7 Helpful Criteria in Choosing a Suitable Backpacking Stove

To be able to select the most suitable camping stove, it is a must to consider these four helpful criteria:  safety,  weight,  environmental effect, easy to use and of good quality. Knowing the advantages and disadvantages of the fuel used is also important.

There are pros and cons in every device or equipment. That is the reason why people find it so hard to choose the best from all other camping stoves. You can, however, narrow down your options by gaining insight on the following factors:

Safety

As always, safety should be your priority. There are two types of backpacking stoves, pressurized and unpressurized. Both types can leak fuel, but whichever type depends on what kind of fuel is used.

Weight

The size and weight of the stove is also something you should consider, as this may hinder your camping activities. Find stoves that can be disassembled, folded and disconnected. Look for something that occupies as little space as possible.  Zenstoves says that wood and solar stoves are the lightest since it does not require fuel canisters. It can also cook up to more or less a dozen meals.  Alcohol stoves are lighter than other  gas stoves for trekking that cooks about less than fifty meals. Also, according to their interpretation, stoves using petrol can be very heavy.

Environmental effect

The by-products of fuel can cause pollution. While enjoying recreational activities like camping, you can participate in the Kyoto Protocol, a treaty aiming to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by a certain percentage. Examples of eco-friendly stoves are wood camping stoves, solar stoves and flame-less stoves.

Easy to use

Campers should also consider the ease on how to use the stove.  Select stoves that have easy to understand instructions and simple assembly. Also, look for those stoves that can be maintained by the camper himself or herself.

Good quality

Durability of the stove is one factor to consider in assessing its quality.  Stoves that are long lasting can help you save money.  Sometimes, the quality of a stove is heavily affected by the fuel type being used.  Also, it  is best to remember to consider the amount of time needed when you boil water.

Fuel used

According to Zenstoves,  fuel is a big factor to consider in selecting the best stove. However, this would also depend on your stove needs and destination. Wikipedia tabulated the advantages and disadvantages of some of the most common fuel types.

Purpose of the stove

In choosing the topmost backpacking stove, you must also realize the use of the stove. Are you preparing meals for yourself only or for the whole family? What is the menu you are planning to cook? Are you up to long or short distances? Answers to these questions may help you in your quest for the supreme stove.