The best camping stoves

Best all-rounder and best for environment.Changing very little since its debut in 1925, the Trangia is a great stove. With a spirit burner placed underneath a wind and weatherproof stand, the stove uses methylated spirits or alcohol-based liquids as fuel. It's lit by a match, lighter or flint, and the flame can be set to full or simmer, and can boil one litre of water in about 10 minutes. It's slower than butane/propane burners, but the fuel is much cheaper, readily available and much kinder to the environment.The 27 Cookset includes two 1L saucepans and one 18cm frying pan, which is ideal for up to two people. The larger Trangia 25 Cookset is available for excursions with up to four. All elements can be stored inside the largest saucepan, and are held together with a buckled strap.Pros: Economical, reliable, low-maintenance, gas-canister freeCons: Longer boil time than competitionWeight: 865gIgnition: User (matches, lighter, or flint)

Best for hardcore outdoor enthusiasts. No matter whether you're down-dale in a rainstorm or peak-side in high winds, the MSR Reactor Stove System can be relied on to deliver you a hot meal or beverage. As a 1.7 litre unit, the stove is suitable for two or three people, and the industry-leading weather-proof burner will have half a litre of water bubbling away in only 90 seconds. When you're done, all components and gas can be stored in the pot to reduce packing bulk.Pros: Compact, efficient in all weathersCons: Expensive, runs on gas canistersWeight: 496gIgnition: Piezo ignition

Best ultra-compact.The Crux is an ultra-lightweight stove option that has stripped the concept of a stove right back to its base feature – the burner. It simply locks onto the top of a gas canister and provides the support arms for a saucepan or mess tin. The only issue some may find is the lack of windproofing, so some good cover will be needed to attain the quickest boil, or you can use it with a foldable windshield. One compromise you will have to consider when opting for the Crux is the stability of the stove, which is reduced to the size of the gas canister's base. Canister stands are available, but this does start to detract from the minimalist intention of the stove. Pros: Ultra-lightweight, great for day-packs and minimalist camps. Cons: No windproofing and potentially unstable. Weight: 83gIgnition: Piezo ignition

Best all-in-one for backpackers and trekkers.Coleman's all-in-one set is ideal for hikers and trekkers in even the most extreme high-wind weather conditions. The HyperFlame burner is very efficient, and will have the 1.3 litre pot reach boiling temperatures in under five minutes. The gas canister is connected by a braided metal hose, which is robust and not liable to breakages/leaks. Because the gas isn't an integral part of the stove stand, the FyreStorm sits closer to the ground and is very stable. The neoprene sleeve is a good insulator, and makes the pot easier to handle at high temperatures. The set includes stove, cooking pot, sleeve and lid – the gas canister is sold separately. All of these items can be stored inside the pot for compact transportation.Pros: All-in-one, stable, efficient, affordableCons: Runs on gas canisters, heavy and bulky – but it does carry all it needs to operate.Weight: 567gIgnition: Piezo ignition

Best for speed.The Jetboil Flash is a darling of the hiking, bushcrafting, and military circles. The special design of the burner means that half a litre of water can be boiled in under three minutes (when using Jetboil's gas canisters). The one litre cooking cup is insulated with a cosy, making it easier to pick up and keeping the contents warm for longer. When you're all done, the 100g gas canister, stand, and burner all pack away into the cup for compact storage. It's ideal for soups, water-based ready-meals, and hot drinks – especially on quick hike breaks and lunches. The only thing to note is that the tall height does mean it is more unstable than some options. 100g of gas will boil approximately 12 litres of water.Pros: Great speed, compact storage. Cons: Expensive to purchase, and expensive to run using Jetboil own-brand fuels. Runs on gas canisters.Weight: 400gIgnition: Piezo ignition

Best for bushcraft. For those who enjoy cooking over a flame of their own making, the Lixda Camping Wood Stove is a great option. Essentially made up of four metal plates that slide together, the stove allows a wood fire to be put together inside. There's plenty of airflow to stoke the fire thanks to the raised bottom vent, and the three closed sides direct the fire's heat well, leading to a more efficient cooking time when compared with an open campfire. The square base is wide and stable, and the top can comfortably take a saucepan. Just be aware that it's not one that you can pack away in a hurry – you'll have to wait for the fire to die and plates to cool.Pros: Very lightweight and low-profile once broken down. Free fuel, courtesy of Mother Nature.Cons: You need to be able to start and maintain a fire. Not for quick hiking coffee breaks.Weight: 396g (including carry pouch)Ignition: User (matches, lighters, fire starters, flints)

This simply accessory makes a big difference to the camp cooking experience. The joined plates can be erected around or along a stove to protect the flame and food from wind and debris.