You always hear about natural disasters, but never think it’s going to happen to you. That being said, if we asked you what you have in a case of emergency, you probably don’t have much. Maybe a can of beans? One flare?
Well, it’s never too late to prepare you and your family with a fully packed emergency kit. You may not be clear on what you actually need in your survival kit. Don’t worry, we’ll help through it. The first thing you want to start with is the best survival lighter you can get your hands on.
With a good lighter, you can solve a lot of your issues, such as heating. Especially when you’re in the great outdoors, you’ll need a lighter to help along the way. So, we’re going to give you a review of the finest survival lighters for your kit.
| Product Name | Weight | Size | Special Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zippo Chrome | 2.1 oz | 3 x 2 x 3 inches | Windproof, all metal, made in USA. | Check price on Amazon |
| GStar Torchzilla | 4 oz | 4.5 x 0.3 x 0.3 inches | Windproof, made in stainless steel, comes in different colors. | Check price on Amazon |
| Delta Windmill | 3.2 oz | 4 x 6 x 2 inches | Good for over 30,000 ignitions, made of stainless steel, withstands winds of 70-80 miles per hour. | Check price on Amazon |
| UST Trekker | 20 oz | 7 x 4 x 1 inches | Heavy-duty lighter with a fuel tank of 4g, can take up to 1,000 ignitions. | Check price on Amazon |
| Turboflame Ranger | 3 oz | n/a | Windproof, comes with a lanyard. | Check price on Amazon |
| UST Stormproof | 0.8 oz | 2.6 x 1.6 x 0.5 inches | It floats, withstands winds up to 80 miles per hour. | Check price on Amazon |
| Tesla Coil | 4.8 oz | n/a | Electric, with a rechargeable USB, a charge lasts up to a week, and windproof. | Check price on Amazon |
Features to Consider Before Buying
Don’t choose a lighter based on how it looks. You need one that serves its purpose and that is to help you survive. So, you need to look at the features, your survival lighter will provide to you.
Waterproof
Doesn’t sound like this could be possible, however, you’re wrong. The waterproof feature allows the lighter to get wet still function. The lighter has a protective sealant, which prevents water from going in and lighter fluid from going out.
This is ideal if you’ll be using it while outdoors. But honestly, this should be a must-have feature on your survival lighter as you never know what can happen.
Windrpoof
Are you worried about your flame going out even with the slightest of breezes? If you need light during an emergency, you want it to be able to withstand wind, especially if you’re outdoors facing the elements. Windproof means that the flame will not extinguish during harsh conditions. Most of the windproof lighters on the market can withstand winds up to 80 mph.
Portability
You want a lighter that won’t weigh a ton so that it can be kept in your pocket. If you’re using this while outdoors, you don’t want it to slow you down, so make sure your lighter is lightweight and compact.
Also, one that has a cover can help in preventing accidental leaks or fires. You can find lighters that weigh only a few ounces.
Durability
Because it’s a survival lighter, it has to be able to handle rough handling. If it falls, you don’t want it to break or else you’ll have another problem on your hands. So make sure you look for a lighter that is made of industrial-grade stainless steel. Usually, lighters that cost a little more are made with higher quality materials so it’s worth the investment.
Refillable
This is a nice feature to have, but not all lighters will have this. It’s definitely convenient, if anything. Refillables allow you to refuel, whereas other lighters must be disposed of.
There are also other lighters that simply need a USB cord to charge, but they’re pricier than the average survival lighter.
Hands Free
Again, not a feature that comes with every lighter, but it’s a nice one to have. These are ideal for starting fires because they can be their own heat source, thus, leaving your hands free. So, if you need light, but also need to use your hands, opt for a hands-free lighter.
Now that you know the features you should be looking for, you need to know the types of survival lighters that are available on the market.
Top Products on the Market
Zippo Chrome 
Price: Approx. $16
Weight: 2.1 ounces
Dimensions: 3 x 2 x 3 inches
Specific features: Windproof with “Zippo click”, all metal construction, made in USA.
Best use: Survival and outdoor
Description: Zippo wanted to keep the Zippo Chrome Lighters classic, however, jazz it up with a chrome finish to give it a more modern look. The directional brushing gives the zippo lighter a creative pattern while still keeping it keeping to the traditional look.
The lighter is windproof with the distinctive Zippo “click”. It’s refillable for a lifetime of use and works optimally with premium Zippo lighter fluid, flints, and wicks. It’s USA made and comes with a lifetime guarantee, so if your lighter has any problems, Zippo will fix it for you regardless of when you purchased it. Zippo is one of the toughest lighter brands on the market, so this one will be able to last through any situation.
Plus, it comes in different sizes and weights, allowing you to choose between a more pocket friendly lighter, or one that you feel the weight. They all have a lifetime warranty.
PROS:
- Durable and reliable
- Different sizes and weights
CONS:
- Metal shows smear over time
- Case is not that strong
Related: For any Zippo lighter, it’s a good idea to buy as well the Zippo B01BIOF Lighter Fluid, that way whenever you need to refill it, you just use the branded liquid and in a few minutes you’re ready.
Gstar Torchzilla 
Price: Approx. $7
Weight: 4 ounces
Dimensions: 4.5 x 0.3 x 0.3 inches
Specific features: Windproof, made in stainless steel, comes in different colors.
Best use: Survival and outdoor
Description: The GStar TorchZilla Torch Lighter is a pocket torch lighter that produces a sleek blue flame that can be used for just about anything. The lighter is waterproof and windproof, so, if you’re needing to use it during a storm, it’ll be able to withstand the harsh weather.
It comes in 4 colors: blue, purple, silver, and stainless steel. It’s also easy-to-use and safe, as it passed the U.S. CPSC Child Safety Compliant regulations. The great feature of the TorchZilla is that it’s larger than your average lighters, however, can easily fit into any pocket.
It’s important not to use the flame adjustment dial when the lighter is on, always adjust the flame only when the torch is off. So, your emergency kit will be able to pack more supplies as this doesn’t take up much room. This lighter is a registered trademark, so you will only be able to purchase this lighter through authorized sellers.
PROS:
- Cheap
- Easy to use
- Size
CONS:
- Not very easy to refill
Related: A good add-on for this lighter, is the Zippo Butane Fuel. It works perfectly with any lighter and it will not clog the burner valves.
Delta Windmill 
Price: Approx. $60
Weight: 3.2 ounces
Dimensions: 4 x 6 x 2 inches
Specific features: Good for over 30,000 ignitions, made of stainless steel, withstands winds of 70-80 miles per hour.
Best use: Survival and outdoor
Description: The Delta Windmill Stormproof Lighter is another highly reputable lighter that is exceptional for survival use. Delta focuses on producing equipment that is designed for outdoor and survival needs.
That being said, this lighter is no joke. It can withstand 70-80 mph winds while still burning, which is frankly incredible, barely any other lighter has this feature, and that comes extremely handy if you’re camping in higher grounds where there are strong winds.
The Piezo-Electric Ignition system in the lighter allows over 30,000 ignitions, while the elastomer cover protects it from external wear and tear. The stainless steel wire closure and o-seal ring prevent any water from entering nor any fuel from leaving.
Though it’s lightweight, don’t be fooled, it can hold 1g of fuel, which will be able to support you in any situation. It also comes with a two-year limited warranty, in case you need to repair it due to any defects.
PROS:
- Extremely reliable when there is strong wind
CONS:
- Expensive
- Low quality materials
- Won’t properly take butane
Related: The Windmill Delta, is commonly bought together with the KGM Vector Butane Gas tube to refill the lighter when you’re out of fluid.
Ust Trekker 
Price: Approx. $60
Weight: 20 ounces
Dimensions: 7 x 4 x 1 inches
Specific features: Heavy-duty lighter with a fuel tank of 4g, can take up to 1,000 ignitions before refill.
Best use: Survival and outdoor
Description: The UST Trekker Stormproof Lighter is a heavy-duty lighter that comes with an extra-large fuel tank that can hold 4g of fuel. The tank can provide you with 1,000 ignitions before it needs a refill – a great long-lasting feature. The Piezo-electric ignitions allow the Trekker to lighter up over 30,000 times and can handle any weather condition it’s placed in.
The easy grip rubberized case makes it pretty comfortable for handling, as well as having a small string tied to it in case you need to tie it to something else.
This lighter is also stormproof and can withstand winds up to 80 mph while still holding a flame. The rubberized case is easy to hold and resistant to dents and scratches. The stainless steel wire closure and o-ring seal prevent and water from entering the lighter and any fuel from leaving. This lighter is ideal if you’re planning to use it outdoors or during emergencies, as it’s built to last.
PROS:
- Windproof
- Doesn’t need constant refills
CONS:
- Expensive
- Not very good materials
Related: If you’re going on a camping trip you might need or want more than a survival lighter. The Ka Bar BK11 Neck Knife is a suitable add-on at a good price and good quality that might come in handy in many different occasions.
Turboflame Ranger 
Price: n/a
Weight: 3 ounces
Dimensions: n/a
Specific features: Windproof, comes with a lanyard
Best use: Survival and outdoor
Description: If you’re looking for a lighter that will be able to handle the great outdoors, this is another great option that you should consider. The Turboflame Ranger is a windproof lighter that comes with double-power jet flames that can reach temperatures of 13000 oc.
If you’re forgetful of when you last refilled your lighter, this one comes with a gas level indicator that’ll let you know when you’re running low. It also comes with a lanyard attachment and a safety cap.
The technology used in the Turboflame Ranger gives the lighter the ability to melt through synthetic materials without depositing black carbon – so you don’t have to worry about your equipment turning black.
This lighter is great if you’ll be outdoors as it can help you seal and repair ropes, boats, and remove rust. It can also work in altitudes of 3000 meters, which is another great feature if you’ll be hiking or mountaineering.
PROS:
- Windproof
- Works in altitudes over 3000 meters
- Gas level indicator
CONS:
- None
Related: So, there’s nothing exactly like the Turboflame Vflame, however, many people opt for having a plan B, and that’s where the UCO Titan Stormproof Matches come into play. They can be used in case the lighter isn’t working or runs out of liquid while you’re on your trip.
Ust Stormproof 
Price: Approx. $18
Weight: 0.8 ounces
Dimensions: 2.6 x 1.6 x 0.5 inches
Specific features: Floats, withstands winds up to 80 miles per hour.
Best use: Survival and outdoor
Description: If you’re going to be out in open water, you never know what could happen. That being said, you want a lighter that’ll be waterproof and water resistant.
But, what if you drop it in the river? Well, we recommend you consider the UST Stormproof Floating Lighter. Not only is it resistant to water, but it’ll float up to the surface so you’ll be able to easily retrieve it.
The catalyzer coil produces temperatures up to 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit and can withstand winds up to 80 mph. The Piezo-electric ignition will guarantee a flame every time it’s sparked and also comes with a flame indicator to show when the lighter is ignited.
The outer case is made of waterproof, ABS plastic and the o-ring seal ensures that no water enters and no fuel leaves the lighter. A great and reliable option if you’ll be in water or in rainy conditions.
PROS:
- Floats
- Good price
- Easy to fill
CONS:
- Not made with the best materials
Related: The UST floating lighter is a great lighter. There are other floating lighters on the market, but UST is a reputable company with long-lasting products. If you wanted a lighter that if lost in the dark, you’ll be able to see – the UST Glow Floating Lighter is an option. It’s basically the same lighter at the UST floating lighter, but just with a glow-in-the-dark finish.
Tesla Coil 
Price: Approx. $14
Weight: 4.8 ounces
Dimensions: n/a
Specific features: Comes with a rechargeable USB (very Tesla), windproof, a full charge lasts a week.
Best use: Survival and outdoor
Description: The Tesla Coil Arc Lighter is different from other lighters on the market as it’s USB Rechargeable, a cool feature to have. The lighter doesn’t create a flame, but rather work by making an electric arc, so you won’t have to buy butane since it’s flameless. This design is also windproof because there’s no flame, so it’s actually one of the few reliable windproof lighters, and it has fantastic reviews regarding this feature.
To charge the lighter, you simply connect it to your USB and plug it into your car, computer or any USB port. It’s very safe and reliable and will not accidentally turn if it’s not in use. If you charge your lighter fully, it’ll last up to a week or 100-300 uses.
It’s a great option is you want something highly reliable and low-maintenance. It’s also economically and environmentally friendly. The lighter also comes with a standard 1-year manufacturer’s warranty.
PROS:
- Electric and rechargeable
- Windproof
- Great price
- Durable and reliable
CONS:
- Not as fast at lighting cigarettes
Related: The great advantage of the Tesla does not need any fuel, but you might want to protect it. The Unigear Compact Cell Phone Holster is ideal for comfortably carrying your lighter and protecting it from scratches or getting hit.
Wrapping It Up
If you’re looking for the best survival lighter, look no further. We’ve shown you must-have features you need to look for as well as the different types of lighters available on the market. So, simply look at why you need a survival lighter and you’ll be able to find a survival lighter that perfectly fits your needs.
Above, we gave you a review of the 7 best survival lighters currently on the market. So, head to an outdoor equipment store and give try these options out.
The G-Star TorchZilla is a great little torch that holds a good amount of fuel. I had higher-priced bigger torches that performed less than this lighter. It puts out a hot flame that can light up even slightly damp tinder and kindling materials. I highly recommend this lighter as an addition to your survival kit and as a back up to your metal fire starter and waterproof matches.
I have used the UST Stormproof Floating Lighter during a windy snow day and it still gave a good, strong flame. Maybe this is also because I used high quality butane in it. This lighter is also sturdy. I left it inside my pants and it still worked despite being inside a washing machine and dryer for more than 15 minutes!
Hi Judy and thanks for this good review of the the G-Star TorchZilla. This is an excellent brand and is very popular with outdoor enthusiasts. It’s compact and doesn’t take up much space in your backpack.
What I love about it – waterproof and windproof! Looks attractive and comes in 4 colors, too.
Now you know the floating lighter really works, right? It’s a great brand and although not as low priced as some lighters, its stellar features make up for it. Waterproof and water resistant, it’s reliable and will always work, no matter how bad the weather is. The wind-proof feature is a commendable feature, too.