For all outdoor adventures, the camping stove is one of the most important pieces of equipment. But how does this useful helper work? Are you looking for a camping stove guide? Then you will find what you're looking for in the following blog post.
We explain how it works and show you the most important criteria for selecting the right device - quickly, easily, and informatively!
Who is a camping stove suitable for?
The camping gas stove is a light and affordable companion for all outdoor fans who don't want to miss out on their warm meals and their morning coffee or tea. Whether you
- are going for a hike or picnic,
- spending a camping holiday with the family
- or traveling by bike.
The camping gas stove will not let you down. You will also surely make new friends if you are equipped with a gas stove at the next festival.
How do camping stoves work?
Unfortunately, this question cannot be answered generally, as the gas stove's functionality depends on the model. We need to dive a little deeper into the subject. Are you ready?
How does an alcohol camping stove work?
These models are also called storm stoves because they work reliably even under adverse conditions. For this, methylated spirits are filled into the appropriate container and ignited.
However, the alcohol camping stove is not one of the fastest. It takes a quarter of an hour to heat water and produces a lot of soot in the process.
How does a gas stove with a cartridge work?
With gas stoves with cartridges, the so-called silent burners are particularly popular as accessories for outdoor cooking . Here, the thread is simply screwed onto the gas cartridge and goes directly to the burner head.
These models are particularly efficient and also very easy to transport.
How does a solid fuel stove work?
Solid fuel stoves are very simply constructed and very robust. Even though they can be operated with all combustible materials (branches, pine cones, etc.), they are not necessarily the best camping stoves.
Solid fuel stoves require a lot of fuel with minimal efficiency.
How does a gasoline stove work?
As the name suggests, these camping stoves are operated with gasoline. They are considered extremely powerful and fast. Within a few minutes, gasoline stoves bring water to a boil – even in sub-zero temperatures.
Which camping stoves work in winter?
In winter, you should generally use a gas stove with a cartridge or a gasoline stove. The functional principle of our ultralight model is a highlight all year round.
Even on cold winter days, one liter of water boils within only 2.5 minutes. This way, you can quickly warm up with a hot tea or coffee.
What are the most important purchasing criteria for a camping stove?
With the wide selection and different functional principles of gas stoves, it is not easy to find the right model.
However, if you orient yourself on the following criteria, you will quickly find the right gas stove for your individual needs:
Performance
The performance indicates how quickly the gas stove can generate heat and how long you need for cooking with the gas stove. The performance is given in watts.
A high wattage also means a high gas consumption. Here, you should always set only the necessary power level with the regulator on the gas stove.
Fuel and cartridge
There are cheap plug-in or bayonet cartridges available for purchase, which are quite inexpensive at 1 to 2 euros. There are also so-called screw cartridges. These have a thread or valve and are somewhat more expensive. The gases used as fuel are
- Butane,
- Isobutane
- and Propane.
If you wish to use the gas stove in colder areas, you should avoid Butane.
While Butane becomes gaseous again at about 1 °C and Isobutane at about 12 °C, Propane changes from liquid to gaseous state already at about 42 °C.
Therefore, a high proportion of Propane, which must be stored under greater pressure, is advantageous in the gas mixture of your stove for operation at low temperatures.
Expert tip: On hikes & trekking tours at temperatures below 10 °C, you should always use a gas cartridge with a "winter gas" or "all-season" mixture.
Piezo ignition
The ignition creates a spark that ignites the gas. This means you don't need an external ignition source, like a lighter. Even in strong winds, you can rely on the piezo ignition.
Design
With a top-mounted stove, the cartridge and the stove are immediately connected. In this case, the gas cartridge usually also serves as the stand for the device. In contrast, with a gas stove with external gas supply, both parts are connected with a hose.
Number of flames
There are gas stoves with one and up to four flames. To carry as little as possible on a hike, one flame is completely sufficient. For a family vacation with a tent and car, you can consider whether you need multiple flames.
Weight
For a long hike, the weight of a gas stove should be kept within limits. There are models like our ultralight gas stove with titanium pot starting from about 50 to 70 grams.
Purpose
The other decisions are based on this criterion. It is necessary for you to be clear from the start about exactly what you want to use the gas stove for.
Safety
Gas stoves have a reputation for being very safe. It is important to have a safety ignition and, above all, both correct and safe handling.
Are gas stoves allowed everywhere?
Unfortunately, there is no clear answer to this question. Depending on which federal state you are in, the laws are very different.
In the forest, gas stoves are often prohibited. There are often special barbecue areas that can be used for the camping kitchen. Therefore, you should always inform yourself BEFORE your outdoor activities.
How much does a camping gas stove cost?
You can get gas stoves (without gas cartridge) starting from 15 € . There is a lot of room upwards. This is the lowest price and often also quality segment. It very much depends on the stability, size, weight, and accessories.
Conclusion
A gas stove is important equipment when camping and on longer hikes. Therefore, you should not skimp on your equipment. After all, the boost from a hot drink and a warm meal is of enormous importance.
Both give you the necessary strength and power for your outdoor adventure. If you value quality and durability, you should opt for a camping gas stove set .
The fast cooking system is ultra-light, small, and compact. Due to the high-quality construction, you will enjoy your outdoor kitchen for a long time. The gas stove's functionality is designed to be very easy, so you can prepare a quick meal without much fuss.
Thanks to the integrated heat exchanger and the windshield, the camping stove is suitable for any weather.
FAQ
Can you use a camping stove indoors?
A camping stove is designed for outdoor use and should preferably not be used indoors to avoid fires and suffocation. Especially with gas stoves, caution is advised. The odorless gas can displace oxygen in the room without you noticing. So better keep your hands off the camping stove indoors and in tents!
Can I repair a camping stove that no longer works myself?
We strongly advise against this to avoid serious burns and injuries. Repairing a defective camping stove should be left to the professionals. They are familiar with the gas stove's functionality and can help you quickly and easily.
How long does a gas cartridge last in a camping stove?
Unfortunately, this question cannot be answered generally, as it depends on the consumption. If you use your camping stove less frequently on a tour, the gas cartridge will naturally last longer. As a general rule of thumb: 230 grams of gas have an approximate burning duration of around 70 minutes.