One of the greatest adversaries a camper faces in the wild is the unpredictable weather. Always bring with you packs of waterproof matches to prepare for Mother Nature's sudden showers. These trusty fire sticks are not faced by the rain and will light up your campsite to bring you warmth and a hot meal. What are the best waterproof matches to get, anyway?
We've researched the top waterproof matches in Amazon and came up with this detailed list, plus a buying guide with pointers and suggestions for your purchase. Our top favorite waterproof match is UCO's Stormproof Match Kit for its long burn time and waterproof case. Take a look at the other products that made it to our top 8 list to find the matches for your next camping trip!
Quick List - Top Waterproof Matches
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For first-timers, finding the perfect waterproof matches can get confusing. When shopping, think about where you plan to use them, and everything else will follow! Take a look at the buying guide below filled with handy suggestions.
The main difference between a waterproof and a regular match is the composition of the tip. Waterproof matches have an extra layer of protection on their tips to keep moisture out.
The first factors to keep in mind when buying waterproof matchsticks are the burn time and striking surface quality. Matches, whether waterproof or regular, have an average burn time of fewer than 10 seconds.
However, there are long-burning matches that can last up to 20 seconds. If you plan to bring your matchsticks on camping trips, go for long-burning ones to deal with the damp kindling at campsites on rainy days.
Next, make sure that the striking surface, the patch of rough texture used to light the match, is high-quality and does not wear out quickly. High-quality strikers are thick and do not tear easily.
It is important to remember that the striking surface is not waterproof and will be unusable when wet. We recommend getting striking surfaces that are concealed or storing them in waterproof containers.
When purchasing waterproof matches, another point to consider is the matchstick length. Here, you can think about where and what you plan to use the matches for. Are you planning to place them in your survival pouch, or are they for your camping trip?
You can pick among the three matchstick lengths: short, regular, and extra-long. Short matchsticks are around one to two inches long and not that common in waterproof form. Regular matchsticks have a length of about two to three inches long and are used for starting campfires and igniting camping stoves.
Lastly, at about nine to 12 inches, extra-long matchsticks are used primarily for wood stoves and fireplaces. The longest waterproof ones you'll find are generally four inches long. These are great for survival situations or when you need extra burn time and reach.
Another factor worth looking into is the container’s material. The majority of waterproof matches come in either cardboard or plastic containers. Ordinary cardboard boxes are less sturdy than plastic containers, but they are easy to store and usually hold more matchsticks due to the thinner matches used.
Plastic containers are waterproof and won’t soak up moisture, however, they can get bulky and hold fewer matchsticks. Matches used for plastic containers are usually longer and thicker. Go for waterproof plastic containers for outdoor activities and cardboard ones to keep at home for emergencies.
Apart from the rain, the wind is also a great adversary when lighting matches. Waterproof matches are even better when they are also windproof. Windproof matches stay lit even during harsh winds!
Not all waterproof matchsticks have this feature, so make sure it's clearly listed on the product. If you’re not expecting windy conditions, you can opt for waterproof matches alone.
Some waterproof matches come with backup strikers for emergencies. Purchasing a set with extra strikers will save you the trouble of looking for rough surfaces to light your matchsticks.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | UCO Stormproof Match Kit | ![]() | Waterproof Matches in a Durable Container | |
2 | Zippo Typhoon Match Kit | ![]() | Easy-Storing, Long-Burning Matches for Survival Kits | |
3 | Coghlans Waterproof Matches|10 pack | ![]() | Pocket Size Matchboxes Ideal for Fishing and Hunting | |
4 | UCO Stormproof Matches | ![]() | Compact Waterproof Matches With Extra Strikers | |
5 | Coghlan's Windproof Storm Matches | ![]() | Waterproof Matches in a See-Through Container | |
6 | UCO Waterproof Safety Matches|4 pack | ![]() | Waterproof Safety Matches | |
7 | eGreen Emergency Fire Starter | ![]() | Fire Starter Kit With Waterproof Matches and Magnesium Bags | |
8 | Coleman Waterproof Matches|4 pack | ![]() | Matchsticks With Large Match Heads for Easy Lighting |
These waterproof matches have a length of almost three inches and a burn time of 15 seconds! Even after being fully submerged in water, they can still be lit. The product comes in a heavy-duty, waterproof plastic case with a built-in striker. You get three strikers with each purchase.
Many reviewers did not like the striker and said that it wore out if it got wet. But, the majority of contented buyers loved the thickness of the matchsticks and the durable container. Many campers vouched that these matches were hard to put out, making them a must-have survival tool!
Are you looking for matches you can easily hook to your backpack? This water-resistant container holds 15 waterproof matches and comes with an attachment hole for easy hanging. These matchsticks are also windproof and will stay lit for up to 30 seconds, even under harsh weather conditions!
People who were looking for compact, thin matchsticks were not impressed with the size of these matches. Some buyers found the matchsticks and container a bit too bulky.
Other than that, the majority of reviewers liked the durable container and intense flames of the matches. They say they're great for emergency kits because they're jumbo-sized.
If you're looking for enough matchsticks to keep some everywhere, go for Coghlan's pack of 10 matchboxes with 40 matchsticks per box for a total of 400 matchsticks! The striker and match heads are waterproof, and the boxes are pocket-sized and great for camping, fishing, and hunting.
A few buyers said that the matches were brittle and broke easily. Some people also did not like the striker's quality and said it took multiple tries to light. Meanwhile, satisfied customers liked the versatile uses and that they had enough for their car, camping equipment, go bag, and more.
This pack of waterproof and windproof matches is compact and easy to store. A box contains 25 matchsticks that burn for around 15 seconds. These are great to have for survival kits and emergency bags! Conveniently, you get two extra strikers with each purchase.
Multiple reviewers warn of smoke and a strong sulfuric smell when the matches are lit, so be aware of that if you need to light them indoors. On the bright side, these matches light up easily with a few strikes. Reviewers were happy with the durable quality of the matchsticks.
Coghlan's Windproof Storm Matches are ideal for backpacking and camping. You get 20 waterproof matches that come in a clear plastic container. Shut the container tightly, and not a single drop of water can seep through! The match heads last for about 10 seconds. Two striker surfaces are included in each purchase.
Buyers did not like that the matches tended to snap easily when lighting. Other than that, reviewers liked the case's compactness because it could fit in emergency and camping bags. Campers liked to used the matches to light bonfires and said they lit up even on damp, rainy days!
These waterproof safety matches are great for lighting grills for barbecues, kitchen use, and emergency kits. Each pack has 40 matchsticks for a total of 160 matches, and comes in a water-resistant box with attached strikers.
Customers complained the wood of the matchsticks broke easily. Meanwhile, satisfied customers liked the intensity of the flames. Buyers also tested the product's waterproof features and were content with the results! These matchsticks light up even after getting wet.
This fire starter kit comes with 18 waterproof and windproof matchsticks plus six bags of shredded magnesium, the lightest-weight fire starter. All products come in a tin container. The matchsticks are stored in a plastic container that easily fits in the tin box.
Some reviewers did not like the striker's quality and said that it looked very flimsy. Apart from that, buyers liked the resealable magnesium bags and the ease of use of the kit. Reviewers also liked the flame's intensity.
You might know the brand Coleman for their camping gear, which conveniently also includes waterproof matches! Each box contains 40 waterproof matches with jumbo-sized match heads. You get a total of 160 matches. The strikers on either side of the box are also water-resistant.
Many buyers struggled with lighting these matchsticks and sometimes were left with broken ones instead. People wished the matches were a bit more durable. Past this, reviewers were happy that the matches still worked after getting a bit wet.
Whether you're going to rough it for a few days in the wilderness, or you want to be ready in case the power goes out, we've got some ideas for what equipment you need.
No. 1: UCO|Stormproof Match Kit
No. 2: Zippo|Typhoon Match Kit
No. 3: Coghlans|Waterproof Matches|10 pack
No. 4: UCO|Stormproof Matches
No. 5: Coghlan's|Windproof Storm Matches
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