Are you a coffee lover who enjoys spending time in the great outdoors? There’s nothing quite like waking up to the smell of fresh coffee while camping, but making a good cup without access to a full kitchen can be challenging.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to make coffee while camping using various methods that are simple and easy to follow. Whether in the backcountry or at a car campground, you can still enjoy a delicious coffee in the great outdoors.
We’ll cover everything from choosing the right brewing method to gathering your supplies and boiling water. Plus, we’ll share some tips and tricks to help you make the perfect cup of coffee, no matter where you are.
So, whether you’re a seasoned camper or a beginner, grab your favourite mug and let’s get started on the journey to make campfire coffee.
The Best Camp Coffee Makers & Methods
As an avid outdoors enthusiast, one of the most important things to me is a good cup of coffee in the morning. But getting that perfectly brewed cup of joe can be hard when camping. Luckily, plenty of great camp coffee makers and methods are available that can help make your mornings much more enjoyable.
Instant Coffee
When it comes to preparing coffee in the wilderness, campers have many options. The choices can be overwhelming, from French presses and percolators to pour-over and drip methods. However, one option that is often overlooked is instant coffee. Yes, you read that right – instant coffee can be the best choice for camping.
One of the biggest advantages of instant coffee while camping is its convenience. It requires minimal equipment (just a kettle or pot and hot water) and doesn’t take up much space in your backpack. Plus, since it’s pre-ground and pre-measured, there’s no need to grind beans or measure portions while on the go.
Another benefit of instant coffee during camping trips is its long shelf life. Unlike fresh beans or grounds, which may spoil quickly outdoors, instant coffee can last for months without losing flavour or quality.
Coffee In A Bag
Coffee in a bag is exactly what it sounds like – coffee grounds pre-packaged into individual bags that can be steeped like tea. It’s lightweight, easy to pack, and produces consistently good coffee every time. Several brands on the market offer this convenient option for campers, including Starbucks‘ Via Instant Coffee and Mount Hagen Organic Fair Trade Coffee.
If you prefer more control over your brew, portable coffee makers are designed specifically for camping.
Single Serving Pour-Overs
Pour-over coffee makers are a simple and efficient way to brew coffee while camping. They consist of a cone-shaped funnel with a filter on top, which sits directly over your mug or thermos. Add ground coffee into the filter, pour hot water over it slowly, and let it drip into your cup below. This method allows precise control over brewing time and water temperature, making perfect cups every time.
AeroPress Coffee Maker
An AeroPress coffee maker is a perfect companion for your camping trips. This device has become increasingly popular among outdoor enthusiasts due to its convenience, portability, and ease of use. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee while enjoying the great outdoors.
Aside from being lightweight and durable, AeroPress offers several brewing methods that allow you to experiment with different flavours and strengths. Whether you prefer a strong espresso shot or a smooth drip coffee, this device can do it all. The versatility of this device makes it stand out among other camp coffee makers on the market.
Camping French Press
The French press, also known as a plunger pot or press pot, is simple to use and requires no electricity or filters. It works by steeping coarsely ground coffee in hot water and using a mesh filter to separate the grounds from the liquid. The result is a rich, full-bodied cup of coffee that will satisfy even the most discerning caffeine lovers.
Stove-Top Percolator
The stove-top percolator is one of the best of all the different types of camping coffee makers available. Not only is the stove-top percolator easy to use, but it’s also highly efficient at producing rich and delicious coffee.
It works by boiling water in its lower chamber before drawing it up through a tube and over your ground beans in an upper chamber. The resulting brew is then filtered back down into the lower chamber, ready for you to pour yourself a steaming hot cup.
Insulated Coffee Mugs
Making coffee while on a camping trip can be challenging – unless you have the right tools. That’s where insulated coffee mugs come in. With the right equipment, you can enjoy delicious coffee surrounded by nature.
Insulated coffee mugs can keep your beverage hot for hours and are perfect for sipping on throughout the day or sharing with fellow campers. They also typically have lids that prevent spills and help retain heat longer.
Portable Coffee Grinders
Portable coffee grinders are essential for any serious outdoor enthusiast who wants to enjoy their favourite brew while camping or hiking. They come in different sizes and shapes, but they all share one thing in common- they grind your beans on the go! These grinders are perfect for those who want to experience the full flavour profile of freshly ground beans no matter where they find themselves.
Tips To Help You Make The Perfect Cup Of Coffee While Camping
Making coffee while camping can be an enjoyable experience, but it can also be tricky if you’re not used to it. Here are some tips to help you make the perfect cup of coffee while camping:
- Use the right coffee-making equipment: Bring the right equipment for making coffee while camping. A portable coffee maker, a French press, or a pour-over coffee maker are all great options.
- Bring freshly roasted coffee beans: Freshly roasted coffee beans will give you the best possible flavour, so try to bring beans that have been roasted within the past week or two.
- Use good quality water: The quality of the water you use can greatly impact the taste of your coffee. Use filtered or bottled water instead of tap water.
- Boil the water before brewing: Boil the water before brewing your coffee to ensure it’s hot enough to extract the full flavour from the coffee beans.
- Don’t overpack your coffee filter: Overpacking your coffee filter can cause the coffee to brew too slowly, resulting in a weak cup of coffee. Use a ratio of 1 to 2 tablespoons of coffee per cup of water, depending on how strong you like your coffee.
- Keep it clean: Make sure to clean your coffee-making equipment after each use to prevent any lingering flavours from previous batches.
- Experiment with different brewing methods: There are many different ways to make coffee while camping, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different brewing methods to find the one that works best for you.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a delicious cup of coffee while camping that rivals the best coffee shops in town!
Conclusion
Making coffee while camping is a fun and rewarding experience. Whether waking up to a beautiful sunrise in the backcountry or enjoying a cup of coffee around the campfire with friends, there’s nothing quite like the taste of fresh coffee in the great outdoors.
By choosing the right brewing method and gathering the right supplies, you can make delicious coffee no matter where you are. From French presses to pour-over coffee makers and percolators, there’s a coffee brewing method that will suit your taste preferences and camping style.
Remember to prepare your coffee beans and equipment before you go, and store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. And don’t forget to pack a durable coffee mug to enjoy your coffee in style.
So, whether you’re an experienced camper or a beginner, making coffee while camping is simple and enjoyable. With the right tools and preparation, you can enjoy a delicious coffee outdoors and create unforgettable memories.
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FAQS
How do I boil water for coffee while camping?
You can boil water for coffee while camping using a camp stove or over an open fire. Using a heat-resistant container and bringing enough fuel to boil the water you need is important.
Can I grind my coffee beans before camping?
You can grind your coffee beans before camping to save time and ensure fresh coffee. Just store your coffee in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
What should I do with leftover coffee grounds while camping?
You should pack out your leftover coffee grounds while camping, just like any other trash. Coffee grounds can harm the environment and attract animals to your campsite.
