According to 2023 NORTH AMERICAN CAMPING & OUTDOOR HOSPITALITY REPORT.
“In 2022, 92 million American households identified as campers and 58 million households camped at least once last year.”
2023 NORTH AMERICAN CAMPING & OUTDOOR HOSPITALITY REPORT
If you’re one of those 92 million who see themselves as campers or one of the 58 million who are starting, you need to know this…
“Campers spent an additional $19 per day on travel expenses year-over-year”
2023 NORTH AMERICAN CAMPING & OUTDOOR HOSPITALITY REPORT
I understand the importance of starting your day with a perfect cup of coffee…
Even when you’re out in the wilderness.
Whether you’re an experienced outdoor enthusiast or it’s your first few times camping…
Brewing delicious coffee while camping doesn’t have to be a challenge, and most importantly, doesn’t need to add to the extensive travel expenses you already have.
In this step-by-step guide, I’ll walk you through 6 easy and cheap ways to make coffee while camping…
Making sure you never have to sacrifice quality for convenience during your outdoor adventures.
Especially if you don’t have time. The method that’ll take the longest is just 6 minutes!!
1. Cowboy Coffee
Cowboy coffee, also known as campfire coffee, is a classic method that dates back to the Old West. It’s a simple yet effective way to brew coffee over an open flame, delivering bold and robust flavors.
Cowboy coffee is like going back to the old days when cowboys brewed their coffee over a campfire.
It feels cool and kinda like being in a cowboy movie. So, grab your kettle, sit by the fire, and enjoy your coffee under the stars.
Ingredients:
- Coarsely ground coffee beans
- Water
- Pot or kettle – Here’s the best one in Amazon right now with +9,700 ratings
- Heat source (campfire or portable stove)
Cowboy coffee is an art form that requires precision and patience.
Time needed: Approximately 4 minutes.
Follow these steps to brew the perfect cup:
- Boil water in a kettle.
- Let the water cool for about 6 minutes (360 seconds).
- Add coffee grounds and stir. You’ll hear a sizzling sound as the grounds meet the water.
- Let the coffee sit for 1-2 minutes.
- Stir again and let it sit for another minute.
- Once the coffee grounds settle at the bottom of the kettle, pour the coffee slowly into your mug.
- Enjoy your cowboy coffee!
Honestly, the cowboy coffee method is simple, but it can be a bit messy with grounds ending up in your cup. My advice? Stick with instant coffee for a hassle-free brew.
2. AeroPress Coffee
The AeroPress is a compact and lightweight coffee maker that’s perfect for camping. It uses air pressure to brew a smooth and rich cup of coffee in just minutes, making it chosen by a lot of outdoor enthusiasts.
It’s great for camping because it’s easy to use and doesn’t take up much space. Whether you need a quick pick-me-up for a hike or want to relax with a cup at your campsite…
The AeroPress always makes good coffee.
Especially the one I’ve been using lately which is the Aeropress Go Travel Coffee Press Kit – 3 in 1, if you don’t know…
With this kit you can make coffee with 3 different methods – French Press, Pour Over and Espresso – by having just 1 coffee maker.
Over +10,000 people have gave it over 4.8 star rating, which already tells you enough about it.
Go check it out here: Aeropress Go Travel Coffee Press Kit – 3 in 1
Ingredients:
- AeroPress Go – Best overall rating on Amazon
- AeroPress Go Reusable Metal filters – These ones work the best with the AeroPress Go
- Coarsely ground coffee beans
- Water
- Stirring paddle
The AeroPress may look like a simple device, but if you get it right, you can make amazing coffee like the ones you get at your favorite coffee shop.
Time needed: Approximately 3 minutes.
Here’s how to use it:
- Prepare the Filter: Place a filter in the AeroPress cap, rinse it with hot water to remove any paper taste, and preheat the device for consistent brewing.
- Add Coffee: Put ground coffee into the AeroPress chamber. Use as much as you like for your preferred strength, but usually, one scoop is enough for a single cup.
- Pour Water: Heat water to about 200°F or 93ºC (just below boiling) and pour it over the coffee grounds. Make sure to saturate all the grounds evenly by pouring in a circular motion.
- Stir: Use the stirring paddle to mix the coffee and water for about 10 seconds. This helps the grounds blend well and ensures even extraction.
- Press: Insert the plunger into the chamber and press down slowly until you hear a hissing sound. The pressure forces the water through the grounds, resulting in a smooth and flavorful cup.
- Dilute (Optional): If the coffee is too strong, add hot water to adjust the strength to your liking.
3. Pour Over Coffee
Another portable option for brewing coffee is using pour-overs.
Pour-over method uses a filter cone to quickly brew your coffee, that’s why it is described by most coffee lovers as a simple and elegant way to make coffee.
The best part is it only requires a few basic tools and after using it, rinse, wipe, flatten, and pack it up for easy cleanup.
It allows you to control the brewing process, resulting in a clean and flavorful cup of coffee.
Ingredients:
- Pour-over dripper – Best in my opinion and overall all-in-one brewer from WACACO
- Paper filters – From WACACO also
- Coarsely ground coffee beans
- Water
- Kettle
The pour-over method may seem intimidating at first, but with a little practice, you’ll be brewing like never before.
Time needed: Approximately 6 minutes.
Here’s how to do it:
- Pop open the cone and place the bottom ring on top of your mug.
- Put a coffee filter inside the cone and add your coffee grounds.
- Boil water and let it cool slightly.
- Pour enough water to saturate your coffee grounds.
- Let it bloom for a minute before pouring the rest of the water.
- Remove the cone and enjoy your coffee.
4. French Press Coffee
The French press, also known as a press pot or plunger pot, is a classic brewing method that produces a rich and full-bodied cup of coffee.
It’s portable, durable, and perfect for camping trips.
The one I linked down below is a great choice for travel brewing because it has a built-in gram scale and timer, eliminating the need for extra tools to measure coffee or track steep time.
Things Needed:
- French press coffee maker – I recommend this one from the brand Kichly, you can make up to 6-8 cups of coffee
- Kettle
- Coffee grounds
- Water
The French press may have a reputation for being old-fashioned, but it remains one of the most beloved brewing methods among coffee enthusiasts.
Time Needed: Approximately 4 Minutes
Here’s how to use it:
- Brew one cup of water for every scoop of ground coffee.
- Let the boiling water cool for about 30 seconds.
- Pour half of the water into the press and wait for your coffee to bloom.
- After one minute, pour in the remaining water.
- Let it steep for a couple of minutes. For stronger coffee, steep for more than 3 minutes.
- Gently press the French press plunger.
- Pour your coffee and enjoy!
5. Instant Coffee
Instant coffee, also known as coffee powder or coffee crystals, is a quick and convenient option for camping, requiring minimal preparation and equipment.
While it may not offer the same depth of flavor as freshly brewed coffee, it’s perfect for those who focus on simplicity and efficiency.
Especially those who are backpacking, and want to reduce weight, save space…
And just want to enjoy their cup of coffee as soon as possible.
Ingredients:
- Instant coffee packets or granules
- Kettle
- Water
Instant coffee may not have the same artisanal appeal as freshly brewed coffee, but it’s hard to beat when it comes to convenience.
Time needed: Approximately 2 minutes.
Here’s how to make it:
- Boil a cup of water
- Put the granules into the cup
- Stir and drink
…That’s it!
6. Hand-Powered Portable Espresso Maker
I’ve saved the best for last, and I’ll tell you why just in a moment.
Manual espresso makers are perfect for coffee lovers on the move. They’re small and easy to carry, so you can enjoy a fresh espresso wherever you are.
With a bit of practice, you can make a really good shot of espresso.
Things Needed:
- Hand-Powered Espresso Maker – Nanopresso, the easiest to use.
- Water
- Coffee Grounds
Popular manual espresso makers include the Nanopresso. Me and my fiancée have used it a lot when we do our little weekend trips here in Spain.
The espresso won’t be exactly like what you get from a big machine, but it’s pretty close and really hits the spot!
Time Needed: Approximately 1 Minute
Here’s how to do it:
- Boil water and then let it cool for about 30 seconds.
- Put the ground coffee into the maker. You don’t need to press it down – the lid will do that for you.
- Pour over the hot water you made earlier
- Press the button and you have your espresso made already
Conclusion
We’ve explored 6 different methods for brewing coffee while camping, each offering its unique advantages and flavor profiles.
From the bold and strong flavors of cowboy coffee to the smooth and clean brews of the AeroPress and pour-over, there’s a method to suit every taste and preference.
Whether you’re a die-hard coffee aficionado or just looking for a quick caffeine fix on your outdoor adventures, these brewing techniques ensure you never sacrifice quality for convenience.
Summer’s around the corner, so why don’t you check out 7 Best Summer Coffee Recipes and How to Make Them
Now you can pack your camping gear, grab your favorite coffee beans, and embark on your next outdoor excursion with confidence, knowing that a perfect cup of coffee is always within reach.
Hey, you didn’t tell me where you’re going next… Leave a comment down below so other readers get some inspiration!
FAQ
What’s the quickest way to make coffee while camping?
Instant coffee is your best bet for speed. It’s as simple as boiling water, adding the coffee powder or granules to your cup, giving it a stir, and voila! You’ll have a cup of coffee ready to enjoy in about two minutes, making it perfect for those early mornings or when you’re on the move.
How can I avoid a messy cup with cowboy coffee over a campfire?
While cowboy coffee over a campfire brings that rugged outdoor vibe, it can sometimes result in grounds ending up in your cup. To avoid the mess, consider trying the AeroPress method. It’s a cleaner alternative that still gives you a rich and flavorful cup of coffee. Plus, it’s easy to use and perfect for camping trips where you want to minimize cleanup.
I’m new to camping and coffee brewing. What’s an easy method to start with?
If you’re just starting out, pour-over coffee is a great option. It’s straightforward, requiring only a pour-over dripper, paper filters, coarsely ground coffee beans, and hot water. The process is simple: just pour water over the grounds, let it brew for a few minutes, and you’re ready to enjoy a clean and flavorful cup of coffee. Plus, cleanup is a breeze, making it ideal for beginners.
I love good coffee. What’s the best method for top-notch flavor while camping?
For coffee enthusiasts who crave top-notch flavor while camping, the French press method is hard to beat. It produces a rich and full-bodied cup of coffee that’s bursting with flavor. Plus, it’s portable and durable, making it perfect for outdoor adventures. With just a French press coffee maker, coffee grounds, hot water, and a few minutes of steeping time, you can enjoy gourmet-quality coffee wherever your travels take you.
Can I really make espresso while camping?
Yes, you can! With a hand-powered espresso maker like the Nanopresso, you can enjoy a fresh shot of espresso wherever your outdoor adventures take you. It’s compact, easy to use, and produces a decent shot of espresso in about a minute. Simply boil water, add your coffee grounds, pour over the hot water, and press away. It may not be exactly like what you get from a big espresso machine, but it’s pretty close and perfect for satisfying your espresso cravings on the go.