The crackling warmth of a campfire, the rustling whispers of the forest, and the fresh scent of pine – nothing quite encapsulates the magic of camping out in nature like a roaring fire. No surprise then that I was interested in, and recently decided to try out the BioLite FirePit+. This clever device has since added a new dimension to my camping adventures, and today, I’d like to share some of my experiences with this intriguing piece of equipment.
The BioLite FirePit+ is designed with mesh sidewalls and a removable battery pack which has a built in fan, that fan in turn provides a more controlled and efficient burn. The fan injects air into the fire through strategically placed holes in the fire chamber. This forced airflow stokes the fire, resulting in a more complete combustion, which in turn reduces smoke output. The fan speed can be adjusted depending on your preferences, with higher speeds allowing for rapid ignition and lower speeds providing a gentle, almost inaudible hum while maintaining a relatively smokeless fire. You control it either via the physical buttons on the battery pack, or via the app.
Starting a fire really is a breeze, no pun intended, as you can use the fans to speed up the process. In addition, the mesh sidewalls give you a great view of the fire, especially after the sun sets, when you are basically left with the view of a floating fire. Beyond that, I really appreciate about the BioLite FirePit+ is its potential as a cooking apparatus. From grilling traditional camping food to trying out pizza rolls, the FirePit+ offers an interesting spin on outdoor cooking. Especially when using the available accessories like the griddle and grill lid, I was able to create some great meals that add another dimension to the camping experience with that great taste of food cooked over a fire. There are some really good solutions here, such as the ability to move the grill out of the way when you need to add more wood – just don’t add to much at a time.
The BioLite FirePit+ is also a nice option for those who subscribe to the leave-no-trace philosophy, allowing users to enjoy the warmth and ambiance of a fire while minimising their impact on the environment. You can have a fire without leaving a burn mark on the ground. Furthermore, the FirePit+ can be a decent choice for families with children, providing a relatively safe and quick way to start a fire for roasting marshmallows in the evening, even if it is just in your own back yard.
Battery life on the BioLite FirePit+ has proven to be good, lasting through four fires on a single charge. The optional carry bag accessory simplifies transportation of the FirePit+ and its add-ons. Not only is the bag suitable for storing and carrying the FirePit+ and its accessories, but it can also be used to transport firewood.
As an added benefit, the BioLite FirePit+ promotes somewhat efficient wood burning, meaning you can enjoy your fire for a longer period without exhausting your wood supply too quickly. However, it’s important to note that this device does come with a higher price tag, especially once you start adding accessories. That being said, the possibilities offered by the BioLite FirePit+ may justify the initial investment for some users.
In conclusion, the BioLite FirePit+ has introduced a new level of versatility to my outdoor experiences, combining a relatively eco-friendly approach with a unique take on campfire cooking. As I sit by the fire, the forest surrounding me in its calming embrace, I can’t help but appreciate the added dimension the FirePit+ brings to my camping trips. For those who enjoy the great outdoors and are open to trying something new, the BioLite FirePit+ could be an interesting addition to your camping gear.