Is there a way to prevent a Zippo from drying out, or do you just have to refill it before every outing?

I have my Dad's old Zippo lighter - I found it among his things after he died and asked Mum if I could keep it - but have never really used it for anything.

Would vacuum sealing it work, or would the fuel just evaporate anyway?

I would try putting some Zippo lighter fluid,Very small amount in a Zip Lok bag,& Leave it for a Few days,constantly checking it,to see if it eats the bag or dissipates Rapidly! Probably Best to place it outside,in a Safe/Dry area.Zippo's leak,regardless of how/where they are carried,But they are Very Effective for their intended Purpose's! Good luck!

If I were absolutely determined to use a zippo lighter in a survival kit, I would probably keep it stored dry with a small can (I know 4 oz. cans are available) of zippo lighter fluid stored with it. Which would probably take up the space of three or four butane disposable lighters. Tim

That's very nice kit, ireckon. I like how it's built around that big candle. It should definitely buy you some time.

It might be worth a try to stage a snowboarding mishap under safe controlled conditions and put it to test.

I tested the kit in Tahoe at a ski resort two weeks ago when it was raining and somewhat windy, with snow on ground. Raining conditions is more of a challenge than snowing conditions in my experience. I was able to light the candle by using a Bic and a windshield made from my hands and jacket. I have heard that butane lighters (not Bics) have problems at high altitude. In contrast, I had no problem lighting a plain Bic at high altitude, but note that lighting a Bic in a wind is difficult.

I did not try to light the cotton balls, inner tube or trick candles. I figured those would be no more difficult than the candle. I also did not try to light a fire by using the ferro rod. Hey, I was mainly out there just to have some fun in the snow. I'll try the ferro rod next time. Maybe it will be easier than the Bic. Who knows?