Comments on: To NOT build a fire

By: Paul Mags

Paul Mags — Fri, 18 Jun 2021 14:25:58 +0000

In reply to Chad. That is good to know. thanks!

By: Chad

Chad — Fri, 18 Jun 2021 14:17:28 +0000

Another tool for the argument arsenal is our own elite fighting force, the Navy SEALs, don’t even recommend fires for rewarming after an icy plunge in cold water. It’s too impractical and life threatening. Instead they go with what you mentioned above–adding layers, getting in your sleeping bag and tent, and then eating lots and lots of calories. They even practice this during, what they call, rewarming drills: https://www.sitkagear.com/experience/a-navy-seal-rewarming-drill. Not a bad idea and, I think, a good skill set for us civilian backpackers (though don’t practice this without help or medical assistance!).

By: Steve. Rich

Steve. Rich — Mon, 14 Jun 2021 20:39:13 +0000

Have not had fires since the 80’s. What you get back does come close to the hassles and emotional joy. Unfortunately I know many who feel if you cannot have a fire what is the point in camping. WHAT???

By: John Goering

John Goering — Mon, 14 Jun 2021 20:32:41 +0000

I’m another that has not built a campfire in many decades. There is nothing like backpacking into a remote, sort of pristine lake only to find a damn fire ring at every conceivable camp site. Those rings do not go away on their own and it takes decades for the soil ecosystem to restore its self. About as for from LNT as you can get. I spend time dismantalling fire rings but they seem to multiply at increasing rates these days.

If you have to build a fire for warmth, you commited a major planning error. If it is for cooking, but a stove!!

By: E K

E K — Mon, 14 Jun 2021 19:08:33 +0000

I more than 100% agree, I’m entirely anti-campfire for me personally (no real use whatsoever and a total distraction) and I can’t stand smelling and seeing other campfires. It’s a nostalgic indulgence, and misinformed habit, that needs to go away.

By: Laura

Laura — Mon, 14 Jun 2021 19:05:00 +0000

Thank you so much for writing this. I just returned from a backpack trip in Yosemite which just reaffirmed the many cons you mentioned about campfires. People also think that a smokey fire will keep mosquitoes away. Using a head bug net, bug spray, or getting in your tent is more effective and efficient. Remember when people use to burn their TP? I really never understood that one, and hopefully no one does it anymore. Once again, thanks for the fine writing.

By: Paul Mags

Paul Mags — Mon, 14 Jun 2021 17:34:17 +0000

In reply to Mike Little. Very much my reasons as well!

By: Mike Little

Mike Little — Mon, 14 Jun 2021 17:04:34 +0000

I’ve backpacked for 50+ years and have had one campfire ever. There are few real pluses of fires relative to the waste of resources, the dangers, and sticking up, burning, and ruining clothing and gear.

By: Paul Mags

Paul Mags — Fri, 20 Nov 2020 21:47:21 +0000

In reply to Davy Haynes. We do the same (though use Luci lights.)

By: Davy Haynes

Davy Haynes — Fri, 20 Nov 2020 20:02:39 +0000

I am more and more in the camp of not making a fire while backpacking. I love a good fire for car camping. But after a long day of backpacking, I’d rather lounge and relax leaning back again my pack. If I need some hiker TV, I can always break out the candle lantern.