10 Best Lighters (EDC, Survival, Backpacking)

If you don't smoke do you even need to carry a lighter? I think so...

Lighters can be useful for survival, EDC (every day carry), and backpacking to name but a few uses. Heck...

Sometimes you just want to be able to light a pretty women's cigarette when she asks if you have a light.

And sure unless you are regularly out in the wild you won't need one for lighting a fire but let's be honest...

Lighters are pretty cool as well as being practical so it's handy to have one on your person.

But what's the best lighter? What lighter works best for EDC, survival, backpacking and other situations you find yourself in?

Here are the top lighter picks for whatever situation you find yourself in...

DISCLOSURE: DisasterShelters.net is reader supported so if you buy any products featured on this site I may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Read my full disclosure here.

Lets look at the first one...

1. Best Survival Lighter (Essential For Trips Into The Wild)

If you don't want to starve to death or die of hypothermia in the wild then having a lighter is obviously mandatory for overnight or longer trips.

I'd even recommend you carry one even for single day trips just in case of emergencies, you don't want to be caught out.

The Icfun Waterproof lighter listed below is a good choice because the rain doesn't seep in, it's windproof and flameless, as well as economic and eco-friendly. 

I like the fact it comes with a lanyard that you can wear around your neck so you don't lose it and it's always to hand in an instant.

Likewise the Tough Tesla 2.0 or the TG Plasma option are also solid choices. 

You can see the best survival lighter options here below...

Bestseller No. 1
2 Pack Waterproof Lighter Outdoor Windproof Torch Lighter Dual Arc Lighter Butane Electric Lighter USB Rechargeable Lighter Flameless Plasma Lighter
  • 🏕️【WHAT YOU CAN GET】Package included: 1 usb ARC lighter + 1 butane...
  • 🌧【WATERPROOF & WINDPROOF】These 2 lighters are also built with...
  • 🔋【USB RECHARGABLE LIGHTER】The flameless dual-arc lighter is powered...
SaleBestseller No. 2
LcFun Waterproof Lighter Outdoor Windproof Dual Arc Electric Lighters USB Rechargeable-Flameless-Plasma Cool Lighters for Camping, Hiking, Adventure, Survival Tactical Gear (Black)
  • ❤️Waterproof Design: waterproof lighter, metal-ring sealed cover and...
  • ❤️Multipurpose: windproof and flameless, usb chargeable lighter, it is...
  • ❤️Economic & Eco-Friendly: build-in rechargeable lithium battery, usb...
SaleBestseller No. 3
SURVIVE Permanent Match, Pack of 5, The Forever Lighter, Emergency Fire Starter Striker Set, Metal Keychain Unlimited Waterproof Stick
  • CREATIVE UNIQUE LIGHTER. AMAZE FRIENDS AND FAMILY. Perfect gadget for...
  • SMALL AND EASY TO CARRY. Mini portable size: 2.4 x 0.75 x 0.63 inches,...
  • QUALITY DURABLE CONSTRUCTION. The container housing is made from tough...

2. Best Torch Lighters (Great For Campfires & Bad Weather)

Torch lighters are designed to create a more intense and hot flame than a standard lighter does, as you'll notice by it's bright blue flame.

It's similar to a blowtorch but not quite as powerful and is typically used in kitchens for cooking and baking, however...

They can be great for lighting campfires especially in bad weather because they are less affected by wind and rain and can burn quicker and hotter. 

So if you have the space and available weight to carry one then consider a torch option, here's one of the best torch lighter choices below...

Bestseller No. 1
Torch Lighters, 4 Pack, Butane Refillable Jet Flame Torch Lighter, Windproof, Safe, Multi Utility Lighter for Candles, Fireplaces, Campfires, Grill (Without Butane)
  • NOTE: FOR SAFETY , LIGHTER WILL BE SHIPPED UNFILLED.
  • Reliable&Safe, Child-Resistant Safety Mechanism and Safety Lock Which Keeps...
  • Refillable Torch Lighter, Easy to Refillable, Please Bleed the Air out...
SaleBestseller No. 2
Torch Lighters, 2 Pack, Butane Lighters, Adjustable Jet Flame Torch Lighters, Windproof Butane Refillable Gas Torch Lighter Long Lighter for Candle, Grill, BBQ, Fireworks(Butane Not Included) Black
  • 【WINDPROOF JET TORCH LIGHTERS】: This Turbo JET Flame Torch Lighter has...
  • 【SAFE AND DURABLE】: This Butane Lighter Nozzle with Copper Material was...
  • 【REFILLABLE&ADJUSTABLE TORCH LIGHTERS】: This Pen Torch Lighter is...
Bestseller No. 3
5 Pack Torch Lighter Mini Refillable Butane Lighters Single Jet Flame 45° Rotatable Torch Lighters Windproof Adjustable Butane Gas Lighter for Candle Camping Fireplace Party BBQ Grill(Without Fuel)
  • COST-EFFECTIVE 5 PACK - The mini size (3.7*0.9*1.3 in / 0.1 lb )make it...
  • SINGLE BLUE JET FLAME - The lighter can produce 2800°F blue jet flame....
  • REUSABLE - Unlike disposable lighters, our torch lighters can be refillable...

3. The Best EDC Lighters (Useful On A Day To Day Basis)

Even if you don't smoke then carrying a lighter for EDC can be useful from everything from burning receipts to lighting a cigarette for a pretty lady.

And one day it might just save your life if you ever need it. 

This PPFish Mini Brass Lighter below is a perfect example of one of the best lighters for EDC...

SaleBestseller No. 1
Torch Lighters, 2 Pack, Butane Lighters, Adjustable Jet Flame Torch Lighters, Windproof Butane Refillable Gas Torch Lighter Long Lighter for Candle, Grill, BBQ, Fireworks(Butane Not Included) Black
  • 【WINDPROOF JET TORCH LIGHTERS】: This Turbo JET Flame Torch Lighter has...
  • 【SAFE AND DURABLE】: This Butane Lighter Nozzle with Copper Material was...
  • 【REFILLABLE&ADJUSTABLE TORCH LIGHTERS】: This Pen Torch Lighter is...
Bestseller No. 2
TG Plasma Lighter Windproof Waterproof USB Rechargeable Flameless Dual Arc for EDC Camping Survival Tactical
  • Silicone Rubber Casing
  • Battery: Lithium Polymer, 220mAh - 2 Hour Charge Time
  • Power: .81Wh, 3.7V USB Rechargeable (cable included)
Bestseller No. 3
PPFISH Mini Brass Lighter - EDC Peanut Lighter Keychain - Waterproof Fire Starter Especially for Survival and Emergency Use
  • Superior Material - Made of H62 solid brass, sturdy and durable. CNC...
  • Satisfactory Sealing Performance - Super precision CNC cutting craft,...
  • Cool Design - Top Keychain design and mini size. This EDC lighter can be...

4. Best Rope Lighter (Aka Sheppard's Lighter or Sailors Lighter)

Rope lighters are known as several different names from Sheppard's to Sailors lighters and are designed to be windproof. 

You strike the sparkwheel which is attached to create the sparks which are caught on the attached rope and that lights the ember.

These are pretty interesting looking devices and you can see one for yourself below with this G2 Retro Rope Lighter...

Bestseller No. 1
Vintage Lighter Retro Trench Rattlesnake Rope Velvet Metal Lighter Fire Starter Camping Outdoors,No Need for Kerosene/Gas,#3
  • This mini lighter is convenient to carry anywhere(37.3g only),no need to...
  • It features high quality metal body and well-built interior structure and...
  • Usuage:just strike the attached flint wheel to create sparks, which are...
Bestseller No. 2
3PCS Windproof Rope Lighter Sailors Trench Vintage Lighter WWII Lighters Portable Survival Shepherds Lighter Outdoor Camping, No Need for Kerosene/Gas, Gifts Army Navy (Bronze, Silver, Gold)
  • Lightweight & Convenient: This mini rope lighter is convenient to carry...
  • How to use: just strike the attached flint wheel to create sparks, which...
  • This was typically used for lighting cigarettes which does not require a...
Bestseller No. 3
OLDENDO Vintage Metal Trench Lighter, Antique Windproof Rope Lighters, Portable Survival Shepherds Lighter Outdoor Camping (Silver)
  • High quality metal fuselage and good internal structure, do not produce...
  • Pull the cotton rope part out of the metal tube housing and strike the...
  • Blacken the end of the rope before using it to create a spark. If you want...

2. Best Tactical Lighters (Don't Go Into The Wild Without One)

This is the sort of lighter you use if you're venturing out into the wilderness and want to be guaranteed you have a heat source and something to cook with or even to draw attention to yourself in an emergency. 

You can see an example below with this TG Plasma Lighter...

Bestseller No. 1
TG Plasma Lighter Windproof Waterproof USB Rechargeable Flameless Dual Arc for EDC Camping Survival Tactical
  • Silicone Rubber Casing
  • Battery: Lithium Polymer, 220mAh - 2 Hour Charge Time
  • Power: .81Wh, 3.7V USB Rechargeable (cable included)
Bestseller No. 2
DOUBFIVSY Jet Torch Butane Lighter with Gift Box, Windproof Refillable Butane Lighter Adjustable Flame Lighters for Cigar Grill BBQ Candle Camping Kitchen Cooker(Butane Gas Not Included) (Brown)
  • 🔥【Refillable & Adjustable Flame】-- The butane torch lighter can...
  • 🔥【Powerful Flame & Windproof】-- The jet lighter adopted heat...
  • 🔥【Exquisite Gift】-- Lighter full metal casing is made of high...
Bestseller No. 3
2 Pack Waterproof Lighter for Outdoor, Windproof Torch Lighter, Dual Arc Butane Electric Lighter, USB Rechargeable, Flameless Plasma Lighter for Camping Hiking Adventure Survival Tactical Gear
  • 🏕️【WHAT YOU CAN GET】Package included: 1 usb ARC lighter + 1 butane...
  • 🌧【WATERPROOF & WINDPROOF】These 2 lighters are also built with...
  • 🔋【USB RECHARGABLE LIGHTER】The flameless dual-arc lighter is powered...

3. Best Grenade Lighter (They Just Look Cool!)

These are nothing more than novelty cigarette lights shaped to look like a grenade and whilst they could be used in survival and emergency situations they are more suited for every day use.

The Boaller Mini Model is a popular choice below to give you an example...

SaleBestseller No. 1
BOLLAER Permanent Match Lighter, Flint Fire Starter Keychain Lighter, Reusable Lighter for Camping Emergency Smoking Accessory Survival Gear
  • UNIQUE LIGHTER: This match lighter will benefit you greatly for any outdoor...
  • PERFECT DESIGN: This keychain is a perfect tool as it combines utility and...
  • EASY TO USE:Size 2 x 0.9inch, need to add a small amount of fuel...

4. Best Windproof Butane Lighter (Aka Stormproof Lighters)

Exactly as it sounds on the tin, a Butane filled lighter that aims to be windproof so no matter the weather (even a storm potentially) you can start a fire, stay warm, and cook.

They aren't the most aesthetic looking lighters but they are practical, check out this Worthington 336737 WT2301 Trigger Start model below... 

SaleBestseller No. 1
Torch Lighter, Refillable Butane Lighter with Lock, Windproof and Waterproof Adjustable Jet Flame Lighters, Fireplace Fireworks Grill Camping BBQ Lighter, Black(Without Gas)
  • 【Waterproof Lighter】The Jaerdhs butane lighter is built with rubber...
  • 【Windproof Jet Flame Lighter】 High-pressure jet flame with a...
  • 【Refillable Gas Lighter】Our outdoor lighters are repeatedly filled with...
SaleBestseller No. 2
Zippo 65827 Butane Lighter Insert - Double Torch, 1.4"L x 0.5"W x 2.1"Th
  • Genuine Zippo Single Torch Insert; Push-button piezo ignition
  • Adjustable blue flame height; Heats up to 2,300°F/ 1,260°C
  • Refillable with butane fuel; 0.9g fuel capacity
Bestseller No. 3
SAMNIU Torch Lighter, Waterproof, Windproof, refillable Butane Gas Lighters for Camping, Grill, BBQ, Fireworks
  • A Great Equipment: Samniu lighter can be refilled by butane gas but also...
  • Wind proof & Strong jet flame: It can easily generate high-pressure jet...
  • Refillable & Adjustable flame: The inner tank can be took out to refill...

5. Best Multi-tool Lighter (Double Your Lighter Up As A Bottle Opener or Knife)

A lighter that doubles up as a "multi-tool" with a sharp knife, a micro screwdriver and a bottle opener so at the very least you'll be able to stay warm AND open a beer...perfect!

This LighterBro Multi-tool model is a perfect example...

Bestseller No. 1
Gift for Men Women, AbeuRox Multitool Tactical Survival Gear with Lighter(No Fuel Include), Fishing Tool, Glass Breaker, Whistle, Blade, A Great EDC Kit, Camping Tool, Scouting Gear
  • This is a new concept Multitool, The first time we combine a Lighter,...
  • A nice tool to add to your EDC gadgets. It combines the most needed tools,...
  • Pocket size, convenient carrying, and handy to use. The cap plus the...
Bestseller No. 2
Survival Tool Fire Starter Emergency Light Carabiner Flashlight Multi Tool Screwdriver Whistle Bottle Opener Hiking Outdoor Father’s Day Gift For Dad Hunting Pocket Multi Use Stocking Stuffer
  • Be prepared for any outdoor adventure with our Outdoor Survival Light...
  • Made of high-quality, rust-resistant stainless steel, making it strong...
  • The carabiner allows you to easily attach to your backpack, belt loop, or...
SaleBestseller No. 3
LighterBro Stealth Black - Stainless Steel Sleeve to Transform Your Pocket Lighter - Lighter Case with Poker, Super Sharp Knife & Scissors, Bottle Opener, Screwdrivers, & Keychain Holder
  • TRANSFORM YOUR LIGHTER INTO A MULTITOOL MASTERPIECE: Our durable and...
  • FITS BOTH BIC AND CLIPPER LIGHTERS SEAMLESSLY: Save the time, space,...
  • IDEAL FOR A VARIETY OF ACTIVITIES: Our multi-tool lighter case is great for...

6. Best Vintage Trench Lighter (Carry a Classy Piece of History in your Pocket)

A trench lighter was created for soldiers in WW1 from spent bullet casings and scrap metal and were designed to be carried at all times so carrying one of these is not only a conversation starter but you'll be carrying a bit of history in your pocket. 

Check out this Yusud Vintage Trench Lighter for an idea of what these look like...

SaleBestseller No. 1
Pressure-Relief/Cool Lighter, Wheel Kerosene Lighter, Reusable Windproof Trench Lighter, Vintage Fine Copper Lighter, Classic Brass Lighter, Unique Birthday Gifts…
  • 🔥🔥🔥【Portable&Windproof】The antique lighter can be put in your...
  • 🔥🔥🔥【Multipurpose】It is suitable for hiking, fishing, dog...
  • 🔥🔥🔥【High-quality】 The classic brass lighter is spring-loaded,...
Bestseller No. 2
Laicengo Vintage Trench Lighter, Kerosene Copper Lighter, Windproof Brass Lighter for Men Dad Husband (Fuel Not Included), Glod
  • Creative Design: This Kerosene trench Lighter adopts nunchaku design, which...
  • Durability to last: With old-fashioned grinding whee, it has a high...
  • Portable and Easy Carry: This copper lighter is Slim and lightweight, as...
SaleBestseller No. 3
Handmade Trench Lighter WWI WWII Windproof Vintage Kerosene Pipe Lighter and Copper Brass Fuel Bottle, Gift for Men Dad Father Husband Grandparents
  • EDC of Military History: The vintage trench lighter was a military...
  • Durable: Body and shell of vintage lighter both made by copper solid brass,...
  • Great Keychain Lighter: This pipe lighter has a small size: 3.25"L x 0.85"W...

7. Best USB Electric Lighter (No Flame So Totally Weather Proof!)

A USB Electric lighter (also known as a "plasma lighter") is safer than a traditional lighter as it has no flame and instead uses electricity to light from the Tesla coil.

So if you're worried about burning the house down or your kids getting a hold of your lighter then this may be a good alternative.

Check out the REM Facio Lighter below to get a good idea of a better USB lighter model...

No products found.

8. Best Gun Lighter (The Classic Novelty Lighter)

These are the classic novelty lighters, the gun lighter. 

As you know it's simply a lighter shaped like a gun which means they aren't all that practical for carrying outside of the home as you don't want to be waving one around in public really.

This Morisk Torch lighter is a good example...

Bestseller No. 1
Torch Lighter, Mini Novel-Shape Design Butane Lighter, Creative Windproof Gas Lighter with Keychain, Cool Adjustable Jet Flame Lighter, Refillable Butane Lighter for Outdoor Indoor(Shiny Black)
  • 🔥【Exquisite Novel Shape Torch Lighter】This butane lighter design is...
  • 🔥【Adjustment Butane Flame Size】This torch lighter has an adjustment...
  • 🔥【Butane Refillable】This butane lighter with universal refill...
Bestseller No. 2
Lightsaber Lighter, Metal Gas Windproof Lighter, Ray Gun Torch, Jet Torch Lighter, Bright Fire Lighter Rechargeable, Barbecue Lighter, Outdoor Inflatable Lighter (Black)
  • 【Flexible and Durable】The Lightsaber Lighter features a 360° flexible...
  • 【Visible Butane Level】Equipped with a visible window, this windproof...
  • 【Adjustable Flame and Refillable】Featuring a flame regulating valve,...
SaleBestseller No. 3
Torch Lighter, Cool Novel Shape Design Butane Lighter, Creative Windproof Gas Lighter with Keychain, Mini Adjustable Jet Flame Lighter, Refillable Butane Lighter for Outdoor Indoor(Black)
  • 🔥【Exquisite Novel Shape Torch Lighter】This butane lighter design is...
  • 🔥【Adjustment Butane Flame Size】This torch lighter has an adjustment...
  • 🔥【Butane Refillable】This butane lighter with universal refill...

9. Best Backpacking Lighter (Light & Weatherproof)

Any backpacking lighter should be light, easy to carry, and wind-proof because for use in the wild it has to work when required or you risk your life.

The Waterproof USB Duak Arc Lighter below ticks most of the boxes for best backpacking lighters and there are other options too...

Bestseller No. 1
LcFun Waterproof Lighter Outdoor Windproof Dual Arc Electric Lighters USB Rechargeable-Flameless-Plasma Cool Lighters for Camping, Hiking, Adventure, Survival Tactical Gear (Black)
  • ❤️Waterproof Design: waterproof lighter, metal-ring sealed cover and...
  • ❤️Multipurpose: windproof and flameless, usb chargeable lighter, it is...
  • ❤️Economic & Eco-Friendly: build-in rechargeable lithium battery, usb...
Bestseller No. 2
Luxgaze 2 Pack Waterproof Lighter 360° Flexible Neck Rechargeable Arc Lighter Butane Torch Lighter Electric Lighters Flameless Plasma Outdoor Lighter Survival Tactical Gear Candle Camping Adventure
  • 🎯【2 PACK AFFORDABLE SURVIVAL LIGHTER】 - Versatile Rechargeable Arc...
  • 🌪️【IGNITE AT ANY ANGLE】- With an upgraded 360° bendable and...
  • 🔦【ARC LIGHTER WITH FLASHLIGHT】 - The arc lighter doubles as a...

10. Best Refillable Lighter (Never Get Caught Without Gas)

It's no use going to use your lighter and realising the gas has ran out and it can't be refilled, especially when you're out in the wild!

So choosing a refillable lighter, and being sure to carry the extra gas for it, is a smart move. 

SaleBestseller No. 1
Torch Lighters, 2 Pack, Butane Lighters, Adjustable Jet Flame Torch Lighters, Windproof Butane Refillable Gas Torch Lighter Long Lighter for Candle, Grill, BBQ, Fireworks(Butane Not Included) Black
  • 【WINDPROOF JET TORCH LIGHTERS】: This Turbo JET Flame Torch Lighter has...
  • 【SAFE AND DURABLE】: This Butane Lighter Nozzle with Copper Material was...
  • 【REFILLABLE&ADJUSTABLE TORCH LIGHTERS】: This Pen Torch Lighter is...
SaleBestseller No. 1
Zippo 200 Classic Brushed Chrome Pocket Lighter
  • Genuine Zippo windproof lighter with distinctive Zippo "click"
  • All metal construction; Windproof design works virtually anywhere
  • Refillable for a lifetime of use; For optimum performance, we recommend...

The Best Lighters For Every Day Carry (EDC), Survival, Backpacking and More

This is a selection of the best EDC, survival and backpacking lighters ranging from practical to unusual to downright weird that beat lugging around a box of matches that are prone to going soggy and blow out too easily in the wind.

Some are useful just for smokers, others for use in the wild, and others are more for novelty but if you're going to carry a lighter around, especially if you don't actually smoke and it's just for show, then at least pick an interesting conversation piece that'll catch peoples eye.

Though if you think you'll ever need it to light a fire or cook food then pick a sensible option that will work when required. 

SaleBestseller No. 1
BIC Multi-Purpose Utility Lighters, 4-Pack
  • One 4-pack of BIC Multi-purpose utility lighters, with assorted colors
  • The long durable metal wand on this multi purpose lighter helps keep...
  • Each stick lighter is child-resistant*, safe, reliable and 100% quality...
Bestseller No. 2
BIC Classic Lighters, Pocket Style, Lighter for Candles, Assorted Colors (Packaging May Vary), 10-Count Pack
  • Child-resistant, Safe and reliable, 100% Quality Inspected
  • Up to 2 times the lights vs. the next full size leading brand
  • Every BIC lighter undergoes more than 50 separate, automatic quality checks...
Bestseller No. 3
Electric Candle Lighter Plasma Arc Lighters Windproof & Flameless with USB Rechargeable Battery Double Safety Switch (Obisidian Black)
  • 【Plasma Flameless Arc Technology】- Revolutionary plasma flameless arc...
  • 【Efficient Ignition Method】- Comparing with traditional lighters and...
  • 【USB Rechargeable】- No need to refill the lighter ever! Built-in large...
SaleBestseller No. 5
BIC Multi-Purpose Classic and Flex Wand Candle Lighters, Assorted Colors, Reliable and Safe, For Fireplaces, Campfires and More, Utility Lighter, 4-Count
  • Every BIC lighter has passed more than 50 individual safety inspections to...
  • These utility lighters have a long durable metal wand keeps hands away from...
  • Candle lighters with a retractable hook for convenient storage

Last update on 2024-03-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API