The Best Propane Stoves for Outdoor Cooking

1. Coleman Classic 1-Burner Butane Stove

• Price: $34.99 at Amazon
• Pros:
  • Wind guards offer robust protection for consistent flame, ensuring your meals cook evenly even in breezy conditions.
  • Chrome-plated grate simplifies the cleaning process, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your adventure and less time scrubbing.
  • Setup and start-up are straightforward and user-friendly, making it an excellent choice for beginners and seasoned campers alike.
• Cons:
  • On the heavier side for backpacking excursions, so it’s better suited for car camping or base camps.
  • Manual lighting is necessary; no automatic ignition, which may require carrying additional fire-starting tools.
  • Lid and sidewalls could be sturdier to enhance durability, although proper care can mitigate this issue.

2. Coleman Fold N Go Stove with Carrying Case

• Price: $115.00 at Amazon
• Pros:
  • Quick and easy InstaStart ignition ensures hassle-free lighting, perfect for when you’re hungry and eager to start cooking.
  • Ample cooking power with two burners allows you to prepare multiple dishes simultaneously, ideal for group camping trips.
  • Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to transport, fitting snugly into your backpack or vehicle trunk.
• Cons:
  • Wind can affect cooking time, so consider using windbreaks or cooking in sheltered areas to optimize performance.
  • Can be awkward to close and latch, requiring a bit of finesse to ensure a secure seal when not in use.
  • Burner design may not fit all pot types, so compatibility with your cookware should be considered before purchase.

3. Gas One GS-3400P Stove with Carrying Case

• Price: $44.99 at Amazon
• Pros:
  • Dual fuel flexibility allows for easy switching between butane and propane, providing versatility for various camping scenarios.
  • The automatic ignition system means no fumbling for matches or lighters, streamlining the cooking process.
  • Compact design with a sturdy carrying case simplifies transportation and storage, perfect for on-the-go adventurers.
• Cons:
  • Some users may prefer a higher BTU unit for more intense cooking needs, although it’s still suitable for basic camping meals.
  • The small form factor might not suit large pots or pans as comfortably, limiting the size of dishes you can prepare.
  • Requires careful placement on a level surface to ensure stability and safety, so be mindful of the terrain when setting up.

4. Coleman Triton 2 Burner Propane Gas Camping Stove

• Price: $109.99 at Amazon
• Pros:
  • Easy ignition with the push-button start eliminates the need for matches or lighters, simplifying the cooking process.
  • Independently adjustable burners provide versatility for cooking different dishes simultaneously, catering to diverse tastes.
  • Compact and easy to transport with a sturdy latch, ensuring secure storage and convenient portability.
• Cons:
  • Requires a separate purchase of a propane cylinder, so factor in the additional cost when budgeting for your camping gear.
  • Might be bulkier than some ultra-light options, but its durability and performance make it worth the extra weight for many campers.
  • Wind guards are helpful but not foolproof in strong gusts, necessitating strategic placement to minimize the impact of wind on flame stability.

5. Fire-Maple “Fixed Star 1”

• Price: $42.46 at Amazon
• Pros:
  • Integrated and easy-to-use setup including with a heating system and coffee maker, adding convenience to your outdoor cooking experience.
  • Compact and light with all accessories fitting in a 1-liter bowl, maximizing space efficiency in your backpack or camping kit.
  • Durable setup with aluminum pot and stainless steel handles ensures longevity, withstanding the rigors of outdoor use.
  • Multi-purpose use possible, offering versatility beyond simple cooking, making it a valuable addition to your camping gear arsenal.
• Cons:
  • The canister needs to be provided separately, so ensure you have the appropriate fuel source before heading out on your adventure.