The Best Backpacking Stoves.
These are three of the best backpacking stoves I've found. Why three? Because ultralight backpackers value weight, while travellers value versatility and still others want the quickest way possible to a pot of boiling water. We're all different, so here's what I've found... Versatile, go anywhere stove The MSR Whisperlite International Stove (even though this takes you to a page that says the product isn't available, it's actually part-way down the page.) It can burn white gas, kerosene or unleaded gasoline. I would suggest using the white gas whenever possible as it burns much cleaner. Although it comes with the shaker jet to help keep things easy, wouldn't it be better to avoid soot as much as possible in the first place?
It's also respectably lightweight, with a packaged weight of 15.5 oz. (460 g) and a minimum weight of 11.5 oz. (330 g). That's pretty decent, unless you're an ultralight backpacker... I've heard they drill holes in their titanium coffee cups to save weight. ;-) As I mention on the camping stove page multi-fuel stoves have some advantages and disadvantages over canister-type backpacking stoves. But if you're looking to travel you'll want a stove like this because it's much easier to find fuel. Canisters and even white gas can be a challenge to find in some countries, and that's when kerosene and unleaded gas and the choice between several options can come in extremely handy. Pros: A great backpacking stove for conditions that range from miserably cold (way below zero degrees Fahrenheit) to Habanero hot (100+ degrees F) and from sea level to over 10,000 feet. Boils water in about 3 and 3/4 minutes. Durable and reliable when maintained properly. Cons: The pump used to be fragile, but I contacted MSR and they stated that this has been addressed with a new pump design. It's something to note though, just in case. Quick heat, but simmering can be a challenge. State-of-the-art backpacking stoves
At 15 ounces (425 grams) the Jetboil isn't a Pocket Rocket, but it's still pretty light. Especially after you subtract the weight of your old pot and cup you can now leave home. On top of that the Jetboil is at least twice as efficient as most other typical backpacking stoves that are only 30-40% efficient. How much weight can half as many fuel canisters save you? Plus, using less fuel means it's more environmentally friendly and inexpensive to use, too. The Jetboil stove packs down to 4.1 in. x 7.1 in. (10.4 cm x 18.0 cm) when the stove and burner are stowed inside the 1 liter cup it comes with. When in use it still only stands 11.5 in. (29.2 cm) high.
Pros: Save weight by using your Jetboil as a cup and pot and leave the other stuff at home. Because of the insulation, FluxRing and wind shield this stove is very efficient and uses a lot less fuel. Versatility saves weight. Stove and fuel canister can pack inside the cup/pot. As with most canister stoves, you also get heat fast. Cons: Aluminum cup, a choice of titanium would be nice. (See canister issues below.) Ultra-lightweight 
If weight is critically important to you then have a look at MSR's Pocketrocket Backpacking Stoves (shown here with the Titan Kettle Kit). The Pocket Rocket folds down to a compact 3.5 in. x 2 in. (8.8 cm x 5 cm) so it won't take up much room in your pack either. Of course less weight means there's no windscreen, but positioning and the safe and creative use of tinfoil can help with that. ;-) Another thing to be aware of is most canister stoves can exhibit some performance issues in cold weather. This can usually be cured quite easily by warming it up inside your jacket or sleeping bag before you need it. The Pocket Rocket is decently stable for its weight, just keep in mind it's designed to be light. If you tend to bump into things you might want to find something a little more substantial with a good base of support... but if you're a minimalist you're going to love the Pocket Rocket. Pros: Tiny at only 3.5 in. x 2 in. (8.8 cm x 5 cm) folded and it only weighs 3 oz. (85 grams). Lightweight, simple, easy-to-use, inexpensive stove. Doesn't require pumping or the additional start-up time that liquid fuel stoves do for fuel vaporization. Cons: Doesn't work as well as pump camping stoves at lower temperatures, wind and altitude. Empty canisters can be a little more difficult to dispose of than a white gas container. Like anything, each of the above backpacking stoves has its advantages and disadvantages. The key is to decide what is important to you and then choose the backpacking stove that will best meet your needs/wants. Personally, if you don't do much high altitude backpacking, I'd lean toward the Jetboil See you on the trail.
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