I bought some small plastic vials about matchcase size and put my PJ cotton balls in them. I pack them in there tight and put on the lid. It is water and air proof when closed. I have tried the cotton balls after a year packed like that and they worked perfectly. Since they are packed in there, I use a small stick to pluck them out when needed.

I learned to carry at least 3 fire making methods with me. I carry the Light My Fire ferro rod, some strike anywhere matches in a very old Boy Scout matchsafe and I carry a Zippo lighter, freshly filled before leaving home. I usually have a mini Bic and perhaps an aluminum Sparklite also on me somewhere. I yake the PJ cotton balls and the TinderQuik with the Sparklite. So, fire is not a problem.