Types Of Camping Stoves
There are many different types of camping stoves to choose from. Depending on your specific camping needs some may work better than others for you. In this article I will go over the 10 common types of camping stoves, types of fuel they use and different price ranges.
The Windscreen
The windscreen is just what the name implies. You get or make your own windscreen and set it up around where you will be starting your fire. Then you gather up twigs, bark and anything else you can cleanly burn. The windscreen essentially blocks the wind from putting out your little fire, but make sure to pay attention to not let the fire spread since you are cooking on the ground. Make sure to pay attention to burn bans. Also rain can put a damper on this type of stove leaving you with no fire. This type of stove if more suited for backpackers and cost about as much as a package of reynolds foil paper to construct.
The Minimalist
This is another type of stove that is suited for backpackers. These are also known as pocket stoves. It is basically a folding pot stand that use fire tablets to produce your flame. The output of the fire tablets is very low so you probably won’t be cooking any steaks on it. This type of stove however is extremely lightweight and collapsible. The average cost is around $13.
The Alcohol Stove
Another type of minimalist stove that you literally make out of a coke can. The lightweight and minimal space it takes up can be ideal for backpackers or campers who are tight on space. They are slow cooking and very susceptible to wind. The cost can range anywhere between $0-$20 or however much you would pay for some sodas and denatured alcohol. Here is an interesting YouTube video on how to construct this type of stove.
The Ultralight Burner
This is just a small single burner that is attached to a fuel canister and has collapsible support arms where you would place your pot or pan on. Ideal for backcountry camping and lightweight, weighing just ounces. The average cost ranges between $20-$160 and the fuel type can vary between liquid gas, propane, or multifuel.
The Two-Burner Stove
Used by families and scout troops for generations this type of camp stove was made popular by Coleman. It runs on propane fuel and is ideal for a group of 10 campers or less. These stoves are very durable and can take a beating and keep on kicking. Maintenance is simple and they last for years. The downside is they are bulky and heavy. This is more of a front country type of stove because of the weight and rather large design. They usually average between $70-$160.
The Boiler
This type of stove is mainly designed for boiling water quickly. The design is compact and consists of a pot, burner, fuel canister, stand, and lid. The fuel it uses is a isobutane canister, and usually only works with the pot it comes with. It is ideal for the backpacker who is looking to pack as little weight as possible. They usually average between $80-$220.
The Chuck Wagon
It is ideal for when feeding large groups of campers. They are big, and also configurable with the old style stock burners, but some also come with grills as well. Best for front country gourmet camping. It uses a large propane canister and averages between $150-$190.
The Charger Stove
These are the newest additions to the camp stove world. They come equipped with “charger” units that convert heat energy into electrical energy so you can recharge small items like phones. You place your pot or pan on top of the unit and it acts as a small campfire. It’ll burn just about anything that is dry and flammable like twigs, cardboard, fuel pellets, bark, etc. They usually range between $100-$300.
Cooking With Sun
When concentrated the suns rays can cook food in minutes. This type of portable stove is another new addition to the camp stove world with updated designs, and better efficiency. You can literally cook a full meal with zero fuel consumption and minimal environmental impact with these solar cookers. The downside is these stoves are limited to daytime cooking with minimal cloud coverage. The average price is around $280.
So as you can see when it comes to the types of camp stoves you have many different options to choose from. It is best to understand what your camping needs and requirements are and then selecting the right camp stove to meet those needs. Always use your best judgement and exercise extreme caution when dealing with open flames.
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