BoB's Sterno fuel

[kyrsyan]

I've been redoing the emergency bags and decided to add a 6 hour Sterno fuel can to each. But they stink which means fumes are getting out. And I don't want everything in the bags to stink of it.
Any suggestions? Would mylar or ziplock help? Double layers? Or do I just need to plant these in the bag with the butane canisters and hope we can grab them if needed. (Not the preferred option.) I definitely can't leave them in the van.

 

[mecoastie]

Why Sterno? They will leak. What about something like trioxane or the little Esbit stoves? They will heat enough water for coffee etc.

 

[kyrsyan]

Why Sterno? They will leak. What about something like trioxane or the little Esbit stoves? They will heat enough water for coffee etc.

These are the bigger camp ones. And because they are a little self sealed unit that doesn't require a special type of stove to use them. And because I believe in 3s. So the tools for a wood fire, and then a butane stove, and lastly the Sterno can.

If I can ever get back to camping or hiking more, I might consider a small canister and stove but that's too much when I'm packing 3 bags and trying to keep each stocked enough that the essentials are well covered.

 

[ComCamGuy]

Small alcohol stove and a plastic pint bottle of everclear, more packable and multi purpose

 

[hiwall]

The cans shouldn't leak and smell. I've had some in storage for many years that never smelled and though I haven't opened them, by weight I know they are still viable.
If they smell they are leaking and will not last long.

 

[kyrsyan]

Found a solution. Use a layer of melted paraffin wax around the cap to keep it sealed until you open it for use.

 

[phloydius]

Found a solution. Use a layer of melted paraffin wax around the cap to keep it sealed until you open it for use.

If you are going to put the Sterno in your bag (which is something I would not do personally), after you seal it with wax, consider vacuum sealing it into a heavy duty bag.

 

[kyrsyan]

If you are going to put the Sterno in your bag (which is something I would not do personally), after you seal it with wax, consider vacuum sealing it into a heavy duty bag.

Already planned. I don't want it melting all over things in the bag. Or possibly scenting things. The can will get a spot at the bottom to insure that it is upright during storage. But that means that things on top of it need to be protected, just in case.
Thank you.

 

[Illini Warrior]

I don't intend to use sterno in trying to cook - have better BOB methods to start a fire - carrying & storing sterno has it's negatives >> but it's still a useful tool to have around the place - I transfer all the sterno I run across cheap into a better container - double boiler the little cans to liquify and just pour - CAREFUL the stuff lites toooo damn eazy ...

if you're really into the sterno - but the $$$$ is pricey on the budget - you can go the DIY route if you have the passion >>

View: https://youtu.be/QHL6ZfNqZXE?list=RDCMUCEL67Ygu8azr7jlAQdcm8dA

SUPPLEMENT Q & A to the above >>>

View: https://youtu.be/saeQ-W_p7M8


Answers more Qs >>>>

View: https://youtu.be/QNywkptCd-Q?list=RDCMUCEL67Ygu8azr7jlAQdcm8dA

How to carry & store it >>>>

View: https://youtu.be/iSQF77yHqj4?list=RDCMUCEL67Ygu8azr7jlAQdcm8dA

 

[kyrsyan]

Sterno is one of three sources for cooking. Right now it's what is in our budget.
The videos look interesting. Thank you.

 

[WanderLore]

What I use on the trail for quick-ness:
Toilet paper and hand sanitizer. Can use this in small tin can or small campfire area.