The best coffee makers for camping

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 –…