Which camping stove type is most fuel-efficient?

White gas (petrol) stoves are the most efficient at around 55%, closely followed by canister gas at 50%. Meths stoves run at about 35% efficiency. Wood stoves and Esbit tablets are least efficient but have the advantage of not carrying fuel or finding it locally.

How much fuel do I need per day?

For canister gas, plan for 50-80g per person per day with 2-3 boils. A 230g canister lasts one person about 3-4 days. For meths, you need roughly double the weight. Esbit tablets weigh 14g each; plan for 2-3 tablets per boil.

Does wind really affect stove performance that much?

Yes, significantly. Moderate wind can increase fuel consumption by 35% or more. A windshield is the single most effective efficiency improvement for any stove type. Even a simple foil windshield makes a major difference.

What about altitude effects on stove performance?

At altitude, water boils at a lower temperature (roughly 1°C less per 300m) so you need less energy to reach boiling point. However, canister gas stoves lose performance in cold, thin air. Liquid fuel stoves maintain better performance at high altitude.

CampCalcs

Stove Efficiency Calculator — Fuel Comparison

Compare stove fuel efficiency across types for trip planning. Calculate fuel weight and cost.

Stove TypeType of camping stove

Trip Length

Total days on the trip

Boils Per Day

Number of times you boil water each day

Water Per Boil

Volume of water per boil

Wind ConditionsExpected wind exposure during cooking

How We Calculate This

The calculator estimates total fuel needed from the number of boils, water volume, stove efficiency and conditions.

Fuel calculation

Fuel (g) = Energy needed / (Stove efficiency x Energy per gram)

Stove efficiency (sheltered)

Canister gas: ~50%
Meths: ~35%
Esbit: ~30%
Wood: ~20%
White gas: ~55%

Wind reduces efficiency significantly. A good windshield is essential.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Calculators

Calorie Calculator

Calculate daily calorie needs based on activity level, terrain and pack weight.

Water Requirement Calculator

Estimate water needs per day based on temperature, exertion and altitude.

Meal Planning Calculator

Plan meals for your trip with calorie targets, weight budgets and shopping lists.

Fuel Canister Calculator

Calculate how many fuel canisters you need based on meals, boil times and altitude.

Stove Burn Time Calculator

Estimate how long your stove fuel will last based on canister size and burn rate.

Last updated: March 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always verify conditions and use proper safety equipment outdoors.