The reality is actually quite simple.

The first type of stove is a pressurized fuel stove. Pressurized stoves generally use isobutane or a butane/propane fuel mixture, and they are the easiest to use. All you have to do is screw the stove into the top of the pressurized fuel canister. There will be a small valve on the bottom of the stove to turn on/adjust the gas. Turn the valve on and strike a flame over the top of the stove. Voila! You're cooking.

Some stoves even come with a built-in igniter. This is a little switch that you press to create a spark over the stove, saving you from ever needing to strike a match.

When you finish cooking, simply unscrew the fuel canister and pack it away. The canister is self-sealing so you don't have to worry about spills.

Pros:

·         Pressurized stoves are very simple to use.

·         There are fewer parts to break down in the field.

·         Minimal maintenance.

·         Initially cheaper than a non-pressurized stove.

Cons:

·         Pressurized fuel looses pressure as the fuel in the canister drops, giving you inconsistent cooking times.

·         Pressure is also affected by altitude and cold weather. Pressurized fuel stoves may not function at higher altitudes or at temperatures around zero degrees Celsius.

·         The canisters, while widely available, are not reusable.

·         Fuel is more expensive.

The second type of stove is a non-pressurized stove. These stoves most commonly run on white gas, but some can burn a variety of fuel types. They come with a refillable fuel canister that you pressurize yourself with a small hand pump that screws into the top of the canister.

The pump and fuel canister attach to the stove by a fuel line. You'll need to pump the fuel canister (20-30 times) until firm resistance is felt. Once the fuel is pressurized, open up the valve and either use a built-in igniter or a lighter to ignite the stove.

Pros:

·         Hand pumping keeps the fuel pressure consistent, giving you reliable cooking time/ performance regardless of altitude or temperature.

·         Reusable container means less waste and no compatibility problems if traveling abroad.

·         Some non-pressurized stoves can burn multiple types of fuel.

·         Fuel is less expensive that pressurized canisters, giving you better value in the long run over the pressurized stove.

Cons:

·         You'll need to clean your stove and fuel line and do regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance.

·         Bulkier than a pressurized stove.

·         Refillable fuel canister is purchased separately.

Once you've decided which type of stove works best for you, there are a few common features that are worth looking for in a stove.

·         Windscreen. This is a metallic screen that wraps loosely around your stove to block the wind and increase the heat. It works great for non-pressurized stoves. Unless it's built-in however, don't use a windscreen with a pressurized canister stove. The metallic surface will reflect too much heat back towards the fuel canister, creating the possibility for an explosion.

·         Heat Exchanger. This built-in feature increases the efficiency of your stove by making it hotter faster.

·         Base. A wide stable base is ideal. If your stove gets top-heavy and tips over, you'll lose your soup!

A happy stomach can turn the wettest escapade into a great adventure, and a good stove will quickly become your best friend in the wild. Now that you know how to pick the stove that's right for you, what's stopping you? Brave the elements, make some memories, and do something different. Be sure to take a lot of pictures!

Go play outside.