Do You Need a Stove for Backpacking?

If you’re going to be in the backcountry, there’s a lot you need to think about. If you don’t want to eat only granola bars or rely on foraging, you need to consider how you’re going to cook. This easy-to-read guide helps break down the different types of backpacking stoves so you have the information available to make the best decision for your backpacking trip.

What Is the Difference Between a Backpacking Stove and a Camping Stove?

Backpacking stoves are small, light, collapsible one-burner stoves. Camping stoves tend to be bigger and heavier than backpacking stoves. You can find gas stoves between one to three burners and use propane fuel bottles or other multi-fuel. This is what you’ll want if you’re staying in a campground, RV park, car camping, and other non-backpacking style trips.

What Backpacking Stove Should I Get?

There are a couple of things you want to consider when choosing a backpacking stove:

Altitude: Some fuel sources work better than others at a higher altitude.
Trip Length: When you’re backpacking, you must pack along your stove and fuel source. This can take up space and add weight to your pack. If you are going for ultralight backpacking or will be in the backcountry for an extended period, consider using an alternative fuel stove that doesn’t require fuel you have to pack in (and pack out the empties).

Type of Fuel Source

Canister Stoves: Choose between isobutane or propane canisters. Easy to use when backpacking. They’re quick to light. Priming is not necessary before lighting a canister stove. All the camper has to do is turn a valve, light a match or press a piezo igniter button. Look for a canister stove with a pressure regulator. This provides consistent heat output when cooking. Canister stoves are excellent for camping in cold weather and/or at high altitudes.

Integrated Canister Stove: Tall-profile cooking systems. The burner screws onto the fuel canister. A cooking pot is twisted on with a lid. However, integrated canister stoves are made to boil water quickly, not cook food. Handy for dehydrated foods and beverages, but somewhat limited in applications.

Liquid Fuel Stoves: Refillable liquid fuel bottles of white gas burn cleanly. Liquid fuel is a good choice when camping with a larger group. You may need to prime your stove system; however, they are a great option when backpacking at high altitudes and in cold weather.

Denatured Alcohol Stoves: An alcohol backpacking stove is a way to go for ultralight backpacking. However, some alcohol stoves may be for simmering or boiling water only.

Wood-Burning Stoves: Backpackers don’t need to bring fuel when using a wood-burning stove; you can use twigs and dry grass around you. This is ideal if you’re going on an extended backpacking trip in the backcountry where combustible material is readily available. Not ideal for areas above timberlines, very arid deserts, or areas that have imposed burn restrictions (that often don’t apply to other fuel types).

Solid Fuel Tablet Stoves: Another excellent option for ultralight backpackers. Some solid fuels are small enough to keep in your pocket.

Shop Backpacking Stoves at CampSaver!

At CampSaver, we have everything you need for a successful backpacking trip. We carry the best backpacking stove brands, such as Jetboil, Soto, and MSR. CampSaver also ensures that we have everything you need, including windscreens, fuel lines, extra fuel bottles, and more. So, if the worst should happen, you’re already prepared.

Speaking of being prepared, CampSaver has everything else you need for camping in the backcountry. Shop backpacking backs, backpacking tents, sleeping bags, and more! We even have food! CampSaver is your one-stop shop for everything outdoors, camping, climbing, and fishing! You name it; we’ve got it!

Be sure also to check out our guides; we’re constantly writing and publishing to get you the latest information, our favorite brands and products, and How-To’s! Learn How to Layer Clothes (apparently, there is a right and wrong way). Read How Much Water to Bring on a Hike and all about The Pros and Cons of Hammock vs. Tent Camping.