After testing 20 portable stoves across two periods, cooking camping staples such as porridge, pancakes and fried eggs, award-winning outdoors journalist Sian Lewis has selected the best models for every type of outdoor cook. The stoves range from ultralight burners for solo wild campers to multi-burner setups for family trips, with gas and charcoal options included.
Best camping stove overall: Cadac 2 Cook 2 Pro Deluxe
This compact gas stove has two independent burners with built-in ignition, plus ceramic-coated flat and ribbed grill plates. It weighs 4.8kg and works with butane or propane. It boils water in six minutes. Lewis praises it as a great all-rounder that cooks everything well for a good price, but notes it lacks a wind guard.
Best budget camping stove: Robens Fire Beetle
Weighing just 189g, this pocket-sized burner folds into a sturdy pot stand. It boils water in four minutes and is easy to light and control. Lewis says it's great for backpackers despite not being the lightest option, and it's sensitive to wind.
Best portable BBQ: Everdure Cube
Designed with input from chef Heston Blumenthal, this reusable charcoal barbecue packs into a compact box. It has heatproof handles and a bamboo prep board on the lid. Lewis found it cute and easy to set up and clean, but notes limited grill space and a high price for simple use.
Best no-frills burner: Campingaz Camp & Trek Twin CV Connect Stove
This two-burner gas stove uses the Easy Clic system for quick setup. It boils water in four minutes and has built-in ignition. Lewis calls it a reliable, no-fuss option ideal for families or campervans, though it lacks wind protection and prep space.
Best stove for backpacking: Primus Lite Plus Stove
This all-in-one system includes a pot with a cork cosy. It boils water in three minutes, the fastest in the test. Lewis highlights its easy flame control and integrated igniter, but says it's best for solo campers and not ultralight.
Best stove for wild campers: Petromax Atago
A stainless-steel charcoal unit that works as a grill, stove, oven and firepit. It can be converted into a fire bowl. Lewis says it gives a wonderful smoky flavour and is fun to cook on, but it's expensive and accessories cost extra.
Best grill for camping: Primus Kuchoma Portable Grill
This gas-powered grill weighs 4.6kg and has a ceramic non-stick grate. It cooks for two people and the steel hood keeps the burner lit in wind. Lewis found it portable and easy to clean, but notes it can't boil water or make pasta.
Best of the rest
MSR XGK EX
A multi-fuel stove that burns white gas, paraffin and diesel. It weighs 366g and boils water in three to five minutes. Lewis says it's hard-wearing with a sturdy surface, but fiddly to use and has no simmer option.
Bar-Be-Quick Smoker and Grill Barbecue
A charcoal smoker that doubles as a grill, weighing 8.3kg. Lewis notes it's good fun and affordable once assembled, but feels flimsier than some.
Char-Broil Patio Bistro Cube E
A portable electric barbecue that reaches 320C. Lewis says it's easy to use and clean, but requires a power hook-up and lacks charcoal flavour.
Gozney Tread Pizza Oven
A portable propane pizza oven that makes 12in pizzas in three to five minutes. Weight 13.5kg. Lewis calls it well-made and a good investment for gourmet campers, but very pricey.
Petromax Rocket Stove
A wood-burning stove that works as a mini chimney. Boils water in five to ten minutes. Lewis says it's easy to light and good quality, but limited to cooking over fire.
What you need to know
When choosing a camping stove, consider fuel type (gas, liquid, wood, charcoal), number of burners, weight, and features like wind protection and simmer control. Stainless steel and titanium offer durability. Always use the correct fuel canister and test setup before camping. Never cook inside a tent due to carbon monoxide risk.
