When it comes to smoking, it has been part of human culture for centuries, and today’s smokers have access to countless cigarette brands. Whether you prefer a smooth, mild smoke or something with a stronger kick, there’s a cigarette out there for everyone.
A lighter is usually used to light up. Small, convenient, and trustworthy. What happens when your lighter dies, is misplaced, or stops working? Instead of panicking or running to an emergency store, you can use everyday items around you to light a cigarette. Here are 10 practical methods for every situation, whether you’re at home, outdoors, or on the road.
1. Make Use of the Stove
One easy option when you’re at home is to use your cooking stove. Heat a burner up, and then carefully touch your cigarette’s tip to the flame. Hold it still to avoid getting burned. This method works quickly, but watch out for things that could catch fire, especially if they are close by.

2. Make Use of a Candle
A candle is an excellent option if you have one of that. Hold the cigarette so that it is toward the flame. Technique that is silent and controlled. Hold the tip of your cigarette close to the flame of the candle for a few seconds in order to light it. Candles, which can burn continuously without the need for matches, are ideal for use at outdoor events and camping trips.
3. Make Use of Matches
One traditional method of lighting a cigarette is using a match. All you have to do is tap the box with a match and wait for it to light. To light your cigarette, place the match on top of the tobacco and take a slow breath in. Make sure to keep matches in a dry place to prevent any mishaps.
4. Make Use of Car Lighter
If you drive, your car’s cigarette lighter (now often called a power outlet) is a smoker’s best friend. Push in the lighter element and wait about few seconds until it pops out. The metal coil will be glowing red-hot. Press your cigarette tip against the heated coil until it lights.
If you’re taking public transportation or driving, this is the way to go. Always wait for the lighter to cool before re-inserting it, and keep your fingers away from the hot element.

5. Make Use of Home Appliance Heat
A hot surface of your household appliances like an oven or toaster works too. Heat the oven or toaster, then carefully touch your cigarette to the heating element. This can be harmful if not done properly. Avoid utilizing this procedure in a hurry and make sure there are no flammables nearby.
6. Make Use of a Campfire or BBQ
If you’re outdoors, a campfire or BBQ can be a great way to light your cigarette. Just hold the cigarette near the flames and let it catch fire. This method works great during outdoor gatherings, camping trips, or backyard cookouts. It’s also a social activity—passing around stories while someone lights up from the communal fire adds to the experience. Just be mindful of sparks and keep a safe distance from the main flames.
7. Make Use of Magnifying Glass
It sounds like something from a survival show, but this method does work on sunny days. Shine the sun on the end of your cigarette until it starts to burn. It takes some time and the right conditions for this method to work, but it can be very useful. Having your smoke outside is a fun way to connect with nature.

8. Lighting with a Battery and Aluminum Foil
This is useful in some situations. Use gum bag aluminum foil and a AAA or AA battery. Make a half-inch foil strip. Narrow the middle. Attach the foil strip’s ends to the battery’s positive and negative ends. The little center section heats quickly and lights cigarettes.
9. Make Use of Flint and Steel
If you enjoy the outdoors, you might have flint and steel on hand. Strike the flint against the steel to create sparks, then bring your cigarette close to the flames. This traditional method is great for survival situations, but it requires practice to master. It’s also a great way to impress fellow smokers with your resourcefulness.
10. Make Use of an Incense Stick
Any kind of stick can be used to light a cigarette. Place your cigarette close to the lit end of the incense and light one end of it. This method improves the smoking experience by adding a pleasant smell that helps create a relaxing atmosphere. Besides that, it’s a great way to get the benefits of aromatherapy while you puff.
Tips and Hints for safety
- Keep Flammable Things Away: When using flames or hot surfaces, make sure there are no flammable things close.
- Be Aware of Your Environment: Light your cigarette in a safe spot to keep yourself from getting hurt.
- Be Careful Around Hot Things: You should always be careful around heat sources, like a stove, toaster, or even a bonfire.
- Avoid Alcohol: If you’ve been drinking, be extra careful when starting a cigarette to stay safe.
FAQs about Canada Cigarettes
Q1. Does the Way It’s Lit Change How It Tastes?
Yes, the way you light your cigarette can change the first puff. Using a lighter or matches, for example, can help keep the taste of the tobacco by creating a clean flame. On the other hand, using a hot surface or other unusual ways could add flavors that you don’t want. If you think the taste is off, try different ways of lighting to see which one you like best.
Q2. How Many Cigarettes in a Pack?
Typically, a pack of cigarettes contains 20 cigarettes. Keep this in mind when purchasing to ensure you have enough for your needs. Additionally, be aware of local regulations regarding cigarette sales and smoking.
Q3. What Are the Regulations Related to Cigarette Lighting in Canada That I Need to Pay Attention To?
In Canada, while there are no specific laws about how you light a cigarette, there are important regulations about where you can smoke. Most provinces and territories have strict smoke-free laws that prohibit smoking in enclosed public spaces, workplaces, and within a certain distance (usually 3-9 meters) from doorways, windows, and air intakes of public buildings.
Q4. Can I Buy Lighters and Smoking Accessories Online in Canada?
Sure! When you purchase cigarettes from online dealers in Canada, many also offer smoking accessories including lighters, matches, ashtrays, and cigarette cases. Buying these items together with your cigarette order can save you money and ensure you always have a reliable way to light up. Check with your online cigarette retailer about available accessories and bundle deals.
Q5. Is It Legal to Smoke in My Car in Canada?
In most Canadian provinces and territories, it’s legal to smoke in your personal vehicle if you’re alone or with other adults. However, it’s illegal to smoke in a vehicle with anyone under 16 present in most of Canada, and with anyone under 19 in Nova Scotia. The car lighter method mentioned in this guide is perfectly legal to use when you’re allowed to smoke in your vehicle. Always check your specific provincial regulations as they can vary.
Conclusion
You can keep smoking during your break even if you run out of lighter juice. To light a cigarette without a lighter, you can use ten tried-and-true ways, such as a magnifying glass, a candle, or even an incense stick. There are methods that work well at home, in the great outdoors, and in case of an emergency. Safety comes first, no matter what way is taken. Don’t leave a machine on while it’s being used, and keep anything that can catch fire away from fire. Nobody needs to get burned or start a fire.You should look into other ways to light cigarettes to become more independent and ready. You’ll never be without a light with these different types of lights, no matter where you are or what kind of cigarette you’re smoking.