Single Burner Camping Stove vs Griddle: Which to Pack

Quick answer

Choose a single burner camping stove when you need a compact, easy-to-carry cooktop for quick meals, and a griddle when you want a larger flat surface for cooking multiple items at once.

Why portability matters on the trail

When you're hiking to a campsite or packing a small vehicle, every ounce counts. A single burner camping stove is designed to be compact and easy to carry, often featuring a sturdy handle and a locking lid that secures the burner during transport. This makes it a natural fit for backpacking or any trip where space is tight.

A griddle, by contrast, typically offers a larger cooking surface but takes up more room and weight. If your campsite is close to the car, that trade-off may be worth it for the extra cooking flexibility.

Cooking style: quick meals vs full spreads

A single burner stove excels at boiling water, simmering a pot of stew, or cooking a simple one-pan meal. It's straightforward and efficient when you're feeding one or two people.

A griddle shines when you want to cook multiple items at once—think pancakes, eggs, bacon, and hash browns all on the same flat surface. If you're cooking for a group or enjoy a hearty camp breakfast, the extra surface area is a real advantage.

The trade-off: versatility vs convenience

The main trade-off is versatility versus convenience. A griddle gives you more cooking options but demands more space and setup effort. A single burner stove is easier to pack and set up, but you'll need to cook in batches or stick to one-pot meals.

Consider your typical trip: if you're constantly on the move, the single burner's portability wins. If you're base-camping and have room to spare, a griddle might serve you better.

How to choose: single burner vs griddle

• If you prioritize portability: Go with a single burner camping stove when you'll be hiking, biking, or packing light. Its compact design and carrying handle make it easy to bring along.
• If you cook for a group: Choose a griddle when you need to cook multiple items at once for several people. The larger cooking surface saves time at mealtime. Think about how many people you typically feed.
• If you want flexibility: Select a single burner stove if you mainly boil water or cook simple meals. Opt for a griddle if you enjoy varied breakfasts or stir-fries that benefit from a flat top. Match the gear to your usual camp menu.

Single Burner Camping Stove at a glance

• Single Burner Camping Stove: The Blackstone OTG Single Burner Camping Stove is compact and easy to carry with a sturdy handle, plus a built-in locking lid to secure the burner during transport. This makes it a practical choice for campers who need a stove that's simple to pack and move between locations.

  

Which one fits your trip?

Best for

• Solo campers or couples who need a compact, easy-to-carry stove for quick meals
• Backpackers and hikers who prioritize lightweight gear

Not for

• Large groups that want to cook multiple dishes simultaneously
• Campers who have plenty of vehicle space and want a versatile cooking surface