The Only 2 Camp Stoves I Use (And When I Use Each)

Jetboil Flash — My Reliable System

I’ve had this stove for over 10 years.

It’s been on four continents, multiple countries, and it’s still going strong.

I’ve made a lot of meals with it and drank a lot of coffee out of it.

This is the one I trust when I want something simple and reliable.

When I Use It

• Boiling water fast

• Cold or windy conditions

• When I don’t want to think about setup

Why It Works

It’s a complete system. Everything is designed to work together, which makes it efficient and consistent.

👉 If you want a simple, reliable system →View Jetboil Setup

MSR PocketRocket 2 — What I Use Most for Backpacking

This is the stove I use the most for backpacking.

It’s simple. You attach it to a fuel canister, pick whatever pot you want, and you’re good to go.

I usually run it with a titanium mug to keep things light and simple.

When I Use It

• Backpacking trips

• Lightweight setups

• When I want flexibility with different pots

Why It Works

It’s not a system—it’s just a stove. That makes it lighter, more versatile, and easier to adapt to different setups.

👉 If you want a lightweight, flexible setup → View PocketRocket Setup

How I Decide Which One to Bring

If I want speed and simplicity → I grab the Jetboil

If I want lightweight and flexibility → I grab the PocketRocket

I use both regularly. I just don’t use them for the same trips.

What Most People Get Wrong

Most people try to find the “best” stove.

I’ve found it’s better to know which stove fits your trip.

My Current Setup

Right now, these are the only two stoves I use.

I’m not trying new ones every season—I stick with what works.

If you’re trying to simplify your gear, start here and pick based on how you actually hike and camp.

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