Choose the Backpacking Stove That's Right For You

When it comes to hiking, backpacking and camping, nothing ruins a great trip like not being able to eat tasty meals. Conversely, nothing turns a miserable, wet day into a fun memorable one like a great meal when you get to camp. To help you turn those down days into WOW! days, we’re going to discuss the proper backpacking stove to take on your next trip.

1. PocketRocket - MSR

In the realm of ultralight, compact stove systems for backpacking, it’s tough to beat the Pocket Rocket from MSR. The Pocket Rocket runs best off of MSR’s IsoPro Fuel canisters and comes in at a scant 4.2 oz with all included accessories. The glove-friendly flame control lever is easy to use and makes controlling your heat output extremely easy. This is great when you want to whip up a few items at once, and need to simmer something while you prepare your next dish. For those looking to travel as light as possible, the Pocket Rocket should be at the top of your list to look at.

2. MiniMo - Jetboil

Though a bit heavier than the Pocket Rocket, the MiniMo personal cooking system from Jetboil packs enough features that even the most lightweight hiker would be hardpressed to pass this up. The MiniMo is more than just a stove, it packs everything you need to prepare a delicious meal. An included 1-liter cooking pot, complete with insulated lid, means that you can cook up a delicious meal for 1-2 people, all with Jetboil’s legendary speed. When not in use the entire system packs into itself for easy transport and storage.

3. Flash - Jetboil

Next on the list is a stove that has become somewhat of a classic among backpacking enthusiasts: The Jetboil Flash personal cooking sytem was one of the first “all in one” systems to hit the market, and in many ways it remains the gold standard for backpacking simplicity. A lightning-fast boiling time means you can have your rehydrated meal ready while your friends are still fiddling with their stoves, trying to get them to light. Jetboil’s patented FluxRing speeds up cooking, as well as helping to conserve fuel, so you can carry less and move faster. Like the MiniMo, the Flash is ideal for 1-2 people in most situations.

4. Sumo - Jetboil

For those looking to feed larger groups in the backcountry, look no further than the Sumo group cooking system from Jetboil. The Sumo sports a meaty 1.8-liter pot that can easily handle meals for up to four people. In addition to an added capacity, the Sumo still sports Jetboil’s patented FluxRing for speed and efficiency, as well as an insulating cozy and pour spout up top for ease of use. When everyone gets to camp and starts whipping theirs out to compare, pull out the system that puts all other to shame. The Jetboil Sumo is the fastest way to cook up a delicious group meal, not to mention it still retains Jetboil’s awesome compact nature and easy packing.

5. JavaKit - Jetboil

Last, but most certainly not least, we have the staff favorite here at Granite Chief, the Jetboil JavaKit. The JavaKit retains all the great features you love about JetBoil systems; the compact storage, mega-fast boiling time, insulated cozy and lid, but this particular gem adds an included gourmet coffee press. No need to carry around a separate, bulky French press system in the backcountry anymore when you can simply bring everything you need all at once. Got a hiking partner who’s impossible to rouse in the morning? Trust us, a freshly brewed “pot” from the JavaKit system will have them up and breaking down camp in no time.

Hopefully this article has given you at least some insight into potential cooking systems for all your adventures this summer. If you’re still not sure, come on in to Granite Chief and let out friendly, knowledgeable staff assist you with getting the setup that’s right for you.