Amazing Coffee While Camping: Can It Be Done?

Coffee While Camping – Can It Be Done Right?

Coffee is more than just a morning ritual; it’s a moment of peace, a burst of energy, and sometimes, a necessity. But what about when you’re camping? The wilderness has no barista waiting to whip up your favorite brew. So, can coffee while camping be done right? Absolutely! Now let’s make it happen, even in the great outdoors.

How I Made Coffee on My Recent Hike

I had packed my bag like a “seasoned” adventurer: coffee beans, a new collapsible coffee dripper, and a suspiciously over-engineered fly that doubled as shelter. My walking pole clacked against the dirt as I hiked through two hours of dense bush, slipping on mud and passing streams. Halfway in, the sky darkened, and the inevitable happened—it started raining.

No worries, I thought. Shelter time! I rigged up the fly with my hiking pole like a pro. Well, a pro who misjudges wind direction. It took a couple of tries, but I managed to create a snug, albeit slanted, nook. Time for coffee.

I pulled out my fancy electric grinder, only to realize I had one mission of misfortune left: to run out of battery. But I refused defeat! Spamming the grind button in stubborn bursts, I eventually coaxed enough grounds for one cup. The pour-over process became an art form of patience, but soon, the rich aroma filled my little sanctuary.

No panoramic view today, but with the rain tapping on the fly and birds calling from the dripping trees, I found my peace. Coffee while camping never tasted this adventurous.

For many of us, a day without coffee is like a day without sunshine. But when you’re out in nature, the experience of sipping a freshly brewed cup as the sun rises over the horizon is something else. It’s not just about the caffeine; it’s about the ritual, the comfort, the warmth, and the sharing of a memory and a moment.

Choosing the Right Gear for Coffee While Camping

First things first, you need the right equipment. Whether you’re car camping with ample space or backpacking with limited room, there’s a coffee maker out there for you. From portable espresso makers to lightweight pour-over setups, the options are endless.

Today, I’ve opted for the lightweight pour-over setup. It’s inexpensive and folds flat, making it easy to carry and even harder to break while it bounces around in your backpack. You’ll notice a few other items that are OTT and not really necessary. I’ll note the things you can do without and how to prepare these before your trip. This will save you space and weight, which are important things to consider when hiking or camping.

• Fly/ Tent
• Ground Sheet
• Walking Pole (Used to turn my fly into a tent.)
• Gas Stove & Pot
• Folding Pour-Over
• Filter Paper
• Grinder (Or grind your beans before leaving.)
• Beans / Coffee Grounds
• Scale
• Gooseneck Kettle (You can pour directly from the pot.)

How to Make Coffee While Camping?

Basically, it is the same as making coffee at home. There are a few luxuries you are denied out in the wild that can make it difficult if not impossible if missed.
The first is clean water. I’m lucky enough to have fresh water in running streams all around me. If you don’t have access to this make sure you take enough water along, both staying hydrated and brew your coffee. The next is a way to get your water boiling. If you are using a fire then you best know how to get one started. An easy solution and what I used is a portable gas stove with a lightweight camping pot.

Lastly, something to pour the hot water. I used to pour directly from the pot and it worked but more often than not I would spill and you don’t get a very even pour over the coffee grounds. If you want to get the best out of your coffee experience get a kettle that can pour slowly and evenly.

Then there are the gray areas, sure you can do without these pieces of equipment but they limit you from getting a great cup of coffee, and that is what we are trying to do, have great coffee outdoors.
It’s a scale and a grinder. The digital scale is small and light but not durable. The grinder I have is about the size of a drinking bottle. It’s heavy, but it’s electric and allows me to have freshly ground coffee out in the bush. You can get away with bringing pre-ground coffee in an airtight sealable bag. But freshly ground is always better.

How Do You Make Coffee Camping Without a Stove?

No stove? No problem! You can use a campfire or a portable gas burner. There are many options out there and most don’t have to cost you a lot of money. My goal is to get you out there to enjoy a cup of coffee.

I may be judged for this, but if you can’t find a way to boil your water then you can get a good quality insulated flask and brew your coffee at home before you leave. It should keep warm for up to 10 hrs. Or take some hot water with you and make instant coffee.
If the coffee goes cold overnight then imagine that you made yourself the best cold brew to enjoy while on your trip. 

We don’t always get our coffee right and that is the art of it, but one thing that I love about being outdoors is that a great view always makes your coffee taste better.

What Is the Ratio for Camp Coffee?

The coffee-to-water ratio is crucial, even in the wilderness. A good starting point is 1:15, meaning 1 gram of coffee for every 15 grams of water. If you like your coffee stronger, reduce the water. For a lighter brew, add more water. It’s all about finding your perfect balance.

Now I know that measuring water and coffee when you are out in the bush isn’t always easy, yeah the view and fresh air are great but surfaces are uneven and you may not have a scale or measuring jug with you. Here are my hacks.

1. When you have less, care less. You may make a bad coffee but next time you may nail it and have the best cup of your life. Don’t stress about the details. You’re out there to have a good time.

2. Pre-measure. Use a scoop or a spoon that you’ve measured at home so that you know how many grams of coffee it holds and use that. Get a water bottle with measurements on it. 1ml of water = 1g. 

Coffee Brewing Over a Campfire

There’s something magical about brewing coffee over a campfire. The crackling wood, the smoky aroma—it’s an experience in itself. A classic percolator or cowboy coffee (boiling coffee grounds in water and letting them settle) works well here. Just be patient and keep an eye on the heat.

This is the most ancient way of drinking coffee and how it was done hundreds of years ago. It is actually still the way the specialty coffee you are drinking today is first sampled and graded before it is bought and roasted by your favorite cafe.

The Best Portable Coffee Makers for Camping

When choosing a portable coffee maker, consider factors like weight, size, durability, and ease of use. Some popular choices include:

• AeroPress: Compact, versatile, and easy to clean.
• Collapsable Coffee Dripper: Lightweight pour-over system.
• Snow Peak Titanium French Press: Durable and perfect for minimalist campers.

Tips for Making Coffee Without Electricity

When you’re off the grid, electricity isn’t an option. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a good cup of coffee. Use a campfire, portable stove, or solar kettle to heat water. Hand grinders are great for freshly ground coffee, and manual coffee makers like the AeroPress or French Press are perfect for brewing.

How to Keep Your Coffee Warm While Camping

Keeping your coffee warm can be a challenge, especially on chilly mornings. Insulated mugs and thermoses are your best friends. Preheating your mug with hot water before pouring in your coffee can also help. If you’re making a big batch, a thermal carafe is a great option.

Best Coffee for Camping

Choosing the right coffee is just as important as the brewing method. Opt for freshly roasted beans if you have a grinder, or pre-ground coffee for convenience. Medium to dark roasts are great for camping as they tend to hold up well to various brewing methods and temperatures.

This doesn’t mean you need to make a bad coffee, it only means that you might not get the perfect cup if you take a lightly roasted coffee that requires all the details and attention to extract those nuanced flavors. If you’re starting out and you don’t really know what coffees to start with here is a simple tip. Look at the flavor descriptions of the coffee. Stick with coffees that mention dark chocolate, nuts, cocoa, milk chocolate, malt, brown sugar, caramel, and honey. These coffee flavors tend to hold up even if your brewing method varies while out in the bush. 

How to Make Espresso Coffee While Camping

Craving a shot of espresso in the wilderness? A portable espresso maker is the answer. Devices like the Wacaco Nanopresso or Handpresso are designed for camping and require only hot water and ground coffee. They may not match a commercial espresso machine, but they get pretty close.

The Art of Cold Brew Coffee While Camping

A cold brew is a fantastic option for warm-weather camping. It’s smooth, refreshing, and easy to make. Combine coarsely ground coffee with cold water in a container, let it steep for 12-24 hours, and strain. You can even make a large batch and store it in a cooler. 

Creative Coffee Additions

Why not spice things up? Consider adding a dash of cinnamon, cocoa powder, or even a splash of whiskey to your coffee. These additions can elevate your camping coffee experience and make it even more enjoyable. 

Camping Coffee Hacks

• Use a bandana or sock as a makeshift coffee filter. (you have to be pretty desperate at this point)
• Keep instant coffee packets as a backup.
• Pre-measure your coffee grounds and store them in small containers for easy use.
• Consider a collapsible coffee maker for easy packing.
• Invest in a good-quality insulated mug to keep your coffee warm.

The Best Time to Brew Coffee While Camping

Timing is everything. Brew your coffee right before you’re ready to drink it for the best flavor. There is nothing worse than going through the effort of making a cup of coffee and then realizing that you forgot to collect the firewood or didn’t finish setting up your tent before it gets dark. If you’re making a cold brew, prepare it the night before so it’s ready to enjoy in the morning.

Enjoying Coffee With a View

One of the best parts of camping is enjoying a good cup of coffee with a stunning view. Find a quiet spot, sit back, and savor the moment. Whether it’s a mountain vista, a serene lake, or a lush forest, coffee always tastes better when in nature.

How to Store Coffee While Camping

Storing coffee properly is crucial to maintaining its freshness. Keep your coffee beans or grounds in an airtight container, away from direct sunlight and moisture. If you’re using pre-ground coffee, consider vacuum-sealed bags or a zipper storage bag. Pressing as much air out of it does make a difference, especially if you are doing a multi-day hike.

How to Dispose of Coffee Grounds Responsibly

Leave no trace is a fundamental principle of camping. When it comes to coffee grounds, avoid dumping them directly on the ground where people walk or camp. Instead, pack them out or scatter them in the bush a few yards off the trail. Coffee is great for composting so won’t harm the environment. Be aware of the type of filter you use. Not all filters are biodegradable and they take much longer to disintegrate so consider digging a hole to place it in. Also, be aware of any drinking water sources around. It won’t be toxic to drink the water but it may be unpleasant for the next people that grab some water.

Conclusion

Making coffee while camping doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right gear, a bit of planning, and a love for the brew, you can enjoy a delicious cup of coffee no matter where your adventures take you. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a weekend warrior, there’s a method and style of coffee that will suit your needs. So, next time you’re packing for a trip, don’t forget the coffee essentials. After all, a good day in the wild starts with a great cup of coffee.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular coffee grounds for camping? Yes, regular coffee grounds work just fine. Just make sure to pack them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
2. What’s the easiest way to make coffee while camping? Instant coffee is the simplest option, requiring only hot water. If you prefer brewed coffee, a French press or AeroPress is easy and convenient.
3. How do I grind my coffee while camping? A hand grinder is ideal for freshly ground coffee. However, you can also pre-grind your coffee at home for convenience.
4. Is cold brew coffee good for camping? Absolutely! It’s easy to make, refreshing and can be prepared in advance. Just make sure to keep it cool in a cooler or insulated container.
5. How do I heat my water while camping/ hiking? Yes, you can use a portable gas burner or even solar kettles to heat water. In a pinch, cold brew coffee or instant coffee are great alternatives.