For the backpacker having the right stove is critical to an enjoyable hiking experience. Depending on the type backpacking you do, will determine the best stove for your needs. Most backpackers will use a canister stove or a liquid-fuel stove. If you backpack in a wide range of elements, the liquid-fuel stove will be your best fit. Unlike the canister stove, the liquid-fuel stove can accommodate larger groups. The downside, they weigh more. Liquid-fuel stoves have a separate bottle for fuel that attaches to the burner with a hose. For the most part, the fuel bottle has to be purchased separately. Most liquid-fuel stoves can be turned up for high output and lowered to just a little simmer.

Liquid-fuel stoves are a compact, single burner stove that has high heat output, which makes these stoves ideal for harsh winter conditions and high altitudes. Most liquid-fuel stoves come equipped with a wind screen to help improve on their efficiency and have wide legs to enhance their stability and to support larger pots. A separate fuel bottle attaches to the stove with a small hose and has an adjustable valve to control the heat. Liquid fuel in their containers is not pressurized, resulting in the need to use a primer pump to create pressure that will force the fuel through the hose to the burner.

Most liquid-fuel stoves are versatile with the ability to burn white gas, which is a form of gasoline that contains no additives. This in turn allows the stove to burn cleaner and hotter and performs well in sub-zero temperatures’ and high altitudes. Most liquid-fuel stoves will burn kerosene, diesel #1, auto gas, and jet fuel. When burning these fuels, some liquid stoves require a more volatile fuel such as alcohol or primer paste to prime them. Because these fuels do not burn clean, liquid-fuel stoves require regular cleaning to work properly. However, the Optimums Nova Stove will allow users to rest assured that this stove will always burn clean with the built in magic magnetic cleaning needle. If you need to purchase gas for your stove, avoid oxygenated gas especially in the winter, for this gas will break down vital stove components.

The liquid-fuel stove is environmentally friendly as they have the refillable fuel tank. However, some of the fuels that liquid-fuel stoves burn can have an unpleasant smell and create smoke. The fuel tanks are refillable which allows for the backpacker to carry only what is needed for the camping trip. Remember never to fill the tank completely full, gas expands as it warms and can cause excessive pressure buildup. Also, avoid spilling fuel when filling the fuel bottle; most fuels can be highly explosive with the smallest spark. Try to always empty the fuel tank when storing it. An important reminder, never use any type of fuel burning stove inside of a tent for cooking or for warming the tent. This could create a fireball and/or cause serious injury from carbon monoxide poisoning.