Guide: How to Choose Your Stove?
Having a good cookware set is not enough for eating during an outdoor activity; you also need a good stove that fits your needs...
A good stove is just as important as a good cookware set or a good dish. You need to choose it based on several criteria such as frequency of use, power, number of users, weight, size, heating method, etc. This guide will help you navigate the world of outdoor cooking !
Jetboil Flash and cup 1L gas stove
€146.14
The Different Fuels
Before choosing your stove, it’s important to understand the different types of fuels. These can influence your final choice. There are 4 main types of stoves:
- Gas Stoves: The fuel is a gas stored in liquid form in a cartridge. This gas is often butane, propane, or isobutane (more info here).
- Gasoline Stoves (liquid fuel or multi-fuel): Gasoline is a liquid fuel stored in a bottle. This fuel can be C-grade gasoline, unleaded gasoline (95/98), lamp oil, kerosene, or diesel. Multi-fuel stoves are designed to use either liquid fuel or gas.
- Alcohol Stoves: The fuel is liquid or solid alcohol (the best example being Esbit tablets).
- Wood Stoves: These stoves are designed to burn wood to generate energy.
Let’s go into more detail…
Gas Stoves
Gas stoves are by far the most common. They are very reliable, require little maintenance, and are simple to use. There is a wide range of options, starting from stoves that cost a few dozen euros to models worth several hundred euros.
Important note: While gas is easy to find in France, it can be more difficult abroad, depending on your destination—so be sure to check in advance. It can also be tricky to travel with gas canisters… For example, it’s impossible to bring them on a plane in the cabin.
There are two types of canisters: valve canisters and screw canisters. The latter are very practical, as they are easy to use and follow an international standard (EN417 for valve canisters). Brands like MSR, Optimus, Primus, Coleman, and Jetboil use this system. Simple valve canisters (without threading), used in France by CampingGaz, are not compatible unless you use an adapter. I would advise against using these so-called “pierceable” canisters, as they are difficult to find outside of France and are no longer usable once pierced.
It’s important to note that pressurized gas doesn’t perform well in low temperatures. It’s almost impossible to use a standard gas stove in freezing temperatures unless you use specific canisters, such as those with isobutane and propane from MSR or Jetboil.
Another solution for cold weather issues: new-generation burners, like the Jetboil Joule, offer high performance in extremely low temperatures (-12°C!). This is made possible by using an inverted canister and a heat diffuser (FluxRing) that allows the stove to be used by high-altitude trekkers. In an emergency, if you don’t have a low-temperature stove, you can warm up a gas canister by rubbing it against your clothes (before connecting it to the stove) and use the stove with a limited flow to heat some water.
A final note: gas stoves with an external canister tend to be more fragile since they have more parts (such as the hose and seals), but they offer a real increase in stability and can work at negative temperatures by inverting the canister (valve down). This is the case with the Optimus Vega stove.
- Fuel Availability: 3/5
Gas canisters are only available in specialty stores
Transport may be difficult (e.g., on a plane) - Weight and Size: 4/5
Very lightweight and compact models (73 g with MSR)
Available in various gas canister volumes - Power: 5/5
These are the most powerful and efficient stoves
They work at full power immediately upon ignition - Power Adjustment: 5/5
Simple and very precise adjustment - Temperature and Usage Conditions: 3/5
Basic models do not perform well in low temperatures
Wind can affect performance
Works very well in the rain - Safety: 5/5
Screw canisters are very secure
No handling of fuel - Stability: 4/5
Compact models lack stability, requiring a tripod for the gas canister
External models are very stable - Autonomy: 3/5
High power means higher fuel consumption, but increased autonomy can be achieved by using stoves with heat diffusers and reflectors - Price: 4/5
There are very efficient and durable entry-level stoves available for around €30
My entry-level favorite: the MSR PocketRocket 2 (which replaced the PocketRocket after 10 years of loyal service).
My high-end favorite: the JetBoil Minimo 1L Carbon Cup with its 6000 BTU/h and 442g.
Liquid Fuel Stoves
Liquid fuel stoves (liquid or multi-fuel) have an undeniable advantage: fuel is available everywhere, no matter where you are. Whether it's gasoline C, specifically dedicated to stoves, or simply the fuel from your car (SP98, SP95, Diesel), the stove will work. It will also run on kerosene or lamp oil.
Stored in a container that is pressurized using a built-in pump, the fuel feeds a remote burner. This type of stove is widely used on long-term trips, expeditions, polar regions, and high mountains. It is recommended for groups, as its great stability allows it to support larger pots. When in a group, it's easy to split the burner on one side and the fuel canisters on the other. If you're experienced, you can also carry just the necessary liquid, optimizing weight. The efficiency of this equipment is excellent, even in cold weather.
This isn't necessarily equipment for beginners. You need to acquire some expertise to make the most of its full power, such as mastering preheating. Indeed, to create an optimal flame, the fuel must vaporize. It needs to be heated in its liquid state to quickly transform into gas when it contacts the flame. Some stove models come with a built-in preheating system. You simply pour half a teaspoon of fuel and ignite it to heat the pipe that delivers the fuel to the burner. It’s a tedious process but essential.
Unlike gas stoves, this range requires rigorous and regular maintenance. Don’t worry, if there’s an issue, major brands offer replacement parts. It’s common to see a stove clogged by low-quality fuel or diesel. It is preferable to use dedicated fuel. Gasoline C, which is highly recommended, contains no residues. It’s one of the cleanest fuels. If you choose this system, don’t neglect the fuel bottle. Ensure it’s compatible if it’s not included in the original package.
Multi-fuel stoves, on the other hand, can use liquid fuels (Gasoline C, SP95, SP98, Diesel...) as well as gas with EN417-standard cartridges. This is a significant advantage as you can choose between two fuels, each with its own benefits. If you're heading to high mountains or extremely cold temperatures, you can use liquid fuel; otherwise, you can use gas.
- Fuel Availability: 4/5
Multiple fuels are widely available
Various fuel options to choose from - Weight and Size: 3/5
There are few models that are very compact
You need to carry both the fuel bottle + hose and maintenance kit - Power: 4/5
These are very powerful and high-performance stoves
However, they require a preheating period - Power Adjustment: 4/5
You will need to adjust between the valve opening and the fuel bottle pressure. At equal valve openings, the lower the pressure, the smaller the flame. - Temperature and Usage Conditions: 5/5
Liquid fuel stoves are recommended for high mountains and polar expeditions.
You will need to install a wind reflector for optimal use - Safety: 3/5
Handling (connecting and disconnecting the fuel bottle) is always delicate
Preheating requires careful attention
Requires regular maintenance - Stability: 5/5
These stoves are remote and very stable.
They are designed to accommodate larger pots - Autonomy: 4/5
Different sizes of fuel bottles are available
With experience, it's easy to optimize fuel volume based on your needs - Price: 3/5
Due to the complexity of the mechanism, there is no "cheap" stove
With proper maintenance, it is a reliable and durable stove
My favorite:the MSR WhisperLite Universal Combo. This multi-fuel model is also compatible with EN417 gas canisters and features an AirControl system: It optimizes the fuel and air mixture depending on the type of fuel. It comes with a carrying case that includes the fuel bottle, a maintenance kit with tools, a windscreen, and an inverted stand for the canisters.
Alcohol Stoves
Alcohol stoves are the simplest to use as well as in their construction. They are also generally less expensive and more durable. However, they are much less efficient than gas or liquid fuel stoves. Alcohol can be used at any temperature, even below freezing. If the temperature is too low, like with liquid fuel stoves, you will need to assist in the vaporization of the alcohol, so preheating the fuel will be necessary. To do this, you need to raise the temperature of the stove and the alcohol (without necessarily igniting it) using a "preheater" (available for certain models). Alternatively, you can simply place a tea light under the stove. Without preheating, the system will still work, but it will take a little longer (and thus more alcohol) to reach the vaporization point.
Good to know, gel and solidified alcohol warm your pot without vaporizing and therefore don't require preheating.
The operation of the stove is very simple: a small dish holds the liquid, which, once ignited and vaporized, heats your pot using a flame diffuser. It is very difficult, if not impossible, to adjust the flame's power. Whether you use the alcohol in liquid, gel, or tablet form (such as Esbit in MREs), there is quite a strong odor released during combustion.
If you choose this type of equipment, you will need to use a windscreen, as the flame is relatively "weak" and may go out in a breeze. Additionally, it will help concentrate the heat, thus optimizing cooking time.
If you choose liquid fuel, you will also need to invest in a bottle for alcohol transport (see here). Gel and solid fuels are also very practical because they are less volatile. They can be used even without a stove, in a small saucer or directly on the ground. Some DIY enthusiasts create their own stoves, called a HoboStove. This requires some skill, and the performance is rarely ideal.
- Fuel Availability: 4/5
Fuel is available and can be found in supermarkets.
3 possible forms: liquid alcohol, solid, or gel. - Weight and Size: 5/5
There is no more compact option.
Some titanium models weigh only around thirty grams. - Power: 2/5
These are low-power stoves.
A preheating period is required. - Power Adjustment: 1/5
It is nearly impossible to vary the flame power. - Temperature and Usage Conditions: 5/5
Provided you preheat, the stove can be used at any temperature.
Alcohol cannot freeze.
A wind reflector should be used for optimal performance. - Safety: 2/5
Handling alcohol can be dangerous.
It is not recommended to refill the stove while it is heating. - Stability: 2/5
Very small and very unstable.
Knocking over an alcohol stove can be catastrophic. - Autonomy: 4/5
There are various sizes of alcohol bottles available.
With experience, it is easy to optimize the amount of alcohol based on your needs. - Price: 5/5
Very affordable stove, starting at €15 (with refills).
My favorite: the Esbit all-in-one with stove, windscreen, and pot. It also has a stand for solid fuel blocks. It's very compact and lightweight.
Wood stoves
Wood stoves are also very simple to use; wood is a very available and often free resource. However, it can become scarce and difficult to light in the medium and high mountains. This system has a traditional aspect that may appeal to some, such as bushcraft enthusiasts. They are highly appreciated when it's impossible to make a fire directly on the ground.
The wood stove is very pleasant and allows you to cook differently from other stoves, just like cooking over a campfire. However, it can be difficult to manage the flame power and sometimes a bit tricky to light without firestarter (like this type of tinder). You will also need to plan ahead for wood, preferably dry and small in size for better combustion. Some stoves are very efficient and use double combustion of gases to produce a constant and high-temperature flame. Others are combined with kettles like the Kelly Kettle, allowing you to heat water, and they do this very well. In this kit, a stove suitable for cooking directly over the fire is provided. Some stoves are very basic and work like portable barbecues, while others are highly sophisticated and even produce energy, allowing you to charge small electronic devices. This is the case with the Biolite range. Apart from these, a wood stove requires little or no maintenance; just store it dry to prevent rusting.
With this type of equipment, you will need to choose a pot compatible with wood fires. There is a significant amount of soot residue, and prolonged use on an anodized aluminum container could damage the coating (unless you leave the soot). Therefore, it's best to opt for a stainless steel set, such as the MSR Alpine series. As explained in this guide: how to choose your cooking pot, food-grade stainless steel pots are more resistant to abrasion (scratching, cleaning).
Be cautious, as there is a real risk with this type of equipment during dry seasons or in wooded areas.
- Fuel Availability: 5/5
Wood is available and free.
Be cautious in high mountain or desert regions. - Weight and Size: 4/5
Fairly lightweight for certain models.
Wood stoves are often designed for multiple people. - Power: 2/5
Average power.
Varies depending on the type of wood. - Power Adjustment: 1/5
It’s nearly impossible to adjust the flame's power. - Temperature and Usage Conditions: 4/5
As long as dry wood can be found, this stove works in all temperatures. - Safety: 3/5
Water is needed to extinguish the wood fire.
Be mindful of the environment. - Stability: 4/5
Relatively stable. - Autonomy: 5/5
Works continuously as long as there is wood. - Price: 4/5
Price can vary depending on performance and features.
Basic models require no maintenance and are durable.
My favorite: The Kelly Kettle Scout for drinking hot coffee with friends or rehydrating some freeze-dried meals. This stove works in the rain and loves the wind!
Bonus: Self-heating Systems
Self-heating systems: There’s a new alternative, chemical heating with “self-heating” modules. This system uses a chemical reaction to produce energy and heat to warm your food. Without flames or smoke, it’s a discreet system that requires no fuel—just a little water to activate the reaction. The water doesn’t need to be potable, and this system works even with seawater or urine. The chemical action of the liquid combined with calcium oxide and calcium hydroxide (or equivalent) produces a heat source strong enough to warm your meal.
It’s a single-use system. To heat your meal, simply open the pouch at the indicated level, place your food still in its airtight packaging inside, and add 60ml of water (amount may vary depending on the model). Then, close the pouch and wait about ten minutes. This is very practical for sterilized meal pouches, but you can also heat up homemade meals stored in a zipped pouch, for example.
There’s a range of sterilized meals specifically designed for heating with the self-heating system. This system is also available in MRE 12and 24-hour rations. It’s extremely useful when it’s difficult or prohibited to make a flame. It’s essential in an emergency situation in a car, like during a snowstorm, for example. It’s also ideal for an airsoft milsim (military simulation) game or a hunting trip. It’s perfect for an un-equipped hotel room or, why not, at the office, on a construction site, or at the university. It’s important to note that this system requires no other investment than a fork—no stove or cookware needed.
- Fuel Availability: 1/5
Very rarely available, only in specialized stores - Weight and Size: 5/5
Very light and compact
Barely more bulky than an A4 sheet - Power: 3/5
Average power
It takes 7 to 12 minutes to heat a sterilized meal - Power Adjustment: 0/5
Impossible to adjust the power - Temperature and Usage Conditions: 5/5
As long as there is liquid water, this system works at any temperature - Safety: 5/5
Generates a lot of heat but cannot ignite the surrounding environment - Stability: 5/5
Can be placed flat on any surface - Autonomy:
Single-use system - Price: 3/5
Affordable but should be considered as a consumable.
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