A Comprehensive Guide to Induction Cooktops for Camping

Is an Induction Cooktop Right for your next Camping Trip? We take a Deep Dive into the Latest Camping Gear Trend.

Embarking on an outdoor camping trip is one of life's great pleasures. The beauty of getting away from the grind of the city, away from the office, traffic, and into the great outdoors can't be understated. And one of my favourite parts of that experience is camp cooking. While traditional campfire cooking holds a timeless charm, there's a revolutionary culinary solution that is captivating outdoor enthusiasts worldwide: the induction cooktop.

The allure of an induction cooktop lies in its efficiency, convenience, and portability. Gone are the days of struggling to keep the campfire flames steady or relying on finicky gas stoves in windy conditions. With an induction cooktop in your campsite, you can relish the pleasures of convenient gourmet meals, even in the great outdoors.

Whether you're a seasoned camper seeking to elevate your outdoor cooking game or a novice looking for the best camping culinary solution, this article will equip you with all the necessary information. We'll cover the pros and cons of using an induction cooktop for camping, and provide you with a step-by-step setup guide for optimal performance in the great outdoors.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• Pros of Using an Induction Cooktop when Camping
• Efficiency and Speed
• Safety
• Clean and Smoke-Free Cooking
• Temperature Control and Precision
• Portability
• Easy to Clean
• Cons of Using an Induction Cooktop when Camping
• Power Source Dependency
• Cookware Compatibility
• Fragility and Weight
• Setting Up Your Induction Cooktop for Camping
• Powering your Induction Cooktop
• Stabilizing the Cooktop
• Choosing Suitable Cookware
• Temperature and Heat Control
• Conclusion

Pros of Using an Induction Cooktop when Camping

While traditional campfires and portable gas stoves have long been the go-to choices for outdoor cooking, a new contender has emerged, bringing a touch of modernity to the wilderness: the induction cooktop.

If you're on the fence about whether or not going the induction cooktop or stove route for your next camping trip is right for you, the positives are going to be hard to ignore.

The efficiency of induction cooking will appeal to those who like to know where every watt and amp is going, and prefer not waiting for the coals to reach just the right temperature. While the safety aspect speak to those of us with little ones, with little wondering hands. Environmentalists will love the clean positives, while the foodie chefs will appreciate the additional control and precision one has while cooking with an induction cooktop.

Efficiency and Speed

Induction cooktops efficiently direct heat precisely where you need it, eliminating wastage. This exceptional efficiency is particularly beneficial when power is scarce. Compared to gas cooktops, the disparity in efficiency becomes glaringly evident, especially in windy conditions where much of the heat dissipates instead of being effectively utilized for cooking.

This direct heat transfer results in faster cooking times, allowing you to save valuable time and energy. Whether you need to boil water, simmer a stew, or fry up some bacon, an induction cooktop will do the job swiftly and efficiently. Imagine boiling water for your morning coffee or preparing a quick meal in minutes.

This kind of convenience can be a huge help, especially when one has a larger group, or a family with impatient kids.

Safety

Safety is paramount when camping, and induction cooktops excel in this aspect. Unlike traditional stoves, induction cooktops remain cool to the touch during operation. The cookware generates heat directly in the cookware, meaning the induction cooking surface does not become hot. It reduces the risk of accidental burns, especially if you have children or pets.

Additionally, induction cooktops have built-in safety features like automatic shut-off timers, overheat protection, and pan detection, further ensuring a safe cooking experience. If you accidentally leave a pan on top of the element, the cooktop's intelligent technology will automatically cut the power. It does this when it detects an abnormally high temperature for an extended period.

Some models even offer Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to turn off the cooktop remotely for added peace of mind.

Clean and Smoke-Free Cooking

Beyond the immediate safety benefits, induction cooking sidesteps more significant safety concerns that can arise with gas stoves. With induction, you eliminate the risk of exposure to unhealthy levels of carbon monoxide and the potential for gas leaks, explosions, or fires that, albeit rare, could occur with gas-based cooking setups.

As we all know, in Australia fire-bans are a very real possibility. The risk a flame or spark from a BBQ or gas-burner can inadvertently lead to a catastrophic bush fire isn't as slim as it might seem, and so fire-bans are often enforced to avoid any potential danger. This includes a strict ban on traditional camp fires, but also any kind of outdoor gas cooker. Failure to comply can lead to massive fines, and even jail time. 

Obviously this can be a significant problem, as you run the risk of eating cold food, and having to listen to your friends/wife/children moan endlessly. Thanks to induction cooktops, this is a worry you won't have. Induction stoves are safe to use during fire bans, as they don't generate any form of spark or flame.

Moreover, induction cooktops require minimal ventilation, setting them apart from gas cooktops that release methane, benzene, nitrogen dioxides, and other chemical emissions during operation. Additionally, they don't produce volatile organic compounds (VOCs) when switched on, making them an eco-friendly and health-conscious choice. This is especially valuable in fire-free zones or indoor areas where maintaining a clean and smoke-free environment is essential. 

Temperature Control and Precision 

Temperature control is crucial when cooking, especially in outdoor environments with unpredictable weather. Unlike traditional gas cookers, windy conditions do not affect these cooktops, ensuring consistent heat distribution. The time it takes to boil a pot of water is ridiculously quick (especially in comparison with gas). Just these little time-savers can make a huge difference to the overall camping experience.

Whether you're looking to cook-up the next Michelin-Chef style bush cuisine to wow your friends and family, or just fancy yourself a bit of a gourmet foodie and enjoy a little more perfection in your cooking, an induction stove will be a massive help. 

Induction cooktops provide precise temperature control, allowing you to accurately adjust the heat to your desired level. This feature is handy when cooking delicate dishes that require careful heat management. You can achieve consistent and delicious results every time by having better control over the cooking temperature.

Portability

While gas can last you a decent amount of time, carrying around the cannisters is anything but efficient. Space is a resource most campers don't have, and freeing up the space, and weight of a large (or even small) gas cannister can be a huge relief. Even the little gas bottles that plug into the gas stoves can be a pain to pack. 

With an induction cooktop, you can leave your gas canisters and bottles at home. Induction stoves are light and take up minimal space. A single plate cooktop will usually weigh anywhere between 1-2kg at most, while a 2-plate stove will usually come in around 5kg. 

Their physical footprint is also small. Most induction cooktops are thin, with a simple glass panel running along the top and a couple of touch-buttons. There's no knobs or dials that stick out, and no grills, wind breaks or barriers you need to worry about either. The Devanti Induction Cooktop we sell comes in at a thickness of only 6.5cm, where the Euro-Chef model comes in at just 6cm! Compare that with your average gas cooker and you quickly realise just how compact these cooktops are.

Easy to Clean

Cleaning a portable induction cooktop is remarkably easy, particularly when camping. The smooth glass or ceramic surface of these cooktops make them effortless to wipe clean. 

Unlike traditional gas or electric stoves, induction cooktops generate minimal residual heat and have no open flames, reducing the likelihood of food debris getting burnt and stuck. 

Furthermore, the absence of any direct heat transfer to the cooktop itself means that spills and splatters aren't really an issue. With just a damp cloth or sponge and a bit of dish soap, it's a quick wipe you're done.

Cons of Using an Induction Cooktop when Camping

While it might seem like using an induction cooktop while camping is a no-brainer, they do come with a number of drawbacks. Their power requirements can be heavy going, they're generally quite fragile and can be prone to being broken, or at least badly scratched, and they have a compatibility requirement when it comes to cookware that can be used on them.

Like anything though, there are always pros and cons, and it just requires a little bit of research to understand whether or not the negatives outweigh the positives in your particular situation.

Let's dig in.

Power Source Dependency

Unlike traditional gas stoves or open fires, which can operate independently of electricity, induction cooktops rely on an electrical power supply. This reliance on electricity can be a limitation when camping in remote locations that lack access to power grids.

However, it is possible to overcome this challenge with careful planning and consideration. Without a doubt the simplest means of powering your cooktop is with a good old fashioned plug to the grid. If you can find a powered campsite you'll be cooking, boiling and frying like Ramsey. However, if you don't have grid access, here are some alternative power solutions to ensure a continuous power supply for your cooktop, even in remote areas:

Portable Generators: These generators, designed for outdoor use, are compact, lightweight, and capable of generating sufficient power to run your cooktop. They typically run on gasoline, propane, or diesel fuel, and their wattage output determines the number of appliances they can support. When choosing a portable generator, consider its power capacity, noise level, and fuel efficiency to meet your camping needs effectively.

Power Banks: Power banks, portable battery packs, or power stations are another great option to power your induction cooktop while camping. They come in various capacities and sizes, so choosing one that matches your cooktop's power requirements is essential.

Please remember that power banks have limited capacity and require periodic recharging. Therefore, it is crucial to calculate your power requirements and ideally have recharging capability via solar or access to the grid.

Solar Power: Utilising solar goes hand in hand with the above power stations, or at least being able to run your induction cooktop off a large lithium battery. Ideally as the battery that's running your cooktop runs down you'll need to top it up via solar. 

Along with a decent solar panel or two, you'll also need a good inverter, and  a lithium battery that will allow discharge rates of around 2000W (or 160AMP) upwards. 

Induction Cooktop power requirements usually start around the 1250W mark and go up from there. Running a cooktop at full power will of course require a large amount of power, however you can usually get away with running your cooktop at lower temperatures and hence not max out your power source. 

Cookware Compatibility

Unlike traditional gas stoves or open fires, induction cooktops use magnetic fields to generate heat. As a result, not all pots and pans are suitable for use on an induction surface.

To effectively work with an induction cooktop, cookware must have a ferrous metal base, such as stainless steel or cast iron. These types of cookware contain magnetic properties that allow them to interact with the induction cooktop's magnetic field, resulting in heat generation. Aluminium, copper, and glass cookware, among others, are incompatible with induction cooktops.

Campers wishing to use an induction cooktop should invest in induction-ready cookware. While this may require an initial investment, the benefits and versatility of induction cooking make it a worthwhile consideration. You can use them during camping trips and in your home kitchen, providing long-term value.

There are a few ways to tell if cookware is induction compatible. The symbol below is usually visible on the carton, and if you want to check your cookware at home you can use a magnet. If a magnet sticks to the item, it's a sign that it's induction ready. 

Remember too that whatever induction compatible cookware you end up buying will also be useable on non-induction stoves, so it's not as though you can only use your new pots and pans on the induction stove.

When shopping for induction cookware, look for labels or indications explicitly stating compatibility with induction cooktops. Additionally, you can use a magnet to test whether your existing cookware is compatible. If the magnet sticks firmly to the cookware's base, it is induction-compatible.

While the cost of purchasing induction-ready cookware may be a factor, it is important to remember that quality cookware is a long-term investment. Induction-compatible pots and pans are typically constructed with durable materials that distribute heat evenly and offer excellent cooking performance. They can enhance your culinary camping experience and provide years of reliable use.

Fragility and Weight

Induction cooktops are generally more delicate than traditional camping stoves designed to withstand rugged handling. Their sleek and compact designs often feature glass or ceramic surfaces that can be vulnerable to cracks or scratches if not handled carefully. 

To ensure the longevity of your induction cooktop, it's crucial to exercise caution during transportation, storage, and use. Properly secure the cooktop to prevent it from shifting or banging against other objects in the back of your ute or camper. 

Also, avoid storing heavy objects on top of the cooktop, which could damage the surface. Treating your induction cooktop with care can minimize the risk of accidental breakage or damage during your camping adventures.

It's worth noting that the fragility of induction cooktops can vary depending on the quality and build of the specific model. Cheaper models may have less durable materials, making them more susceptible to damage. 

On the other hand, higher-end or commercial-grade induction cooktops often feature sturdier components and more robust construction, enhancing their resistance to rough handling. Investing in a reliable and well-built induction cooktop can provide added peace of mind and reduce the risk of unexpected damage during your camping trips.

The weight of the cooktop can have implications for portability, especially for minimalist campers who prioritise lightweight gear. Portable induction cooktops typically range from 2kg to 5kg, with lighter options commonly found in more affordable models. 

While a heavier cooktop can be seen as a negative, it can also be seen to include more robust internal parts and be a little more hardy against the perils or camping. Something worth considering before you make your investment.

Setting Up Your Induction Cooktop for Camping

There are a number of factors to consider when making sure you have everything needed to get your induction cooktop humming away happily on your next camping trip. From ensuring you have an adequate power supply, to confirming the pots and pans you have are compatible right down to making sure you have a solid table or surface to cook from. These, although obvious, are important. By dismissing them you risk cold meals and a cranky camp site.

Powering your Induction Cooktop

The first step in setting up your induction cooktop for camping is ensuring you have a reliable power source. While some camping sites may have access to electricity, others won’t. Selecting a camping location with electricity is highly recommended to power your induction cooktop. This will provide you with a more convenient and consistent cooking experience.

However, if electricity is unavailable at your chosen camping spot, fear not! There are alternative power options to consider. We've gone through the various power options above, and would recommend any one of those. A solid lithium battery with an inverter is a straight forward option and depending, can be fairly budget friendly. Otherwise a decent sized power station is probably the cleanest method as you can just plug your cooktop directly into it and away you go, pancakes for breakfast here we come! 

As always though, whatever solution you choose, make sure you monitor your battery levels while cooking, just to make sure you don't drain your battery. And if you do, make sure you have a decent solar power setup ready to recharge.

Stabilising the Cooktop

Safety should always be a priority when setting up your induction cooktop for camping. To avoid accidental tipping and potential injuries, placing the cooktop on a stable and flat surface is crucial to avoid accidental tipping and potential injuries. A sturdy camping table or a heat-resistant mat can be excellent options.

If you decide to use a camping table, ensure it is level and can handle the weight of the cooktop. On the other hand, a heat-resistant mat provides an added layer of protection, especially if you plan to cook directly on the ground. A stable cooktop setup ensures you can cook peacefully, even on uneven terrain.

Another factor which is both a positive and negative is the lack of wind barriers with these cooktops. While this means that you can use larger pots and pans with them, it also means those same pots and pans can easily slip off the surface. After all the cooktop is basically just a piece of glass. Even if the surface you're cooking on is only slightly uneven (likely when setting up in the bush), there's a chance your pot could slowly begin to slide. If you're used to using the old-school gas grills you'll quickly notice the difference as this doesn't happen as easily, and it's worth considering up front.

Choosing Suitable Cookware

Induction cooktops require specific cookware compatible with their technology. Before heading out on your camping trip, double-check that your cookware is induction-compatible. Most modern cookware from ferrous materials, such as stainless steel or cast iron, will work efficiently with induction cooktops.

When camping, it's also essential to consider the weight and durability of your cookware. Opt for lightweight options that won't weigh you down during your travels. Additionally, durable, good quality cookware will withstand the rigours of outdoor cooking, ensuring you can enjoy your future travels and favourite meals for years to come.

Temperature and Heat Control

Maintaining decent temperature control is crucial for a successful outdoor cook-up. Unlike traditional gas or electric stoves, induction cooktops heat the cookware directly, offering faster and more efficient temperature adjustments. This rapid response allows you to simmer, sauté, or boil with greater precision, ensuring your meals are cooked perfectly, whether you’re making a quick breakfast or a gourmet dinner under the stars.

One of the key benefits of using an induction cooktop while camping is its ability to maintain consistent heat, even in shifting outdoor conditions. Windy or cooler environments that might challenge other types of stoves will have little affect on a induction cooktop’s performance. This consistency helps prevent burning or undercooking, allowing you to focus on enjoying your time outdoors without the hassle of fluctuating heat levels.

Conclusion

Replacing your trusty old gas cooker for an induction cooktop on your next camping trip is definitely a tempting prospect, but is it right for you? As much as we wish we could give you an outright answer, it is unfortunately a case of personal circumstance and preference. 

While convenient, this technology does come with it's own set of requirements and those requirements can come at a cost. If you don't already have some of the infrastructure in place it can mean a fairly hefty investment for what is probably not going to change anyones life. 

The other consideration is whether using something like an induction cooktop is replacing a little of what makes camping so great. Being forced to wait for the kettle to boil on the gas stove or the fire is part of the charm of camping. Being forced to just wait, relax and take a breath. But again, it's personal preference. Whatever works for you is what counts.

Whichever direction you decide to go, we wish you many happy camping meals, hot drinks and good times while exploring this beautiful country.