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Best Fire Pits

Best Fire Pits 2025

Heat up your garden with the warm glow of a fire pit, as we count down the best ones
Outdoor Heating Ideas

Outdoor Heating Ideas

There's more ways to keep warm outdoors than you might think, take a look at what we found
Pop Up Fire Pits as Stove

Not everyone has the space to dig a hole in the garden or place a large gas fire pit table on their patio.

Sometimes you just need a small pop up fire pit to take with you to your friend’s garden, bring out to a beach cookout, or simply fold out of the shed on a cold evening.

That’s why we take a look at all the different types of pop up fire pits that you can flatpack, put in a bag and chuck in the car when you need to go have a beer outside with your buddies or find a moment alone when hiking.

What is the Overall Best Pop Up Fire Pit?

What are the features we look for in the best portable fire pits? Well, the most important things are practicality and safety.

  1. It has to be lightweight. Ideally 10 lbs or less.
  2. Quick and easy to set up and break down
  3. Material that allows it to cool down quickly
  4. Good airflow for less smoke
  5. Large base to provide heat and warmth
  6. Fire mesh and safety features to protect from fire

We are assuming that for now, you want a fire pit that’s not a BBQ fire pit. We’ve got more below, but this is about finding a mobile fire pit that gives you that warm cosy glow and provides safety and warmth.

The trick to finding the best portable fire pit is to find one that suits your needs – whether that’s beach parties, winter fireworks, or small intimate evenings.

Pros

  • Easy to set up and put down
  • Big powerful heat
  • Safe and easy to use
  • Good airflow for less smoke
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • Not for BBQs
Fireside Outdoor Portable Fire Pit for Camping

This 24" portable fire pit weighs just 8 lbs, assembles in 60 seconds, and includes a weather-resistant bag. Made from durable materials, it offers a cleaner, hotter fire with minimal smoke.

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Lightweight Flatpack Fire Pits for Hikers

Now we will put a small disclaimer before you buy a small portable steel fire pit. Make sure you place this on a heat resistant mat or fireproof material (think stones, gravel, dirt with no burning material etc…)

Lightweight and flatpack, this is for those of you who need to put something in the backpack without the extra kilos or space getting in the way.

Generally, if you are going for a flatpack fire pit, you will need to sacrifice size. These tend to be generally better for one person.

But at the end of the day, you still want the basics to be true – you want this to be safe and easy to use. Make sure you read up on how to safely get a fire started, but buying a small little fire pit to keep the fire contained is a good place to start.

Pros

  • Small and compact
  • Easy to use
  • Lightweight
  • Flatpack fire pits

Cons

  • Make sure you safely set up the area before you set up the fire pit
CAMPINGMOON Portable Camping Fire Pit Stainless Steel with Carrying Bag

This portable stainless steel grill doubles as a stove and fire pit, perfect for camping and BBQs. Weighing 9.5 lbs, it folds compactly, sets up in seconds, and offers adjustable heat control.

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Mini Portable Propane Fire Pits for a Quick Burn

Sometimes referred to as camping gas stoves, these tend to be basic but quick to set up when you just want an open flame in your garden or when camping.

Portable gas fire pits won’t give out a whole load of heat because they are mostly made for cooking. That said if you want that open flame feel, without the hassle of using flint, wood or tinder, getting a mini propane fire pit may just be a quick solution.

It may not be as romantic, but you also won’t smell like a forest fire at the end of the evening.

The best portable gas fire pit will be small, easy to set up, lightweight and (more importantly) provide a bright and controllable open flame that will still give you a cheery glow and let you toast marshmallows.

As a bonus make sure it has a high heat efficiency and is efficient in its full burning so you don’t run out of gas quickly.

Pros

  • Small and compact
  • Light and portable
  • Quick to light up and use
  • Can be used for cooking or on tabletops

Cons

  • You need to buy gas
  • doesn’t provide a huge amount of heat
Odoland 6800W Windproof Camping Gas Stove, Portable Outdoor Camping Furnace

This 6800W camping stove boils water in 2 minutes, features a windproof design, is compatible with various gas canisters, and is foldable, portable, and perfect for outdoor cooking and activities.

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Portable Tabletop Fire Pit

Needless to say, not everyone has space or the willingness to set up a large fire on their patio or garden.

If what you want is a portable wood burning fire pit, then go for one designed specifically for camping. These are made to look like gas camping stoves, but they run on wood – mostly twigs, leaves and paper.

It means you don’t have to buy large amounts of wood or have a wood store in the back garden to feed your fire. Simply bring a bag with you when you next head to the forest and start picking up small pieces of bark, woods and twigs.

Of course, these will need to be properly seasoned and dry (ie. keep the bag indoors in a well ventilated warm space) to ensure you don’t produce a large amount of smoke when you use your portable tabletop fire pit.

Alternatively, buy a coffee or eco-log and break it up into small pieces to feed your fire.

Pros

  • Uses small kindling, branches, bark and twigs
  • Easy to set up and get started
  • Looks pretty on a table
  • Can be used for cooking or heat
  • Good airflow for smoke-free fire

Cons

  • Small heat
  • Requires fairly constant feeding
SOLEADER Portable Wood Burning Camp Stoves

This compact, lightweight wood stove features a smokeless gasification design, stable pot support, and an open-mouth fuel system. Made of durable stainless steel, it uses natural fuel for an eco-friendly camping experience.

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Portable Fire Pit BBQ for Camping

If a tripod hanging grill seems like too much effort, and you don’t mind sacrificing looks for practicality, you can find some very useful foldable BBQ fire pit grills for all your outdoor needs.

These tend to be a little more flexible because they are made from stainless steel and can use different fuel sources as they are completely self-contained – the ash pan should prevent any burned fuel from touching or scorching the ground.

So if you would rather use coal, alcohol, wood, branches or a mixture, these portable popup BBQ fire pits are for you.

Just make sure it distributes the heat evenly and you can use this handy little gadget for both warmth and food.

Pros

  • Distributes the heat evenly to provide heat from all over
  • Safe to use on all ground
  • You can use multiple fuel sources
  • Foldable and easy to carry

Cons

  • Not pretty
  • Cooks for 3 to 4 people only
Smokeless Fire Pit, Stainless Steel Wood Burning Stove with Portable Carrying Storage Bag

This smokeless, portable fire pit features a modular stainless steel design with a glass window for flame viewing. It assembles in 20 seconds, includes a travel bag, and offers easy cleanup.

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Classic Pop-up Fire Pits you Can Store Away Easily

Are you raising your eyebrow at us and telling us that most of these don’t look the part?

Well, you’re not wrong. A classic fire pit will have that beautiful cast iron look and an oval shape that brings you back to a time long gone.

But these are rarely portable (heavy) or easy to store away (again heavy AND large).

The solution is to find something in between, and preferably something that won’t break the bank.

The best you can find is a classic fire pit look with foldable legs that reduce the size by half. These will be made of alloy or steel because you need to be able to pick them up and put them away.

A carry case is what makes these popup fire pits portable and easy to store away. You won’t be able to take these hiking, but if you are looking for something to put in the back of the car that will be stylish, provide heat, and is safe, you can’t go wrong with this style of fire pit.

Pros

  • Traditional look and feel of a classic fire pit
  • Budget-friendly
  • Carry case
  • Foldable legs

Cons

  • Good for putting in the bag of the car, but larger than most of the portable fire pits on this list
Fire Sense 60873 Fire Pit Portable Folding Round Steel with Folding Legs

This 22" portable folding fire pit features a heat-resistant steel bowl, mesh screen, log and cooking grates, and a carrying bag. No tools required—folds easily for effortless transport and storage.

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An Alternative Fire Pit in a Box

If you’re after the camp fire, fire pit feel for a little added warmth but without the need to grill then you can opt for what essentially is a really big candle.

Made from soy wax, each one gets up to an impressive 5 hours burn time providing enough heat to keep a couple warm when camping, at the beach or anywhere that you can’t light a proper larger fire pit.

Plus they are extremely portable, smoke free and provide added ambience.

Radiate 4 Pack XL 8" Portable Campfire As Seen On Shark Tank - Up to 5 Hours of Burn Time

This extra-large, portable campfire offers up to 5 hours of smoke-free burn time. Made from recycled soy wax, it's reusable, easy to use, and perfect for outdoor adventures or backyard gatherings.

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Can you find a good portable cheap fire pit?

If none of our selection fit your budget so far, don’t worry, there are cheap fire pits out there for camping, hiking or just to quickly have a fire going off the ground.

The cheapest option is to go with a rollable stainless steel net and folding legs fire pit. This is as basic as it comes short of starting a fire on the actual ground.

We could recommend you think carefully about where you’ll place this budget fire pit as many of the safety features we could look for (mesh guard, protective bowl shape etc…) won’t be included in this design.

What you do get is a quick and easy way to set up a fire off the ground which takes up little to no space in storage. And sometimes that’s all you need.

Pros

  • Cheap portable fire pit
  • Easy to disassemble and set up
  • Great to keep fire off the ground

Cons

  • No mesh guards so keep an eye on those embers
  • Light but not great with windy conditions.
ActDoer Portable Outdoor Fire Pit - 17 inch Collapsible Fire Pit with Storage Bag

This lightweight, portable fire pit features a detachable design, easy tool-free assembly, and durable stainless steel construction. Ideal for camping, picnics, and BBQs, it includes a carrying bag for convenience.

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What do you put under a portable fire pit?

You may be a newbie when it comes to buying a fire pit, or this is your third or fifth fire pit in as many years. Whatever your reason for getting a small portable outdoor fire pit if there is one accessory we could recommend, it’s a fire retardant mat.

They are not always needed. Mostly these are useful for smaller fire pits and stoves where the fire, ash or embers may escape out of the pit.

As a bonus, these are great to protect your patio, especially if you have a wooden patio or stone prone to discolouration due to heat.

If you are camping or hiking in wet environments, these heat mats can also help take away some of the moisture from the ground or (equally) protect you during the dry seasons.

In short, it’s a must-buy if you are just starting to play with fire.

AiBOB Fireproof Under Grill Mat, 48 X 65 in Fire Pit Mats Protects Decks and Patios

AiBOB grill mat withstands up to 1700°F, protecting decks and patios from heat, oil stains, and burns. Made of heat-resistant fiberglass and silicone, it's easy to clean and fits multiple grills.

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Where is the best place to buy a fire pit?

We’ve given you plenty of ideas of what to look for when you buy a fire pit, but at the end of the day nothing beat reading pop up fire pit reviews to make sure you have the best choice.

Here you will find some great portable fire pits who have been reviewed by thousands of Amazon customers who, like you, needed to find the perfect fire pit for their home.

So whether you need a folding fire pit that stores away easily or a portable fire pit for camping, these little gems above will give you everything you need to get that warm glow from summer to winter.

FAQs

What is a pop-up fire pit?

A pop-up fire pit is a lightweight, collapsible fire pit designed for easy transport and storage. It provides a safe, portable way to enjoy a fire while camping, tailgating, or in small outdoor spaces.

How does a pop-up fire pit work?

Pop-up fire pits use a sturdy frame and heat-resistant mesh or metal base to contain wood or charcoal. The open design promotes airflow for efficient burning and reduced smoke output.

Are pop-up fire pits safe for camping?

Yes, pop-up fire pits are designed for outdoor use and often meet USFS and BLM fire pan regulations. Many models include heat shields to prevent ground damage, making them a safe option for campsites.

What are the benefits of a pop-up fire pit over a traditional fire pit?

Pop-up fire pits are portable, easy to set up, and space-saving. They reduce smoke, burn fuel efficiently, and leave no trace, making them an eco-friendly alternative to permanent fire pits.

Can I cook on a pop-up fire pit?

Many pop-up fire pits support grilling with optional cooking grates. Some models are compatible with cast iron pans, allowing you to cook meals while camping or tailgating.

What fuel can I use in a pop-up fire pit?

Most pop-up fire pits are designed for burning wood, charcoal, or eco-friendly fire logs. Always check the manufacturer's recommendations to ensure safe and efficient use.

Are pop-up fire pits smokeless?

While not completely smokeless, many pop-up fire pits promote airflow that burns fuel more efficiently, reducing smoke output compared to traditional fire pits.

How do I clean and store my pop-up fire pit?

Let the fire pit cool completely, remove ashes, and wipe down the frame. Many models come with carrying bags for easy storage and transport.

Can I use a pop-up fire pit on a wooden deck?

It depends on the model. Some pop-up fire pits include heat shields to protect surfaces, but it’s always best to place a fireproof mat underneath when using on a deck.

Where can I buy a pop-up fire pit?

Pop-up fire pits are available online from retailers like Amazon and camping gear stores. Be sure to compare features and read reviews before purchasing.

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