The Best Camping Stove For Car Camping In 2024: Our Top Picks

Hailey Abbott By, Hailey Abbott
Updated
Best camping stove for car camping
Best camping stove for car camping

Our Top Picks

1. Best Overall: Coleman Gas Camping Stove | Classic Propane Stove, 2 Burner

Coleman's Classic Propane Stove is designed for off-grid camping and provides wind blocking panels to shield the burners from bothersome winds. With a built-in regulator that allows you to use one propane cylinder, you can enjoy up to 1 hour of high heat on your Coleman gas stove. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: Coleman Gas Camping Stove | Triton Propane Stove, 2 Burner

Coleman Gas Camping Stove | Triton Propane Stove, 2 Burner is a cookout essential. With up to 22,000 total BTUs, it's perfect for cooking up a storm and enjoying the great outdoors. With pressure-control technology, you'll never have to worry about inconsistent performance or uneven heat distribution in extreme conditions. Read Review

3. Best Easy Setup: Coleman Fold N Go Propane Stove, 2-Burner

Take your camping and backpacking adventures to the next level with the Coleman Fold N Go Propane Stove. This portable 2-burner stove is ideal for cooking at campsites, picnics and more. It features a pressure-control technology that delivers consistent heat in outdoor conditions, and folds up compactly for convenient transport. Read Review

4. Best Adjustable: Odoland 16pcs Camping Cookware Set

Keep your cookware set for camping, hiking, picnics, BBQs and more in one easy-to-carry package. With a 16-piece set of stainless steel cutlery and accessories, this is a perfect addition to your next outdoor adventure. Not only are these tools strong and durable but they are also safe to use on the coated surface with its cleaning cloth. Read Review

Car camping is a great way to get outdoors with friends and family. It’s also an affordable way to enjoy nature without having to fork over hundreds of dollars for a night at a campground. To make the most of your car camping trip, it’s important that you have the right gear.

While you can use your tent for car camping as well, having the right camping stove will make things much easier. In this article, we’ll be taking a look at some of the best car camping stoves available on the market today. From budget models that won’t break the bank to high-end luxury models that offer advanced functionality and design.

Before making our recommendations, our specialists spend substantial time researching and analyzing your requirements. Then we found the Coleman Gas Camping Stove | Classic Propane Stove, 2 Burner is the greatest choice for its high-quality performance. If you're looking for another one, consider Coleman Gas Camping Stove | Triton Propane Stove, 2 Burner.

Our Top Picks

  • Runtime: Up to 1 hour on high on one 16.4 oz. Propane cylinder (sold separately)
  • Cooking power: Up to 20,000 total BTUs. Fits a 12-inch and 10-inch pan at the same time
  • Wind-blocking panels: Shield burners from wind
  • 3-year limited warranty
  • Pressure regulator: Pressure-control technology for consistent performance, even in extreme conditions
  • 2 adjustable burners: For precise temperature control
TOP Choice #2 Coleman Gas Camping Stove | Triton Propane Stove, 2 Burner
Our Score:
9.7
Coleman
  • 5 ADJUSTABLE BURNERS: For precise temperature control
  • WIND-BLOCKING PANELS: Shield burners from wind and adjust for various pan sizes
  • COOKING POWER: Up to 22,000 total BTUs
  • EASY TO CLEAN: Chrome-plated grate and rust-resistant aluminum cooktop
  • PRESSURE REGULATOR: Pressure-control technology for consistent performance, even in extreme conditions
TOP Choice #3 Coleman Fold N Go Propane Stove, 2-Burner
Our Score:
9.6
Coleman
  • Matchless InstaStart ignition lights stove with the push of a button
  • Runs over an hour with both burners on high on a 16.4-ounce propane cylinder (sold separately)
  • Fits 2 pans (up to 10 inches each) and produces 20,000 total BTUs of cooking power
  • Pressure-control technology delivers consistent heat in outdoor conditions
  • Portable 2-burner propane stove ideal for cooking at campsites, picnics, and more
4 Odoland 16pcs Camping Cookware Set
Our Score:
9.4
Odoland
  • The Best Money You Ever Spent - The 16pcs camping cookware mess kit 's fully equipped for 1 to 2 people. This lightweight camping pots and pans set is a great choice for hiking, backpacking, camping or any other activity.
  • High Quality Pots and Pan - Both the camping pots pan and kettle are made from anodized aluminum which is non-toxic and lightweight. Non-stick coating for easier use and clean up. Each piece has handles which are foldable and thermally isolated so you don’t burn your hand.
  • Extra Stainless -Steel Dinner Cutleries - You also receive several accessories - 2 sets of dinner cutleries and 1 cleaning cloth. The dinner cutleries are made from 304 stainless steel which is completely safe to use. All the forks knives spoons are foldable and can be easily packed into the cloth bags for simple storages. The cleaning cloth is safe to use on the coated surface and allows you fast and easy clean-up after you're done.
  • Quick Heating Camping Stove - Fold to small size. Adjustable control valve for fast maximum heat output all the way down to a simmer quickly and efficiently. Rated rate: 3000w. Equipped with piezo ignition system, it's more convenience and practicable.
  • All -In-1 Small Package - All pieces nest great, and everything is stacked together and packed into a nylon mesh bag. Total weight is just 3.3lbs, and the package size measures 7.5x7.5x5 inches. You should definitely consider this camping mess kit for both backpacking as well as traditional camping cooking.
  • Adjustable wind block panels shield the flame from wind and fold down as side tables
  • Portable propane stove fits two 12 inch pans or three 8 inch pans at once for variety of meals
  • Matchless instastart ignition allows you to light the stove with the push of a button; Lasts up to .75 hours with all burners on high on one 16.4 oz propane cylinder (sold separately)
  • 3 adjustable even temp burners radiate heat evenly across the stove for consistent performance
  • Pressure control and fuel efficiency technologies ensure consistent performance outdoors
  • The Ignite Plus offers an innovative simmer control for high-precision flame adjustment; 10,000 BTU burners go from a light simmer to full output. Requires propane fuel to operate (not included) and offers a 90-minute burn time.
  • Jet Link compatibility allows you to connect from the output on other Eureka! stoves for camp kitchen flexibility (the Ignite must be the last line in a Jet Link chain of linked stoves, it cannot be the starting point).
  • Designed for compatibility with the Eureka! Griddle accessory (*sold separtely).
  • Great for big groups, cook for the whole crew with precision, flavor, and max pan capacity with the Eureka! Ignite Plus two-burner camping stove in blue. The adjustable, nonslip rubber feet ensures stove is always level and stays in place.
  • A push-button ignitor allows for fast, easy starts while the stove fits two 12-inch pans to create your campsite meals. A stainless-steel drip tray offers rust-free performance and easy cleanup.
  • Two dependable latches keep the lid secure during transport and an opening in the bottom of the stove functions as a handle for convenient carrying. Adjustable, nonslip rubber feet ensures stove is always level and stays in place.
  • Ideal for car camping, tailgating, backyard bbqs, picnics. and emergency use.
  • The stove measures 23" L x 12. 8" W x 4" H (closed); 25" L x 13. 5" W x 14" H (open) and weighs 12 pounds. Includes camp stove and stainless-steel drip tray (propane canister sold separately).
  • With rugged, thick-gauge steel construction, this portable stove is designed for years of use camp cooking in the great outdoors, and is an essential piece of equipment for a survival kit in case of emergency.
  • Eureka! found its humble beginnings in 1895 and today their camping gear gives you the freedom to have fun - from tents to cooking systems, and sleeping bags to camp furniture - reliable, easy-to-use, and packed with features campers care about.
  • Rainier - Compact Dual Burner Propane Stove
  • Full rear and side wind screens
  • Metal socket injector valve fits either 16.4 oz. or 14.1 oz. disposable propane cylinder not included
  • Powder coated finish on heavy gauge steel
  • Care instructions: hand wash
  • Chrome plated grid
  • Two adjustable anti-clog burners provide up to 10,000 BTUs each
  • EASY INSTALLATION & USE: No need to buy hose connector or other accessories, it’s ready to be used after connecting to a 16 oz propane tank. Or you can buy a propane hose connector if the propane tank is over 16oz. The portable propane gas stove has a windshield fixing clip which helps you to continue cooking if the weather becomes windy suddenly or facing other unfavorable weathers.
  • SUITABLE FOR DIFFERENT OCCASIONS: This outdoor stove is suitable for various scenarios, such as camping, BBQ, party, family emergency backup...It can be managed easily and provide steady cooking performance as it holds true even in different environment.
  • PORTABLE: This 3-burner portable gas stove comes with a carry handle that allows you to carry it conveniently. It has a compact structure and weights only 10lbs which makes it even easier to carry it around. It can be taken along in a luggage or storage box, or even large tote bag, so carrying this portable camping gas stove is a breeze thing to do! Size: 23.4”x12.8”x3.4", Weight:9.9 LB
  • ADJUSTABLE 3 BURNERS : This portable propane gas stove for camping is equipped with 3 independently adjustable knobs, two of Piezo ignition burners with 6,600 BTU power. The middle downward burner is designed for toasting, 7200BTU power and requires manual ignition. We recommend that you use a piezo lighter. It relies on heat radiation to heat and won't burn the toast.
  • EASY TO CLEAN: Our portable gas stove comes with a drip tray that makes it easy for quick clean up. You won’t be bothered by stains on tables or clothes. All you need to do after cooking is to remove the tray and wipe it until it looks clean again, and put it back to the stove case.
  • NOTICE:Please make sure that the gas will not leak before use. You can test it with soapy water on the connection. If you see bubbles or even hear gas leaks, please don't use it and contact us.
  • [New Upgrade Copper Furnace Core] — The backpacking stove is made of high-quality stainless steel and copper, stands high temperature and weight, anti-corrosion,strong oxidation resistance. The center of the camp stoves made of copper material, which will not burn the furnace core to create a break. The collapsible bracket is anti-skid and high strength,bearing capacity almost 75KG.
  • [Foldable & Portable Camping Accessories] — With a sleek, ergonomic design, this compact and folding camping cooking set easily fits in your camping backpack! It is perfect camping gear/hiking gear/camp kitchen equipment/backpacking gear to start your barbecue party, picnic, outdoor cooking, travel, mountaineering, fishing, snow area, or other outdoor activities. It is also survival gear and equipment.
  • [Windproof Design] — This 18000W backpack stove is equipped with level 6 windproof technology. It can be easily used even in the wild and windy environment!
  • [High Energy Efficiency & Flame control] — With the flame adjustment knob you can adjust the flame size as you need. It can reach 1800W firepower and boil water in a short time. Carry with a piezoelectric ignition system. Honeycomb mesh design with windshield, concentrated flame combustion, saving gas fuel. (Note: Please press the ignition several times if it isn't ignited by once! )
  • [Extension Catheter] — The duct is lengthened to 105cm, making it easier for you to use it in cooking. At the same time, keep the gas tank farther away from the fire source.
  • Sturdy Folding Support Legs: The camp stove has two sturdy folding support legs. The right height to make cooking easier.
  • Easy to Carry: Lightweight Portable camping stove with compact size 21.5 x 12.6 x 4 inches, lightweight only 10.04lbs. Heavy-duty latch keeps propane stove closed and an opening in the bottom of the camp stove acts as a handle for easy portability for car camping, tailgating, BBQ, Picnics, Garden and emergency use.
  • Easy to Clean: The portable camping stove has a stainless steel drip tray. After you finish cooking, all you need to do is remove the grate for a quick cleanup.
  • Large Side Supports: The propane camping stove has two large side supports. So you can continue cooking without any disruption whatsoever.
  • Powerful Stove: The camping stove has 2 burners (2 x 10000 Each Burner) of cooking power. The propane stove use piezo ignition and independent knob to control the flame.

What to Look For in a best camping stove for car camping?

Buyers are frequently hesitant to purchase best camping stove for car camping. Certain factors should be considered while making a significant purchase. Our understanding and expertise with best camping stove for car camping will assist you in making the right decisions.

Please take the following points into consideration before selecting best camping stove for car camping:

Ignition: Strikers Vs. Matches

Sometimes called piezo incendiers, or auto-igniters, strikers are buttons that use electricity to excite a spark and ignite a stove. It's similar to the button that lights up the pilot light in your home stove.
Metal and flint are other options for sparking. A camp stove with an integrated igniter is my preference. As long as it works well, I will always use this option.
A match is your last choice for lighting your camp stove. Matches can prove to be wasteful and fragile. They also don't all hold up well in harsh weather. As an alternative, you can always take flint and some matches.

Performance In Wind

Consider how frequently and in what circumstances (such as cold weather) your stove will be used. You will have more chances to experience wind and harsh weather if you travel further.
It's not something that you should learn while on a 10 day camping trip along the New England coast. You can check the specifications, find out if your stove offers windscreens, and review customer experiences.
You can make your stove more efficient in colder areas by purchasing extra BTUs if you live in windy regions.

Number Of Burners

A two-burner camp stove is a good choice if you plan to spend at least 2-3 months camping each year, even if your household is small. You can cook with two burners, so you have both the option to use a pan and a pot, or make one main dish while cooking for a family of four.
Two-burner stoves remain the norm. There are many options for single-burner stoves, as well as a handful of three-burner models.

Simmer Control

Because boiling water doesn't always work, we did extensive testing on the simmer control. You need to not only be able boil water, but you also have to cook, bake, stir fry, stew, or grill in order to make a camp meal that is chef-worthy. To see the stacking of the burners/stoves, we measured their simmering temperatures.

Weight And Packed Size

The biggest difference between stoves in this category is their weight. These stoves can be carried around in your car, but they are designed for camping. Weight might not be as important if you are looking for a strong and reliable two-burner.
Packing size is what matters more. You have a limited amount of space at your campsite or in your vehicle. You should check to make sure the stove can fit into a bag, is covered, and where the grill and fuel lines are stored. Are all the pieces stored in one place? Are accessories taking up more space than the main item? All these factors should be considered for your individual preferences and needs.

Fuel Types And Capacities

As you can see, the majority of stoves in this article use propane canisters up to one-pound. Some stoves use butane as an alternative fuel. It all depends on the time it takes to cook meals, and on what temperature your burner is set. A one-pound canister usually lasts three to four meals.

BTUs

BTU is the British Thermal Unit. It's basically a measure of heat and energy. On average, a gas stove that you would find in your home uses 6,000 to 8,000 BTUs.
Lower BTUs are good for light and simmering cooking. Higher BTUs, which are above 10,000, indicate high heat cooking. This is great for longer cook times as well as for quick boiling of large quantities of water.

Time To Boil

Camping is a great way to get out and enjoy nature. Yes, camping also involves enjoying the outdoors and good food. A camp stove must be able to boil water.
While some stoves boil in three minutes, others can take up to 10 minutes. A stove with the highest boiling time is considered a good stove. However, it doesn't always mean that the stove will be the most efficient. You may need to give up some boiling time if you want certain features like a lighter stove or an igniter.
The stoves that we tested were all able to light/start and heat the water in less than 8 minutes.

FAQs

Which Is Better — A Butane Or Propane Camping Stove?

Butane as well as propane both have pros and cons. Both gases are compressed gases, which is gas stored in liquid form. Butane performs less in colder temperatures. There are many sizes of propane canisters. This makes it easier to find the right size for your needs.
You should consider the climate in which you will be using your camp stove most often. You can also find propane in large cities, rural areas, and general stores close to national parks or state lines.

What Size Do I Need?

There are many sizes of stoves, from small ultra-light ones to large multi-hob models with grills. These can be used to prepare almost any meal you make at home. A simple, small camping stove is sufficient for camping solo or with your partner.
A lightweight backpacking stove that can work in all weather conditions is worth it if you are going on an extended expedition or wild camping trip. We recommend buying the largest camping stove possible if you plan to take your family on a camping trip. Having multiple burners allows you to cook in every field.

Are Multi-Fuel Stoves Difficult To Use?

No. They do require more preparation and care than canister stoves. They are easy to learn once you have the necessary procedures.

What Stove Is Best For Cooking Actual Food?

A stove with enough BTU output and can heat is the best. It can be used to cook food in a pot. These stoves are generally used for car camping/basecamp cooking.

Backpacking Stove Vs. Camping Stove: What's The Difference?

The backpacking stoves can be small, single-burner units. They fit into a backpack or even your palm. They weigh in at a mere ounce. However, camping stoves are only used for "base camp", whether you're camping in a car, truck, National Parks or somewhere else.
The camp stove is larger and more heavy (8-14 lbs) and can be placed on top of a truck bed, tabletop, picnic table or camp table to convert your campsite into a kitchen.
You now have all of the information you need to camp, cook, and just enjoy the outdoors.

What Burn Time Should I Look Out For?

Stoves are often advertised with their boil and burn times. This is especially important if your campsite is far from civilization. You should also consider your weight, especially if backpacking. It is also useful to transport and store your stove in its own containers or bag.

Can You Use A Camping Stove Inside A Tent?

No. No. Your tent may catch on fire, and your body could be engulfed in a molten nylon coating, leading to a terrible, unimaginable death.

I’m Going To Travel. Which Type Of Stove Would Be Best?

It depends. A backpacking stove is the best option if you are traveling on foot with a backpack. Car? Get a camping stove for your car. Check with the airline to find out what they allow you to bring aboard, and what fuels will be available. Most airlines won't allow you to fly without fuel.

We constantly update the list of best camping stove for car camping as new data becomes available. For the most up-to-date information, please visit our website regularly.

Please feel free to contact us if you have any queries or concerns with best camping stove for car camping. If you ask, we'll do our hardest to help you in any way we can!


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About Hailey Abbott

Hailey Abbott
Hailey Abbott is an outdoor enthusiast and freelance writer for CampfireHQ. She has a passion for hunting and fishing, which she often enjoys with her family and friends. Hailey also enjoys staying active through sports such as golf, basketball, and softball. Hailey has worked as an editor for several years, providing content that is both accurate and engaging. She has also had the opportunity to interview numerous experts in various fields. This wealth of experience gives her a unique perspective when writing about the outdoors and other topics.

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