If you’re setting out camping, then it’s important to bring along some fire starters that will work in any situation. And one of those should be something that will work in windy conditions.
For that, we recommend a windproof lighter to get the job done.
Below we’ll share four of the best windproof lighters for camping that we’ve seen, as well as tips on what to look for when shopping for one of these.
Editor Picks: Best Windproof Lighters for Campers
What To Consider Before Buying
While there’s no doubt that the Zippo is the most commonly used among the campers that I know, it’s not a good idea for you to just go with whatever is most popular. Instead, you should consider your needs and pick the lighter that works best for your style of camping. We’ve got a few tips to make that easier for you.
Why Choose A Windproof Lighter?
You never know what type weather conditions that you’re going to end up in out the woods, and that why a windproof lighter should always be in your gear bag.
You see, this type of lighter is designed to work in high wind situations, such as up to 80 to 90 miles per hour of wind.
Types of Windproof Lighters
Among the various windproof lighters on the market, you will find that they are available in a few different fuel types.
- Flame
- Jet
- USB
Flame lighters are the most common on the market, with Zippo being the most commonly used out there. They work really well out in the field and are very easy to use. Oc course, they’re note 100% weather resistant.
Jet lighters are butane lighters that give a stable in all types of winds and will hold steady in any kind of weather.
USB lighters are electric lighters that don’t require any fuel source other than electricity. If you happen to have a solar panel or a Biolite stove with a USB charger, then this is a great option to keep in your pack. Plus, this type also works well in wind.
Fuel Tank Capacity
The amount of uses that you’ll get from your lighter is an important thing to consider. The longer you’re out in the wilderness, the larger fuel capacity that you’ll need from your lighter.
Electric USB lighters often have between 200 and 300 uses from a full charge.
Jet and fuel lighters typically offer about a weeks worth of moderate usage, but do be sure to check your fuel tank size before heading out camping with your lighter.
Durability
It is important that you choose a lighter that is durable and won’t break if you drop it while you’re making your way to the camp spot. The last thing you want to have happen is end up with a broken lighter than can’t spark a flame for you to make a camp fire at night.
The best camping lighters can take a drop on the ground and keep working like new. So, avoid lighters that have a plastic exterior. Instead, look for something with a steel exterior, like a classic Zippo lighter.
Zippo Windproof Lighter Review
If you’re looking for a classic option that is known for performing well and being a durable option, then you can’t go wrong with a Zippo.
It’s compact size easily fits in your pant pocket or in a zippered pouch of your backpack. And it is very easy to use – just flip that top and ignite it for a flame.
It burns Zippo lighter fluid, which you have to purchase separately.
To keep it operating at peak performance, the wick and flint can be replaced. And it’s steel exterior makes it a very durable camping lighter since you don’t need to worry about any damage if you drop it out on the trail.
The the only drawback is that the fuel will evaporate quickly. However, extra fuel canisters are inexpensive and lightweight, so take one with you when you go camping.
How to Refill A Zippo Lighter
top image by anatoliy_gleb/Deposit Photos
The Amazon link for the Zippo lighter is for a Chinese Star lighter. It is in the customer reviews or we would have not caught the issue. The price was really too good to be a Zippo lighter. Oh well…buyers beware!
Oh wow, thanks for letting us know! Sometimes Amazon lets scammers take over products pages, and that sounds like what might have happened.