I'm sorry to point out the obvious to those of you who know, but for the first-time camper building a good fire can often be a challenge. These are my trusted methods, materials and tips that work (nearly) every time.

1. Make a small pyramid with your tinder and kindling putting the thinnest, driest most flammable things on first and leaving a gap in the sticks to light the tinder from.

2. Build up your pyramid with bigger sticks remembering to leave the gap.

3. If you are unsure as to whether your fire will start, it is best to light it now and see whether it takes. Once most of the material is starting to burn, begin to add your biggest sticks and logs. Otherwise, continue your pyramid with the bigger sticks and logs and then light.