Top 10 · Compare
Compare Best Backpacking Coffee Makers head to head
Pick any two picks from this list and see specs, current price, pros, cons and reader ratings side by side.
#10 on this list
Starbucks VIA Instant Coffee
Starbucks
Sometimes, the best coffee maker is no coffee maker at all. For the backpacker who prioritizes speed, efficiency, and absolutely minimal weight above all else, Starbucks VIA Instant Coffee (or any high-quality instant coffee, like Alpine Start or Kuju Coffee) is the undisputed champion. There's no gear to carry, no cleanup whatsoever, and absolutely no technique required beyond boiling water. You simply tear open a packet, pour it into your mug, add hot water, and stir. While instant coffee has historically gotten a bad rap, products like VIA have significantly improved the taste and quality, offering a surprisingly decent cup that's miles better than the old freeze-dried granules. It's not going to win any awards for complexity or nuance, but it's hot, it's caffeinated, and it's ready in about 30 seconds. For cold mornings when you just need a jolt, or for long-distance hikers where every gram and minute counts, instant coffee is the pragmatic, no-nonsense choice. It's not fancy, but it gets the job done without any fuss. **Highlights** * Zero gear, zero cleanup, ultra-minimalist. * Extremely lightweight and space-efficient. * Quickest and easiest brewing method. * Surprisingly good taste compared to traditional instant coffee. * Readily available for resupply on longer trips. **Watch-outs** * Taste is not comparable to fresh-brewed coffee. * Generates trash (empty packets). * Can be relatively expensive per serving. * Lacks the 'ritual' component of brewing coffee.
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#1 on this list
Aeropress Go
AeroPress
The Aeropress Go is for the backpacker who refuses to compromise on their coffee quality, even deep in the wilderness. It's a remarkably versatile and forgiving brewing method that consistently delivers a clean, strong, and nuanced cup, akin to an immersion brewer but with the clarity of a pour-over. This compact version thoughtfully integrates all necessary components—brewer, mug, stir paddle, and filters—into a single, self-contained unit that fits neatly into your pack. Its robust plastic construction can handle the rigors of trail life, shrugging off bumps and drops that would shatter a glass press. The beauty of the Aeropress lies in its full immersion brewing process followed by a quick plunge, extracting maximum flavor with minimal effort. Cleanup is also a breeze; just pop out the coffee puck, give it a quick rinse, and you're ready for the next brew. While it's not the absolute lightest option, the quality of the coffee and its sheer convenience make the slight weight penalty entirely justifiable for most. **Highlights** * Consistently brews excellent, full-bodied coffee with minimal effort. * Compact, self-contained design with integrated mug and accessories. * Durable, trail-ready construction from food-grade plastic. * Extremely easy and quick cleanup – ideal for campsite conditions. * Versatile; can make espresso-style concentrate or Americano. **Watch-outs** * Requires paper filters, though reusable metal filters are available separately. * Slightly heavier and bulkier than minimalist pour-over options. * Brew capacity is limited to one large mug or a couple smaller servings per brew.
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Starbucks VIA Instant Coffee | Aeropress Go |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Instant Coffee | — |
| Gear Required | None (just a mug) | — |
| Cleanup | Minimal (empty packet) | Ejection & Rinse |
| Taste Profile | Surprisingly decent for instant | — |
| Weight Impact | Negligible | — |
| Setup Time | Under 1 minute | — |
| Brew Method | — | Immersion / Press |
| Materials | — | BPA-free Polypropylene |
| Brew Time | — | 1-2 minutes |
| Capacity | — | Up to 8 oz concentrate |
| Weight (full kit) | — | 11.3 oz (320g) |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Starbucks VIA Instant Coffee
- Ultra-lightweight, negligible pack weight
- Zero specialized gear needed, just a mug
- Fastest way to get coffee, seconds to prepare
- No cleanup, eliminates trail mess
- Surprisingly decent taste for instant coffee
- Readily available for resupply on extended trips
- Taste is inferior to fresh-brewed coffee
- Generates single-use trash (empty packets)
- Can be more expensive per serving
- Lacks the 'ritual' or sensory experience of brewing
Aeropress Go
- Consistently brews clean, full-bodied coffee with no grit
- Compact, self-contained kit includes mug and accessories
- Extremely durable and forgiving polypropylene construction
- Remarkably quick and easy to clean in the field
- Versatile for making concentrate or Americano style coffee
- Slightly heavier than ultra-minimalist options
- Requires paper filters, though reusable options exist separately
- Limited to single-serving or two small servings per brew
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.