It’s the end of a long day; whether you are sitting on the beach, in the mountains, or your backyard, your muscles are tired; it’s time to take a seat, chat with friends, have a beverage, and revisit the adventures of the day. With so many portable fire pits on the market, which one fits your needs the best?

First you must consider your specific needs, such as portability, size, fuel type (pellets, wood or propane) and any additional features like grilling grates or cooking capabilities. We tested three different portable fire pits, cue the music, “I fell into a burning ring of fire, I went down, down, down …….” ok enough of that, thanks Johnny, please note no one fell into any of these rings during testing.

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Ignik FireCan

Weighing in at 13 pounds and about the size of a shoe box, this ammunition can-shaped fire pit gives a unique and rustic appearance. Fueled by propane, it’s super easy to carry, easy to set up, and doesn’t take up much space for transport. The four legs fold out, without the use of tools from the bottom of the FireCan raising the heat off the surface, so it’s safe in most settings. There is a removable cover and a silicone handle for easy transport. As you dial the valves the large dancing flame will draw you in and give you the campfire vibe.

Pros:

Design: Quick and Easy set up. The FireCan is more compact than traditional fire pits, making it easy to transport and set up at your campsite and lightweight. It’s unique shape adds a conversation piece and a focal point of your gathering area.
Durable Construction: The stainless steel and anodized aluminum construction also provides durability, ensuring the FireCan can withstand outdoor conditions and last for a long time.
Propane Fuel: Propane fire pits are easy to start and maintain. They offer adjustable flame control and can be turned on and off with a simple switch or knob.
Clean-Burning: Propane is a clean-burning fuel, which means there is no smoke or ash to deal with. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want a hassle-free fire experience without the smoke associated with wood-burning fire pits.

Safety Features:

The FireCan Elite (the top of the line FireCan) is CSA Certified, featuring a 5psi quick-release mechanism, and includes a CSA propane cylinder stand. These safety features provide peace of mind during your campfire activities. Propane fire pits are generally considered safe, as they don't produce sparks, embers, or flying debris associated with wood-burning fires.

They also have safety features like automatic shut-off mechanisms.

Cons:

Propane Fuel Requirement: The FireCan is designed to use propane as its fuel source. This means you need to have access to propane canisters or tanks, which might not be readily available in remote camping locations.
Initial Cost: Propane fire pits can have a higher initial cost compared to traditional wood-burning fire pits. You'll need to invest in the fire pit itself and the propane supply.
Environmental Considerations: Using propane as a fuel source may not be as environmentally friendly as using wood, as it produces carbon emissions when burned. Some campers prefer the natural ambiance and scent of a wood-burning fire.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance and occasional tank replacement are also necessary.
Heat Output: While propane fire pits provide heat, they might not generate as much warmth as wood-burning fire pits, especially during colder weather.

A Few Words From Ignik:

Ignik was founded in the Pacific Northwest amongst the fresh air, evergreens and endless mountains the company began on the family sailboat in the Arctic. Ignik was founded on the principles of doing right by our people, doing good for the planet, and doing what we love: making innovative, adventure-ready outdoor heating products. Together we can fight climate change in the Arctic, all while keeping you and your family safe and warm. Be The Change.

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Solo Stove Yukon

Solo Stove is a popular brand known for its efficient and smokeless fire pits and stoves. It’s a cinch to set up! Our friends loved the look and couldn’t get over how much heat was produced. The recurrent comment from most when they walked up to warm their hands: “Cool, it’s a Solo!”

Pros:

Smokeless Design: Solo Stove products are engineered to minimize smoke production. They feature a unique airflow system that promotes efficient combustion, resulting in a cleaner and more enjoyable fire experience.
Efficient Burning: Solo Stoves are designed to burn wood or other fuel sources efficiently. This not only reduces smoke but also maximizes heat output, making them effective for cooking and providing warmth.
Durable Construction: Solo Stove products are typically made from high-quality stainless steel, which is known for its durability and resistance to rust and corrosion. This makes them suitable for outdoor use in various weather conditions.
Portability: Many Solo Stove models are compact and portable, making them easy to transport for camping, backpacking, or other outdoor adventures.
Versatility: Solo Stove offers a range of products, including fire pits and stoves, which can be used for both heating and cooking purposes. Some models come with additional accessories like grills and pot stands.

Cons:

Price: Solo Stove products tend to be more expensive compared to traditional fire pits or stoves. The quality and performance may justify the higher cost for some, but it could be a drawback for budget-conscious buyers.
Fuel Availability: Solo Stove products are primarily designed for burning wood, so you'll need a source of dry wood to use them. In some situations, finding suitable wood may be challenging. However, they now offer an adapter for pellets.
Limited Cooking Surface: While Solo Stove can be used for cooking, the cooking surface on some models is relatively small. This might be a limitation for those who want to prepare large meals.
Learning Curve: Achieving a truly smokeless fire may require some practice and experimentation with fuel placement and airflow adjustments. Some users might find it takes a bit of time to get the hang of it.
Weight: While Solo Stove's portability is a plus, the stainless-steel construction can make some models relatively heavy, which may not be ideal for backpacking or hiking.

Solo Stove’s statement:

Create good; We are driven by this mantra. Our fire pits, camp stoves, pizza oven, grill and accessories are designed to help you get in touch with whatever is “good” for you. Whether it’s a primal moment in awe of a smokeless flame, the moment right after you’ve taken a hot sip of coffee in the mountains, the gratification of sharing a hand crafted artisan pizza, or your kid’s face when they bite into a delicious s’more. Good moments. Good memories. Good products. So you can create a good life.

Breeo Smokeless Fire Pit Y Series

Breeo is a reputable brand known for its smokeless fire pits. Made in the USA dating back to 2011. Personally, I liked the legs on this model and how the carry bag encased the entire fire pit with a hole for the handle! The group liked the handle and the built-in heat shield. Overall, the fire burned hot without all of us doing the smoke shuffle and the s’mores were delicious!

Pros:

Smokeless Technology: Breeo fire pits incorporate Y Airflow™, which helps reduce smoke. The Y Airflow design is a raised air intake vent at the bottom of the fire pit that enables oxygen to feed the fire even as ashes build up.
Efficient Burning: Breeo fire pits are designed for efficient wood-burning. They can generate a substantial amount of heat with less smoke, making them ideal for cooking and providing warmth.
Durability: Breeo fire pits are constructed from heavy-duty, high-quality steel, making them durable and long-lasting. They can withstand various weather conditions and are suitable for year-round outdoor use.
Cooking Options: Many Breeo models come with accessories like grilling grates, searing plates, and kettles, making them versatile for outdoor cooking and food preparation.
Stylish Design: Breeo offers a range of fire pit designs, the X Series, Luxeve and Y Series, which have a contemporary and attractive appearance, adding aesthetic value to your outdoor space. Breeo provides various sizes and styles to choose from, including larger models that can accommodate bigger groups and gatherings.

Cons:

Price: Breeo fire pits are often more expensive than traditional fire pits. While the quality and performance justify the cost for many users, they might not be the most budget-friendly option.
Weight: Some Breeo fire pits can be quite heavy, which may limit their portability. If you plan to move your fire pit frequently, this can be a drawback.
Safety Concerns: As with any fire pit, there are safety concerns. Breeo fire pits get very hot, so they should be used with caution, especially around children or pets. It's important to follow safety guidelines and regulations for outdoor fires.

A Word From Jonathan and Amos (the founders):

“Over the years, Lancaster farmers and craftsmen have established a reputation for quality. A majority of Breeo's team members originate from Lancaster County, and we are reaping the rewards of generations of values instilled in the people of the area."

Breeo cares about quality, and so does Lancaster, "The work culture that's taught in Lancaster County sets us apart. In addition to hard work, trust and loyalty are other core values here, which feed into quality. If you can depend on each other as a team, it relieves the pressure and it helps you be more successful. This is why we focus on hiring high achievers who want to be part of something great."

We Ended In a Tie:

Circling back to that ring of fire, literally, all three fire pits hit the mark. Each one had its own unique characteristics that neither won nor lost the test. We had a great time testing these unfortunately, we ended in a three-way tie.