A curated list of the best coffee makers for camping, from an ultralight drip system for backpacking to a fancy coffee press for glamping
Back in the day, I used to go trekking with a sandwich bag of instant coffee in my backpack. Those were dark days. Fortunately, times have changed and I now kickstart mornings on the trail with a proper cup of coffee without having to endure (too much) excess weight in my backpack.
For every type of camper, whether crawling out of a tent to an alpine sunrise or clambering from a lakeside campervan, starting the day with a fresh cup of coffee in the outdoors is one of life’s true luxuries.
From lightweight pour-over setups to hardy percolators and portable espresso pots, there’s a coffee maker for every camping style. Below, we share the best coffee makers for camping to ensure that your mornings are as energising as your adventures.
Best overall coffee maker for camping: AeroPress Go
Method: Manual pressurised
Weight: 318g/11.5 oz
Servings: 240ml/8 fl oz
Price: $49.95
Buy on: REI, Amazon
The AeroPress Go travel coffee maker is essentially a vacuum coffee pot capable of making up to three cups of American-style coffee as well as espresso-style coffee (even AeroPress admit it cannot technically make espresso as it doesn’t generate enough pressure). Regardless, the system makes a superb brew and is outrageously quick to use and, thanks to its compact design, remarkably mess-free.
The kit includes a microwaveable mug and lid that doubles as a travelling case, 100 replacement biodegradable and compostable paper micro-filters, a fold-away stirrer and a coffee scoop. Everything packs away inside the chamber and plunger with a rubber lid to keep it all securely in place.
Best coffee maker for lightweight backpacking: GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip
Method: Pour over
Weight: 14g/0.5 oz
Servings: 300ml/10 fl oz
Price: $10.95
Buy on: REI, Amazon
It may not look fancy but if you’re looking for a lightweight minimalist system, then the GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip coffee does the job.
The simple nylon filter comes with three folding legs which clip onto almost any mug or beaker. Simply scoop in your coffee, pour hot water over and watch the magic drip through. The only drawback is that – due to its lightweight design – it’s not the sturdiest piece of kit so store it carefully in your pack and tent.
Best coffee press for glamping: OXO Campgrounds French Press 2.0
Method: French press
Weight: 460g/1.01 lb
Servings: 950ml/32 fl oz
Price: $25.95
Buy on: REI
In stark contrast to the previous coffee maker, the OXO Campgrounds French Press is built for the comfortable camper or for groups who are more concerned with having plenty of joe to share around than weight. The shatter-resistant clear carafe is made from durable recycled content destined for landfills and can make up to eight cups of coffee.
A drawback with the OXO Campgrounds French Press 2.0 is that it’s exclusive to outdoor retailer REI, so can only be bought in the US. If you’re in Europe, the POLIVIAR French Press is a close second. It’s a bit heavier (and pricier at £39.89!) as it’s made from stainless steel but the double-walled model is even sturdier than the OXO as there’s no glass involved. I also love the wooden handle.
Most durable coffee maker: Stanley Pour Over Set
Method: Drip
Weight: 580g/1.5lb
Servings: 350ml/12 fl oz
Price: $45.00
Buy on: REI, Amazon
The Stanley Pour Over Set is made from stainless steel, from its stainless steel filter to its matching stainless steel camp mug. The sturdy filter sits firmly on top of the mug meaning you can get your caffeine fix no matter what the conditions – ideal for inside blustery tents or on uneven ground.
The system doesn’t use any disposable filters making it quicker, easier and cleaner to use as well as more sustainable. Unsurprisingly, it is not light but it is made to last. It comes with a lifetime warranty meaning it might be the last coffee maker you ever buy.
Best coffee maker for car camping: GSI Outdoors Mini Espresso Set
Method: Percolation
Weight: 312g/11oz
Servings: 75ml/2.5 fl oz
Price: $39.95
Buy on: REI, Amazon
The GSI Outdoors Mini Espresso Set is essentially an inside-out moka pot. The stylish stove-top espresso maker brews a small but mighty double shot which stays warm in a double-wall cup. It takes just 90 seconds to brew and comes with a hard-shell foam carrying case to pack it away safely. If you prefer an Americano, simply top up with some hot water from the stove.
This cute bit of kit makes delicious and strong coffee but no-fuss it ain’t. Do not believe the marketing photos. It is a fiddly piece of kit not designed with rocky ground or groundsheets in mind hence the need for a flat surface such as a car boot. But don’t worry too much about that; it will look great on Instagram.
The classic: Bialetti Moka Express
Method: Moka pot
Weight: 320g/11.3oz
Servings: 60ml/2 fl oz
Price: $34.95
Buy on: Amazon
It’s a classic. And it’s been a classic since 1933 because it makes the best espresso in the world, home or away. The Bialetti Moka Express is a tiny one-shot version of the definitive Italian stove-top coffee maker. It works on a gas stove which you can leave gently bubbling away while you get on with your morning ablutions or strike camp.
It’s designed to make espresso – one shot at a time – so it’s best suited to people who like their coffee short, although it can be easily topped up with hot water to make an Americano. It may not be the most practical coffee maker for camping but, ultimately, it makes exquisite espresso as good as you would make at home which, by default, makes it one of the best coffee makers for camping.
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