Picking the best backpacking stove for your backcountry adventures doesn’t have to be a crapshoot. Whether this is your first backpacking trip or you’ve lived on the trail for months at a time, a few simple questions can help you home in on the best backpacking stove for you.

1. What are the types of backpacking stoves? 

• Canister stoves are easy to use and require little maintenance but fuel is heavy and expensive
• Liquid fuel stoves are cheaper to use but can be finicky and may need maintenance on the trail
• Alternative fuel stoves are ecofriendly but tend to be slower to heat your food

2. How long will I be backpacking?

• Canister stoves are great for short trips with just a few meals since they tend to burn more fuel per meal
• Liquid fuel stoves are better for longer outings with more complicated meal prep
• Alternative fuel stoves, like wood-burning or alcohol, are great for thru-hikes and extended backwoods adventures since you can collect wood as you go

3. Where will I be backpacking?

• International backpackers should consider liquid fuel stoves since you can find plenty of options to refill your fuel canisters in other countries
• Backpackers in wooded areas may want to take a look at wood-burning stoves
• Those hiking above the timberline or in areas with burn bans could try alcohol or canister stoves

Take a look at our picks in this best backpacking stoves review to find the one that’s right for you. And don’t forget to try it out before you hit the trail to troubleshoot any issues. That way you can count on a hot meal after your long day of hiking.

1. Jetboil Flash Camping and Backpacking Stove Cooking System

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The Jetboil Flash Camping and Backpacking Stove Cooking System is compact and easy to use. Quick to set up and quick to pack up, you simply screw your fuel canister on and push the igniter button. No need for matches or extra pots, which keeps your pack light while you feed your belly.

This integrated backcountry stove boils 16 ounces of water in a blistering minute and a half. And the handy indicator on the side tells you when your water is ready to pour into your dehydrated dinner or over your coffee grounds so you won’t waste fuel continuing to heat boiling water. 

Pay close attention to your stove, though, because some users have complained that it will melt the plastic handle or the insulating koozie. Adjusting the heat may help avoid this, but that may mean longer cook times. Also, don’t expect great simmering, so keep an eye on your meal to avoid burning dinner. 

The Jetboil Flash Camping and Backpacking Stove Cooking System at its most basic is best for boiling water for dehydrated trail food rather than cooking elaborate meals, but there are accessories that can expand your options. The Jetboil Pot Support, Jetboil frying pan, Jetboil FluxRing Camping Pot,  and Jetboil coffee press (java kit) are sold separately. While they may add weight to your backpack, they offer an expanded cooking experience, making this our pick for the best Jetboil for backpacking.

Specs:

• Weight: 13.9 ounces (393 grams)
• Boil time: 1.5 minutes for 16 ounces of water
• Stove type: Integrated canister stove
• Best use: Boiling water for use in dehydrated meals and making coffee or tea

2. MSR WindBurner Minimalist Stove System for Backpacking

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The enclosed windproof design gives the MSR WindBurner Minimalist Stove System for Backpacking its name. And true to its name, it works really well in windy conditions. The included pressure regulator ensures that cold weather and altitude won’t derail dinner plans either. Fast to boil even in the coldest, windiest conditions, this is a great backpacking stove for extreme conditions.

This is another integrated backpacking cookstove system. For backcountry excursions this MSR backpacking stove nests for compact storage in your backpack. There are plenty of accessories sold separately like a large capacity crock pot and skillet. These allow you to expand your cooking options from minimalist backpacking stove to all-around camp stove to feed larger groups back at base camp.

There is no built-in lighter, so you’ll need to carry matches or a lighter with you. Boil water fast, but simmering is not an option. It’s kind of an all-or-nothing burner temperature. And if you want to use a frying pan you’ll need to either pony up for the MSR Fry Pan or get a pot support like the Jetboil pot support (which will work with this stove as well as the Jetboil system). 

Overall, the  MSR WindBurner Minimalist Stove System for Backpacking is a great option for backpacking, especially if you are going to be facing extremes in temperature and wind and primarily want to boil water for dehydrated food.

Specs:

• Weight: 15.3 ounces
• Boil time: 2.75 minutes for 16 ounces of water
• Stove type: Integrated canister stove
• Best use: Solo backpacking in extreme cold or high wind conditions

3. Coleman Single Burner Backpacking Stove

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The Coleman Single Burner Backpacking Stove is a reliable and inexpensive entry in the backpacking stove market. Unlike integrated canister stoves, this versatile backpacking stove works with any pot or pan. You’ll boil water fast when you open the valve to full, plus you’ll have heat regulation adjustability so you can go from simmering to a full boil.

The stove does not come with a stabilizing base, so you’ll need to pay close attention to your setup location. Make sure it’s flat and smooth so your dinner doesn’t end up in the dirt from a sudden gust of wind. While this stove a bit heavier than other comparable backpacking stoves, the price is hard to beat.

All in all, the Coleman Single Burner Backpacking Stove is a solid choice especially if you are an occasional backpacker and don’t want to invest too much in your backpacking stove. It also is a great option to stash in your home emergency kit for cooking when the electricity goes out.  

Specs:

• Weight: 6.7 ounces (189.9 grams)
• Boil time: 3.25 minutes for 1 liter of water
• Stove type: Screw-on canister stove
• Best use: Occasional backpackers or as a home emergency kit stove

4. Solo Stove Campfire Woodburning Backpacking Stove

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As the first alternative fuel entry in our list, the Solo Stove Campfire Woodburning Backpacking Stove gives you a way to cook without using compressed gas. Simply scavenge twigs and sticks along the trail during your hike and you’ll be ready to cook dinner when you make camp. 

This backpacking stove is insanely heavy compared to the screw-on canister options, but bear in mind that you are not carrying fuel with you. That saves you 13 ounces per canister, so if you are headed out for long periods of time, you may end up ahead on weight with the Solo Stove Campfire Woodburning Backpacking Stove.

You’ll also need to be able to find combustible fuel, so look for another option if you are hiking above the timberline or in deserts, as this would not be your first choice. You’ll also need to pay attention to burn bans in your area.

Specs:

• Weight: 2.2 lbs (yes, you read that right POUNDS)
• Boil time: 2 to 4 minutes for 32 ounces of water
• Stove type: Woodburning backpacking stove (alternative fuel backpacking stove)
• Best use: Long haul backpackers in forested areas

5. MSR PocketRocket Ultralight Backpacking Stove

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The MSR PocketRocket Ultralight Backpacking Stove lives up to its name at 2.9 ounces. Perfect for minimalist backpacking adventures since it tucks down small and weighs almost nothing.

It doesn’t come with a stand, so make sure you choose a stable spot to cook. Larger pots will make it top-heavy and prone to tipping even with the pot supports, but frying pans and smaller pots will work nicely. This stove boils water quickly and can simmer due to the broad burner with wind protection.

With no need to prime, pump, or preheat, you can get cooking as soon as you get to camp. Just use the push-start button and you are ready to go. The burner has a wind-blocking lip, but there is no windscreen, which can be less-than-ideal in high wind conditions. An altitude adjustment makes it good for mountain backpacking, though.

Make sure you have a stable cooking area prepared, since it’s a bit tippy with a pot on top. But overall the MSR PocketRocket Ultralight Backpacking Stove tics all the boxes for a great all-around canister backpacking stove for any conditions.

Specs:

• Weight: 2.9 ounces
• Boil time: 3.5 minutes for 1 liter of water
• Stove type: Screw-on canister stove
• Best use: All-around backpacking in any conditions

6. Optimus Polaris Optifuel Backpacking Stove

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Our first versatile option when it comes to fuel types, the Optimus Polaris Optifuel Backpacking Stove can use an isobutane-propane canister or liquid fuel like white gas, automobile gas, or kerosene. 

Although it’s heavier than some of the stoves later on our list, the impressive 3.25 minute boiling time and durable, ergonomic build makes it a contender for best liquid fuel backpacking stove. And the curved legs give added stability on uneven ground.

Another plus with this stove for the frugal backpacker is that the stove comes with a liquid fuel bottle (most other liquid fuel stoves make you buy your fuel bottle separately). On the flip side, Optimus does not recommend use with any other fuel bottle type, so you are limited to their proprietary pump and bottle system. You can get around this by using your standard fuel bottle for storage and refilling the Optimus fuel bottle as needed, but that adds weight and bulk to your pack.

On the upside, the integrated magnetic needle cleans while you cook, cutting down on maintenance. The Optimus Polaris Optifuel Backpacking Stove includes a ground heat reflector and windscreen so you can cook efficiently in all conditions.

Specs:

• Weight: 1 lb 1ounce (stove, pump, and canister connector)
• Boil time: 3.4 minutes for 1 liter of water
• Stove type: Canister or liquid fuel stove
• Best use: All-around backpacking in any conditions

7. SOTO WindMaster Backpacking Stove w/Micro Regulator

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Lightweight and stable, the SOTO WindMaster Backpacking Stove w/Micro Regulator is a solid choice for any backpacker. It’s easy to use and packs up in two pieces so you can stash it in tight places. Four pot supports give you a wide base for your pot to avoid tipping. And even with that extra arm (compared with some other stoves on our list) it’s light and compact.

The included igniter works well most of the time, but make sure you carry a separate lighter just in case. Some users have had issues with the igniter failing at a critical moment. Set up includes locating 2 pieces and assembling the pot support onto the stove burner, so it takes an extra minute to set up. But ease of use still ranks high, just the same.

With above-average fuel efficiency and good simmering ability, the SOTO WindMaster Backpacking Stove w/Micro Regulator is an all-around winner for screw-on canister backpacking stoves.

Specs:

• Weight: 2.3 ounces (for burner and pot supports)
• Boil time: 4.75 minutes
• Stove type: Screw-on canister stove
• Best use: All-around backpacking in any conditions

8. MSR WhisperLite Universal Camping and Backpacking Stove

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The MSR WhisperLite Universal Camping and Backpacking Stove is a durable and versatile liquid fuel backpacking stove. The only backpacking stove on our list that can switch between isobutane and liquid gas, this is a top contender for best lightweight backpacking stove. Keep in mind that it takes a bit of time to adjust each time you switch between fuel types.

Consider it a great option if you will be crossing international borders since you can refill your fuel bottle with locally available fuel options. For short trips closer to home, it also works efficiently with an isbutane gas canister. It’s tricky to get a simmer with liquid fuel, but simmering is a breeze with a canister.

When calculating the overall weight of this stove be sure to add in the fuel bottle if you go that route. Slower to boil than some of our other options, especially when you first fire it up, the MSR WhisperLite Universal Camping and Backpacking Stove makes up for it with versatility. Expect it to work better after warming up for about 5 minutes.

You can repair this stove in the field, which makes it a great stove for thru-hikes and long trips. Shaker technology means that if your stove is sputtering, simply shake the stove to clean it. It comes with an included windscreen which helps with fuel efficiency and has a low profile which keeps tipping pots to a minimum. Works with Isobutane-propane, white gas, unleaded automobile gas, or kerosene.

Specs:

• Weight: 13.7 ounces (stove, pump, canister mount)
• Boil time: 7 minutes
• Stove type: Liquid fuel stove
• Best use: Feeding larger groups, international backpacking, and thru-hikes

9. Keweis Ultralight Portable Mini Alcohol Backpacking Stove

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If you are looking for a quiet and featherweight cooking experience, then an alcohol backpacking stove like the Keweis Ultralight Portable Mini Alcohol Backpacking Stove may be your huckleberry.

Simple in build and easy to use, the stove’s O-ring seals in the alcohol fuel, so you don’t need to drain it after dinner. The alcohol won’t evaporate and it’ll be ready to cook coffee and breakfast in the morning. The flame burns hot, but cooking times are longer with alcohol stoves as compared to your canister or liquid fuel options, so patience is a virtue when using this stove.

You’ll need to gauge your fuel amount for cooking, since you can’t add additional fuel when the stove is hot. If you run out in the middle of a meal, you’ll have to wait til it cools before refilling and starting to cook again. 

If you have extra alcohol left over at the end of the meal, you’ve got to carefully pour it back into the bottle before you pack up to get on the trail – a potentially messy process that could result in fuel loss from spillage.

Overall, the Keweis Ultralight Portable Mini Alcohol Backpacking Stove is a good alternative fuel backpacking stove that is straightforward to master with some practice. It’s eco-friendly and light to carry with no need to pack non-reusable canisters or bulky metal fuel bottles.

Specs:

• Weight: 5.1 ounces (145 grams)
• Boil time: 6 to 8 minutes for 1 liter of water
• Stove type: Alcohol backpacking stove (alternative fuel backpacking stove)
• Best use: Ultralight backpacking with experience in alcohol stoves or those with the willingness to experiment to get practiced

10. TOAKS Titanium Backpacking Wood Burning Stove

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The second wood burning stove on our list, the TOAKS Titanium Backpacking Wood Burning Stove weighs only 5.4 ounces, perfect for the ultralight backpacker. You’ll save space too, since the components nest and there is no need for fuel bottles or isobutane canisters. 

Easy to feed with good ventilation, you can keep the fire going for longer cooking sessions instead of having to plan in advance like you do with an alcohol stove that you can’t refill hot.

Be aware that smaller cooking containers don’t fit on the rim and can tip into the fire. And it may take some practice to get a good fire started, especially in rainy conditions, so practice before you head out into the backcountry to avoid a cold, hungry trip.

If you are looking for ultralight, alternative fuel backpacking stoves, then the TOAKS Titanium Backpacking Wood Burning Stove is a solid choice.

Specs:

• Weight: 4.5 ounces
• Boil time: 6 to 7 minutes for 1 liter of water
• Stove type: Woodburning backpacking stove (alternative fuel backpacking stove)
• Best use: Ultralight backpackers in wooden areas

11. MSR Dragonfly Portable Camping and Backpacking Stove

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If you need even more versatility in your fuel types, then the MSR Dragonfly Portable Camping and Backpacking Stove is the way to go. Not only can you use white gas, automobile gas, and kerosene, but diesel and jet fuel as well.

If you head out on truly epic adventures, this is your all-around lifeline when it comes to back-country cooking. Two control valves give you plenty of precision flame control. The self-cleaning jet keeps your valves clear of clogs, and the pump has a poppet so it won’t leak when you remove it from the fuel bottle.

This stove is more suited to the experienced backpacker who is comfortable with field repair, since it takes some time and effort to maintain the stove for best results. Be prepared to disassemble to lube or clean it periodically. Also, consider adding the optional shaker needle to the MSR Dragonfly Portable Camping and Backpacking Stove for easy cleaning on the fly.

Specs:

• Weight: 14 ounces (stove and pump)
• Boil time: 3.5 minutes with white gas for 1 liter of water
• Stove type: Liquid gas stove
• Best use: Experienced backpackers willing to invest time in maintenance in exchange for the most fuel-type options

12. Snow Peak LiteMax Titanium Backpacking Stove

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Astoundingly lightweight, the sturdy Snow Peak LiteMax Titanium Backpacking Stove folds up tight enough to fit in your palm. Quieter than other screw-on canister stoves and with arms that unfold to hold larger pots steady, this is a good choice as an all-around backpacking stove for most outdoor adventurers. 

It has a longer boil time and will use a bit more fuel than comparable stoves, but does a decent job of simmering with the adjustable flame control valve. Also, the foldable support arms bear limited weight, so this is not the ideal stove if you are cooking for big groups.

Great for one or two backpackers on shorter trips where fuel consumption isn’t an issue, the Snow Peak LiteMax Titanium Backpacking Stove is an all-around quality stove.

Specs:

• Weight: 2 ounces (56 grams)
• Boil time: 4.5 minutes for 1 liter of water
• Stove type: Scre-on canister backpacking stove
• Best use: General backpacking on shorter trips

13. MSR WhisperLite International Multifuel Backpacking Stove

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Same great features as the MSR Whistperlight Universal, the MSR WhisperLite International Multifuel Backpacking Stove is three ounces lighter and uses white gas, unleaded automobile gas, or kerosene.

If you do not need the propane canister option, then this is a great pick for your ultralight camp stove.

Your MSR WhisperLite International Multifuel Backpacking Stove comes with a parts kit so you can troubleshoot in the wilderness and the low profile, sturdy yet compact design makes for an efficient cooking experience.

Specs:

• Weight: 10.9 ounces (stove and pump)
• Boil time: 3.5 minutes with white gas for 1 liter of water
• Stove type: Liquid gas stove
• Best use: International travel, minimalist backpacking, thru-hikes

What to look for in a backpacking stove

Stove type

1. Canister stoves

Canister stoves come in several configurations: Screw-on stoves, where the stove and pot sit on top of the canister, or remote, where the canister sits off to the side connected by a fuel hose. Integrated canister systems are where the screw-on stove types include the cooking pot. These are compact and generally weigh less than remote systems since there is simply less to them. 

The downside to screw-on backpacking stoves? You can’t use a windscreen in cold or high wind conditions, since the canister can overheat and explode. 

With a remote canister stove, you can use your windscreen since the canister sits outside the screen and stays cool as your food heats. A lower profile means these stoves can also support larger, heavier pots.

Pros:

• Easy to use
• Small and lightweight
• Quick to light
• Easy to adjust flame
• Screw on threads
• Self-sealing, so minimal leaking
• Available in isobutane and propane
• Good for cold weather and high altitude because of pressure regulator in the canister

Cons:

• Can be top-heavy
• Amount of gas left in canister is hard to gauge
• Need to properly dispose of canisters
• Higher cost than other fuel options
• Can be loud, especially on high

2. Liquid fuel stoves

Multiple fuel types include propane, white gas, automobile gas, kerosene, and even jet fuel and diesel. With so many options (depending on the stove you choose) this is a great fit for international travelers since propane canisters may be hard to come by in some countries.

Pros:

• Refillable bottles
• Versatile fuel types
• Less expensive fuel cost

Cons:

• More finicky than canister stoves
• More maintenance is needed for efficient use due to impurities in fuel sources
• May need priming
• Generally heavier than canister stoves when you add in the full fuel bottle(s)

3. Alternative fuel stove

Denatured alcohol stoves

Pros:

• Inexpensive fuel
• Light, 
• Quiet

Cons:

• Hard to find internationally, 
• Slow to bring water to boil

Wood stoves 

Pros:

• Simple 
• Lightweight
• Fuel can be scavenged along the trail

Cons:

• Needs dry fuel (rain)
• Can’t use this stove in areas with fire burn bans
• Fuel can be hard to find above the timberline or desert areas

Solid fuel stoves use fuel tablets 

Pros: 

• Inexpensive
• Compact
• Lightweight 
• Easy to light 

Cons:

• Slow to bring to boil
• May emit a noxious can smell
• Leaves greasy residue on cooking pots (and everything it comes into contact with) 

Wrap up and final thoughts

Finding the best backpacking stove for your experience level and budget doesn’t have to be a chore. If you are just getting started as a backpacker, then you can’t go wrong with the MSR PocketRocket Ultralight Backpacking Stove. If you want to try your hand at liquid fuel then the Optimus Polaris Optifuel Backpacking Stove is a solid pick. For an alternative fuel stove, we like the TOAKS Titanium Backpacking Wood Burning Stove.