As a backpacker, having a reliable and portable cookstove is essential for preparing meals on the go. Whether you’re backpacking through the wilderness or car camping at a nearby state park, a good cookstove can make all the difference in your outdoor culinary experience.
Here are the top five portable cookstoves for backpacking:
- Jetboil MiniMo Cooking System: This stove is a top pick for backpacking due to its compact size and lightweight design. It weighs just over a pound and packs down small, making it easy to pack in your backpack. The MiniMo also boasts a fuel-efficient burner that boils water in just over two minutes, making it perfect for quickly preparing hot beverages or meals.
- MSR PocketRocket 2 Ultralight Stove: The PocketRocket 2 is another highly rated cookstove for backpacking. It weighs just over two ounces and has a compact design, making it easy to pack in your backpack. The stove also has a stable base for cooking, and boils water in just over three minutes.
- Snow Peak GigaPower Manual Stove: The GigaPower is a lightweight and compact cookstove that is perfect for backpacking. It has a high-performance burner that boils water quickly and is easy to light, making it a convenient choice for preparing meals on the go.
- Primus Lite+ Stove: The Primus Lite+ is a lightweight, compact, and easy-to-use cookstove that is suitable for backpacking. It has a high-performance burner that boils water in just over three minutes and a stable base for cooking.
- Ohuhu Camping Stove: This stove is lightweight and compact, making it suitable for backpacking. It has a durable stainless steel construction and a stable base for cooking. The stove also has an adjustable flame control and a built-in piezo ignition system for easy lighting. It is compatible with a variety of fuel types, including butane, propane, and isobutane.
Types of fuel
There are a few different fuel options for portable cookstoves, and the best choice for you will depend on your needs and preferences. Here are some common fuel options:
- White gas: White gas, also known as naphtha, is a clean-burning fuel that is suitable for use in portable cookstoves. It is a popular choice for backpacking stoves because it is widely available and has a high energy content, which means that it burns hot and efficiently.
- Propane: Propane is another common fuel for portable cookstoves. It is easy to find and has a high energy content, making it a reliable choice for cooking. Some portable cookstoves are designed to use small, disposable propane canisters, while others can be used with larger propane tanks.
- Butane: Butane is another fuel option for portable cookstoves. It is widely available and burns cleanly, but it has a lower energy content than propane or white gas. This means that it may not be as efficient for cooking as other fuel options.
- Isopropane: Isopropane is a fuel that is similar to propane, but it has a higher energy content and a lower boiling point. This makes it a good choice for use in portable cookstoves in cold weather.
When choosing a fuel for your portable cookstove, consider the availability and cost of the fuel, as well as the performance and efficiency of the stove.
Safety tips
Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when using a portable cookstove for backpacking:
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions: Make sure to read and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer of your cookstove. This will help you to use the stove safely and efficiently.
- Use the stove in a well-ventilated area: Portable cookstoves produce combustion gases that can be harmful if inhaled. Make sure to use the stove in a well-ventilated area to allow the gases to dissipate.
- Keep the stove away from flammable materials: Do not place the stove near flammable materials, such as dry leaves or grass. Keep a safe distance between the stove and any flammable materials to prevent accidental fires.
- Use the stove on a stable surface: Make sure to set the stove up on a stable and level surface to prevent it from tipping over.
- Keep the fuel away from heat sources: Make sure to store the fuel for your stove in a cool, dry place away from heat sources. Do not store the fuel near the stove or in direct sunlight.
- Extinguish the stove properly: When you are finished cooking, make sure to turn off the stove and allow it to cool down before packing it away. Make sure that the stove is completely extinguished before leaving the area or going to sleep.
By following these safety tips, you can help to prevent accidents and ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable backpacking trip.
When shopping for a portable cookstove for backpacking, be sure to consider the stove’s weight, size, and boiling time. Look for a stove that is lightweight, compact, and easy to use, and has a reliable burner that boils water quickly. With these factors in mind, you’ll be able to find the perfect cookstove for your backpacking adventures.
Check out the day camp article or video and the stove I chose for this adventure.
