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Best Camping Coffee Maker of 2024

Maya Rivera

Written by Maya Rivera

From Utah canyons to Thailand cliffs, Maya is a rock climbing aficionado who enjoys a bit of camping and hiking in the off-season.

This post was last updated on March 28, 2024.

Best Camping Coffee Maker of 2024

Waking up in the great outdoors to the smell of fresh coffee is one of life's greatest pleasures. But let's be honest, nobody wants to sacrifice a good cup of java for the love of backpacking. This is why a portable coffee maker, like the AeroPress Coffee Maker, is a must-have gadget for any serious camper. Enjoying your favorite dark-roast blend under the open sky can really kickstart an adventurous day.

The AeroPress Coffee Maker tops our list because it nails it in all the important areas: taste, simplicity, weight, packability, durability, capacity, cleaning, and value. But we understand everyone has different needs and preferences when it comes to coffee on camping trips. So we've done the legwork and also identified two runners-up and the top ultralight option. Don't worry, each of these coffee makers is top-notch and will serve you a piping hot brew in the wilderness.

Before we dive in, brewing the perfect camping coffee requires a bit more than just a coffee maker. To complete your outdoor kitchen setup, make sure to check out our related posts on the Best Backpacking Stoves, the Best Camping Stoves, and the Best Camping Cookware Sets.

Our Top Recommendations

Our Top Pick

7.0 /10
AeroPress Coffee Maker Camping Coffee Maker
AeroPress Coffee Maker
Ease of Use
7
Group Size
4
Taste
8
Weight
9

The AeroPress Coffee Maker takes the top spot for its compact design and speedy brew time, often praised by campers for serving up rich, smooth coffee far from the comforts of home.

Runner Up #1

7.0 /10
Primula Coffee Brew Buddy Camping Coffee Maker
Primula Coffee Brew Buddy
Ease of Use
8
Group Size
4
Taste
7
Weight
9

The Primula Coffee Brew Buddy earns the top pick runner up for its compact design and speedy brew time, not to mention campers rave about how the fine mesh avoids the annoyance of grinds in their coffee.

Runner Up #2

7.0 /10
Wacaco Nanopresso Camping Coffee Maker
Wacaco Nanopresso
Ease of Use
7
Group Size
4
Taste
8
Weight
9

The Wacaco Nanopresso takes the runner-up spot for its impressively compact size that doesn't skimp on delivering a full-flavored espresso, and its user-friendly operation, making it a favorite among campers in user reviews.

What you should look for

(and what we test for)

Durability

You want a sturdy and robust coffee maker that can withstand rough conditions and potential drops or knocks, so it's good to opt for models made from durable materials like stainless steel or hard plastic.

Ease of Use

Whether you're a morning person or not, no one wants to wrestle with a complicated device at daybreak, so choose a coffee maker that's easy to operate and requires minimal fiddling.

Quality of Brew

Because a morning without a good cup of joe is just a snooze-fest, ensure your chosen coffee maker is capable of brewing a decent cup, that'll give you the desired caffeine kick to start your day.

Weight and Size

When you're lugging your gear up a mountain or through extensive trails, every ounce counts, so make sure to choose a camping coffee maker that's lightweight and compact, to save on both space and effort.

7.0 /10

AeroPress Coffee Maker

The Best Camping Coffee Maker

Based on our research and testing, we think the AeroPress Coffee Maker is the best Camping Coffee Maker on the market right now, for anyone looking to play hard outside.

AeroPress Coffee Maker Camping Coffee Maker
Ease of Use
7
Group Size
4
Taste
8
Weight
9

Reasons to Buy

  • Handy and compact design
  • Quality of coffee it brews is outstanding
  • Very easy to clean
  • Affordable, offers great value for money

Reasons to Avoid

  • Might be a bit complex for beginners
  • Requires additional filters which could add to long-term costs
  • Not as durable as other camping coffee makers in the same price range

The AeroPress Coffee Maker has cemented itself as a favorite among camping enthusiasts and caffeine aficionados alike. Robust, compact and with an ease of use that's hard to beat, it serves up a quick, smooth, and delicious brew, even in the great outdoors.

Its simple design consists of two plastic tubes, one fitting inside the other, and a filter cap. To brew, just add coffee and hot water into the larger tube, stir, then press the inner tube down to force the brew through the filter. A straightforward process that makes clean up a breeze, especially when you're on the move.

Despite its plastic construction, users commented on the AeroPress's sturdy feel. It's built to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, without sacrificing portability. The AeroPress is made from phthalate-free and BPA-free materials and is compact enough to be easily stowed inside hiking packs and carry-on luggage alike.

The coffee's flavor created by the AeroPress is another point high on reviewers' list of praises. They mention this gadget brews a smooth, rich cup of joe, which they say is a pleasant surprise from such a portable and uncomplicated device. It's been praised highly for producing less bitterness and acidity than many traditional brewing methods.

But, of course, it isn't all rosy. Some users mentioned one small drawback—the capacity. The AeroPress makes one to three cups per press, which could be an issue for bigger groups or heavy coffee drinkers. However, given its quick brewing time, making multiple rounds shouldn't be too much of a chore.

Another minor downside highlighted by a handful of users is the need for special AeroPress filters. While some reviewers suggest these filters can be rinsed and reused to some degree, they still represent an added ongoing cost.

Overall, opinions about the AeroPress Coffee Maker are overwhelmingly positive. Portable, durable, and producing a solid cup of coffee. It’s seen as a wonderful companion for anyone looking to enjoy a quality brew while immersed in nature.

No prices found. Check back later!

7.0 /10

Primula Coffee Brew Buddy

Runner Up

Based on our research and testing, we think the Primula Coffee Brew Buddy is a great choice if you're looking for a camping coffee maker to go play hard outside with, if our top pick isn't quite what you're looking for.

Primula Coffee Brew Buddy Camping Coffee Maker
Ease of Use
8
Group Size
4
Taste
7
Weight
9

Reasons to Buy

  • Compact and portable
  • Easy to use
  • Affordable
  • Decent taste

Reasons to Avoid

  • Lower brew quality compared to pricier alternatives
  • Not robust enough for heavy use
  • Limited serving size

The Primula Coffee Brew Buddy is a breath of fresh air for campers who can't do without a quality cup of joe. This coffee maker is a revelation in lightweight packing with its ultra-light 30 grams weight. It lays flat when not in use, making it an easy fit in any camping, backpacking, or climbing gear.

Its design is simple, sleek, and efficient, something every camper will appreciate. The ease of use is a winner: just place the Brew Buddy on your cup, add coffee grounds into the mesh filter, pour hot water, and let it steep. You'll have a delightful hot cup ready in no time!

The Brew Buddy is all about personalization, because it lets you be in control of your brew strength. So whether you prefer a dark, robust brew, or a mild one, achieving it is a piece of cake with this coffee maker.

There are a few hiccups though. Some users have reported that cleaning the fine mesh filter can be a bit of a hassle, especially in a camping environment. Fine coffee grounds can get stuck and a thorough rinse might be needed.

Not all cups are born equal and another issue users have found is with the fit. While it's been designed to sit on most standard cups, cups with a wide rim might prove to be a problem.

Looking at the reviews online, it's clear that the Primula Brew Buddy is loved by many. The majority of the reviews praised how compact and easy to use this coffee maker is. They also threw light on how the Brew Buddy has spiced up their camping mornings with a tasty brew that could rival a barista's coffee.

A few naysayers pointed out that it might not be perfect for more extreme backpacking conditions or for larger groups. They suggested that a camping coffee pot would be better for these scenarios.

No prices found. Check back later!

7.0 /10

Wacaco Nanopresso

Runner Up

Based on our research and testing, we think the Wacaco Nanopresso is a great choice if you're looking for a camping coffee maker to go play hard outside with, if our top pick isn't quite what you're looking for.

Wacaco Nanopresso Camping Coffee Maker
Ease of Use
7
Group Size
4
Taste
8
Weight
9

Reasons to Buy

  • Compact and portable
  • Produces excellent quality espresso
  • Easy to use
  • Durable construction

Reasons to Avoid

  • Higher price point
  • Manual operation
  • Limited capacity

The Wacaco Nanopresso is a dream come true for campers who can't start their day without a good cup of joe. It's compact, lightweight, and capable of brews that rival those from your local coffee shop, making it ideal for camping trips.

The Nanopresso is a godsend for those interested in both backpacking and espresso. Why, you ask? Well, considering its portability and weight, which are both paramount when you're lugging gear up a mountain, this mini coffee powerhouse scores major brownie points. It's only 6.14 inches long and weighs a feather-light 336 grams, but don't be fooled by its petite stature - it punches well above its weight when it comes to performance.

With its patented pumping system that can reach up to 18 bars of stable pressure, your morning brew definitely won’t be lacking in flavor. Users have praised the product for the rich and creamy espresso it produces, a thumping start to any day in the wilderness.

Customers also found the Nanopresso easy to operate, with the pumping mechanism user-friendly, even in half-awake, pre-coffee states. And there's little to worry about when it comes to cleaning - it's a breeze, with easy disassembly and simple steps required.

The Nanopresso comes with a protective case, but, given the rugged nature of outdoor adventures, the product's durability is a concern. At its price point, it's heartbreaking to see it break if it slips out of your hand. Some buyers have reported issues over time, with the pump or pressure system failing. A little extra care while handling will go a long way in avoiding these problems.

Reviews of the Nanopresso's water tank capacity were mixed. It holds 80ml, which is perfect for a quick espresso shot, but those who prefer their coffee a bit more dilute might find this limiting. Yet, there's a silver lining - Wacaco sells a separate larger tank if you need more brew in your mornings.

While the Nanopresso is not the cheapest coffee maker on the market, many customers felt that the quality of coffee it produces and its ease of use justify the price tag.

No prices found. Check back later!

7.5 /10

GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip

$10.95
Best Ultralight Camping Coffee Maker

Based on our research and testing, we think the GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip is a solid choice for those looking for a lightweight camping coffee maker option to go play hard outside with.

GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip Camping Coffee Maker
Ease of Use
8
Group Size
6
Taste
7
Weight
9

Reasons to Buy

  • Compact and lightweight design
  • Produces high-quality coffee
  • Easy to clean and use
  • Available at a reasonable price

Reasons to Avoid

  • Not as durable as other models
  • Less capacity, suitable for individual serving only

The GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip is a stellar addition to any camper's gear list. Weighing less than half an ounce, this nifty gadget allows you to prepare a flavorful cup of coffee without adding significant weight to your backpack.

Setting up the Java Drip is a straightforward affair. It features a clever design with sturdy foldable legs and a fine mesh filter that clips directly onto almost any mug or cup. The simplicity is a huge plus, allowing you to get your caffeine fix with minimal fuss. And no need to worry about that extra waste usually associated with paper filters - the reusable design of the Java Drip is as environmentally friendly as it is efficient.

One thing you might have to grapple with, however, is patience. Compared to espresso-style camp coffee makers, the drip process is slow – acting more like a percolator. But with a little patience, you are rewarded with a robust, flavorful brew. Nothing gives you that desired kick on a chilly morning in the wilderness like a hot, fresh mug of drip coffee.

As with any product, it's not all sunshine. Some customers mention this gadget does lack in durability. The mesh filter tends to wear if not handled with care.

Despite this minor setback, most users seem thrilled with the performance of the GSI Outdoors Ultralight Java Drip. A common sentiment among users is how compact and lightweight it is - it practically disappears in your pack, yet it turns your camping mornings into a truly enjoyable experience.

From the novice camper to the seasoned backpacking guru, this java drip maker proves to be a fantastic companion for those craving a freshly-brewed cup of coffee in the great outdoors. While it may not replace your beloved espresso machine at home, this nifty gadget undoubtedly holds its own against its competition on the trails.

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