There are a few common ways to make coffee while camping.
Campfire Coffee Pot
This is the approach you are imagining. And, of course, the way John Wayne types make coffee in the movies while out on the range. It’s just an enamel steel coffee pot over an open flame. Or other heat source like a Coleman stove.
Campfire Coffee Feels Authentic
- Traditional and rustic method.
- Doesn’t require any special equipment beyond a coffee pot and a heat source.
- Can make large quantities of coffee for a group.
But Campfire Coffee looks better than it tastes
- Can be difficult to control the temperature of the water, leading to over- or under-extraction.
- May end up with some coffee grounds in the cup.
All you need is a pot and a fire
- Coffee pot or kettle
- Ground coffee
- Water
- Heat source (campfire, grill, or camping stove)
- Heat-proof mug
- Fine mesh strainer (optional)
French Press
Sure, the cowboys will probably beat you up for being such a sissy. But dang… the coffee sure is good.
French Press Coffee is pretty darn good
- Produces flavorful and robust coffee.
- Easy to use and clean.
- Allows for control over brewing time and extraction.
But Most Movie-cowboys Don’t make French Press Coffee
- Requires a separate piece of equipment (the French press)
- Glass French presses can be fragile for camping. (So bring a stainless one if you can)
- Not ideal for making large quantities of coffee.
You’ll Need a French press of course. Did you Pack one of those?
- French press
- Ground coffee
- Water
- Heat source (campfire, grill, or camping stove)
- Heat-proof mug
Instant Coffee
Instant Coffee is Better than Nothing
- Quick and convenient.
- Lightweight and easy to pack.
- No equipment needed beyond a mug and hot water.
Instant Coffee is Barely Better than Nothing
- Generally less flavorful and aromatic compared to brewed coffee.
- Limited variety and quality compared to brewed coffee.
- Doesn’t provide the ritual or experience of brewing coffee.
It’s a cinch. Just bring Instant Coffee.
- Instant coffee packets or jar
- Water
- Heat source (campfire, grill, or camping stove)
- Heat-proof mug
What to Pack for Making Coffee While Camping
- Water: Ensure you have access to clean water for brewing.
- Ground Coffee: Bring enough ground coffee for the duration of your camping trip, stored in an airtight container.
- Heat Source: Depending on the method you choose, you’ll need a campfire, camping stove, or other means to heat water.
- Mug: Pack a heat-proof mug for enjoying your coffee. Stainless steel mugs travel best on camping trips.
- Cleanup: Bring a method for cleaning your brewing equipment, such as biodegradable soap and a sponge, to follow Leave No Trace principles.
- Need Cream and Sugar?: If you can’t live without cream and sugar, then don’t forget to pack it.
