Matches are handy for everyday and outdoor tasks when you need a quick flame.

• At home: Light candles, incense, fireplaces, fire pits, or grills.
• Outdoors: Start campfires or stoves (follow local fire rules and campground guidelines).
• Hard-to-reach spots: Long matches can help light deep candle jars or grills safely.
• Emergency kits: A small box can be useful for power outages or camping.
• Decorative setups: Decorative safety matches pair with candles for gifting or display.

Always use matches in a well-ventilated area, away from flammable materials, and follow the instructions on the package. You can shop a range of types and pack sizes online or in stores.

A matchstick is a small wooden or paper stick with a flammable tip that ignites from friction.

• Safety (strike-on-box) matches: Ignite only on the box’s striker strip, offering controlled lighting.
• Strike-anywhere matches: Can ignite on a suitable rough surface; use with care and follow package directions.
• Long-reach matches: Extra length helps keep your hand farther from flames for grills and fireplaces.
• Water-resistant and wind-resistant options: Designed to perform better in harsh outdoor conditions.

Matches come in a variety of lengths and pack counts to fit home, travel, or camping needs. Store them in a cool, dry place and keep out of reach of children and pets.

For camping, consider matches designed to handle the elements and make fire-starting easier.

• Water-resistant or wind-resistant matches: These can help when conditions are damp or breezy.
• Longer sticks: Extra length offers more burn time and distance from kindling.
• Protective storage: Keep matches in a waterproof container and keep striker surfaces dry.
• Backup plan: Carry a secondary ignition source and fire starters as a contingency.
• Local rules: Always follow campsite fire regulations and practice Leave No Trace principles.

Walmart carries a variety of outdoor-friendly matches and pack sizes, available online or in the camping and household aisles.

Using matches with care can help reduce accidents and protect your space.

1. Prepare the area: Clear flammables, ensure ventilation, and keep water or sand nearby.
2. Grip and strike: Hold the match away from your body and strike away from you using the box striker.
3. Control the flame: Keep the flame below eye level; shield it from wind with your hand, not your body.
4. Light the target: Touch the tip to the wick or kindling, then move your hand back promptly.
5. Extinguish fully: Douse or pinch out the flame, ensure it’s cold before discarding.

Keep matches out of reach of children and pets, and always follow the instructions on the packaging.

Proper storage helps matches stay reliable and reduces risk.

• Cool, dry location: Moisture can reduce performance; avoid bathrooms and humid areas.
• Original packaging: Keep matches in their box with the striker intact and protected.
• Away from heat and sunlight: Don’t store near stoves, heaters, or windowsills.
• Out of reach: Place on a high shelf or in a locked cabinet, away from children and pets.
• For travel or camping: Use a waterproof, crush-resistant container and keep striker surfaces dry.

Some transportation methods may restrict matches; if traveling, review carrier guidelines ahead of time.