The type of gas to use for camping depends mainly on the temperature. Propane can be used all the year round while liquid butane is hard to turn to gas at anything below about 4C. Now that the price of the two gases is very similar there is little advantage to buying butane, though you do get marginally more energy from a butane cylinder than a propane one of the same volume. Many of the smaller cartridges will have a mixture of propane and butane that should be suitable for most activities all year round.
Many small camping cartridges often have a blend of both common gasses so they can offer a wider performance range, sometime augmented with a derivative of butane called isobutane, they'll still give adequate performance when in sub-zero conditions.
Locating LPG cylinders
In recent years it has been difficult to locate suitable cylinders, normally camping and caravan accessory shops and sometimes fuel stations may have suitable stock. Most of the brands have major depots that may hold a stock of cylinders so check their website (listed here in Contacts) for the latest information as they may even deliver to your door. The Camping-Gas website has a up to date directory of retailers for cylinders, use the location supplier or size filters for the best results. Remember to call first to ensure the retailer still provides the required service and avoid a wasted journey.
Touring abroad
Check before you travel for the rules that may apply to carrying gas cylinders, for example on ferries or through the Channel Tunnel. You cannot carry any pressurised gas cartridge or cylinder on an aircraft. LPG supplies in Europe are generally different from UK and you may not be able to exchange your brand of cylinders and as you travel you may notice each country has its own big brands. One of the advantages of Campingaz is its wide availability in Western Europe. The company has a useful website (see contacts) that allows you to locate Campingaz outlets abroad.
Small camping cartridges are readily available throughout mainland Europe, the brand may be different but the contents will all be broadly the same.
Maintenance
All gas appliances need regular checking to ensure they are operating safely. Generally with simple camping gas equipment you need to be sensible about using them.
Make sure all connections are secure and never use an appliance that appears to be leaking. Inspect all hoses regularly for signs of cracking or other deterioration and replace them at least every five years. The date of manufacture should be stamped on the hose. Check the hose clamps are sound.
