Best Fire Starters for Backpacking of 2025

Arlen Smith Avatar
Arlen Smith
Last Updated: Jan 6, 2025

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Fire starters for backpacking are essential for any outdoor enthusiast. They come in various forms, such as waterproof matches, lighters, and ferrocerium rods. These tools are designed to help people start a fire quickly and efficiently, even in adverse weather conditions. The compact size of these fire starters makes them easy to carry in a backpack or pocket, making them an ideal companion for any outdoor adventure. Whether you are camping, hiking, or just enjoying the great outdoors, fire starters for backpacking are a must-have item to ensure your safety and comfort.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

GOFIRE: Ultimate All Purpose Fire Starter Cover #TOP 1
GOFIRE: Ultimate All Purpose Fire Starter
ftb score rating icon 9.9
UST Sparkie Firestarter with Built-In Carbide Striker Cover #TOP 2
UST Sparkie Firestarter with Built-In Carbide Striker
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Überleben FIREKIT Survival Fire Starter Kit Cover #TOP 3
Überleben FIREKIT Survival Fire Starter Kit
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 9 Fire Starters for Backpacking

GOFIRE: Ultimate All Purpose Fire Starter

Fire Starter Parent
100 Pieces
100 Pieces
GOFIRE: Ultimate All Purpose Fire Starter Cover
GOFIRE: Ultimate All Purpose Fire Starter- Non-Toxic, Earth-Friendly, Portable, Weather-Proof Fire Starter for Camping, Hiking, Backpacking, Fireplaces, Wood Stoves and More! 100 Fire Starters

GOFIRE is a non-toxic, eco-friendly, and weather-proof fire starter that can ignite a high flame up to 10 minutes long, making it ideal for camping, hiking, fireplaces, wood stoves, and more. Its proprietary formula can sustain an intense flame that can even light on water. It's easy to use, simply light the corner of the pouch and place it on charcoal or wood. It is non-toxic, food-safe, and safe to use indoors. With a shelf life of 30 years, it is a safer and earth-friendly alternative to petrol-based lighter fluids and fire starters.

What We Like
Non-toxic, eco-friendly, and safe to use indoors and outdoors
Can sustain an intense flame up to 10 minutes long
Easy to use and can even light on water

UST Sparkie Firestarter with Built-In Carbide Striker

ust
20-902-0003-001
Multi
UST Sparkie Firestarter with Built-In Carbide Striker Cover
UST Sparkie Firestarter with Built-In Carbide Striker and Spring Loaded Flint Based Bar Great for Backpacking, Hunting, Camping, Emergencies and Outdoor Survival

The UST Sparkie Firestarter is a reliable and convenient tool for starting fires in outdoor activities. It generates sparks three times hotter than a normal match, and the spring-loaded flint based bar can last over 100 strikes. The lightweight and one-handed design makes it easy to use, and the flint rod can be collapsed into the case for convenient storage. This firestarter is ideal for backpacking, camping, hunting, survival, and emergencies, as it can ignite a wide range of tinders and can generate sparks in adverse weather conditions.

What We Like
Durable plastic material withstands rugged use
Lightweight and designed for one-handed use
Generates sparks three times hotter than a normal match

Überleben FIREKIT Survival Fire Starter Kit

Small
Überleben FIREKIT Survival Fire Starter Kit Cover
Überleben FIREKIT Survival Fire Starter Kit - All-in-One Fire Starting Kit w/Ferro Rod, Striker, Tinder Wick & Bellow, & Dry Kindling for Camping

The Überleben FIREKIT is a complete fire-starting solution designed for outdoor enthusiasts. It includes a unique hexagonal ferro rod that generates intense sparks, ensuring you can ignite a fire even in challenging weather. The ergonomic AmbiStriker makes it easy for anyone to use effectively. Additionally, the kit features a special wick infused with paraffin wax, offering a reliable burn time of up to an hour. You'll also appreciate the ultra-dry birch kindling, which assembles quickly and promotes efficient combustion. All these components are conveniently stored in a compact tin, making it perfect for camping or backpacking adventures.

What We Like
All-in-one fire starting kit
Weatherproof components
Easy to use
Quick assembly
Compact storage
#TOP 4

S.O.L. Tinder-Quik Fire Starter

S.O.L. Tinder-Quik Fire Starter Cover
Survive Outdoors Longer Tinder-Quik Fire Starter, 12 ct (Pack of 4)

The S.O.L. Tinder-Quik Fire Starter is a must-have for any outdoor enthusiast. With each tinder piece burning for up to 3 minutes, this pack of 4 provides enough tinder to start multiple campfires. Whether you're backpacking, hiking, hunting, or camping, the small and lightweight pack is perfect for all your outdoor adventures. The Tinder-Quik easily ignites, making fire building a breeze. It can be used alone, to refill S.O.L. fire starter kits, or as an addition to your survival gear. With its long burn time and versatility, the S.O.L. Fire Starter is an essential tool for any survival or camping experience.

What We Like
Long burn time
Compact and lightweight
Versatile for different outdoor activities
#TOP 5

ust WetFire Tinder Cubes

ust
Black
12-Pack
ust WetFire Tinder Cubes Cover
ust WetFire Tinder with Lightweight, Compact Design, Individual Packaging and 5 Year Shelf Life for Hiking, Backpacking, Camping and Outdoor Survival

The ust WetFire Tinder offers a compact and versatile fire-starting solution for outdoor enthusiasts. Each cube is lightweight and can be easily broken into smaller pieces, allowing you to adapt to various situations. No need to worry about wind or rain; these tinders are designed to ignite reliably even in tough weather conditions. Plus, their individual packaging ensures freshness and a remarkable five-year shelf life, making them a smart addition to your camping gear. With a burn time of up to five minutes per cube, you’ll have plenty of time to get your fire going when it matters most.

What We Like
Compact and lightweight
Reliable in adverse weather
Long shelf life
Adaptable for multiple uses
#TOP 6

duraflame Firestart CUBES Firelighters, 18 pack

DURAFLAME - 00845 - 18/PACK #2
Limited Edition
duraflame Firestart CUBES Firelighters, 18 pack Cover
duraflame Firestart CUBES Firelighters, 18 pack

Introducing the Duraflame Firestart CUBES Firelighters, the perfect solution for starting charcoal or wood fires effortlessly. With their instant lighting feature, all you need to do is light the wrapper and let the firelighters work their magic. Each firelighter burns up to 10 minutes, producing tall flames that ensure a quick and efficient fire start. Whether you're camping, hunting, or simply enjoying a beach fire, these firelighters are a must-have. They are also great for fire pits, grills, smokers, charcoal chimneys, and kamado grills. Made from safe and odorless kerosene, these firelighters are designed with special lignite spots for a hotter and more consistent burn. Experience the convenience and reliability of the Duraflame Firestart CUBES and enjoy hassle-free fire starting every time.

What We Like
Extra fire power
Instant lighting
Burns up to 10 minutes
#TOP 7

Flamers Natural Eco Fire Starter 24 Pack

Flamers
FLA-024-001-AMZ
Natural
24 pcs
Flamers Natural Eco Fire Starter 24 Pack Cover
Flamers Natural Eco Fire Starter - 24 Firestarters for Charcoal Logs Firewood Kindling Stick Briquette - Fire Lighter for BBQ Coal Grill Pizza Oven Solo Stove Fire Pit Chiminea Fireplace Campfire

The Flamers Fire Starter offers an effortless way to ignite your charcoal and firewood. With its natural wood wool and paraffin wax, you can enjoy instant ignition without the need for hazardous liquids. These starters provide a long-lasting flame, making it easy for you to light larger logs, even in wet conditions. You’ll appreciate the clean, odorless burn that leaves no residue, ensuring a pleasant experience while cooking or warming up. Plus, their compact design makes them perfect for camping or emergency kits, ensuring you are always ready to start a fire.

What We Like
Instant ignition
Long-lasting flame
Odorless and non-toxic
Compact for portability
#TOP 8

Branded Boards Waxed Jute Rope 6-Pack

BBFSR06
Branded Boards Waxed Jute Rope 6-Pack Cover
Branded Boards Bushcraft Survival Waxed Jute Rope Fire Tinder 6-Pack. (Waxed Jute Rope Fire Starter 6-Pack)

The Branded Boards Rope Fire Starter is an essential tool for anyone who enjoys outdoor activities. This 6-pack includes waterproof waxed jute ropes that ignite easily, allowing you to start a fire in any weather, whether it's raining, snowing, or windy. Each piece burns steadily and intensely, similar to a candle, ensuring your fire lasts longer. Having multiple pieces on hand means you're prepared for any situation, so you won’t run out when you need it most. It's a perfect addition to your camping, backpacking, or emergency survival kit.

What We Like
Waterproof and weather-resistant
Long-lasting and hot burn
Convenient 6-pack supply
Ideal for various outdoor activities

aZengear Camping Flint and Steel Starter

AZ23
Black and Orange
10x100mm (0.4x4in)
aZengear Camping Flint and Steel Starter Cover
Camping Flint and Steel Fire Starter, 0.4x4in (10x100mm) Ferro Rod, HSS Striker, Paracord, Waterproof Outdoor Survival Kit aZengear

The aZengear Fire Starter is an essential tool for outdoor enthusiasts. Its weatherproof design ensures you can easily ignite a fire in any condition, whether it's rain or shine. The XXL ferro rod is powerful, capable of producing thousands of hot sparks, making it perfect for campfires or emergencies. The ergonomic striker offers a comfortable grip, allowing you to start a fire effortlessly, even in extreme weather. Plus, the fluorescent paracord not only keeps everything together but also makes it easy to find in the dark, adding to your safety while camping.

What We Like
Weatherproof design
Powerful XXL ferro rod
Comfortable ergonomic grip
Fluorescent paracord for visibility
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are magnesium fire starters waterproof?

The Waterproof Magnesium Flint Fire Starter is great for camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities. It should easily be one of your top essentials to have in your survival kit. WATERPROOF AND OIL RESISTANT -Not only does this product allow you to start fires effortlessly.

2. Do firestarters work?

They work the same way, except you use a steel (or knife) to scrape off tiny flakes of magnesium that heat up to create sparks. Magnesium burns hotter and longer than steel, making fire lighting easier.

Editor's Notes

During our fire starter for backpacking research, we found 24 fire starter for backpacking products and shortlisted 9 quality products. We collected and analyzed 41,326 customer reviews through our big data system to write the fire starters for backpacking list. We found that most customers choose fire starters for backpacking with an average price of $13.99.

The fire starters for backpacking are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of fire starters for backpacking, including GOFIRE, ust, S.O.L. Survive Outdoors Longer, Duraflame, Flamers. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 108 consumers with an average rating of 4.5.

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.