Choosing A Camping Stove - BackwoodCampingSupplies.com

Choosing the Right Camping Stove

Camping stoves are categorized by purpose: backpacking or family camping, and type of fuel required for operation: gas, propane, liquid, or canister. Understanding the differences between the categories and types of fuel is helpful in determining what camping stove will fit your particular needs.

Camping stoves are designed to use specific types of fuel: propane, white gas, butane/propane mix, unleaded gasoline, and kerosene.

The propane cylinder is by far the most widely used type of fuel for camping stoves, because it is so convenient and available. It is very reliable and provides steady output. It is not the optimum fuel for extremely cold weather, and operates less effectively than liquid fuels in sub-freezing weather.
White gas is great for cold weather and high altitude camping, as it burns hot even at subzero temperatures. A drop in the temperature does not affect fuel output; however, occasional priming is required to maintain pressure in the fuel tank. White gas is economical and easily available.
Propane/Butane mix canisters are lightweight and easy to uses. This type of fuel is ideal for mild-weather backpacking.

Backpacking stoves are small and lightweight, as their purpose is to permit easy transport in a backpack while hiking or cycling long distances. Since backpacking stoves are small, they usually only have one hob of moderate size, and the fuel canister is generally small. This type of stove is used primarily for heating a very basic meal. If the size and weight of your camping stove were of high importance, you would most likely choose a backpacking stove.

Family camping stoves are larger than backpacking stoves, and can have as many three hobs or burners. These stoves are designed with family cooking in mind, so of course there are more burners and a larger gas canister. Some family camping stoves even have grills and other attachments available. If weight is not a factor in choosing your camping stove, you will probably want the convenience and versatility of a family camping stove.

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