What is camping without a campfire?
To go camping and not to experience that primal pleasure of sitting around a glowing campfire. With that positively 'euphonious' sound of crackling fires and enjoying the cozy warmth and all, seemingly nothing can beat a campfire.
However, since you're here (to peruse our humble opinion on portable propane fire pits), it is safe to assume that you're already aware of the hazards associated with real campfires (no matter how much you love them!).
The wood is expensive; it is difficult to lug them around; starting a wood fire requires skill and experience; many campgrounds and national parks won't allow a real wood fire; latter can also cause potential accidents (from wildfires to that hole in your shirt!) and so on.
So, what is the alternative in such a scenario?
Well, there is one---A PORTABLE PROPANE FIRE PIT.
Contents
Benefits of Buying Portable Propane Fire Pits
Now that you're compromising on the positives of a 'real fire', let's have a brief look at the areas of gain.
- Propane fire pits are easy to ignite and shut off (no more looking for water to put off the fire before you call it a night)
- They are able to radiate heat better and you can regulate the temperature and flame with the adjustable regulator knobs of the propane firepit models
- Markedly safer from real wood fires
- No smoke or odor
- Easy to carry and tote around; also filling your propane tank is much easier compared to scouting for good firewood
- Perfect for camping, tailgating, etc. but also for use at home---think back porch evening parties and the like
- Doubles up as an extra cooking option
Things to Consider Before Buying
Since we are discussing portable fire pits, you must make sure that the product you go for is:
- Compact and lightweight---ideally 18- to 22-inch in diameter (for home use, some of the larger and heavier models would be OK)
- Ideally CSA approved (though not all good models are) since a CSA approval means that you can light the pit at areas with a fire ban.
- Equipped with a long hose, safety shut off valve and an insulated ant-heat base material that will help you move the fire pit without getting your fingers burned.
- Made of decent quality material
Apart from the above, you may also want to check whether the model includes lava rocks (a majority of models do) or a one-piece fake log. The lava rocks are normally better able to radiate heat than the fake logs.
And as far as the aesthetics are concerned, whether you prefer a fake log pit or one with lava rocks is a subjective choice.
However, if you go for a lava rock model, we recommend that you choose one with a lid for the burner that will prevent the rocks from scattering all over the storage compartment of your RV.
Additionally, covers or carry bags for both the model and the propane tank would be ideal! So, now to our pick of best portable propane fire pits out for grab!
Top Portable Propane Firepits in 2023
Product | Price | Rating | ​ |
|---|---|---|---|
Bond Manufacturing | $$ | ||
Camp Chef (Sequoia) | $$ | ||
Camp Chef (Redwood Port) | $$ | ||
Giantex | $$ | ||
Solo Stove | $$$ | ||
Camco | $$$ | ||
TACKLIFE | $$ | ||
Endless Summer | $$ | ||
Heininger (5995) | $$ | ||
*Outland Firebowl (Editor's Choice) | $$ |
10. Bond Manufacturing
If you want a smaller and handy portable fire pit, this model, with all its practical features, appears a really good choice. Budget-friendly, attractive design and ideal for small groups of campers.
Key Features: Sturdy locking lid; CSA approved; easy flame adjustment; tank seat holder; 10-foot long hose; 18.5 inches in diameter; equipped with lava rocks.
Pros
Cons
9. Camp Chef Sequoia
Another extremely small and portable propane-fueled fire pit in a 15-inch diameter. At 24 lbs, the weight looks a bit on the higher side but 12 lbs of them are the lava rocks (which you can always carry or store separately).
Key features: Heat-control and flame adjustment lever; great as an extra cooking option with 2 extendable roasting sticks included with the model; carry bag included; Not CSA approved but you can use the product at most fire ban restriction areas.
Pros
Cons
8. Camp Chef Redwood Port
In many ways, this model, also from Camp Chef, is similar to the previous model described. However, the model comes with a larger 19-inch diameter ring which makes it a better choice if you want to use it as an extra cooking option.
Key features: Safety shut-off valve; matchless ignition; fully adjustable flame- and heat-control knob; 19-inch diameter ring with a 15-inch fire pit; propane fuelled and includes lava rocks
Pros
Cons
7. Giantex
This 19inch diameter portable firepit is a great center piece for any RV travel or outdoor activity. Built with longevity in mind, its solid iron base makes it very stable when being used.
Even though it is made with iron, it is still lightweight and compact for easy storage when not in use. Another plus is the 10FT long hose that comes with the package. This allows you with plenty of room to attach your propane gas tank.
Pros
Cons
6. Solo Stove
This model does not fall in the category of propane fire pits. All the same, you may consider this if you are too strung on a natural wood fire but still want to avoid the hazards and difficulties associated with creating one.
Key features: Uses natural wood as fuel but still provides smokeless or low-smoke fire; made of extremely durable 304 stainless steel; weighs 20 lbs with a diameter of 19.5 inches
Pros
Cons
5. Camco
This open-air model is ideal for camping. It can be also for back porches, decks, patios, etc. We especially recommend it for its simple but elegant copper and black design and extremely high heat output.
Key features: 18.4-inches in diameter, 12-inch tall with a spacious base of 18 inches as well; specially-designed lava rocks for additional heat emission; secure and hassle-free ignition with the model's patented Piezo igniter; CSA approved.
Pros
Cons
4. TACKLIFE
This portable fire pit is great for any RVer. Its all stainless steel base makes it stable and durable to withstand the test of time. The most important thing that we like about this product is that it comes with an auto-ignition feature making it easier to operate for anyone. It also come CSA certified as well as a 24-hour contact service card which is a plus for us.
Key features: Premium bronze finish; equipped with most up-to-date safety features; CSA-certified; easy to assemble and easy use functions; great looking lava rocks included
Pros
Cons
3. Endless Summer
If you ever wanted a tastefully designed propane pit, this Endless Summer model with its latticed antique copper finish should be it. Also, at 21 inches, it is equally suitable for camping trips and for outdoor home use.
Key features: Up-to-date safety features; screw-on lid for easy transportability; adjustable heat and flame regulator; quality lava rocks especially good at retaining heat; 10-foot propane tank hose
Pros
Cons
2. Heininger 5995
This open bowl design propane pit will provide great satisfaction to all buyers. The model is loaded with useful features such as:
Key features: Fast hassle-free ignition; safety features; 10-foot long propane hose; lightweight and easy portability; CSA approved; 19-inch diameter burner
Pros
Cons
1. Outland Firebowl 870
If the performance of the model is what you prize most, this is the one to buy. Apart from all the usual features (10-foot hose, matchless auto-ignition, CSA-approved), the model is said to be extremely durable and produces an impressive 58,000 BTU.hr.
What is more, the Premium model will run anywhere between 9-11 hours on a full 20 lbs propane tank---the best performance in the portable propane pit category.
Pros
Cons
Final Thoughts
So, you see you can have some great campfire experience without having to burn wood at all.
As for the models, we recommend the Outland Firebowl model, but other Outland models (such as the 'standard' and 'mega' ones) are equally good. So, settle for the one that best fits your requirements.
Leave A Comment