Some true nature enthusiasts might protest that using anything except an open flame in the wilderness for cooking is departing from the basics of nature; however, there are many important reasons why they should use backpacking stoves for their cooking needs.
Living in the wild and using only what nature provides used to be a way of life before the many conveniences of modern life. Now, many people enjoy getting away from their everyday life filled with technology, electronics and fast foods by escaping to the quiet simplicity of nature. Most of these do not go so far as to hunt, fish or forage for their daily food, however; carrying with them food to sustain them during their time in the woods. One of the most natural means to heat this food is to build a fire just as our ancestors had done centuries ago. However, this is not only ill advised, but can also be illegal to do so in today’s world; which is why backpacking stoves have become a popular necessity for those who spend time in the wild.
Mobile stoves are available in two categories: non-pressurized or pressurized.
- Non-pressurized stoves generally use an alcohol based liquid fuel, which is considered to be environmentally friendly but is also inexpensive and easy to obtain. Such stoves are refillable and therefore reusable. They do have a low heat output, which means that it takes longer for food to cook.
- Pressurized stoves can use either liquid fuel or compressed fuel (propane or butane). They produce high heat, burn cleanly and are relatively easy to use. In diverse weather conditions such as cold or wind, however, they can be difficult to use. Compressed fuel containers are not refillable, and may not be readily available everywhere. Liquid fuels may vary from kerosene to unleaded gas, which are generally inexpensive but do smoke. In addition, gas is extremely volatile and dangerous to carry and use.
Backpackers and campers have a wide variety of stove types from which to choose, but most have the same three features. A container to supply fuel, a burner unit that uses the fuel to supply heat and a pot support that suspends the cooking pot over the heat source are the main elements of a mobile stove. In some cases, the fuel container is actually part of the stove; in others, it is a separate fixture.
Due to the high risk of forest fires that exists in many state and national parks where people go to experience nature, open fires are often forbidden. In addition, with fewer truly natural areas remaining on earth, “leaving no trace” is an important feature when visiting woodlands. Circular burn rings and scorched earth from open fires detract from the natural beauty. Using backpacking stoves is not only environmentally friendly, but also in many cases required for those who enjoy the natural beauty of the great outdoors.