A fire is essential for providing heat, cooking, or just creating a good vibe under the stars. If you’re the type of person who prefers to sit beside a campfire and soak in the pleasant atmosphere, you’re left with two choices.
The first choice is to start a fire from scratch. The second is to bring along a sturdy lighter to make sure you and your hiking team stay warm and comfortable around a campfire.
The problem is, when the winds hits starting a campfire can be much more difficult than expected. In order to stay warm, you have to gear yourself up with a waterproof lighter which won’t fail even in wet and windy conditions. In this article, we’ll give you some suggestions for purchasing the best waterproof lighter. On top of that, we have a number of products that come with our highest recommendations.
| Product name | Ignition Type | Material | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| UST Trekker Stormproof | Piezoelectric | Stainless steel | Check price on Amazon |
| Zippo Emergency Fire Starter Kit | Flint wheel | Lightweight plastic | Check price on Amazon |
| UST Stormproof Floating | Piezoelectric | Lightweight plastic | Check price on Amazon |
| Eveco Windproof Plasma | Electric | Zinc alloy | Check price on Amazon |
| Infora FireStash | Flint wheel | Chrome plated zinc | Check price on Amazon |
| FORHU USB Rechargeable | Electric | Zinc alloy | Check price on Amazon |
| Coleman Tempest | Flint wheel | Aluminum | Check price on Amazon |
Things To Consider Before Buying
Every waterproof lighter has its own features. We have reviewed and tested some of the best waterproof lighter choices out there. Here are some of the things you need to consider before you buy in order to choose a lighter that won’t let you down in any weather conditions.
Ease of Use
Every professional hiker who has been on long hikes and expeditions knows that when things get messy, you need to be able to start a fire quickly and easily. When you’re cold, all you want to do is put that hand back into your glove before it freezes and the hypothermia sets in. This means that in cold weather you need a lighter that you can use with only one hand and literally with the push of a button.
Simple, easy designs are ideal for harsh, freezing conditions. But they aren’t always necessary for casual trips or warm wet conditions.
Durability and Fuel Type
Durability in a lighter doesn’t mean that you can use it forever without buying a new one. However, it does mean that when you accidentally drop it on the ground, you can pick it up and keep using it like nothing happened. The durability of a lighter depends on its material and its rust resistance.
Another factor to consider in durability is the fuel type. Lighters generally use either butane or propane fuel. Propane is usually considered to be a more reliable fuel source – so if you need a lighter that’s going to last through long, harsh trips, don’t opt for butane.
Waterproofness
For heavy duty outdoors folks, waterproofness is not an option for your lighter. There are levels to waterproofness, however, and it’s important to consider just how waterproof you need your tool to be.
For rafters, canyoneers, and other adventurers who find themselves in high water, a fully waterproof and submergible lighter is probably a good choice. For those keep their gear safe and dry in a pack but might encounter the occasional dinner-time rainstorm, a simple weatherproof design should suffice.
Altitude Tolerance
Some lighters don’t work in cold weather or high altitudes. If you are backpacking in high altitude terrains, you will need a lighter which is not only waterproof, but also high altitude tolerant. If a lighter can’t get a fire started anywhere you go, there’s no point in carrying it!
With this in mind, if you’re planning on hiking in high altitudes where oxygen is less dense, it is recommended that you choose a torch since they are wind resistant and capable of providing fire with the least amount of oxygen.
Wind Resistance
Wind resistance is especially important to consider when looking for a lighter for high altitude and harsh conditions. Many environments are unfriendly to fire even when dry, and choosing a lighter with a hefty light system is essential for these places.
For a wind resistant lighter, look for a non-spark based design. These include torch designs and piezoelectric – which are far less susceptible to sudden gusts than a traditional flint.
Best Products On Today’s Market
Now that we’ve gone over some of the things to consider before buying your waterproof lighter, let’s get into the products!
UST Trekker Stormproof Lighter
Weight: 0.32 ounces
Dimensions: 1.5 x 1.5 x 3.7 inches
Specific features: Large fuel tank, up to 1,000 ignitions per refill, windproof up to 80 mph, piezoelectric ignition
Best use: Very wet/harsh weather
This high quality product is a must have in your camping equipment. It is field tested survival gear that will help you in those unexpected situations. The UST Trekker Stormproof Lighter is the number one trend brand in the survival industry.
If you are located in a windy area, have no fear! This lighter withstands winds of seventy to eighty miles per hour and burns clean. It has a piezoelectric ignition system that lasts for over 30,000 ignitions. It also features a rubber grip case for easy carrying.
This storm proof lighter is made of a stainless steel with a wire closer and O-ring seal that makes it one of the best waterproof lights. It holds an awesome four grams of fuel, which is enough for one thousand ignitions before needing a refill. It works in all types of adverse weather conditions. This object is the best storm proof lighter for any outdoor enthusiast with a higher budget.
PROS:
- Highly windproof
- Piezoelectric ignition
- High fuel capacity
CONS:
- More expensive
- Bulky
Related: If you want a little extra fire power for dry days, check out the UST SparkMax 1.0 Fire Starter. This flint bar features a multi tool and compass for ultimate wilderness survival.
Zippo Emergency Fire Starter Kit
Weight: 2.4 ounces
Dimensions: 3.0 x 2.0 x 1.0 inches
Specific features: Simple design, includes water resistant tinder sticks, orange easy to hold design, plastic case
Best use: Outdoors, survival
The Zippo Emergency Fire Starter Kit is a perfect match for any outdoor activity. Its quality is tested and it features a durable, simple, and easy to use design. It is also comfortable to use and provides great performance even during the toughest conditions. The kit is compact and durable which means that you don’t have to worry about it breaking down on you.
The kit comes in an orange color edition which certainly helps in visibility. Plus, it comes with an O-ring sealed plastic waterproof case which is great for keeping the kit dry. The lighter has reliable flint-wheel ignition and includes four tinder sticks. This item is excellent for camping and hiking, but the flint ignition is not ideal for windy conditions.
Nonetheless, this is a great, reliable and affordable way to get your fire started while in the backcountry.
PROS:
- Comes with included tinder sticks
- More affordable
- Comes with waterproof seal
CONS:
- Not wind resistant
- Not high altitude tolerant
Related: For an even more accessible heat during colder conditions, check out the Zippo Hand Warmer. This palm-sized device provides 6-12 hours of gentle heat for your hands in all cold conditions.
UST Stormproof Floating Lighter
Weight: 0.78 ounces
Dimensions: 2.6 x 1.6 x 0.5 inches
Specific features: Piezoelectric ignition, flame reaches 2,000 degrees F, waterproof ABS case and O-ring seal, functional to 8,000 ft, butane fill
Best use: Rafting and canyoneering
The UST Stormproof Floating Lighter comes in a black variant. It is the perfect choice when it comes to outdoor activities like fishing, rafting, and other water sports. It is wind proof, storm proof waterproof, and buoyant.
This product is an excellent addition to your hiking gear or camping equipment. This is a butane lighter with piezoelectric ignition and it performs without fail in the most adverse weather conditions. This little lighter has a good and strong flame and comes with a waterproof case. It is good for upgrading your survival bag, bug out bag, or emergency kit. Keep in mind that you should fill it with high quality butane for better performance.
While this is certainly a good budget firestarter, it doesn’t compromise in terms of performance and reliability. What more can you ask for in a waterproof lighter?
PROS:
- Fully waterproof
- Buoyant
- High heat flame
CONS:
- Butane only
- No hook or lanyard
Related: If you’re like this writer, the hardest part of using your firestarting gear is finding it in your pack. For some additional light to use with your lighter, check out the UST SplashLight LED Light – a handy, hand held flashlight with massive battery power.
Eveco Windproof Plasma Lighter
Weight: 7 ounces
Specific features: USB rechargeable, no gas required, bulletproof zinc case, includes 1 year warranty
Best use: Day hiking and car camping
The Eveco Windproof USB Lighter is an interesting product which works with advanced technology. It is created from a solid zinc alloy case with a bulletproof feature. It never loses the varnish responsible for its glow so it never gets rusty.
This lighter has a polymer battery with smart PCB control and a high level conversion rate. The main characteristic is that it is USB rechargeable. There is no fuel and no gas. This model has a high capacity battery and one charge provides more than one hundred lights.
It will light your candles, start your campfire, and it is good for everyday use too. It can be recharged by a power bank, personal computer, laptop, or phone adapter. It takes two hours for a fully charged battery. This is a new environment-friendly product that you will simply adore. While it’s great for windy conditions, it’s not ideal for wet ones and is not submersible.
PROS:
- Rechargeable
- Uses no gas
- Windproof
CONS:
- Only works when charged
- Not fully waterproof
- Heavier
Related: For more great camping products, check out the Eveco New Generation Camping Chair. This portable, lightweight camp chair is the perfect addition to any campfire!
Infora FireStash Lighter
Weight: 0.31 ounces
Dimensions: 0.59 x 0.59 x 1.77 inches
Specific features: Key ring compatible, chrome plated, neoprene O-ring, flint wheel ignition, lightweight
Best use: Backpacking
The Infora FireStash Lighter is very suitable not just for every outdoor applications but for every day use as well. It is a miniature waterproof lighter that matches perfectly with your key ring collection. With it being attached to your keyring, you should not have any problems about losing your lighter which is a common annoyance among backpackers.
It features a chrome-plated zinc alloy case and a neoprene O-ring that keeps water out which should help with durability and longevity. It uses petrol fuel that can be easily refilled for endless lights.
This lighter is a lightweight, simple way to start a fire which is what makes a good survival lighter. However, it is not windproof and it does not perform that great in high altitudes.
Nonetheless, for fair-weather backpacking, it hard to go wrong with this particular lighter.
PROS:
- Lightweight
- Affordable
- Attaches to keyring
CONS:
- Not windproof
- Not high-altitude compatible
Related: For a windproof option from the same manufacturer, check out the FireWire Turbo Jet Lighter from Infora. This windproof lighter features a torch-style ignitor and works at high altitudes as it is windproof.
FORHU USB Rechargeable Lighter
Weight: 3.2 ounces
Dimensions: 2.8 x 1.3 x 0.4 inches
Specific features: USB rechargeable, electric ignition, zinc alloy case, double arc design, charges in one hour
Best use: Day hiking and car camping
The FORHU Windproof Lighter is new and made with advanced technology. It is rechargeable via USB and there is a LED indicator that indicates charging status. The lighter is electrical so it doesn’t need any flame, butane, or hassle, and it works by creating two electric cross arcs, a significant advantage over your traditional lighters. It also sports a modern design which makes it an excellent gift for your friends and family.
With one press of a button, two electric cross arcs are created which provides the flame. The product only needs to be charged for about an hour and it can work for 3 days. With that said, this might not be the best lighter to use if you’re going on a multi day trip. But if you do, make sure that you bring a backup lighter.
Additionally, it is windproof but not fully waterproof which makes it not the best option for wet conditions. If you’re looking for a reliable rechargeable lighter, this rechargeable lighter is an easy recommendation.
PROS:
- Charges quickly
- Reliable
- Windproof
CONS:
- More expensive
- Not fully waterproof
Coleman Tempest Windproof Lighter
Weight: 4.39 ounces
Dimensions: 2.8 x 1.8 x 0.2 inches
Specific features: Aluminum case; refillable with butane; waterproof latch cap
Best use: All weather backpacking
The Coleman Tempest Windproof Lighter a good item for camping, hunting and other outdoor trips. When closed, the product is water resistant and windproof. You can refill it with butane, allowing for repeated use on all your trips and not having to worry about running out of lighter fuel.
In addition to the flint wheel ignition, this lighter features a waterproof latch cap and aluminum case. For added utility, the lighter comes with a handy LED Flashlight which is another source of light when you’re in the wild. Another noteworthy feature of this lighter is its looks. The forest green gives it a nice, attractive look which makes it a good present for a fellow outdoor enthusiast.
Overall, it’s pretty much a basic waterproof lighter that gets the job done. For the price, it’s hard to go wrong with this Coleman product.
PROS:
- Waterproof
- Durable
- Affordable
CONS:
- Heavier
- Butane only
Related: If you need a way to put your new lighter to use, check out the Coleman Deluxe PerfectFlow Lantern. It’s propane operated and features a fully adjustable light output.
Summing Things Up
If you plan on spending time in nature, it’s essential to choose a quality lighter. No one plans on getting into trouble – but it happens. And the one thing that can often save the day, or even your life, is a good fire. We’ve gone over all you need to know when picking a high-quality lighter and some of the best products you can buy.
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