A stove is a must have for me on backcountry trips.  Even when the intention is to cook over an open fire, it comes in handy when there are rainy/windy conditions or when you are simply tired from a long day on the water.

MSR Pocket Rocket 2

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I have been using the MSR Pocket Rocket 2 backpacking stove for the past couple years and absolutely love it.  It’s super compact and aside from the fuel canister it takes up very little room in the pack. 

It burns efficiently and a small canister has been more than sufficient for my 4-5 day trips. Despite its size, I have used large fry pans and pots on it when needed, ensuring it’s on level ground and carefully monitored.

The stove (and other items) nests perfectly in my GSI Halulite minimalist cookset that I use to boil water. I am by no means a backpacker or focused on being as light as possible, but it allows me to carry more items which is beneficial when on solo trips.