Best Camping Emergency Fire Starters of 2025

Arlen Smith Avatar
Arlen Smith
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

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Camping emergency fire starters are an essential tool for any outdoor enthusiast. These compact devices are designed to help start a fire quickly and efficiently, even in wet or windy conditions. They come in a variety of styles, including waterproof matches, fire starter sticks, and even small fire starting kits. These products are perfect for camping trips, hiking adventures, or any other outdoor activity where a reliable fire is necessary. With their ease of use and reliable performance, camping emergency fire starters are a must-have for any outdoor adventurer.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

bayite 4 Inch Survival Ferrocerium Fire Starter Cover #TOP 1
bayite 4 Inch Survival Ferrocerium Fire Starter
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Dextreme Fire Plugs Cover #TOP 2
Dextreme Fire Plugs
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Fire Starter Survival Tool - All-in-One Flint and Steel Fire Starter Kit Cover #TOP 3
Fire Starter Survival Tool - All-in-One Flint and Steel Fire Starter Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Camping Emergency Fire Starters

bayite 4 Inch Survival Ferrocerium Fire Starter

black
bayite 4 Inch Survival Ferrocerium Fire Starter Cover
bayite 4 Inch Survival Ferrocerium Drilled Flint Fire Starter, Ferro Rod Kit with Paracord Landyard Handle and Striker, 4"(Long) x 3/8"(Diameter)

The bayite 4 Inch Survival Ferrocerium Fire Starter is a great tool for starting fires in any weather condition. It comes with a 5ft paracord for a good grip and a bayite Striker-Pro striker attached to the paracord. The ferrocerium rod is 4 inches long and 3/8 inches in diameter, and produces sparks at 5,500 F (3,000 C). Customers have praised its effectiveness and ease of use, though some have noted that it may not work as well with certain types of tinder.

What We Like
Impressive spark generation
Compact and portable size
Effective even when wet
Durable and long-lasting
Good value for money
What We Don't Like
Striker may feel less ergonomic
Shipping can be slow
#TOP 2

Dextreme Fire Plugs

DEX-FP-50
Orange/Red
50 Fire Plugs
Dextreme Fire Plugs Cover
Dextreme Fire Plugs (50) Waterproof Fire Starter for Campfires, Emergencies, Survival, Fire Pits, Grills | 5+ Minute Burn | All Natural | Made in North America

Dextreme Fire Plugs are the perfect companion for camping, emergencies, and survival situations. Each pouch contains 50 odorless and non-toxic plugs that burn for over 5 minutes, providing a reliable source of fire. These waterproof and windproof fire starters can withstand extreme conditions, making them ideal for backpackers, campers, and hikers. They are easy to start by simply bending and breaking the plug in half, then lighting the exposed end with a ferro rod. Made with non-toxic and food-grade ingredients, they can be safely used in grills or wood stoves. With a shelf-life of over 30 years, these fire plugs will always be ready to help you build a warm and strong fire. Dextreme Fire Plugs are proudly made in North America, using locally sourced materials and tested in extreme conditions.

What We Like
Effective fire starting
Compact and lightweight
No chemical smell
Long burn time
Waterproof and durable
What We Don't Like
May require extra lighting effort
Initial exposure affects longevity
#TOP 3

Fire Starter Survival Tool - All-in-One Flint and Steel Fire Starter Kit

P4XFS5005
4 Inch
4 Inch
Fire Starter Survival Tool - All-in-One Flint and Steel Fire Starter Kit Cover
Fire Starter Survival Tool - All-in-One Patented Flint and Steel Fire Starter Kit - Ferro Rod Fire Starter with 36" Waterproof Tinder Wick Rope and Steel Fire Striker | Prepared4X

The Fire Starter Survival Tool from PREPARED4X is the ultimate fire-starting tool for any outdoor enthusiast. This all-in-one kit includes a ferro rod fire starter, a steel fire striker, and a 36" waterproof tinder wick rope, making it easy to start a fire in any weather condition. The patented Survival Torch produces a shower of sparks that are guided directly to the wick, ensuring that your fire ignites quickly and easily. With 3+ hours of continuous burn time or thousands of single-strike uses, this fire starter tool is highly effective even if it's been soaking in water. Perfect for camping, hiking, survival, and bushcraft, this fire starter tool is a must-have for anyone who loves the great outdoors.

What We Like
Compact and portable design
Easy to use
Reliable under various conditions
Durable construction
Great value for the price
What We Don't Like
Ferrocerium rod wears down over time
Rope replacement needed eventually

Swiss Safe 5-in-1 Fire Starter

SWI-FGS-A034-01-AJ1US
Orange
Swiss Safe 5-in-1 Fire Starter Cover
Swiss Safe 5-in-1 Magnesium Ferro Rod Fire Starter Survival Tool - Flint & Steel Striker, Compass, Paracord & Whistle - Emergency Kit for Backpacking, Camping, Hiking - All-Weather - Orange, 1-Pack

The Swiss Safe Fire Starter is an essential tool for any outdoor enthusiast. With its advanced magnesium ferro rod, you can create a fire with over 16,000 strikes, even in harsh weather conditions. This means you can rely on it to keep warm, cook meals, or signal for help when needed. It also features a built-in compass for navigation, a loud whistle for emergencies, and a durable steel scraper. Weighing less than 2 ounces and measuring just 5 inches, it’s designed for portability, ensuring you can carry it anywhere with ease.

What We Like
Reliable fire-starting capability
Includes emergency signaling tools
Lightweight and portable
Durable and long-lasting materials
#TOP 5

Black Beard Fire Plugs (50 Pack)

Black Beard Fire Plugs (50 Pack) Cover
Black Beard Fire Plugs (50 Plugs) | 100% Weatherproof Fire Starter for Campfires | Can Light 50+ Fires | Extra Long Burn Time | 30 Yr Shelf Life for Emergency Survival Kits | Made in USA, Yellow

The Black Beard Fire Plugs are perfect for anyone who loves the outdoors. With quick and reliable ignition, you can easily start a fire, even in wet weather. These plugs are both waterproof and windproof, ensuring that you can rely on them in any situation. Each plug offers an extended burn time, giving you plenty of time to light your campfire or grill. Plus, their compact and lightweight design makes them easy to carry on hikes or camping trips, so you’ll always be prepared for a cozy fire under the stars.

What We Like
Easy to ignite
Good burn time
Lightweight and portable
Effective for fire starting
Compact packaging
What We Don't Like
May require some preparation to light
Wax coating can be thick

bayite Survival Fire Starter Ferrocerium Rod Kit

1A303
black
bayite Survival Fire Starter Ferrocerium Rod Kit Cover
bayite 1/2 x 6 Inch Survival Drilled Flint Steel Fire Starter Ferrocerium Rod Kit with Striker-Pro Striker Paracord Landyard Handle Large

The bayite Survival Fire Starter Ferrocerium Rod Kit includes a 6-inch long and 1/2-inch diameter drilled Flint Steel Fire Starter Ferrocerium Rod with a 9ft Paracord Landyard Handle. It comes with a new Striker-Pro striker made from TOOL GRADE HSS STEEL, which has a distinct hardness and provides up to 3000 degrees C spark in any weather. The kit is windproof, weather-resistant, and durable, lasting for approximately 12,000 strikes. You can use the back of a blade from a box cutter as a scraper for efficient sparks. This emergency fire starter is perfect for camping, hiking, hunting, fishing, BBQ, and more.

What We Like
Generates lots of sparks
Durable and robust design
Easy to use
Great value for price
Ideal for emergency situations
What We Don't Like
Import time from China
Striker could be larger
#TOP 7

Epiphany Outdoor Gear Pocket Bellows

Epiphany Outdoor Gear Pocket Bellows Cover
Epiphany Outdoor Gear Pocket Bellows - Weatherproof Collapsible Fire Bellowing Tool for Starting Fire- An Essential Camping Gear

The Pocket Bellows is a lightweight, collapsible, and award-winning fire bellowing tool made of stainless steel that compresses and focuses oxygen directly into the heart of a fire. It is a weatherproof fire starting tool that turns wet or dry firewood into a rolling fire in moments. The tool is extendable to keep your face, beard, and eyebrows away from the fire when adding oxygen, and it fits perfectly into a survival kit or bug-out bag. This versatile tool is the best fire starting solution for survivalists, casual campers, and backyard fire-pit owners alike. Epiphany Outdoor Gear is a veteran-owned small American business that produces quality gear that changes the way to start a fire.

What We Like
Lightweight and compact
Effective fire starting tool
Convenient for backpacking
Quality construction
Easy to use
What We Don't Like
Not a necessity
A bit pricey
#TOP 8

Procamptek Fast Fire Stick

PRO-FSS
Red/Orange
1 Fast Fire Stick
Procamptek Fast Fire Stick Cover
Procamptek Fast Fire Stick - Survival Fire Starting Tinder, New Fat Rope Stick Version, Best Firestarter for Emergency, Survival, Campfire, Bushcraft, and Hiking - Waterproof & Non-Toxic (1 Stick)

The Procamptek Fire Stick is an upgraded fire starter that offers quick ignition with minimal effort. You can easily light it using various tools like ferro rods or even an empty lighter. Its waterproof and windproof design makes it reliable in any weather, ensuring you stay warm during emergencies or outdoor adventures. Additionally, each stick is designed for longevity, capable of igniting over 50 fires while maintaining an infinite shelf life. This makes it an essential addition to your camping gear or emergency kit, providing peace of mind while you enjoy the great outdoors.

What We Like
Impressive burn time
High heat output
Easy to light
Compact and sturdy design
What We Don't Like
Tough to cut
Expensive for quantity
#TOP 9

AOFAR Magnesium Fire Starter AF-374 (2-Pack)

FS-AF374
Silvery
AOFAR Magnesium Fire Starter AF-374 (2-Pack) Cover
AOFAR Magnesium Fire Starter AF-374 (2-Pack) Waterproof Fire Steel Pouch for Camping, Hiking, Hunting, Backpacking,Outdoor Survival fire Striker kit

The AOFAR Magnesium Fire Starter AF-374 (2-Pack) is a waterproof fire steel pouch designed for camping, hiking, hunting, backpacking, and outdoor survival. It includes two magnesium fire starters, a steel scraper, and a fire paracord outdoor survival rope. Customers have found it easy to use and a great value for anyone interested in survival gear or camping. It is compact, lightweight, and can be used in any weather condition.

What We Like
Great value for the price
Compact and portable
Easy to use
Includes flammable paracord
Clear instructions provided
What We Don't Like
Scraper color may vary
#TOP 10

Fireflame Fire Plugs by kiknek

Orange
50 Pack
Fireflame Fire Plugs by kiknek Cover
Fireflame Fire Plugs Fire Starter - Quick Instant 100% Waterproof Firestarter for Emergencies, Survival, Campfires, Fire Pits, Charcoal Grill - All Natural, Odorless & Non-Toxic - 50 Plugs in Bag

The Fireflame Fire Plugs by kiknek are the ultimate fire starter for your outdoor adventures. Made from high-quality cotton and infused with premium paraffin wax, these plugs ignite quickly with just a spark, making them perfect for camping and survival situations. They are 100% waterproof, so even in rain or snow, you can rely on them to start a fire. Plus, the all-natural, non-toxic formula ensures there are no unpleasant odors or harmful chemicals. With a burn time of over five minutes, you’ll have plenty of time to get your campfire or grill going with ease.

What We Like
Excellent for windy conditions
Burns quickly and intensely
Compact and portable for camping
Great addition to emergency kit
What We Don't Like
Price could be better
Buying Guide Image

Camping Emergency Fire Starters Buying Guide: What You Need to Know

Introduction

When it comes to camping, being prepared for any emergency situation is crucial. One important tool to have on hand is a reliable emergency fire starter. In this article, we will discuss the various factors to consider when choosing the best fire starter for your camping needs.

Types of Fire Starters

There are several different types of fire starters available, each with their own unique benefits and drawbacks. Some common types of fire starters include matches, magnesium fire starters, and ferrocerium fire starters.

Matches are a simple and inexpensive option for starting fires. However, they can be easily damaged by water and may not be as reliable as other types of fire starters in wet conditions.

Magnesium fire starters use a small block of magnesium alloy that can be shaved off and ignited with a spark. These fire starters are relatively easy to use and can be a reliable option in wet conditions. However, they can be somewhat expensive and may not be as durable as other types of fire starters.

Ferrocerium fire starters, also known as ferro rods or flint and steel, use a small piece of ferrocerium alloy that can be struck with a hard, sharp object to create a shower of sparks. These fire starters are extremely durable and can be a reliable option in almost any conditions, but they can be somewhat difficult to use and may require some practice to master.

Factors to Consider

When choosing a fire starter, there are several factors to consider. The most important factor is the reliability of the fire starter. You want to choose a fire starter that is reliable in a variety of conditions, including wet or windy weather.

Another important factor to consider is the ease of use. If you are camping with young children or inexperienced campers, you may want to choose a fire starter that is easy to use and does not require a lot of practice to master.

Another factor to consider is the durability of the fire starter. You want to choose a fire starter that is rugged and can withstand the rigors of outdoor use.

Finally, you will want to consider the price of the fire starter. While it is important to have a reliable fire starter, you do not want to break the bank in the process. Look for a fire starter that provides a good value for the price.

Conclusion

Choosing the right fire starter for your camping needs can be a challenging task. However, by considering the various types of fire starters and the factors discussed in this article, you can make an informed decision and choose a fire starter that will provide you with reliable fire-starting capabilities in any emergency situation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What else can you use as a fire starter?

There are several alternatives to using camping emergency fire starters. Some options include self-igniting fire starters, cotton string/pad soaked in wax, dryer lint, egg carton & wax, cotton balls in Vaseline/petroleum jelly, sawdust or shredded paper cupcakes, pinecone fire starters, corks soaked in rubbing alcohol, and dried orange peel.

2. Are coffee grounds a good fire starter?

Coffee grounds can be an effective fire starter. They have a higher combustion power than wood, making them efficient for lighting wood firelogs or charcoal. Some products specifically designed for starting fires use coffee grounds and can help start multiple fires in fireplaces, stoves, or barbecue grills.

3. How do you make homemade fire starter?

One way to make a homemade fire starter is by using lint or a cotton ball soaked in Vaseline. Rub Vaseline onto the cotton ball or lint, wrap it in a waterproof bag, and it's ready to be lit. This DIY fire starter is easy and effective for starting fires.

4. How do you make homemade camp fire starter?

A classic homemade camp fire starter can be made using dryer lint and egg cartons. Place a wad of dryer lint in each empty compartment of a cardboard egg carton. Then, pour melted wax or paraffin wax over the lint, allowing it to seep into the materials. Once cooled, these fire starters can be used to ignite your campfire.

5. How do you make homemade fire starters for camping?

To make homemade fire starters for camping, start with a clean and dry paper egg carton. In each compartment, pack small piles of dryer lint, paper shred, and sawdust. Slowly pour melted paraffin wax over each pile, allowing it to seep into the dry materials. Once the wax has hardened, these fire starters are ready to be used when camping.

Editor's Notes

During our camping emergency fire starter research, we found 24 camping emergency fire starter products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 112,847 customer reviews through our big data system to write the camping emergency fire starters list. We found that most customers choose camping emergency fire starters with an average price of $17.07.

The camping emergency fire starters are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of camping emergency fire starters, including bayite, Dextreme, PREPARED4X, Swiss Safe, Black Beard Fire Starter. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 929 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Arlen Smith Avatar

Arlen Smith is a writer and a surfer who lives in Los Angeles, he runs a popular blog that focuses on surfing skills and popular surf spots around the world. He enjoys the sun, the beach and the feeling of surfing. His expertise ranges from categories such as climbing, swimming, boating and outdoor sports.

Camping Emergency Fire Starters Comparison Table

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#TOP10
Brand bayite Dextreme PREPARED4X Swiss Safe Black Beard Fire Starter bayite Epiphany Outdoor Gear Procamptek AOFAR kiknek
Material ferrocerium Wax & Cotton Minerals, metal Ferrocerium Wax Ferrocerium - Wax & Cotton Magnesium, Steel Cotton, Wax
Item Weight 2.46 Ounces 0.11 Kilograms 0.19 Kilograms - 4.2 ounces 5.5 Ounces - 2.82 ounces 3.88 ounces 0.25 ounces
Flavor - Flavorless unflavored - Flavorless - - unflavored Natural Wood Natural Wood
Item Form - Pellet Stick - Pellet - - Stick Stick Disc
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.8
ftb score rating icon 8.8
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