For backpacking on the Appalachian Trail, you want a stove that is easy-to-use, lightweight, and uses a fuel source that is easy to find in trail towns. It’s a personal choice but here are a few options to consider.
Examples of Backpacking Stoves
MSR Pocket Rocket Backpacking Stove
Price = $40, Weight = 3 oz, Fuel = Isobutane-propane canister, Website = <Cascade Designs>
Vargo Triad Alcohol Stove:
Price = $30, Weight = 1 oz, Fuel = Denatured Alcohol, Website = <Vargo Outdoors>
Esbit Pocket Stove
Price = $10, Weight = 3.25 oz, Fuel = Esbit fuel tablets, Website = <Amazon>
Brasslite Turbo 2D Backpacking Stove
Price = $35, Weight = 2.6 oz, Fuel = Methanol, Website = <Brasslite>
Other Things to Consider
- Hikers like to store their camp stove and fuel in their cooking pot. Will your stove fit inside your pot?
- Buy a windshield for your stove. It will help to keep your stove lit in windy conditions.
- Check out the manufacturer’s website to see what options they currently have available then go to the outfitters to see for yourself.
- Some manufacturer’s sell stoves can be purchased in a cookset (i.e., the pot is included). See what works for you.
Disclaimer: These are suggestions that worked for some thru-hikers. It’s always important to test each piece of equipment in various conditions before you start your hike. Read the instruction manuals and understand your equipment.