Backcountry Basics: Stove Selection

Choosing the correct backpacking stove may seem like a daunting task, considering all the options that are available today. We’re here to help you sort through all the possibilities and help you find the right one. Important things to consider when selecting a backpacking stove are:  cooking location, group size, and what you intend to cook.  Some stoves are essentially designed to quickly and efficiently boil water, while other stoves allow more flexibility for the backcountry gourmet chefs.

Backpacking stoves are categorized by the type of fuel they use. The most common types of fuel are pressurized canister fuel, liquid fuel, alcohol, and wood/pellet/twig. Choosing the right backpacking stove can greatly enhance your outdoor cooking experience, and each style of stove has pros and cons.

Common Backpacking Stoves

 

• • • Canister Fuel Stoves
      • • • Stoves that are fueled with an isobutane-propane canister
        • • Canisters are interchangeable across stove brands (MSR, Jet Boil, Snow Peak, Primus etc.)
        • • Canisters are not refillable
        • • Easy to use with quick setup, lightweight, small and packable – most require little or no maintenance
        • Certain stoves will not perform as well at high altitude or colder temperatures
  • • Liquid Fuel Stoves
      • • • Variety of fuel types (white gas, kerosene, diesel, unleaded auto), though white gas is most prevalent
        • • Refillable
        • • Better in high altitude and low temperatures
        • • Great when using one stove for a group
        • Require more set up and can be a bit bulky
  • Wood/Pellet/Twig/Alcohol Stoves
    • • • Variety styles and manufacturers, including homemade DIY options
      • • Some styles are very small and inexpensive
      • • Alcohol stoves can be more dangerous while using
      • • Wood/Twig stoves may not be ideal when backpacking in certain environments/locations (desert, rain forest, high alpine…)
      • May be considered an open fuel source and may be prohibited in areas with fire restrictions or fire bans

Canister Fuel Stoves

Canister stoves are often sold as stand alone items, and can be used with any pot or pan. This makes them very universal, small, and lightweight. Canister stove systems require specialty pots and pans – for example, the MSR WindBurner and Reactor stove systems are not interchangeable, and a JetBoil pot won’t fit on a MSR stove. Stove systems can be heavier and bulkier than stand alone stoves, but they’re more efficient with better boil times, which can require you to carry less fuel. They also perform much better in windy conditions. Stove systems are typically designed to pack within themselves, making them very compact.

Canister stoves and canister stove systems are generally more user friendly because the canister is pre-pressurized and ready to go. The stoves themselves are very easy to set up and require little maintenance. Their small size is great for one or two people, but cooking for a larger group can be challenging.  Some canister stoves designed for larger groups (Wind Pro II, Whisperlite Universal, Windburner Group, Jet Boil Genesis). Canister fuels are known to lose efficiency at high altitude and colder environments, but stoves like the MSR Reactor series are designed specifically for these environments and conditions. Pressure regulated canister stoves are becoming more common and greatly increase performance in high altitude and colder environments.

Overall, canister stoves and canister stove systems are super adaptable. With all the different pots and pans options available for stove systems, they can be used to fry an egg or cook for a group, not just boil water. Pressure regulated canister stoves are efficient at altitudes and temperatures most people backpack in, and most non-pressure regulated stoves will also be more than sufficient most of the time. Ease of use and lack of maintenance make these great options for first time backpackers, but also a great option for seasoned trekkers.

Liquid Fuel Stoves

Liquid fuel stoves are known for their performance at high altitude and in cold temps. Pressure is added through the pump so loss of pressure is not an issue with these stoves. Liquid fuels can also be easier to obtain on international trips and some more versatile stove options can operate with multiple fuel types. Liquid fuel canisters are also refillable and can be reused for years. Many liquid fuel stoves are also known for their durability, particularly the MSR Whisperlite. It is quite common to see the  Whisperlite used by outfitters, guides, and outdoor education programs. Unlike canister stoves, liquid fuel stoves can be operated with a windscreen to improve combustion efficiency.

Alcohol and Alternative Fuel Stoves

Alcohol stoves are lightweight, simple, and eco-friendly options. They burn denatured alcohol or fuel-based alcohol, making them widely available and cost-effective. While they are slower to boil water, they are popular among ultralight backpackers due to their minimalistic design. Wood burning stoves utilize sticks, twigs, and other natural fuel sources found along the trail. They eliminate the need to carry fuel, and are cost-effective. However, they require more effort to gather fuel and are less efficient in wet conditions.

Backpacking stoves should be lightweight and compact, fitting easily into your backpack without adding excessive weight. Consider the stove’s size, collapsibility, and the space it occupies in your pack. Look for stoves that maximize fuel efficiency, ensuring longer burn times and fewer refills. This factor becomes crucial for longer backpacking trips where resupplying fuel may be challenging. Choose a stove that is easy to set up, ignite, and one you are comfortable maintaining. If you are looking to cook or go backcountry gourmet on the trail find a stove with stable pot supports and adjustable flame control. Evaluate the stove’s boil time, which indicates how quickly it can heat water or cook meals. Faster boil times can save fuel and valuable time on the trail.

Practice before your trip! Familiarize yourself with the stove’s setup, operation, and you feel comfortable maintaining. Practice lighting and adjusting the flame to ensure a hassle-free cooking experience in the backcountry. Follow proper safety precautions when using backpacking stoves. Set up your stove on a stable, non-flammable surface, and keep flammable materials away from the stove. Always use caution when handling hot surfaces and flames. Estimate your fuel needs and carry extra fuel as a backup. Unforeseen circumstances or delays may require additional fuel. Clean your stove after a trip to prevent clogs and maintain optimal performance. Check for any damage or worn-out parts before each trip, and carry necessary repair items or backup stoves if needed.

 

Meet the Author: Trystyn Molitor

Trystyn graduated from the University of Montana with degrees in Recreation Management, Resource Conservation, and Geographical Information Systems. A backpacker for over 20 years, he has hiked and explored some of the most remote places in the country. Trystyn also spent a number of years working for the United States Forest Service as a Wilderness Ranger.