How to Make Waterproof Matches for Camping

Waterproof matches could very well save your life.

When you’re camping, especially during periods of inclement weather, being able to make a camp fire is one of the most important skills you can possess. 

If you’ve ever camped when the air was moist, though, you know that even wooden matches are often not easy to use, and carrying fuel lighters adds to the weight you have to haul through the woods.

When you go camping, there is often no guarantee that everything is going to stay dry. Things may get wet because of unexpected rain or because you are too close to the water.

No matter what the reason is for things getting wet, however, you will still want a nice, cozy campfire to enjoy while you are out.

This is why it is so important to have some waterproof matches with you when you go, and while you can buy them, it is often cheaper to make your own. It also guarantees the quality of your waterproof matches.

In order to make waterproof matches, you will need the following tools:

• Wooden matches (preferably the strike anywhere kind)
• Paraffin Wax (can be purchased at most grocery, discount, or even craft stores)
• Double boiler
• Tongs or pliers (for removing matches from wax)
• Wax or parchment paper

How to Make Waterproof Matches for Camping

When you have all of your supplies together, spread out a piece of wax or parchment paper on a flat surface, and melt the wax in a double boiler.

Put the matches into the melted wax, making sure that they are completely coated, and remove them one at a time from the wax with the tongs.

Place them on the paper to cool and dry. Do not let them touch one another as they dry because they will stick together.

When they are cool and dry, you may either place them back in their original container or you may place them into a waterproof container.

A waterproof container is your best bet, and you can get a waterproof match container at most outdoor supply stores.

How do waterproof matches work?

The thin layer of wax keeps the heads of your matches from getting wet, which will allow them to strike under any circumstances. Do keep in mind that while waterproof matches are slightly more difficult to light than regular matches, they will still light.

It just may take a couple of strikes, as the first strike usually wears away enough of the wax that it lights the second time easily.  

Waterproof matches can be a real lifesaver when you are out camping. There are so many ways that things can get damp or wet, even up to and including condensation in the air. They are also an essential part of any survival kit, inside or outside the home. It can also be fun to make waterproof matches, and once you know-how, you will not forget.