How to Make a Lasting Firestarter

Happy Campers love to go camping, and we love s'mores even more! For those delicious s'mores you need a campfire. This camping hack kicks off the fire and keeps it HOT so the fire will last for hours.

Whether you're planning your first RV adventure or you're a seasoned camper, having reliable fire starters can make or break your outdoor experience. This simple DIY method uses common household items to create long-lasting fire starters that are perfect for any camping trip.

What You'll Need

Gather these simple materials before you start:

• 1 empty paper egg carton (paper only - no plastic or styrofoam)
• 1 bag of charcoal fire starters
• 1 empty paper towel roll
• A handful of dryer lint

These materials are inexpensive and you probably already have most of them at home. The best part? You'll be recycling items that would otherwise go in the trash.

Step 1: Prepare Your Empty Egg Carton

Take out all the eggs from your egg carton. If you already have an empty carton, you're ready to move forward.

Important: Make sure it is a paper egg carton. Plastic and styrofoam will just melt around the charcoal and the hack will not work. Paper cartons are biodegradable and burn cleanly, making them ideal for this project.

Step 2: Fill the Egg Carton with Fire Starters

Place one charcoal fire starter in each compartment where the eggs were. The egg carton creates perfect individual sections that keep each fire starter separated and protected.

This design allows you to break off individual fire starters as needed, so you don't have to use the entire carton at once. It's perfect for multiple camping trips with your RV rental.

Step 3: Create Dryer Lint Fire Starters

Fill the empty paper towel roll with dryer lint. This often-overlooked material is highly flammable and makes an excellent fire starter.

Make sure the dryer lint is spaced out inside the roll. This will ensure there is a little bit of oxygen in the roll, which helps it catch fire quickly and burn longer.

Why Dryer Lint Works So Well

Dryer lint is made up of tiny fabric fibers that ignite easily and burn hot. Combined with the paper towel roll, it creates a sustained flame that gives your firewood plenty of time to catch.

Step 4: Setup Fire Starters in Your Fire Pit

Place the fire starters in the middle of the fire pit with room for the firewood around them. Position them so they have good airflow from all sides.

If you're camping at one of Oregon's beautiful state parks, make sure to check their specific fire regulations before starting your campfire. Many campgrounds have designated fire rings that work perfectly with this method.

Step 5: Arrange Your Firewood and Light

Setup the firewood around your fire starters. We've stacked this one in a cone or teepee style, which is one of the most effective configurations for getting a fire started quickly.

Other Firewood Arrangements

You can also set up your firewood in other configurations depending on your needs:

• Log cabin style: Great for a long-lasting, steady burn
• Pyramid style: Provides excellent heat for cooking
• Lean-to style: Works well in windy conditions

Learn more about different campfire building techniques from REI's expert guide.

Once your wood is arranged, simply light the paper towel roll and egg carton fire starters. They'll burn long enough to get even damp wood started.

Step 6: Enjoy Your Campfire!

Kick back and enjoy your campfire! These homemade fire starters will burn hot and long, giving you plenty of time to roast marshmallows and make those perfect s'mores.

The combination of charcoal starters and dryer lint creates a sustained burn that can last for hours with proper wood management. This means less time fussing with the fire and more time enjoying the outdoors.

Campfire Safety Tips

Always practice safe campfire habits:

• Never leave a fire unattended
• Keep water or sand nearby for emergencies
• Check local fire restrictions before starting any fire
• Completely extinguish fires before leaving or going to sleep
• Keep fires at a manageable size

For more outdoor safety information, visit the U.S. Forest Service fire safety guidelines.

Ready for Your Next Camping Adventure?

Now that you know how to make lasting fire starters, you're ready for an amazing camping experience. Whether you're exploring the Oregon Coast, the Cascade Mountains, or any of the Pacific Northwest's incredible destinations, our RV rentals provide the perfect home base for your adventures.

These DIY fire starters are just one of many camping hacks that can enhance your outdoor experience. Pack a few batches before your trip, and you'll always be prepared for cozy campfire evenings.

Ready to hit the road? Contact Happy Campers RV Rentals today to book your next adventure. We'll help you find the perfect RV for your camping needs, whether you're planning a weekend getaway or an extended road trip.

Watch the full video tutorial above to see this fire starter hack in action, and don't forget to share your camping experiences with us!