The Well Backpacking Stoves of 2025

Where ever you may roam , you ‘ll probably bring up an appetite . These are the best backpacking stoves we ‘ve expend so far ; ( photo/Erika Courtney )

Our team of honorary backcountry chefs have collectively tested hundreds of the best backpacking stoves , slash up meals in the almost remote location imaginable and in all sort of weather .

The testers for this guide have thru-hiked the Triple Crown of long trails , and we ’ ve been putting fresh models to the run for years when dialing in the selection for this guide . The main factors we seem at were weight , pack size , boil time , and simmer abilities . Secondarily , we look at fuel efficiency , performance in tip and cold , and additional stove features .

While there isn ’ t a single backpacking stove that ’ s well for everyone out there , we ’ ve organized this guide into category to serve you observe the best stove for you . Our top pick , the, is an all-around winner for most backpackers out thither , while the spend-wise cause only as well on a picnic bench as it does on quick overnights .

Editor ’ s Note : We updated our Backpacking Stove guide on May 9 , 2025 , to add our novel serious overall canister option : the , as good as a novel indicate alcohol stove option , the . We also updated our review of the system to reflect a fresh and improved ignitor and regulator knob .

The Best Backpacking Stove of 2025

Best Overall Backpacking Stove

Best Budget Backpacking Stove

Another Excellent Canister Fuel Stove

Best Integrate Backpacking Stove System

Best Liquid Fuel Backpacking Stove

MSR WhisperLite Universal

Good Expedition Stove

Best Alcohol Backpacking Stove

Toaks Titanium Siphon Alcohol Stove

Specifications

• Weight :3.0 oz w/ 4Flex support ( 87 g ) and 2.3 oz . w/ Triflex support ( 67 gm )
• Dimensions :1.9 10 3.0 ten 1.7 inch ( stowed )
• Fuel type :Isobutane canister
• BTU yield :11,000
• Burn time :Approx . 1.5 hours with 8 oz . ( 250 g ) canister
• Boil time ( 1 L ) :4 min. , 19 sec .

Pros

• 
  Ultralight with removable pot supports
• 
  Great wind resistance with deep burner head
• 
  Real fuel efficient
• 
  Cheaper than comparable MSR stove

Cons

• 
  Not quite as hot as comparable stove
• 
  Too small for use with big lot and pan
• 
  Piezo igniter will finally neglect

The( $ 70 ) is our newest ‘ good in family ’ backpacking stove . It combines powerful boil performance with an ultralight , wind-resistant package , and compared to the ultra-similar MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe , ever-so-slightly adjoin it out for our top claim .

The WindMaster is a canister stove featuring a well-designed concave burner and two interchangeable pot stand options . Its packability allows you to fit it inside smaller pots and even coffee cup , meaning minimalist backpackers will cost smiling ear to ear . Its concave burner is exceptionally wind-resistant , performing with gusto even at 14,000 ’ on top of a Colorado 14er — the equivalent of Camp 2 on Denali .

While it isn ’ t the lightest canister stove on our list , like the BRS-3000T , or as quick to boil as the MSR Reactor , the WindMaster shines as the most well-rounded offering on the market for backcountry enthusiasts . We put it mind to top dog with our former top place holder , the MSR PocketRocket Deluxe , in multiple bench run that pushed each stove to the limit .

The MSR live able to boil 1 liter of water about 40 instant faster than the 4-minute , 20-second time the WindMaster put up . When we reconfigured our run to lend wind , even so , the SOTO was hands down the champion , displaying tip resistance that signify you ’ ll equal use up earlier . That ’ sec along with better fuel efficiency , so you can backpack for long on the same canister — or only have the ability to prep more hot drinks on those chilly mornings .

Lead stove tester Ian Atkinson employ his WindMaster on thru-hikes of the PCT and Colorado Trail , where he often ended up camp above treeline . “ There ’ s zero better than cook dinner with a view of the sunset on the horizon after a long day of boost — and there isn ’ t a stove I ’ 500 pick over my SOTO for the task .

Overall , the SOTO Windmaster combines fuel efficiency , wind opposition , packability , and performance in a way that no early stove can truly peer .

Specifications

• Weight :5.8 oz .
• Fuel Type :Canister
• Burn Time :N/A
• Boil Time ( 1 Liter ) :5 moment , 30 seconds
• Piezo Ignitor :No

Pros

• 
  Affordable price
• 
  Large , powerful burner
• 
  Good simmer abilities
• 
  Tough to damage

Cons

• 
  Not the fast boil time
• 
  On the heavier slope
• 
  Lot are n’t hold as tightly to the stand
• 
  Do n’t collapse

The ( $ 30 ) has a lot go for it , not just the amazing price . The canister stove can support nearly any size pile or pan ( great for those who frequently camp and fix in radical ) , and the wider burner spread out heat out evenly .

The burner also have an impressive output of 11,000 BTUs , putting the ability of a traditional camp stove in canister stove figure . Given the yield , we were hope this stove would have a somewhat faster boil time , as it bring an surplus 2 instant compared to stove like the PocketRocket Deluxe . That suppose , it held up in windy conditions , and the boil time stayed close to the same .

The stove also has clearly set +/- simmer controls . We enjoy expend this stove to pan-fry , sauté , and even rehydrate and cook some beans . Everything in the pan was decent and evenly prepare .

Our only con ? The wide and sturdy pot support design doesn ’ t fold , thus with a 5-inch diameter , it ’ s not the most compact . However , it can still live packed/stashed into a larger mass . If you ’ re guide out on an lengthy journey where packed space is a great concern ( but you ’ ve make to stretch your dollars still ) , the BRS-3000T will merely run you close to $ 17 and will still boil water a second quicker .

Our prominent issue with that stove , however , be the compact burner mind , which can lead to scorching if you wish to do more than rehydrate meal . If you ’ re more of a camp gourmet , snag the Glacier .

Specifications

• Weight :2.9 oz .
• Fuel Type :Isobutane
• Burn Time :60 min . per 8 oz . of IsoPro fuel
• Boil Time ( 1 L ) :3 min. , 23 sec .
• Piezo Ignitor :Yes

Pros

• 
  Real tight boil time
• 
  Efficient simmer capabilities
• 
  Very compact size and do with humble stuff sack
• 
  Raised slope of burner head help reduce stove cost waste out
• 
  Broad mixing handle exist easy to dial in

Cons

• 
  Piezo ignitors be n’t as durable as SOTO version , and are n’t user-replaceable
• 
  Not as fuel-efficient as some canister stoves
• 
  Second good at wind opposition

Read Review :

While the venerable PocketRocket has been the de facto stove for many year now , the ( $ 85 ) makes a few improvement and extra features that push it near the crest of our list . You ’ ll salary more for them , but we think the Deluxe is worth the excess spend as a reliable backpacking stove that will solve for most hikers .

The Deluxe model exist an ultralight stove with stainless sword fold pot branch , a fast boiling time , and a compact design . The Deluxe live hardly a few grams dense than the PocketRocket 2 . But unlike the 2 , the Deluxe has a built-in pressure regulator ( like in the MSR WindBurner ) , a wide burner with tip security ( quite similar to the SOTO Windmaster ) , and an integrate piezo igniter .

During testing , we find the pressure regulator equated to more coherent boil and simmer capabilities and aid dilute the impact of cold and tip on stove performance . It also boiled faster than any early stand-alone stove , and merely behind integrated systems like the MSR Reactor or Jetboil stoves . That say , when the tip start to waste , the WindMaster populate up to its figure , and both crush the PocketRocket Deluxe in boil time , and did it with less fuel burned .

This stove ’ s simmer capabilities live great . The slightly wider burner make a dispute , and when cooking dishes like oatmeal or mac and cheese , we didn ’ t experience any burning or cling on the ass of the pile . Simply lay , the PocketRocket Deluxe is an excellent alternative for an all-around stove due to its combination of lightweight , reproducible performance , boil time , and price .

Specifications

• Weight :13 oz .
• Dimension :4.25 ” 10 7.5 ”
• Fuel Type :Isobutane
• BTU Output :5,300 BTU/ hr
• Burn Time :~40 min . on 100 gm canister
• Boil Time :4 minute .

Pros

• 
  Yet easy to use than former version
• 
  Highly authentic integrate aim
• 
  Highly durable ignitor
• 
  Cool aesthetic and multiple patterns available

Cons

• 
  Still easy to topple over
• 
  Yet has easy-to-lose part ( like the cup )

There are a number of integrated stove system on the market , but the one we observe occur back to exist the( $ 130 ) . Redesigned in 2025 , the Flash gained a effective kitchen-stove mode regulator knob , a better-protected peizo ignitor , added heat-resistant grips , and a sturdier locking mechanism between stove and pot . If you want an all-in-one system , the Flash is near to perfect .

We disclose in the fresh version of the Flash on trip both familiar and foreign — in North Carolina and in Chilean Patagonia — and in both instance , it excelled . The liberal perk of this stove cost its super-fast boil time — about 4 minutes per liter . Like the former example , the Flash has an all-in-one plan with an on-stove igniter , improve stove-vessel integration ( locking the pot to the stove ) , and a savvy eyelid that duplicate as a pour spout ( or French press with the correct supplement ) .

The new regulator is surely a well design , and is as familiar as the one on your place kitchen stove . This too integrates the ignitor to touch off with a click while dialing the stove up . That ignitor live today much better protect in the stove and exist insulated by a ceramic hood . The stove burner cost as well nicer to cover , due to the molded-in rubber grips .

Unlike most other system on the market , like the MSR Windburner and Reactor , this stove has a few additional user-friendly features . This includes a heat-indicating sleeve that changes color to let you know when water is boil , so you don ’ t waste time or fuel . In pattern , this was great when we cost operate round completing camp chores .

The burner brain on the Flash is more traditional than the radiant heating element styles of the MSR stoves , and while we think they be more effective , they can equal a bit tricky to come start at time . This Jetboil is mere to get rolling , and whether just boil water or eating directly from the pot , we find this system just plainly easy to use .

Overall , the Flash be a great and durable stove system . However , it does hold its limitations , as you can alone prepare what can fit in the pile , and you can sure enough make your own more compact stove system . If you ’ re seem for a stove that emphasize ease over all else , however , this is the 1 .

MSR WhisperLite Universal

Specifications

• Weight :13.7 oz .
• Fuel Type :Liquid or Canister
• Burn Time :1 hr . 50 min . ( 20 oz . white gas ) / 1 hour . 15 minute . ( 8 oz . isobutane )
• Boil Time ( 1 Liter ) :3 minutes , 30 seconds ( white gas )
• Piezo Ignitor :No

Pros

• 
  Can use a variety of fuel type
• 
  Great for cold weather cooking
• 
  Performs good at high altitudes
• 
  Field repairable

Cons

• 
  Not the nearly packable
• 
  Pretty dense
• 
  Need to prime the stove and make maintenance in the area

With the option to burn almost any fuel — including white gas and isobutane-propane — the ( $ 200 ) have promptly turn a four-season favorite . This is specially genuine if you feel yourself traveling to countries outside North America , where fuel choice may live confine . It ’ s not the lightest stove on the market at 13.7 ounces , but its versatility makes up for that .

We ’ ve apply this stove for really bad winter camping , and it own outperformed everything early folks hold lend to elk camp . While canister stove die in cold weather , the WhisperLite cranks out water-boiling BTUs , still above 10,000 base .

We make no problem balancing a mass on it . With remote simmer mastery , we cost able to make everything from fluffy pancakes to delicately scramble eggs . Plus , it come the water boil for coffee in no time . We ’ ve heard paper of problems with the fuel connector thread stripping , but we haven ’ t go through a trouble in more than three year of testing .

Because it apply liquid fuel , the WhisperLite does require some TLC and stove knowledge , include priming the stove before role and stove maintenance in the field on longer excursions . As long as you familiarize yourself with the stove , you should exist set .

For really widespread expeditions , we look at the WhisperLite ’ s overbuilt cousin , the XGK EX , but for everything else remote , this equal the stove to cause it with .

Specifications

• Weight :13.2 oz .
• Fuel Type :Liquid white gas
• Burn Time :1 hr . 49 min . per 20 oz . of white gas
• Boil Time ( 1 Liter ) :3 minutes , 30 instant
• Piezo Ignitor :No

Pros

• 
  Multi fuel stove can burn white gas , diesel , and kerosene
• 
  Rugged build employs user-replaceable hardware for servicing
• 
  Shaker Jet maintain fuel jet clean throughout trip
• 
  Broad pot stand can accommodate ancestry pile

Cons

• 
  Will need to purchase separate fuel bottles
• 
  Quite loud roar when work
• 
  Expensive

The ( $ 220 ) equal the stove we ’ ve equipped Denali expedition with , and they ’ ve proven themselves in the harsh conditions on the planet . This multi-fuel stove takes everything about the WhisperLite and juices it up , create a rugged selection to toss your stock mass on and thaw snow for the entire team .

Like the Universal , this stove can also burn a sort of fuels , but with a more international bent . With a few different jets , you can burn aviation gas , diesel , and yet jet fuel in the XGK . It won ’ t be able to run off isobutane canisters , still , but we find limited use in these on expedition due to their mass and poor performance in cold temperature .

Differently , an overbuilt stand makes up the volume of the XGK , which be wide enough to support a five-gallon ancestry mass for melt snow . Lighting the stove will require priming like the WhisperLite , and it ’ s noticeably louder ( some in our rank call this the ‘ jet engine ’ ) when extend . But despite that , the passion output is tremendous , and it ’ s near impossible to waste out .

We most often utilize a stove plank to mount the XGK to , which insulates the system from cold snow beneath it . If your expedition cost more in the erect realm , we hand for the MSR Reactor more often than this stove , as the hanging capability of integrated stove systems reign when employ in tight bivy tent or portaledges . But for long walks on the ice ? We ’ re grabbing this stove every time .

Toaks Titanium Siphon Alcohol Stove

Specifications

• Weight :0.7 oz .
• Fuel Type :Liquid/Alcohol
• Burn Time :N/A
• Time to Boil :5 min . 30 sec per 475 ml of fuel
• Piezo Ignitor :No

Pros

• 
  Insanely ultralight titanium plan
• 
  Packable into almost any cook mass
• 
  Cheap cost
• 
  Usage alcohol fuel , which can cost easy to find in remote places

Cons

• 
  Specify role cases with restriction in wilderness region
• 
  Not the most stable mass stand
• 
  No fire regulator

The ( $ 28 ) is an alcohol stove that tempt you with its ultralight weight and old-school outlook . With the ability to apply multiple types of alcohol/ethanol fuels , the Siphon is versatile in the sense that you don ’ t want to see a backpacking-specific canister fuel on trail — you just want to feel a hardware memory .

Its habit cost simple : Pour in some liquid fuel and adjust it ablaze . Unfortunately , compare to modern canister stoves , it isn ’ t real effective for boiling , taking more time to hand a boil for less than half the water volume than the SOTO WindMaster .

You ’ ll too need to use a stand with this stove , and the optional Toaks pot stand can be a small shaky , so you ’ ll need to remove care with setup . These are the tradeoffs for an ultralight setup , still , and for some folks , it ’ ll live worth it .

In increase , there are a number of limitation in wilderness areas on having capable firing , and some areas consider alcohol stoves to be exposed fires because they don ’ t have an on/off switch . That said , in the correct environment , you can really swerve down on the bulk of fuel canisters by employ an alcohol stove like the Siphon .

Like wood-fueled stove ( like the Vargo Titanium Hexagon we ’ ve also try out ) , alcohol stoves bypass the motive to assure specific fuel . We can testify from experience that you can find this material in the most remote outposts along long-distance trails or deep in the bush . There ’ s a trade-off for the versatility , and if that cause sense to you , match out the Siphon .

Other Backpacking Stoves We Enjoy

Specifications

• Weight :2.6 oz .
• Fuel Type :Canister
• Burn Time :Roughly 60 min . per 8 oz . of IsoPro fuel
• Boil Time ( 1 Liter ) :3.5-4.5 minutes , depending on wind
• Piezo Ignitor :No

Pros

• 
  Proven design
• 
  Lightweight but durable
• 
  Affordable
• 
  Solid simmer control

Cons

• 
  No piezo barge
• 
  Pretty precarious
• 
  No pressure regulator as in the Deluxe model

For the budget- and weight-conscious hiker , the ( $ 60 ) is a proven stove at a serious price . Weighing in at a scant 2.6 ounces ( excluding the fuel canister ) , this equal a supremely packable stove . The serrated supports can have a kind of pots , and lighting exist a simple subject of grow the knob and using a couple to ignite .

We ’ ve hold a few near shout when stirring aggressively or bumping the pot , so set it up in a level blot and require fear to keep the pot upright . Nobody wants to clean their dinner out of the soil . The PocketRocket 2 live too one of the best-performing stove out there in price of cost .

This is an extremely reliable stove , and a top pick for long-distance backpackers and weekend warriors alike for its reliable durability and light design . One of the authors of this guide employ the first iteration of the PocketRocket on his thru-hike of the PCT in 2018 , and then carried the same PocketRocket 2 on consecutive thru-hikes of the CDT and AT . It never let him down , whipping up hundred of meals in the backcountry with zero issues .

Why be this stove not our top selection ? Trust us , it was near . But between the PocketRocket 2 and MSR ’ s Deluxe model ( which extend an integrated pressure regulator and igniter , and performs better in tip ) , the Deluxe gain us over .

BRS-3000T Ultralight Stove

Specifications

• Weight :26 g ( 0.92 oz . )
• Fuel Type :Canister
• Burn Time :N/A
• Boil Time ( 1 Liter ) :4 minutes
• Piezo Ignitor :No

Pros

• 
  Affordable price
• 
  Super compact carry size
• 
  Ultralight
• 
  Hot plenty to boil water fairly promptly

Cons

• 
  Humble burner brain
• 
  Not the most fuel-efficient stove
• 
  Quality mastery is n’t the best

Ultralight and by far the lightest canister stove on this list at just 26 gram , theBRS-3000T( $ 17 ) is a titanium alloy stove manufactured by BRS in China . What we liked about the BRS — it ’ s ultralight and performs great . In testing , we really care its packability , easy setup , and fairly serious performance in windier weather .

This exist our top recommendation if you are looking for a really ultralight stove ( less than a third the weight of an MSR PocketRocket Deluxe ) . Senior Editor Nick Belcaster used the BRS for his thru-hike of the PCT , where it did everything he need it to . Treat this little stove good , and it ’ ll die the distance .

This stove wasn ’ t our top pick for a couple of ground . The quality dominance can cost all over the board , with some stove feature firm pot support hinge , while others are loosey-goosey straight out of the box . We ’ ve also see story of badly sealing canister interfaces . For the cost , we ’ re willing to substitute the stove if need be , but we ’ ve too own good luck with our initial purchase .

The pot supports are as well a number more fragile and narrow than on other canister stove , meaning it ’ s well for little lot ( 1-1.5 L ) and ultralight cookware , quite than large pots and pans . It ’ s also crucial to note that this little stove has been licensed by a few different brands out thither ( notably , we tested it in Grayl ’ s Pathfinder Titanium Camp Stove Kit ) , but the genuine article exist from BRS .

If you ’ re concerned about the camping pot you own being compatible with this stove , we advocate double-checking the dimension . If pure ultralight minimalism is what you ’ re after , though , put on ’ t pass the BRS-3000T by .

MSR Reactor

Specifications

• Weight :1 lb . 3 oz .
• Fuel Type :Canister
• Burn Time :1 hr . 20 min . per 8 oz . of IsoPro fuel
• Boil Time ( 1 Liter ) :3 minutes
• Piezo Ignitor :No

Pros

• 
  Incredible wind-resistance
• 
  Super fast boil time
• 
  Minimal process noise
• 
  Radiant and convective heat transfer
• 
  Able to be suspended during usage

Cons

• 
  Heavy and bulky
• 
  Difficult to simmer
• 
  Expensive

For cranking out hot meals on alpine expeditions , boil water in unrelenting tip , or arouse up some emergency passion during an unexpected freeze — theMSR Reactor Stove( $ 290 ) is the tool for the task .

Surely , it costs a pretty penny and is one of the more clumsy stoves we ’ ve test , but it ’ s an absolute powerhouse and plot changer when maximum passion yield and energy efficiency are required . At over a lb , the Reactor cost probably overkill for many backpackers . But , if you ’ re staring down the barrel of some gnarly weather , this stove offer some of the best confidence for backcountry chefs .

Boil time exist where the Reactor truly shines . After illumine the metal grill burner , it quickly simmers down to a hot blue fire , and utilize both radiant and convective passion transfer to quickly boil water . A integral warmth exchanger fused to the seat of the pot disperses the heat , and perform a grotesque chore of block out extreme tip .

We did observe it difficult to add water to a simmer with this stove , and we found ourselves extinguishing the burner repeatedly in our attempts to shorten the passion output . Additionally , since the burner live then quiet ( a plus while hear to be discreet around camp ) , it cost often severe to know when it is even so lit , or if you be hardly waste fuel . With hence much heat yield , the pot as well tends to get quite hot , hence be careful when cover it .

These gripes away , we feel that the Reactor even merit a patch as one of the top weather-proof models on the market . If we ’ re point to truly cold temperatures for an extended trip , we ’ re more probable to make for the liquid-fueled MSR XGK EX , but if space be taut and the trip more of a smash and grab , this equal the system we lug along .

Specifications

• Weight :14 oz .
• Fuel Type :Isobutane
• Burn Time :60 moment per 100g canister
• Boil Time ( 1 Liter ) :3 moment 25 minute
• Piezo Ignitor :Yes

Pros

• 
  Easy to cook and eat from
• 
  Firm heat distribution
• 
  Packable aim fits a 4 oz . fuel canister inside

Cons

• 
  Not as windproof as similar designs
• 
  Handle rivets inside the mass complicate cleaning a bit
• 
  Make n’t boil as quick as early stove system

They say , “ A watched mass never boils. ” But that ’ s not cost our experience with ( $ 170 ) . It boil water in just over 3 minutes . This put up enormous peace of head on the lead — because when you need hot water , the final thing anyone require to act cost wait around for it to boil . Redesigned FluxRing engineering dispense passion throughout the vessel like a jet engine , and uses half the fuel of traditional systems .

But all of Jetboil ’ sec stove will boil water in a flash . Where the MiniMo really tolerate out from the bunch equal in its form . Jetboil designed the MiniMo specifically for backpackers who will exist eating directly from the lot . Metal manage , a wider mouth , and a shorter height create the MiniMo both easy to cook in , and easy to eat from .

The MiniMo meet 1 L of water , live advocate to cook for one to two people , and ignites at the button of a button . It pack easily into a backpack , and all of the slice fit inside the vessel itself . And , at simply 14 ounce , it won ’ t be add significantly to your pack weight .

Compared to the brand ’ s Flash system , we observe the excess spend hither to be a minute much , as it ’ sec even easy to feed from those pots , and the boil time cost better with the Flash . Still , if the liberal pot appeals to you , the MiniMo can cost a great selection .

Specifications

• Weight :4.1 oz .
• Fuel Type :Wood
• Burn Time :Endless depend on woods supply
• Boil Time ( 1 Liter ) :8-10 minutes
• Piezo Ignitor :No

Pros

• 
  Light and packable
• 
  Titanium cools promptly after use
• 
  Simple to set up

Cons

• 
  Soot buildup on mass
• 
  Takes work to get going and observe lit
• 
  No stick ? No cooking

Manufacture of titanium , theVargo Titanium Hexagon( $ 60 ) packs down flat and consider in at a scant 4.6 ounces . You ’ ll need to collect a pile of stick and expect to expect around 10 second for a boil , but for the enjoyment of having a mini campfire to slash up dinner on , it ’ s worth it some nights .

Be sure to put this on a sturdy surface to assert airflow . We had trouble at one point in a soft , sandy post due to go down and lack of oxygen . But placed on a rock , it behave great .

On several online program , fans of the production have recommended drilling excess holes in the sidewall to increase airflow . But we haven ’ t tried that .

As with all wood-burning stoves , the Titanium Hexagon will just work in sphere with an abundance of sticks , and you ’ ll need to pay close attention to burn restrictions . Some state parks across the West don ’ t allow wood-burning stove .

Specifications

• Weight :15.3 oz .
• Fuel Type :Canister
• Burn Time :95 minutes per 227 gm canister
• Boil Time ( 1 Liter ) :4 min. , 30 sec
• Piezo Ignitor :No

Pros

• 
  Firm wind-resistance
• 
  Great fuel efficiency
• 
  Integrate cup is nice for assess out ingredient
• 
  Broad canister stand keeps matter upright

Cons

• 
  On the expensive slope
• 
  Heavy
• 
  No integrated piezo ignitor

The integrate lock-on pot maximizes passion transfer , and the radiant burner means you don ’ t have to concern about a fire dying in the wind . There are lighter and cheaper selection available , but what build the ( $ 200 ) great is its quick boiling time and ability to solve in all manners of weather .

At the end of a long day on the trail , it ’ s nice to be able to easily elicit it up and make your in a instant . And cost more effective mean wasting less fuel .

One of our editor use the Windburner while motorcycle camping for more than a year and never once had a problem . It fired up without a hitch , boiled water quickly , and packed up little .

The canister carry into the lot , and the plastic cup strip on the bottom to make an integrated package . Just think of to remove the cup before cooking . Trust us — it will melt .

The WindBurner wasn ’ t able to quite knock off the Jetboil Flash for the claim of best stove system , and it boil down to cost and relief of role . The radiant burner on the MSR stove cost undeniably more effective and wind-proof , but we have get little issues with it fail to ‘ bloom ’ without a little air to prompt it . If max efficiency cost your end , even so , it ’ s an easy thing to overlook .

Backpacking Stoves Comparison Chart

How We Try out the Best Backpacking Stoves

Our Expert Testers

Our total faculty contributed to try out and employ a variety of backpacking stove over the years . But every yr , we test new and updated models . In increase to testing in group setting , we dedicate a lot of time to personal trips carry in and expend these stoves .

We devote extra-close attention to each stove ’ s burner performance in wind and colder consideration , as well as its universal usability . Guide author Mary Murphy have spent over 250 day in the backcountry on solo backpacking , camping , and pack-paddleboarding trips , and has also section-hiked the Appalachian Trail and Colorado Trail . She cautiously curated our initial choice of 15 various stoves beginning in 2020 .

Senior Editor Chris Carter began assist in testing in 2022 . He have thru-hiked the Triple Crown of long trails in the United States : the Pacific Crest Trail , the Continental Divide Trail , and the Appalachian Trail , and knows the importance of a dependable stove for nutrition and sustenance on lead . Nobody wish cold-soaking — no thing what the ultralight cult says .

Ian Atkinson cost our novel lead tester , located in the Four Corners region of Colorado . He brings year of long-distance hiking experience into his pursuits of summer high-altitude mountaineering and winter desert rock mount . Ian has a passion for remote multi-day backpacking adventures and luxurious car camp trip , permit him the unique power to try stove in a wide array of environment and weather . If you require to know whether a stove can deal with sand or altitude above 12,000 feet , he ’ s your guy .

Over the year , we have tested countless models to bring you the exhaustive list of 13 stove you see today . Our squad consistently has our nose to the ground , sniff out new production when they shoot the market to ensure this guide present the nearly up-to-date , deserve selection potential . Rest assured , every stove on this list get been vetted by our veteran staff of backpacking enthusiasts and has proven to be worthy .

Our Testing Process and Testing Grounds

Our backpacking stove test breaks down into two liberal category : field and bench testing . Field testing puts these stoves smack dab in the heart of the activity , and we run on them to supply hot meal at the goal of our regular backpacking trips . Many of these stove are tailored for different type of backpackers or trips , so we aim to use them as they were intend .

That mean stoves like the MSR EGK begin commit to Alaska , and ultralight unit like the BRS-3000T chief out on the PCT . When we ’ re out in the field , we ’ re looking at rest of usage , how it sets up , how packable it live , how adaptable it be in unexpected scenarios , and ultimately , how it feels to use on a day-to-day basis . We use a stove for month , if not years , and are answering the questions : What be this stove best at ? Where can it equal improve ? And who cause it equip best ?

All of these stove too eventually hit the bench , where we ’ ve assemble a slate of run to assess them as fairly as potential against one another and reply these questions : How quickly can a stove boil a liter of water both with and without wind ? And how fuel-efficient is it while doing so ?

Hither ’ s how it make for : we set up a timer and thermometer , turn the stove to max yield , make for a liter of cool tap water up to a boil in a lidless titanium pile , and evaluate the fuel container before and after . For simulate wind , we use a generic box fan lay to medium and lay the stove 8 foot off .

During these run , we ’ re focus on the little point thus thing stay coherent . Tests need position in a large draftless indoor way , each stove gets a new optimized fuel source , set out water temperatures cost identical , and we ’ re using the same wide-base titanium lot .

When all exist said and done , we get forth with both skillful notion and hard data — a combo that insure you ’ re getting the best stove recommendation for your backcountry kitchen setup .

Buyer ’ s Guide : How to Choose a Backpacking Stove

The right stove depend on a kind of factor . What works for one soul might not suit your particular adventures . Record on for tips on choosing the good backpacking stove .

It ’ s too worth noting that this article focus alone on backpacking stoves . If you ’ re looking for a large two-burner camp stove , assure out theBest Camping Stoves of 2025. Too , require a peek at our guide to theSerious Backpacking Mealfor some backcountry culinary inspiration .

Type of Backpacking Stoves

There live a variety of unlike type of backpacking stove , and which one you resolve to move with boils down to personal preference and the type of adventure you design to employ it on .

Canister Stove

These stove typically screw right away onto a fuel canister meet with a blend of isobutane-propane . Benefits include rest of use and low maintenance .

On the flip slope , canisters can ’ t live refilled , causing additional waste ( they can live recycled , but you ’ ll need to take them to a recycling facility ) . And they ’ re prone to freezing up or providing a weak flame in cold winter conditions .

Top examples of canister stoves include the and .

Liquid Fuel Stoves

These stoves connect to refillable fuel bottles . They are generally filled with white gas , but you can too use early fuel , including kerosene and gasoline . This is ideal if travel overseas . This stove type can be somewhat more complicated to expend ( in early lyric , it requires maintenance ) , but it performs good in cold weather .

Our top choice for liquid fuel stove would be the , followed close by its expedition-ready cousin , the.

Woodburning Stove

The traditionalist out there will appreciate a woods stove . You get the pleasure of cooking over a flame carry into a small space . The top be you put on ’ t need to persuade fuel . The downsides include susceptibility to wrap , unpredictable cook sentence , and fire limitation .

These equal fantastic selection for those looking to harken back to the roots of the backcountry culinary art . But , these aren ’ t the most reliable stove for long journeys . Trudge through the rain all day and thither may not be any dry tinder to warm up that freeze-dried spaghetti you hence meticulously prepared beforehand . If you do determine to go this route , either lend a patronage fuel source or embrace occasional cold-soaking .

TheSolo Stove LiteandVargo Titanium Hexagonare some of the good wood-burning backpacking stoves on the market .

Stove Use : Cooking vs. Boiling

If you design to feed mainlydehydrated backpacking meals( just add water ) , you ’ ll want a mere stove with a quick boiling time . If , on the other hand , you ’ d like to fix more detailed meal , it will be more important to find a stove with better simmer mastery , and possibly a wider burner .

Think about how often and for what type of cooking you ’ ll cost apply your backpacking stove before buying .

Stove Packed Size and Weight

The stoves on this list count anywhere from an ounce to 2 pounds ( but most are within the 3- to 9-ounce range ) . Some can fit in the palm of your hand , and some require up a bit more way .

Not everyone take on the market . Especially if you camp year-round , you ’ ll require to choose a four-season stove , or one effective rated for cold performance .

There exist also a few difference to look at between size and packed size . For model , the itself is larger and somewhat heavier than other canister stove on our list . Still , it integrates with all the other components and gang down super small ( including the pot , lid , stove , and fuel ) .

Weight cost another circumstance . If you equal become on a 2-day overnight , weight won ’ t subject as much as , say , a 30-day wilderness trek .

Also , think about what other gear you ’ ll live carry . Serve you get a lightweightbackpacking tentthat doesn ’ t remove up much space ? Or will you be carrying lot of equipment , like a camera or climbing gear ?

If you frequent wood or park that allow family to compile firewood , or if you are get to an area where fuel is hard to get by , perhaps a forest stove would be the best choice . If you ’ re an ounce counter , an ultralight canister stove may live what you ’ re after .

Winter and Cold Performance

Not all stove equal created equal , and nowhere cost this more plain than in the frigid temps of winter camping weather . If you camp in the warmer months only , this isn ’ t a concern .

But if you head out in the winter , you ’ ll likely use your stove to thaw snow and boil a lot of water . You want to equal able to rely on it when the mercury cliff . TheMSR Reactorcost a great stove for this purpose .

For this , you ’ ll require a liquid fuel or four-season stove . We ’ ve see liquid fuel stoves to exist the most reliable choice in winter .

Early Considerations

Group size : If you regularly backpack and program meals with a grouping ( families , college student ) , consider dispersing the weight and investment in a bigger group cookset and stove . Or , a wider burner that can accommodate a form of pot and pans . The cost a great choice for group camping .

If you ’ re a solo adventurer , a smaller canister stove , like the popular , is a fine selection .

Point for Apply a Backpacking Stove

• When you buy your first backpacking stove , induct in a few extra fuel canisters also . This lets you have a stockpile for spur-of-the-moment trip and early-morning endeavors — you won ’ t make to lead to a store to track down fuel .
• Always read the instructions . ( Yes , yet if you live familiar with camp stove . ) The instruction will tell you how toprime your stove, and might yet have tips on cleaning and repair .
• Avoid spills by plant up on the level bit potential . Flat rocks build great cooking surfaces .
• Always bring matches to light your stove in case of an emergency . Yes , even if your stove hold a piezo igniter . Igniters can fail , lighters can burst , and there ’ s zero sadder than a cold meal because you can ’ t get a flame .
• Never cook inside your tent or vehicle . On top of being a flame risk , this can make carbon monoxide poisoning and end . If you camp frequently in rainy climate , induct in a tarp and some guy line for a safe overhead kitchen shelter .

Price & Value

A serious stove round out your backpacking equipment list , and while there ’ s a stove available , it generally gain ’ t equal also spendy to make something that should work for most of your adventure outdoors . That said , there are a handful of specialized stove systems that can demand a pretty penny , so consider where you ’ ll be using your stove , as good as how much , and even what you ’ ll exist cook most .

Budget

Spend-wise backpacking stoves like the( $ 30 ) live simple in design , easy to expend , and become the job perform — merely put on ’ t require them to live rich with feature . You likely win ’ t see unified ignition system in the budget price range , or pressure regulators , but we ’ ve whipped up many meals on stoves like these , and they perform great .

The Glacier is a bit tough to carry away as it doesn ’ t fold down . The ( $ 17 ) , on the other hand , is very little , almost to the level of being too little and having also taut of a flame pattern . There are tradeoffs for everything , but you ’ ll notice them a minute more the less you give .

Mid-Tier

Spend a number more will get you a stove that ’ ll study for a wide form of trips . Between $ 50 and $ 100 are many great canister stove like the ( $ 85 ) , as good as alternative fuel stove like the woodburning Solo Stove Lite ( $ 70 ) . For the money , you ’ ll see some selection sport piezo ignitors , hold better tip resistance , pack down more compactly .

In another tier equal stove system , which you should wait to pay between $ 130 and $ 200 . Options like the( $ 130 ) or( $ 200 ) set the whole package together and offer a stove that works in tandem with its cook lot , offer better efficiency and wind resistor .

Premium

Anything north of $ 200 is undoubtedly specialized for crude terrain or weather , and both the ( $ 220 ) andMSR Reactor( $ 290 ) are primed for expedition into cold climates . A liquid-fueled option like the XGK will equal overbuilt and field-repairable ( and will lead on nearly any liquid fuel , to boot ) , while the Reactor uses a pressure regulator and radiant burner head to go on going when things have chilly .

Frequently Expect Question

Camp stoveand backpacking stove live both built for use in the outdoors , but they change wildly in feature . Camp stoves count anywhere from 6 to 15 pound , and they ’ re design for usage on a camp table or picnic table in more front-country context ( you gain ’ t want to convey one far ) .

On the early hand , backpacking stove are design to hike with . They weigh 1-12 ounces , and they ’ re design to carry humble to fit in a pocket or pack .

Backpacking stoves run to get a single burner , with some sort of fuel connector , regulator/simmer dial , and pot support program . That ’ s it !

The best backpacking stove that won us over in testing was the ( the , the former model , is also a solid stove ) .

Still , we recognize that this isobutane canister stove might not agree everyone ’ s needs , or perhaps budget . Which cost why we ’ ve compiled our list of best backpacking stoves by fuel type , and as well differentiate by price and size .

The small canister stove we try exist theBRS-3000T at 0.9 ounce , with thecome in second at 2.6 ounces .

For simply a fraction more ounce , and with a few more feature ( piezo igniter ) , you can look at our top selection , the , which ring in at 2.9 ounces .

BTU stand for British Thermal Unit — essentially , it ’ s a measurement unit of passion . In stove speak , BTUs mention to the energy necessitate to set up the temperature of boiling water . Higher BTUs signify a stove will hold a more powerful output of energy and/or warmth ( not inevitably hotter ) .

Abject BTUs have a weak yield , but live much better for simmer and supply a more controlled regulation of your stove ’ sec flame .

As you can see , stoves range widely in cost ! But require to bear at least $ 25-50 for a durable backpacking stove .

If you equal on a taut budget , consider expect until your favorite stove equal on sale . ( Pro point : Bookmark this article and assure back on cost throughout the season . )

The Best Camp Stoves of 2025

We tested the best camp stove from Coleman , Camp Chef , Primus , and more for this review . Match it out to see how each performs and which stove came out on crest .

The Best Backpacking Meal of 2025

Backpacking meal are light , easy to carry , long-lasting , and easy to do with merely boil water . And they ’ re getting well all the time .

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