There’s something magical about cooking and eating outside. Whether it’s the sizzle of a frying pan at sunrise or the comforting hiss of a burner as you brew a late-night hot chocolate under the stars, camping stoves play a pretty crucial role in making your outdoor adventures both comfortable and memorable.
But they can also be daunting if you're new to outdoor cooking, or aren't a hugely confident cook in the first place. What type of stove should you choose? Which fuel is best? How do you even turn the bloody thing on? Do you really need those expensive storm-proof matches? What's wrong with just cooking on a fire like a caveman?
Allow us to answer all those questions and more, with our guide to mastering your camping stove - written by our resident outdoor eating enthusiast.
Backpacking stoves vs. campsite stoves
Camping stoves broadly fall into two categories: lightweight backpacking stoves and larger, more robust campsite stoves. Your choice will depend on the type of adventure you’re planning.
Backpacking stoves are the minimalist's dream. They're designed to be compact and lightweight, perfect for anyone trekking long distances or trying to keep pack weight to a minimum. These stoves often have a single burner and fold down small enough to tuck into your palm.
Despite their size, they’re surprisingly efficient and can boil water in just a couple of minutes. Their no-frills design makes them easy to use, but their simplicity also means fewer bells and whistles—so forget about whipping up truly elaborate feasts like you might on a double burner (although with a bit of planning we can make pretty gourmet one-pot meals outdoors).
On the other hand, campsite stoves are the kitchen-in-a-box option for car campers and basecamp enthusiasts. These beasts often come with two burners, allowing you to make a sauce on one side while cooking some sort of carb on the other. They’re heavier and bulkier, but the extra features (wind guards, temperature control, and even grill plates) make campsite stoves a solid choice for groups or families who want a more home-from home camping experience.
Wait, what about a firepit?
Listen, pal. Firepits are awesome. I love them. I have three. But would I take it as my only source of heat to cook on? Absolutely not. For sitting around for the odd barbecue, they're great, but they don't come anywhere close to being as practical for cooking as gas, especially for quick morning coffees, or for that pasta dinner you want in 10 minutes rather than the hour it takes to light and burn down enough wood for it to be hot enough to cook on.
I'm not saying don't take a firepit. I'm saying take a gas stove too.
Fuel types: gas, liquid, and beyond
Your camping stove’s fuel source is just as important as the stove itself. Each type of fuel has its pros and cons, and choosing the right one depends on your location, climate, and personal preferences (i.e how much you value your eyebrows if you're cooking with an old petrol stove).
Gas canisters are by far the most common option. They’re clean, easy to use, and widely available. Most camping stoves designed for gas run on butane, propane, or a blend of the two. Butane canisters are lightweight and ideal for warmer climates, whereas propane is better for colder conditions because it performs well in freezing temperatures. If you're opting for a gas stove, make sure the canisters are compatible with your stove’s connection—some stoves screw directly onto canisters, while others require a hose and regulator.
Liquid fuels, such as white gas or kerosene, are more versatile and perform consistently in extreme cold and high-altitude environments. They’re a great choice for serious expeditions or remote adventures where gas canisters might be hard to find. Liquid fuel stoves tend to be bulkier and require a bit of maintenance (think priming and cleaning), but they’re dependable workhorses for off-grid explorers.
Alternative fuels like alcohol or solid tablets cater to ultralight backpackers or survivalists. While not as powerful or efficient as gas or liquid fuels, they’re incredibly lightweight and often don’t require specialised canisters. These are niche options but worth considering for short trips or minimalist setups where you still want a hot drink or a rehydrated meal at the end of a slog.
How to turn on a camping stove without a hitch
Here’s the golden question: how do you actually turn on a camping stove? Whether it’s a tiny backpacking burner or a campsite powerhouse, the basics are pretty straightforward.
For gas stoves, ensure you’re working in a well-ventilated area - never, ever, ever light a gas stove in a tent. Attach the gas canister securely to the stove or regulator, ensuring all connections are properly tightened. Open the valve slightly to release a small amount of gas, then use a lighter, match or built-in igniter to ignite the gas and create a flame. Once the burner is lit, you can adjust the flame size by turning the valve one way or the other (usually righty-tighty for less power, lefty loosey for more).
Liquid fuel stoves need a bit more prep. Start by filling the stove’s fuel can and securely attaching it to the . Many models require priming, which involves releasing a small amount of fuel into the system and lighting it to preheat the burner. Once the preheating is done, you can turn on the main fuel line and light the stove.
If your stove has an integrated igniter (lucky you!), you’ll usually just need to press or twist a button after opening the valve. Always read the manufacturer’s instructions before your first attempt: each model has its quirks, and it’s best to familiarise yourself with them in a stress-free environment, rather than fumbling in the dark while your stomach grumbles.
And even if you do have a built-in igniter, we'd still bring at least one other method of lighting up - be that matches or a lighter. As for whether those matches should be storm-proof: it's an easy answer. If you're backpacking with any chance of them getting wet, then yes, they should be stormproof. If you're going to guarantee to keep them dry, then no - use normal ones and save your cash.
Staying safe while using a camping stove
Safety is the cornerstone of any outdoor cooking adventure. A camping stove is a brilliant piece of kit, but it can be dangerous if not used correctly.
Always set up your stove on a flat, stable surface, away from anything flammable. This includes your tent, dry grass, or loose clothing. If you’re using a gas stove, double-check all connections for leaks before igniting. You can do this by listening for a hiss or applying soapy water to the connection points—bubbles indicate a leak.
Ventilation is key. Never use a camping stove inside your tent or in an enclosed space, as this can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Even if you’re desperate to get out of the wind or rain, cooking outside or under a well-ventilated tarp is the only safe option. If you don't have a tarp, rain it is. See above.
Lastly, keep a safe distance between your stove and food supplies, fuel canisters, and other gear. Spills and accidents happen, and you don’t want a flaming pan toppling onto your backpack or gas canisters. Always keep a pot lid or something to smother flames nearby, just in case.
Becoming a chef
Once you’ve got your stove set up and safely lit, the fun begins. Closed stove systems (also called personal cooking systems) like Jetboils stoves are perfect for boiling water fast - think instant noodles, dehydrated meals, or a mug of hot coffee on a chilly morning.
Cooking much else in these is a bit of a losing game, so if you want to do things on the go while still staying reasonably light - like boil pasta, make couscous or fry bacon or eggs - you're better off with a backpacking stove. To maximise efficiency, use a lid on your pot or pan and shield the stove from wind with a makeshift barrier.
Campsite stoves, with their extra burners ad optional grills, plus more powerful output and better simmer control, open the door to ambitious outdoor feasts. From pancakes and bacon to hearty stews and chunky soups, the world is your lobster. Just remember to keep cleaning supplies handy—cooking on a greasy burner is pretty unpleasant and can lead to less efficient use of fuel, not to mention a big ol' fire hazard.
What about cleanup?
Cleaning your camping stove after use might not be glamorous, but it’s an essential part of the process. Allow the stove to cool completely before dismantling it. For gas stoves, detach the canister and check for any residue or debris on the burner. Wipe down surfaces with a damp cloth and store everything in its designated bag or case. Liquid fuel stoves may require occasional deep cleaning to remove soot buildup, especially if you’ve been burning kerosene or unleaded petrol.
Final thoughts
Using a camping stove might feel intimidating at first, but with a little practice, and the built in expectation that things will take a little longer than at home, it becomes second nature. Choose a stove that matches your adventure style, get to grips with its fuel system, and prioritise safety at every step. Whether you’re boiling water for a quick cuppa or serving up a gourmet meal under the stars, your camping stove will soon be your favourite piece of outdoor kit.
So go on: embrace the hiss, the flicker, and the alchemy of cooking in the wild.
About the author
Fliss Freeborn is LFTO's resident camp cooking enthusiast. She is always found whipping up something something delicious outside, and will happily carry a wooden chopping board, chef's knife and cast iron skillet wherever she goes. Even if it's 5 miles down an inaccessible cliff path.