Top-Rated Portable Camp Stove For Ultralight Thru-Hikers

For ultralight thru-hikers, the choice of a portable camp stove is a critical decision. The stove must be lightweight, compact, efficient, and reliable, capable of withstanding the rigors of long-distance hiking while providing the necessary cooking performance. This article explores the top-rated portable camp stoves that cater specifically to the needs of ultralight thru-hikers, examining their features, benefits, and drawbacks.

1. MSR PocketRocket 2

The MSR PocketRocket 2 is a standout choice for ultralight hikers. Weighing just 2.8 ounces (79 grams), it is incredibly lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry in a backpack. Its design is sleek and minimalist, with a focus on functionality. The stove uses JetBoil's proprietary Multi-Fuel Technology, allowing it to burn a variety of fuels, including white gas, isobutane, and propane. This versatility is a significant advantage, especially in regions where fuel options may be limited.

One of the standout features of the PocketRocket 2 is its rapid boiling time. It can bring a liter of water to a boil in just 80 seconds, which is faster than many other stoves in its category. This efficiency is crucial for hikers who need to prepare meals quickly and move on. Additionally, the stove is highly fuel-efficient, meaning hikers can go longer distances without needing to refill as often.

The PocketRocket 2 also includes a windscreen and heat exchanger, which improve its performance in windy or cold conditions. These features are essential for thru-hikers who may encounter unpredictable weather on the trail. However, the stove's reliance on a specific fuel canister (JetBoil's PowerMax canisters) can be a drawback in areas where these are not readily available. Despite this, the PocketRocket 2 remains a top choice for its combination of lightweight design, reliability, and performance.

2. BRS Helio Stove

The BRS Helio Stove is another excellent option for ultralight hikers. Weighing in at 1.8 ounces (51 grams), it is even lighter than the MSR PocketRocket 2, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize minimizing weight. The stove is made from high-quality, durable materials, ensuring that it can withstand the wear and tear of long-distance hiking.

The Helio Stove is designed to be highly efficient, with a boiling time of just 100 seconds for a liter of water. It uses a standard ISO canister, which is widely available, making it a more versatile option in terms of fuel availability. The stove's compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry, and it can be packed away in a small stuff sack when not in use.

One of the key advantages of the Helio Stove is its ability to perform well in cold and windy conditions. The stove's design includes a windscreen and heat exchanger, similar to the PocketRocket 2, which helps to maintain efficiency in challenging weather. Additionally, the Helio Stove is highly fuel-efficient, meaning hikers can extend their trips without needing to carry extra fuel.

However, the Helio Stove does have some drawbacks. The stove's small size can make it difficult to use with larger pots or cookware, which may be a limitation for hikers who prefer to cook larger meals or boil more water at once. Additionally, the stove's reliance on a standard ISO canister may not be ideal for those who prefer the convenience of integrated fuel systems like the PocketRocket 2.

3. Primus Eta Express

The Primus Eta Express is a versatile and efficient stove that is highly regarded among ultralight hikers. Weighing 2.6 ounces (74 grams), it is slightly heavier than the Helio Stove but still lightweight enough for thru-hiking. The stove is designed with a focus on performance and reliability, making it a great choice for those who need a dependable stove in various conditions.

The Eta Express boasts a boiling time of just 85 seconds for a liter of water, which is comparable to the PocketRocket 2. It uses a standard ISO canister, ensuring ease of use and availability of fuel. The stove's design includes a heat exchanger and windscreen, which improve its efficiency and performance in windy or cold environments.

One of the standout features of the Eta Express is its compatibility with a wide range of cookware sizes. This makes it a versatile option for hikers who may need to cook different types of meals or boil varying amounts of water. Additionally, the stove is highly fuel-efficient, allowing hikers to extend their trips without carrying extra fuel.

However, the Eta Express does have a few drawbacks. The stove's slightly heavier weight compared to the Helio Stove may be a consideration for those who are strictly focused on minimizing weight. Additionally, the stove's design is slightly bulkier, which may take up more space in a backpack.

4. Optimus Crux Lite

The Optimus Crux Lite is a compact and lightweight stove that is highly popular among ultralight hikers. Weighing just 2.4 ounces (68 grams), it is one of the lightest stoves in its category, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize minimizing weight. The stove's design is sleek and minimalist, with a focus on functionality and performance.

The Crux Lite boasts a boiling time of just 80 seconds for a liter of water, which is among the fastest in its category. It uses a standard ISO canister, ensuring ease of use and availability of fuel. The stove's design includes a heat exchanger and windscreen, which improve its efficiency and performance in windy or cold environments.

One of the key advantages of the Crux Lite is its compatibility with a wide range of cookware sizes. This makes it a versatile option for hikers who may need to cook different types of meals or boil varying amounts of water. Additionally, the stove is highly fuel-efficient, allowing hikers to extend their trips without carrying extra fuel.

However, the Crux Lite does have some drawbacks. The stove's small size can make it difficult to use with larger pots or cookware, which may be a limitation for hikers who prefer to cook larger meals or boil more water at once. Additionally, the stove's reliance on a standard ISO canister may not be ideal for those who prefer the convenience of integrated fuel systems like the PocketRocket 2.

5. Kovea Sumo Stove

The Kovea Sumo Stove is a lightweight and efficient stove that is highly regarded among ultralight hikers. Weighing just 2.8 ounces (79 grams), it is slightly heavier than some of the other options but still lightweight enough for thru-hiking. The stove's design is compact and minimalist, with a focus on performance and reliability.

The Sumo Stove boasts a boiling time of just 85 seconds for a liter of water, which is comparable to many other high-performance stoves. It uses a standard ISO canister, ensuring ease of use and availability of fuel. The stove's design includes a heat exchanger and windscreen, which improve its efficiency and performance in windy or cold environments.

One of the standout features of the Sumo Stove is its compatibility with a wide range of cookware sizes. This makes it a versatile option for hikers who may need to cook different types of meals or boil varying amounts of water. Additionally, the stove is highly fuel-efficient, allowing hikers to extend their trips without carrying extra fuel.

However, the Sumo Stove does have some drawbacks. The stove's slightly heavier weight compared to some other options may be a consideration for those who are strictly focused on minimizing weight. Additionally, the stove's design is slightly bulkier, which may take up more space in a backpack.

Conclusion

Choosing the right portable camp stove for ultralight thru-hiking requires careful consideration of various factors, including weight, compactness, efficiency, and reliability. The MSR PocketRocket 2, BRS Helio Stove, Primus Eta Express, Optimus Crux Lite, and Kovea Sumo Stove are all excellent options that cater to the needs of ultralight hikers.

The MSR PocketRocket 2 is a top choice for its lightweight design, rapid boiling time, and fuel efficiency, although its reliance on a specific fuel canister may be a limitation. The BRS Helio Stove is the lightest option, but its small size may limit its compatibility with larger cookware. The Primus Eta Express, Optimus Crux Lite, and Kovea Sumo Stove offer a balance of performance, versatility, and fuel efficiency, making them excellent choices for those who need a reliable stove in various conditions.

Ultimately, the best stove for an ultralight thru-hiker depends on their specific needs and preferences. By carefully evaluating the features and drawbacks of each option, hikers can choose a stove that will serve them well on their journey.