When RVing, a portable fire pit is essential for enjoying campfires without leaving a trace. However, with various portable fire pits in the market, each with different features, it can be tricky to choose the right one. In this guide, we’ve scoured through various products to find three of the best portable fire pits that prioritize packability and smoke-free operation.
Portable Fire Pit Comparison Table
A quick comparison of our top choices for portable fire pits.
| Feature | Solo Stove Bonfire Fire Pit 2.0 | BioLite FirePit+ | UCO Flatpack Medium Portable Grill & Fire Pit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Image | |||
| Price | $299.99 | $299.95 | $49.99 |
| Weight | 23.3 lbs | 19.8 Lbs | 3.3 lbs |
| Materials | Stainless Steel | X-Ray mesh, high-temp enamel | Stainless steel |
| Durability | High, withstands outdoor use | High, enamel improves durability | High, rust and corrosion-resistant |
| Dimensions | 19.5″ D x 14″ H | Legs unfolded: 27″ W x 13″ D x 15.8″ H | Packed: 13.5″ L x 10″ W x 1.1″ H |
| Warranty | Lifetime product warranty | Not specified | 1 year |
| Smokeless Operation | Yes | Yes | No |
| Fuel Type | Wood | Wood and charcoal | Wood and charcoal |
| Cooking Capability | No | Yes, including grill grate | Yes, functions as a grill |
| Portability | Carry case included. | Folding legs, optional carry bag. | Ultra-compact, folds flat |
1. Solo Stove Bonfire Fire Pit 2.0: The Best Easy-to-Use Fire Pit
Price:
$299.99 (Discounted price: $229.99)
Features:
The Solo Stove Bonfire Fire Pit 2.0 is a high-quality, durable, and efficient portable fire pit. Its standout feature is the double-wall design, which creates a virtually smokeless experience, and its stainless steel construction which facilitates superior airflow. Other key features include:
- Removable base plate and ash pan for easy cleanup.
- Lightweight and portable with included carry case.
- Efficient wood-burning with flames reaching 400°F hotter than regular fires.
Pros:
- Smokeless Design: Enjoy campfires without smoke and embers blowing in your face.
- Fast and Easy: Quick to set up, light, and achieve a roaring fire in minutes.
- Durable Construction: Stainless steel withstands high temperatures and outdoor elements.
- Easily Portable: This can be packed and carried easily in its free carry case.
Cons
- Expensive: Pricier than many other portable fire pits.
- Not for Cooking: No grill grate or cooking functionality.
2. BioLite FirePit+: Best for Cooking and Smoke Control
Price:
$299.95 (Discounted Price: $187.46)
Features:
The BioLite FirePit+ uses 51 air jets to inject oxygen into the fire, minimizing smoke and creating a cleaner, more efficient burn. It runs on both firewood and charcoal, allowing you to use it as a smokeless fire pit or a hibachi-style grill. The included grill grate and fuel rack enable seamless cooking over an open flame. Other notable features include:
- Folding legs and optional carry bag for portability.
- X-ray mesh body for 360° fire viewing and radiant heat.
- Bluetooth app control and manual fan speed settings.
Pros:
- Dual Fuel: Burns wood or charcoal for cooking versatility.
- Smoke Reduction: 51 air jets minimize smoke for a clean, comfortable experience.
- Viewing Mesh: Perforated X-ray mesh provides full fire visibility.
- Adjustable Fan: 4 fan speeds via Bluetooth or manual control to optimize burn.
Cons
- Pricey: More expensive than basic portable fire pits.
- Battery Issues: Some users reported issues regarding the quality of the battery.
3. UCO Flatpack Medium Portable Grill & Fire Pit: Most Budget-friendly Pick
Price:
$49.99
Features:
For RVers prioritizing packability, the UCO Flatpack Grill and Fire Pit is the most compact and lightweight option. Folding down to just 1.1 inches thick, it fits effortlessly in tight RV storage spaces. Despite its slim profile, the Flatpack unfolds into a sturdy stainless steel fire pit and grill. The stable base elevates the fire off the ground, while the side walls serve as windbreaks. Other key features include:
- Ultra-compact folded dimensions of 13.5″ x 10″ x 1.1″.
- Durable stainless steel construction for corrosion and rust resistance.
- 30-second setup and takedown.
- Leaves no trace as a self-contained fire pit.
- The 13″ x 10″ grilling area provides ample space to cook.
Pros:
- Highly Portable: Slim 1.1″ folded thickness for easy packing.
- Quick Setup: Assembles from packed to ready in 30 seconds.
- Versatile: Functions as a fire pit and grill for cooking meals.
- Rust Proof: Since this fire pit is made of stainless steel, you don’t need to worry about rust or corrosion.
Cons
- Not Smokeless: Lacks a smoke-reducing airflow system.
- Frequent Wood Refilling: Wood must be cut to size to fit inside.
How We Evaluated the Best Portable Fire Pits
To determine the top portable fire pits for RVing, we assessed each model based on the following criteria:
- Smokeless Performance: Ideally, a portable fire pit should produce minimum smoke. Smokeless fire pits are ranked higher for reducing campfire smoke inhalation and creating a more pleasant experience. Although our third choice (UCO) produces smoke, it is, however, super budget-friendly.
- Portability: A portable fire pit should be easy to transport and store in an RV. We considered weight, packed dimensions, and handles, and included carry bags. Lightweight, collapsible models scored extra points.
- Durability: A fire pit meant for RV use should ideally withstand frequent outdoor use and high temperatures. We included fire pits made of stainless steel or which are enamel-coated. These finishes indicate better longevity.
- Ease of Use: How simple is the fire pit to set up, light, control, and clean? Models with quick assembly, accessible fuel ports, adjustable airflow, and removable ash pans received higher marks.
- Value: A portable fire pit is not inexpensive. We assessed whether pricier models were worth the extra investment and if budget options delivered decent functionality. We went through the portable fire pit reviews on retail websites to find out what users felt about the product.
Light Up Your Campsite with the Best Portable Fire Pit
When shopping for a portable fire pit for your RV, consider which features matter most to you, such as smokeless technology, cooking capabilities, or packability. Just be sure to practice fire safety and follow local regulations. For tips on building the perfect campfire, check out our in-depth guide.
