I’m planning on doing some walks in South America’s Andes mountains next season. When it comes to camp stoves what do I have to consider when using one at high altitudes?
Graham Williams, Manly, NSW
Graham, fuel type and quality are going to dictate your choice of stove. Low-grade kerosene is probably going to be the easiest fuel to find and carry, however, if you are only planning short quick trips to the mountains then you could use gas. First, check where the best places to purchase fuel are going to be along your itinerary, then consider the following:
Low-grade kerosene requires a multi-fuel stove that will require very regular maintenance (almost daily) to clean soot and debris.
Liquid fuel stoves with simmer control do not burn fuel as efficiently, weigh more, are harder to maintain and are more expensive than those without.
Some liquid multi-fuel stoves are designed