Written by Bernie Carr
Have you heard of the hack of using corn chips as firestarter? Long time readers know I always try a survival hack before recommending it. I read about this hack online so I thought I’d give it a try last time I went camping.
I used a handful of Fritos regular corn chips and placed them on top of some tinder. I then used a match to light it.
Did it work?
Yes it did! I corn chips caught fire right away, then the tinder ignited as well.
I thought that was pretty cool so I thought I’d share it with you.
What Makes Corn Chips a Good Firestarter?
1. High Oil Content
One of the primary reasons corn chips can work as a firestarter is their high oil content. Corn chips, especially those that are fried, contain a significant amount of oil which is highly flammable. This oil can help catch and sustain a flame, making it easier to get a fire going.
2. Easy to Ignite
Corn chips are relatively easy to ignite compared to other materials. Their thin, crispy texture allows them to catch fire quickly when exposed to a flame. This makes them a viable option for starting a fire in a pinch.
3. Compact and Lightweight
Corn chips are lightweight and compact, which makes them easy to carry along on camping trips, hikes, or emergency survival kits. Unlike bulky fire-starting tools, a small bag of corn chips can be a convenient addition to your gear.
How to Use Corn Chips as a Firestarter
Using corn chips as a firestarter is straightforward. Follow these simple steps for effective results:
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
- A bag of corn chips (any brand will work, but choose a type with high oil content)
- A source of ignition (matches, lighter, or a fire starter tool)
- Kindling and tinder for your fire
Step 2: Prepare Your Fire Area
Ensure you have a safe, designated area for your fire. Clear away any flammable materials and set up your kindling and tinder in a structure that promotes airflow.
Step 3: Place Corn Chips
Arrange a few corn chips on top of your kindling. You don’t need a lot—just enough to get the fire started.
Step 4: Ignite the Corn Chips
Using your source of ignition, light the corn chips. The oil content should help them catch fire quickly.
Step 5: Add Kindling and Fuel
As the corn chips burn, they will help ignite the kindling and eventually larger pieces of fuel. Continue to add kindling and then gradually move on to larger logs.
Advantages of Using Corn Chips as a Firestarter
**1. Effective and Efficient
Corn chips can be surprisingly effective for starting a fire due to their oil content and easy ignition. They provide a reliable flame source to help get your fire going.
**2. Cost-Effective
If you already have corn chips at home, this can be a very inexpensive fire-starting solution. Even if you need to purchase them, they are generally low-cost compared to commercial fire starters.
**3. Sustainable Use of Leftovers
If you have a bag of old corn chips that are stale or past their prime, using them as a firestarter is a great way to avoid food waste.
Limitations of Corn Chips as a Firestarter
Of course if you have actual firestarter such as Wet Fire (I’ve tested that as well), then by all means, use that. Using corn chips is just a useful hack to know about in case you find yourself without firestarter. Here are the issues you could run into:
**1. Limited Burn Time
Corn chips have a relatively short burn time compared to specialized fire starters. They are best used as an initial ignition source rather than a long-term fuel solution.
**2. Messy
Corn chips can be greasy and crumbly, which might leave a mess. Make sure to handle them carefully and clean up any crumbs or residue.
**3. Not Ideal for All Conditions
Corn chips may not work well in extremely wet or windy conditions. For such situations, more robust fire-starting methods may be necessary.
Other Unconventional Firestarters to Consider
If you’re intrigued by unconventional fire-starting methods, here are a few other ideas to explore:
- Pine Cones: Easy to ignite and great for adding a pleasant aroma to your fire.
- Egg Cartons: Fill with sawdust or dryer lint for a cost-effective firestarter.
- Toilet Paper Rolls: Can be stuffed with lint for a quick ignition source.
FAQs
Can I use any type of corn chips as a firestarter?
While any corn chips can work, those with higher oil content and a greasy texture are more effective.
How many corn chips do I need to start a fire?
A few corn chips should be enough to help ignite your kindling. You don’t need a large quantity.
Can corn chips be used in wet conditions?
Corn chips are not ideal for wet conditions as they might be less effective if they become damp.
Are there any safety concerns when using corn chips as a firestarter?
Ensure you use corn chips in a controlled environment and follow standard fire safety practices to avoid accidents.
What are some other DIY fire-starting methods?
Other methods include using dryer lint, egg cartons, or pine cones, all of which can serve as effective and inexpensive fire starters.
By exploring these unconventional methods, you can enhance your outdoor experiences and be prepared for any fire-starting challenges you might face.
Conclusion: Does Using Corn Chips as a Firestarter Work?
In summary, corn chips can indeed work as a firestarter. Their high oil content, ease of ignition, and convenience make them a practical option for starting a fire in various situations. While they may not be the most durable fire-starting material and could be a bit messy, they offer a unique, cost-effective, and sustainable solution for your fire-starting needs.
Whether you’re an avid camper, a survivalist, or just curious about alternative methods, giving corn chips a try might be a fun and useful experiment. So next time you’re packing for an outdoor adventure or looking for ways to repurpose food items, consider adding corn chips to your fire-starting toolkit!
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About the author
Bernie Carr is the founder of Apartment Prepper. She has written several books including the best-selling Prepper’s Pocket Guide, Jake and Miller’s Big Adventure, The Penny-Pinching Prepper and How to Prepare for Most Emergencies on a $50 a Month Budget. Bernie’s latest e-book, FRUGAL DIY has just been released on Amazon. Her work appears in sites such as the Allstate Blog and Clark.com, as well as print magazines such as Backwoods Survival Guide and Prepper Survival Guide. She has been featured in national publications such as Fox Business and Popular Mechanics. Learn more about Bernie here.
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