How to Choose a Butane Camp Stove

Wikimedia Commons

Butane camping stoves are simple to operate, with only three parts to worry about: fuel bottle, valve and burner. But stoves come in a few different varieties, and choosing the right one is important to the enjoyment of the camping experience.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Step 1

Consider your portability needs. This is arguably the first and foremost consideration for a stove. It's not an issue for an RV or tailgate camper, but a serious cross-country trekker will want to get the lightest stove possible. That is where the difference between a five-pound and a three-pound stove will become a big deal.

Step 2

Take note of the fuel consumption and heat output. The fuel also needs to be hauled around, and not all stoves are equal in this department. Stoves should indicate the BTU output and maximum fuel consumption in either grams/hour or BTUs/hour. If two stoves are only ounces apart in weight, but the slightly heavier one is more fuel-efficient, it will be lighter in the end because you won't need to haul an extra fuel bottle.

Step 3

Look for a stove with an electric or some other automatic starter. Most stoves come with them. The last thing any camper needs is to not be able to start her stove because of wet matches.

Step 4

Consider price. Prices can vary widely. For example, a decent five-pound stove will cost between $25 and $35, but a 10-pound two-burner stove will cost between $100 and $115. This may be a consideration for more reasons than just budget. The owner of a remote cabin might want to think twice about leaving a $350 four-burner butane camp stove in a poorly secured place.

Resources

Dick's Sporting Goods: Guide to Camping Stoves

Article Written By Edwin Thomas

Edwin Thomas has been writing since 1997. His work has appeared in various online publications, including The Black Table, Proboxing-Fans and others. A travel blogger, editor and writer, Thomas has traveled from Argentina to Vietnam in pursuit of stories. He holds a Master of Arts in international affairs from American University.

Editor's Pick

Backcountry Camping Tips

You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...
More Backcountry Camping...
Popular Article

Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...
More Beach Camping...
Featured Video

Common Sense Hiking Tips

The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.
More Camping Basics...