Are camping stoves safe to use and what are the different options?

Camping trips are very much a staple of British tradition. Camping has always been popular with families, couples looking for a short getaway, festival goers, hikers on multi-day hikes and more. Cheap getaways to places such as Spain however, saw a drop in the numbers of people choosing a camping holiday over warmer climates. The UK saw a huge resurgence following the COVID-19 outbreak and many of us either found or remembered the love of spending a night or two under the stars. 

Are Camping Stoves Safe?

As with anything, having the right equipment is a must. Equipment such as camping stoves can sometimes cause confusion with people who might not be familiar with the different stove designs and fuel types. In general camping stoves are safe to use, the dangers as with so many other things come from misuse rather than design flaws. The main risks include: 

• Carbon monoxide poisoning – Never use a stove inside a tent without proper ventilation. 
• Burns and fire hazards – Always take extra care when using stoves, stoves placed on unstable ground/surfaces can easily cause burns or potential fires. 
• Fuel leaks or explosions – Keeping your kit in good condition is an absolute must – damaged canisters, poorly fitted regulators or storing fuel near heat sources can be dangerous. 

Ensure you always follow manufacturer instructions, checking for damage, and cooking away from flammable materials can significantly reduce these risks. 

Types of Camping Stoves & Their Pros and Cons

1. Gas Canister Stoves
Fuel: Butane, propane, or isobutane mix in pressurised canisters.

• Pros:
  
  • Quick and easy to ignite.
    
  • Lightweight and compact — ideal for backpacking.
    
  • Adjustable flame for controlled cooking.
    
• Cons:
  
  • Canisters can be expensive and difficult to recycle.
    
  • Performance drops in very cold weather.
    
  • Fuel level isn’t visible, so it’s easy to run out unexpectedly.
    

2. Liquid Fuel Stoves
Fuel: White gas (naphtha), unleaded petrol, or paraffin.

• Pros:
  
  • Excellent cold-weather performance.
    
  • Cheaper and more widely available fuel compared to gas canisters.
    
  • Refillable bottles reduce waste.
    
• Cons:
  
  • Heavier and bulkier than canister stoves.
    
  • Require priming and more maintenance.
    
  • Risk of spills and strong fuel odours.
    

3. Alcohol Stoves
Fuel: Methylated spirits (denatured alcohol).

• Pros:
  
  • Silent operation and very lightweight.
    
  • Simple design with few moving parts to break.
    
  • Fuel is easy to find in UK hardware shops.
    
• Cons:
  
  • Lower heat output means slower cooking times.
    
  • Flames can be hard to see in daylight, posing a burn risk.
    
  • Less efficient in windy or cold conditions without a windshield.
    

4. Solid Fuel Stoves
Fuel: Hexamine or similar tablets.

• Pros:
  
  • Very compact and inexpensive.
    
  • No risk of fuel spillage.
    
  • Good as a backup emergency cooker.
    
• Cons:
  
  • Low heat output and longer cooking times.
    
  • Produces an odour and leaves residue on cookware.
    
  • Limited ability to adjust heat.

Conclusion 

Camping stoves in the UK are generally safe if you follow safety guidance: cook outdoors in a stable, well-ventilated area; store fuel securely; and maintain your equipment. The “best” stove depends on your needs. Gas canisters are great for short, lightweight trips; liquid fuel is best for extreme cold or long expeditions; alcohol stoves suit ultralight hikers; and solid fuel is a simple emergency backup.

By matching your stove type to your trip and treating it with care, you can enjoy warm meals in the wild without compromising safety.