Fire in wet conditions separates the prepared from the stranded. I've watched too many campers struggle with soggy matches while rain drips off their hoods. A waterproof lighter removes that variable entirely.
I test lighters the same way I test everything: by using them in conditions where failure matters. Rain, wind, muddy hands, and cold fingers. If a lighter won't spark after three days in a wet pack, it's not going in my survival kit.
1. Lcfun Waterproof Electric Lighter
The dual arc plasma design works in wind that would kill a normal flame. I've used it in 20mph gusts without issue. The waterproof seal has held up after being dropped in a puddle and left in rain overnight.
USB rechargeable means one less thing to buy consumables for. A full charge lasts about a week of regular campfire starting. The arc produces a distinct crackling sound that either impresses or annoys people, depending on their mood.
Pros:
- Works in wind strong enough to blow out matches
- Actually waterproof, not just water-resistant
- No fuel means no leaks or evaporation
- Compact enough for a jeans pocket
- Arc lights tinder without touching it
Cons:
- Needs charging, so it's not truly maintenance-free
- Arc won't light logs directly, only tinder
2. Lcfun Waterproof Outdoor Lighter
This two-pack splits the difference between electric and fuel. You get both dual arc plasma and butane refillable options, which gives you backup if one system fails. The orange and camo colors make them hard to lose in a pack.
I keep one in my truck and one in my camping gear. The butane option works well for longer burns when you need to hold a flame to stubborn kindling. The electric arc handles quick lighting tasks.
Pros:
- Two lighters mean built-in redundancy
- Dual power options cover different scenarios
- Butane refill is cheap and available everywhere
- Bright colors prevent accidental loss
- Windproof torch flame handles breezy conditions
Cons:
- Carrying butane adds weight and bulk
- Electric mode still needs charging
3. Scotte Plasma Windproof Arc Lighter
The built-in flashlight is more useful than it sounds. I've used it to light fires at dawn and dusk without needing a separate headlamp. The magnesium fire starter adds old-school reliability if the electric components fail.
This is the lighter I recommend to people who want options. Plasma arc for convenience, ferro rod for when batteries die, flashlight for finding your way back to camp. It's a multitool disguised as a lighter.
Pros:
- Three fire-starting methods in one package
- LED flashlight prevents fumbling in the dark
- Magnesium rod works when everything else is dead
- Compact despite multiple functions
- No learning curve for the electric lighter
Cons:
- Battery life drops fast with frequent flashlight use
- Ferro rod requires practice if you've never used one
4. Suprus Waterproof Dual Arc Electric Rechargeable Lighter
The emergency whistle might seem gimmicky until you actually need it. I tested it on a solo hike and could hear it clearly from 200 yards away. The three-mode flashlight provides more light options than most lighter-flashlight combos.
The lanyard attachment point is sturdy enough to clip to a pack or belt loop. I appreciate that it's easy to grab in situations where fumbling through pockets isn't an option.
Pros:
- Emergency whistle adds safety without bulk
- Three flashlight modes cover different needs
- Lanyard keeps it accessible
- Waterproof seal is reliable
- Dual arc lights in strong wind
Cons:
- Small size means less battery capacity
- Multiple functions drain the charge faster
5. Survive Permanent Match
This is old-school reliability in a keychain form. Strike it like a match, but the wick never burns up. I keep one on my keychain and have used it dozens of times without noticeable wear.
The learning curve is real. First few strikes will probably fail. Once you get the technique down, it's fast and dependable. Pack of five means you can stash them everywhere: car, emergency kit, backpack, keychain, fishing tackle box.
Pros:
- Never runs out of fuel or charge
- Keychain size fits anywhere
- Works when soaked if you dry it off first
- Pack of five provides redundancy
- Metal construction won't break
Cons:
- Striking technique takes practice
- Won't light without tinder or fuel
6. Flamenest Waterproof Bic Lighter Case
Sometimes the simplest solution is the best one. This case lets you use the cheap Bic lighters you already buy while making them waterproof. I've tested it in streams and heavy rain without a single leak.
The two-pack is clutch. One for your hiking pack, one for your emergency kit. Bic lighters are reliable and available everywhere. Making them waterproof removes their one weakness.
Pros:
- Works with lighters you can buy at any gas station
- Actually keeps lighters bone dry
- Cheap enough to have multiples
- Fits standard Bic lighters perfectly
- No learning curve, just screw it shut
Cons:
- Only works with standard Bic size
- Adds bulk compared to carrying a lighter alone
7. Lcfun Electric Plasma Lighter
This combines the plasma arc lighter with an emergency whistle, creating a compact survival tool. The whistle is loud enough to hear from a distance, and the lighter works in conditions that would defeat traditional flames.
USB rechargeable eliminates the need for butane refills or disposable lighters. I charge it once every few weeks with regular use. The waterproof rating has held up to everything I've thrown at it. While you're at it, take a look at our waterproof matches as backup. While you're at it, take a look at our fire starters.
Pros:
- Dual safety features in one small package
- USB charging works with existing gear
- Windproof arc handles breezy conditions
- Waterproof enough for wet environments
- Emergency whistle might save your life
Cons:
- Needs periodic charging
- Arc requires close contact with tinder
How to Pick the Right One
- For ultralight backpacking: Permanent match on a keychain weighs nothing and never runs out.
- For car camping: Dual arc plasma lighters provide convenience without worrying about weight.
- For emergency kits: Waterproof Bic lighter case gives you reliable flame at the lowest cost.
- For extended trips: Butane refillable options work when electricity isn't available.
- For redundancy: Carry both electric and traditional options to cover different failure modes.
Bottom Line
Every survival kit needs at least two fire-starting methods. I carry a plasma lighter for convenience and a permanent match for backup. The plasma lighter handles 90% of situations, but when it's dead or broken, having the match means I'm not stuck.
