Step 5 of 14 · Build a Campfire That Lights First Try
Kindling: pencil-thick, snap-dry
Kindling: pencil-thick, snap-dry — step 5 of 14 in Build a Campfire That Lights First Try. Kindling bridges the gap between tinder flame and real fuel. Collect dead sticks — still on the tree or just fallen — that snap cleanly…
Free outdoor skills tip: Kindling: pencil-thick, snap-dry (step 5 of 14 from "Build a Campfire That Lights First Try").
Kindling bridges the gap between tinder flame and real fuel. Collect dead sticks — still on the tree or just fallen — that snap cleanly when bent. A clean snap means dry; a bend or green core means too wet. Aim for pencil thickness (5–8 mm diameter) and 20–30 cm length. You need about 20 pieces: two generous handfuls.
Sort by size: start with the thinnest (matchstick to pencil) and graduate to thumb-thick. You will add them in order, thinnest first, so the fire climbs the size ladder without gaps.
You'll need
- Sticks snap cleanly
- 5–8 mm diameter
- 20+ pieces gathered
- Sorted thin to thick
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