Choosing the right camping stove can make a huge difference to your outdoor experience. Whether you are heading off on a family campsite holiday, a festival weekend, a touring trip in your campervan, or a lightweight hiking adventure, the right stove helps you prepare hot meals quickly, safely and efficiently.
This guide explains the main types of camping stoves available, what features to look for, and how to choose the best option for your style of camping.
1. What type of camping stove do you need?
The best stove for you depends on how you travel, how many people you cook for, and how much space you have.
Single burner camping stoves
Single burner stoves are compact, lightweight and easy to transport. They are ideal for:
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Solo campers or couples
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Backpacking and hiking trips
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Emergency or backup cooking
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Short stays and festivals
These stoves usually run on small gas cartridges and are quick to set up and pack away.
Double burner camping stoves
Double burner stoves offer more cooking flexibility and are a popular choice for:
With two hobs, you can cook multiple items at once, making meal preparation faster and more convenient.
Portable camping cookers
Portable cookers often come in hard carry cases and provide a stable cooking surface. They suit:
Many models include built-in wind shields and sturdy pan supports.
2. Fuel types explained
Most camping stoves use gas, but there are a few variations to be aware of.
Butane and propane gas stoves
These are the most common and easiest to use. Benefits include:
Some stoves accept mixed gas cartridges, which perform better in colder conditions.
Dual fuel or multi-fuel stoves
These are designed for more demanding environments and can run on different fuel types. They are best suited to:
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Remote travel
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Cold weather camping
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Experienced campers
For most UK camping trips, standard gas stoves are more than sufficient.
3. Key features to consider
When choosing a camping stove, look out for the following features:
Size and weight
If you are carrying your equipment, lighter models are better. If travelling by car or campervan, weight is less important.
Ignition type
Piezo ignition is more convenient but not essential.
Wind protection
Integrated wind shields help maintain heat and reduce gas usage when cooking outdoors.
Stability
Wide bases and strong pan supports reduce the risk of spills, especially when using larger pots.
Heat output
Measured in BTU or watts, higher output means faster cooking, which is useful for groups or larger meals.
Storage and portability
Carry cases and folding designs make transport easier and protect your stove between trips.
4. Matching your stove to your camping style
Here is a quick guide to help narrow down your choice:
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Backpacking or hiking – compact single burner stove
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Festivals – lightweight portable gas stove
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Family camping – double burner cooker
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Caravan or motorhome – portable stove with wind protection
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Long stays – sturdy cooker with multiple burners
5. Safety tips for using camping stoves
Always follow manufacturer instructions and keep these basic safety tips in mind:
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Use stoves in well-ventilated outdoor areas only
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Keep away from tents and flammable materials
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Check gas connections before lighting
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Allow stoves to cool before packing away
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Store fuel canisters safely and upright
6. Explore our camping stove range
At UK Camping & Leisure, we stock a wide selection of camping stoves suitable for every type of outdoor trip, from compact portable models to practical family cookers.
Browse our full range of camping stoves to find reliable, easy-to-use cooking solutions for your next adventure.
