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Backpacker Magazine – August 2009

Reader Tip: Double-Duty Firestarter

All you need is toilet paper and a little olive oil.

by: Jonah Johnson

(Photo by Genny Fullerton)

Skills

I have the easiest, lightest way to start a fire—using stuff that I take on a hike for obvious reasons. Loosely ball up five squares of TP and shape into a bowl. Pour a small amount of olive oil in the bowl. Crush TP into a ball, saturate the outside with more oil, then place on tinder and light. The flame will last more than five minutes.
Jonah Johnson, Traverse City, MI Sandwiches

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READERS COMMENTS

Update - I used this method to start a fire this weekend while backpacking with my two kids in the Red River Gorge in KY. It had been damp, rainy and misty but the fire blazed great! I did it again the next day during a downpour. The TP & oil caught fire to our delight. There is something heart warming to see a fire going when the rest of the weather is against it. It lifted our spirits and the rest of the trip seemed more enjoyable. Thanks for the timely tip.
Posted: Sep 09, 2009 Steve Cash

Good suggestion. I agree it makes a great fire starter. Olive oil has been used as lamp light oil since Bible times. It gives a nice warm glow and pleasing fragrance.
Posted: Aug 28, 2009 Steve C.