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Best Camping Cup 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 27, 2024.

Best Camping Cup of 2024

If you're a camping enthusiast, you know the importance of a good camping cup. It's not just about carrying coffee or soups, but the material, weight, packability and overall versatility play a huge role in deciding the best fit for your adventure. Among the countless options available, one that consistently tops the list is the MSR Titan Cup.

The MSR Titan Cup is that 'just right' blend of lightweight, compact design and durability that makes it an indispensable companion on your outdoor treks. It's highly durable, easy to clean, and has excellent heat distribution. Plus, with its unique design and additional components, it just takes the camping experience to a whole new level. You don't have to take only our word for it though, we've put it through its paces along with a couple of nearly-as-great contenders to bring you this comprehensive review.

But we’ve got something for everyone’s pocket. If you are on a budget, don't worry, we have some incredible options for you as well. If you're preparing for your next camping trip, make sure to also check out our guides on Best Ultralight Tents, Best Camping Sleeping Bags, and Best Camping and Backpacking Pillows. So, let's dive right in and find the perfect cup for your sipping-around-the-campfire moments.

Our Top Recommendations

Our Top Pick

7.5 /10
MSR Titan Cup Camping Cup
MSR Titan Cup
Ergonomics
6
Insulation
7
Material Quality
9
Weight
8

The MSR Titan Cup claims the top spot due to its superior lightweight yet durable titanium construction and its multipurpose design, consistently praised by campers for its portability and versatility.

Runner Up #1

6.5 /10
Snow Peak Stainless Steel Sierra Cup Camping Cup
Snow Peak Stainless Steel Sierra Cup
Ergonomics
8
Insulation
5
Material Quality
7
Weight
6

The Snow Peak Stainless Steel Sierra Cup clinched the top pick runner up spot due to its robust stainless steel construction that reviewers praised for its durability, alongside its practical, multi-use design that allows it to double as a small cooking pot, setting it apart from the competition.

Runner Up #2

6.5 /10
Sea to Summit X Mug Camping Cup
Sea to Summit X Mug
Ergonomics
6
Insulation
5
Material Quality
8
Weight
7

Enthusiasts rave about the Sea to Summit X Mug, championing its impressive compact design and heat-resistant silicone features that give the cup a unique edge in comfort and convenience.

What you should look for

(and what we test for)

Capacity

Size and capacity are key – consider your individual needs, a small 8oz cup may be enough for morning coffee, while a larger 20oz cup could double up as a bowl for soupy meals.

Material

Consider the cup's material; stainless steel is durable and heat-resistant, perfect for hot drinks around the campfire, while titanium cups are super lightweight for those on longer hiking or climbing expeditions.

Insulation

Insulation is crucial for keeping drinks at their original temperature; double-wall vacuum insulation can preserve your hot coffee and cool water for longer during your wilderness explorations.

Design Features

Look for design features such as a sturdy handle that's easy to hold (even in gloves), a lid to prevent spills and keep your drink clean, and measurements marked inside the cup to aid in meal preparations.

7.5 /10

MSR Titan Cup

$49.95
The Best Camping Cup

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

MSR Titan Cup Camping Cup
Ergonomics
6
Insulation
7
Material Quality
9
Weight
8

Reasons to Buy

  • Super lightweight
  • High versatility
  • Easy to clean
  • Resistant to corrosion
  • Excellent heat distribution

Reasons to Avoid

  • No lid included
  • Handle can get hot
  • A bit pricey

The MSR Titan Cup isn't your average camping mug. Built from high-quality titanium, this cup is designed to last. It's a bit more expensive than other cups on the market, but its durability makes it a good investment for avid campers or backpackers who frequently hit the trails.

We've found that despite its rugged construction, the MSR Titan Cup manages to maintain a very light weight. This is a big selling point for backpackers who need to keep their gear as light as possible. Users report that they hardly notice the extra weight in their backpack, and that the cup's slim design makes it easy to pack without wasting any precious space.

When it comes to heat conductivity, the MSR Titan Cup shines. Because it's made of titanium, it heats up quickly. Many of the people who bought this cup commented on how quickly they could boil water or heat up their morning coffee, which is a major plus when you're in the great outdoors and want to maximize your time enjoying the scenery instead of waiting for your drink to heat up.

One potential drawback of the MSR Titan Cup is that it doesn't come with a handle or a lid, something a few customers mentioned in their reviews. This is less than ideal if you like to sip your drink slowly, as the lack of a lid means your drink may cool off quicker. However, others argued that this drawback isn't much of a dealbreaker given the cup's excellent heat conductivity.

Another minor issue reported by some users was the small size of the MSR Titan Cup. It holds just over two cups of liquid, making it perfect for a single serving of coffee or soup, but potentially limiting if you're a big drinker or if you're sharing with a camp companion.

All in all, customer reviews for the MSR Titan Cup have been glowing. It may not be perfect for every camper or backpacker, but for those looking for a high-quality, durable, and lightweight cup that performs well in the great outdoors, it consistently gets the job done.

6.5 /10

Snow Peak Stainless Steel Sierra Cup

$16.95
Runner Up

Based on our research and testing, we think the Snow Peak Stainless Steel Sierra Cup is a great choice if you're looking for a camping cup to go play hard outside with, if our top pick isn't quite what you're looking for.

Snow Peak Stainless Steel Sierra Cup Camping Cup
Ergonomics
8
Insulation
5
Material Quality
7
Weight
6

Reasons to Buy

  • Made with high-quality stainless steel
  • Handles heat distribution effectively
  • Compact size & great for packing
  • Long-lasting and durable
  • Versatile and can be used with different sets
  • Cleaning the cup is hassle-free
  • Good value for price

Reasons to Avoid

  • No lid included
  • The handle can get hot while in use
  • Not the lightest option available
  • Not ideal for larger group camping

The Snow Peak Stainless Steel Sierra Cup is a standout product in the camping cup niche. It's a versatile, high-quality item that embodies what camping gear is all about - durability, practicality and a lot of charm.

Forged from durable stainless steel, this cup is not the type to buckle under a couple of rough camping trips. Its resistance to rust and weather elements have left users brimming with praise. Many pointed out that the cup survives repeated use and vigorous washing without losing its luster or inviting a speck of rust.

The unique curved design of the cup has made it an instant favorite among campers. The Sierra cup, with its pointed bottom and wide mouth, offers a unique blend of style and practicality. The broad mouth makes it easy to gulp down your morning brew or late-night toddy, and the angled bottom brings a dash of distinctiveness that sets the cup apart from conventional designs. Several reviewers said they loved its ergonomic design, which fit comfortably in their hands.

Campers also appreciated the multifunctionality of the Sierra Cup. Beyond just serving your drink, it can be used for a quick bowl of soup on a cold night or as a small serving dish. Its versatility seems to hit a sweet spot with outdoor enthusiasts who value practical, multiuse gear.

However, it wasn't all rosy in the camp of the Sierra Cup. Some campers have taken issue with it's heat retention. While it is a champion at withstanding high temperatures, this same quality makes the handle too hot to touch when the cup is filled with boiling liquid. A few users curb this downside by accessorizing the handle with a cloth or leather wrap for insulation, so keep that in mind if you decide to make this your camping cup of choice.

One more thing - although it's not exactly a lightweight, reviewers don't seem to mind the extra few ounces. The sturdy make and multipurpose use of the cup more than compensate for the slight weight disadvantage.

6.5 /10

Sea to Summit X Mug

$14.95
Runner Up

Based on our research and testing, we think the Sea to Summit X Mug is a great choice if you're looking for a camping cup to go play hard outside with, if our top pick isn't quite what you're looking for.

Sea to Summit X Mug Camping Cup
Ergonomics
6
Insulation
5
Material Quality
8
Weight
7

Reasons to Buy

  • Collapsible design saves space
  • Lightweight construction
  • High level of durability
  • Easy to clean
  • Can withstand high temperatures

Reasons to Avoid

  • Slightly expensive for a camping mug
  • Lack of handle might make it hard to hold if it's hot
  • Collapsibility feature may compromise durability over time

The Sea to Summit X Mug is a top pick in the camping cups category due to its innovative design, lightweight construction and the level of practicality it offers avid backpackers and casual campers alike.

A key feature that sets the X Mug apart from traditional camping cups is its unique collapsible design. This allows for easy storage in tight backpack pockets or side pouches, making it a no-brainer for minimalists or hikers concerned about space and weight. When expanded, the X Mug holds up to 16 ounces of liquid (cold or hot), enough to keep your morning coffee or your evening soup portions perfectly served.

It sports a nifty, heat-resistant, food-grade silicone construction, meaning it can safely be used over a camp stove. Plus, its flexibility and resilience to normal wear and tear lends it a durability that most traditional rigid cups can't offer.

But it's not all sunny days with the X Mug. Some users have mentioned that the silicone can retain flavors, especially if used to consume stronger drinks like coffee or alcohol. Additionally, the silicone doesn’t provide much in terms of insulation. So, don't expect your liquids to stay warm or cool for extended periods. Some users also found the mug a little wobbly when filled to the brim, something to bear in mind if you're prone to knocking things over!

The X Mug comes with calibrated measurements along the inside wall, convenient for those who love to whip up a quick meal or drink using precise quantities while out camping. Not forgetting the sturdy nylon rim that helps maintain the cup's shape and offers a solid grip, though solo users noted it could get pretty heated when the cup was placed directly over the stove.

Sea to Summit X Mug is a good size when expanded.
Sea to Summit X Mug is a good size when expanded.
The measurement lines are useful for making dehydrated meals.
The measurement lines are useful for making dehydrated meals.
The X mug when flattened out is a great size for packing.
The X mug when flattened out is a great size for packing.
7.3 /10

GSI Outdoors Halulite Aluminum Cup

$14.95
Best Budget Camping Cup

Based on our research and testing, we think the GSI Outdoors Halulite Aluminum Cup is a great pick if you're looking for a camping cup that is more budget friendly, without sacrificing too much in quality.

GSI Outdoors Halulite Aluminum Cup Camping Cup
Ergonomics
7
Insulation
5
Material Quality
9
Weight
8

Reasons to Buy

  • Sturdy and durable
  • Excellent heat distribution
  • Easy to clean
  • High value at a budget price
  • Compact and easy to pack

Reasons to Avoid

  • Handle can get hot after prolonged use
  • No lid included
  • Not best for cooking food

The GSI Outdoors Halulite Aluminum Cup finds its sweet spot among campers and backpackers looking for a solid, low-cost option that doesn’t skimp on performance. With its take on a classic camping cup design, this particular gem melds affordability with function, making it a standout in the budget category.

Crafted from proprietary Halulite material - a type of hard-anodized aluminum - this cup is not only durable, but it also weighs in at a feather-light 3.2 ounces. This makes it an ideal companion for those long hikes or backpacking trips where every ounce of gear matters.

Boasting a 20-ounce capacity, this cup is perfect for a hot cup of morning joe or a hearty serving of soup when you're ready to call it a day. The generous size ensures you've got enough to get you started in the morning or enough to warm you up in the evening.

Online reviews from those who’ve tested the GSI Outdoors Halulite Aluminum Cup in the wild point towards its impressive heat retention. Its thermal conductivity allows for direct stove heating, making that revitalizing cup of coffee or tea a breeze to make, even in the great outdoors. It's important to note, though, that some users recommend using a pot-gripper or a makeshift cloth when handling the hot cup.

Still, the cup isn't perfect. A handful of users have noted that its lack of a handle can make holding a hot cup rather tricky. That being said, the fact that it uses less space and is easier to pack due to its simple design balances things out for many camping enthusiasts.

The cup also gets high marks for durability. It's scratch and abrasion-resistant, meaning it won't let normal wear and tear or rugged outdoor conditions cut its lifespan short. On the other hand, the absence of a lid was highlighted by some campers as a possible drawback.

All in all, the consensus amongst verified buyers is that the GSI Outdoors Halulite Aluminum Cup is a reliable, lightweight, and cost-effective option. With its robust build and impressive performance, it seems to bring a lot to the camping table, especially for its price.

The measurement lines are great for measuring water for dehydrated meals.
The measurement lines are great for measuring water for dehydrated meals.
The handles are great and fold flat for packing.
The handles are great and fold flat for packing.
The bottom of the cup has some information about the cup.
The bottom of the cup has some information about the cup.

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