Outdoor Blog

5 Stupid-Simple Ways to Start a Fire Pit

Published

3 years ago

May 20, 2021

Whether you’re in the backyard or out in the sticks, starting a fire doesn’t have to be a painful process.

There are countless ways to get your fire pit going, from the extreme survivalist DIY approach to the simplicity of a propane-fueled backyard fire pit. Of course, there are also a lot of methods in between. And this list is going to zero in on the easiest options out there and how to get the most out of them.

Sit back, relax, and get ready for a pain-free fire pit experience. Whether you’re heading out on the trail or preparing for a summer barbeque, these fire pit tups will get your fire started in no time. One of the big things to keep in mind is that preparation is key.

Think through what your goals are and make sure you have all the right materials on hand. And of course, always consider safety measures and be ready to put out your fire pit at any time.

An extinguisher is a must-have for fire safety at home and outdoors.

Before You Start: Fire Pit Safety

The first step to a worry-free fire pit experience is to make sure to keep safety in mind the whole time. It can be surprisingly easy to get caught up in the fun and forget about common fire safety rules. But the quickest way to ruin a night around the fire pit is with a bad injury or a dangerous experience.

If you’re using a gas-fueled fire pit in particular, be careful to read any safety labeling and make sure there aren’t gas leaks or broken valves before you start. You should also be careful about flammable liquids around a fire pit. Whether unrelated liquids like bug spray, or accelerants like lighter fluid, care must be taken with flammable material around an open fire.

You should not use accelerants with a gas-powered fire and if you use them with a wood-burning fire, apply them sparingly and make sure the container is far away when you actually start your fire. Finally, you should always be ready to extinguish a fire. If you’re at home, you should have a fire extinguisher in the house.

Consider storing one outside for the fire pit as well, either in the shed or garage, so that it’s closer. Out in the woods, you should have water or sand on hand to smother the fire when needed. Some fire pits can also be extinguished with a dome or lid that cuts off airflow to the fire.

5 Ways to Start a Fire Pit

So let’s dig into a few different ways to start a fire pit. Some of these are going to require special equipment and setup. Those are listed first. So if you’re reading this as you stand over an unlit fire, maybe skip ahead to the later suggestions.

Another thing to consider is how you’re using the fire. Some of these options are going to be better for cooking, while others are ideal for providing warmth. Consider your goals before starting your fire. And remember: always keep fire safety in mind.

1. Remote Ignition

The ultimate in easy fire start-up, a remote ignition system can be installed in most backyard fire pits, but you should check local regulations and confer with your home owner’s association before installing one. Amazing simple to use, remote-controlled ignition systems make any natural gas or propane set up even more convenient.

This is a great idea for those who plan on using their backyard fire put often. Most remote ignition systems also have important safety features, such as a flame sensor that will turn off the gas if the flame goes out. Still, you should keep an eye on your fire pit while it’s lit, especially if you’re using gas or propane.

One thing to keep in mind is that gas-fueled fire pits, whether remote-controlled or otherwise, won’t be a great option for cooking. You can probably make s’mores on them, but a gas fire pit is not ideal for more extensive cooking.

Close up of an outdoor fireplace with a big yellow flame and black background

Gas fire pits are easy to use and don’t need much maintenance. They also pollute less than wood fire pits.

2. Gas-Fueled Fire Pits

Let’s talk more about gas-fueled fire pits. In addition to considering remote-controlled ignition systems, you’ll need to be choosing between natural gas, butane, and propane if you want to go with a gas-fueled fire. Deciding between these three fuel sources can be tricky, but there are a few main things to consider.

Propane and butane are similar and will both be stored in tanks that you can change out and refill. Natural gas on the other hand, which is mostly methane, will need to be connected to your fire pit from a natural gas line. One consideration is that natural gas is the cheapest of the three options per BTU, but keep in mind it comes with some more extensive setup.

Other than that, propane performs better than butane in cold weather and stores more easily. You won’t see much butane available these days but it’s popular in some regions. Whichever kind of fuel you choose, gas fire pits can be a great option for keeping you warm, lighting up an outdoor party, and more.

They’re very easy to use and can make entertaining easy. If you want something more portable you’re going to need a propane or butane set up but for camping, there’s an even more portable option than a full gas-powered fire pit: the burner pipe.

3. Using a Burner Pipe

A stainless-steel burner pipe can be used to light a fire quickly, without tinder, or in damp conditions. There are many different forms of burner pipe available on the market, so look out for camping-specific products if you’re planning to take one out into the wilderness.

Some are designed with extra safety features to prevent wildfires or are designed for easy portability. The way it works is that you build a fire as if you’re going to light it in a traditional way. If you don’t know how to do this, don’t worry, we’re about to cover that in the next section!

Next, place the log-lighter below your firewood, where you’d normally put tinder and kindling. Then you can light the fire in the same way you would a gas-fueled fire pit. Turn on the gas valve slowly, light it with a long-handled lighter, and wait for your logs to light.

The big difference here is that you should turn off a burner pipe as soon as your logs are lit. Remember, the gas isn’t there to be the main fule, just get you started. This is a great option for a more portable way to use gas to get your outdoor fire pit started.

4. Traditional Tinder & Kindling Fires

As you can probably tell, gas is a lot easier to use than traditional firewood, tinder, and kindling setup. That said, there are some surprisingly easy ways to light a wood-burning fire pit as well. It all starts with gathering the right materials and getting things set up correctly. You can save a lot of time and effort by thinking through how you build a fire before getting started.

Building a Traditional Wood Fire

The first step is to gather the proper materials. Ideally, you want to have this done long before you actually need to use a fire pit. However, in the right environment, you may be able to source these materials pretty quickly. Keep in mind, different states, parks, and regions have regulations about sourcing firewood from the woods around, or bringing in your own.

Make sure you know the local codes and regulations around firewood before you begin. You’ll need three main types of fuel. The pieces of firewood itself, which will be logs or larger pieces of slab wood. Then, you’ll need kindling, which is small sticks, twigs, and other wood pieces, up to about a 1” diameter.

Finally, you need tinder, which will be dry grass, dry leaves, very small pieces of wood or wood shavings, or even items like balled-up paper or cotton balls. There are two main ways to build a fire. With both, you want to start by piling tinder in the center of your fire pit.

You want a good-sized pile. The more tinder you have, the easier the fire will be to light. Just make sure it’s lightly piled and not packed in in order to maintain enough airflow. Then you can stack kindling on top of that, sort of in a pyramid shape, using smaller pieces first. Now, you can either light the kindling first and add logs as it gets going, or you can set up the logs on top.

Lighting Your Fire

Most people with a lot of fire-starting experience will start the fire here and then add firewood. It can be easier, though, to start out with some firewood already stacked up. If you’re going to add your firewood in advance, make sure it’s high enough off the kindling to let the air reach it and yet close enough that it can catch the flames from the burning tinder and kindling.

You want to arrange the logs wither in a “teepee” shape, with logs leaned together above the pile of kindling, or a “log cabin” shape. In the “log cabin,” you lay logs in a Crisscross pattern around and above the pile of tinder and kindling.

Make sure some of the logs cover the center of the fire where your tinder will be lit! Remember, fire burns from the bottom up, so you want each successive size of wood on top of the smaller pieces. And again, airflow is important.

With either shape, you want to have gaps between the large logs and lots of space beneath them. Then, reach into this space with a long-handled lighter or long-stemmed match and light the tinder at the center. If you’ve built the fire correctly, the kindling will catch from there, and then the logs.

5. Faster Fire-Starters for a Wood-Burning Fire Pit

Okay, take a deep breath! While this sounds like a lot, starting a traditional wood fire is not all that difficult. And it’s easier than ever now that three are tools like starter logs, lighter fluid, and seasoned firewood available. One very popular fast-burning option for tinder is to use pinecones.

You can find your own: make sure they are completely dry, and look for broad, fanned-out scales. Or, you can buy pinecone firestarters from outfitters and hardware stores. You can also play around with the type of wood you use to get better results. In particular, look into using “fatwood” for kindling.

Fatwood is made of split pine stumps with a ver thigh resin content. So, when dried, they provide especially flammable kindling and can keep a fire going quite easily. Just having a little fatwood on hand can make starting a wood fire much, much easier.

The final factor to consider if you’re trying to make starting a traditional wood fire simpler and easier is moisture content. Obviously, you want to use dry firewood. But in particular, try to get firewood that’s been seasoned in a kiln. Seasoned firewood is much drier than anything you’ll find on your own and is a lot easier to light and keep lit.

Exercise plenty of caution when using wood shavings to start a fire as it can spread out of control very quickly!

Additional DIY Fire Starters

In addition to the traditional tinder options, like dry leaves, pine needles, and small twigs, there are a few other materials you can use for a quicker and easier fire starter. One really popular alternative tinder option is dryer lint! Everyone has some around and it works really well to get a fire started quickly.

You can also use bark shavings and birch bark in particular is very flammable. Or, try using wood shavings to start a fire quickly and easily. If you use these options, however, please be very careful about containing your fire. Wood shavings can blow away easily and they’re very flammable, so have a bucket of water on hand and pay attention to where your tinder is and what it’s doing.

How to Put Out a Fire Safely

As you can see, fire safety is an integral part of making fire puts simple and easy. The same is true when it comes time to end the night and put out your fire. Gas fire pits are pretty straightforward. You just need to make sure the gas is entirely turned off.

If you’re burning wood though, especially out in the sticks, you need to be very careful about putting out your fire. The risk of wildfire will depend greatly on where you are, the season, and the surrounding conditions, but really fires can get out of hand anywhere at any time.

This is why Smokey the Bear became so well known to campers. So how do you put out a fire safely? The best option is to wait until it burns down to embers on its own. There’s less risk of collapsing logs shooting sparks or hot embers out this way, but it also means you’re not wasting firewood by dousing it in water.

If you need to stop a fire earlier though, just pour water or sand over top and mix it with the dirt until everything is smothered. If you still see smoke, your fire is not out.

Final Verdict:

Starting a fire pit doesn’t have to be an all-day event. With a couple of simple tips in mind, you can be the hero of your next family camping trip and stay sane while doing it. In particular, using more flammable materials like wood shavings or “fatwood” can cut down on the time it takes to light your fire pit significantly while still maintaining the traditional campfire feel.

Still, for backyard entertaining and similar applications, a gas fire pit can deliver what you want.

Bonus tip: Consider using “trick” birthday candles as an easy-to-use fire starter like in this video.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iNKedISH2Hk

Outdoor Blog

Gear You Should Snag for the Great Outdoors This Season

Published

2 months ago

September 25, 2024

Caleb Cole

Outdoor enthusiasts know that having the right gear can make all the difference. Whether you’re hiking, camping, hunting, or engaging in any other outdoor activity, quality equipment ensures not only safety but also a better overall experience. As we head into a new season, it’s time to refresh your gear collection with essential items that will enhance your adventures. In this article, we’ll explore five pieces of must-have outdoor gear, focusing on both practicality and comfort.

Shooting Glasses Are Essential for Outdoor Adventures

If you’re heading out for a shooting range session or a hunting trip, investing in a quality pair of shooting glasses is non-negotiable. Eye protection is critical when engaging in any activity involving firearms, and shooting glasses are designed to keep your eyes safe from potential hazards like debris, shell casings, and even harmful UV rays.

Shooting glasses are a key safety measure that helps shield your eyes from impact and glare. The lenses are typically made from high-impact resistant materials that can endure tough conditions, making them a must-have for hunters, target shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Beyond safety, these glasses often come with polarized lenses to improve visibility in various lighting conditions. By incorporating shooting glasses into your outdoor gear, you’re ensuring not only better safety but also improved performance during your time in the wilderness.

What Should You Look For During Black Friday Hunting Gear Deals?

One of the best times to stock up on essential outdoor gear is during Black Friday. Black Friday hunting gear deals provide an opportunity for hunters to snag high-quality items at significantly reduced prices. Whether you’re after apparel, backpacks, or specialized equipment, Black Friday sales often feature steep discounts on top brands that every outdoor enthusiast should take advantage of.

This sale season is ideal for upgrading your hunting wardrobe and stocking up on essential gear that may normally be out of your price range. From weather-resistant jackets to durable boots and base layers, hunting gear can be pricey, and Black Friday is the perfect time to invest in the best equipment. By keeping an eye out for deals during this shopping period, you can save money while ensuring you’re well-prepared for your next big adventure.

Multi-Tools Are a Must-Have

Want to know the most versatile pieces of gear you can carry? It is a multi-tool. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or hunting, having a tool that can serve multiple functions is a game-changer. Multi-tools come equipped with a variety of features such as knives, screwdrivers, pliers, and scissors, all compactly housed in a single device that easily fits in your pocket or pack.

The practicality of a multi-tool is hard to beat. It allows you to tackle unexpected tasks, from cutting rope to repairing gear, all without needing to carry a full toolbox. When you’re out in the wild, you want to be prepared for anything, and a multi-tool ensures you’re ready to handle small emergencies or make quick fixes with ease.

Insulated Water Bottles Can Improve Your Outdoor Experience

Staying hydrated is one of the most important aspects of any outdoor activity. Whether you’re embarking on a long hike or spending hours in a hunting blind, having an insulated water bottle can make a difference. Insulated bottles have features that help to keep your drinks at the desired temperature for a long time, which is especially useful during extreme weather conditions.

These bottles maintain the temperature of your beverage—whether cold or hot—so you can enjoy refreshing water in the summer or a warm drink during chilly morning hunts. Insulated water bottles are also typically made from durable materials, meaning they can withstand the rigors of outdoor use without breaking or leaking. Investing in a high-quality insulated bottle ensures that you stay hydrated and comfortable throughout your outdoor excursions.

Durable Backpacks Can Enhance Your Outdoor Experience

A good backpack is the cornerstone of any successful outdoor trip. When you’re out in nature, you need a reliable, durable pack to carry all of your gear comfortably. Look for backpacks that are built to withstand harsh conditions, provide ample storage, and have ergonomic designs that distribute weight evenly to prevent strain on your back and shoulders.

Modern outdoor backpacks come equipped with multiple compartments to help you stay organized, as well as specialized features like hydration bladder compatibility, rain covers, and reinforced straps. By investing in a durable, well-designed backpack, you’ll have the capacity to carry everything you need—whether it’s extra clothing, food, or hunting gear—while maintaining comfort during long treks.

Outdoor Blog

Are You Ready for Autumn Adventures? How to Prep for an Unforgettable Outdoor Fall Guys Trip

Published

3 months ago

August 26, 2024

Caleb Cole

As autumn rolls in, the great outdoors beckons with its crisp air and colorful foliage. For those gearing up for an adventurous Fall Guys trip—think hiking, camping, and maybe some deer hunting—the preparation is half the fun and all the necessity. With a myriad of activities to choose from, how do you ensure your fall excursion is not only exhilarating but also safe and comfortable? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most of your outdoor escapades this fall.

Choosing Your Adventure

First things first: deciding what type of fall outdoor activity tickles your fancy. Are you looking to conquer trails with breathtaking autumn views, or are you gearing up for a weekend of tranquil camping beside a glistening lake? Perhaps, the thrill of tracking and observing wildlife is what you’re after.

Each activity demands a different approach and preparation method. Start by defining what your fall guys trip looks like. Is it a quiet escape into the wilderness, a challenging hike, or a dedicated hunting expedition? Once you’ve nailed down the type of trip, you can start tailoring your prep list to match the demands of the activities you’ve chosen.

Plan a Camping Trip

If camping is on your agenda, meticulous planning is essential to enjoy both the spontaneity and serenity of nature without a hitch. When you plan a camping trip, think beyond just a tent and a sleeping bag. Consider the overall length of your trip, the climate of your chosen destination, and the size of your group. Are you venturing into bear country? If so, bear-proof containers for your food and trash are a must.

What’s the weather forecast? Ensure your gear is appropriate for colder nights and unpredictable weather patterns. A well-planned camping experience means securing the right campsite, bringing sufficient food and water supplies, and ensuring you have the necessary permits. Also, be aware of the leave-no-trace principles to keep your environmental impact to a minimum. Planning with precision ensures you’re free to relax and revel in the beauty of the season without unnecessary interruptions.

Gear Up for Deer Hunting

For many outdoor enthusiasts, fall is synonymous with deer hunting season. If this is the core of your guys trip, gearing up appropriately cannot be overstressed. Your deer hunting gear is your ticket to not only success but also safety. Start with the basics: a reliable hunting rifle or bow, suitable ammunition, and a quality scope or binoculars for spotting your target.

Clothing is next on the list; opt for layers that can easily adjust to changing temperatures and are also camouflaged to blend in with the fall environment. Don’t skimp on a good pair of boots—comfort, warmth, and durability are key when you’re on the move. Also, essential gear like a hunting license, deer tags, a first-aid kit, and even a GPS or compass should be non-negotiable items in your pack. Remember, the right gear not only enhances your chances of a fruitful hunt but ensures you can do so safely and responsibly within the ecological balance.

Map Your Route

Mapping your route is crucial whether you’re hiking, camping, or hunting. This involves more than just selecting a trail or a campsite; it means understanding the terrain, noting water sources, identifying potential shelter spots, and being aware of exit points in case of emergencies. Topographic maps, GPS devices, and even mobile apps can be incredibly useful tools for this.

Spend time familiarizing yourself with the area through these resources, and always carry a physical map and compass—you never know when technology might let you down. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about where you plan to go and expected return time is a safety must. Properly mapping your route not only helps in avoiding getting lost but also maximizes your interaction with nature, letting you find those hidden spots that make a trip memorable.

Prepare Physically and Mentally

The physical demands of outdoor activities, especially in the unpredictable weather of fall, should not be underestimated. Start conditioning your body weeks in advance, particularly if your trip involves strenuous activities like long hikes or hunting. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hikes with a loaded backpack can prepare your body for the exertion to come.

Equally important is mental preparation. Familiarize yourself with survival skills, such as how to start a fire, basic first aid, and how to stay calm in unexpected situations. A physically and mentally prepared adventurer is more likely to enjoy the trip and handle potential challenges effectively.

Pack Smart

The final step in preparing for your outdoor trip this fall is packing. Since fall weather can be highly variable, layering is key. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Besides clothing, pack essential gear tailored to your activities—this could include a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures, waterproof bags to keep gear dry, cooking equipment, food supplies, and safety items like a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool. Be mindful of the weight and volume of your pack; every item should justify its place in your backpack by being essential or serving multiple purposes.

Outdoor Blog

BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024

Published

5 months ago

June 26, 2024

Jonas Muthoni

BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.

At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.

The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.

In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.

BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.

For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.