As an avid camper and hiking enthusiast, I have had the opportunity to test out countless fire pits. I have developed a deep understanding of what features are important to consumers.
In this article, I will share my top 10 portable fire pits and my experience with each product.
I've carefully selected fire pits based on quality, durability, size, ease of use, and overall value for money.
Whether planning a weekend camping trip with your family or a cozy evening in your backyard with friends, I got you covered.
So, let's dive into the top 10 best portable fire pits you can get now!
What Are the 10 Best Portable Fire Pits You Should Buy?
Fire pits are a great way to bring warmth and ambiance to outdoor gatherings, camping trips, or backyard parties. They come in various shapes and sizes.
There are different portable fire pits on the market. There are wood -burning fire pits, propane fire pits, smokeless fire pits, and even those that run on their own fuel from electric ignition.
Collapsible fire pits are important because they offer a safe and convenient way to have a fire outdoors without needing a permanent fire pit or fire ring.
A portable fire pit can be easily moved and stored, making them an easy-to-carry fireplace. They can also be a portable grill for barbecuing on your backyard patio.
Here are, in my opinion, my top 10 favorite fire pits.
1. Best Overall - Solo Stove Ranger
- RANGER BIG YARD BUNDLE: The world’s most unique bundle to...
- RANGER SHELTER: A great companion for your fire pits for...
What I like
- Easy to use
- Compact Size
- Sturdy base and a Spark arrestor
What I don't like
- Expensive compared to other fire pits
My friends and I enjoy trips and spending time in nature, and the Solo Stove Ranger has quickly become our go-to fire pit for these adventures.
The Solo Stove Ranger is incredibly easy to use. Do some fire building, and voila! The unique airflow system ensures the fire burns efficiently and with little smoke.
Its design produces less smoke and more heat than traditional fire pits. Add a case of beer and a collapsible camping chair, which becomes a more enjoyable experience.
I love the lightweight and portable Solo Stove Ranger, making it easy to pack in the car for my next camping trip.
The durable stainless steel construction has held up well to frequent use, giving us confidence that it will last for many more trips.
The Solo Stove Ranger is also designed with safety in mind, with a sturdy base and a spark arrestor that prevents embers from flying out of the pit in the light wind.
Although, the price point of Solo Stove fire pits is higher than other fire pits on the market, which may deter budget-conscious campers looking for a backyard fire pit.
Size: 15" x 15" x 12.5" | Weight: 15 pounds | Fuel Type: Wood | Price: Mid-range | Extra Features: Double-wall design, minimal smoke production, ash pan for easy cleaning and maintenance, includes a carry case for portability and storage
2. Best Value - UCO Portable Stainless Steel Grill and Fire Pit
- Stainless steel grill folds to 1.5 inches thick and fits in...
- Regular size features 13 x 10-inch grilling area for up to 6...
What I like
- Easy to pack and transport.
- Easy to assemble and disassemble, with no tools required
- It can be used with wood or charcoal, providing flexibility in fuel choice
What I don't like
- The small size may not be suitable for larger groups
- The height of the fire pit may be lower than desired for some users
As a father, it was a proud moment when my eldest son asked for his first portable fire pit.
This lightweight fire pit is easy to pack and is convenient for transportation! Just fit it in the carrying case and go.
I wanted to find something affordable but still reliable, and after some research, I came across the UCO Portable Stainless Steel Grill and Fire Pit.
It seemed the perfect option for our family camping trips and backyard barbecues, so we tried it.
I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and functionality of this budget-friendly folding fire pit.
Size: 13.5 x 10 x 1.5 inches | Weight: 3.2 pounds | Fuel Type: Wood or Charcoal | Price: Affordable | Extra Features: N/A
3. Best for Backyards - KingSo Outdoor Fire Pit
What I like
- Easy to assemble and disassemble
- The size of the fire pit is just right
- The foldable fire pit is made of high-quality materials
- Feels sturdy and well-built
- The design of the fire pit is sleek and modern
What I don't like
- The fire pit can be heavy, especially hiking to a campsite.
- The included carrying case is a bit flimsy
- It doesn't provide much protection for the fire pit.
As a father of three and a camping enthusiast, finding the perfect portable fire pit has always been my priority.
I've been through my fair share of Fire pits, but the Kingso Outdoor Fire Pit stands out as one of the best I've ever used!
When my family and I went camping at Yosemite National Park, we brought this wood-burning fire pit, which exceeded our expectations. We've used it multiple times, and it still looks and functions like new.
It's large enough to keep the fire going for a few hours but not too big that it takes up a lot of storage space.
We could keep the fire roaring at a cozy blaze in this portable campfire while using its included fire poker to adjust the heat while we roast marshmallows and hot dogs, making it a great fire pit for outdoor trips.
Size: 32" x 32" x 17" | Weight: 30 lbs | Fuel Type: Wood | Price: Affordable | Extra Features: Removable mesh screen, flame poker for easy adjustment of the wood and charcoal briquettes, Multi-functional design that can be used as a fire pit or grill
4. Best for Medium Gatherings - Solo Stove Bonfire
- SMOKELESS FIRE PIT: Experience the magic of a cozy,...
- WARMTH ON THE GO: This portable, lightweight camping heater...
What I like
- The Solo Stove Bonfire is incredibly easy to set up and use
- The stainless steel construction is durable and resistant to rust and corrosion
- The unique design of the fire pit allows for a smokeless fire
- The compact size and lightweight construction
What I don't like
- The Solo Stove Bonfire can be a bit pricey compared to other portable fire pits on the market.
- Some users have reported that the fire pit can be difficult to clean after use.
I recently had the opportunity to use the Solo Stove Bonfire on an outdoor trip and was blown away by its innovative design and ease of use.
As someone who loves spending time outdoors, I always look for high-quality camping gear, and the Solo Stove Bonfire did not disappoint.
The Solo Stove Bonfire is a fire pit perfect for outdoor trips, backyard barbecues, and other outdoor activities.
The sleek design and innovative technology make it a standout option among portable fire pits.
Size: 19.5" x 19.5" x 14" | Weight: 20 pounds | Fuel Type: Wood | Price: Mid-range | Extra Features: Smokeless design, stainless steel construction, comes with a carrying case
5. Best Propane - Bond Manufacturing Aurora Portable Steel Propane Gas Fire Pit
- Includes lid, stones, tank holder, gas hose and regulator
- Steel frame with rubbed bronze finish
What I like
- The propane pit uses propane tanks
- The compact and lightweight design
- The adjustable flame control allows for flame height and heat output customization.
- The included lava rocks add a stylish touch and create a realistic campfire feel.
- Electric ignition allows for easy fuel ignition on this portable propane fire pit.
What I don't like
- Propane fuel is a bit more expensive than wood and charcoal
- The price is higher than some other portable propane pits.
- The lava rocks that come with the propane fire pit are too few.
As a family of five that loves spending time outdoors, we always look for new ways to enjoy the fresh air.
When we stumbled upon the Bond Manufacturing Aurora Portable Steel Propane Gas Fire Pit, we knew we had to try the propane pit.
It promised to be the best propane portable fire pit, and we were eager to put it to the test. And it's safe to say it is one of the best gas-powered pits we have purchased.
We recently took it with us on a weekend trip, and we were blown away by how convenient and easy it was to use.
Its warmth and ambiance made our evenings around the campfire even more enjoyable. A huge bonus for this one is a locking lid, which keeps the fire safety in place.
Although, maintenance can be a pain since propane fuel is more expensive than wood and charcoal, making refueling more expensive on this propane gas fire pit.
Since the propane fire pit provides few lava rocks, I suggest buying a separate bag of lava rocks to supplement.
Size: 18.5" x 18.5" x 14.65" | Weight: 18 pounds | Fuel Type: Propane | Price: Mid-range | Extra Features: Adjustable heating performance, weather-resistant finish, included lava rocks
6. Best for Camping - Fireside Outdoor Pop-Up Fire Pit
- The Pop-Up Fire Pit is the first truly portable wood or...
- ENGINEERING SIMPLE - The Pop-Up Pit sets-up in just under 60...
What I like
- The collapsible design is easy to set up and take down
- The heat shield on the bottom keeps the ground cool
- The included carrying case makes it easy to transport and store.
What I don't like
- The small size limits the amount of wood that can be burned simultaneously.
- The price point is slightly higher than other portable fire pits on the market.
My wife and I have explored some of the most beautiful camping spots across the country.
During our most recent couple's trip, we brought along the Fireside Outdoor Pop-Up Fire Pit, which exceeded our expectations.
The collapsible design made it incredibly easy to pack and transport, and once we arrived at our campsite, it was a breeze to set up the pop-up fire pit
We enjoyed cozy evenings by the fire, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories under the stars. In the morning, we quickly packed the fire pit in its carrying case in 5 minutes!
Size: 24" x 24" x 15" | Weight: 8 lbs | Fuel Type: Wood or charcoal | Price: Mid-range | Extra Features: Collapsible design, heat shield, carrying case.
7. Best for Short Trips - Snow Peak Takibi Fire and Grill
- VERSATILE – The Takibi Fire and Grill is an easy-to-use,...
- DURABLE – Stainless Steel built for a lifetime of use....
What I like
- The dual functionality of the fire pit and grill
- The Takibi Fire and Grill is made from durable stainless steel
- The compact size and portability
What I don't like
- The Takibi Fire and Grill's price point is higher than most portable fire pits
- The grill grates can be difficult to clean, especially if food gets stuck between the bars.
As an avid camper and outdoor enthusiast, I always seek high-quality gear to stand up to the elements and enhance my experience.
The fire pit's dual functionality makes it versatile and practical for cooking meals. The removable grill bridge can be placed to turn the fire pit into a grill.
The Snow Peak Takibi Fire and Grill is one such product that has exceeded my expectations in every way. This wood-burning fire pit is the perfect pop-up fire pit for any trip.
It is a highly functional open fire pit, and with the removable grill grate, it can double as a grill, making it the perfect addition to any camping trip or backyard gathering.
Size: 19.7" x 19.7" x 13.8" | Weight: 31 lbs. | Fuel Type: Wood or charcoal | Price: Expensive | Extra Features: Airflow system for reduced smoke, dual functionality as a fire pit and grill, Made from durable stainless steel
8. Best for Large Groups - Sun Joe Fire Joe Wood Burning 30 Inch Steel Fire Pit
- Ideal outdoor centerpiece for warmth and enjoyment
- Durable cast stone base adds a sophisticated touch to any...
What I like
- The large size of the wood-burning fire pit
- The stylish design of the fire pit
- The ash catcher is a great feature that makes cleaning up after use a breeze.
What I don't like
- The fire pit is heavy
- The assembly was a bit tricky and took longer than expected
As a family of five, we love spending time in our backyard. Therefore, we wanted something large enough to accommodate us when we purchased a new pit.
That's when we came across the Sun Joe Fire Joe Wood Burning 30 Inch Steel Fire Pit.
The size of this fire pit is impressive - it can easily fit large logs and has enough space for everyone to gather around comfortably.
Size: 30" x 30"x 24" | Weight: 32 pounds | Fuel Type: Wood | Price: Mid-range | Extra Features: Spark screen, log grate, poker tool.
9. Best for Patio - Outland Living Fire Table
- Perfect addition of functionality and style for your...
- Product dimensions – 36” L x 36” W x 24.5” H | Max...
What I like
- The sleek and modern fire table makes it a stylish addition to any backyard or patio
- The table's surface is made of a weather-resistant resin wicker material
- The fire table has a locking lid, making it easy to protect when not in use
What I don't like
- The fire table is relatively heavy
- The propane tank that fuels the fire pit component of the table is not included in the purchase
The Outland Living Fire Table is a versatile addition to any backyard. I enjoyed experiencing this propane fire pit at a friend's dinner party, where we gathered around it.
What struck me most about the fire table was how seamlessly it blended into the rest of the patio furniture, even with the propane tank. It was not out of place in the patio space.
It functioned as a fire pit and a table, making it the perfect centerpiece for any outdoor gathering.
Size: 44" x 32" x 23" | Weight: 96 lbs | Fuel Type: Propane | Price: Expensive | Extra Features: The fire table doubles as a table, making it a versatile addition to any outdoor space. It also comes with a cover to protect it when not in use.
10. Best Splurge - Biolite Firepit+
- Smokeless wood and charcoal burning fire pit and grill...
- Ideal for camping, RVing, overlanding, tailgating, beach,...
What I like
- It has a patented airflow system
- Ability to be controlled remotely via the BioLite app.
- The rechargeable battery allows up to 24 hours of burn time
- The wooden pallets allow for a smokeless burn from the flames.
What I don't like
- The BioLite FirePit+ is quite heavy
- The high-tech features and advanced technology come at a price.
- Wood pellets are hard to ignite with a fire starter.
Recently, my wife had a few friends over for a wine and barbeque hangout session, and her friend brought along the Biolite Firepit+. I was impressed by its high-tech features.
As we gathered around the fire, I couldn't help but notice how little smoke the smokeless fire pit produced, making it a comfortable and pleasant experience for everyone.
It's safe to say that the Biolite Firepit+ is not your typical smokeless fire pit. One of the best things about the BioLite FirePit+ is its ability to be controlled remotely via the BioLite app.
We could adjust the flame size and heating performance with our phones, making it easy to control the fire without getting up and manually adjusting it.
The Biolite Firepit+ is also fueled by wood pellets, which are hard to ignite if you do not have a dedicated fire starter. However, they do provide a smokeless burn.
Quick Comparisons Of The Top Fire Pits That Are Portable
Best Portable Fire Pits | Size | Weight | Fuel Type | Price | Extra Features |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Solo Stove Ranger | 15 x 15 x 12.5 inches | 15 lb. | Wood | Mid-range | Double-wall design, minimal smoke production, ash pan for easy cleaning and maintenance, includes a carry case for portability and storage. |
UCO Portable Stainless Steel Grill and Fire Pit | 13.5 x 10 x 1.5 inches | 3.2 lb. | Wood or Charcoal | Affordable | N/A |
KingSo Outdoor Fire Pit | 32 x 32 x 17 inches | 30 lb. | Wood | Affordable | Removable mesh screen, flame poker for easy adjustment of the wood and charcoal briquettes, Multi-functional design that can be used as a fire pit or grill |
Solo Stove Bonfire | 19.5 x 19.5 x 14 inches | 20 lb. | Wood | Mid-range | Smokeless design, stainless steel construction, comes with a carrying case |
Bond Manufacturing Aurora Portable Steel Propane Gas Fire Pit | 18.5 x 18.5 x 14.65 inches | 18 lb. | Propane | Mid-range | Adjustable heating performance, weather-resistant finish, included lava rocks |
Fireside Outdoor Pop-Up Fire Pit | 24 x 24 x 15 inches | 8 lb. | Wood or Charcoal | Mid-range | Collapsible design, heat shield, carrying case. |
Snow Peak Takibi Fire and Grill | 19.7 x 19.7 x 13.8 inches | 31 lb. | Wood or Charcoal | Expensive | Airflow system for reduced smoke, dual functionality as a fire pit and grill, Made from durable stainless steel |
Sun Joe Fire Joe Wood Burning 30 Inch Steel Fire Pit | 30 x 30x 24 inches | 32 lb. | Wood | Mid-range | Spark screen, log grate, poker tool. |
Outland Living Fire Table | 44 x 32 x 23 inches | 96 lb. | Propane | Expensive | The fire table doubles as a table, making it a versatile addition to any outdoor space. It also comes with a cover to protect it when not in use. |
Biolite Firepit+ | 27 x 13 x 15.8 inches | 19.8 lb. | Wood Pellets | Expensive | Smokeless airflow system, remote control via app, rechargeable battery, grill grate, stainless steel construction |
Why Should You Get a Portable Fire Pit?
I can confidently say that getting a portable fire pit is an excellent investment for anyone who loves spending time outdoors.
Fire pits provide a warm and cozy atmosphere, making them perfect for creating a relaxing ambiance that can help you unwind and de-stress.
Portable fire pits also offer a great way to cook food outdoors. Many models come with grilling racks, allowing you to prepare meals for your friends and family.
In addition, getting a portable fire pit is a sustainable and eco-friendly choice. It allows you to enjoy a fire without leaving a traditional fire pit behind or damaging the environment.
Many parks and campgrounds require portable fire pits for this very reason, and by using one, you're doing your part to preserve the beauty of nature.
What Are Things to Consider Before Buying a Portable Fire Pit?
When it comes to portable fire pits, there are a few key factors that you should consider before making a decision. These include:
- Size and Portability: You'll want to choose a fire pit that is big but portable. Consider the weight, dimensions, and whether the fire pit can be easily packed and transported.
- Material: The material of your fire pit will affect its durability and longevity. Look for fire pits from high-quality materials such as stainless steel or cast iron.
- Heating Performance: The heating performance of your fire pit will determine how warm and cozy your campsite will be. Look for models with a high BTU output.
- Ease of Use: You'll want a fire pit that is easy to set up and use, with features like a simple ignition system and a removable ash tray for easy cleanup.
- Safety: Safety should always be a top priority. Look for models with features like a locking lid or a fireproof mat to prevent accidental fires.
Got more questions about the best portable fire pits? Here are our frequently asked questions about the topic. The lifespan of a portable fire pit can vary depending on factors such as the quality of materials used, and maintenance Made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel or cast iron, they tend to last longer. Regular maintenance, including cleaning after each use, proper storage, and regular inspection, can help prolong the life of the fire pit. Absolutely! I love having a portable fire pit in my backyard. It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors and has cozy gatherings with friends and family. However, it’s important to check with local regulations and follow safety guidelines to ensure that the fire pit is legal and safe. It depends on the type of fire pit you have. Traditional fire pits that burn wood are not very effective as patio heaters since they produce a lot of smoke. However, some fire pits are specifically designed to function as patio heaters, which use propane or natural gas as fuel and produce heat without smoke. If you want to use your fire pit as a patio heater, it’s important to ensure it is safe and that you are following all safety guidelines. To learn more about patio heaters, check out our guide on the best patio heaters and best tabletop heaters. No, a fire pit cannot replace a microwave. A fire pit is designed for outdoor use and primarily for heating and cooking food over an open flame. Conversely, a microwave is an indoor appliance that uses electromagnetic radiation to cook and heat food quickly and efficiently. The two serve different purposes and cannot be used interchangeably. To know more, please check out our guide on the best small microwaves.FAQs Related To Portable Fire Pits
Summary
Now that I have talked about portable fire pits, here are my thoughts on the best portable fire pit on the market!
- Best Overall: Solo Stove Ranger
- Best Budget: UCO Portable Stainless Steel Grill and Fire Pit
- Best for Backyards: KingSo Outdoor Fire Pit
- Best for Medium Gatherings: Solo Stove Bonfire
- Best Propane: Bond Manufacturing Aurora Portable Steel Propane Gas Fire Pit
- Best for Camping: Fireside Outdoor Pop-Up Fire Pit
- Best for Short Trips: Snow Peak Takibi Fire and Grill
- Best for Large Groups: Sun Joe Fire Joe Wood Burning 30 Inch Steel Fire Pit
- Best for Patio: Outland Living Fire Table
- Best Splurge: Biolite Firepit+
Conclusion
A fire pit is essential for anyone who loves spending time outdoors.
Whether camping, hosting a backyard party, or simply enjoying a night under the stars, a fire pit can provide warmth, light, and ambiance to any gathering.
When choosing a portable fire pit, it's important to consider the size, weight, fuel type, price range, and any extra features such as a smokeless design or carrying case.
With so many options available today, there's a fire pit that suits every need and budget.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to enhance your outdoor experience with the cozy glow of a portable fire pit.