Two-Burner Stove Basics

When to use this

Any car-camp meal beyond a hot dog on a stick.

• Boiling water for coffee
• Frying eggs and bacon
• Heating a pot of chili

What you need

• Two-burner propane stove
• 1 lb propane canister (or a 5 lb tank with adapter)
• Pot or pan
• Long lighter or match

Step by step

1. 1.Set the stove on a flat, stable surface, away from the tent and any low-hanging branches.
2. 2.Thread the propane canister onto the stove’s gas inlet hand-tight only — don’t use tools.
3. 3.Open the windscreens fully so the burners get airflow.
4. 4.Turn one burner knob to "Light." You should hear gas hissing.
5. 5.Hold a long lighter at the burner edge and ignite. The flame should be blue with light yellow tips.
6. 6.Adjust the knob for the heat you want. Cook normally.
7. 7.When done, turn the burner knob fully off. The flame should die immediately. Then close the propane canister valve.

Pro tips

• Always test a canister connection by spreading a drop of dish soap on the joint with the gas on. Bubbles = leak.
• Yellow, smoky flame means dirty burner ports. Brush them clean before next trip.

Common mistakes

• Leaving the canister attached and stored in a hot car — pressure builds.
• Cooking inside a tent. Carbon monoxide is silent and lethal.