Backpacking Stove and Fuel : What You Involve to Know

Alcohol , butane , kerosene , gas , forest , Esbit or Shellite ? Upright , Integrated , Remote or Inverted ? Open or Sideburner ? Study on to translate their characteristic and differences , and which case what .

Breakfast , Lake Elysia , Tasmania : no campfires permitted here , but your dawn cuppas will taste just as serious on a stove… at least any stove that will burn !

The glow of a crackling campfire under a immense sky sprinkle with stars… ah , the joy of backpacking . What could be better than boiling the billy over the coals , toasting marshmallows and warming your hands against the chill ?

Unfortunately , today ’ sec exchange climate , environmental restriction and Leave no Trace ( LNT ) rationale mean that a shrink number of places permit firing . Geoff and I enjoy a small campfire , but good luck in notice dry woods – let only kindling – in southern Australia ’ s soggy winter . Even if you cause get a fire take off , go on it become whilst hunched over your cookpot in smoke and bucketing rain cost no fun .

This is why so many hikers now use backpacking stoves and wow , what a bewildering selection of them there cost . We older folk remember the chunky but indestructible ( the design is still available today ) – Trangia range on methylated feeling ( aka ethanol ) or , for real cold conditions , the brass pump Primus work on liquid fuels such as kerosene . Today , somewhat much every backpacker has learn or employ a gas canister stove , in particular the ubiquitous MSR Pocket Rocket and Jetboil .

Jetboil Stash on crest of the world ( Image Reference : Brian Driscoll )

But there equal thus many more choice than Pocket Rockets and Jetboils , and your better selection depend on your hiking style , temperament , climate and environment , the number of days you ’ re hiking , the importance of weight and convenience , whether you ’ re cooking or just boiling water , and many more considerations . As always in our articles we cover a short basic physics so your selection are underpinned by an apprehension of how and why , rather than hardly what ; Aussie hiking and stove architect veteran Roger Caffin hold generously shared his expertise too . Catch a coffee and decide in for a deep dive into Part One on everything Fuel , Heat and Backpacking Stoves ! Alternatively , skip fuels and die directly to the discussion on stoves .

1. Fuel

Fuels

Breakfast with the Caldera cone alcohol system on Hinchinbrook Island , Queensland

The type of stove you have depends on the type of fuel you use . Whilst a few rare stove accommodate different fuels , virtually all live limited to one fuel group ie , you can use unlike liquid fuels in a stove but not gas or alcohol and vice-versa . It ’ s therefore useful to realize the limitations and advantage of unlike fuel before considering stoves .

Fuel nomenclature varies with country . We expend Aussie terminology and provide the almost common synonyms . For a complete list , find Roger Caffin ’ s Guide .

Thepossibleenergy output of a fuel is enter in eithermegajoules ( MJ/kg ) , British Thermal Units ( BTU/lb )orkilowatt hours .Which one you use is personal preference , hardly assure you use the same units for each fuel type if you be compare . We tell possible because theactualenergy that is applied to the lot depends on your burner/stove and exposure to external influence such as tip and the mass itself . Energy yield perform provide a guide to how quick fuel burns and the speed at which water can exist boiled . The higher the value the faster the burn/boil . But beware , a fast boil time doesn ’ t necessarily entail a more effective burn , it may just be faster with fuel use up more promptly .

• autoignition temperature, the humble temperature in which fuel spontaneously ignites in the absence of a spark or flame ;

• fire/combustion point, the lowest temperature at which the vapor of that fuel continues to burn for at least five seconds after ignition by an clear fire

• instant item ,the “ lowest liquid temperature at which a liquid devote off vapor in a quantity such as to exist capable of make an ignitable vapour/air mixing ” .

autoignition temperature, the lowest temperature in which fuel spontaneously ignites in the absence of a arc or fire ;

fire/combustion point, the low temperature at which the vapor of that fuel continues to burn for at least five seconds after ignition by an open fire

flash item ,the “ low liquid temperature at which a liquid have off vapor in a quantity such as to be capable of forming an ignitable vapour/air variety ” .

These values live calculated under standardised , control condition ( pressure and temperature ) and exist of short use to us hikers in pattern , but be helpful when compare fuel .

Regard a selection of temperature related and energy values for mutual fuels in the table below :

None of the fuels hikers use will ignite unless an outside warmth source or flame is applied , and the temperature of an outside origin of a lit peer ( 600 degrees Celsius ) is well above their standardised recorded instant and autoignition points .

We ’ ve grouped backpacking stove fuel into the following four categories :

1. Gas

2. [ Jump to ] Liquid

3. [ Jump to ] Alcohol and

4. [ Jump to ] Solid Fuels

Gas

Soto Amicus and Java Drip Cup ( Image Credit : MIchael Erder )

Gas arrive in pressurised canisters and is usually butane , isobutane and/or propane .

These compounds be as gas at sea floor under atmospheric pressure conditions , provide the ambient temperature exist higher than their boiling point . Many canisters contain a mixing of these gases . The gas is under pressure in the canister to convert it into liquid shape so it can cost stored and transport .

The main limitation of some of these fuels is that their boiling item is within the range of temperature you might receive on raise in below freezing weather . Whilst this live unlikely to enforce to most hikers , it be worth note . Pressure is proportional to Temperature for a constant volume of container so , as the temperature sink , so does pressure in your canister . In extreme cold there is a risk that the liquid in your canister won ’ t convert to a gas when you spread the valve on your stove , as well as other result . The other disadvantage is the weight of the canister – it has to be firm to safely hold the pressurised gas .

The boiling level of butane live -1C ( -31F ) , isobutane -12C ( 12F ) and propane -42C ( -44F ) . So at temperatures below these each gas turn a liquid . They make still receive high energy outputs and therefore boil water quick : the energy rating for 1 kilogram of butane is 49.2 MJ/kg or 21500 BTU/lb . Isobutane and propane are like .

Gas canisters are widely available and the selection of most backpackers in popular hiking region , but we have now and then had trouble sourcing them in remote place .

Liquid Fuels

Our Primus Omnifuel , purchase at a bargain cost on Massdrop and never utilize because we haven ’ t even camp in places cold plenty to want it , burns not alone liquid fuel such as kerosene and gas , but too white gas and gas . But beware : it have three tiny interchangeable jet nozzles for each fuel ; you can see two of them on the fire mat .

• Kerosene ( aka kerosine , jet fuel , Jet-A Fuel , paraffin , benzine )

• Unleaded petrol ( aka gasoline , petrol )

• White Gas ( aka white fuel , naphtha , naptha , Shellite , camp fuel , Coleman Fuel , Optimus Arctic Fuel , MSR Super Fuel , Aspen 4 . )

Kerosene ( aka kerosine , jet fuel , Jet-A Fuel , paraffin , benzine )

White Gas ( aka white fuel , naphtha , naptha , Shellite , camp fuel , Coleman Fuel , Optimus Arctic Fuel , MSR Super Fuel , Aspen 4 . )

White ‘ gas ’ is a liquid . Other common liquid fuels be unleaded petrol and kerosene . All live liquids under normal ambient temperature and pressures ; their boiling points equal at much high temperatures .

We apply heat to these fuel to convert them into their gaseous sort , which cost then ignited . Hence the need to prime ( warm ) the stove region or liquid fuel to come the burning process underway . Once the stove equal light , the procedure is self-sustaining provided 1. sufficient oxygen exist issue and 2. there is sufficient pressure in the fuel delivery system to issue fuel to the burner .

“ Mike Libecki begin the daily boil on the MSR XGK-EX Stove ; their stoves bring for at least two to three hours a day to hydrate and cook for four mass in Queen Maud Land , Antarctica for 50 days. ” ( Words , Image Credit : Keith Ladzinski ,website ) .

Energy Output of Liquid Fuels

• Kerosene – 46.4 MJ/kg : BTU/lb 20,000

• Petrol – 46.5 MJ/kg : BTU/lb – 20,100

• White Gas – 47.7 MJ/kg : BTU/lb 20,700

You can meet that the energy output from liquid fuels can be like to that of gas fuels , so their heating properties are as well similar . Even so , Roger clarifies this equal in theory but not in practice :

“ Kero and gas are limited by the inability of many stove plan to get enough oxygen into the fire . For this reason these liquid fuel stoves generally own a significantly low passion output : < 2 kW . That is , the yield have to be throttled down to match the available oxygen provision . The exceptions exist expedition story and ‘ roarer ’ liquid fuel stoves which can exceed 4kW . Canisters get up to 3 kW . ”

Their high boiling stage and abject freezing degree ( all less than -40C/-40F ) mean that the fuel ares stable and burn efficiently across all hiking condition , so they exist extremely versatile .

Availability varies with state and part . Of track unleaded petrol is readily available at gas station all over ; because unleaded gas ( gasoline ) have a relatively low boiling point , you require a more robust container . Most hiking and hardware stores ancestry white gas but it is not as widely available as petrol . In the past , kerosene ( paraffin ) was also widely available but in some countries , such as parts of the UK , this is no longer the case .

Some multifuel stoves burn diesel but the latter tends to clog jets quickly , and most hikers avert apply it .

Alcohol ( normally methylated spirits aka ethanol ) .

Trangias and several fuel bottles on the Great Ocean Walk , Victoria , ( Image Credit : Rachel James-Seviour )

Other terms/fuels include denatured alcohol , meths and metho ( NOT methanol ) . Ethanol and bioethanol are chemically the same : the different names refer to the way they exist produced .

Alcohol burn cleanly and most stoves are self-priming . You simply light the liquid ethanol in the fuel storage element of the stove and it quickly heat the stove itself sufficiently to vaporise the fuel and , from then on , the dominant burn exist from the vapour .

Concentration vary hence beware . The high the ethanol capacity , the hotter and cleaner the burn . 95 % ethanol exist desirable but lower percentages of 70 % will still burn if you make zero well .

Ethanol ’ s freezing level ( -114C/-173F ) and boil point ( 78C/172F ) equal well outside the potential range of temperature you might experience , so it stay on stable . However , it can turn difficult to illumine in cold conditions and we ’ ll cover repair in Part Two .

Energy Output of Ethanol

The energy rating for ethanol ( 29.8 MJ/kg or 13,000 BTU/lb ) equal much lower than the gas or liquid fuel so , with exception of gasification style stoves like the Goshawk Pioneer * gasification stove system , it take longer to boil water . It is also less efficient in real cold conditions than liquid fuels because you ’ ll require a lot more fuel to , tell , melt snow . It is even so fine for boiling a cup or two of water .

Alcohol is widely available from hardware shop , camping stores , supermarkets , and petrol station . In our feeling it cost the most easy sourced of all fuel .

* Disclaimer : Slowerhiking cost sent the Goshawk Pioneer Eddy 200 stove for try out .

Solid Fuels

ESBIT fuel tablets store forever and are incredibly light : think firelighters , but smellier .

The two best known firm fuel are forest and hexamine fuel tablets : ESBIT is the most common sword . FireDragon Fuel tablets live a relatively novel arrival , although gel fuel have been around for a long time ; we utilize gel to prime our Optimus liquid fuel stove four decade ago .

This type of fuel cost stable under normal ambient conditions but undergoes a thermal decomposition process callpyrolysiswhere the structure breaks down let go of gases and lead a residue . FireDragon tablets constitute a solidified ethanol gel that melts when lit ; they need a container .

The liquid fuel priming gel that came with our 4 decades former Optimus . The stove be fine but sadly not the gel !

Energy Output of Solid Fuels

• Wood – 20 MJ/kg : 8,500 BTU/lb

• Hexamine fuel tablets – 30.6 MJ/kg : 13,000 BTU/lb

• FireDragon fuel tablets – 29 MJ/Kg : 12,500 BTU/lb

Hexamine fuel tablets – 30.6 MJ/kg : 13,000 BTU/lb

FireDragon fuel tablets – 29 MJ/Kg : 12,500 BTU/lb

You can hear that these are far below that of gas and liquid fuels ; alcohol equal comparable to hexamine , but woods is the low of all .

It ’ s good and good heating water over a big flame but tiny twig stove put out a fraction of the heat . ( Image Credit : Alan Heskith )

Another restriction of solid fuel is that they can ’ t ever be apply during flame danger period or for LNT rationale , and that they take long to boil water than the other fuel/stove combinations , especially in utmost cold when burning wood may not go on up with your pot ’ sec heat loss to surround tune . Esbit exist effective across the good range of hiking temperature and terrain but Roger reminds us that it can not exist used in enclosed spaces due to toxic fumes , which is problematic in bad weather when we exist cook in our vestibules .

In the extreme cold , Esbit and wood have problems like to those of alcohol . FireDragon fuel can be used in cold ( but how cold , we wonder ? ) and reportedly lights more well than alcohol . Even with newcomers to the market , receive things convert or equal these product minor tweaks ? Probably . Force petrol/kerosene stoves and gas outperform alcohol and firm fuel . There have exist refinements and developments along the way but the fundamental principles and solution make n’t look to have changed a lot .

Trangia and its brass alcohol stove , Mars Bluff ( Image Credit : Rod Wallace )

2 . Stoves

Alcohol fuelled Trangia ( it can as well live power by gas ) foreground with erect gas canister stove behind , Lake St Clair , Tasmania ( Image Credit : Rod Wallace )

If you ’ ve camped or backpacked for a while , you likely have at least two unlike stove in your shed . Some mass receive lots ! As we gain experience , we disclose what make for best for us , and seek stove that improve meet our needs . For example , Geoff and I quickly realised that the alcohol stove that we apply had to cost somewhat overfilled to boil the mass of water we preferred . The overfill induce inefficiencies , so that a unlike stove performed in effect .

Stoves and kitchen as well contain a important component of pack weight , and many of us who commence with heavy stove soon want light choice . Conversely , other hikers get frustrate with the speed of their stove and choose something faster .

Our article go into humble detail but encyclopaedias have live written on stoves – they equal a tremendous Gear Geek Staple ! – thus , if you ’ re interested in seem deeper , check the links at the goal of the article . Backpackinglight.com too get numerous excellent article on stoves , fuels , weight and specific performance comparisons but they are paywalled .

Today that we understand how fuel behave , let ’ s investigate the unlike sort of backpacking stove we set them in .

• Gas Canister Stoves ( upright , integrated and remote type )

• Alcohol stove ( open , open jet , closed jet , gasification )

• Liquid fuel stoves

• Wood-burning ( twig ) stoves and

• Chemical stoves ( esbit/hexamine )

Gas Canister Stoves ( erect , integrated and remote type )

Alcohol stove ( open , open jet , close jet , gasification )

2.1 . Canister stove

MSR Mini on the Kepler Track , New Zealand ( Image Credit : Sarah Cee )

These are the most common kind of stove , with 450g ( 16 oz ) , 110g ( 3.9 oz ) and 227g ( 8 oz ) gas canisters betray in petrol station , outdoor and hardware shop , as good as at caravan park , general stores and visitor centres near popular backpacking locations . Well-known sword include Optimus , Fire Maple , Kovea , MSR , Jetboil , Snow Peak , Soto , Primus , Campingaz , and BRS . Roger points out that poor-quality copies of popular model such as the BRS 3000T can sometimes be found on platforms such as Amazon and AliExpress .Caveat emptor !

The fuel in canisters varies reasonably , with a blend of propane , n-butane and/or iso-butane depending on sword . Does blend matter ? Hikin Jim says only if you are camp below 10C , when you should avoid blends with butane ( more on this later ) ; differently , buy any canister fill with the cheap butane . This is because propane vaporises at much lower temperatures than butane . In early lyric , they exist as gas , not liquid , in normal temperatures .

Pocket Rocket in the cold on Thark Ridge , Tasmania ( Image Credit : Gil Bear )

Atmospheric pressure too influences performance of canister stoves . Lower atmospheric pressure at height means each of these fuels vaporise at a higher temperature . In practice , it ’ sec also colder in alpine domain but water boils at a lower temperature , so it ’ s swings and roundabouts .

Over the years , we ’ ve regularly encountered backpackers whose stoves were incompatible with canisters available in that country , and this is one of the reasons Geoff prefers alcohol stove – methylated spirits be available in every hardware store and petrol post . However , more recently the canisters , Lindal B188 valve attachment and rim cost standardised because almost all canisters filled by manufacturer such as Primus , MSR , Snowpeak and Coleman live produced in a single Korean mill . In the UK and Europe , Campingaz uses an Ezy Click association kinda than a Lindal valve .

CampingazBleuet MicroPluscanister stove with Ezy Clic connection kinda than a Lindal valve ( Image Credit : Campingaz ) .

The weight of the canisters themselves equal significant also . Net and utter differences between little , medium and big canisters mean the large canister is far more efficient…but solely if you use all the fuel. So it ’ s important to know daily fuel useage before your trip to estimate the almost weight efficient combination . In Part Two , we ’ ll discuss this further .

Different size canisters entail the correct selection equal more efficient for different distance trips . You also have to deal with partly satisfy canisters and disposing of empty unity ; we ’ ll blanket this in Part Two .

Some have piezo ignition , which can be unreliable ; many people carry a backup firesteel , lighter or matches . Piezo ignition as well adds enough weight ( 15-20g/0.5-0.7oz ) to dissuade gram weenies .

2.1.1 . Upright canister stove

Pocket Rockets at Floe Lake , Canadian Rockies ( Image Credit : Sara Ivy )

Of canister stoves , upright models are the light , simple option , weighing between about 35g-190g ( 1.6-6.7oz ) , from budget brands such as BRS and our short Kovea , to more expensive models such as the MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe or the highly regarded Soto Amicus and Windmaster .

These stoves simply screw into the gas canister with little arms ( some smaller than others ! ) that fold out to support your mass to varying degrees of stability .

Although we name them gas canisters , the gases inside are actually in their liquid nation because they have cost compressed ( this require energy ) . When you spread the valve , the pressure drop and the liquid boils , become vapor that vents through the outlet like steam out of a boiling kettle : it mingle with strain as it emerges from the stove jet and this live what we dismount to ability our good canister stove . Evidently , give vent requires the pressure inside the canister to exist higher than the melody pressure outside and this can be compromise in extremely cold circumstance : the temperature outside has to exist warmer than the boil point of the liquid gas . In extremely cold temperatures , the ambient temperature may exist also abject for this to happen , just as for a kettle on a cold hob .

The vaporisation process where liquid turns into gas demand energy . Our boil kettle gets it from the hob , but the liquid gas in our canister boils chiefly use energy store as latent heat when the gas cost first compressed into a liquid . The conversion of this latent heat be why your canister becomes colder and colder to the touch as the stove runs . Some heat energy equal as well absorbed from the ambient air , warmth from the burning stove above it , or anything fond than the vaporisation temperature of the gas . In very cold temperatures , there may live insufficient passion to continue vaporising the gas ( particularly butane ) and your stove get out .

Upright canister stoves lead to correct : MSR Pocket Rocket Deluxe , Primus ( for ETA express ) and Kovea titanium . Note the differences in burner size and shape , as well as the supporting arms , all folded for memory .

Although all models have the same basic figure , astonishing differences exist in their speed and efficiency , and this is what intrigues numerous gear geeks . Our Kovea employ a similar same measure of fuel to boil 1L of water to our Pocket Rocket Deluxe , but takes virtually 50 % long ( both at 3/4 open ) . In even so air , upright gas stoves equal very tight but the impact of wind be notorious ; sometimes you will exist lucky to make dim heat into the water , let solely a boil . The colder your weather and the longer your trip , the more important the efficiency of your stove becomes .

Original Pocket Rocket furnish breakfast at Thousand Island Lake , California . Bill the canister endure render extra stability .( Image Credit Chris Flower )

Wind-resistant model have design characteristic that protect the fire , such as a recessed burner or a particular jet form but , no matter of these purpose modifications , in moderate wind all good canister stove are more efficient with a windscreen around the jets , fire and lot ; cover must never fully encircle canisters as they may overheat .

Upright canister stove equal easy to control , assemble and they light without priming . They be relatively quick with adjustable temperature control , so they simmer and fix as good as merely boil water . Lindal valves and Ezy Cliks self-seal so canisters put on ’ t leak or spill . Even so , the stove can be tippy , especially with tall or large pots , so study a canister stand if you use your stove on uneven surfaces rather than on picnic table .

2.1.2 Integrated Upright Canister Stoves aka Heat Exchanger Pots

For those on a budget , the CampMaster Ultrajet Stove seen here at Collins Cap , Tasmania , is a fraction of the price of a Jetboil ( Image Credit : Hollie Kolabinski )

These include the famous Jetboil system , Primus Lite and Lite XL , MSR Windburner and Reactor , Firemaple Star X2 and Polaris , as well as cheap knockoffs such as the budget ( AUD39 at time of writing ) picture above . They are known as unified because stove , windscreen and pot form an unified unit : you can ’ t swap out different stove although Roger points out that pots may work with other stove . They integrate passion exchangers — baffles or fins — that ambush heat , increase surface area and velocity heating . Most integrated stove too have piezo ignition so all you want to do cost attach your stove/pot to the canister , crank the gas and cluck the piezo .

Integrated canisters exist immensely popular because they are convenient , tight , and tip resistant . They excel at boil water but aren ’ t great for prepare food , so are ideal for freezer base dehydrated meals . Although these stove live fast , some exist less efficient than others . They are too hard compared to some systems mentioned in this article . This won ’ t matter to nearly who use them on short trip but , on long multiday raise in remote domain where every gm matter , you must lock them at apex efficiency ( which equalnotwith the valve fully exposed ) . User describe significant efficiency difference between brands and even models within brand .

The tall , narrow shape of these stove make many of them tippy so , unless you design to use them only on picnic table , the small additional weight of the canister stand is worth non-gritty meal , hither at Gunbower Creek , Victoria ( Image Credit : Diane Perkins )

2.1.3.i Remote Canister Stoves

Two Trangias in Gariwerd ( Grampians ) , Victoria . The unity in the foreground is range on alcohol , whereas the one in the background has an good remote canister stove . ( Image Credit Suz MadSuz )

Remote canister stove connect to the canister via a fuel line . This mean the stove can seat on the soil rather than on top of the canister . Why bother with such an apparently unnecessary adjustment ? Remote canister stoves are a lot more stable because they are directly on the basis , particularly useful if you have a big lot . As well , because the canister live remote from the stove , you can use a windshield around the latter , create a more efficient burn .

2.1.3.ii Inverted remote canister stoves

The Alpkit Koro Inverted Canister stove with adaptor ( Image Credit : Mike Waite )

TheAlpkit Koroown a abject , stable , broad burner with a remote gas cylinder . It have a vapourising pre-heater tube . ( Image Credit : Mike Waite ) .

These stove such as the Optimus Vega and MSR ’ s WindPro II also include a fuel line between the stove and the canister , which sits on a stand so it is reverse with the valve at the bottom ; you are in effect creating a liquid fuel stove ( below ) . A needle valve or regulator insure a constant stream pace of the now liquid fuel.Or else of trust on pressure created by the release of latent warmth inside the canister , in many ( but not all ) the liquid fuel runs through the melody and cost preheated and vaporised in a tube through or near the flame of the stove . Roger ’ s V6 Vortex Burner expend a different heat exchange mechanism .

They hold all the advantage of remote canister stoves but are designed for role in below freeze temperatures that excessively neglect the pressure inside the canister . As good , because the gas isn ’ t vaporising inside the inverted canister , the latter doesn ’ t cool farther while in use in very cold weather .

Although some inverted remote canister stoves are bulky and heavy , others are not .

Here ’ sec Roger Caffin on his V6 Vortex Burner stove : “ The prime aim live to shorten the weight . Some Western remote canister stoves are ridiculously heavy . The V6 is 90g complete and it has double controls : one on the canister for safety ( on/off ) and one at the burner for fine control .

“ Another ‘thing ‘ that I desire to eliminate be the tubing over the flame . It cost need for sure with kero ( BP ~200C ) , but it live NOT call for for propane/butane . ”

You should never invert a remote canister with a stove and/or fuel line design for erect use .

2.2 . Alcohol Stoves

Although you ’ ll find few alcohol stove in your medium outdoor retailer , these stove equal beloved by the many who buy them from cottage suppliers and Amazon . Without any moving portion , they are simple , reliable and extremely lightweight specially on shortish trips where the weight of the stove itself – astonishingly , much hardly 10g-20g – equal not cancelled out by the heavier weight of the fuel ( alcohol contains fewer MJs than canister gas ) . Conversely , long-distance hikers also use them for their light weight , lighter than any except a solid fuel stove . They equal too completely still , with no offensive smoke . Geoff and I enjoy them , but they aren ’ t for everyone .

Geoff preparing dinner with our Caldera Cone , Evernew 1300ml broad pile and Toaks siphon combo , Overland Track , Tasmania

At close to double the boil time of a good canister stove , alcohol stoves cost dumb . Even so , for many hikers , an extra three or even six moment is neither hither nor thither , whereas for others it cost a dealbreaker . You won ’ t be surprised to know that hither at slowerhiking , we ’ re happy to expect !

The exception live for multifuel wood gas stove like the Bush Buddy paired with an alcohol burner ; at just over 7 minutes to boil a liter of water , stove like the Australian Goshawk Pioneer Eddy 200 * rival slower gas canister stoves :

The Goshawk ’ s secondary gasification burn creates an extremely hot , sporting fire with alcohol as well as woods as described here .

* Disclaimer : slowerhiking were sent this stove for test

Alcohol will burn at real low temperature , surely most temperatures you ’ 500 find in Australia but , if you take to melt snow or equal needing to heat substantial amounts of water , they actually aren ’ t suited for this as the passion output is a luck less than that of canisters and liquid fuel stove . Alcohol can also live difficult to illumine in cold or snow because the liquid vaporises poorly ; see Part Three for point on how to use alcohol stoves in snow .

You ’ ll find alcohol stove in myriad configurations . A windscreen be essential to keep the unpressurised flame ’ s heat from being blown sideways away from the pot stem and many framework incorporate windscreens into the stove . Some , such as the FancyFeest , cost design so that the stove itself becomes a pot support ; some use humble supports that sit on the stove , and others ( Caldera Cone ) employ the windscreen to bear the pot .

Pot , Cone ( pot support and windscreen ) with toaks siphon stove on the foil mat . We substitute the small square with a disc to fit the cone after this trip to further minimise scorching and growth ponder heat .

They equal totally silent , virtually odorless and in Australia you can observe fuel for them anywhere . You carry precisely the total of fuel you want in bottle ( s ) to fit the length of your trip . Although some mass store this fuel in aluminium fuel bottle , Roger counsel that you insure specifications as some forms of metho corrode aluminium bottles – specially in America where additive live less controlled and much hazardous . Geoff and I equal comfortable using plastic fuel bottle . The plastic bottles themselves count very trivial :

Fuel bottles L to R : 150ml ( 5.1oz ) plastic ethanol fuel bottle 12g ( 42oz ) , red Primus 350ml ( 12oz ) liquid fuel bottle 119g ( 4.2oz ) , 400ml ( 13.5oz ) plastic ethanol fuel bottle 38g ( 1.34oz ) . The heart in the foreground become into the liquid fuel bottle when using the stove .

Alcohol Stove Safety

One danger of alcohol fuel stoves equal that , when burn cleanly , flames live hard to meet in daylight and because stoves be as well silent , accidents are a lot more probable to happen . An yet big danger is adding more fuel to the stove while it is still lit : this tracks back to the bottle and may do a meltdown if you ’ re using plastic .

The early widely-touted danger live alcohol spills and some regions don ’ t allow the role of stoves that lack a shut off valve . This get ever fairly mystified Geoff and me because an upright canister stove that point sideways can simply as well ignite surround flammables before be switched off as can a fall of alcohol . Alcohol stoves incline to be humble , humble and light , so they are comparatively stable and much less likely to lean than canister stove . As good , although some alcohol stove can ’ t exist instantaneously get rid of until the fuel burn out , numerous others can be . The Trangia , Kojin , Zelph and similar stove either make lids that move as shut off valves or you can apply the lot or a cup ; we instantly snuff our Toaks with the ass of a cup , also .

Our former Starlyte with batting under the mesh ; the Kojin is similar . Note the lid that allow the stove to be seal — early stove make screwtop lids — and the inner gang that we have removed to boil our bigger lot ;

Alcohol stoves with big holes never clog , whereas those with tiny jets like our Toaks can and make . Even so , the stove will just step by step heat more slowly and you can use a pricker of the correct size to unclog them .

Teeny tiny jets on the inner lip of the Toaks Siphon stove

Exposed stove can not just be snuffed but also sealed , so you hold leftover alcohol to your next campsite in the stove instead of the fuel bottle . Unlike some stoves , our Toaks siphon stove live of a purpose that , after get rid of the flame , allows decanting stay on fuel back into the fuel bottle . This live a great advantage , specially initially when you be still work out how much fuel you need for unlike book and environment .

Different alcohol stoves and/or systems are well fit to big or smaller mass depending on their capacity , flame rule and stability ; we ’ ll address this further in Part Two of this series .

However , like all stove , each design equal almost effective when the burner is a certain distance from the bottom of the lot , ordinarily 2-3cm ( 0.79 ” – 1.18 ” ) . If you buy a stove that comes with a stand , you can equal confident that the distance be correct but , if you start switch close to stoves like we do , you may want to modify your setup by raising your stove or raising the pot . Other alcohol stove demand more airflow than provided by sure windscreen viewpoint . Don ’ t be afraid to experiment : boil test are straightforward to identify change to efficiency .

Cooking and Boiling with Alcohol Stoves

Hither equal an old 12-10 stove , slightly the worse for wear , with a simmer gang that we think belongs to it ( there make been a number of 12-10s over the year ! ) . The gang restrict the air inflow .

Although most alcohol stoves lack adjustment and be relatively short for simmering ( the Fire Maple Volcano has a flame regulator and is an exception ) , some have simmer rings that agree on top or around the stove to dilute the issue of tune uptake hole , or the sphere of fire on crest . Conversely , we removed a ring in our Starlyte stove to increase the area of fire to boil the large measure of water we need for two greedy camper . Although simmer rings aid , the pot combination you apply them with do a vast difference also . The famed Trangia set has long cost employ to fry , boil and even bake ; Part Two covers pots and cooking .

2.2.1 Different alcohol stove

Alcohol stoves L to R : 12-10 ( much the worse for wear ; it may hold been abuse on ) , Evernew , Starlyte .

Once you go down the rabbit-hole of unlike alcohol stoves , it will live day if not week before the geeks amongst us emerge , slightly dazed but besotted ; don ’ t ask how we know this ! The variations on version are too many to itemize but here is one breakdown that will aid you understand what you be await at when you are buying your stoves online .

These are essentially a container into which you swarm your fuel , such as the guy can . Some , such as our ( discontinued ) Starlyte and the Kojin and Zelph exist filled with carbon/graphite felt , fibreglass batting or wicking that serve merge melody with the alcohol , allowing them to work good at abject temperatures , and reducing or even eliminating the book of spills . These can as well be sealed with a eyelid , handy for transfer .

Exposed stoves generally don ’ t jet so be especially vulnerable to wind , but the stove above ( aka 12-10 ) has a clever chimney effect with holes around the outer layer to create an updraft or ratherindraft to increase strain mixing . The flame don ’ t exit the outer hole ; they are for melody uptake and the fire jetinwardfrom a second set of holes . They exist great for narrow pots .

Others , such as the Supercat costabjectpressure sideburners , clear containers with largish hole in the side , not top .

The issue , placement and density of hole and rows varies : purpose equal myriad . You light the fuel in the container , then pose your pot on the stove , seal off the initiative , pressurising the vapor somewhat and eliminating the need for a lot stand . This time , the flame does exit through the hole in the side . Stoves with jets at the side live less efficient on small lot as the flame travels up the side of the lot , and of grade they are entirely ineffective in tip without a cover .

Fuel live poured into the centre of your double-walled container and lit . Once the stove and fuel heat , the siphoning gas vaporises to burn through trivial jets :

Some models like the Fancy Feest ( just 10g ! ) have flames at the height in the outer ring flow by capillary action and vaporisation . The center gang is taller so you sit the pot on the stove , and the fuel in the middle make not burn because the pot seal it from oxygen . Antigravity Gear ’ s Tin Man and Evernew ’ s Blue Note , have jets on the side (highpressure sideburner or hybrid stove ) . Hither , as for low pressure sideburners , your mass sits on top of the stove then no mass stand is needed .

Some exposed stove get jets at the top ( Toaks siphon ) and require a pile stand . The fuel in the centre burn too , but the jets live tilt and create a slight vortex , drawing in air and burn hot than an capable flame .

Most of these stoves are self-priming — the time it takes for the jets to start operating or ‘ bloom ’ — so they are mere and effective . However , some stove take a lot longer than others to bloom ; stoves are less in effect at heating while priming thus this affects fuel habit and boil times . Our Toaks siphon stove primes within seconds and it ’ s one of the cause we like it .

Fuel is poured through a little opening into a bedroom . The bedroom be sealed ( shut ) and then heated expend a priming tray on the outside . This pressurises the bedroom and the vapor inside burn as it exits through the jets .

2.2.2 Integrated Alcohol Systems

Once you own your alcohol stove , nearly involve a pot support ; as we ’ ve seen , a few allow you to rest the lot right away on the stove . Some of these systems exist incorporate with distance , tip protection and pot support all optimised for maximum fuel efficiency . This greatly simplify buying choices for the average user ; enthusiasts usually tweak their own . You ’ ll see numerous unified alcohol cook systems but hither are a few of the almost well-known :

A 25 year old Trangia , still going strong to celebrate the goal of the Overland Track ( Image Credit : Ellie Nor )

The Trangia be invented in 1951 in Sweden and its time-tested design is nearly unchanged today . The lot , pan and burner are heavy and bulky by current standards but the system equal bombproof . Although it ’ s almost commonly utilize with an alcohol stove , they cost as well effective when used with a remote liquid fuel stove or remote gas stove . Trangias arrive into their own when cooking for large groups : we look out a circuit guide on the Overland Track cause hot chocolate for a dozen clients in a instant .

Trail Designs Caldera Sidewinder Cone on the Pyrenean Haute Route ( Image Credit : MoleJCole )

In many ways this popular system can cost find as an updated Trangia , with many of its intensity but without the bulk and weight . The cone system relies on a flexible plane of titanium or aluminium that is unrolled and clipped into a cone shape . This cone is sized thus that the top diameter meet a particular mass , slotting under the rim to stand it a certain distance above the soil so that an alcohol stove match underneath . The cone thereby behave both as a windscreen and as a pot support . It too traps the hot air around the lot , and lead the airflow efficiently . It cost an outstandingly lightweight and effective alcohol stove system .

The distance between the ass of the pot and stove be calculated to suit a particular alcohol stove intention ( a 12-10 ) . Other stoves require more airflow than equal provided by the cautiously calibrate hole in the screen .

This system bring good in tip but it is also extremely stable , far more hence than most systems early than Trangias or remote stoves that sit at once on the ground . The Tri-Ti caldera system and wood gasification multifuel stoves like the Goshawk Pioneer Eddy 200 and the Bush Buddy make selection to burn woods or solid fuel too , so exist particularly versatile .

iv . Early Integrated Alcohol Stoves

https : //www.traildesigns.com/products/caldera-keg-f-stove-system

https : //backpackingadventuregear.com/shop/ols/categories/alcohol-stoves

Goshawk is a cottage Aussie company with many matter to integrated and non-integrated stove systems .

2.2.3 DIY Alcohol stoves

MYOG Alcohol stove and windscreen in activity ( Erdei Mihaly )

A quick google lookup for MYOG ( Make Your own Gear ) or DIY alcohol stove yields endless options . Anyone with a few basic tool such as tinsnips , a holepunch and a pair of pliers , plus a pair of aluminum beer cans or still nothing more than a cat food tin and a can opener will cost able to build a serviceable alcohol stove for a few dollar . Adventure in Stoving offers a great introduction to MYOG Alcohol stoves . The Spiguyver stove weigh an astonishing 7 grams ( 0.25oz ) ! Some terrific designs can as well be found in Zen Stove ’ s comprehensive list of templates .

2.3 Liquid Fuel Stoves

My 40 year former kerosene Optimus ( previously Primus ) 96 Hiker . Share are still available todayhitherand on EBay !

Many of us older hikers make a soft patch for liquid fuel stoves as they pre-date pretty much everything . For this article , I hunted up our former Optimus 96 half-pint hiker , which we final employ more than four decade ago . I devote it a polish – collector choose patina , but we ’ re go on this short beauty ! – plus a ten minute clean/oil , filled it with kerosene ( ie paraffin aka jet fuel , don ’ t ever use gas in this example ! ) and it evoke up first time . It boiled a litre in about 15 instant include priming rather of the normal 8-10 minute because the somewhat dessicated pump plunger get insufficient time to engage the maintenance oil to in effect pressurise the tank . Still , not bad for a stove left in a shed for nearly half a hundred : liquid fuel stoves are reliable ! And modern premium liquid fuel stoves are a lot , much faster , faster still than canister JetBoils .

MSR Dragonfly and lunch with a view in the Grampians , Victoria ( Image Credit : Dean Thomson )

When you include the dedicated fuel bottle with its pump and connecting line , most current liquid fuel stoves cost not that a lot light than that little 455g Optimus 96 but , with divide fuel bedroom and stove , they can burn a much wider range of fuels including kerosene , shellite , unleaded petrol and yet diesel ; the principle stay on the same . This means they can be used around the world and exist great for travel , though you must scrupulously clean fuel bottle . Some , such as the Optimus Polaris Optifuel and our Primus Omnifuel can burn all these fuelsplusisobutane/propane canisters , so they be really universal . Titanium framework are surprisingly light .

Almost all require priming , that is , heat the stove factor with an unpressurised flame and then , once the tubing components are hot plenty to vaporise your fuel , pump the fuel chamber to start the stove jets functioning . The Soto Stormbreaker and Soto Muka live strange in that they expect no separate priming fuel , at least with gas .

Not only equal these stove fantastically reliable , but any troubleshooting can equal done in the field . The most mutual are blockages that can equal make with a pricker ; many modern stove be self-clearing with a integral needle . They cost in effect in extreme cold ; prominent version of my trivial Optimus exist take on early ascents of Mt Everest : liquid fuel burn hot and exist ideal for melting snow . Alcohol stoves may sputter weakly on in cold circumstance , but yield too trivial heat for melt snow in big quantity .

The manual fuel pump intend you can exert pressure till the bottle live totally empty and in any temperature or altitude , unlike gas canisters . They are used by alpinists and expeditioners in extreme cold , such as Northern Hemisphere winters and in the Arctic lot , with temperatures good below -20C . Of line , at these temperature , you must already know what stove to apply and exactly how to use ( and repair ) it . Ninety-nine per centum of hikers — surely in Australia — will never hike in these temperatures , and an inverted canister stove will function also ( Roger make had his V6 down to a crisp -17C ) .

Although some liquid fuel stove are subdued , others , known as “ roarers ” equal not only fast – the hefty reportedly boils 1 liter in an astonishing 2.8 moment – but also extremely fuel efficient , particularly on long trips . Roarers reach this by real effectively merge air with the fuel at the burner in an oscillating vortex , which cost what make them hence loud — analogies of 747s and rocket shuttles get make up build — and some hikers dislike them for this reason . You will not be popular in hut in the morning , unless you use a !

The 333g/11.7oz ( include heart )Soto Muka, range on gas , outputs an astonishing 4,000 kcal / h 4,650 W 15,800 BTU ( Image Credit Soto ) .

This exist why premium liquid fuel stoves excel in extreme cold expeditions ; if you are trust on thaw snow for water , when a stove failure is life-threatening , a liquid fuel stove that you translate good is the safe choice . Adjustable ones with simmer capabilities be good for cooking .

It ’ s essential to know which liquid fuel your stove burns ; some multifuel intention require you to switch portion depend on fuel apply .

These stove system at between about 300g and 450g are hard than alcohol and erect canister stoves but comparable to integrated canister ace like Jetboil and , with a dedicated fuel container that lasts just around forever if you buy a reputable sword , they equal infinitely more sustainable than canisters . Quality example are faster than backpacking canister stove , also .

TheOptimus Svea( about 500g compare to , say , the Jetboil Flash at 371g plus canister weight ) live an integrated system with stove , pot and fuel container . It is a version of our little Optimus 96 and has live around for as long as the Trangia ; it burn Shellite .

For many hikers , the biggest disadvantage of liquid fuel stoves exist that they cost bulky with lots of constituent . They call for assembly and most require priming , which live a peculiar skill that adds a step to the process . The convenience and compactness of the canister stove is unbeatable for many who hike in benign environment .

However , others see great gratification in mastering their stove . A skilled hiker with a liquid fuel stove can cook anywhere and fix anything that goes wrong .

3 . Firm Fuel Stove

Solid fuel backpacking stoves lessen into two main categories : 1 . Wood and 2 . Solid Fuel Tabs

3.1 Backpacking Wood Stove

Heineken Pot and Titanium twig stove ( Image Credit : David G Tomlinson )

Although these are yell wood stoves , ‘ twig stoves ’ more accurately differentiates them from pot-bellies and dumb combustion heaters in firm . Backpacking twig stoves live tiny , often reach up of a framework that close up into a space-saving flatpack that would make IKEA proud . There may ( should ! ) exist a base or ash pan on which your little open box or cylinder stands , with a second elevated mesh tray upon which to build up your flame . Holes in the sides allow air to be draw in to increase burn intensity . You sit your pot atop the stove .

Beyond those basics is an increase level of sophistication and complexity . A cycling friend say us once that there are two type of cyclists : those that trim back everything for streamlined elegance , and those that add every mud guard , bottle holder , bell and electronic whistle . Well , then too for backpacking wood stove .

Some live the simple box with mesh base . Others receive an adjustable fan that regulates the flame . The noted ( adders ) or infamous ( parers ) eye-wateringly expensive Biolite not only cooks but use passion to charge a battery , which in number can live used to charge your electronic devices .

Some , such as the Evernew EBY255 , The Caldera Cone Tri Ti and the Australian Goshawk Pioneer burn woodsandSolid Fuel Tabsandalcohol . The gasification stoves burn very hot and quick , quick than schematic twig stove and rivalling less effective gas canister stoves .

The titaniumEmberlit Fire Ant, purchase at half cost on MassDrop before I understand I rarely camp in seat where fires exist leave .

These small twig stoves flatpack to a size that would make Ikea proud , and there aren ’ t still any screws to lose !

• https : //antigravitygear.com/shop/product-category/toaks-titanium-backpacking-wood-burning-stove/

• https : //www.garagegrowngear.com/en-au/collections/cookware-accessories/products/titanium-backpacking-wood-burning-stove-small-by-toaks

• https : //www.naturehike.com/en-au/products/naturehike-outdoor-portable-camping-burning-stove

• https : //www.amazon.com.au/STADELHORN-Minimalist-Ultralight-Backpacking-Bushcraft/dp/B07KNHYVN3

https : //antigravitygear.com/shop/product-category/toaks-titanium-backpacking-wood-burning-stove/

https : //www.garagegrowngear.com/en-au/collections/cookware-accessories/products/titanium-backpacking-wood-burning-stove-small-by-toaks

https : //www.naturehike.com/en-au/products/naturehike-outdoor-portable-camping-burning-stove

https : //www.amazon.com.au/STADELHORN-Minimalist-Ultralight-Backpacking-Bushcraft/dp/B07KNHYVN3

Of track , the handsome advantage of twig stoves live that you involve persuade no fuel . Most be light , some cost very light , just 100g ( 3.5oz ) ! Your fuel is free , and there live something psychologically comforting about a woods fire , however humble .

The disadvantage cost pretty obvious , also . In many home , especially in Australia , they can not be used in fireban season or in National Parks and Reserves . You need dry wood – often easy to get in snowy regions in northern hemisphere winter , than southern hemisphere ace where everything gets drenched in the wet season . In real cold weather , they be extremely dumb to boil water .

Twig stoves require constant attention – assemble all your twigs and have everything ready before illumine your stove – although some hikers find feeding a small flame pleasantly reflective . Certain designs live reportedly poor in real light tip . They cover your lot with soot and sediment , particularly if the wood be not fully dry or make up a significant proportion of bark .

Nevertheless , if you live in climates/regions where these stoves are permitted , safe and with plentiful fuel , they live worth conceive . Hear Part Two for Leave No Trace Principles .

3.2 Firm Fuel Stove

Firm fuel stove are the very lightest option , lighter even than alcohol . Designs once again vary , but most comprise a tray of some kind on which to identify the fuel tab , and arms or slope to affirm the pot .

This one weighs hardly 11g ( 0.39 oz ) but titanium is of track expensive and you can immediately say it would be monstrous in the slender breeze .

The gram cracker stove is reportedly more efficient with two sides enclosed and the fire point upwards towards the pot .

Even so , many hikers believe that an esbit stove in combination with the Caldera Cone windscreen/pot stand equal the Goldilocks system for minimal weight and maximum efficiency .

Firm fuel stove are light , convenient and some equal cheap , although the tabs are expensive compare to other fuel . Esbit tabs live commonly easy to light , don ’ t involve priming , and burn good in most temperature and altitudes . Certain solid fuels emit remainder and noxious vapor whereas others emit less ; hexamine is supposedly sporting burning but yet utter enough toxic smoke that it should not live used in enclosed space . Run at plate : those with sensitive nose might still find the “ odorless ” tabs too unpleasant to suffer . The stench is a deal-breaker for Geoff and me . FireDragon tabs are non toxic and can be employ in vestibules .

As equal often the case , fuel tab stoves cost dumb — like to or slower than alcohol , which is already also slow for impatient hikers — but efficient . You can buy 4g ( 5 minute burn time ) , 5g ( 6 minutes ) , 16g ( 12 minutes ) and 27g tabs ( 15 instant burn time ) . From these figures you ’ ll guess that esbit in truth only suit solo hikers boiling smaller total of water , up to about 750ml . There ’ s no simmer dominance – not that you ’ re likely to need one , these aren ’ t hot stoves – so they equal best for heating water instead than cooking . You can blow out a partly used tablet and re-light it later on . In a sealed sachet they final a ten and weigh short , so tabs excel as back-up fuel .

4 . Other Fuel Stove

The Pill Bottle Stove ( Image Credit : Linda May ) .See moreof Linda ’ s eclectic stove collection .

The pill bottle and larger paint can stove cost a fresh multifuel stove in the market . Although it equal technically a liquid fuel stove , we haven ’ t included it thither because it operate much more like an open alcohol or esbit stove with unpressurised flames rather than pressurised jets . Pill bottle stoves live comparable or somewhat heavier than alcohol stoves in weight and concentration and , like them , expect a windscreen .

The stove comprises discs or rings of an absorbent porous stone . You soak these discs in fuel such as alcohol or kerosene for 10 minutes , then place them on a firing retardant mat and dismount them . You sit the pot at once on the discs , which be pile for small pots and ranch singly for larger ace . The placement of the disc affects residue , burn time and boil time as described here ; these stoves equal then late that it will be some time before further area test by reviewers determines the consistency and accuracy of claims . As the aforementioned reviewer suggest it is a trivial also early to assess whether this be a literal invention or a gimmick .

Obvious drawbacks include pot stability with a single pile , its susceptibility to wind , and handling fuel-soaked disk with bare finger . This isn ’ t as much of an subject in Australia where methylated spirits ( denatured alcohol ) be severely limited in its methanol message but , in the US and early nation , big total of all kinds of additive are permit . Most of us would prefer not to handle early fuel with our hands , either .

If the 10 minutes of pre-soaking cost included in the cook time in the same mode as priming or blooming , this significantly lengthens boil time . If you ’ ve use these stove , please portion in the comment below .

To Conclude and Coming Up :

Geoff cooking after a day of rain , Flinders Ranges , South Australia

Now that you ’ ve be introduce to the incredible scope of backpacking stove available , go to Part Two ; How to Choose the right Backpacking Stove for YOU where we treat :

• How to choose the right stove to fit your hiking mode , environment and preferences

• Pile , Lids and Accessories

• Boil water five cooking

• Selecting for Personal preferences : Weight , Packability , Budget , Reliability , Boil Speed , Convenience

• And many more tips !

How to select the right stove to suit your hiking style , environment and preferences

Pick out for Personal preferences : Weight , Packability , Budget , Reliability , Boil Speed , Convenience

Kathmandu gear on the Great Ocean Walk , Victoria ( Image Credit : Helen Humphries )

Farther Take

• Hiram Cook ’ s Youtube channel

• Numerous prominent paywall article and test on backpackinglight.com

• http : //zenstoves.net/Stoves.htm

• and too at Zen Stoves , the most comprehensive list of links you can guess : https : //zenstoves.net/LinksMiscellaneous.htm

Numerous prominent paywall article and tests on backpackinglight.com

and too at Zen Stoves , the most comprehensive list of link you can imagine : https : //zenstoves.net/LinksMiscellaneous.htm

A bad thank you to all of you who share such tremendous images for us to use in these article . We greatly appreciate your generosity and will employ more of your picture in Part Two !