The camping stove is one of the most important pieces of equipment for all outdoor adventures. But how does this useful helper work? Are you looking for a camping stove guide? Then you'll find what you're looking for in the following blog post.
We explain how it works and show you the most important criteria for choosing the right device - quickly, easily and informatively!
Who is a camping stove suitable for?
The camping gas cooker is a lightweight and inexpensive companion for all outdoor fans who don't want to miss out on their hot meals and morning coffee or tea. Whether you
- go on a hike or picnic,
- Spending a camping vacation with the family
- or are out and about by bike.
The camping gas stove won't let you down. You are sure to make new friends when you are equipped with a gas stove at the next festival.
How do camping stoves work?
Unfortunately, there is no general answer to this question, as the way the gas stove works depends on the model. We have to delve a little deeper into the matter. Are you ready?
How does a spirit camping stove work?
These models are also known as storm stoves, as they work reliably even in adverse conditions. For this purpose, methylated spirits are filled into the corresponding container and ignited.
However, the spirit 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?
When it comes to gas stoves with cartridges, the so-called quiet burners are very 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 have a very simple design and are very robust. Even though they can be used 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 powered by petrol. They are extremely powerful and fast. Petrol stoves bring water to the boil in just a few minutes - even in sub-zero temperatures.
Which camping stoves work in winter
In winter, you should always use a gas stove with a cartridge or a gasoline stove. The gas stove functionality of our ultralight model is a highlight all year round.
Even on cold winter days, a liter of water boils in just 2.5 minutes. So you can warm up with a hot tea or coffee in no time at all.
What are the most important purchase criteria for a camping stove?
With the wide selection and the different gas stove functions, it is not easy to find the right model.
However, if you use the following criteria as a guide, you will find the right gas stove for your individual needs in no time at all:
Performance
The power indicates how quickly the gas hob can generate heat and how long you need to cook with the gas hob. The power is given in watts.
However, a high wattage also means high gas consumption. You should only ever set the regulator on the gas stove to the required power level.
Fuel and cartridge
You can buy cheap plug-in or bayonet cartridges, which are quite inexpensive at €1 to €2. There are also so-called screw-in cartridges. These have a thread or valve and are somewhat more expensive. The following gases are used as fuel
- Butane,
- Isobutane
- and propane.
If you want to use the gas stove in colder areas, you should avoid butane.
While butane only becomes gaseous again at approx. 1 °C and isobutane at approx. 12 °C, propane already changes from a liquid to a gaseous state at approx. 42 °C.
Therefore, a high proportion of propane, which must be stored under higher pressure, in the gas mixture of your stove is advantageous for operation at low temperatures.
Expert tip: On hiking & trekking tours at temperatures below 10 °C, you should therefore always use a gas cartridge with a "winter gas" or "all-season" mixture.
Piezo ignition
The ignition creates a spark which ignites the gas. This means you do not need an external ignition source such as a lighter. You can rely on the piezo ignition even in strong winds.
Design
With a top-mounted stove, the cartridge and the stove are immediately connected to each other. In this case, the gas cartridge usually also serves as the stand for the device. In contrast, both parts of a gas stove with an external gas supply 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 burner is perfectly adequate. On a family vacation with a tent and car, you can consider whether you need several flames.
Weight
For a long hike, the weight of a gas stove should be kept within limits. There are models like our ultra-light gas stove with titanium cooking potfrom approx. 50 to 70 grams.
Intended use
The other decisions are based on this criterion. It is essential that you are clear at the outset exactly what you want to use the gas stove for.
Security
Gas stoves have a reputation for being very safe. What is important is the presence of an ignition safety device and, above all, correct and safe handling.
Are gas stoves allowed everywhere?
Unfortunately, there is no clear answer to this question. The laws are very different depending on which federal state you are in.
IGas stoves are often prohibited in the forest. There are also often special barbecue areas that may be used for camping cooking. You should therefore always inform yourself BEFORE your outdoor activities.
How much does a camping gas stove cost?
You can get gas stoves (without gas cartridges) from as little as €15. There is a lot of room for improvement. This is the lowest price and often quality segment. Stability, size, weight and accessories are very important here.
Conclusion
A gas stove is an important piece of equipment when camping and on longer hikes. That's why you shouldn 't skimp on your equipment. After all, having a hot drink and a warm meal is extremely important.
Both give you the strength and power you need for your outdoor adventure. If you value quality and durability, you should opt for a camping gas stove set you should opt for a camping gas stove set.
The fast cooking system is ultra-light, small and compact. The high-quality construction means you can enjoy your outdoor kitchen for a long time. The gas stove is child's play to operate, so you can prepare a snack in no time at all.
Thanks to the integrated heat exchanger and the windbreak, the camping stove is suitable for use in any weather.
FAQ
Can you use a camping stove in the home?
A camping stove is designed for outdoor use and should preferably not be used indoors to avoid fires and suffocation. Caution is required with gas stoves in particular. The odorless gas can displace the oxygen in the interior without you noticing. So it's better to stay away from camping stoves in the home and in tents!
Can I repair a camping stove that no longer works myself?
We strongly advise you not to do this in order to avoid serious burns and injuries. The repair of a defective camping stove should be carried out by a specialist dealer. They are familiar with how gas stoves work and can help you quickly and easily.
How long does a gas cartridge last on a camping stove?
Unfortunately, there is no general answer to this question, as it depends on consumption. If you rarely use your camping stove on a tour, the gas cartridge will of course last longer. The general rule of thumb is: 230 grams of gas have an approximate burning time of around 70 minutes.