5 Coffee Systems You Can Take Along For The Hike

Just because we’re forsaking the comforts of home, doesn’t mean we can’t have that morning demitasse of sweet caffeinated goodness. A cup of coffee is just not one of the luxuries worth giving up after a night under those frosty alpine stars. We’ve compiled a quick look at some of the best options out there for perking up while checked out.

1. GSI Javapress $30

This 30oz Java Press is light and easy to use, just mix delicious coffee grounds with water and a simple plunge is all it takes for that morning pick-me-up.  The BPA plastic container and insulated sleeve makes it durable enough for the inevitable abuse without the bulk. The Javapress doesn’t give the concentrated quality of a pulled shot, but for a fast cup of coffee it’s hard to beat. 

2. JetBoil Coffee Press $15

For the lucky hikers with a jetboil, this integrated coffee press fits right into the main container for fast and easy brewing with almost no added bulk.

3. Handpresso $135

The compact and sleek 1.1 lb system gives consistent high quality shots pumping up to 16 bars of pressure.  Operating the system at camp is easy with either no-mess pods or ground coffee, just pump the base 15-20 times and push a button for a fast and exceptional shot. For Car Campers, the Auto ESA  ($150) plugs into a 12v source for a great cup without the hassle of the drive-through.

4. Portaspresso Aluminum Air Espresso Kit $400

For those that can’t stand even a day without the very best, this system is far and away superior. Still compact but a bit heavier, this option comes in at 1.3 lbs. The little system doesn’t have an integrated pump and is complex, but the construction is predominately metal, lending to a much more durable package. Utilizing a small hand pump is all it takes to build pressure and produce cafe’ quality shots of joe.

5. Mypressi Twist V2 $165

Currently completely sold out (for the next month or so), this elegant system uses small gas cartridges for the pressure and makes it hard to mess up that java pull.  The twist pours two shots at once for a fast jolt of early morning domination. This option is compact and easy to use, but it’s debatable how big a footprint the used air canisters leave on our planet.

Honorable Mention:

* Starbucks Via Instant Coffee $.65 - $95 a cup

I you’re going to go granular, the Starbucks Via packets are a step up from chewing raw beans, but just barely. Honestly, a little bit of me dies every time a cup of this microground is brewed up in camp. With over a dozen roast choices there is a passable cup of Via out there for anyone not willing to sacrifice a bit of weight and space for an actual cup of joe, but choking down this concoction is just rough.