As a self-proclaimed coffee connoisseur, it’s only fitting that I spend years trying to uncover the best gear and method for making tasty coffee while camping.
After all, it doesn’t get much better than waking up in the woods and enjoying a hot cup of coffee first thing.
Whether you’re a backcountry minimalist or a glamping enthusiast, the right coffee-making gear can elevate your outdoor experience.
In this round-up, we’ve compiled years of trial and error when it comes to dialing in the best way to make coffee while camping: from ultralight pour-overs to insulated french presses and everything in between.
No matter your setup or style, there’s a perfect brew method waiting to join your next adventure. You can skimp on a lot of things while camping, but coffee shouldn’t have to be one of them.
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5 Best Ways to Make Coffee While Camping
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FAQ’s for Making Coffee While Camping
What Is the Easiest Way to Make Coffee While Camping?
The easiest way to make coffee while camping is using instant coffee. Instant coffee requires no special gear — just hot water and a mug. Options like Alpine Start offer better flavor than traditional instant (in my opinion), making it a quick, no-mess solution that’s perfect for early mornings or minimalist setups.
How Do You Keep Coffee Hot While Camping?
To keep coffee hot while camping, use an insulated mug like the REI Graphic Camp Mugs or a vacuum-sealed thermos like the Stanley Vaccum Bottle. These containers are designed to retain heat for hours, even in cold conditions.
While enamelware is a classic camp choice, keep in my it won’t keep your coffee warm.
Where Is the Best Place to Buy Camping Gear?
The best place to buy camping gear is REI thanks to its wide selection of high-quality products, knowledgeable staff, and generous return policy.
Deciding which camping gear best fits your needs can be extremely overwhelming. REI’s one-stop shop experience makes grabbing everything you need for your next outing easy and stress-free.
Whether you’re shopping online or in-store, REI offers a large variety of trusted brands, expert advice, and perks like their Co-op Membership, which gives you access to exclusive discounts and annual dividends.
Need to gather all the esssentials so you can make tasty coffee while camping? REI has you covered.
Quick Links for the Best Ways to Make Coffee at Camp
- AeroPress Go Plus Complete Travel Coffee System
- Stanley Classic Vacuum French Press
- Stanley Pour Over Set
- GSI Ultralight Java Drip Coffee Maker
- Alpine Start Instant Coffee
5 Best Ways to Make Coffee While Camping
There are endless ways to make coffee at camp: from instant coffee to french presses, percolators to pour-overs. After years of camping and backpacking, determined to find the best *chef’s kiss* coffee while camping, these are the 5 we have identified.
Whether you’re looking for a coffee setup for car camping or backpacking, there’s a solution on this list for you.
Here are our picks for the best way to make coffee while camping.
AeroPress Go Plus Complete Travel Coffee System
We’re new to the AeroPress movement but have quickly learned what the hype is all about.
The AeroPress Go Plus is an ideal option for making coffee while camping, thanks to its compact, all-in-one design — everything fits into the included insulated stainless steel mug (a bonus for those of us who loathe lukewarm coffee).
It’s small but durable, easy to clean, and brews smooth, grit-free coffee in under two minutes. With its quick setup and packability, it’s perfect for campers who want great coffee without the hassle.
AeroPress even makes a lighter, more portable option with their Go Travel Coffee Press for those interested in packing it along for backpacking trips.
Shop AeroPress Coffee System at REI ($90 USD)
Stanley Classic Vacuum French Press
The Stanley Classic Vacuum French Press is a perfect option for making coffee at camp when you’re not looking to shave weight, with its rugged stainless steel build and double-wall insulation.
I’m partial to this hefty french press because it keeps coffee hot for hours (even when it’s being brewed in the ski resort parking lot).
Not to mention, it brews up to 48 ounces making it great for groups or families (or just someone who really, really likes coffee *me*). As with all Stanley gear, the french press is durable and dependable, truly built for the outdoors.
Shop Stanley French Press at REI ($70 USD)
Stanley Pour Over Set
If you’re looking for the same durability and great taste offered by the Stanley French Press but don’t need multiple servings of coffee the Stanley Pour Over Set is for you.
This pour-over is a compact solution for making coffee while camping, and a perfect single-serving option.
Its stainless steel dripper features a built-in mesh filter — no paper needed — and brews directly into the included and insulated 12 oz mug.
This pour-over set delivers rich coffee with minimal gear. Plus, who doesn’t want to own a timeless Stanley green mug?
Shop Stanley Pour Over Set at REI ($45 USD)
GSI Ultralight Java Drip Coffee Maker
The GSI Ultralight Java Drip is our go-to option for making ~real~ coffee while backpacking, as it’s a great choice for weight-conscious campers.
Weighing less than half an ounce, it clips onto most mugs, uses a reusable mesh filter, and packs flat. It’s a simple, compact way to brew quality coffee on the trail while adding almost no weight or bulk to your pack.
Pair it with a lightweight, titanium mug to create the ultimate backcountry coffee kit.
Shop GSI Drip Coffee Maker at REI ($11 USD)
Alpine Start Instant Coffee
Alpine Start Instant Coffee is perfect for campers or backpackers who want to enjoy their coffee with as little work or cleanup as possible.
While I’m personally not an instant coffee lover, I can understand its appeal thanks to its rich flavor, lightweight nature, and zero cleanup.
This instant coffee simply mixes in hot or cold water — no other gear needed — making it a convenient, packable option for quick coffee outside.
Shop Alpine Start Instant Coffee at REI ($25 USD)
Bottom line, good coffee doesn’t need to be sacrificed when you’re camping.
Whether you’re backpacking or car camping, there’s a reliable and easy-to-use option for making coffee while camping to fit your setup.
From instant mixes to compact brewers, these five methods offer something for every type of camper. Choose the one that works best for your style and enjoy a better cup, no matter where you wake up.
Your perfect cup awaits — wherever you pitch your tent.
