• Require a compatible gas canister.
• Canister availability varies between countries and destinations.
• Performance may decline in cold conditions.
• Empty canisters must be carried out and disposed of responsibly.
• Some lightweight designs have limited stability with large cookware.

Gas stoves are an excellent starting point for many outdoor users, but the burner design and canister connection are just as important as the fuel itself.

Top-Mounted Gas Stoves

Top-mounted stoves attach directly to a compatible gas canister, with the cooking pot positioned above the burner.

They are popular with backpackers because they can be extremely compact and lightweight.

However, the combined height of the canister, burner and cookware can create a relatively tall cooking system. This makes careful positioning particularly important on uneven ground.

Best suited to: Solo backpacking, lightweight trips, hot drinks and simple meals prepared in appropriately sized cookware.

Remote-Canister Gas Stoves

Remote-canister stoves connect the burner to a gas canister using a fuel hose. This allows the burner to sit lower to the ground.

The lower cooking position can improve stability and may make these stoves more practical for larger pans or more demanding cooking.

Some models incorporate fuel preheating systems or other features designed to improve cold-weather performance.

Important: Only invert a gas canister or use it in a liquid-feed configuration if the specific stove is designed and approved for that purpose. Incorrect use can cause dangerous flare-ups.

Best suited to: Backpackers wanting a lower cooking position, larger cookware or a system designed for more challenging conditions.

Integrated Stove Systems

Integrated stove systems combine a burner with a purpose-designed cooking vessel. Many incorporate a heat exchanger to improve the transfer of heat into the water or food.

These systems are particularly popular for rapidly boiling water for hot drinks, dehydrated meals and lightweight backpacking food.

Some are designed so that the burner, accessories and fuel canister pack neatly inside the cooking pot.

Advantages of Integrated Systems

• Compact storage and convenient packing.
• Efficient water heating in suitable conditions.
• Matched burner and cookware design.
• Convenient for hot drinks and dehydrated meals.

Limitations of Integrated Systems

• Some are less suitable for frying or slow simmering.
• Cookware compatibility may be limited.
• Individual components can be more specialised.
• The complete system may be heavier than a basic burner and lightweight pot.

Best suited to: Backpackers who mainly need to boil water quickly and efficiently.

Liquid-Fuel and Multifuel Camping Stoves

Liquid-fuel stoves use fuel stored in a separate container, often a pressurised bottle. Multifuel stoves are designed to operate with more than one approved fuel type, depending on the model.

Some multifuel systems can use particular liquid fuels and compatible gas canisters, while others are restricted to specified liquid fuels.

Never assume that a multifuel stove can burn any available fuel. Always check the manufacturer's approved fuel list and operating instructions.

Advantages of Multifuel Stoves

• Greater fuel flexibility on compatible models.
• Useful for international travel and remote expeditions.
• Suitable designs can perform well in demanding cold conditions.
• Refillable fuel bottles reduce dependence on disposable canisters.
• Some models are designed for extended and intensive use.

Disadvantages of Multifuel Stoves

• Generally more complicated to operate than basic gas stoves.
• May require priming and manual pressurisation.
• Require periodic cleaning and maintenance.
• Liquid fuels must be handled and stored carefully.
• Some fuels produce soot, odours or additional residue.

For occasional summer camping, the additional complexity may offer little advantage. For remote travel, long expeditions or demanding winter conditions, however, fuel flexibility can be particularly valuable.

Best suited to: Expedition use, remote travel and situations where compatible gas canisters may be difficult to obtain.

Solid-Fuel and Wood-Burning Stoves

Solid-fuel stoves use manufactured fuel tablets or other approved solid fuels. Wood-burning camping stoves are designed to burn suitable natural materials, such as small dry twigs.

These stoves often have simple construction and relatively few moving parts.

Advantages

• Simple designs with limited mechanical complexity.
• Compact options suitable for emergency kits.
• No pressurised gas canister required.
• Some wood-burning designs can use suitable locally available fuel where collection is permitted.

Disadvantages

• Flame control may be limited.
• Some fuels produce smoke, soot or residue.
• Cooking performance can be affected by wind and wet conditions.
• Wood-burning models depend on suitable dry fuel being available.
• Open-flame restrictions may prohibit their use.

Important: Check local fire restrictions and landowner rules before using wood-burning equipment. Never damage living vegetation or assume that collecting natural fuel is permitted.

Best suited to: Simple backup cooking arrangements or situations where their fuel and use are appropriate.

Choosing a Camping Stove for Different Conditions

Camping Stoves for Cold Weather

Cold temperatures can affect stove performance, particularly with gas canisters.

Canister gas must vaporise to feed many conventional burners. As temperatures fall, the pressure inside the canister can decrease, reducing performance.

The fuel mixture, canister temperature and stove design all influence how well the system operates.

Some remote-canister stoves are specifically designed for cold-weather use, while suitable liquid-fuel stoves are often chosen for demanding winter expeditions.

Check the manufacturer's stated operating conditions and use only approved fuel arrangements. Never attempt to warm a gas canister with an open flame or expose it to excessive heat.

Using Camping Stoves at Altitude

At higher elevations, lower atmospheric pressure and colder conditions can affect cooking and stove operation.

Water boils at a lower temperature as altitude increases, which can mean longer cooking times for certain foods.

Fuel type, stove design, temperature and wind exposure all influence performance.

For high-altitude expeditions, choose equipment with a suitable operating specification rather than assuming that a stove designed for ordinary campsite use will perform identically in extreme conditions.

Camping Stoves for Windy Conditions

Wind can reduce heating efficiency, increase fuel consumption and make cooking more difficult.

Some stoves incorporate burner protection or purpose-designed wind management features.

However, windshields must be used carefully.

Never surround a gas canister with a windshield in a way that causes it to overheat. Use only wind protection arrangements approved by the stove manufacturer.

Position your stove on stable ground in a suitable outdoor location, away from flammable materials.

What Size Camping Stove Do You Need?

The number of people you're cooking for has a major influence on stove selection.

A small backpacking burner may be ideal for heating water for one person but unsuitable for supporting a large cooking pot.

Consider:

• The number of people being catered for.
• The size and weight of your cookware.
• The stability of the stove and pan supports.
• How quickly you need to heat food or water.
• Whether you need one burner or several.
• The amount of fuel required.

Always follow the manufacturer's limits for cookware diameter and weight.

Boiling Water or Cooking Complete Meals?

Think carefully about the food you intend to prepare.

If you mainly need hot water for drinks and dehydrated meals, a compact burner or integrated stove system may be ideal.

If you prefer cooking fresh meals, consider a stove with:

• Good flame adjustment.
• Reliable simmer control.
• Stable and appropriately sized pan supports.
• Compatibility with different cookware.
• Suitable heat distribution for the food being prepared.

A stove designed for fast boiling is not necessarily the best option for frying, simmering or preparing more elaborate meals.

Stove Weight Versus Total Cooking System Weight

For backpackers, stove weight is important, but the burner itself is only one part of the complete cooking system.

Consider the combined weight of:

• The stove or burner.
• Fuel and fuel containers.
• Cooking pots and pans.
• Pot supports and compatible accessories.
• Ignition equipment.
• Any approved wind protection.

A particularly light burner may not provide the lightest overall setup if it uses more fuel or requires heavier cookware.

For longer journeys, fuel efficiency and the ability to obtain replacement fuel can be just as important as the weight of the stove itself.

Camping Stove Fuel When Travelling Abroad

If you're travelling internationally, research fuel availability before departure.

Different countries use different gas canister connection systems, and a fuel type commonly available in the UK may be difficult to find elsewhere.

Camping gas canisters and many stove fuels are prohibited from passenger aircraft. Check current airline and transport restrictions before travelling.

It may be necessary to purchase compatible fuel after arriving at your destination.

For more information about stove connections and compatibility, see our Primus Stove Valve and Adapter Guide.

Useful Camping Stove Accessories

Choosing suitable accessories can make your cooking setup more practical, stable and easier to maintain.

Depending on your stove, useful accessories may include:

• Canister Stands: Help provide additional stability for compatible top-mounted gas stoves.
• Fuel Bottles: Purpose-designed containers for compatible liquid-fuel stoves.
• Maintenance Kits: Replacement seals, cleaning tools and other manufacturer-approved components.
• Cooking Pots and Pans: Lightweight or larger cookware suited to your cooking needs.
• Pot Grips: Useful for safely handling cookware without permanent handles.
• Ignition Equipment: A lighter or suitable matches provide a backup if built-in ignition fails.
• Approved Wind Protection: Helps reduce the effects of wind when used according to the stove manufacturer's instructions.

Explore our camping stove accessories for compatible equipment.

Choosing the Correct Fuel Bottle

Liquid-fuel stoves require containers specifically designed for storing and, where applicable, pressurising stove fuel.

Never substitute an ordinary drinks bottle or unsuitable container.

Use a manufacturer-approved fuel bottle and keep it clearly distinguishable from drinking water containers.

Inspect caps, seals and connections regularly for wear or damage.

Lighting Your Camping Stove

Many modern camping stoves include piezo ignition, allowing the burner to be lit without a separate match or lighter.

However, ignition systems can fail, particularly after prolonged use or exposure to difficult conditions.

Carry a suitable backup ignition method and practise assembling, lighting and controlling your stove before relying on it during a trip.

Camping Stove Safety

Camping stoves produce extreme heat, open flames and potentially dangerous combustion gases. Safe operation is essential, regardless of the fuel type.

• Always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
• Use the stove outdoors on a stable, suitable surface.
• Keep tents, clothing and other flammable materials away from the burner.
• Check fuel connections and seals before lighting.
• Keep fuel containers away from excessive heat.
• Never leave a lit stove unattended.
• Keep children and pets away from operating stoves.
• Allow equipment to cool completely before packing it away.
• Observe local fire restrictions and campsite rules.

Carbon Monoxide: A Serious Danger

Never use a camping stove inside a tent, vehicle or other enclosed sleeping space.

Burning gas, liquid fuel, wood or solid fuel can produce carbon monoxide, a colourless, odourless and potentially fatal gas.

Opening a tent doorway or ventilation panel does not make it safe to operate a stove inside an enclosed shelter.

Camping stoves should also never be used as heaters.

Which Camping Stove Should You Choose?

There is no single camping stove that's best for every outdoor activity. The right choice depends on how you intend to use it.

• General Camping: A gas stove is often a convenient choice because of its simplicity and controllable heat.
• Lightweight Backpacking: A compact top-mounted burner or integrated stove system can minimise packed size.
• Cooking for Groups: Look for stable burners, appropriate pan supports and sufficient cooking capacity.
• Remote Expeditions: A suitable multifuel stove may offer useful flexibility when fuel availability is uncertain.
• Winter Camping: Choose a complete stove and fuel system designed for the temperatures expected.
• Emergency or Backup Use: A simple solid-fuel stove may be useful where its fuel and operation are suitable.

Rather than choosing a stove based on power output or boiling time alone, consider the complete system: fuel, cookware, stability, weight, reliability and maintenance.

With the right equipment and a little preparation, you'll be able to enjoy hot food and drinks safely and conveniently wherever your outdoor adventures take you.

Explore our gas camping stoves and camping stove accessories to find a setup that suits your needs.