At any outdoor supply store, you’ll be amazed at the selection of camping stoves available. The number of options can be overwhelming, especially for someone who hasn’t camped much before. Stoves are generally divided into two main groups. One group is destined to camp out in the country, where everything they need is carried on their backs. Stoves prioritize being as small and light as possible. Unfortunately, this means that they can be very expensive and difficult to use. They almost universally have a single burner.
The other type of stove is designed for motorhomes. Although still portable, these stoves weigh much more and typically have two different burners. They are intended for situations where you are cooking 5 or 10 feet from your car. They prioritize the convenience of cooking over being as light as possible.
Another difference between stoves is the type of fuel they use. The most compact stoves usually use white gas, which is a type of liquid fuel. A small amount of fuel lasts a long time, making it ideal for backpacking. RV stoves are more likely to use a small propane tank. These are not light enough to carry in your backpack, but they are very comfortable to wear. If your main needs are camping in the car, feel free to buy a less expensive and heavier stove. Trying to use a small stove designed for backpacking on your picnic table will be frustrating as they are often not very user friendly.