The best camping fire kits for camping in NSW

Campfires are always a part of any good camping trip. In fact, they’re one of the main reasons we love camping. They can keep you warm, provide light, and make for the world’s best conversation starter. But fires can also be a hassle, not to mention dangerous in certain conditions. So whether you’re an experienced camper or someone who’s never built a campfire before, you might want to consider a portable fire pit for your next adventure. If you’re wondering how to get started with fire pits and what you need to look out for, we’ve compiled the most important tips for picking the camping fire pit that’s right for you

The Joys Of Camping

Camping is one of the best ways to reconnect with nature. It’s a great way for friends and families to bond and make memories that will last a lifetime. It is a great way to get in touch with your inner self, your friends, and the natural world around you!

And one of the best things about camping is that it gives you a chance to make a fire to gather around, cook over and roll out some of your delicious campfire recipes. After dinner everyone relaxes around the warm glow, telling stories and enjoying nature at night.

Camping can be a fun and relaxing experience but, as the boy scouts always say, you need to be prepared. Beyond the obvious like a tent, sleeping bag, food, camp stove and outdoor clothes and shoes, there is something that you really need that you probably may not have considered.

Yes, we’re talking about the everyday camping luxury provided by your very own portable fire pit!

Do You Really Need a Camping Fire Pit?

Since the dawn of civilisation humans have found happiness and community by sitting together around a fire. It’s a part of us and part of our DNA that cannot be denied. As we’ve said, campfires are a great way to bond with friends and family whilst sitting around the flames telling stories and setting the mood for a fun night. But, as with many things in life, there’s also a downside. Camp fires can be dangerous and a hassle to get (or keep) going at a time when you’d rather be enjoying a snag and a beer. In the most extreme, there is nothing that is going to ruin the tranquility of your time in nature than an out of control fire. So, when you weigh up all of the options, a portable camping fire pit might be just the answer to the fun, convenience and safety you need on your next holiday in paradise.

The modern camping fire pits that are available these days are easy to use, safer than open fires and also look super cool. They give you the joy of a natural fire without a lot of the complications associated with building your own pit from stuff you find lying around your campsite.

How to Find the Perfect Campfire Pit Design

There are many different types of fire pits available in the market and they can range dramatically in price, design and, importantly, fuel efficiency. The most expensive or biggest does not necessarily guarantee the most heat or most efficient use of resources. Also, what pit is best is often specific to the needs and application of each camper's requirements and the location that the pit will be used. It sounds complicated but it isn’t really and below we will go through the most important considerations.

What To Look For When Buying A Camping Fire Pit

When you are looking for a portable camping fire pit you should consider the following:

The Size of the Fire Pit

The size of the fire pit is important to consider. Bigger can be better if you have a large group but can also be overpowering if it’s just two of you. Think about how many people you will be camping with. Huge fire pits are not so great in crowded campgrounds but are awesome if you’re way out in the bush, so consider where you’ll be camping as well. Also, big pits use more fuel so keep that in mind.

The Type Of Fuel that the Pit Uses

The type of fuel that is used to fuel the fire can vary between fire pits. For most pits the type of fuel is a combustible material such as wood, gas, coal or ethanol. Different fuels have different pros and cons but most people are usually drawn to wood for emotional reasons. However, it’s important to consider if you have access to abundant dry wood at your campsite. If not, can you carry enough wood with you? If you don’t have access to timber in nature perhaps coal, gas or ethanol are better options. They are easy to use and also compact to transport. Finally different fuel types vary in price so, if that’s a consideration for you, check how much fuel you will use per hour (ask the pit retailer for the specifications) and the cost of that fuel so you don’t get a rude shock later.

The Type of Material the Pit is Made From

The most common and popular material for a portable fire pit is steel. It’s tough and durable and not too heavy to transport. On the downside, it rusts, which may or may not be an issue for you and it doesn’t hold the heat as well due to lack of insulation. Ceramic is an option if steel is not to your liking. It can be quite durable, does not have the rust issues and therefore is a bit cleaner to transport. Due to its insulation properties it holds the heat well but can be damaged if dropped or allowed to heat up too quickly.

How Easy is it to Transport & Store the Camping Fire Pit?

Portable fire pits are great for when you need to transport your fire pit to your camping destination. Depending on the model they can break down for transport and storage. If this is important to you make sure the model you buy is able to be at least partially disassembled.

How Much Time Does It Take to Set-up a Camping Fire Pit?

Some camping fire pit models can take time to either set-up or heat up. Ceramic units should not be heated as quickly as steel and take a bit longer, and a little patience, to get going. Some units are fully self-contained and need no assembly, you just plonk them on the ground and load them with fuel. Some small metal models require a bit of time to set-up which some may think is eating into their valuable relaxation time. All things to consider when purchasing your pit.

Safety First

Camping may well not be complete without a campfire but when you’re camping in the wilderness, you need to be mindful of the safety precautions, particularly when it comes to fires. With or without a fire pit you are still “playing with fire” and it’s your responsibility to keep it under control at all times. It’s kind of like driving a car or a boat where you’re the captain and everyone's safety is in your hands.

Make sure you always set-up your pit in a safe space and make sure it is far enough away from any combustible items or vegetation. Always ensure any young children are monitored at all times and remember to keep a sober head so that you can anticipate any issues before they arise. And always check for fire bans.

The 6 Best Camping Fire Pits and How They Compare

Below are our picks for six of the best fire pits currently available for sale. We've taken into account customer reviews, ratings, features, and price and given you the best options based on your usage needs:

When you need something super portable...

1. Fireside Portable Popup Fire Pit