5 Best Camping Coffee Makers for Your Next Trip
No more sacrificing your morning coffee when you’re off the grid. Portable, convenient and efficient, the right coffee maker means you can take your coffee with you. We’ve tested and chosen the best camping coffee makers for those who won’t let the great outdoors get in the way of their caffeine fix. Pack light and sip happy as we bring you the ultimate guide to coffee makers for the wanderer.
Quick Hits
A good camping coffee maker should be light, portable, do multiple brewing methods and be easy to use and clean.
The 5 best camping coffee makers, including AeroPress Go, GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip and others, offer a range of brewing styles and conveniences for all types of outdoor enthusiasts.
To get coffee while camping, store your beans properly, use the right water temperature and grind size or opt for instant coffee for a quick caffeine hit.
How to Choose the Best Camping Coffee Maker
A good day in the great outdoors starts with a good cup of coffee. This is a morale booster and game changer for you, your crew or just to warm you up. But what makes a camping coffee maker great?
The answer is:
Portability
Weight
Brewing method
Ease of use
These are the key to a good coffee making experience while camping, so choosing the right one is important.
A camping coffee pot or coffee maker should have:
Be light and portable
Easy to pack and carry on your outdoor adventures
Do multiple brewing methods to suit your coffee tastes
Easy to use and clean up so you can spend more time enjoying the view
Let’s dive in.
Portability and Weight
When you’re backpacking, cycling or paddling every ounce counts. The coffee maker you choose for your outdoor adventures needs to be light and compact, designed to fit into your backpack or luggage. The GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip and Wacaco Nanopresso are great examples, weighing 0.3 oz and 12.35 oz respectively.
The design of the coffee maker can also help with portability. The MSR MugMate for example nests into some mugs and most coffee pots so it’s super portable. Collapsible designs like the Sea to Summit X-Brew Collapsible Camping Coffee Dripper reduce their size when not in use and save packing space. The key is to find a coffee maker that’s not just light but also compact so you can take it with you anywhere for that perfect cup of coffee on the go.
Brewing Method
The brewing method is another important consideration when choosing a camping coffee maker. I mean people can get pretty geeky about this. It’s an art form for sure. Camping coffee makers should be able to do multiple brewing methods for outdoor activities where resources may be limited. For example the Sea to Summit X-Brew has a simple pour-over brewing process, prioritising flavour and ease of use. The percolators like the Bialetti Moka Express Espresso Maker do a traditional brew method for a strong brew for small or large groups.
Then there are the versatile coffee makers like the AeroPress Go that can brew American style, espresso style coffee and cold brew coffee so you have options for multiple drinks. And in the absence of any brewing equipment cowboy coffee can be made with just a kettle or pot and coffee grounds. This brew method is all about your personal preference, group size and resources.
Ease of Use and Clean-up
When you’re in the wild simplicity is key. A camping coffee maker should be easy to use with a straightforward brewing process that doesn’t require a lot of time or expertise. Coffee makers like the AeroPress Coffee Maker allow for quick disposal of coffee grounds and minimal washing so cleanup is fast. The MiiR Pourigami’s design allows for a simple wipe down after use so cleaning is easy.
And some coffee makers don’t require a filter, you just add coffee grounds and make pour over coffee. This simplifies the brewing process and reduces waste making them perfect for outdoor activities. It’s all about finding the balance between a great cup of coffee and ease of use and clean-up. After all you’re in the wilderness to enjoy nature not to mess with complicated gear.
5 Best Camping Coffee Makers
Now that we’ve covered the factors to consider when choosing a camping coffee maker it’s time to reveal our top picks. We’ve put together a list of the top 5 camping coffee makers that tick all the boxes, portability, ease of use and great brews.
These are:
AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Press
GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip
Snow Peak Collapsible Coffee Dripper
Jetboil Flash Java Kit
Stanley Adventure All-In-One Boil + Brew French Press
Whether you’re solo or part of a group, whether you like a strong espresso or a smooth Americano there’s a coffee maker on this list for you. Let’s dive into the details of each of these top rated camping coffee makers and see what makes each one special.
AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Press
The AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Press is for adventure.
It has:
Compact and lightweight design, 11.4 oz
Microwaveable mug and lid that doubles as a travel case
Great for coffee on the go
The AeroPress Go uses a unique brewing method that combines pour-over, French press and pneumatic press to produce a smooth, full bodied coffee with no bitterness. Cleaning is easy with the plunger that wipes the chamber clean and top-rack dishwasher safe.
Whether you’re hiking, car camping, biking or just having a picnic the AeroPress Go means a hot cup of coffee is never more than a few minutes away.
GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip
Next up is the GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip, a coffee maker that gets high marks for portability and brewing capacity. The nylon filter and three leg design make it super light and portable for campers. Despite being light it doesn’t sacrifice brewing capacity so it’s great for larger camping groups.
The Java Drip has:
#2 and #4 filter size compatibility for flexibility
Portability and capacity for solo or large groups
A cup of coffee every time
Snow Peak Collapsible Coffee Dripper
Durability meets portability in the Snow Peak Collapsible Coffee Dripper.
Here’s what it has:
Stainless steel construction
Built for outdoor use
Collapsible design, super portable and packs small
For campers and travelers
The Snow Peak Collapsible Coffee Dripper, a great alternative to a full coffee percolator or coffee pot has:
Cone shaped design for finer coffee grounds
Compatible with Chemex and Hario V60 filters
Durability and portability for outdoor adventures
If you’re looking for a durable, portable and versatile coffee maker for your outdoor adventures the Snow Peak Collapsible Coffee Dripper is the way to go.
Jetboil Flash Java Kit
The Jetboil Flash Java Kit takes the all-in-one cooking and coffee brewing concept to the next level. The silicone coffee press stows away inside the cooking cup so you don’t need any extra brewing gear. With 9000 BTU/h power output the Jetboil Flash Java Kit is designed for fast boiling for 1-2 people.
I take my Jetboil Flash or one of my basic french presses with me on all my emergency deployments. It’s a must to be good at coffee making in EMS and these are my favorite brew method.
The Java Kit also has a thermochromatic color-change heat indicator and pushbutton igniter for easy and fast boiling. Whether you’re cooking a hot meal or brewing a cup of coffee the Jetboil Flash Java Kit has you covered so it’s a must have for your own stove or camping gear.
Stanley Adventure All-In-One Boil + Brew French Press
Last is the Stanley Adventure All-In-One Boil + Brew French Press. This coffee maker aka coffee pot is made from stainless steel or titanium and has a rugged design for outdoor use. It uses a simple brewing method that doesn’t require paper filters so it’s convenient and eco-friendly by reducing waste.
Perfect for small groups during camping trips the French press is a great solution for a rich cup of coffee. It requires more cleaning than other camping coffee and tea makers but the coffee is worth the extra effort.
How to Brew Great Coffee While Camping
Having the right camping coffee maker is only half the battle. The other half is in the art of brewing great coffee in the wild. From how you store your coffee to the water temperature and grind size every detail of making coffee matters. So how do you get a great cup of coffee on your camping trips?
Here are some expert tips for brewing great coffee while camping. These tips will help you get the most out of your camping coffee maker and your overall coffee making experience in the wild.
Coffee Storage
Proper coffee storage is key to keeping the coffee fresh and flavorful. Coffee beans and grounds need to be kept fresh while camping to have a great cup of coffee. To keep fresh and prevent degradation coffee beans should be stored in a dry, cool and dark place.
Pre-ground coffee is especially prone to going stale and should be stored in airtight containers while camping to keep out moisture and air. The Airscape Coffee Canister with a patented two-way valve is a great option for storing coffee beans while camping. If you only need to carry the amount of coffee grounds for a brew the BruTrek CarGo Can is a great portable solution.
Water Temperature
Water temperature is key to your brew coffee. The ideal water temperature for brewing coffee is 195-205 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal extraction. If the water is too cold you’ll get flat under-extracted coffee and if the water is too hot you’ll lose the flavor of the coffee and that’s the whole point of coffee.
When brewing manually it’s recommended to:
Let the water boil then let it rest for a minute before you pour hot water over the grounds to get to the correct temperature.
Use a thermometer to maintain the ideal temperature.
Consider using an infrared laser thermometer for an easy way to measure the temperature from a distance.
Grind Size- put in scene from black hawk down or meme***********
All coffee drinkers can agree or disagree on the grind. The grind size of your coffee matters.
Here are some key points to remember:
Too fine a grind will lead to over-extraction and bitter taste.
Too coarse a grind will result in under-extraction and weak flavor.
A consistent or medium grind is key to the flavor compounds being released during the brew cycle.
Inconsistent grinds will produce uneven extraction.
For no brewing issues and optimal extraction a medium-coarse grind is often recommended which is like the texture of sea salt or rough sand. A burr grinder is the best way to get a consistent grind size which is key to a balanced flavor profile in the brewed coffee. Adjust the grind size to compensate for temperature changes when brewing outdoors.
Here are some tips:
Use a medium-coarse grind for optimal extraction.
A burr grinder is recommended for a consistent grind.
In colder conditions use a finer grind.
Instant Coffee for Camping
For those who want convenience and portability instant coffee is a game changer. Instant coffee is especially good for camping because:
Lightweight and compact
Less time to prepare and clean up
Simplified preparation through freeze-drying or spray drying brewed coffee
Less weight to carry which is critical for camping logistics.
Instant coffee has many options from traditional brands to modern and specialty roasts to suit your taste. Whether you like plain black coffee or with added sweeteners or cream there’s an instant coffee out there for you.
Let’s look at the benefits of instant coffee and some popular brands for outdoor use.
Benefits of Instant Coffee
The convenience of instant coffee is hard to beat, just pour over hot water. But especially when camping it has several advantages:
No brewing equipment required, no mess to clean up.
You can have a cup of instant coffee without having to wake up earlier just to brew coffee.
Instant coffee is one of the lightest options out there, easy to pack and adds minimal weight to your gear.
Face it, it doesn’t get any easier; camp stove+hot water+instant coffee= deliciousness with no stress.
The packaging of instant coffee is designed to be waterproof and rugged to withstand outdoor conditions. Whether you’re backpacking in the mountains or camping by the beach a packet of instant coffee can be a lifesaver, a quick and hassle free cup of coffee whenever you need a caffeine fix.
Popular Instant Coffee Brands
Campers can choose from many instant coffee options including those with added sweeteners, cream or plain black coffee to suit their taste. Coffee drinkers will find that specialty instant coffees have elevated their taste profile, with coffee that tastes like fresh coffee, full bodied and rich to smooth and balanced.
Popular brands for camping like Folgers and Starbucks VIA offer instant coffee for the masses.
Boutique brands like Voila Coffee offer specialty roasts for the coffee connoisseur. Whatever your taste, you’ll find an instant coffee to suit your taste and camping style.
Accessories to take your camping coffee to the next level
To take your camping coffee to the next level:
Insulated travel mugs to keep your brew hot
Portable coffee grinders to get the perfect grind
Reusable filters for a more sustainable coffee brewing process
Let’s check out these accessories and see how they can take your camping coffee from meh to amazing.
Insulated Travel Mugs
An insulated travel mug is a camper’s best friend if you want your coffee to stay hot. It keeps your coffee hot during outdoor activities, so your drink stays at the right temperature while you’re in the wilderness. The OtterBox Elevation is the best overall insulated travel mug for camping because of its easy to use lid for hot liquids and stability enhancing bottom heavy design and it’s BPA free.
If you’re in colder climates the CamelBak Horizon Camp Mug is the one with the most insulation capacity. The GSI Outdoors Glacier Camp Cup is a good cup in a lightweight and classic design but less insulation than the higher end models.
If this is your first cup, go to walmart and look for a rigid design, vacuum sealed, double walled car camping cup. They’re about twenty bucks and they work great.
No matter where you camp an insulated travel mug is a must have accessory to have a hot cup of coffee anytime, anywhere.
Portable Coffee Grinders
A portable coffee grinder is another coffee essential. It lets you grind your coffee beans to the perfect size so you get a perfect brew every time. The TIMEMORE C3 PRO Manual Coffee Grinder has high quality stainless steel burrs and a lightweight aluminum alloy body so it’s durable and compact for camping.
For campers on a budget the Olrid Coffee Grinder is a budget friendly option without sacrificing the outdoor coffee grinding experience.
With a portable coffee grinder you can have fresh ground coffee while camping and take your outdoor coffee to the next level.
Reusable Filters
While paper filters are used in coffee brewing reusable filters are an eco friendly option.
Some benefits of reusable filters:
Made from certified organic cotton and don’t affect the flavor of the coffee.
Reduce waste and are more eco friendly.
Can last a year or more and are cost effective.
The CoffeeSock filters design allows the acids to pass through and some of the oils so the coffee tastes like paper filters but without the paper taste. If you’re looking for a more sustainable and cost effective way to brew coffee while camping reusable filters are worth a try.
Conclusion
Now you have the right camping coffee maker and some accessories you’re ready to have a great cup of coffee on your next camping trip. From lightweight and portable to easy to use and clean up the perfect coffee maker can really make your outdoor experience. And with the extra tips on coffee storage, water temperature and grind size brewing coffee in the great outdoors is a snap.
So whether you’re an experienced camper or planning your first trip ever make room for a camping coffee maker in your gear. After all there’s nothing better than sipping a great cup of coffee while taking in the beauty of nature.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been sent to a location where it’s desolate and cold and miserable. That hot cup of coffee in the morning… and noon… and sometimes night instantly lifts your mood and morale. A luxury.
Happy brewing, and happy camping!
FAQs
What to consider when choosing a camping coffee maker?
When choosing a camping coffee maker consider portability, weight, brewing method and ease of use. Look for a lightweight, compact one that supports multiple brewing methods and is easy to clean.
Why is grind size of coffee important?
Grind size of coffee is important because it affects the taste of your brew. It can lead to over extraction or under extraction if not adjusted properly and affect the final flavor of the coffee.
What are some accessories to add to your camping coffee?
Add to your camping coffee an insulated travel mug, portable coffee grinder and reusable filters for a more eco friendly brewing process. These will make your outdoor coffee kit complete!
What are the benefits of instant coffee for camping?
Instant coffee is perfect for camping as it’s lightweight, compact and easy to use, no brewing equipment or clean up needed. Enjoy your trip!
How to store coffee while camping?
Store your coffee beans or grounds in a dry and cool place while camping to preserve flavor. Use airtight containers to store pre ground coffee from moisture and air.
How to power your camping coffee maker?
Use a portable generator but only if your generator is rated for the power requirements of the coffee maker you’re using. See Top Portable Generators for Camping for more info on powering your camping adventure.
Thanks and happy camping!
Stay Rugged!
