Mercedes Mullins
Isobutane is a popular fuel choice for canister stoves used in backpacking. It is highly efficient, requiring only 0.85 ounces of fuel per meal, which is about 23% less than white gas. Isobutane is available in various blends, with some containing 80% isobutane and 20% propane, while others have 85% isobutane and 15% propane. These blends are suitable for three-season use, and the addition of propane improves performance in colder temperatures. Isobutane has a boiling point of 11 degrees Fahrenheit, making it suitable for trips above freezing. However, its performance may drop in colder conditions due to evaporative cooling. Isobutane fuel canisters are widely available and commonly used by thru-hikers, making them easily accessible for backpackers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Boiling point | 11 degrees Fahrenheit |
| Efficiency | 23% more efficient than white gas |
| Burn time | 0.85 ounces per meal |
| Fuel weight per meal | Heavier than white gas |
| Fuel canister weight | 8 oz canister weighs 13.2 oz |
| Price | $6 per 8 oz canister |
| Availability | Widely available for AT thru-hikers |
| Blend | 80% isobutane/20% propane |
| Seasonality | Four-season mix |
| Performance | Suffers near freezing |
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What You'll Learn
Isobutane is the preferred fuel for canister stoves
Isobutane is a popular choice of fuel for canister stoves, particularly for backpacking trips. It is a variant of butane that can hold a higher vapour pressure, making it a better-performing fuel. Isobutane is often blended with propane to further enhance its performance, and this mixture is considered ideal for backpackers due to its versatility, minimal weight, performance across a broad temperature range, and cost.
Isobutane is a common fuel type for canister stoves because it works well for trips in temperatures above freezing. It has a boiling point of about 11 degrees Fahrenheit, at which point it turns from a liquid to a gas, which is necessary for upright canister stoves. However, isobutane may not perform as well in colder temperatures, especially when used for longer periods, as the canister can become much colder than the outside ambient temperature due to evaporative cooling. This can result in a noticeable drop in performance.
To address the issue of evaporative cooling, some backpackers choose to keep their fuel canisters in their sleeping bags at night, helping to regulate the temperature and improve performance in colder conditions. Additionally, choosing a blend with a higher concentration of propane can improve performance in colder temperatures, as propane has a much lower boiling point of -44 degrees Fahrenheit.
Isobutane fuel canisters are widely available and can be found at various outfitters, hostels, and resupply locations along popular backpacking trails. They are also recyclable, with some brands offering free canister recycling at their warranty and repair shops. However, it is important to note that isobutane canisters are not refillable, and purchasing refilled canisters in foreign countries can create a dangerous situation.
Overall, isobutane is a preferred fuel for canister stoves, especially for backpacking trips in temperatures above freezing. Its high vapour pressure, blend options, availability, and recyclability make it a convenient and efficient choice for many outdoor enthusiasts.
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Isobutane is more efficient than white gas
Isobutane is a popular choice for backpackers and hikers due to its efficiency and portability. While white gas has its advantages, isobutane outperforms it in several key areas.
Firstly, isobutane is more efficient in terms of fuel consumption. It requires less fuel to achieve the same output as white gas. For instance, isobutane needs only 0.85 ounces of fuel per meal, while white gas requires 1.1 ounces, resulting in an efficiency gain of approximately 23%. This means that, despite often being more expensive per canister, isobutane can provide better value for money in the long run.
Secondly, isobutane is more convenient for short trips. While white gas canisters may be more weight-efficient overall, especially for longer trips, isobutane canisters are smaller and more portable. This makes them ideal for shorter trips where space and weight are at a premium.
Thirdly, isobutane stoves require less maintenance than white gas stoves. White gas burns much dirtier, leaving soot on the stove and necessitating more frequent cleaning and upkeep. Isobutane, on the other hand, is considered more idiot-proof and user-friendly, requiring less maintenance overall.
However, it is worth noting that isobutane's performance decreases in colder temperatures. While many isobutane fuels are now designed for four seasons, they may struggle in freezing temperatures. White gas stoves, on the other hand, are known for their reliability in cold weather, making them a better choice for winter camping or hiking.
In conclusion, while both types of fuel have their advantages, isobutane is generally more efficient and convenient for backpackers and hikers, especially on shorter trips and in milder weather conditions.
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Isobutane is best for trips above freezing
Isobutane is a popular choice for backpackers and hikers, and for good reason. With a boiling point of about 11 degrees Fahrenheit, it is an excellent option for trips above freezing. In fact, isobutane is often referred to as the "bread and butter" of quality canister stove fuels.
Its efficiency is one of its key advantages. Isobutane requires only 0.85 ounces of fuel per meal, compared to 1.1 ounces for white gas, making it about 23% more efficient. This efficiency becomes even more pronounced during longer burn times. While white gas may have the advantage for shorter trips, if you're out for more than a couple of days, isobutane is the better choice.
Isobutane's performance does begin to drop when temperatures approach freezing, especially with longer boil times. This is due to the evaporative cooling effect, where the canister cools down via evaporative cooling, resulting in a canister temperature that is lower than the ambient temperature. This can cause a significant drop in performance, even when temperatures are above freezing. However, there are ways to mitigate this issue. For example, keeping the canister in your sleeping bag at night can help maintain its temperature and improve performance.
Isobutane is widely available, and you won't have trouble finding it along popular hiking trails. It's a versatile option for three-season trips, and with proper care, it can even be used in colder temperatures. Its efficiency and availability make it a top choice for backpackers and hikers embarking on journeys above freezing.
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Isobutane is popular among AT thru-hikers
Isobutane is a popular fuel option for thru-hikers on the Appalachian Trail (AT). It is widely available from outfitters, hostels, and resupply locations along the trail, making it a convenient choice for hikers who don't want to worry about running out of fuel or having to carry extra fuel canisters.
Isobutane is also known for its efficiency. It requires less fuel per meal compared to other options like white gas, which means hikers can carry less fuel and save weight in their packs. This is a significant advantage when hiking long distances, as every ounce counts.
Additionally, isobutane fuel canisters come in different sizes, including 4oz, 8oz, and 16oz. Thru-hikers can choose the size that best suits their needs and cooking habits, further optimizing their pack weight.
While isobutane is a popular choice, it does have some limitations. It has a relatively high boiling point of 11 degrees Fahrenheit, which means it may not perform as well in colder temperatures. In freezing conditions, hikers may experience a drop in performance due to the evaporative cooling effect. To mitigate this, some hikers choose to sleep with their fuel canisters or keep them warm, ensuring the fuel burns efficiently.
Overall, isobutane is a popular fuel option among AT thru-hikers due to its wide availability, efficiency, and convenience. While it may have some limitations in cold weather, proper management techniques can help ensure a reliable fuel source for cooking on the trail.
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Isobutane is cheaper than white gas
Isobutane is a popular choice of fuel for backpackers and hikers, and for good reason. While white gas may be initially more attractive due to its longer burn time, isobutane is much more efficient. White gas requires 1.1 ounces of fuel per meal, while isobutane needs only 0.85 ounces—that's an efficiency gain of 23%. This means that, despite white gas being ahead in terms of fuel weight per meal, the longer burn time of white gas is outweighed by the efficiency of isobutane.
The cost of isobutane is also a factor in its popularity. An 8 oz canister of MSR isobutane costs $6, or $0.75 per ounce, whereas a quart (32 oz) of Crown white gas costs $7, or $0.21 per ounce. This means that isobutane is over three times the price per ounce, and with the price difference, you can buy 13 canisters, or enough fuel for 100 meals. For the price difference to be offset, it would take around 150 isobutane canisters.
The popularity of isobutane is also due to its convenience and ease of use. Isobutane fuel canisters can be found at any outfitter and are also available at many hostels or resupply locations along popular hiking trails. In addition, isobutane canisters are simple and quick to use—all you need to do is screw on the canister and light it, and you can be heating up water in less than a minute. On the other hand, white gas stoves like the Whisperlite require maintenance and are more finicky and labour-intensive to use.
While isobutane is a popular choice for good reason, there are some considerations to keep in mind. Isobutane canisters take up more space than liquid fuel bottles, and they are not always recyclable. Additionally, isobutane performs poorly in cold temperatures, especially when used for longer periods, as the canister cools down and affects performance. In such cases, white gas or other liquid fuels may be preferred.
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Frequently asked questions
Isobutane is often sold in 8 oz canisters, which contain up to 227g of fuel.
This depends on the number of meals you will be cooking and the length of your trip. An 8 oz isobutane canister can provide fuel for about 8 meals.
An 8 oz canister takes up about 50% more space in your backpack but it is more weight-efficient than a fuel bottle.
A blend with more propane is better for cold weather. Olicamp's blend of 25% propane and 75% isobutane is considered the best cold-weather blend in the US market.
It is important to lubricate the fuel line to protect the tube o-ring. You can use MSR Pump Cup Oil, mineral oil, saliva, or a non-petroleum-based lubricant.
