As someone who’s spent over a decade guiding trips and writing about the outdoors, I can tell you that reliable fire starting is the cornerstone of any successful adventure. And when conditions turn sour – rain, snow, humidity – your standard matches can quickly become useless. That’s why knowing how to waterproof matches is a critical skill. Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker, a weekend camper, or an outdoor industry professional, ensuring you can get a flame going is paramount. This guide will cover everything from the best waterproof matches available to DIY methods and best practices for keeping your fire-starting kit ready for anything. We’ll also discuss why a multi-faceted approach to fire starting is always the smartest strategy.
It seems simple, right? Matches light things on fire. But moisture is a match’s enemy. Even a little dampness can render the striking surface ineffective, or prevent the match head from igniting. In a survival situation, or even just a chilly evening at the campsite, a failed fire attempt can be more than just an inconvenience – it can be dangerous. Hypothermia is a real threat, and a fire provides warmth, a way to purify water, cook food, and signal for help. The National Park Service emphasizes preparedness as a key component of wilderness safety, and a reliable fire starter is a non-negotiable item on their recommended gear lists.
I’ve seen too many people head into the backcountry with only one way to start a fire. That’s a gamble you don’t want to take. What happens if your lighter runs out of fluid? Or your ferro rod gets lost? Having multiple redundant systems is crucial. Waterproof matches should be part of that system, but not the only system. Consider also carrying a butane lighter, a ferrocerium rod (“ferro rod”), and even a magnifying glass. Redundancy equals reliability.
The market offers several excellent commercially produced best waterproof matches. Here’s a breakdown of some top contenders:
| Match Type | Waterproof Rating | Burn Time | Price (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| UCO Stormproof | Excellent | 15 seconds | $10-15 |
| Strike-Anywhere Waterproof | Good | 8 seconds | $5-10 |
| Esbit Waterproof | Good | 10 seconds | $8-12 |
If you’re on a budget or prefer a more hands-on approach, you can effectively waterproof matches yourself. Here are a few proven methods:
This is a classic and highly effective technique. You’ll need:
Instructions: Melt the paraffin wax in a double boiler. Dip each match completely into the melted wax, ensuring it’s fully coated. Remove the match and let the wax harden. Repeat for all matches. Store in a waterproof container. I’ve found that adding a small amount of beeswax to the paraffin wax makes the coating more durable.
A surprisingly effective method, especially for a quick fix. Simply coat the match head and a portion of the wooden shaft with several layers of clear nail polish. Allow each layer to dry completely before applying the next. This creates a waterproof barrier. While not as durable as wax dipping, it’s a convenient option when you’re in a pinch.
This isn’t strictly waterproofing the matches themselves, but it creates a highly flammable tinder bundle that will ignite even damp matches. Coat cotton balls in Vaseline (petroleum jelly) and store them in a waterproof bag with your matches. The Vaseline acts as a fuel source, extending the burn time and making ignition easier. This is a technique I often teach in my wilderness survival workshops.
Waterproofing your matches is only half the battle. Proper storage is equally important. Here are some tips:
Even with waterproof matches, successful fire starting requires technique. Here’s what I tell my clients:
Not all tinder is created equal. The USDA Forest Service provides excellent resources on identifying and gathering natural tinder. Fatwood (pine wood saturated with resin) is an exceptional natural tinder, but it requires some knowledge to identify. Prepared tinder, like commercially available fire starters, can be a reliable alternative.
Finally, remember to practice Leave No Trace principles when building a fire. (Leave No Trace is a vital organization dedicated to minimizing our impact on the outdoors.) Build your fire in an established fire ring or on a fire pan. Keep the fire small and contained. Burn all wood to ash and completely extinguish the fire before leaving. Pack out any unburned materials.
Mastering how to waterproof matches is a valuable skill for any outdoor enthusiast. Combined with proper storage, fire-starting technique, and a commitment to Leave No Trace principles, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy safe and rewarding adventures in the great outdoors. Don't forget to check out my other articles on Backcountry Cooking and Wilderness First Aid for more essential outdoor skills!