What Are the Two Main Types of Backpacking Stoves?

By Anna Duncan

Backpacking stoves provide an invaluable service to campers and hikers alike. They allow them to cook food, boil water, and even heat up things like soup or hot chocolate while they’re out on the trail.

Backpacking stoves come in two main types: liquid fuel stoves and canister stoves. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages that need to be considered before making a purchase.

Liquid Fuel Stoves

Liquid fuel stoves use a variety of fuels such as white gas, kerosene, diesel, or even aviation gas for power. They are typically more powerful than canister stoves and are able to generate more heat output for longer periods of time.

One of the major benefits of liquid fuel stoves is the fact that they are relatively inexpensive to purchase and operate. The downside is that they can be bulky, difficult to light in cold weather, and generate more smoke than canister stoves.

Canister Stove

Canister stoves use pressurized canisters filled with a combustible gas such as propane or isobutane. They are lightweight, easy to light in cold weather and generate less smoke than liquid fuel stoves.

One of the major drawbacks of canister stoves is their limited power output; they simply cannot generate as much heat as liquid fuel stoves. Additionally, the canisters must be continually replaced which leads to extra expense over time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are two main types of backpacking stoves: liquid fuel stoves and canister stoves. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages which should be considered before making a purchase.

Liquid fuel stoves are more powerful but require more maintenance while canister stove offer greater convenience but less power output. Ultimately it comes down to personal preference when choosing the right backpacking stove for your needs.