The 7 best camping coffee makers
Table of Contents
For many, a morning in the great outdoors isn’t complete without a steaming cup of coffee. As the sun rises and nature awakes, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee can elevate the entire camping experience. Whether it’s a quiet morning by the lake or a brisk start before a hike, the right camping coffee maker can make all the difference. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best one? In this guide, we’ll explore the top camping coffee makers available on Amazon, ensuring that your next adventure is fueled by your perfect cup of coffee.
Best way to make coffee when camping
When you’re in the great outdoors, making coffee can be a unique part of your adventure. Here are some popular methods:
French press
- Pros: Rich flavor, simplicity of use, no need for electricity.
- Cons: Requires coarse ground coffee, more cleanup.
Pour-over
- Pros: Control over brewing, light to pack.
- Cons: Requires a steady hand, filter disposal.
Percolator
- Pros: Great for larger groups, robust flavor.
- Cons: Can be bulky, careful monitoring needed to avoid over-extraction.
Single-serve coffee bags
- Pros: Convenient, no equipment needed.
- Cons: Limited flavor options, generates waste.
Portable espresso makers
- Pros: For espresso lovers, compact designs.
- Cons: Requires hot water, can be expensive.
Each method has its charm and challenges. Your choice may depend on how much you prioritize convenience, flavor, or equipment weight.
Best 7 camping coffee makers: Reviews & Recommendations
Best for Espresso lovers: AeroPress Coffee and Espresso Maker
The AeroPress is a unique brewing system that combines the benefits of French Press and espresso making. It's known for its rapid, full-flavored coffee. For solo campers or small groups who love rich, espresso-like coffee.
- Efficient extraction, yielding smooth, rich coffee without bitterness
- Extremely portable and durable, ideal for camping
- Versatile brewing options for espresso and regular coffee
- Only brews small quantities at a time
- Requires AeroPress paper filters, which means carrying extras
Best versatility: Stanley Adventure All-in-One Boil + Brew Camping French Press
This all-in-one solution allows you to boil water and then directly brew your coffee in the same vessel. For group campers who value durability and multi-functionality.
- Sturdy and durable, made of stainless steel
- Can be used over a camp stove or grill
- Large capacity, suitable for groups
- Relatively heavy, not ideal for lightweight backpacking
- The metal body can get quite hot
Best portable: Wacaco Nanopresso Portable Espresso Maker
A hand-powered espresso maker for those who can't live without a real espresso, even in the wilderness. For Espresso enthusiasts who want quality shots on the go.
- Compact and lightweight, making it highly portable
- Produces a quality espresso shot with good crema
- No batteries or electricity needed
- Requires practice to master the espresso-making process
- Needs hot water prepared separately
Best lightweight: GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip
A minimalistic pour-over coffee maker that is ultralight and highly portable. Ideal for minimalist campers or backpackers who enjoy pour-over coffee.
- Simple to use and clean
- Takes up very little space in your pack
- Compatible with standard #2 and #4 filters
- Requires a steady hand for pouring
- You need to bring your own filters and ground coffee
Best for large group: Coleman QuikPot Propane Coffee Maker
Ideal for larger groups or basecamps, this propane-powered coffee maker brews a full pot quickly. Ideal for family camping, car camping or any outdoor scenario where group coffee needs are high.
- Makes a lot of coffee quickly – up to 10 cups
- Works well in areas without electricity
- Durable and easy to use
- Requires propane canisters, which add to the weight
- Bulky, not suited for lightweight camping
Best budget pick: Primula Brew Buddy Portable Pour Over
An affordable and very portable pour-over coffee maker that is simple to use. Top choice for budget-conscious campers and solo travelers who needd a simple, no-fuss coffee maker.
- Budget-friendly, compact, and lightweight
- Easy to clean and maintain
- No need for paper filters
- Coffee flavor might not be as strong as other methods
- Requires a careful pour to avoid spills
Best for rv campers: Keurig K-Mini Coffee Maker
The Keurig K-Mini is a compact and efficient single-serve coffee maker, ideal for the limited space in RVs. You are a RV campers looking for a quick, hassle-free coffe solution that fits well in small spaces? Keurig is for you!
- Space-saving design
- Fast and easy to use
- Accommodates various cup sizes
- Requires electricity
- Limited to using compatible pods
Best Coffee Mugs for Camping
A great coffee mug is as important as the coffee maker itself when camping. Here’s what to look for:
- Insulation: Keeps your coffee hot for longer periods, especially important in outdoor settings.
- Durability: Look for mugs made from materials that can withstand the rigors of camping.
- Ease of Cleaning: Easy-to-clean mugs are essential, as resources may be limited in the outdoors.
- Portability: Compact and lightweight mugs are preferable for ease of packing.
Now, let’s review some top choices:
- YETI Rambler Mug: Best for Insulation
- GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker Mug: Best Lightweight Option
- Hydro Flask Coffee Mug: Best for Durability
- Sea to Summit X-Mug: Best Collapsible Mug
Each of these mugs offers unique features suited for the diverse needs of campers, ensuring your coffee experience is as enjoyable as the adventure itself.
Our final conclusion
From the tranquility of dawn in the wilderness to the cozy confines of an RV, a good cup of coffee can be a highlight of your camping experience. We’ve explored a range of coffee makers and mugs, each with its unique features to suit different styles of campers.
After enjoying a warm cup of coffee in the great outdoors, why not enhance your relaxation with one of the best camping rocking chairs? Discover our full selection in our ultimate guide.
Whether you’re a solo backpacker needing a compact solution, an RV traveler seeking convenience, or a group looking for a communal coffee pot, there’s an option for everyone. Remember, the best camping coffee maker is the one that fits your personal needs and enhances your outdoor adventures. Happy brewing!