The lighter your backpack, the more camping cred you carry. Which is why this Vertex Backpacking Stove might be ideal for any serious outdoorswoman. The stainless-steel contraption weighs just 1.8 ounces and folds down flat (as shown below) so you can slip it in your bag like a map. It requires no tools or screws to put together, and its creators allege that it can be assembled in seconds. (Full disclosure: We haven’t tried it just yet.)


This stove is designed to work with two main fuel types: tablets and alcohol burners. For the uninitiated, fuel tablets are a favorite among survivalists because you can count them to know exactly how much energy (read: warmth) you have left; they leave no damaging trace on your camping site; and they burn in low temperatures and at high altitudes. Each tablet burns for about 12 minutes.


Vertex is also designed to fit the Trangia Spirit Burner, which we hear is popular among no-fuss backpackers. Though the burner securely locks into side slots placed on the Vertex (as shown below), it’s not included with the stove. You’ll have to pick one up at your local hardware store.

Keep in mind, however, that this little gizmo is not designed to burn wood. Plus, as someone who has trouble with even the simplest IKEA projects, the claims of easy assembly are worrisome.

Still, it’s a handy design, and its light weight is very promising. If you back it on Kickstarter — it’s already surpassed its $8,000 goal — you can expect one in your mailbox by March, along with a lifetime warranty, for $50.