These liquid gas fueled cookers with refillable fuel tanks are more difficult to operate than their canister cousins; they also burn hotter and work more efficiently at subzero temperatures. They are also generally heavier, bulkier, and more expensive. The stoves are more complicated and require cleaning, but for heat output, a flame that can endure gusty winds, and all-season use, they are hard to beat.

The DragonFly Multi-fuel
by Mountain Safety Research

It is a good idea to practice breaking down, cleaning, and reassembling your liquid gas stove before you embark on a major trip. Before using the cooker, check the seal of the fuel pump, and check the generator tube and jet for blockages. If you are burning fuels other than white gas, black carbon residue from the burner can build up on the jet and in the fuel line, preventing the stove from working efficiently (or at all). Occasionally unscrew and remove the jet, soak it in white gas, and rub it clean. Do the same with the fuel line. If your stove doesn't have a built-in jet cleaner, use a wire to clean hard to reach parts. To prevent pressure (or fuel) leaks, routinely check the seal on the pump (a rubber O-ring), since they sometimes dry out and crack. You can often restore a dry O-ring to working condition with a dab of oil.

White gas burns better (cleaner) when it is fresh. While old white gas is better than no white gas, stock your tank with fresh fuel before each trip. Also, liquid gas stoves are notorious for boiling when you'd like them to simmer, so learn to be an attentive cook.

Another big plus is that while extra compressed gas canisters may be difficult to find in exotic ports of call, some of these liquid gas stoves burn on a variety of fuels. A few stoves run only on alcohol or solvent, while others work best on plain white gas, such as Coleman gas, naphtha, and Blazo. Several manufacturers produce "international" stoves that will run on most any flammable liquid—diesel, kerosene, jet fuel, white gas, and even straight automobile gasoline. If you are planning on traveling to Third World countries, this is the type of stove to consider; just keep in mind that these dirtier fuels tend to clog stoves faster than white gas, so you'll need to pay closer attention to cleaning and maintenance.

Liquid gas stoves tend to be bigger (and heavier) than those dependent upon a cartridge, so for packing convenience, look for one with a removable fuel tank. Ideally, you'll have a second tank ready to go when the first one is empty; otherwise you need to fumble with a funnel to refill the main tank.

Liquid gas stoves use a variety of fuels. The following are forms of liquid fuel that are used in many modern stoves:

Alcohol. This is a clean and nonvolatile fuel. However, it doesn't burn as efficiently or as hot as other liquid fuel options.

Automobile gas. Obviously, this isn't the type of fuel you'd use for everyday stove use in the United States, but it may be all you can find in Timbuktu or the Australian outback. Expect lots of smoke and soot, as well as noxious fumes. Make sure you cook in a well-ventilated area, since fumes can be deadly. Select the lowest octane level available.

Kerosene. If you are traveling internationally, this may be the fuel for you, since kerosene is generally available in most parts of the world. Be prepared for smoke, fumes, and clogging of fuel lines.

White gas. This inexpensive fuel is widely available in North America. The flame is hot and clean. Standard Coleman fuel is white gas. Of all the liquid gas options, pure white gas is the best choice.