Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 Review: Smoke-Free Campfires with a Sleek, Portable Upgrade

The Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 is the much-anticipated upgrade to Solo Stove’s best-selling original fire pit. This portable, stainless steel unit brings the warmth and ambience of a traditional fire—but without the smoke, mess, or bulk of a conventional pit. Thanks to its double-wall construction and secondary combustion system, the Bonfire 2.0 promises efficient, nearly smokeless fires that burn hotter and cleaner.

In this long-term review, we explore how the Bonfire 2.0 performs in the real world, from backyard settings to remote campsites. We’ll cover its materials, burn performance, new features (like the removable ash pan), portability, accessories, and value for money—helping you decide if this iconic fire pit deserves a spot in your outdoor setup.

Key Specifications

Design & Build Quality

Sleek, Durable, and Purpose-Built

The Bonfire 2.0 is built from high-grade 304 stainless steel, which gives it a premium look and feel while ensuring long-term durability. The surface resists corrosion, warping, and weather-related wear—and after repeated firings, it develops a patina that adds character without compromising function.

• The double-wall construction is solid and seamless
• Laser-cut vent holes are precisely machined
• The carry case is minimalist but functional, with reinforced stitching and handles

This is a fire pit designed for both looks and longevity. Whether it’s placed on a patio, gravel pad, or campsite, it gives off a high-end, no-nonsense vibe that suits both minimalist and modern aesthetics.

Performance & Burn Quality

Low Smoke, High Heat, and Minimal Waste

What sets the Bonfire apart is its 360° Airflow Design, which draws oxygen through lower vents and feeds it into the double-wall system. As the fire heats, warm air rises and mixes with smoke at the top, igniting any remaining particulates and creating a secondary burn.

In practice, this means:

• Fast, clean ignition with good kindling
• Fires that burn hotter and more efficiently, reaching full blaze within 5–7 minutes
• Drastically reduced smoke, even with moderate-quality wood
• Minimal ash left behind (unlike traditional pits)

It burns so completely that logs are reduced to fine ash, making post-fire clean-up much easier than most open pits or fire bowls.

The Removable Ash Pan (2.0 Feature Highlight)

One of the biggest upgrades in the 2.0 version is the removable ash pan—a game-changer for clean-up.

• The internal base plate lifts out easily
• Ash pan underneath collects debris from extended burns
• Cleaning takes less than 60 seconds (compared to awkward tipping in the original)

This upgrade fixes the one major complaint with the original Bonfire, making the 2.0 version much more user-friendly for regular use.

Portability and Setup

Ready to Use, Wherever You Are

At just over 10 kg, the Bonfire 2.0 is not exactly ultralight—but it’s portable enough for car camping, campervans, and back garden storage. There are no pieces to assemble, no bolts or moving parts—just pull it from the bag, place it safely, and start your fire.

• Ideal for drive-up camping or tailgating
• Base stays cool enough underneath for use on sand or pavers (with caution)
• No tools or extra components required

If you’re planning regular use in different locations, you might want to invest in the optional stand, which adds a layer of heat shielding for decks and grass.

Accessories & Compatibility

Expand Your Fire Pit’s Capabilities

Solo Stove offers a suite of accessories designed to enhance the Bonfire experience:

• Bonfire Stand – Raises the stove to protect sensitive surfaces
• Cast Iron Cooktops & Hub – Add-on grill and griddle plates for open-flame cooking
• Shield & Spark Guard – Keeps embers from escaping on breezy nights
• Heat Deflector – Reflects warmth downward for cooler weather gatherings
• Lid or Shelter Covers – Protect from weather or store with embers extinguished

While none of these are required, they add versatility for those who want cooking integration or enhanced safety for kids and pets.

Real-World Use Cases

Where the Bonfire 2.0 Shines

• Backyard Evenings: Sets up in under 5 minutes and creates an inviting atmosphere for small gatherings.
• Camping: Portable enough to toss into the trunk for weekend trips.
• Beach Nights: Burns cleaner than beach bonfires; just bring split wood and a base.
• Winter Warm-Ups: The secondary combustion system radiates heat effectively for seated groups.

Note: If you’re looking for a fire pit for cold-weather heat, it’s radiant but not directional—you might want to consider the Heat Deflector accessory.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Nearly smoke-free burning
• Durable stainless steel construction
• Fast, clean ignition and secondary combustion
• Removable ash pan for easy clean-up
• No assembly required
• Works with standard firewood
• Excellent portability for car-based adventures

Cons

• Premium price compared to budget pits
• No built-in cooking grate
• Not suitable for coal or pellet fuels
• Exterior gets hot—requires supervision around children/pets
• Needs dry, seasoned wood for best results

Comparison: Bonfire 2.0 vs Breeo Y Series vs BioLite FirePit+

Final Verdict: Is the Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 Worth It?

If you’re after a beautifully designed, easy-to-use, and impressively efficient fire pit, the Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0 is hard to beat. The combination of smoke reduction, quick setup, and clean burn makes it an ideal choice for campers, vanlifers, and backyard hosts alike.

While it isn’t the cheapest option on the market, the Bonfire 2.0 justifies its price tag with refined engineering, durable construction, and the clever addition of a removable ash pan.

Bottom line: It brings the magic of a traditional campfire—without the smoke in your eyes or mess on your patio.