15 Best Survival Lighters

The ability to create fire is one of mankind’s greatest achievements. Cooked food provides more nutrients than uncooked food, and many scientists believe that it’s this unique ability that enabled our ancestors to grow bigger, more powerful brains than the other great apes.

Thanks to those same big brains, we no longer have to rub a pair of sticks together just to start a fire. As a matter of fact, with a modern waterproof lighter, you can start a fire under just about any conditions. But with so many options available, how do you know what the best survival lighter is?

To help you find the best camping lighter, we’ve searched far and wide. In the end, we came up with fifteen options that we think are the most reliable on the market, whether you’re looking for a windproof lighter or an emergency tinder kit. Now let’s take a look at the best stormproof lighters!

15 Best Survival Lighters

1. True Utility FireStash

The True Utility Firestash is very compact, so you can carry it almost as an afterthought.

Key Features

• Lighter fluid lighter
• Zinc alloy construction
• Screw-down cap
• Built-in key ring
• Weighs 2.9 ounces

The True Utility Firestash Lighter Multi-Tool is a compact lighter that’s built to be both portable and 100 percent waterproof. If you’re looking for an everyday carry lighter that’s also useful for survival purposes, this is a well-designed, reliable choice.

This lighter has a durable, zinc alloy case with a brushed chrome finish. The zinc provides for corrosion resistance and sturdiness, while the chrome finish is attractive and classy. The top of the case features a pre-installed 20mm key ring, which allows you to carry it easily with your car keys or house keys, or to link it to a carabineer on your camping gear.

This lighter features a neoprene O-ring seal that keeps water on the outside and dry, clean air on the inside. This seal also protects against humidity, so your flint and steel will remain safe from corrosion. Refilling the lighter is easy; simply pull out the base, wet the cotton filler around the wick, and slide it back in.

Pros

• Very compact
• Waterproof design
• Easy to refill
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Does not last long in storage
• Small fuel supply

This is a great choice if you’re carrying your lighter for emergencies only.

2. UCO Stormproof Torch

The UCO Stormproof Torch has an adjustable flame that allows for multiple uses.

Key Features

• Butane lighter
• High-visibility green ABS plastic construction
• Waterproof and windproof
• Built-in carabineer
• Weighs 3.4 ounces

The UCO Stormproof Torch is a tough, ABS plastic lighter that weighs in at just under three and a half ounces. It features silicone seals around the base of the lid, as well as an aluminum carabineer for carrying. Be aware that the carabineer is a bit flimsy, so you shouldn’t rely on it if your lighter is getting pulled on.

That said, this lighter is a great choice for nasty weather. It offers excellent protection against wind, and it uses butane rather than standard lighter fluid, so it can also remain in storage for a long time without the need for recharging.

Not that you’ll need to recharge often; the fuel tank holds enough butane for up to seven-hundred lights. The flame is also adjustable, so there’s no need to burn more fuel than is necessary for your task.

This lighter is also easy to refuel. Simply press down on the nozzle to release any residual pressure, then insert your butane tank to top off the fuel. Then you’re ready to go!

Pros

• Durable, waterproof case
• Adjustable flame
• Easy to refill
• Affordable

Cons

• Cheap carabineer

This lighter take just a few seconds to refuel and makes a worthwhile daily driver.

3. UST

The UST Refillable is designed to float in the water, which makes it a great choice for rafting or kayaking trips.

Key Features

• Butane lighter
• Black or orange ABS plastic construction
• Impact-resistant case
• Weighs 0.84 ounces

The UST Refillable Floating Lighter features a piezoelectric ignition system, which will function even in heavy fog or light rain. This system is also easy on the circuitry, so it’s rated to last for more than 30,000 ignitions.

Then again, you’re not going to have to worry much about the weather impacting this lighter’s performance; an O-ring seal keeps out all humidity and ensures that your contacts remain dry even when the weather is wet.

This lighter is also well equipped to perform even after it ends up in the water. It floats when the case is closed, so kayakers and canoe enthusiasts will appreciate it.

This is a major plus and is not to be overlooked. In addition, the flame on the UST is rated to withstand winds up to 80 miles per hour. If you need to light a fire in a hurricane – which we don’t recommend – this lighter will get the job done.

Pros

• Locking clasp on lid
• Two ignition backups
• Floats in the water

Cons

• Small flame

The locking clasp on this lighter’s lid is very secure, keeping it dry under almost any circumstances.

4. Zippo Orange Matte

The Zippo Matte is a true classic that requires no introduction.

Key Features

• Lighter fluid lighter
• Steel and aluminum construction
• Windproof
• Weighs 2 ounces
• Available in 14 colors

The Zippo Matte Pocket Lighter is one of the most popular lighters on the market, and it should be no surprise. Zippo is one of the most respected brands in the world of lighters, and their matte pocket lighter is the bread and butter of their lineup.

The matte texture isn’t just a way to keep the price down; it’s also a feature. The texture is light and easy to slip into a pocket, while still providing enough grip to make the lighter easy to handle in heavy rain, or when your hands are sweaty.

This lighter is available in 14 different colors and comes with a plastic storage case that will keep dust and moisture out. The frame itself is 100 percent stainless steel, and refilling is easy. Simply pull the lighter out of the case, and you’re ready to soak down the cotton insert. Wicks, flints, and inserts are all readily available, so you’ll have no issues replacing parts on this versatile lighter.

Pros

• Exceptionally durable design
• Windproof
• Easily replaceable parts
• Affordable

Cons

• Not waterproof

If you want to be able to buy replacement parts for your lighter 50 years from now, any Zippo is a good choice.

5. Q&G Dual Arc

The Q&G Dual Arc Lighter recharges via USB, a unique and quirky feature on any lighter.

Key Features

• Electric lighter
• ABS and zinc alloy construction
• Large closing clasp
• Rechargeable USB battery
• Weighs 1.8 ounces
• Available in 8 colors

The Q&G Dual Arc Lighter is a perfect choice for backpacking, hiking, or hunting. It uses an internal lithium-ion battery instead of liquid fuel, which means you don’t need to worry about refilling, or about your fuel drying out while your lighter is in storage. The battery recharges via USB, which makes it easy to recharge just about anywhere, including anywhere you can charge your cell phone.

This lighter is operated with a simple push-button, which eliminates the need for wheels or other more complex controls. It also features a blue LED light, which indicates when the power is turned on or off.

The Dual Arc Lighter is a great choice for kayaking, canoeing, or any activity that involves going out in wet conditions. The outer housing is constructed from a corrosion-resistant zinc alloy, while an O-ring seal protects the inner elements from flooding or fog. And even when exposed, the element remains hot enough to light dry tinder even in 80-degree winds, so you can use this lighter under any conditions.

Pros

• Waterproof and windproof
• USB rechargeable
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Small heat source

This rechargeable lighter is a solid choice if you don’t want to deal with fuel

6. Zippo Emergency Fire Starter

The Zippo Emergency Fire Starter is a reliable flint and tinder kit for starting a fire without a lighter.

Key Features

• Flint and tinder set
• Waterproof ABS plastic construction
• Replaceable components
• Weighs 1.44 ounces

The Zippo Emergency Fire Starter comes from one of the most well-known brands in the business, but it’s not an actual lighter.

This is a simple flint and tinder kit, with a flint wheel that generates a spark, and four frayed wax tinder sticks that are designed to catch fire easily and keep on burning even in wet weather. These sticks can also be torn up and frayed, which allows you to use multiple tinder sticks for starting a single large fire.

The housing itself is water-resistant, and it’s designed to float if you drop it in the water. It features a water-resistant O-ring seal, which keeps lighter fluid from evaporating and also keeps the flint wheel dry and free of corrosion. This means the wheel will work whenever you need it.

Pros

• Compact and lightweight
• Water-resistant
• Does not require any fuel or batteries

Cons

• Harder to use than a lighter

This kit is a great choice if you want something you can throw in a drawer and forget about until you need it.

7. Exotac FireSLEEVE

The Exotac FireSLEEVE is 100 percent waterproof, even if it’s submerged for 30 minutes.

Key Features

• Non-refillable butane lighter
• Black or orange and black PVC construction
• Waterproof
• Floats in water
• Weighs 0.3 ounces

The Exotac FireSLEEVE was designed for kayaking and canoeing, but it’s ended up becoming a popular option for backpackers, hikers, hunters, and everyone else who needs a reliable source of flame. This lighter is waterproof enough to withstand 30 minutes of submersion in water and will float on the surface if you drop it.

This lighter is made in the USA and has a locking feature that enables you to keep the flame running without the need to keep the button held down. This is useful if you’re trying to light a large fire, and want to light multiple points on the tinder.

The Exotac is a great choice for carrying a lightweight heat source that’s impervious to water. It’s hot enough to light a large campfire, as well as to light a thick cigar. If you want a powerful, versatile lighter, the FireSLEEVE will do everything you need to do.

Pros

• Excellent protection from the elements
• The secure, rubbery grip
• Affordable

Cons

• Not refillable

This floating, waterproof lighter is an ideal choice for canoeing or kayaking.

8. Saberlight Sparq

The Saberlight Sparq is a big, powerful electric lighter.

Key Features

• Electric lighter
• Anodized aluminum construction
• USB rechargeable
• Weighs 8 ounces

The Saberlight Sparq is designed for maximum performance under the worst possible wind conditions. The flameless electric arc is impervious to wind, and the triple-arc design provides plenty of heat even for igniting dampened tinder. The design is also splash-proof, although getting a large amount of water directly on the heating element will cause it to sizzle until the water is evaporated.

This lighter runs on a lithium-ion battery, which can be recharged via any USB port. A charging cable is included, and the ability to charge on any phone charger is much appreciated. You can also rely on this lighter to remain safe while it’s in your pocket; an on/off switch prevents operation while it’s turned off, allowing for an extra layer of safety.

Pros

• Flame-free design
• Large heating element
• Windproof and splash-proof
• Easy to recharge

Cons

• Large and heavy

This lighter is ideal if you want to push out a lot of heat without the need for a large flame.

9. SOTO

The SOTO Pocket Torch turns your run-of-the-mill dollar store lighter into an all-weather source of flame.

Key Features

• Disposable lighter upgrade case
• ABS plastic construction with stainless steel burner
• Ergonomic design
• Weighs 1.8 ounces (without disposable lighter)

The SOTO Pocket Torch isn’t, strictly speaking, a lighter. In fact, it’s a lighter case, which is designed to convert an over-the-counter Scripto or similar rectangular lighter into a portable, waterproof torch. This allows you to supercharge your lighter’s performance, and it comes at a much more reasonable price than some of the leading standalone lighters.

This adapter case provides a strong, wind-resistant burner, as well as an electric ignition that will light your fire even if conditions are too wet or cold for your over-the-counter ignition system. It’s a particularly good choice for lighting your grill in cold weather since it can boost your factory flame to a toasty 2,300 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pros

• Easy to refill
• Waterproof and windproof
• Ergonomic grip

Cons

• Only works with Scripto and similar disposable lighters

If you already use a disposable lighter and want to take it on the road, this is a good choice.

10. UST TekFire

The UST TekFire is a lightweight electric lighter that recharges from any standard USB port.

Key Features

• Electric lighter
• Orange ABS plastic construction
• USB rechargeable
• Latching lid
• Paracord wrist lanyard
• Weighs 1.9 ounces

The UST TekFire is a lightweight, easy-to-use lighter that’s a solid choice for camping, hunting, or backpacking. It uses an electric arc to produce a powerful heat source that’s resistant to wind and moisture. The only weakness this lighter has is the USB charging port, which doesn’t have a seal, and can collect dirt and grit which can require cleaning.

This lighter is otherwise fully rubberized and comes with a  lanyard attachment for safe, secure transport. It also features a compact, lightweight battery, which is easy to recharge, and which doesn’t require any fuel for operation. A green LED light indicates when it’s turned on, so you know when you’re actually draining the battery.

Pros

• Waterproof and windproof
• Secure lid
• Affordable

Cons

• USB port can collect dirt

This is one of the most weatherproof electric lighters on the market.

11. Windmill Classic Stormproof

The Windmill Classic Stormproof is a premium survival lighter that’s built to handle any imaginable abuse.

Key Features

• Butane lighter
• High visibility orange fiberglass-reinforced nylon construction
• Waterproof and windproof
• Lanyard hole
• Clasping lid
• Weighs 1.1 ounces

The Windmill Classic Stormproof All Weather Lighter is well designed and is easily refillable with Butane fuel. The fiberglass-reinforced nylon is tough, durable, and features a rubber O-ring cap that keeps out moisture and flooding, maintaining dry valves and ignition contacts.

The flame level on this lighter is adjustable. Simply move the slider, and your flame will rise or shrink at your command. The tank is also easily visible. A glass window on the tank displays your fuel level, so you’ll know when a recharge is necessary.

This lighter is very well-engineered and features a rugged case that can stand up to a lot of abuse. It’s suitable for camping, backpacking, and other outdoor activities. It’s also a great choice as a daily driver since it won’t suffer any damage from regular use.

Pros

• Ergonomic design
• Easy to carry
• Reliable and durable

Cons

• Expensive

This is a true survival lighter, designed to function under almost any circumstances.

12. Everstryke Match

The Everstryke Match has a World War I-style design that still works well a hundred years later.

Key Features

• Lighter fluid lighter
• Stainless steel construction
• Waterproof
• Screw-down lid
• Weighs 1 ounce

The Everstryke Match Pro Lighter is an upgraded version of Everstryke’s original lighter, including a replaceable flint and a denser, higher-capacity wick. This wick is well worth considering since it offers the capacity for more than 15,000 ignitions.

This is a compact lighter, and it’s well designed for use in the field. That said, the World War I-style design doesn’t provide much protection against wind, and leaves it vulnerable to gusts. On the other hand, the screw-down lid and rubber seal provide plenty of protection from moisture, which means the wick will remain water-free even in a powerful storm.

Pros

• Rugged design
• Easy to use and carry
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Not windproof

This lighter is a worthwhile choice if you want a tried and true design.

13. True Utility FireStash

The True Utility FireStash Multi-Tool is oddly named, but still well-designed.

Key Features

• Lighter fluid lighter
• Anodized aluminum construction
• Built-in carabineer
• Weighs 0.6 ounces

The True Utility FireStash Multi-Tool weighs less than an ounce and measures only half an inch in diameter. This ultra-compact lighter still manages to provide plenty of flame for the size and will get your fire started even in the pouring rain, although the wick is not well protected against the wind.

As is to be expected from such a small lighter, the FireStash Multi-Tool has a limited fuel capacity. That said, it’s easy to refill, and lighter fluid is readily available at any corner store. The lighter itself is well constructed, with an anodized aluminum case that attaches to your keyring with a sturdy, but small, carabineer.

Pros

• Compact size
• Waterproof design
• Easy to carry
• Inexpensive

Cons

• Not windproof
• Limited fuel capacity

This lighter includes a carabineer and is well-sized for carrying on your keychain.

14. Windmill AWL-10

The Windmill AWL-10 is a tough butane lighter that’s designed to provide a reliable heat source even under punishing conditions.

Key Features

• Butane lighter
• Military green powder-coated anodized aluminum construction
• Lanyard hole
• Clasping lid
• Weighs 2.08 ounces

The Windmill AWL-10 is constructed from lightweight aluminum, which means it’s more rugged than a plastic lighter, while still weighing less than a stainless steel option. The clasping lid stays tightly sealed no matter what you’re doing, so your lighter stays watertight and dry in your pocket or backpack.

This lighter also features a lanyard hole, so you can carry it in many positions, and the powder-coated finish is highly resistant to scratches. The flame itself is powerful and hot, as well as being resistant to water and wind.

Ignition is easy, with a single click button, and the butane tank is easy to refill. All in all, that’s a lot of quality features for a single lighter. On the other hand, this high-grade lighter will cost you more than most other options on the market.

Pros

• Waterproof and windproof
• Rugged construction
• Easy to carry
• Secure closure

Cons

• Expensive

This lighter is worth the money if you’re willing to pay top dollar for maximum reliability.

15. Xikar Stratosphere II

The Xicar Stratosphere II is thick, chunky, and built like a brick house.

Key Features

• Butane lighter
• Black or clear fiberglass-reinforced nylon construction
• Includes a lanyard
• Spring-loaded flip-up lid with button catch
• Weighs 4 ounces

The Xicar Stratosphere II is a tough, durable lighter that’s designed to take a lot of abuse. The thick, fiberglass-reinforced nylon body weighs a full quarter-pound but is nearly impervious to drops, so you’ll have a lighter that can handle anything you can dish out.

The rubberized grip is easy to carry, and you’ll also have hands-free carrying options thanks to the built-in lanyard. Tie this lighter to your backpack, loop it around your belt, or throw it in your pack. No matter what, it will be ready and raring to go.

A refillable butane fuel chamber provides plenty of storage for dozens of lights, and the flame itself is windproof and waterproof. No matter what kind of weather you’re camping in, the Stratosphere II will be more than capable of getting the job done.

Pros

• Rugged design
• Easy to refill
• Easy to carry

Cons

• Heavy

If you want the most durable survival lighter you can get your hands on, this is a good choice.

Bottom Line

So, which one of these lighters is the best? It depends on what you need.

Many people prefer the reliability of an old-school lighter fluid lighter like a Zippo and other similar brands. These lighters will never fail you, and replacement wicks, flints, and fuel are all widely available. That said, they don’t stand up well to water, and the fluid evaporates after just a couple of months in storage.

On the other end of the spectrum, electric lighters are very popular for their performance under all weather conditions. They’re also stable for up to a few years in storage, although that’s going to vary depending on conditions. In addition, replacement parts are hard to find, so when something breaks you’ll usually have to replace the whole lighter.

Whether you need one of these options or a middle-of-the-road butane lighter depends entirely on how you’re using your lighter. For everyday use, a fueled lighter is more reliable, but electric lighters are oftentimes a better choice if you only use your lighter intermittently.