We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Survival Candles 2026 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Candlelife 115-Hour Emergency Survival Candles - Long Burning, Unscented, Clean Burning Liquid Paraffin (Set of 6) for Blackouts, Camping, Fishing & Survival.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,177
Burn Time
Wick Type

Most important from
710 reviews

Burn Time
These candles burn steadily for a long time and maintain high quality throughout their use.
Wick Type
Setting the wicks to light can be a bit confusing at first, but the performance justifies the effort.

The Candlelife 115-Hour Emergency Survival Candles come in a set of six and are designed for long-lasting light during emergencies, camping, or outdoor activities. Each candle burns for an impressive 115 hours, providing reliable light without frequent replacements. Made from liquid paraffin, they burn cleanly without smoke, odor, or dripping, which helps keep the air fresh and reduces mess. These candles are unscented, making them suitable for those sensitive to fragrance or looking for neutral lighting.

They come in a compact metal container that’s lightweight and portable, weighing about 4.66 pounds for all six, making them easy to carry on hikes or fishing trips. The single wick offers a steady flame, but since they are not specially designed for extreme weather, they might not perform as well in very windy or wet conditions without extra protection. Their size and burn time make them ideal for anyone preparing for power outages, natural disasters, or people who enjoy outdoor activities and need dependable, clean light.

The main drawbacks are that they don’t have weatherproof features and are bulkier than some smaller emergency candles, requiring a bit more storage space. These candles deliver a dependable, mess-free light source that suits a variety of survival and outdoor needs.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,177
Burn Time
Wick Type

Most important from
710 reviews

Burn Time
These candles burn steadily for a long time and maintain high quality throughout their use.
Wick Type
Setting the wicks to light can be a bit confusing at first, but the performance justifies the effort.
#2

100 Hour Candle Pack of 6, Emergency Candles for Power Outages, Hurricane Storm Survival, and Camping, Liquid Long Burning Candles, Bulk Emergency Candle Supplies

Rating
9.1
Burn Time
Material
Size and Weight

Most important from
56 reviews

Burn Time
These candles deliver an impressive 100-hour burn time, making them ideal for extended emergencies or outdoor use.
Material
The clean-burning design ensures no messy wax drips and a smokeless, odorless flame for comfortable indoor use.
Size and Weight
Their compact, durable plastic containers make them easy to store and carry, perfect for prepping or camping.

These emergency candles are designed to provide long-lasting light and warmth, boasting an impressive burn time of 100 hours per candle, which makes them excellent for extended power outages, storms, or camping trips. They use clean-burning liquid paraffin wax contained in plastic cartridges, which helps prevent messy drips and wax spills, a practical feature for outdoor or on-the-go use. Since the flames are smokeless and odorless, they offer a pleasant experience without harsh smells, which can be important for indoor use during emergencies.

Each candle is relatively compact and lightweight (about 0.63 pounds and 4 by 3.25 inches), making them easy to store or carry in bulk. The minimalist plastic container is durable and weather-resistant enough for outdoor use. The pack of six provides ample supply, suitable for those who want to be well-prepared or need multiple lights for different spaces. These candles have no added scent, which means they won't contribute to any aromatic ambiance beyond their light.

This set is a practical choice for those seeking reliable, long-burning candles that are clean and easy to handle during emergencies or outdoor activities.

Rating
9.1
Burn Time
Material
Size and Weight

Most important from
56 reviews

Burn Time
These candles deliver an impressive 100-hour burn time, making them ideal for extended emergencies or outdoor use.
Material
The clean-burning design ensures no messy wax drips and a smokeless, odorless flame for comfortable indoor use.
Size and Weight
Their compact, durable plastic containers make them easy to store and carry, perfect for prepping or camping.
#3

Sterno 100-Hour Emergency Candles - Long Burning Unscented Candles for Emergencies and Power Outages - Burns Up to 100 Hours - Set of 6 - Clean Burning Liquid Paraffin

Rating
9.1
Burn Time
Material
Size and Weight

Most important from
544 reviews

Burn Time
The burn time reliably matches the advertised 100 hours, providing dependable light throughout extended outages.
Material
The sturdy plastic container prevents leaks and tipping, making the candles safe and durable for use inside vehicles or unstable environments.
Size and Weight
The size and quality strike a great balance, delivering solid value without being too expensive or cheaply made.
Scent
They burn cleanly without any scent or smoke, ideal for those sensitive to fragrances or needing odorless lighting.

The Sterno 100-Hour Emergency Candles are designed to be reliable light sources during power outages, storms, or other emergencies. Their standout feature is the very long burn time of up to 100 hours, which means fewer replacements and longer-lasting light in critical situations. Made from liquid paraffin contained in a durable plastic container, these candles burn cleanly without smoke or any added scent, making them suitable for users sensitive to fragrances or who want odorless lighting. The sturdy plastic container also helps prevent tipping and breakage, adding a safety element especially helpful indoors or in unstable conditions. Each candle is a round container candle about 3.5 inches wide and 4 inches high, weighing just under half a kilogram each, making them reasonably portable but somewhat heavier compared to smaller emergency candles.

These candles are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use but are not designed to be weatherproof for heavy rain or strong winds, so some shelter would be needed outdoors. The set includes six candles, providing a good supply for extended emergencies or multiple uses. They represent a solid choice for anyone needing dependable, long-lasting emergency lighting that prioritizes clean, safe burning without fragrance.

Rating
9.1
Burn Time
Material
Size and Weight

Most important from
544 reviews

Burn Time
The burn time reliably matches the advertised 100 hours, providing dependable light throughout extended outages.
Material
The sturdy plastic container prevents leaks and tipping, making the candles safe and durable for use inside vehicles or unstable environments.
Size and Weight
The size and quality strike a great balance, delivering solid value without being too expensive or cheaply made.
Scent
They burn cleanly without any scent or smoke, ideal for those sensitive to fragrances or needing odorless lighting.

Buying Guide for the Best Survival Candles

Survival candles are essential items for emergency preparedness, outdoor adventures, and situations where reliable light and heat are needed. When choosing a survival candle, it's important to consider various specifications to ensure you select the best fit for your needs. Here are some key specs to look at and explanations to help you make an informed decision.
Burn TimeBurn time refers to the duration a candle can stay lit. This is crucial because longer burn times mean extended periods of light and heat, which can be vital in survival situations. Burn times can range from a few hours to several days. If you need a candle for short-term use, a few hours might suffice. For extended emergencies, look for candles with burn times of 24 hours or more.
MaterialSurvival candles can be made from various materials, including paraffin wax, beeswax, and soy wax. Paraffin wax is common and affordable, but it can produce soot. Beeswax burns cleaner and longer but is more expensive. Soy wax is eco-friendly and burns cleanly but may not last as long as beeswax. Choose a material based on your priorities, such as cost, burn cleanliness, and burn duration.
Size and WeightThe size and weight of a survival candle are important for portability and storage. Smaller, lighter candles are easier to carry in a backpack or emergency kit, while larger candles may provide longer burn times but are bulkier. Consider how you plan to use the candle and whether portability or burn duration is more important for your situation.
Wick TypeThe wick type can affect how evenly and reliably a candle burns. Cotton wicks are common and provide a steady flame, while wood wicks can create a larger flame and crackling sound. Multi-wick candles can offer more light and heat but may burn faster. Choose a wick type based on your preference for flame size, burn consistency, and overall candle performance.
Weather ResistanceWeather resistance refers to a candle's ability to withstand various environmental conditions, such as wind, rain, and humidity. Some survival candles are designed to be windproof or waterproof, making them more reliable in harsh conditions. If you plan to use the candle outdoors or in unpredictable weather, look for features that enhance weather resistance.
ScentWhile not a critical survival feature, the scent of a candle can impact your comfort and morale. Unscented candles are ideal for those who prefer a neutral smell or have sensitivities. Scented candles can provide a pleasant aroma and may help mask other odors in a survival situation. Choose based on your personal preference and any potential sensitivities.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now