Camping stoves are a crucial part of any good camping trip, especially when going on a hike. They provide the means to cook a hot, nourishing meal and can also be used to boil water for a hot drink or to sanitize drinking water. But because of their lightweight portability, a camping stove may not be the one-size-fits-all solution for all hikers.
When setting out to find the right camping stove for your next hiking trip, it’s important to consider a few factors. The first question to ask yourself is what type of fuel will you use? Will you be cooking or warming food for more than one person? What size and weight is ideal for you? What temperature control do you need? And should you go with a standalone model or a combination model?
Type of Fuel
The most common types of fuel for camping stoves are butane and propane. Both are lightweight and easy to use, but each has its strengths and weaknesses. Propane tanks typically last longer and are relatively inexpensive, but they generally can be a little more difficult to find in some rural areas. Butane is easy to find and generally comes in small, easy-to-carry cylinders, but these cylinders can be used up rather quickly when cooking on a higher flame.
If you really want to increase portability, you might also consider an alcohol stove. These generally have the advantage of being very lightweight and are readily available anywhere, but they also tend to have fewer flame settings and generally produce a lower level of heat.
Cooking or Warming for More Than One?
If you plan on cooking or warming food for more than one person, then you’ll want to think about the size of the camping stove. You won’t need the biggest camping stove out there, but an average-sized one will probably serve you and your group well. If you’re a solo hiker and all about the lightest possible gear, then a small, lightweight camping stove that stows away nicely in your pack might be a better option.
Size and Weight
If you’re a serious long-distance hiker, then weight is always a concern. So if you want a camping stove with the lightest possible weight, then you’ll probably want to go for a standalone camping stove. These kinds of camping stoves typically weigh less than a pound, but they also tend to be less powerful and have fewer features than the larger combination models. On the other hand, if you want to carry a few extra ounces for more cooking power and features, then a combination camping stove might be the best option for you.
Temperature Control
A key consideration when shopping for a camping stove is temperature control. Some camping stoves have a greater range of heat settings than others, which can be helpful for fine-tuning the cooking process when trying to prepare a gourmet meal, or for warming a cup of soup. If you’re just going to be using it to boil water, then a simple camping stove with only one heat setting should be fine.
Standalone vs. Combination Models
In addition to the considerations of fuel, cooking for more than one, size and weight, and temperature control, it’s also important to consider whether you want a standalone camping stove or a combination model. Standalone camping stoves are generally more lightweight and less expensive, but they may not be quite as powerful as the larger combination models. Conversely, combination models usually have more features and a greater range of heat settings, but they may weigh more and be more expensive.
Conclusion
When getting ready for a hiking trip, it’s important to make sure that you have the right gear for the job. A camping stove is an invaluable piece of gear for any hiker, but it’s also important to make sure that you have the right one for your particular needs. By considering the type of fuel, cooking or warming for more than one, size and weight, temperature control, and standalone versus combination camping stoves, you should be able to find the right camping stove for your next hiking trip.