Waking up to the sounds, smells, and views of nature is one of the many joys of camping. And what better way to complement this experience than with a perfect cup of coffee? Whether you’re embarking on a solo adventure in the backcountry or enjoying a camping trip with a group of friends or family, finding the right coffee-making product is essential. In this guide, we will explore the best ways to enjoy your morning brew in the great outdoors, featuring top products from Yeti, AeroPress, GSI, Stanley, and more.
Understanding Your Coffee Needs While Camping
Before we dive into the specifics of each product, it’s important to consider what you need from your camping coffee maker. Here are a few factors to keep in mind:
1. Portability: When backpacking, compact and lightweight coffee makers are key.
2. Durability: Outdoor gear should be able to withstand rough conditions.
3. Group Size: Solo campers have different needs than those camping in a group.
4. Ease of Use: Simple operation is crucial in an outdoor setting.
5. Cleanup: Minimal water use and easy cleaning are preferred.
Now that we understand the key aspects to consider, let’s explore some coffee-making solutions for different camping scenarios:
Coffee Makers for the Solo Camper
For the solo camper, two products stand out:
1. AeroPress Go Travel Coffee Press: Priced at $39.95, this compact and lightweight press is designed specifically for traveling coffee lovers. It brews smooth and rich coffee without bitterness, thanks to its total immersion brewing and rapid filtering capabilities. The AeroPress Go is ideal for solo campers due to its compact design. Cleanup is simple and requires minimal water, making it perfect for leave-no-trace camping.
2. GSI Ultralight Drip: Priced at $10.95, this drip coffee maker is one of the lightest on the market, making it a great choice for backpackers. Its straightforward brewing process involves placing it over your mug, adding coffee, and pouring hot water. Cleanup is easy with simple rinsing, and the nylon filter is reusable.
Coffee Solutions for Groups
If you’re camping with a group, these two options are worth considering:
1. AeroPress XL: Priced at $69.95, the AeroPress XL scales up the beloved AeroPress technology to serve two people, making it perfect for family or group camping. It maintains the quick and easy brewing process of its smaller counterpart while producing more coffee per press. Cleanup is just as quick and easy.
2. GSI Percolator 12-cup: Priced at $36.95, this traditional percolator can brew up to 14 cups of coffee, making it ideal for larger groups. Available in stainless steel or enamel, both options offer robustness in outdoor conditions. The percolator can be used over a camp stove or open fire, adding to the camping experience. Cleanup requires more water and effort but can be managed with campsite resources.
French Press Favorites
For fans of French press coffee, these three options are worth considering:
1. Yeti Rambler French Press: Priced at $130, this French press is known for its durability and insulation, designed to keep your coffee hot for hours. It combines rugged construction with the ability to brew creamy and rich coffee. Cleanup is more involved due to its size and the grounds, but still straightforward.
2. Stanley French Press Mug: Priced at $36, this travel mug combines a French press mechanism within a single container, making it extremely portable. Ideal for solo campers who need a quick and efficient cup of coffee, cleanup is simple as the press and mug are integrated.
3. Stanley Classic Vacuum French Press: Priced at $70, this larger version offers the reliability and durability expected from Stanley products. Suitable for brewing multiple cups, it provides a robust design with excellent heat retention. Cleanup is similar to other French presses, involving disposing of coffee grounds and rinsing.
Innovative Pour Over Methods
If you prefer pour over coffee, these two options are worth considering:
1. Stanley Pour Over: Priced at $45, this device is designed to be placed on top of the included mug, with grounds placed in the filter for pour over brewing. It’s simple, effective, and portable, making it ideal for precision brewing enthusiasts. Cleanup involves just rinsing the filter and device.
2. MiiR Pourigami: Priced at $21.93, this pour over tool folds flat like origami and is crafted from durable stainless steel. It’s ultralight and compact, perfect for minimalists and solo travelers who don’t want to compromise on the quality of their morning brew. Cleanup is extremely easy; just rinse and fold away.
Making the Perfect Camp Coffee
Choosing the right coffee maker for camping depends largely on your needs. Consider the number of people in your group, the type of camping you’ll be doing, and how much effort you’re willing to put into brewing and cleanup. Whether you prefer a simple pour over with the MiiR Pourigami or need a large batch from a GSI Percolator, there’s a solution that will work for you. Remember, the right start with a perfect cup of coffee can set the tone for a glorious day in nature.
Final Tips
Here are a few additional tips to enhance your camping coffee experience:
– Pre-grind your coffee: Save time and space by grinding your coffee at home. If you enjoy the art of manual grinding, there are options available.
– Heat water efficiently: Use a camp stove or a small kettle to boil water quickly.
– Pack out your grounds: Always practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out used coffee grounds.
– Instant coffee options: If all of this seems like too much work, consider some instant coffee options.
By selecting the right coffee maker and following these tips, you can enjoy the perfect cup of coffee while making unforgettable memories on your outdoor adventure.