Pick wood that’s dense and seasoned, not the quick‑burn pine scraps you find in a park. Look for a ring of gray bark, a few knots for that crackle, and a scent that says it’s been breathing in the woods for months. Pack a spare firestarter, a small set of flint, and a note that says “never trust a smartphone for this” just in case the GPS tries to redirect your flames. For romance, set up a low fire pit, string a few cheap twine lights, and bring a blanket that’s not too soft—so if the wind blows, you’ll have to stay alert. The stars will do the rest, but remember: the real spark comes from the effort you put into the fire, not the flicker of a romantic glow.