There’s nothing like the crackle and warmth of a fire after a long day on the trail or setting up camp under the stars. Whether you’re camping in the mountains, overlanding through the desert, or just relaxing at a remote site with friends, a portable fire pit brings light, heat, and good vibes to any adventure.
But not all fire pits are created equal. Choosing the right one can make the difference between cozy evenings and frustrating setups.
With so many options on the market, it can be hard to know what makes a great portable fire pit. From heat output to packability, fuel efficiency to safety certifications, a number of key features will determine how well a fire pit fits your outdoor lifestyle. And if you’re overlanding or heading into regions with fire restrictions, some options are clearly safer and more versatile than others.This buying guide will help you navigate the most important considerations before you invest in a portable fire pit. We’ll walk through essential features, offer safety tips, and highlight two top examples: the Howl Campfires R1 and Howl Campfires R4 propane fire pits. No matter if you’re a weekend camper or a backcountry pro, you’ll find everything you need to choose the best fire pit for your next trip.
Why Choose a Portable Fire Pit?
Portable fire pits are a game-changer for outdoor adventurers. They offer the ambiance and comfort of a traditional campfire, but with much more control and convenience. When you’re far from established campgrounds, a portable fire pit provides a safe, consistent flame—no need to scrounge for firewood or worry about hot embers getting out of hand.
One major benefit is their eco-friendly design. Unlike open fires that scar the ground, create ash piles, or leave behind burned rings, quality portable fire pits protect the environment. Many sit off the ground and feature reflectors or containment systems to prevent heat damage to soil and vegetation.
Additionally, modern portable fire pits run on propane, which offers clean-burning flames with no smoke, no embers, and no wood chopping required. If you’re in burn-ban areas or have respiratory sensitivities, that’s a major win. Plus, you can fire them up instantly and shut them down just as fast—no waiting for coals to die out.
Key Features to Consider in a Portable Fire Pit
When shopping for a portable fire pit, several key factors should guide your decision:
Size and Layout
- Heat Output: Look for models that provide enough warmth for your needs. If you’re camping in colder environments or sharing with a group, you’ll need something like the Howl R4 with its 1200°F+ output and BarCoal technology, which throws heat even in wild winds.
- Efficiency: Fuel efficiency means longer burn times and fewer resupply stops. The Howl R1, for instance, offers eight hours of burn time on a single 20lb propane tank at full blast—impressive for such a compact unit.
- Portability and Size: For overlanders and anyone tight on space, collapsibility and weight matter. The Howl R1 weighs just 11 lbs and packs down to the size of a shoebox. The Howl R4 is heavier at 34 lbs, but it’s built for four-season use and maximum heat.
- Wind Resistance and Flame Control: A good portable fire pit should work reliably even in gusty weather. Both the R1 and R4 feature A-Flame Technology with windscreen protection. The R4’s BarCoal intake system ensures combustion even in 120 mph winds!
- Build Quality: Materials matter. Look for stainless steel, aluminum, and brass components that withstand heat and weather. Howl’s fire pits are made in the USA and designed for durability, with a warranty that covers wear, accidents, and defects.
Safety: Why Propane Fire Pits Are the Safer Choice
Safety is a top concern, especially when you’re camping in dry or fire-prone regions. Traditional wood fires may be nostalgic, but they carry significant risk—from stray embers to flare-ups, not to mention the challenge of fully extinguishing them.
Portable propane fire pits, on the other hand, offer a much safer solution. They create a controlled flame that can be instantly turned off, reducing the chance of wildfires. Many, including both the Howl R1 and R4, are certified for use even during Stage II Fire Bans, making them ideal for year-round adventure.
Because they don’t produce sparks or embers, portable propane fire pits are less likely to ignite surrounding vegetation. Models like the R4 go a step further with EchoHeat Reflector Shields that protect the ground, meaning you leave no trace behind.
Also, since propane fire pits don’t rely on wood, you avoid transporting firewood (which can carry invasive pests) and don’t have to forage in fragile ecosystems. It’s a cleaner, safer, and more responsible way to enjoy fire in the wild. Plus, since Howl Campfires’ portable fire pits are robustly built and rock-solid, there’s far less chance of knocking them over than other portable propane fire pits. In other words, if safety is a concern (and it should be!), the Howl R1 and R4 should be at the top of your list.
Packability and Design for Overlanding and Camping
For overlanders and campers with limited storage, size and packability can’t be overlooked. The ideal portable fire pit should be easy to stow, quick to set up, and built to survive the bumps of backcountry travel.
The Howl R1 is a prime example of compact efficiency. Weighing only 11 lbs and folding down to the size of a shoebox, it’s built for tight rigs and multi-day journeys. Despite its size, its 32-inch flames provide serious warmth and ambiance.
The R4, while larger and heavier, is a campsite powerhouse. It’s designed for groups and basecamps, where comfort matters most. With a footprint of just over 22 x 16 inches, it still fits neatly in most rigs. And thanks to its rugged construction and built-in reflectors, it performs in all conditions without damaging the terrain.
Both units are made of stainless steel, aluminum, and brass—materials that resist rust, wear, and temperature extremes. This means you won’t be replacing your fire pit every few seasons, and you can depend on it when you’re deep in the wilderness.
Burn Time and Fuel Efficiency
Fuel efficiency doesn’t just save money—it extends your adventure. A propane fire pit that sips fuel instead of guzzling it can keep your evenings lit and warm without the stress of frequent tank swaps.
The Howl R1 leads the pack in this area. With a full 8-hour burn time on high using a 20lb tank, it’s designed for long nights and short supply runs. You can also dial it down for extended use over several days—perfect for minimalist campers.
The R4, with its higher heat output, delivers about 6.5 hours on full blast. That’s still impressive given its 1200°F temps and the ability to fight off cold, wind, and rain. If you camp in extreme conditions, the extra warmth is well worth the slight trade-off in fuel time.
No matter which style you choose, make sure to carry extra propane and a reliable regulator hose. And always check the burn time rating, especially if you plan on camping off-grid for extended periods.
Weather and Terrain Performance
Your fire pit should work anywhere you roam—from sea level to high alpine terrain, sunny days to snowstorms. Not all units can handle these extremes, so performance under diverse conditions is crucial.
The Howl R4 shines in this department. Its BarCoal combustion system draws primary air in a way that’s unaffected by altitude, maintaining clean, complete combustion even at high elevations. It lights easily after rain, drains naturally, and relights itself if the wind blows it out.
The R1 also handles weather well, offering solid performance in wet or windy conditions thanks to its A-Flame windscreen and exposed flame design. It may not push out as much heat as the R4, but its reliability in most environments makes it a top pick for general-purpose camping.
Look for features like self-draining burners, altitude-stable combustion, and protective flame guards when evaluating weather performance. You never know what nature will throw your way!
Durability and Build Quality
Outdoor gear takes a beating. Your portable fire pit should be built like a tank—but easy to haul. That’s a tough combo to find, but it’s worth the investment.
Both Howl models are crafted from 304 stainless steel, aircraft-grade aluminum, and brass. These materials don’t just survive the elements—they thrive in them. From hot desert winds to freezing rain, these fire pits are built for the long haul.
What’s more, Howl Campfires offers a fair and flexible repair/replacement policy. Dings and dents? Wear them like a badge of honor. Functional damage? Send it back for repair or replacement. That kind of support is a rarity in the outdoor world.
When comparing fire pits, don’t overlook the warranty or origin. A fire pit made in the USA with service you can trust is always a safer bet than a cheaper import with no backup.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Portable Fire Pit
A portable fire pit isn’t just a camping accessory—it’s your source of warmth, light, and connection in the wild. Choosing the right one comes down to how you travel, who you camp with, and what kind of conditions you’re ready to face.
For solo travelers and minimalists, the Howl R1 is a top-tier option that offers high efficiency, excellent portability, and a surprising amount of heat. For group campers or those pushing into harsh climates, the Howl R4 delivers unmatched warmth and performance under any sky.
Whichever direction you go, make sure your fire pit is safe, certified, fuel-efficient, and built to last. You’ll enjoy more freedom, fewer hassles, and a lot more nights under the stars. With the right portable fire pit, every camp becomes a cozy refuge—no matter how far off the grid you go.