Playing with Fire: Are Bonfires & Campfires the Same Thing?
People often use the word Bonfires and campfires interchangeably. They are both forms of outdoor fires, so it is definitely not odd for such a mistake to be made. So what could be the difference? Although they both have similarities, they differ in size and purpose.
Campfires are small and contained, usually in a fire pit. It is usually used to provide warmth, light, heat for cooking, and entertainment on a campout. On the other hand, a bonfire is a large fire used for a broader range of purposes. Also, both bonfires and campfires are built differently.
To help you confidently name your next fiery form of entertainment, all you need to know about bonfire vs. campfire will be discussed in this article.
What is a bonfire?
The bonfire is a large, outdoor, controlled fire. It is usually built in an open area far from bushes, shrubs, and trees that could catch fire. Beaches, fields, and meadows are the typical spots to build a bonfire. To control their spread and protect the environment and surroundings, they are kept away from flammable wood.
In the time of the Celts, they held festivals where they would burn animals’ bones to scare off evil spirits. Bonfires have many spiritual rituals tied to them. The name is derived from ancient civilisations that would create a “bone fire” to honor deities. Some ancient groups worshiped fire and created a bonfire for their religious use. Other communities hold bonfires to celebrate their saints.
Due to their large size, bonfires help dispose of waste, such as old furniture, unused wood, or even your kid’s homework. That’s one way to get called a cool parent! Until now, people still light bonfires on special occasions and holidays.
How to make bonfires
You can start by marking the area with rocks or other non-flammable materials. After that, dig a pit containing the flame. You’ll also need a large burn area, so ensure you have all the necessary permission before starting. To start a bonfire, you’ll need tinder and kindling.
The fuel, such as sawdust, paper, or twigs, catches the initial flame from the Firestarter. Kindling includes large sticks or small wood strips that change from sticks to fuelwood. You can prepare for the entire fire once the kindling starts burning.
What is a campfire?
Campfire refers to small fires built on a campout. Usually, the fire is contained in a pit or fire ring so that people can safely surround it for hanging out, cooking, and warmth. A campfire provides light and protection from bugs.
Campfires are helpful for cooking and warmth when out in the woods. Also, they are used to scare off wild animals, mosquitoes, and other pests to keep your campgrounds comfortable. Although they do not have a celebratory religious purpose like bonfires, many fun songs and games connect to them.
How campfires are made?
Even though a campfire is a minor fire, safety is still vital. Always build a campfire in a fire ring or pit away from brush, trees, and tents. Once a safe fire ring or fire pit is built, then you can proceed with building the campfire.
You should bring kindling, wood shavings, or cardboard strips to help start your fire. Tinder, kindling, and wood are the three types of wood you need to start a campfire. Use a match to light your stick, then slowly add kindling and let it catch fire. After that, add wood in a teepee style around the kindling and tinder.
Ensure to extinguish the fire completely before going to sleep or leaving the campground. This is essential as even a little unquenched fire can lead to a dangerous uncontrolled fire.
Conclusion
Campfires and bonfires may supply heat and light, but they have significantly different uses and terms of size. However, ensure to take every safety precaution when starting both bonfire and campfire to avoid an unnecessary fire hazard.
New and Used Motorhomes
View our range of new and used motorhomes for sale.