9 ways to make campsite coffee

Maybe it’s the scent of fresh coffee wafting through the crisp morning air. Maybe it’s the satisfaction of sipping a lovingly-made brew while you gaze out across the wild, silent panorama. Or maybe you’ve just had a bit of a rough night in a chilly tent and you need a proper pick-up to greet the day (and be nice to your fellow campers).

Whatever your motivation, there’s no denying a cup of hot coffee hits different outdoors. So for all the caffeine lovers out there, here are a few different ways to make your morning cuppa when you crawl out of your sleeping bag. It might not be barista standard, but it’ll hit the mark.

Note: you will need water and a camp stove!*

Discover the best ways to make coffee on your camping trip

1. INSTANT COFFEE

This option might not win any latte art awards or please the coffee snobs, but it has the bonus of being lightweight, simple and well… instant. Simply tear open the packet, tip the contents into a cup, pour hot water and stir.

Choose your brand wisely and it’s actually pretty good.

2. POUR-OVER COFFEE

Again, this camper version is probably not what your local barista had in mind when thinking of pour-over coffee, but it has the benefit of being easy to make on-the-go.

Fit a coffee filter into a pour-over frame and place over a jug or mug. Wet the filter a little, add ground beans and gently pour hot water from your camp stove over the top. Let the water drip through until you have a nice steamy cuppa to start the day.

3. COFFEE BAGS

Like a teabag, just well… with coffee.

To make your own, put a couple of heaped teaspoons of ground coffee in the middle of a coffee filter, gently gather it up round the coffee and twist to close. Secure with a string, place in your mug and pour in boiling water. Leave to steep and voilà, your caffeine shot is coming.

Prepare at home for extra convenience or, if you’re feeling lazy, buy the bags ready-made from one of your favourite brands.

4. FRENCH PRESS

If you have a little more space in your pack, a French press can be a great, easy option. Find a size that fits your needs, add ground coffee followed by hot water and place the raised plunger and lid on the pot. Leave to sit for a few minutes while you pack away your sleeping bag, then slowly push the press all the way down. Pour and enjoy!

5. AEROPRESS

Screw the filter onto the device and place over your mug. Add ground coffee and hot water, insert the plunger and gently press down. Make sure your mug is on a level surface!

Unfortunately you’ll only get one cup out of your Aeropress so your camp buddies may be left waiting, but it is super lightweight, brews in a minute and is easy to pack.

6. PERCOLATOR OR MOKA POT

They may be a little heavier and bulkier but if you’re looking for true camping style and rich coffee flavours, make sure you pack one of these stovetop pots. Fill the chamber with water and the filter basket with ground beans. For the moka pot, screw on the upper section. Place over your camp stove and wait until the water boils, then enjoy your freshly brewed espresso.

7. PORTABLE PROPANE COFFEE MAKER / BATTERY-POWERED COFFEE MAKER

There are numerous options on the market that allow you to replicate your home kitchen appliance out in the wild. Simply attach a mini propane canister tank instead of plugging it into the mains, or opt for a battery-powered coffee maker. These options work well for large groups and campsites but can be a little bulky if you’re heading up the mountain with a backpack.

8. COWBOY COFFFEE

You have the beans but forgot the coffee maker? No problem. This option might send the baristas running for their lives but if you get it right, will definitely add flavour to your adventure.

Boil water in a pot and remove from the heat. Add in ground beans and stir gently. Let sit for a couple of minutes, stir again, leave again. Pour slowly to avoid getting the grounds in your mug. Practice your coffee-to-water ratio to get the best result.

9. *COLD BREW

It’s the end of your camping trip. You’re out of gas so you can’t even heat water for your last cuppa… Worry not! The night before, combine ground coffee and cold water in a large pot or jug. Cover and let steep for at least 10 hours. In the morning, pour into another container or mug through a filter or fine strainer. Savour cold!