Which Gas Bottle Do I Need for Camping?
- Kelsey W
- Apr 27
- 4 min read
Ahh, camping season is finally coming. I can smell the grass and trees already. The morning coffee, watching the sunrise over dewy grass. I can’t wait.
But how do we get that coffee?
With gas, of course.
Here’s a simple, no-nonsense guide to the different types of camping gas bottles and equipment — and how to choose the right one for your setup without overcomplicating it.
Butane vs Propane for Camping: What’s the Difference?
Before we even get into cookers, it helps to understand the two main types of Calor gas you’ll see when camping: butane and propane.
They both do the same job — they fuel your cooker — but they behave differently depending on how and when you’re camping.
Calor Butane (Blue cylinders)
Butane is a great choice for fair-weather camping.
Best used in warmer temperatures
Ideal for spring and summer trips
Perfect for basic cooking like kettles, frying, and simple meals
Commonly used with smaller camping stoves and freestanding cookers
👉 Think of butane as your “summer camping gas” — simple, efficient, and great when conditions are mild.
Calor Propane (Red cylinders)
Propane is the more versatile option and is built for year-round camping.
Works even in cold temperatures
Ideal for all-weather and winter camping
Suitable for longer trips and heavier use
Commonly used for larger camping setups, caravans, and campervans
👉 Think of propane as your “reliable all-rounder” — whatever the weather throws at you, it keeps going.
Quick way to remember it:
Butane = warmer weather camping
Propane = performs better in colder weather and larger appliances
Butane Options: Calor vs Campingaz (what’s the difference?)
If you’ve decided butane is the right choice for your camping setup, there’s one more thing worth knowing — not all butane systems are the same.
The two most common options you’ll come across are Calor Gas and Campingaz, and while they do the same job, they’re better suited to different types of camping.
Calor Butane (UK-based system)
Calor butane is one of the most widely used camping gas options in the UK.
Easy to find across the UK
Great for regular UK camping trips
Commonly used with freestanding camping stoves
Reliable supply network through UK stockists
👉 If you’re mainly camping in the UK, Calor is usually the simplest and most convenient choice.
Campingaz (ideal for travelling abroad)
Campingaz is especially popular with people who travel across Europe, particularly places like France.
Widely available across Europe
Very easy to exchange or replace abroad
Common in campsites and outdoor shops in EU countries
Designed specifically with travel in mind
👉 If you’re heading on a touring holiday or camping abroad, Campingaz is often the more practical option because you can pick it up easily while you’re away.
What regulator do I have — and what gas fits it?
Once you’ve chosen your gas type, the next step is making sure it actually connects to your cooker properly.
Different gas bottles use different regulators, so it’s important to match the right setup.
Here’s a simple guide:
What this means in simple terms
Most camping stoves and cookers will already come with a regulator attached or specified.
As long as your gas bottle matches that regulator type, you’re good to go.
If it doesn’t match — it won’t connect safely, so it’s always worth double-checking before you buy.
So… what’s next?
Once your gas type and regulator are matched, you’re basically ready to go.
That’s it — no overthinking, no confusion.
Just the important stuff sorted so you can get on with what camping is really about:
Fresh air, good food, and that first proper coffee outside in the morning. 🌿
Not sure what you’ve got?
If you’re unsure, don’t worry — this is very common, especially if you’ve inherited a cooker or haven’t used it for a while.
The easiest thing to do is:
Check the manual for your stove or cooker
Look at the regulator fitting on your current setup
Or bring it into us and we’ll match it for you
We’re always happy to help make sure you get the right bottle the first time.
Need help choosing the right gas bottle?
If you’re still unsure which Calor gas bottle you need, don’t worry — you’re not the only one. It can feel confusing at first, especially with different cookers, regulators, and setups.
The good news? We can help you get it right first time.
Whether you’re planning a weekend camping trip, kitting out a campervan, or just need a quick replacement bottle, our team can point you in the right direction and make sure you’ve got exactly what you need before you set off.
👉 Pop into the office, give us a call, or get in touch online — and we’ll get you sorted.
Because once your gas is sorted, everything else becomes easy… and you’re one step closer to that first coffee outside. ☕🌿
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