6 Best Lighters for RV Propane Stoves That Nomads Swear By

You’re parked at a windy overlook, the coffee pot is ready, but your cheap gas station lighter sputters and dies. We’ve all been there, fumbling with matches or a finicky lighter while the simple act of making breakfast becomes a frustrating chore. In a space as small and self-reliant as an RV, the tools you depend on daily aren’t just conveniences; they’re essential gear. And few tools are more fundamental than the one that brings your stove to life.

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Why a Reliable RV Stove Lighter is Essential

A good lighter is about more than just creating a flame; it’s about safety and consistency. RV propane stoves often lack the piezo igniters found in home ranges, and even when they have them, they’re notoriously prone to failure. Relying on a book of matches is a recipe for burnt fingertips and a galley that smells like sulfur, especially when you’re trying to reach a pilot light at an awkward angle.

The conditions inside an RV are constantly changing. Humidity can make matches useless, and a simple draft from an open window can extinguish a weak flame before it even reaches the burner. A purpose-built lighter with a long reach keeps your hands clear of the initial "whoosh" of propane ignition. This isn’t just a gadget; it’s a piece of safety equipment that ensures you can cook a meal reliably, whether you’re weathering a storm in the desert or dealing with morning condensation in the mountains.

BIC Multi-Purpose Lighter: The Classic Go-To

There’s a reason you see a BIC multi-purpose lighter in almost every RV galley drawer. It’s the definition of simple, reliable technology. There are no batteries to charge or fuel canisters to refill—you buy it, you use it until it’s empty, and you grab another one on your next supply run. Its long wand makes lighting stove burners, water heaters, and campfires safe and easy.

This lighter is the ultimate baseline. It works, it’s cheap, and you can find it anywhere from a hardware store to a grocery store. The downside, of course, is that it’s disposable, creating unnecessary waste. It also struggles in windy conditions, as the flame is just a standard butane flame. But as a primary lighter or a no-fuss backup, the classic BIC is a tool every nomad should have on board.

RONXS Arc Lighter: Windproof & Rechargeable

Electric arc lighters feel like something from the future, but they solve a very old problem: wind. Instead of a flame, these lighters create a small, high-intensity plasma arc between two electrodes that is completely windproof. For anyone who has ever tried to light a camp stove on a breezy beach, the benefit is immediately obvious.

The RONXS is a popular choice because of its flexible neck and USB rechargeable battery. In an RV, where 12V and USB power are abundant, keeping it charged is simple. You never have to worry about buying fuel or dealing with disposables. The main tradeoff is that it requires power; if your house batteries are dead, so is your lighter. It’s also specifically for ignition—it doesn’t produce a sustained flame, so it’s less useful for tasks like melting the end of a rope.

Sondiko Butane Torch: Power for All Conditions

Sometimes, you need more than just a flame; you need focused, intense heat. A butane torch lighter like the Sondiko is the powerhouse of the RV kitchen. Its jet-like flame is not only wind-resistant but also hot enough for a variety of tasks beyond lighting the stove. You can use it to perfectly sear a steak, toast marshmallows in seconds, or even handle small repair jobs like soldering a wire in a pinch.

This versatility is what makes it a nomad favorite. Why carry three tools when one can do the job? The flip side is that it’s overkill for just lighting a burner, and it burns through butane much faster than a standard lighter. You’ll need to keep a can of butane refill on hand, which is another item to store. But for those who value multi-function tools, a reliable torch is an indispensable part of their kit.

Scripto Aim ‘N Flame II: A Dependable Backup

Much like the BIC, the Scripto Aim ‘N Flame II is a classic for a reason. It’s a straightforward, utterly dependable disposable lighter that you can trust to work when you pull it out of a drawer after six months. Its design is simple, with a comfortable grip and a long wand that keeps your hands safe. It’s the kind of tool that has no learning curve and no surprises.

So why have one if you already have a BIC or a fancier rechargeable model? Because redundancy is key to a smooth nomadic life. Every system needs a backup, and your fire-starting system is no exception. The Scripto is the perfect lighter to tuck into your emergency kit, your glove box, or your outdoor cooking bin. It’s cheap enough that you won’t mind having a few stashed away, ensuring you’re never left without a flame.

SUPRUS Electric Lighter: A Modern Nomad’s Tool

The SUPRUS electric lighter takes the concept of the arc lighter and refines it for daily use. With features like a battery level indicator and a safety switch to prevent accidental activation, it’s designed for the modern RVer who appreciates thoughtful design. Its rigid, long neck provides a sturdy reach, and like other arc lighters, it’s completely windproof and USB rechargeable.

This lighter appeals to those who are building a fully integrated, tech-savvy rig. If you’ve already optimized your power systems with solar and lithium batteries, a rechargeable tool like this just makes sense. It eliminates the need to carry flammable butane canisters and reduces waste. The primary consideration is its singular focus: it’s an igniter, not a source of sustained flame. But for its intended purpose of lighting stoves, candles, and grills, it’s a sleek and highly effective solution.

Icfun Jet Lighter: Refillable and Budget-Wise

For the nomad who balances performance with practicality, a refillable jet lighter is a fantastic middle ground. The Icfun is a great example of a compact, powerful, and budget-friendly option. It produces a wind-resistant torch flame that’s more than capable of lighting a stove in a breeze, but in a smaller, more pocket-friendly package than a full-size culinary torch.

The key advantage here is sustainability and long-term cost savings. Instead of throwing away a plastic lighter every few months, you simply refill it from a can of butane. This drastically reduces waste and costs pennies per refill. The process can be a little tricky at first, but once you get the hang of it, it becomes second nature. It’s a small step toward a more self-sufficient and less wasteful life on the road.

Key Features for Your Next RV Stove Lighter

Choosing the right lighter comes down to your specific needs and travel style. There’s no single "best" option, only the best option for you. As you decide, think about these key features and how they align with your life on the road.

• Fuel Source: Do you prefer the convenience of USB charging (electric arc) or the off-grid reliability of a fuel you can store (butane)? Or do you favor the grab-and-go simplicity of a disposable?
• Wind Resistance: If you frequently cook outside or in drafty conditions, a windproof arc or torch lighter is practically non-negotiable. For indoor-only cooks, a standard flame is often sufficient.
• Reach: A longer wand or neck is a critical safety feature. It keeps your hands away from the burner during ignition, preventing singed knuckles.
• Refillable vs. Disposable: Are you aiming to reduce waste and be more self-sufficient? A refillable butane or rechargeable electric model is the way to go. If simplicity and universal availability are your priorities, disposables still have their place.
• Versatility: Consider if you need a tool just for the stove or something that can also start a damp campfire, shrink-wrap electrical connections, or sear a crème brûlée. A powerful torch offers multi-functionality that a simple igniter can’t match.

Ultimately, the smartest approach is to not rely on a single lighter. Most seasoned nomads carry at least two: a primary, rechargeable or refillable lighter for daily use, and a simple, disposable one like a BIC or Scripto tucked away as a bulletproof backup. That way, no matter what happens, you’ll always be able to get the stove going for that essential morning cup of coffee.