Backpacking can bring the opportunity to enjoy the pleasures of an open campfire. Natures TV is a welcoming presence, bringing warmth, an alternative cooking option and a great way to disperse the midges!
Starting one can be a challenge and my own preferred method requires little preparation, is lightweight and has never failed me.
A small amount of Vaseline or other petroleum jelly rubbed well into a cotton wool ball will light with the first spark from a fire steel. The cotton wool ignites easily, and the Vaseline helps prolong the flame allowing you to easily start building your fire using dry fine kindling and developing it slowly.
A couple of cotton balls prepared this way, stored in a zip lock bag in your first aid kit take up little space and can also be used to ease chapped lips etc.
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