Hi. I haven't carried a stove before, and I'm trying to put together a cook set.

I saw someone here mention they carry a plumber's mat. This seems to be a flame-******ant pad, that I assume stops the stove from scorching picnic tables, etc. It seems like a good idea, but is it necessary to carry a base like this?

I was looking at a cheap enamel mug at the weekend (one of those white ones with the blue flecks). Can you just heat those directly over a flame without destroying them? I don't much care if it gets a bit sooty underneath.

Thanks,
James