For any serious backpacker, a Jetboil camp stove is a vital piece of equipment to have on hand. They’re reliable, long lasting and efficient. It’s understandable then, that you may want to extend its use beyond backpacking trips and make use of it in the home. But can you use a Jetboil indoors?
Using a Jetboil indoors is not recommended due to the risk of carbon monoxide build up. If you do decide to use it indoors, make sure to introduce adequate ventilation. Always make sure to use a carbon monoxide detector to detect any dangerous fumes in the space.
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Types of Camping Stoves
Propane
Propane fuelled stoves are the most commonly found type of stove. They make use of a 1lb propane canister which is a reasonably cheap and efficient way of fuelling the stove.
The canister is easily attached to the stove, and with a press of a button, you have ignition.
They can be used to boil water to make hot drinks or cook food easily, and can be stored along with the propane canister without worrying about storing it in low temperatures, as propane can be stored at low temps without any issues.
Be careful not to let the canister sit in direct sunlight however as they can overheat and can potentially cause an explosion.
Butane
Butane is a lesser found fuel source for camp stoves, but can still be used, providing it’s not too cold.
If you’re cooking in a sub-freezing climate, you would be better off using a propane fuelled stove as butane is more efficient in warmer climes.
Another potential issue with butane is the potential to emit carbon monoxide, which is a deadly gas.
Always ensure that the stove is used in a well ventilated area to prevent inhalation of carbon monoxide.
It’s also worth keeping a carbon monoxide detector on hand, just in case. Many newer stoves will have one built in, along with a shut-off mechanism, but older models may not, so prepare for all eventualities.
Alcohol
Alcohol fuelled stoves are less popular than the above types, but are available on the market.
They are among the most clean burning options available, but the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning remains, so keep that detector handy, and again, ensure good ventilation wherever the stove is used.
Check out this article for a more in-depth look at the best fuel type for a camp stove.
Camping Stove Safety Tips
As handy as they may be, a camping stove does require some forethought when it comes to safety. Make sure to keep the below tips in mind on your next trip:
- Ensure the area is well ventilated at all times
- Make sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions prior to use
- Make sure to use a good carbon monoxide detector if the stove is used indoors
- Always ensure that the stove is monitored when in use – never leave it unattended
- Make sure that any combustible or flammable materials are removed from the immediate area before using the stove
- Allow the stove to cool down before stowing it away
- Keep children away from the stove when in use
- Ensure the valve is closed before returning the stove to storage
Can You Use A Jetboil Indoors?
Using a Jetboil indoors does require a level of responsibility. The main issue is the potential for carbon monoxide poisoning from using the stove in a poorly ventilated area.
As long as sufficient ventilation is introduced to the area where the stove is to be used, you shouldn’t have a problem using the stove.
Camper vans or RVs often have a stove inbuilt, albeit with a dedicated extractor to prevent any carbon monoxide build up.
In addition, RV owners will keep the doors and roof hatches open to further aid ventilation. Again, a good carbon monoxide detector is a must, and can quite literally be a life saver.
The bonus of the standalone camp stove is that they can be taken outdoors and transported pretty much anywhere, whereas the RV’s stove is limited to use within the vehicle.
Can You Use A Camp Stove In A Tent?
In such a small atmosphere as a tent, use of a camp stove is not advisable.
Even by opening the tent door for ventilation, the close proximity of flammable materials – whether the tent itself, clothing, sleeping bags or other items – all pose a potential fire hazard, not to mention the fact that the cooking smell will taint the tent.
Stick to using the stove outdoors where possible.
If you do decide to use a stove – such as a Jetboil – in the tent, consider hanging it from the tent roof rather than on the uneven ground where it may fall over.
Take a ski strap and a length of cord. Tie the strap around the Jetboil and run the cord from the strap through a carabiner attached to a tent pole in the doorway to the tent.
This method is only really suitable for Jetboil style stoves as other types don’t attach to the pot. It’s also useful when there is snow on the ground as the cold temperatures make for inefficient fuel economy.
Don’t fill the pot too high when hanging the stove up. Bear in mind that when it comes to boil, the water level will rise by around 3-4 inches, and you don’t want boiling water cascading down into the tent.
Check out our other articles for advice on the use of other items in a tent, such as catalytic heaters.
Can You Get Carbon Monoxide Poisoning from a Propane Stove?
Yes, without proper ventilation, use of a propane stove can result in carbon monoxide poisoning. Always make sure to open doors and windows to allow for proper airflow if using the stove indoors.
Again, use of a carbon monoxide detector is essential to alert you of any carbon monoxide build up in the space.
Can You Use A Camp Stove In A Car or Van?
When out camping, you may want to use a camp stove in the car to be protected from the elements. Whilst not ideal, this is possible if you take the necessary precautions as described above.
Open the windows and/or doors to provide adequate ventilation. Without this the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning is high, not to mention the fact that condensation will invite mould and foul odours.
Make sure to keep your CO sensor in operation as carbon monoxide can build up quickly, especially in such a small space.
Make sure the stove is on a flat, stable surface to avoid any spillages. Be careful with an open flame inside a vehicle.
If you’re using the stove in a larger vehicle such as a van, consider fitting a bracket to support the stove and keep it stable. Roof or side vents can also be fitted with louvres to assist airflow.
Final Thoughts
When using a camp stove, be it a Jetboil, Coleman, or any other type, safety is paramount.
Using your common sense and taking the necessary precautions to avoid carbon monoxide build up, spillages of boiling water, or contact between flammable materials and the stove’s open flame are all key elements to remaining safe when using the stove on your next camping trip.
Be sensible, follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and be safe and there’s no reason why you can’t enjoy a wonderful cooked meal from the comfort of your tent or RV.