travel pot

Travel Crock Pot: 10 Best Portable Slow Cookers for On-the-Go Meals

by Larissa T | Aug 6, 2023 | Travel | 0 comments

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Travel crock pots are a convenient solution for people who want to enjoy home-cooked meals on the go. Whether you’re traveling in an RV, camping, or simply commuting to work, a travel crock pot allows you to prepare delicious meals without sacrificing convenience. These compact appliances are designed to be portable and easy to use, making them an ideal choice for busy people who want to eat healthy, home-cooked meals without spending hours in the kitchen.

When shopping for a travel crock pot, there are several factors to consider. The size of the crock pot is an important consideration, as it will determine how much food you can prepare at once. Other important factors include the material of the crock pot, the temperature control options, and the overall durability of the appliance.

We spent hours researching and testing several travel crock pots to identify the best options on the market. Our goal was to find crock pots that were easy to use, durable, and capable of producing delicious meals on the go. After careful consideration, we identified the top travel crock pots that are sure to meet the needs of any busy individual looking to enjoy home-cooked meals while on the move.

Table of Contents

Best travel crock pots.

Traveling can be a lot of fun, but finding healthy and affordable food options on the road can be a challenge. Luckily, travel crock pots make it easy to prepare delicious meals while you’re on the go. We’ve rounded up the best travel crock pots on the market to help you find the perfect one for your next adventure.

Crock-Pot Lunch Crock Food Warmer

This is a great product for anyone who wants to enjoy warm, flavorful meals on the go.

• The 20-ounce capacity is perfect for personal portion lunches or for dips.
• The exterior doesn’t get hot when in use, which makes it safe to transport.
• The easy travel lid makes it easy to carry around.
• The cord may be too short for some users.
• It may take longer to heat up than expected.
• The container may be too small for some users.

This Crock-Pot Lunch Crock Food Warmer is a great way to enjoy warm, flavorful meals on the go. The 20-ounce capacity is perfect for personal portion lunches or for dips. The exterior doesn’t get hot when in use, which makes it safe to transport. The easy travel lid makes it easy to carry around. However, the cord may be too short for some users, and it may take longer to heat up than expected. Additionally, the container may be too small for some users.

If you’re looking for a convenient and easy way to enjoy warm meals on the go, the Crock-Pot Lunch Crock Food Warmer is definitely worth considering. Just be aware of the potential downsides before making your purchase.

Presto Nomad Traveling Slow Cooker

If you’re looking for a slow cooker that you can take on the road, the Presto Nomad Traveling Slow Cooker is worth considering.

• The swing-up handle makes carrying easy, and the locking lid seals tight for spill-proof transport.
• The rugged, wide-profile “picnic cooler-style” design with cool-touch housing prevents tip-overs when traveling.
• The extra-large 8-quart size will hold enough food to feed a crowd.
• The built-in dry erase board with marker is a bit gimmicky and not very useful.
• The slow-cooking function may take longer than expected, so plan accordingly.
• The cord is a bit short, so you may need an extension cord if you’re not near an outlet.

The Presto Nomad Traveling Slow Cooker is a great option for those who love to cook and want to take their meals on the go. The swing-up handle makes it easy to carry, and the locking lid ensures that your food won’t spill during transport. The rugged, wide-profile “picnic cooler-style” design is also a nice touch, as it prevents tip-overs when traveling.

One of the best things about the Presto Nomad Traveling Slow Cooker is its extra-large 8-quart size. This means that you can cook enough food to feed a crowd, making it perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, and more.

However, there are a few downsides to this slow cooker. The built-in dry erase board with marker is a bit gimmicky and not very useful. Additionally, the slow-cooking function may take longer than expected, so you’ll need to plan accordingly. Finally, the cord is a bit short, so you may need an extension cord if you’re not near an outlet.

Overall, if you’re looking for a slow cooker that you can take on the road, the Presto Nomad Traveling Slow Cooker is a solid choice. Its rugged design, large capacity, and spill-proof transport make it a convenient and practical option for anyone who loves to cook.

Crock-Pot 6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer, Stainless Steel (SCCPVL610-S-A)

If you are looking for a portable slow cooker, the Crock-Pot 6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer is a great option.

• The locking lid and rubber gasket create an airtight seal, preventing spills on the go.
• The digital panel allows you to customize your cooking time and temperature.
• The slow cooker automatically shifts to Warm after cooking is complete to maintain food temperature and flavor.
• The cord length is only 24 inches, which may limit where you can use it.
• The slow cooker is relatively heavy at 16.18 pounds, making it less convenient to carry around.
• The lid can be difficult to clean due to its design.

In my experience, the Crock-Pot 6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer is a reliable and easy-to-use slow cooker. The locking lid and rubber gasket make it great for transporting food without spills, and the digital panel allows for customized cooking times and temperatures. Additionally, the slow cooker automatically shifts to Warm after cooking is complete, which is convenient for maintaining food temperature and flavor.

However, the cord length is relatively short at only 24 inches, which may limit where you can use it. Additionally, the slow cooker is relatively heavy at 16.18 pounds, making it less convenient to carry around. Finally, the lid can be difficult to clean due to its design.

Overall, I would recommend the Crock-Pot 6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer for anyone looking for a reliable and convenient portable slow cooker.

Crock-Pot Large 8 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker with Auto Warm Setting and Cookbook, Black Stainless Steel

If you’re looking for a reliable and spacious slow cooker, the Crock-Pot Large 8 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker is definitely worth considering.

• The 8-quart capacity is perfect for preparing food for 10 plus people.
• The digital timer counts down cook time up to 20 hours.
• The automatic warming function keeps food warm after cooking is done.
• The stoneware and lid cannot withstand sudden temperature changes.
• The stoneware and lid should not be washed with cold water when they are hot.
• In case of a brief power outage or blinking, all the previous settings will be cleared, and a reset is necessary.

This slow cooker is perfect for those who love to cook for a crowd. The 8-quart capacity is more than enough to prepare food for 10 plus people. The digital timer counts down cook time up to 20 hours, making it easy to plan meals in advance. The automatic warming function is a great feature that keeps food warm after cooking is done, ensuring that your meal stays hot and ready to serve.

One thing to keep in mind is that the stoneware and lid cannot withstand sudden temperature changes. It’s important to avoid washing them with cold water when they are hot to avoid cracking. Additionally, in case of a brief power outage or blinking, all the previous settings will be cleared, and a reset is necessary.

Overall, the Crock-Pot Large 8 Quart Programmable Slow Cooker is a great investment for anyone who loves to cook for a crowd. It’s easy to use, spacious, and comes with a cookbook full of classic Crock-Pot recipes to try out.

Crock-Pot 6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer

If you’re looking for a portable slow cooker that can handle your cooking needs on the go, the Crock-Pot 6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer could be the perfect option for you.

• The 6 quart size can serve 7+ people, making it great for potlucks and family gatherings.
• The digital countdown control lets you program cook times anywhere from 30 minutes up to 20 hours, and shifts to Warm setting automatically once cook time completes.
• The locking lid featuring lid gasket provides extra seal for less mess on the go.
• The cord length may be too short for some users.
• The seal around the cover may not be durable enough for long-term use.
• The slow cooker cooks faster on the low temperature setting than some users may prefer.

This slow cooker is easy to use and clean, and the digital panel allows you to customize your cooking time and set the temperature on High, Low, and Warm. The secure locking lid and rubber gasket create an airtight seal, helping to prevent spills on the road so that food stays inside. After cooking is complete, the slow cooker will automatically shift to Warm for up to 6 hours to help maintain food temperature and flavor. With dishwasher safe components, this is the perfect digital slow cooker just about anytime you need to transport food prepared at home.

In summary, the Crock-Pot 6 Quart Cook & Carry Programmable Slow Cooker with Digital Timer is a reliable and convenient option for anyone in need of a portable slow cooker.

If you’re looking for a portable food warmer that can keep your meals warm while you’re on the go, the Crock-Pot Lunch Crock Food Warmer is an excellent choice.

• The 20-ounce size is perfect for taking leftovers, soups, chili, and more with you, then easily warming them up when you’re ready to eat.
• The detachable cord makes it easy to store and transport the food warmer without clutter.
• The tight-sealing lid and removable storage container help prevent spills while on the go.
• The 20-ounce capacity may not be enough for those who prefer larger portions.
• The food warmer takes some time to heat up, so you may need to plan ahead.
• The plastic container may not be as durable as some users would like.

The Crock-Pot Lunch Crock Food Warmer is a convenient and easy-to-use food warmer that’s perfect for people who are always on the go. With its modern-vintage aesthetic and elegant Sphinx Pink color, it’s stylish as well. The 20-ounce capacity is perfect for carrying and warming meals whether you’re in the office, working from home, or on a road trip.

This portable food warmer features a tight-closing outer lid to help reduce spills, as well as an easy-carry handle, soft-touch coating, and detachable cord. The container is removable for effortless filling, carrying, and storage. Cleanup is easy, too: the inner container and lid are dishwasher-safe.

Overall, the Crock-Pot Lunch Crock Food Warmer is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a portable food warmer that’s easy to use and convenient to carry. It’s perfect for taking your favorite meals with you wherever you go, and it’s ideal for carrying and warming meals while you’re on the go.

Crock-Pot Electric Lunch Box

This portable food warmer is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy a hot meal on the go.

• The 20-ounce size is perfect for taking your favorite leftovers, soups, chili, and more with you, then easily warming them up when you’re ready to eat.
• The cord detaches easily for clutter-free storage.
• The 20-ounce size may not be enough for some people’s needs.
• The power cord may be too short for some users.
• The container may not keep food hot for as long as some users would like.

If you’re looking for a convenient way to enjoy a hot meal on the go, the Crock-Pot Electric Lunch Box is a great choice. It’s easy to use, easy to clean, and the perfect size for one person.

The detachable cord makes it easy to store, and the tight-sealing lid and removable storage container help prevent spills while on the go. Plus, the modern-vintage aesthetic and elegant Moonshine Green color make it stylish, too.

Cleanup is a breeze, as the food storage container and inner lid are dishwasher-safe. And with its 20-ounce capacity, this heated lunch box is perfect whether you’re in the office, working from home, or on a road trip.

Overall, the Crock-Pot Electric Lunch Box is a great investment for anyone who wants to enjoy a hot meal on the go.

If you are looking for a portable food warmer that is convenient and easy to carry, the Crock-Pot Lunch Crock Food Warmer is a great option.

• The 20-ounce size is perfect for taking your favorite leftovers, soups, chili, and more, then easily warming them up when you’re ready to eat.
• The detachable cord makes for clutter-free storage.
• The 20-ounce capacity may not be enough for those with larger appetites.
• The food warmer may take longer to heat up compared to other portable food warmers.
• The soft-touch coating may be prone to scratches and scuffs.

The Crock-Pot Lunch Crock Food Warmer is a great option for those who want to enjoy a hot meal on the go. Its 20-ounce size is perfect for one person and is ideal for carrying and warming meals while you’re on the go. Its tight-closing outer lid helps reduce spills, and the detachable cord makes for clutter-free storage.

The food warmer features a modern-vintage aesthetic and elegant Black Licorice color, making it stylish to carry around. Its soft-touch coating provides a modern soft-touch exterior, making it comfortable to hold.

The container is removable for effortless filling, carrying, and storage, and the inner container and lid are dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup. Overall, the Crock-Pot Lunch Crock Food Warmer is a convenient and stylish way to enjoy a hot meal on the go.

If you’re looking for a portable food warmer that’s easy to carry and perfect for leftovers, soups, chili, and more, then the Crock-Pot Electric Lunch Box is a great option.

• Convenient 20-oz. size makes it perfect for taking your favorite meals on-the-go, then easily warming them up when you’re ready to eat.
• The tight-sealing lid and removable storage container help prevent spills while on the move.
• The food storage container and inner lid are dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup.
• The 20-ounce capacity may not be sufficient for larger meals or for sharing.
• The heating element takes some time to warm up the food.
• The plastic container may not be as durable as glass containers.

The Crock-Pot Electric Lunch Box is a great option for anyone who wants to take their favorite meals with them wherever they go. The container is perfectly sized for one person, making it ideal for carrying and warming meals while you’re on the go. With its 20-ounce capacity, this heated lunch box is perfect whether you’re in the office, working from home, or on a road trip. The container is removable for effortless filling, carrying, and storage, and the inner lid and container are dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup.

One of the best features of this portable food warmer is the tight-closing outer lid that helps reduce spills, making it perfect for taking on the go. The detachable cord makes it easy to store, and the soft-touch coating provides a modern, soft-touch exterior. The Black Licorice finish gives it a modern-vintage aesthetic that’s sure to impress.

Overall, the Crock-Pot Electric Lunch Box is a great option for anyone who wants to take their favorite meals with them on the go. It’s easy to use, easy to carry, and easy to clean, making it a convenient and practical choice for anyone who wants to enjoy their meals at the perfect temperature.

HOMEST Slow Cooker Bag

If you’re looking for a durable and insulated travel carrier for your 6-8 quart crock pot, the HOMEST Slow Cooker Bag is a great option.

• Ultimate convenience with its padded adjustable strap and handle.
• Fully insulated lining to keep meals hot for more hours.
• Extra compartment on top for whatever.
• Some users may find it too bulky.
• The zipper may get stuck sometimes.
• It may not fit all types of slow cookers.

This travel crock pot carrier is perfect for those who want to bring their slow-cooked meals to parties or gatherings. The padded adjustable strap and handle make it easy to carry, and the fully insulated lining keeps meals hot for hours. The extra compartment on top is also a great feature, providing extra space for utensils or other items.

The HOMEST Slow Cooker Bag is also easy to clean, thanks to its aluminum film lining. Any random liquid or food splashes can be wiped with a towel easily. Additionally, the front pocket is great for storing utensils and recipes, making your kitchen clean and tidy.

Overall, if you’re looking for a travel crock pot carrier that is durable, insulated, and convenient, the HOMEST Slow Cooker Bag is a great choice.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying a travel crock pot, there are a few things to consider to make sure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

The capacity of the crock pot is an essential factor to consider. If you are traveling alone or with a small group, a crock pot with a capacity of 1-2 quarts may be sufficient. However, if you are traveling with a larger group, you may need a crock pot with a capacity of 4-6 quarts.

Size and Weight

When choosing a travel crock pot, size and weight are also important factors to consider. You want a crock pot that is compact and lightweight enough to carry around with you. A small, portable crock pot is ideal for travel as it takes up less space and is easier to carry.

Temperature Settings

Temperature settings are also important to consider when choosing a travel crock pot. Look for a crock pot that has a range of temperature settings, including low, high, and warm. This will allow you to cook a variety of dishes and keep them warm until you are ready to serve.

Durability is another factor to consider when choosing a travel crock pot. Look for a crock pot that is made from high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of travel. A crock pot with a sturdy lid and base will help prevent spills and ensure that your food stays safe and secure during transport.

Additional Features

Finally, consider any additional features that may be important to you. Some crock pots come with removable stoneware inserts that are dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze. Others may have locking lids or built-in timers that allow you to set cooking times and temperatures. Consider what features are important to you and choose a crock pot that meets your needs.

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10 Best Camping Cookware Sets, Tested by Experts

The tools for delicious meals outdoors or over an open fire.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

We’ve reviewed our recommendations in this guide and continue to stand by them.

Our top picks:

Best Overall Camping Cookware Set

Gsi outdoors pinnacle camper cookset.

Best Value Camping Cookware Set

Stanley base camp cook set for 4.

Most Durable Camping Cookware Set

Stanley even-heat camp pro cookset.

Best Collapsible Camping Cookware Set

Sea to summit x-set 32.

Best Camping Cookware Set for Backpacking

Toaks titanium pot and cup combo set.

Best Camping Cookware Set for a Solo Day Trip

Soto navigator cook set.

Best Camping Cookware for RV/Car Camping

Lodge blacklock triple seasoned deep skillet.

Best Camping Cookware Set With Stove

Kelly kettle ultimate base camp kit.

Best Camping Cookware Set for Beginners

Woods selkirk anodized camping cook set.

Easiest-to-Clean Camping Cookware Set

Gsi outdoors bugaboo base camper cookset.

In the Good Housekeeping Institute , we’ve tested over 90 cookware sets , including nonstick , stainless steel , ceramic and copper . When we tested camping cookware, we evaluated their performance, like how well they were able to brown meat, and checked how easy they were to use to find the best camping cookware.

You can read more about how we evaluate camping cookware in our Lab and consumer tests — plus everything you need to know to shop for the best camping cookware — at the end of this guide. Looking for a tent or portable coffee maker to take on your camping trip? Check out our guide to the best camping tents and best portable coffee makers for camping .

GSI Outdoors' cookware set got us most excited about our next trip to the great outdoors. The smooth, Teflon-coated hard-anodized aluminum nonstick pans were the clear winner in our egg frying and cleaning tests, and the pans also boasted even heat distribution and uniform browning when we seared a steak on it. The eggs slid off the pan (without any oil!), and it just took a bit of hot water to completely clean the pan. The set also includes plates, mugs and bowls for four people which is not only convenient, but this was the only set that offered a fun mix of colors. The metal folding pot gripper does get hot while cooking, so exercise caution when touching with bare hands. That said, it was quite secure and easy to maneuver with a dish towel.

This cookware set comes with 21 pieces, was a top performer across all of our tests and you can snag it for under $100. There are enough plates, bowls and sporks to accommodate four people and our pros like how efficiently all the parts nested together. The vented lid is even marked with the correct stacking order so you can put it back together with ease when you're done cooking. In our tests, we were impressed by its ability to fry an egg without much sticking, plus the pans were extremely easy to clean after using.

If you're in the market for a stainless steel camping cookware set, look no further than this set from Stanley. The set contains a stainless steel stock pot, stainless steel frying pan and stainless steel saucepan that can make it through even the most rugged camping trip. Our experts found this set performed well in our egg frying and steak cooking tests compared to other stainless steel sets. Clean up was not as breezy as some of the other sets as it required extra soaking and scrubbing to rid the pan of crusted-on egg bits, but you can’t beat the efficiency and durability of this set. It's also stocked with trivets, a collapsible cutting board, a spatula and spoon for all your equipment needs.

Whereas most camp sets nest together in a large cylindrical shape, this set includes a large pot, kettle and pan that nest inside of each other to form a slim, compact disc. (The pot and kettle have expandable silicone walls, which make this type of nesting possible.) In our tests, the silicone handles on the pan stayed cool to the touch the entire time, and they conveniently folded into the pan when we were done using them. We also really liked how easy it was to clean after frying eggs and searing steaks. The fun silicone colors are also an added plus to this humble set. Just note that according to the brand, this camping cookware set is designed for use with a camping stove and not directly over an open flame because it can damage the silicone.

Solo backpackers may only need a simple pot and cup to help boil some water and consume a meal, which is why we liked this simple two-piece set. It was the lightest of the sets we tested, making it a great option for a backpacker. We liked the mesh storage sack which helps keep everything together neatly, and it's able to nest a gas canister (sold separately).

It's not quite big enough to fry an egg or sear a steak, but it's the perfect size to boil enough water for a dehydrated meal plus a cup of coffee or tea. It's a sturdy, basic set that’s great for a backpacker looking for a simple cooking set up. We found the metal handles got quite warm when using, so you'll need to make sure to use protective gear.

We love this cookware set for a solo camper. It's so super compact and light that you could easily stuff this into your backpack. In our tests, we found that this anodized aluminum was not as effective in frying an egg as other sets, but for low-maintence cooking tasks, like boiling water or frying a protein, this set was extremely proficient. It includes a metal piece that can double as both a handle for the pots as well as tongs, and the lid can be used as a cutting board, fuel canister stabilizer and a colander, which we found to be convenient and an efficient use of weight and space.

If you have the space in your car or RV to stow away a cast iron pot, there’s no better option than this cast iron deep skillet. A top performer in our boiling and searing tests, this pot offers even heat distribution and unmatched durability. Because of its heavy weight (almost 11 pounds) it can be a bit more difficult to maneuver (especially over a campfire) and clean than the lighter cookware sets, but you can’t beat the volume, toughness and look of this sleek cast iron pot. The side handles and aluminum knobs become quite hot while cooking, so always use protective wear.

Keep in mind, cast iron pots do require a bit more TLC than some of the other nonstick or aluminum camping cookware options, so plan to pack a clean rag and maybe a little bit of oil to help season the pot after you use it. In our tests, we also used the 5.5 quart Dutch oven, which offered the same results when searing a steak, frying an egg and boiling water. However, we found its slightly larger size to be a bit too much for outdoor camping.

Kelly Kettle's cookware set not only boasts a pot, a pan, cups and plates, but it also includes a large stove and kettle. The kettle and entire apparatus was no small undertaking, but we were impressed by the stove’s ability to hold a flame and stay warm. The metal pots and pans included in the set were quite hard to maneuver with the clip-on attachment, but it’s hard to match the convenience of having a source of fire with cookware and a kettle. In our tests, boiling water was incredibly easy and straightforward and it did not require much time. This kit may be excessive if you already have a camping stove or a jet boil, but if you’re looking for a set that offers both cookware and a source of heat, then this is a great option. If you plan to do a lot of cooking over the stove, it might be a good idea to bring other pans or pots because the ones included could only achieve basic tasks, like simmering water.

Small groups and families will love this four-piece camping cookware set. It's highly attractive, super lightweight and nest-able. While it was not a top performer in our egg frying tests and we found clean up to be a bit cumbersome, it was quite efficient in frying steaks and boiling water. We loved the foldable silicone handles, which never warmed up during cooking, making them super easy to maneuver. The metal kettle also set this cookware kit apart from its competitors because it was the only one with a fully metal kettle (other kettles had silicone sides which are not ideal for open fire because they can get damaged) that fit perfectly into the stacked set. While a lot of the other sets offer convenient perks like strainer lids, foldable cutting boards , utensils, plates and bowls, this did not offer any of those small add-ons, so plan to pack those in addition to this set.

Our Lab experts were extremely impressed with the nonstick coating on these pieces; the coating was so effective that we could fry and scramble eggs without a drop of oil and they still slid right off the pan! Not to mention, the pan cleaned up easily with warm water. If you’re staying at a campsite without water hook-ups, this is a great option that you can easily clean without a ton of water and scrubbing. This set is equipped with two pots, a fry pan and strainer lids, a cutting board, folding pot handle and a stuff sack that can double as a sink. To top it off, not only does the painted finish on the outside give it an attractive look, but it also protects the pot from abrasion or discoloration.

How we test camping cookware

When testing camping cookware we tested over 12 sets, made 50 eggs, seared 10 steaks and brought 10 quarts of water to boil. We assessed how well the pans were able to brown meat and if saucepans were able to maintain a simmer. We also tested how well the nonstick coating or stainless steel worked. We evaluated how easy the camping cookware sets were to use and clean, whether handles became how to the touch and how easy it was to reassemble the stacked nesting order.

What to consider when shopping for the best camping cookware sets

✔️ Weight and size: Depending on what kind of outdoor excursions you’re typically embarking on will factor into which cookware set is best for you. If you’re taking your cookware set backpacking, then you’ll definitely want a set that is light and compact. If you’re car- or RV-camping, you have a little bit more leeway with weight and size, since you have the luxury (well, in the realm of camping) of stowing it away. Sets that have pieces that easily nest together are always ideal because they are great for storage and help ensure that a piece never goes missing.

✔️ Number of pieces: Some camping cookware sets have upwards of 10 or 12 pieces whereas others only have two or three. Consider how many people you’ll be cooking for when you’re camping. If you’re only cooking for one, you can probably get away with having fewer pieces, but the more campers you’re feeding, the more pieces you’ll likely need for efficient and enjoyable cooking.

✔️ Ease of clean up: If you think doing the dishes in your home kitchen isn’t fun, just try doing them in the middle of a forest with no running water! You definitely want to look for unfussy cookware that will clean up easily. If clean up requires a great deal of maintenance, additional equipment or excessive scrubbing, it might not be the best cookware to take on your next camping trip.

✔️ Handles: Cooking in the great outdoors is certainly an art, so you want a set of pots and pans that feels good in your hand. Some cookware sets offer foldable silicone handles that stay cool to the touch while cooking, whereas some sets have metal attachments that you can hook onto the edge of the pan. Some offer no handles at all. If your pans become hot while they’re cooking, you might need to bring some protective heat wear in your gear, or just embrace the figure-it-out mentality of camping and use a T-shirt.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Nicole Papantoniou is the director of the Good Housekeeping Institute Kitchen Appliances and Culinary Innovation Lab, where she has overseen content and testing related to kitchen and cooking appliances, tools and gear since 2019. She’s an experienced product tester and recipe creator, trained in classic culinary arts and culinary nutrition.

Sarah Tane tested camping cookware and wrote this story. She is private chef and recipe developer. She's also written for many food magazines and is a graduate of the Institute of Culinary Education.

Sara Tane is a food writer and private chef based in Brooklyn, New York. She is a graduate of the Institute of Culinary Education and has written for Cooking Light, MyRecipes, Saveur, and The Feedfeed. She also has a serious thing for oysters.

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Review: Presto Nomad

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In 2005, my friend Mike bought an old and unreliable Infiniti G20 sedan in England for the equivalent of $750, did some emergency repairs, then drove it across Europe and down to Senegal. That was a long time ago, and now that I think of it, I wonder if he ever showered on that trip. But he recently took one look at the slow cooker I was reviewing and immediately wished out loud that he'd had it with him.

"We had a plug in the back," he said, reminiscing about cooking eggs on the radiator and eating uncooked ramen noodle packs. "This would have been perfect."

Mike and I were marinara-making, getting ready to enjoy the kind of deep-flavored food you can make simply by letting something cook quietly over the course of the day. The appliance we used worked like an old-school slow cooker, but it looked like none I'd ever seen.

The Presto Nomad is a short, squat machine that looks more like an Igloo Playmate cooler than a Crock-Pot. With a low, rectangular body, a large carry handle that swings up over the top, and eye-catching colors, it's like they told a chef and a children's toy designer who'd never heard of a slow cooker to invent one, adding one stipulation: that it be made to travel.

Slow cookers have struggled a bit trying to compete with the growing popularity of electric pressure cookers, many of which can also slow cook, albeit not always as well. Yet slow cookers' convenience is undeniable: throw a few ingredients in a pot in the morning and return home to something with deep flavor that beats the pants off of most stuff you could blitz through after work.

In terms of cooking functionality, the Nomad is barely different from the slow cooker you grew up with. It has "warm," "low," and "high" settings on its dial. Its "crock" is a nonstick aluminum "cooking pot" that is heated with an element that runs around its sidewall.

The big difference is in the design of the thing, especially that low, cooler-like body, a large, flat lid with a glass window, and the huge handle that clamps the lid shut. It's peculiarly interesting to see new life and whimsical thinking thrown into a staid genre by a company that isn't known for innovation.

Like the Balmuda toaster , the fun, two-tone design of the Nomad makes your countertop a happier place. My wife Elisabeth took to calling it "the cute little red thing." I think it's going to be the belle of the ball come tailgating season.

When you want to hit the road with the Nomad, flip up that handle to lock the lid in place, tuck the power cord back into its slot, and it's ready to roll. Stick it in the trunk or take it for a walk—then compare it to that old one in your pantry with its rattling lid and the way you have to hold it between someone's feet so the lid doesn't fall off in the car on the way to Uncle Charlie's house. Yes, some newer slow cookers have clips to hold their lids in place, but the Nomad's low center of gravity and one-handed ease make it much better suited to travel. As one Amazon reviewer put it, the Nomad is "the only way to eat ten sloppy joes in your car." My friend Mike would approve.

None of that would make any difference if it struggled in the kitchen, but in my testing it didn't. Along with that marinara, I braised chicken thighs in kimchi, had fantastic mac and cheese for lunch several days in a row, and made a lovely Spanish tortilla. Every recipe I cooked finished in the recipe's estimated cooking time. No dishes required special treatment. In fact, for most reviews, I take pages and pages of cooking notes, but I barely took any on the Nomad because it worked exactly like it should. I came to think of it like a new kid on the block who behaved like a grown-up.

One thing I learned during this testing is how the heat settings on slow cookers work, and I turned to an expert to help me figure it out.

"On the high setting, more energy is produced to heat the food both faster and to a slightly higher temperature than on the low setting," explained Caitlin Huth, a nutrition and wellness educator at the University of Illinois Extension in Decatur. Huth explained that "low" and "high" settings are misnomers that might be better labeled "slow" and "a little faster."

Really, if you think of the temperature just below boiling as a destination that both of them are heading toward, on most machines high just gets there faster than low. In the Nomad, it took just over five hours on low to bring four quarts of room temperature water up to about 200 degrees Fahrenheit, while the high setting took only 3.75 hours.

(Also, this isn't a knock against slow cookers, but more of a PSA: during low-temperature cooking and while you're transporting your meal, keep food safety in mind and avoid lingering in the danger zone between 40 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.)

Along with its portability, the Nomad features bells and whistles like a detachable spoon rest and a tiny dry-erase board and marker next to the dial so you can write "TUNA NOODLE CASSEROLE!!!" on the front and everyone will instantly know what goodness lurks beneath the potato chip crust.

The Nomad has some deficiencies, most notably that the height of the cooking pot makes slow-cooking a whole chicken or ribs—which are doable in a taller 6-quart oval crock—challenging or impossible in the 6-quart Presto (4 1/4 inches high) cooking pot, though there's more room (5 3/4 inches) in the 8-quart model . I'd also prefer a glass crock instead of the metal nonstick, but that would make the whole shebang notably heavier and less transportable. For now, there are two models; the 6-quart is white and red, and the 8-quart is white and an odd tan color. I wish the 8-quart had other color options. I also wish there was a little "power" light to indicate that it was on; More than once, I turned the dial to "low" and walked away without having remembered to plug it in.

Really though, you'd get over those faults in a heartbeat the first time you packed it up to go tailgating or just walked it up the hill to the neighbors' place for a potluck.

The Nomad isn't necessarily the best slow cooker out there. It doesn't have the programmability of most modern models. It didn't work noticeably better or worse than others I've used in the past, but since it has the basics down, head-to-head testing isn't the point. What I'm so enamored with is its complete rethink of slow-cooker design. The Nomad is blazing a new trail for slow cookers and I hope the rest of the industry follows.

Food writer Joe Ray ( @joe_diner ) is a Lowell Thomas Travel Journalist of The Year, a restaurant critic, and author of " Sea and Smoke " with chef Blaine Wetzel.

8 Best Electric Travel Cooker in 2023

Cooking meals during travel is interesting.

It can be problematic too especially when you don’t have the right cooker with you.

Electric travel cookers were introduced to the market to solve your cooking problems when you go outside. So, having one of them is a must when you don’t want to ruin your diet eating outside!

An electric rice cooker is a handy tool for camping and traveling to make your outdoor adventures much hassle-free. This article will show you some of the best electric travel cookers that can take your cooking experience to the next level.

Keep reading to find out your suitable one before you sail for your next trip.

Table of Contents

Importance of an Electric Travel Cooker

Electric cookers were made targeting travelers who look for an easy cooking solution.

One of the first things that will come to your mind before traveling is what you would eat during an outing. It becomes the primary thinking when you travel or camping for multiple days.

You don’t have the luxury to enjoy ready-made food all the time when you are on an outing for a longer period. Cooking is the only option you are left with at that time.

A mini electric rice cooker for traveling can spare you from this problem. Offering multiple functions and easy operation, it can prepare your food and snacks in no time. Most of them come with a compact design. You can easily carry them anywhere.

Also Read: A list of My Favorite Dishwasher Safe Travel Mug for Coffee.

Top 8 Best Electric Cooker for Travelling

Some of the best electric cookers for traveling are listed here. Have a look-

1. DCIGNA 1.2L Mini Travel Rice Cooker & Electric Lunch Box

DCIGNA comes with this mini rice cooker for traveling that provides multiple functions like cooking food, rice, stews, soup, etc. Cooking oatmeal and grains are also super easy with this electric lunch box. Taking such an item on your next travel can reduce the hardship of cooking meals outside.

Material and Design

The item dimension is 6.8 x 6.8 x 7. 9 inches. Available in white and pink color, it is stylish and beautiful. It contains a dishwasher-safe steam pan and pot. Due to the lid liner, cleaning this cooker is pretty simple. It also has a measuring cup for rice and rice paddle.

The compact design makes it suitable to carry inside your travel bag easily. The handle enables it to hold the cooker comfortably and take it with you. The cooking time is less than 30 minutes, making it more convenient for quickly preparing your meal. You can also cook soup, grains, and stews with this multi-functional rice cooker.

Compatibility

The running mechanism of this rice cooker is simple. All you have to do is just place the ingredients inside the bowl and turn the switch on. It will automatically cook the rice and grains quickly. You would have lots of time to prepare other food items.

It weighs only 2.65 pounds thereby, carrying it is easier almost anywhere. You don’t have to worry about boiling water. Setting the timer by temperature adjustment will do the work and move to warm automatically once the cooking is over. This one-touch mechanism makes it beneficial to cook everything with it.

Things I Appreciate

• Beautiful design
• Easy running mechanism
• Automatic function
• Lightweight
• Multiple functions
• No shut off button.

2. WHITE TIGER Portable Travel Small 1.0L Mini Rice Cooker

White Tiger brand launched this product in April 2019. Since then, it has gained wide-scale popularity especially, among travelers around the world. Providing many unique features, this is becoming a handy travel gear for outdoor enthusiasts. Providing durability and quality, this could be your go-to-go portable cooker for traveling.

Premium aluminum makes this white-colored mini rice cooker durable, sturdy, and long-lasting. It takes only 15 minutes to cook. The cooking capacity is one liter and suitable for one to two persons. If you are having a busy working day or going out with your spouse, this cooker may save a lot of your valuable time.

It runs with 110 Volt and is easy to use in many places. The package comes with many things like a rice scoop, a measuring cup, a non-stick pan liner, and a manual. The item dimension is 6.5 x 6.3 x 8.1 inches and it weighs only 2.55 pounds. So, it is super easy to carry.

It will make your cooking process very easy with its simple mechanism. You can cook multiple items in it including soup, oatmeal, stews, or any dessert. Coming with a warm function and light indicator to save your food from overheating and overcooking.

It also contains a part of heat dissipation at the bottom to protect it from getting an excessive temperature. This feature gives this product a longer lifespan. Due to the non-stick coating inside, cleaning this cooker is pretty easy.

• Gorgeous color
• Auto warm function
• Quick-cooking
• Simple mechanism
• Non-sticky coating
• Leaks and spills out of the vent holes sometimes.

3. TopWit Electric Hot Pot Mini Electric Kettle

Thanks to the TopWit store for producing this beautiful electric kettle. It contains multiple functions for cooking items like soup, noodles, eggs, and stew. Having unique design and durability, this is a popular mini-multi cooker for travelers.

This cooker is perfect for steaming, boiling water, cooking snacks like noodles, pasta, eggs, and boiling soups. This characteristic makes it a practical and multi-functional cooking hot pot. You can use it inside your house as well as for traveling, camping, or outdoor adventure.

This hot pot has a dimension of 5.8 x 5.2 x 8.8 inches and a capacity of 1.2-liters. Coming with a dual power supply, it is suitable for both 200 Watt and 600 Watt. You can adjust according to your wish.

Weighing only 2.42 pounds, you can easily carry it around anywhere. The interior surface contains premium stainless steel. The exterior is smooth with a glass cover. Having a double-coated design, you can touch it with your hand without any fear of burning.

It contains a separate structure design so that you can put the pot in any direction at your convenience. The cleaning process is also easy due to this feature. It comes with 360 degrees rotation capacity, thereby wrapping the power cord is simple. The overheat and boil-dry protection will make sure that you cook safely and the hot pot also remains durable.

• Good Capacity
• Versatile and practical
• Smooth exterior
• 360-degree rotation
• No auto shut-off feature.

4. Dezin 1.5L Mini Electric Hot Pot for Steak & Rapid Noodles Cooker

Dezin comes with this stylish and splendid electric hot pot that will take your traveling experience to the next level. This multi-functional electric hot pot will help you cook several items. Requiring less voltage, you can use this almost anywhere. People, especially travelers love this model very much due to its high capacity and usability.

The whole product is environmentally friendly. Like other previous models, it also contains boil, dry and overheating protection. It works with 110 volts with a capacity of 1.5 liters. Seafoam green color will give a stylish look.

You will get a spatula and egg reck in addition to the package. You can prepare chicken steak, noodles, and eggs apart from rice with this hot pot. This material is popular, especially for health-conscious people. The non-sticky surface material will help you achieve that by consuming less oil.

Made with non-stick material, this electric hot pot keeps your food clean. You can cook it without a stove, especially on an outing. It will make cooking safe and toxin-free, no matter how high the setting is. It comes with two dual power adjustments, 150 Watt and 600 Watt. You can adjust according to your convenience. 600 Watt is the maximum heating capacity for cooking food faster.

The compact design enables it to store anywhere easily. The capacity is suitable for one or two persons. Cleaning it after cooking is also super easy. If you want to go on a trip or a picnic with your family, friend or spouse, this is a suitable choice for you. The stylish design also enables it to pick it as a gift material for any occasion. Weighing 2.88 pounds, it is lightweight and you can carry it easily anywhere.

• Environmentally friendly
• Good capacity
• Non-sticky surface
• The pot is not stable.

5. TopWit 1.2 Liter Electric Hot Pot Mini Noodles Cooker

This model is another amazing product from the TopWit store. TopWit products are known for their unique design. This one is also not the exception. It comes with a gorgeous black color, high capacity, and durability. It has gained wide-scale popularity among customers from different parts of the world. Being a highly rated product on this list, it will provide much safety, flexibility, along with boil-dry protection.

Premium stainless steel makes this black-colored electric cooker look unique to attract people. It has a capacity of 1.2 liters with 600 Watts. It also comes with a dual power capacity with the lowest of 200 Watt. You can adjust according to your convenience.

It has a 360-degree rotating base. You can wrap the power cord accordingly. It ensures high safety while you are cooking your meal. Offering boil-dry and overheating protection, it ensures durability and safety. The product dimension is 5.8 x 5.2 x 8.8 inches. Due to the compact design, it is easily portable anywhere as per your suitability.

This cooker has multiple using options like steaming, cooking noodles, pasta, boiling water, soups, and much more. You can use it as a kitchen material for daily cooking and also use it while traveling, camping, or any outdoor adventure.

The exterior is soft, smooth and the interior has food-grade material with a glass cover. The wall is double layered. The handle ensures that you can hold it without the fear of burning your hands. Due to the detachable design, you can place the pot easily in any direction as per your suitability. This mechanism makes the cleaning procedure easy too.

• Premium material
• Dual power capacity
• Safe and smooth running
• Multiple cooking options
• Detachable design
• The cord is short.

6. Joyfulsky 1.5L 304 Stainless Steel Electric Hot Pot with Steamer

This travel-friendly electric hot pot is another unique model from the Joyfulski brand. They first bought it in February 2019. Since then, it gained credibility among the users. Being easily portable, this could be the perfect portable cooker for traveling that you are searching for.

Premium stainless steel made this blue-colored mini cooker a durable and long-lasting one. Coming with a dimension of 9.25 x 7.09 x 9.84 inches, the overall item weighs 4.14 pounds. Carrying it anywhere is super easy. You can take it during your journey or any outdoor adventure.

It works with 110 voltage and 600 Watts. The 304 stainless steel body makes it a perfect choice if you want a durable product. It is healthy, environmentally friendly, and comes with anti-corrosion material. You can separate the body from its base when needed. Due to this making, the cleaning process is also easy.

The automatic operation mode enables it to run everything smoothly. Like other models, it also has a dual power capacity, 600 Watts for boiling and 200 Watts for keeping warm. You can use any settings at your convenience. The limited power capacity will ensure that the power-off function works properly.

The outside body with the handles is comfortable PP material. It protects from any burning threat and overheating. The power will go off automatically if no water is there in the boiling time to ensure protection and durability.

This product comes with multiple cooking options like noodles, soup, meatballs, oatmeal, eggs, etc. Cleaning it is also easy with vinegar and water mixing with a soft piece of cloth.

• Durable and long-lasting
• Anti-corrosion material
• Environmentally friendly 
• Power off function
• Easy cleaning
• A spot may appear at the bottom after using.

7. TLOG 1.2L Portable Mini Rice Cooker & Small Food Steamer

If you are looking for a stylish travel rice cooker, then this is the perfect choice for you. Coming with a simple design and excellent color combination, it will give a new look to your travel gear collection. It offers you to cook multiple items and spare you from the hassles of cooking during traveling.

This unique green-designed mini–rice cooker is made with pure aluminum, making it a durable product, with a capacity of 1.2 liters. You can use this as your home kitchen material, in the office, for camping, or any outdoor adventure. This model is suitable for a small family and ensures the required amount of food you need.

The dimensions of the cooker are 8 x 7 x 9 inches. The package comes with a nonstick pot, a rice measuring cup, spoon, tray, and power cord. And the power cord is removable here for your convenience. This cooker is free of other harmful materials like lead, cadmium PFOA, and is also environmentally friendly. If you are looking for a BPA-free, food-grade  small-size rice cooker , then this is the go-to go item for you.

The using mechanism is also simple with single button control. It also has some amazing features like LED indicator light, half a day delay timer, and an automatic switch to keep your food warm for 10 hours. These facilities make it a preferable choice. The compact size makes it easier to hold it comfortably. It does not take extra space.

You can carry it anywhere around easily. Even if you have a small kitchen, it will not take much space. You will have options to keep other items. The inner side is a non-stick material coating that enables you to clean it comfortably. You will have two separate cup capacities that can increase up to four.

You can cook rice, pasta, soup, oatmeal, grains, and vegetables at the same time. The weight is only two pounds, carrying it is very easy.

• Nonstick pot
• Delay timer
• Automatic switch
• Compact size
• Dual cup capacity
• Short AC cable.

8. Topwit Electric Hot Pot Mini Multifunctional Electric Cooker

This model is another excellent item from the TopWit store. I could not end my list without mentioning this item. Since its launch in June 2020, it has become popular and gained many positive reviews from consumers. Offering multiple cooking item opportunities, this could be your great travel gear. Being well designed and stylish, you will find a lot of flexibility and options to cook.

The dimension is 8.74 x 8.19 x 7.56 inches. This model has a double power setting of 200 Watt and 600 Watt. You can use it conveniently as per the one you need. You can use 200 Watt for making soup, oatmeal, and eggs. Cooking noodles and pasta will require you to switch the power to 600 Watt. In this setting, water will boil faster and it has a capacity of 1.6 liters.

The interior is 304 food-grade stainless steel with a thick glass cover. This setting will protect your food from contamination. The exterior has a double-wall design. You can hold it with your hand without the fear of burning. This stylish mini-size cooker is easy to store due to its compact design.

If you are searching for replacing your common kitchen gadget with a more portable one, you can go for this model. It will perfectly suit any occasion and make your lunch quickly. During traveling and camping, taking such an item will give you a lot of pleasure by cooking your meal easily.

You can also make it as a gift material to your near and dear ones. It contains overheat and boil-dry protection. Plus, it has an automatic off function, and when the temperature goes beyond the level or the water finishes. The weight being 2.51 pounds, it is easy to use and thus portable enough.

• High capacity
• Dual power setting
• Take less space
• Overheat protection
• Short power cord.

Things to Know Before Buying an Electric Cooker

Following things are important to check before buying an electric travel cooker:

Building material is crucial to ensure the durability of the product. Cookers made with stainless steel are usually safe to use and long-lasting at the same time.

Check whether the handle can resist heat and provide a safe grip or not. This will prevent your hand from burning and ensure due safety while cooking.

Warm Function

The automatic warm function is a necessary feature of such a cooker. It will keep your food especially rice warm for several hours offering fluffy rice.

Not all electric cooker is travel-friendly if it is heavy. You need to choose the one that is portable and lightweight. Otherwise, it will be a hassle carrying it from one place to another.

FAQs about Electric Travel Cooker

No specific requirement is there, but ¼ cup should be the least amount. ½ cup is preferable.

Many of the cookers do. But my preferences don’t leak water onto the counter during cooking.

Yes, they have. You need to place the hot pot on the heating base for cooking.

They are unlikely to get rusted due to the high-quality stainless-steel cover.

I tried to enlighten you about some of the best electric travel cookers that can bring significant comfort to your cooking experience. Choose the one suitable for your requirements and make easy and smooth cooking on your next outdoor adventure trip.

You May Also Like:

How to Pick A Perfect Coffee Maker for Travel Mugs from Keurig Brand.

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Best Backpacking Cookware of 2024

One of life’s greatest enjoyments is to kick back after a hard day on the trail and fire up some delicious food. Considered to be one of the most essential pieces of gear to own, your investment in having one of the best backpacking cookware sets will go a long way in providing creature comforts on the rugged trail.

There aren’t too many details that you’ll have to sweat over, making this purchase a relatively straightforward one. But with literally hundreds of options to choose from, we’ve narrowed it down to the top 10 best backpacking cookware sets to make your choice as simple as possible.

For more of our top backpacking gear recommendations, check out the Best Backpacking Stoves . 

Quick Answer - The Best Backpacking Cookware

• GSI Outdoors Pinnacle Camper View at REI
• MSR Ceramic 2-Pot Set View at Backcountry
• TOAKS Titanium 750ml View at REI
• Primus PrimeTech 2.3 L Pot System View at Backcountry
• Stanley Adventure Base Camp Set View at REI
• MSR Quick 2 System View at REI
• Snow Peak Titanium Multi Compact View at REI
• Snow Peak Titanium Mini Solo View at REI
• GSI Outdoors Halulite Microdualist II View at REI
• Toaks Titanium 1600ml Pot With Pan View at REI

Comparison Table - Best Backpacking Cookware

Reviews - the best cookware for backpacking, gsi outdoors pinnacle camper.

• Best Use : Family/Group Backpacking
• Weight : 3 lbs. 10 oz.
• Cookware Material : Aluminum
• Nonstick Surface : Yes
• Pot Gripper Attaches Externally To Avoid Internal Scratches
• Nonstick Surface Is Scratch Resistant And Heats Food Evenly
• Color Coded Dinnerware Helps Each Person Keep Track Of What’s Theirs

BEST COOKSET OVERALL

Looking for a fully loaded cookset that has pots, pans, plates, and cups galore? Then the GSI Pinnacle Camper Cookset is your perfect match for a truly cushy camping experience. 

This cookset features 2 pots (3 Liters & 2 Liters) each with their own lid that has a built-in strainer for pasta, a frying pan, 4 plates, 4 bowls, 4 insulated mugs with sippable lids, and an external pot gripper that won’t scratch the interior of your pots. The dinnerware is color coded so that no one mixes up whose is whose.  The set also features a welded sink basin that doubles as a carry bag.

MSR Ceramic 2-Pot Set

• Best Use : Budget Backpacking
• Weight : 1 lb
• Two lightweight pots for easy cooking while backpacking
• Lightweight aluminum construction
• Strainer lid and handle accommodate differently sized pots

BEST FOR: BACKPACKERS ON A BUDGET

MSR designed this 2-pot system from environmentally AND health-friendly ceramic materials. The system includes two pots and a pair of plier-like potholders designed to nest together and take up the least amount of space possible. The non-stick ceramic coating is also scratch resistant, which is a nice feature if you enjoy using metal utensils.

What we like most about this cookware system is that it can be used for simply boiling water and also serves to cook meals more evenly than most other options on the market. You’d be hard pressed to burn even the stickiest of foods.

TOAKS Titanium 750ml

• Best Use : Ultralight Backpacking
• Weight : 3.9 oz
• Cookware Material : Titanium
• Nonstick Surface : No
• Corrosion resistant, pure titanium construction
• Ounce and millimeter marks enable precise measurements
• Lid with lockable grip & vent holes
• Includes mesh storage sack

BEST FOR: ULTRALIGHT BACKPACKING

From solo overnight missions to extended multi-day adventures, this pot does it all. At 750mL, there’s plenty of space for boiling water — no matter what you plan on rehydrating. This extremely durable pot is a great choice for an ultralight pot that still gets the job done. It features folding handles and a lid with a wire tab that makes it easy to check on your food or water. The seal formed by the tight-fitting lid also creates for unmatched heat retention.

What we love most about this pot — besides its feather light weight — is that it’s compact enough for stashing into your backpack’s side pocket AND big enough that you can stash a 4oz fuel canister inside.

Primus PrimeTech 2.3 L Pot System

• Best Use : Backcountry chefs
• Weight : 1.6 lbs
• Cookware Material : Aluminum, ceramic
• Quick cooking and low fuel demand
• Self-locking ceramic tongs
• Top lid turns into strainer

BEST FOR: BACKCOUNTRY CHEFS

If you’re looking for something simple, hearty, and built to last, this 2.3L Pot System is sure to fit the bill. This all in one system not only allows you to whip a delicious meal, but also save loads of fuel thanks to its highly efficient design. The set includes two pots, a lid, a handle, non-stick coating, and heat exchanger rings. The accessory pot nestles perfectly inside the main pot — and everything fits nicely in the included insulated carry bag.

What I covet most about this cookware set is just how efficient it really is — in part due to the inclusion of heat exchanger rings. The main pot’s thick aluminum bottom and Teflon coating makes cooking scrambled eggs — which notoriously tend to overcook on most cookware sets I’ve tested — a delicious-tasting backcountry possibility.

Stanley Adventure Base Camp Set

• Best Use : Basecamp Cooking
• Weight : 5 lbs. 9.6 oz.
• Cookware Material : Stainless Steel
• Stainless steel pot and frying pan
• Four 6-inch plates & four bowls
• Four sporks, Spatula, Serving spoon
• Cutting board
• Drying rack

BEST FOR: BASECAMP COOKING

If you’re looking for a full-kitchen experience in a camp-friendly package, look no further. The Stanley Adventure Base Camp cookware set includes a stainless steel pot and frying pan, four 6-inch plates, four bowls, four sporks, a cutting board, spatula, serving spoon, and drying rack. It’s essentially designed to match the performance and design of your kitchen at home.

What we like most about this cookware set is the intuitive vented lid design and how affordable it is for such a comprehensive kit.

MSR Quick 2 System

• Best Use : Backpacking
• Weight : 1 lbs. 12 oz.
• Cookware Material : Hard-Anodized Aluminum
• Color Coded Plates/Mugs Prevent Mixups
• Entire Set Nests Within 2.5L Pot For Efficient Packing
• Pieces Can Be Left At Home To Create An Even Lighter Set

BEST FOR: COMPACT COOKING FOR 2

Perfect for any backpacking duo, the MSR Quick 2 System is a light and versatile cookset that covers all your bases and can be stripped down to the essentials for an even lighter load. 

Boasting two of (almost) everything for a complete meal set for each backpacker, this cookset features 2 insulated mugs with lids, 2 “DeepDish” plates (for either soup or solid food – it’s essentially a bowl-plate), and 2 pots (1.5 Liter & 2.5 Liter). It also sports a lid with a built-in strainer and a detachable pot lifter that won’t scratch the interior. 

This set can also be stripped down for a single backpacker or if both you and your partner already have water bottles, you can remove the cups to create room inside the pot to store your stove!

Snow Peak Titanium Multi Compact

• Weight : 11.6 oz.
• Extremely Lightweight And Durable
• Handles Pack Flat For Easy Storage
• Includes A Lightweight Nylon Mesh Storage Bag

BEST FOR: HIGH-QUALITY, MINIMAL DESIGN FOR SMALL GROUPS

Small backpacking groups of 2-3 people looking to invest in the most durable and longest lasting cookware set ought to consider the Snow Peak Titanium Multi Compact cookset. Sporting the lightest, most durable, and longest lasting material (Titanium), you’ll get the absolute best bang for your buck. 

The set features 2 pots (34 oz. & 26 oz.), a 17 oz. frying pan, and a 12 oz. saucepan, the latter two which can double as lids for the pots. The handles on each pot and pan fold down for easy storage and all four pieces nest within each other for the most efficient use of space and can also store a 100/110g fuel canister inside (sold seperately).

Snow Peak Titanium Mini Solo

• Weight : 6.38 oz.
• 100g Fuel Canisters Can Fit Inside The 30 oz. Pot
• Pot Nests Snuggly Inside The Cup For Compact Storage
• Rounded Bottom Edges Are Easy To Clean And Improve Heating Efficiency

BEST FOR: ULTRALIGHT SOLO BACKPACKERS

The lightest of the lightest available cooksets, the Snow Peak Titanium Mini Solo cookset is streamlined and efficient for your most rugged outdoor adventures. 

Made from Titanium, the lightest and most durable material for a cookset, the Mini Solo resists corrosion and heats food evenly. It’s also extremely efficient meaning you’ll use less fuel for each cook. The taller 30 oz pot fits snugly inside the shorter 18.3 oz. cup thanks to a slight difference in circumference size, allowing you to nest the two pieces for the ultimate packdown. 

The lid for the pot also has a silicone tab for burn-free removal! No need to cover your hand first.

GSI Outdoors Halulite Microdualist II

• Weight : 1 lbs. 7 oz.
• Hard-Anodized Aluminum Heats Food Evenly
• Welded Stuff Sack Protects Cookware And Doubles As Wash Basin
• Pot Lid Is Crushproof And Heat Resistant, Also Includes Built-In Strainer

BEST FOR: TWO-PERSON OUTINGS

Having a complete cookset for two doesn’t have to be bulky, heavy and expensive. The GSI Outdoors Halulite Microdualist II shatters all of those conventions in favor of a streamlined, lightweight, affordable cookset that sports all the features of a fully-loaded set. 

Nesting all of its pieces within a 1.4L pot, this cookset features two 14 oz. bowls, two 14 oz. mugs with sippable lids, two folding foons (fork-spoons), and a lid for your pot with a built-in strainer. 

The folding foons collapse to just 3.7” inches from it’s fully extended 6.1” inch length, making it small enough to fit inside the nesting system.

Toaks Titanium 1600ml Pot With Pan

• Weight : 8.2 oz.
• Includes A Mesh Storage Sack
• No Metallic Aftertaste With Titanium
• Ounce And Liter Marks Allow For Precise Measurement

BEST FOR: EXPANDING YOUR EXISTING MINIMAL SET

If you have a minimalist solo set or an ultralight cookware set for two, then the TOAKS Titanium 1600ml Pot with Pan is a perfect addition to expand your set. Able to hold 1.6 Liters (1600ml), this sizeable pot is still super lightweight and has a lid that doubles as a fry pan (or vise versa). 

The entire set weighs just 8.2 oz., making this expansion set the best ultralight add-on. It’s also large enough to store a 220g fuel canister and small stove inside itself. The handles even feature a nifty fold-down mechanism for compact storage.

THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING BACKPACKING COOKSETS

There are a wide variety of materials that cooksets are offered in. Below, we detail the pros and cons of each and rate them for backpacking and car camping. 

• Backpacking: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭒
• Car Camping: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭒

Lightweight and affordable, aluminum is a fantastic material for a cookset. Food is cooked evenly and efficiently on aluminum cookware since it’s such a great conductor of heat. While it’s pretty durable, over time it will eventually break down and need replacing, especially if you cook highly acidic foods such as tomato sauce. Aluminum is also softer than other metals, meaning it will get banged up, taking both scratches and dents with heavy use. 

Hard-Anodized Aluminum  

• Backpacking: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑
• Car Camping: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑

A more durable, albeit pricer, option to aluminum is hard-anodized aluminum. It provides all the benefits of standard aluminum without any of the downsides – just cook away! 

Stainless Steel

• Backpacking: ⭑⭒⭒⭒⭒
• Car Camping: ⭑⭑⭒⭒⭒

While it is an option, stainless steel offers little benefit to backpackers and campers. Although it’s way more durable than aluminum, it’s also much more expensive yet doesn’t heat food as evenly. It’s also really heavy which can be quite the drawback when you’re trying to save weight. For the high price tag, you’re better off investing in titanium or hard-anodized aluminum. 

If you’re not constrained by a budget, this is your absolute best option! Titanium is the lightest material possible which makes it ideal for backpackers looking to shave weight. While it is more expensive than some other options, it’s extremely efficient which translates into fuel cost savings. Last but not least, titanium is highly corrosion-resistant meaning it will outlast and outperform any other cookset material. 

Non-Stick Coating

• Backpacking: ⭑⭑⭒⭒⭒
• Car Camping: ⭑⭑⭑⭒⭒

Non-stick coatings are really easy to clean, making your post-meal chores a breeze. However, the coating is much less durable than aluminum or titanium. It’s important to use only plastic utensils while cooking with non-stick or you will likely scratch and degrade the non-stick surface. 

• Backpacking: ⭒⭒⭒⭒⭒

Best for car camping, cast iron skillets hold seasoning really well and make some amazingly delicious campfire dinners. They’re crazy durable but also extremely heavy, which makes them a no-go for backpacking. 

ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS

Number of pots/pans.

When choosing a cookware set , it’s best to consider how many people you usually backpack or camp with. A rough estimate is 1 pot for every 1 to 2 people in your group, but that largely depends on what you’re cooking. 

For dehydrated meals that simply need boiled water to be added, or can-ready meals that need warming like chili, then 1 pot per 2 backpackers will be enough. But if you’re cooking a more standard meal from scratch with multiple ingredients, then each backpacker will likely need a dedicated pot/pan. 

The size of your chosen pots and pans also plays a critical role in determining the best cookware set. Larger pots are more efficient for space and resources since you won’t need as many burners as you would with multiple smaller pots. Ideally, the largest pot in your set should hold 1 pint per person in your group. So if you’re a hiking group of 4 people, then you’ll need a pot than can hold at least 4 pints, if not a little more. 

Lids and Handles

While completely optional, and usually ditched by ultralight enthusiasts, lids can help food cook faster and achieve results such as melting cheese atop a burger pattie. Some cookware sets are super efficient, and double their pans as lids.

Handles are also really important to consider. Many sets offer collapsible handles to help save space in your pack while other sets completely ditch them in favor of a single pot lifter/gripper than can be used for multiple pots/pans. This can help save weight for ounce-conscious hikers.  

OPTIONAL GADGETS

Those who can’t bear to go a morning without coffee may want to invest in a french press. You can find compact and durable ones made specifically for backpacking! Coffee while camping may seem like a luxury to some, but it’s a necessity for many! Car campers may enjoy a dutch oven as it increases your dinner options and makes large meals easy to cook.

FEATURES EXPLAINED

Bisphenol A – a chemical used to make polycarbonate plastics that is not food safe. When choosing plastic containers for food and water, make sure they’re BPA-free. 

Many of the pots and pans on the list above are measured in liters, which is roughly 4 cups of water. 

A style of backpacking that focuses on reducing unnecessary weight to make travel lighter. Many ultralight backpackers obsess over ounces and have been known to snap toothbrushes in half and shave them down to create the most minimalist design possible. Their theory is that each ounce saved ends up equalling pounds, and each pound saved over a mile is less energy spent.  

For more of our top hiking & backpacking gear recommendations, check out these popular buyer's guides:

Best Hiking Backpacks

Best Backpacking Tents

Best Backpacking Sleeping Bags

Best Backpacking Sleeping Pads

Best Backpacking Stoves

Best Hiking Boots For Men ( and Women )

Best Hiking Shoes For Men ( and Women )

2 Responses

Wow, Great post. I’m enjoying reading this article. These are looking cool cookware sets, I like to try MSR Quick 2 System cookware sets. BTW Thanks for sharing this valuable information.

Thanks for mentioning that aluminum is affordable for camping cookware. You also said that it is very lightweight. I think it’s a good idea to choose camping cooking supplies that are compact for travel.

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• Hiking & Camping

The 13 Best Portable Travel Coffee Makers [2023]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

774 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

32 Published Articles 3114 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 45 U.S. States Visited: 28

Why Buy a Portable Coffee Maker?

The different types of coffee makers, things to consider with a travel coffee maker, 1. big tasting coffee from a tiny device, 2. a travel mug for coffee enthusiasts, 3. perfect espresso wherever you go, 4. easy expresso at the push of a button, 1. affordable, portable, pour-over coffee maker, 2. a quirky little gadget that delivers great coffee, 3. an all-in-one brew method for great coffee on the go, 4. a durable coffee maker for every kind of adventure, 1. share great coffee with your significant other, 2. big-brand beverages from bodum, 3. a beautiful italian standard both at home and away, 4. single-serve packs with flavor, 5. unique coffee brewing from a world leader, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Whether you are looking for something to perk up your morning commute or want to sip a hot cup of joe on a mountain top in the middle of nowhere, a portable coffee maker is an absolute game-changer.

From single cup heaters to coffee makers you can share with friends, a portable coffee maker is a travel must-have for those who never want to miss a coffee fix, wherever they are headed.

Sure, you could nip into the nearest Starbucks (or other coffee shops available) and grab a paper cup on the go. But being able to brew your favorite hot beverage is far more satisfying and much more cost-effective.

Portable coffee makers are, among other things:

An automatic coffee maker can brew up a cup at the touch of a button. Your morning cup can be just as tasty as it is at home, even on the road.

Fancy lattes and other brews can be expensive. Nice for the occasional treat, but buying 1 every day can soon add up. Making your own will save you money from the get-go.

Compact, discreet, and easy to take with you, a portable coffee maker can fit in your carry-on bag and be produced for a brew whenever you need it.

Blendable To Suit Your Tastes

Once you get used to using your coffee maker, you will soon be brewing like a barista as you mix blends and flavors to create your perfect cup.

Because not all coffee makers are the same, they offer varying ways to brew your coffee on the go.

The most common types of coffee makers include:

Pour-over Coffee Makers

Possibly the best option for longer journeys, pour-over coffee makers are compact and light as a feather. Carry just a few grams of your favorite blend and voilà — a perfect coffee on the go. The only downside to these types of coffee makers is that you may have to wait a few minutes for your brew.

French Press

French press coffee makers work by immersing all of the coffee in hot water to capture more of its natural flavor, resulting in a rich, strong cup of coffee. While the coffee may be better, the cleaning processes take longer, and some French press coffee makers are more portable than others.

Espresso Makers

If you like your coffee dark, a portable espresso maker will give you big flavors on the go. As the machine applies pressure to the beans, the maximum flavor and oils spill out, giving the same result as bigger coffee machines, but in a compact and completely portable format. These models are the most expensive but will be a big hit with true coffee connoisseurs.

Hot Tip: Check out our favorite travel mugs to go with your travel coffee maker.

When choosing your perfect portable coffee maker, consider the following:

Portability

One of the most important features of a portable coffee maker is that it needs to be “portable” — the clue is in the title. Some types of coffee makers are far larger and bulkier than others, so look for one that suits your needs.

Whichever type of coffee maker you favor, it needs to be easy to carry and not take up too much space. Otherwise, you may as well leave it back at home.

Hot Tip: Look for lightweight materials like silicone, and consider coffee makers that are complete and without the need for lots of other fancy accessories.

Traveling can take its toll on your possessions, and you need to make sure that you buy appliances and devices that will go the distance. Stay clear of delicate glass coffee makers and opt instead for reinforced materials such as plastic, silicone, or even aluminum for guaranteed durability.

Brewing Time

A portable coffee maker is almost pointless if you have to wait half of your journey time for it to brew. Choose appliances that take between 30 seconds to 5 minutes to brew, and you can enjoy speedy coffee on the go.

Ease of Cleaning

Dirty coffee is not good coffee. Consider where you are headed and how easy the coffee maker will be to clean when you get there. If you are hotel-based or have an apartment, you can enjoy the luxuries of a hot tap and maybe even a dishwasher, but if you are camping in the middle of nowhere, you should choose a coffee maker that is easy to clean, with minimal components.

Coffee for 1? 2? Or maybe more than a few? The size of your coffee maker could determine how grumpy your fellow travelers will be in the morning. You can be the chief coffee maker for as many as you want, but remember that the larger the capacity of the appliance, the bigger and bulkier it is likely to be.

Nearly every appliance or device you take with you will eventually need charging or require some form of power to make it work. Your portable coffee maker will be no different, but you need to be sure how you need to power it before you go.

Those that don’t run on elbow grease alone will run on electricity or batteries. To ensure your charging needs match your destination, read the instructions and reviews before you buy.

The 4 Best Espresso Makers for Travel

There are many different types of portable coffee makers out there to choose from, all of which will brew you a great cup of coffee. Here are some of our favorites.

Wacaco Minipresso GR, Portable Espresso Machine

Claiming to be one of the smallest and lightest handheld espresso machines on the market , the Wacaco Minipresso could be everything you need for your next big adventure.

Hand-operated and easy to use, the Minipresso uses a semi-automatic piston to allow small quantities of water to be injected into the coffee adapter. After a few pushes, the optimal extraction pressure is achieved, creating a wealth of rich and bold espresso flavors.

This impressive-looking bullet-shaped coffee maker comes with all the accessories you need to brew up a great single cup of coffee, as well as a travel case to keep it safe on the go. It is one of the more expensive models on this list, but its innovative design, sleek good looks, and impressive espresso-making capabilities make the price tag well worth it.

What We Like

• Produces perfect crema

What We Don’t Like

• Only makes 1 shot of espresso with cleaning required after each shot

Espro Travel Coffee Press, Stainless Steel

Make 10 ounces of great-tasting coffee with this traditional travel mug-style coffee maker. Super easy to use and carry with you, this travel press creates awesome coffee in an instant.

The leak-free mug lets you enjoy your freshly brewed coffee wherever you may be, and the patented double micro-filter keeps your cup free of grit and sludge, allowing you to drink it upright to the last sip.

The insulated double-walled stainless steel construction will keep your brew hot for hours , and the filter press will keep your coffee from getting bitter. Durable build quality makes this an excellent choice for regular travelers, and the BPA, BPS, and phthalate-free mugs will keep your coffee tasting completely authentic.

• Portable press that stays hot for hours
• The plunger is tight to remove to clean
• STARESSO Portable Espresso Machine

This swanky little coffee maker has everything you need to pour a cup of authentic tasting espresso. Measuring just 8 x 6 inches, this is an incredibly portable little device that weighs next to nothing and is super easy to use.

Compatible with both Nespresso pods and ground coffee , all you need is access to hot water to be brewing like a pro. Intuitive and straightforward to use, the patented pumping system means you can make espresso without the use of any electricity, just by using your elbow grease alone. Once you are done, the modular design makes it easy to clean and pack away the coffee maker until your next craving.

Made from high-quality BPA-free material, with a stainless steel pump and coffee chamber, the Staresso is an attractive, sophisticated, and easy-to-use portable espresso maker for serious coffee lovers.

• Makes espresso and froths milk
• The pump can sometimes get stuck
• CONQUECO Portable Coffee Maker

The CONQUECO Portable Coffee Maker is a clever little device that creates expresso at the touch of a button. Compatible with Nespresso and L’OR coffee pods , you simply pop in a pod, fill with water, and press the button.

Automated pressure builds to 15 bars, and depending on whether you used boiling or cool water, it will produce creamy, rich, and flavorsome espresso instantly, or within 8 to 10 minutes.

It’s easy to charge up using the supplied home or car charger cables, and it even has a super convenient auto wash function, so all you need to worry about is cleaning your cup.

Lightweight and incredibly portable in its small carry case, this coffee maker is a firm favorite with serious coffee lovers who are always on the go.

• Easy to use and wash
• Only creates 3 servings per charge

The 4 Best Pour-Over Coffee Makers   for Travel

• Primula Brew Buddy Portable Pour Over

Create perfect coffee on the go with an easy personal brewing system that works in minutes. Unlike some of the larger portable coffee makers here, this little device is portable, slimline, and incredibly easy to take with you , meaning that you can make the perfect cup every time.

All you need is a cup and some hot water to create a perfect single cup of coffee. Simply place the Brew Buddy over your cup, add your coffee, and sit back and brew before enjoying the rich, smooth taste.

Dishwasher safe at home or easy to rinse through on the road, this little gadget also eliminates the need for reusable paper filters, coffee pods, or K-Cups, and there is no excess waste from paper filters or plastic pods — perfect!

• Small, lightweight, and easy-to-use
• The filter bag sits in your cup, reducing the space for a full cup of coffee

Kuissential SlickDrip – Collapsible Silicone Coffee Dripper

This quirky-looking little gadget will give you truly excellent coffee on the go. Negating the need for bulky or expensive coffee machines or filters , you can brew up delicious flavors in minutes.

Made from high-grade silicone, this device is durable and completely portable. Unlike some other cheaper plastic coffee drippers, it will not absorb odors or leave a chemical taste in your brew.

To use the SlickDrip, simply place it over your mug, set the paper filter, add coffee and boiling water, and wait for the flavors to drip on through. Perfect for camping, commuting, at work, or at play, the unique collapsible design of this little coffee dripper makes it easy to clean and more practical to carry than glass or porcelain alternatives.

• Flattens down completely for portability
• Leaking can occur when using a skinnier travel mug

Coffee Gator Paperless Pour Over Coffee Maker

Popular with both baristas and regular coffee fans alike, this pour-over coffee maker gives you much more from your beans. Designed to make up to 10.5 ounces of coffee , this pour-over coffee dripper comes in a 100% BPA-free carafe and offers awesome coffee flavors on the go.

Offering an all-in-one brew method, this little beauty is just right for single-cup perfection. The detachable stainless steel filter adds body to the coffee and is much more eco-friendly and efficient than having to replace paper filters time and time again.

The compact dimensions make this small enough to be carried anywhere with ease, and the Coffee Gator company offers a satisfaction guarantee. Good looks and great brews from this cute-looking, single-cup coffee maker.

• Very easy to clean
• The glass bottom can be easily broken

Cahlis all-in-one Travel Coffee Maker and Thermal Cup

A personal pour-over brewer with a difference, this travel coffee maker features a stainless steel mesh filter to make your coffee taste great on the go.

Drip coffee directly into the cup, and the double-wall stainless steel will trap in the heat for longer while keeping the outside cool to the touch. Perfect for long car rides and trips away, the cup has even been designed to fit nearly all car cup holders for awesome ease of use.

The metal filter sets this coffee maker apart from the competition, as well as being more environmentally friendly and cheaper to maintain. This 1-cup coffee maker uses a manual hand drip method to unlock the flavor of your brew. Measuring in at just 8.34 x 4.1 x 4 inches, this is a great choice for coffee lovers.

• The mug has a non-slip grip area for holding
• The metal filter doesn’t store inside mug when transporting

The 5 Best French Presses for Travel

• AeroPress Coffee and Espresso Maker

Perfect for making 1 to 3 cups of coffee on your travels, the AeroPress promises to offer a fuller flavor brew than a traditional French press portable coffee maker. Complete with a press, funnel, scoop, stirrer, 350 micro-filters, and a filter holder, this impressive press measures in at 9.5 x 4 x 4 inches — just right for taking with you.

The superfast brewing process promises a full-flavored cup of coffee that is free from bitterness or the acids that can be produced by some lesser appliances. The patented micro-filter helps to eliminate grit and makes this coffee maker super easy to clean in seconds.

Create espresso-style coffee on the go with this lightweight, portable, and compact coffee maker that is perfect for camping trips, days out, morning commutes, and so much more.

• Easy to clean after use
• Only makes 1 cup at a time
• Bodum Travel Press

Made by the big brand coffee enthusiasts at Bodum, this travel coffee maker holds up to 15 ounces of coffee and is an impressive little addition to your travel kit . Designed for you to enjoy a single cup of French press coffee, you can guarantee plunger perfection every time and an excellent cup of joe.

Incredibly easy to use by just adding coarsely ground coffee and hot water, stirring the contents, replacing the lid with plunger up, and off you go. The silicone and mesh filter also helps to reduce sediment to produce a smoother brew.

Made from vacuum-sealed stainless steel with a double-wall design, your coffee will stay hot for longer, and the non-skid rubber base’s non-slip grip makes for perfect, spillproof coffee anywhere you go.

• Keep the coffee incredibly hot
• Filter plunger is stored inside the mug at all times

Bialetti 06799 Express Moka Pot

Made from high-quality, polished aluminum in the classic octagon shape, this is an iconic Italian coffee maker made by an iconic Italian brand . A real statement piece for your kitchen, you can also take this out and about with you.

Just large enough to hold 4.4 ounces of coffee, this coffee maker is just right for 2. From start to finish, the Bialetti only takes 5 minutes to brew the perfect cup, so you and another coffee drinker can enjoy the very best in next to no time at all.

The distinctive 8-sided shape allows the heat to diffuse perfectly to enhance the aroma of your coffee, and the rich, aromatic flavor is as good as anything you will find in a coffee shop, all in the comfort of your own home.

• Can be washed with just water
• Easy to burn yourself as the pot gets very hot

Presto 02835 MyJo Single Cup Coffee Maker

With its compact design, this single cup coffee maker offers many of the benefits of larger coffee makers in a perfectly portable package.

Using single-serve packs, the Presto MyJo offers a portable and affordable way to make great coffee using a K-Cup. By simply compressing the air inside the reservoir to push water through the pack, rich, smooth coffee will drip into your cup, ready to be enjoyed.

Easy to clean, you only need to rinse the base , while the single-serve packs can be disposed of and replaced by a new one when it’s time to brew again. The hot water reservoir is safe and easy to handle, and this type of coffee maker is a good choice for use in hotels and other bases where no coffee machine is present.

• Water can be heated in the reservoir in the microwave
• The rubber seal can fail over time, causing leaks

KOHIPRESS The Original Portable French Press Coffee Maker

As one of the best-selling portable French press coffee makers, there must be something pretty special about this compact little compact coffee maker. Using its patented “Advanced Isolation Mechanism” and a fine mesh filter, coffee lovers can enjoy a rich, flavorsome cup of joe, where the grounds really have separated perfectly from the brew after pressing.

For travelers who appreciate both function and form, the sleek, cylindrical design is sure to impress, and the 3-minute brew time means even quicker coffee.

The insulated double-wall vacuum construction, along with the completely leakproof design, will ensure that your coffee stays hot and tasty wherever you are headed — a really good quality coffee maker for real coffee lovers.

• Coffee grounds stay separated for great tasting coffee
• Coffee doesn’t stay hot for very long

If you can’t get going in the morning without your caffeine fix, a portable coffee maker could be your new best friend. Whether you choose a simple pour-over or a sophisticated espresso maker, the perfect portable beverage is yours for the making.

For smaller budgets, remote locations, and the most intrepid adventurers, invest in a pour-over with easy cleaning capabilities. If you can take your coffee maker home to a dishwasher, or want something that offers a superior brew to better your barista, a French press or espresso maker might be more your thing.

Looking for more travel products? Explore all of our best travel products reviews — all in one place. For coffee junkies, also check out our travel coffee grinders guide to get that perfect cup of coffee on the go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i take a coffee maker in my carry-on.

Coffee makers and espresso makers can be packed in your carry-on. Just make sure that there is no liquid inside.

Can you use a coffee maker without electricity?

There are many portable coffee makers that do not require electricity or even batteries. For example, the STARESSO Portable Espresso Machine runs on elbow grease alone, as does the Wacaco Minipresso.

What is the best travel coffee maker?

There are plenty of great lightweight, affordable, and portable coffee makers that are perfect for travel. Here are a few you should consider:

• Wacaco Minipresso GR
• Espro Travel Coffee Press

Are there battery-operated coffee makers?

Some portable coffee machines are battery-operated, but most have a built-in rechargeable battery. Other coffee machines are hand-operated.

How do you make coffee when traveling?

From single cup heaters to coffee makers you can share with friends, a portable coffee maker is a travel must-have. These range from a French press to an espresso machine and are usually simple to use by adding ground coffee or whole beans.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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The 16 Best Portable Coffee Makers for Travel

By Jason Barnette | Travel writer and photographer with 15+ years of road tripping experience

• Last Updated on November 1, 2023
• Published on April 9, 2023

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my Affiliate Disclosure here .

About 75% of Americans drink coffee on weekdays, and half of those enjoy the caffeinated beverage daily. At home, it’s easy to whip up a delicious latte with the Breville Barista Express or brew a single-serve coffee with a Keurig. But while those caffeine-churning machines are great at home, they are lousy travel companions.

Coffee shops – especially those with a drive-thru – are popular among coffee drinkers at home and while traveling. But just two coffees per person per day can quickly add up to a large chunk of your travel budget.

Fortunately, portable coffee makers are a great solution. Packable and easy to use, these coffee machines can be fine-tuned to your taste and used before you leave the hotel room.

Browse through this list of the best portable coffee makers and decide which is the best fit for your style of that magnificent morning nectar.

Table of Contents

Quick compare, why buy a portable coffee maker, the different types of portable coffee makers, things to consider with a portable coffee maker, accessories for portable coffee makers, frequently asked questions, wacaco minipresso gr, outin nano portable espresso machine, staresso portable espresso machine, sea to summit x-brew collapsible coffee dripper, gsi outdoors gourmet pour over java set, cafflano klassic all-in-one pour over coffee maker, aeropress go portable travel coffee press kit, bodum travel press, presto myjo single cup coffee maker, brutrek ovrlndr travel coffee french press, espro p1 french press, keurig k-mini plus, black+decker single-serve coffeemaker, chulux single cup coffee maker, makita 18v cordless coffee maker, hamilton beach flexbrew.

• Compact design

Lightweight

All-in-one design

Built-in water heater

Stainless steel construction

Easy to clean

• Includes burr grinder
• Easy to pack

Easy to use

Includes coffee mug

• Brews in less than a minute
• Includes travel cup

Insulated travel mug

Large water reservoir

• Removable bottom
• Stainless steel

Reusable filter

Removable water reservoir

• Retractable cord

Heats water quickly

Removable drip tray

Lockable lid

• Two brew strengths

Short brew time

For some, whether or not to buy a portable coffee maker isn’t an issue because the answer is a resounding “Yes.” But for others, buying a portable coffee maker for travel may seem silly. Why would you want to pack a coffee maker when there are countless places to get coffee?

You may want to buy a portable coffee maker for three good reasons. You don’t need to be a coffee lover to appreciate these reasons. Do any of the reasons appeal to you?

Get coffee when you want it

If you’re anything like me, you want coffee within fifteen minutes of opening your sticky eyelids and rubbing away the last remnants of sleep. The last thing you want is to shower, get dressed, and walk across the street to the coffee shop for your first brew of the day.

If you travel with a portable coffee maker, you can make coffee whenever you want. There is no need to wait in line at the coffee shop or get dressed before you can enjoy that first cup.

Make coffee the way you want it

If you drink coffee regularly, you probably have a particular way you like it. A specific water temperature, a certain volume, and a selection of additives like sugar and cream. But when you travel, you relinquish control over your coffee and rely on the source – a gas station, fast food restaurant, or coffee shop.

If you travel with a portable coffee maker, you can make your coffee just as you like. You can use the same beans or pods, brew the coffee at the same temperature and volume, and add the same ingredients after brewing. And if you travel with a portable fridge , you can keep your coffee creamer chilled between stops on your road trips.

Spend less on coffee and more money on travel

Good coffee isn’t cheap and cheap coffee isn’t good. And while it’s fun to explore local coffee shops while traveling, they can quickly become a drain on your travel budget. Even those one-dollar coffees at the gas station will add up over a week. If you travel with a portable coffee maker, you can save the money you would have spent and put it towards a museum admission or kayak rental.

There are lots of ways of brewing coffee and lots of ways to finish it after brewing. If you drink coffee at home, you likely already know your preferred method of brewing coffee. But when you travel, you might want to try something different, like espresso drinks for an extra caffeine boost or a pour over coffee for something quick and easy.

Here are the different types of portable coffee makers that you could easily pack for your next trip.

Espresso beans are regular coffee beans roasted longer and ground finer for brewing. The result is a richer flavor profile enjoyable in shots, double shots, or espresso drinks like lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos. At home, popular espresso machines like the Breville Barista Pro injects hot, pressurized water through a porta filter filled with finely ground beans.

While there are several portable espresso makers, they all require one key ingredient that is tricky while traveling: hot water. This requires a separate accessory for heating water before you can brew an espresso coffee, adding time and labor to the process.

Portable espresso makers are the easiest to travel with but have the heftiest price tag.

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Pour over is the easiest method for brewing coffee at home or on the road. A paper filter on top of a container is filled with ground coffee, and then hot water is methodically poured over the grounds. The Chemex Pour-Over Glass Coffeemaker is a popular model for pour over drinkers at home.

While traveling, the pour over is a quick and easy method for brewing coffee. But, like espresso drinks, it requires hot water. Portable pour over coffee makers are the least expensive of all the options and the easiest to pack.

French Press

The French Press method of coffee making is popular among backpackers and campers because of how easy it is. First, water is heated in a vessel to the desired temperature. Then, ground coffee is gently poured on top and allowed to soak for a specific time. Finally, a fine mesh filter is pressed down, pushing the coffee grounds to the bottom of the vessel so the coffee can be poured into a mug.

Like the two previous options, the French Press requires hot water. And this method tends to be the messiest, with the wet coffee grounds pressed into the bottom of the vessel that must be cleaned between each use. Portable French Press coffee makers are somewhere in the middle for price and portability, but from start to finish takes the longest amount of time to brew coffee.

Single Serve

Drip coffee is the most common way of making coffee in the world. From large 12-cup glass coffee pots to stainless steel carafes and single-serve options, there are more options for drip coffee machines than any other method of brewing coffee. Ground coffee is placed in a filter basket or a pod inserted, and the machine does the rest, heating water and slowly trickling through the grounds and into the coffee mug.

Single serve coffee makers are the most convenient for travel, especially the models that can use pods. The machines require power, but so does the kettle to make hot water for all the previous options. But the machines require minimal cleaning and manual labor, producing coffee faster and easier.

Portable single-serve coffee makers compete with espresso makers for price. The makers are also larger and near impossible to pack in checked luggage if flying. However, the makers are the best option for road trippers and use in hotel rooms.

Before confirming your purchase of a portable coffee maker, there are some things to consider when making your decision. This decision might be easy if you’re set on a particular coffee-making method. But if you’re open to new possibilities, there are options for your needs.

If you’re flying, space in your luggage is a premium. But even if you’re road tripping, space in your car is limited. Giant coffee makers permanently parked on your kitchen countertop are not ideal for travel, so look for smaller coffee makers that are easier to pack and carry.

Like the size, if you’re flying, weight is a premium. Small usually means light, but not always. Look for a lightweight, portable coffee maker that will be easier to carry in your luggage.

Compactness

Some portable coffee makers come in all-in-one packages that make it easy to keep up with the various components. These are the best coffee makers, especially if you’re checking in and out of multiple hotels on a road trip.

This is the least important concern for travel unless you’re camping in an Alaskan yurt. You’ll likely have power wherever you travel, but finding an available outlet can sometimes be difficult. And, if your portable coffee maker requires power, you won’t be using it in your vehicle without a good power inverter .

Most portable coffee makers are built on the principle of brewing single-serve coffee. Anything more required a large and hefty carafe. Be sure you’re happy with one serving at a time, especially if you need two or more coffees immediately in the morning.

Portable coffee makers are slower than their counterparts sitting at your house. Instead of always having hot water ready, a portable coffee maker must heat the water and brew the coffee with each serving. And that can become a problem if you need coffee for two or more people every morning. Some portable coffee makers are faster than others, which might be the deciding factor.

A lot of portable coffee makers must be cleaned between each use. This means it will take longer and more effort to make each coffee. You might want to consider a single-serve coffee maker that will be faster and easier to use.

Accessories

A world of accessories exists for every portable coffee maker, but some require additional items. Depending on your purchase, you may need a coffee grinder, hot water kettle, and travel case. The total investment increases along with the size and weight of your luggage.

The availability of hot water is probably the most important factor in the type of portable coffee maker you choose. Unless you enjoy cold coffee, you will need hot water to make your coffee. Single serve coffee machines have built-in heating elements, but many other types will require a hot water kettle. That means buying and packing an additional device in your luggage.

One of the benefits of a portable coffee maker is saving money on what you otherwise might have spent at Starbucks. Consider how many coffees you would need to brew to see a return on your investment before plunging into the world of portable coffee makers.

For every kind of retail item, there is a third-party accessory catalog. Portable coffee makers are no exception. But while some accessories are nice, others are necessary depending on what kind of coffee maker you buy.

Here are some accessories for portable – and not-so-portable – coffee makers you might want to add to your shopping cart.

Craft Coffee: A Manual If you’re new to drinking coffee or want to learn more about coffee making, Craft Coffee: A Manual is a good purchase. The 272-page book dives into the methods of brewing coffee, necessary hardware and accessories, and how to get the most flavor from the coffee beans.

JavaPresse Manual Coffee Grinder The JavaPresse Manual Coffee Grinder trades electricity for elbow grease. The tall stainless steel cylinder is easy to grip with one hand while spinning the grinder with the other. 18 grind settings mean you can produce ground coffee from fine to coarse for your preferred brewing method. And at just half a pound, you’ll barely notice it in your luggage.

KRUPS Silent Vortex Electric Grinder Ironically, the KRUPS “Silent” Vortex Electric Grinder isn’t silent but close to quiet. The grinder’s 12-cup capacity makes it easy to prepare however much ground coffee you need daily. And then removable stainless steel grinding bowl makes it easy to pour and clean. At 2.4 pounds, it’s light to carry, and the power cord is stored beneath the grinder.

Miir Coffee Canister Keep your coffee beans fresh while traveling with the Miir Coffee Canister . The airtight stainless steel canister has a 12-ounce capacity for typical single roasted bean bags. The durable powdered coated hardshell will come in handy when traveling long distances. And at just one pound, when empty, it won’t weigh you down.

Jettle Electric Kettle You’ll need hot water if you want espresso, French Press, or pour over coffee while traveling. The Jettle Electric Kettle is the most portable hot water kettle on the market. At 10″ tall and 4″ in diameter, the cylindrical device is easy to pack in your luggage. And with a 16-ounce capacity, you’ll have boiling water in about five minutes. The power cord disconnects and stores inside the device for travel.

Café Casa Milk Frother To enjoy lattes, you’ll need the Café Casa Milk Frother and a portable espresso coffee maker. The frother features an ergonomic grip, two-speed settings, and a stainless steel whisk. And at just over a quarter of a pound, it won’t hinder your luggage.

BESTEK Power Inverter Did you know it’s possible to brew coffee in your car? With a BESTEK Power Inverter, you can power various electronic devices while your car’s engine runs. The BESTEK 150W Inverter can power smaller electronic devices, but you’ll need the BESTEK 300W or BESTEK 2000W for most portable coffee makers.

YETI Rambler Mug The stainless steel YETI Rambler Mug is a great travel mug for carrying around the campsite, hotel room, or lodge. Available in 10-ounce , 14-ounce , and 24-ounce capacities, the mugs feature a leak-proof MagSlider lid and comfortable carry handle.

THERMOS Stainless King Travel Mug The 16-ounce THERMOS Stainless King Travel Mug is the king of vacuum-insulated mugs. The stainless steel mug features a leak-proof lid and comfortable handle, making it perfect for taking coffee.

The Best Portable Espresso Makers

The Wacaco Minipresso GR is one of the easiest portable espresso makers. The compact all-in-one kit features a built-in scoop and cup, so everything conveniently remains together as you travel. And with the optional Minipresso Case , you can keep your investment protected.

The Wacaco Minipresso GR uses a semi-automatic hand pump to inject hot water through the filter basket. With a 2.35-ounce water reservoir, you can quickly brew two espresso shots with a few one-handed pumps. The manual operation means no dependency on power or batteries – this could be good or bad, depending on how you view manually crafting your coffee.

Like all portable espresso makers, the Wacaco Minipresso GR requires hot water from another source. The Jettle Electric Kettle is a perfect portable companion for getting boiling water. The Wacaco Minipresso GR measures just 7 inches tall and weighs less than a pound, making it easy to pack for travel.

Compact design and lightweight

Optional travel case

Requires hot water

Takes 7-10 minutes to brew a shot

Must clean after every use

Best Portable Espresso Maker

The OutIn Nano Portable Espresso Machine is a quantum leap beyond the competition with a built-in water heater. At 9″ tall and 3″ in diameter, it’s the same size and weight as the competition and a perfectly portable espresso maker.

The OutIn Nano uses a 7500mAh rechargeable battery for the effortless brewing of espresso shots. On a single charge, the machine can produce five shots of espresso. Each brew takes about 5 minutes to heat the water from room temperature and 3 minutes to extract the shot. Recharging is simple, though, with the standard USB-C cable and power block – not included.

The OuttIn Nano is an all-in-one design that makes it easy to pack for travel. An advantage of the OutIn espresso machine is the option to use capsules from popular brands like Nespresso . However, you can still grind coffee beans for a shot.

Battery powered

Uses capsules or ground coffee

Battery requires frequent recharging

Heating requires at least 30% battery power

The Staresso Portable Espresso Machine is a fine portable espresso maker if you don’t mind a little manual labor. The all-in-one design keeps everything together, including the coffee scoop, capsule cutter for Nespresso -style capsules, and filter basket for ground coffee. Stainless steel construction means this compact and lightweight machine can survive jostling while traveling.

After using something like the Jettle Electric Kettle for boiling water, the Staresso Portable Espresso Machine produces a single shot of espresso in about 5 minutes. Unlike other portable espresso machines, the Staresso machine securely holds the cup to the body while pumping for the perfect extraction.

No plastic parts – stainless steel construction

Top-mounted manual pump

The Best Portable Pour Over Coffee Makers

Sea to Summit specializes in lightweight gear for backpackers. So, of course, their X-Brew Collapsible Coffee Dripper is also perfect for travelers – especially if you fly. The silicone cone is collapsible to less than an inch thick, so you can slide it into a sleeve of your carry-on bag. The stainless steel mesh filter is removable for easy cleaning. And the entire setup weighs only 3 ounces.

However, a downside to pour over coffee makers is the need for hot water. The Jettle Electric Kettle is easy to get hot water for your pour over while traveling. Once the hot water is ready, brewing a coffee into your favorite travel mug takes less than a minute.

Pack in a carry-on bag

Easy to damage

US-based GSI Outdoors is one of the world’s largest family-owned outdoor gear makers. The company specializes in gear for backpacking and car camping. The GSI Outdoors Gourmet Pour Over Java Set is a happy product that meets the needs of backpackers, campers, and travelers all at once.

The silicone cone features a large, 5.6″ diameter plastic flange to help center the pour over your travel coffee mug. When finished, the cone collapses to 1″ high and weighs less than a pound. A plastic cover snaps onto the flange to keep everything together. It’s the perfect way to brew coffee if you fly with just a carry-on bag.

Of course, you’ll need hot water. The Jettle Electric Kettle can boil water in less than five minutes and easily packs into most bags.

Kit includes an adjustable manual conical burr grinder

Lightweight and compact design

Large plastic flange

It can be packed in a carry-on bag

The plastic flange is easily broken while traveling

Best Pour Over Coffee Maker

The Cafflano Klassic All-in-One Pour Over Cofee Maker is one of the most innovative coffee machines ever produced. The nifty device features a kettle, conical burr grinder, pour over filter, and a coffee mug that assembles into a 7.6″x3.5″ travel container. And weighing just one pound, it’s easy to pack for travel.

The adjustable conical burr grinder uses human power to produce fresh ground coffee directly into the pour over filter. The pre-measured kettle features a pour spout for fine control of the pour over. The pour over filter fits snugly onto the insulated tumbler. Pour water through the filter, remove the filter, and you’ll have coffee in less than a minute.

The only thing missing from the otherwise flawless portable coffee maker is a means to produce hot water. The Jettle Electric Kettle can make hot water in about five minutes, and the pre-measured Cafflano Klassic kettle will ensure you get the correct amount of water each time.

Mug does not have a lid

The Best Portable French Press Coffee Makers

All it takes is a single pump when brewing coffee with the Aeropress Go . The French press portable coffee maker uses a hand pump to push water through ground coffee in a filter basket to make delicious coffee. The process takes only a few minutes – but you’ll have to make the hot water first.

The 15-ounce travel cup does double duty as storage for the various components of the travel coffee kit. The scoop, stirrer, additional paper filters , and pump fit inside the cup, and a silicone cap keeps everything secured.

The all-plastic design means the Aeropress Go is more fragile than its stainless steel counterparts. And the paper filter means you’ll need to carry spares and pack enough to last the duration of your trip. Finally, you’ll need something like the Jettle Electric Kettle to make hot water for your coffee.

Less than a minute to brew coffee

Travel cup also serves as storage

Uses paper filters

All-plastic design

The travel cup does not have a sip lid

The Bodum Travel Press is as simple as it gets with a portable coffee maker. The 15-ounce stainless steel tumbler stores everything inside until you can make coffee. The plunger is built into the leak-proof lid for easy use without assembly.

You’ll need something like the Jettle Electric Kettle to make the hot water, though. Once the hot water is poured into the tumbler, add your ground coffee, wait a few minutes, and press the plunger. Enjoy your coffee first, and clean up everything later.

Small brewing capacity

Only makes one coffee for one person at a time

Depending on how you brew coffee at home, the Presto MyJo Single Cup Coffee Maker could have one significant advantage over other French press coffee makers: it uses pods instead of ground coffee. The all-in-one design keeps everything together and makes packing easy for travel. When you’re ready to use, simply open the base, pop in a k-pod or other brand, and you’re ready to pump your delicious coffee.

Like other portable coffee makers, you’ll need something like the Jettle Electric Kettle to make hot water. Once boiling, pour into the Presto MyJo water reservoir and start pumping.

The Presto MyJo is slightly bigger than other portable coffee makers, measuring 9″ tall and about 4″ wide. However, it weighs less than a pound, so it’s still easy to carry around in your luggage.

Uses pods instead of ground coffee

Not a compact design

All plastic parts

Best Portable French Press Coffee Maker

Although BruTrek’s budget was too small to buy vowels, the BruTrek OVRLNDR is one of the best portable coffee makers for travel. The all-in-one design keeps everything together for easy packing and prevents lost parts. The stainless steel components are durable and will survive the rigors of travel. At 9.5″ tall, it will take some room in your luggage, and at 1.5 pounds, it’s still lightweight but heavier than the competition.

The innovative removable bottom is the coolest – or hottest, depending on how you like your coffee – part about the BruTrek OVRLNDR. The bottom of the insulated travel mug detaches to make cleaning the soggy coffee grounds effortless.

You’ll need something like the Jettle Electric Kettle to make hot water. Once ready, pour the water into the travel mug, add your ground coffee, and screw on the leak-proof lid with a built-in plunger. A single plunge and you’re drinking a delicious coffee.

Stainless steel components

Removable bottom for easy cleaning

Reusable stainless steel mesh filter

Only makes one coffee for one person

Heavier than other portable coffee makers

Have you ever sipped French press coffee and found gritty coffee grounds? With a patented double-filter design, the ESPRO P1 promises to prevent that irritating problem. Pour hot water into the 14-ounce travel mug, add your ground coffee, and press the plunger down. The basket-shaped reusable mesh filter squeezes the coffee through and pushes the grounds to the bottom.

With the Jettle Electric Kettle , you’ll have hot water in five minutes. Then, it takes just a couple more minutes to brew your coffee in the ESPRO P1. The insulated travel mug keeps the coffee hot, and the leak-proof lid will keep it from spilling.

The ESPRO P1 is 8″ tall and 3″ wide and weighs less than a pound, making it easy to pack and travel.

Stainless steel, all-in-one design

Insulated travel mug with lid

Small capacity

The Best Portable Single Serve Coffee Makers

Best Single Serve Coffee Maker

Keurig popularized the use of coffee pods – small plastic cups filled with a single scoop of ground coffee for brewing one coffee at a time. Single-use coffee machines are common in kitchens across the country today.

And the Keurig K-Mini Plus is the perfect portable coffee machine.

The single-serve coffee maker uses any brand’s pods to brew up to 12 ounces. The removable water reservoir is easily filled with pre-measured amounts etched into the clear plastic sides. The Keurig K-Mini Plus heats water on demand for each single-serve coffee. Brewing a coffee takes about five minutes from start to finish.

The removable tray allows for up to a 16.8″ travel mug. The 26″ power cord stores in a compartment in the back of the coffee maker. And a removable compartment holds 9 pods. With the additional travel bag , it’s easy to pack the Keurig K-Mini Plus in your car.

Compatible with travel mugs

Retractable power cord

Built-in pod storage

Easy to pack with an additional bag

Short power cord

Only uses coffee pods

The BLACK+DECKER Single Serve Coffeemaker is one of the lightest and most compact on the market. But that’s because it’s a barebones portable coffee maker with few features. Pour up to 16 ounces of water into the built-in reservoir, fill the removable filter basket with ground coffee, and press a button to brew.

It takes about five minutes for the single-brew coffee to heat and trickle through the filter basket into the included travel mug. The travel mug is a nice feature, but the lid is prone to leaking, and poor insulation does not keep the coffee warm for long. The portable coffee maker has clearance for a 7″ travel mug.

At 12″ tall and weighing just 3 pounds, the BLACK+DECKER Single Serve Coffeemaker is compact and lightweight, perfect for packing in your car.

Removable brew basket

Excellent brew capacity

Compact and lightweight design

Travel mug with lid included

Only uses ground coffee

Poor travel mug design

The CHULUX Single Cup Coffee Maker is great for travelers who want fresh drip coffee in the mornings. The portable coffee maker is just 9″ tall and weighs about 2 pounds, so it’s easy to pack.

The built-in water reservoir holds up to 12 ounces. The filter basket is only compatible with coffee pods. But once those are loaded, the coffee maker features a lockable lid to prevent accidentally spilling contents if knocked over in the hotel room.

Powerful heating elements means it only takes 3 minutes to brew a 12-ounce coffee. The removable drip tray allows for up to a 5.3″ coffee mug. At 10″ tall and 2.2 pounds, it’s great for travel to rental units where you’ll have coffee mugs to use instead of travel mugs.

Short travel mug size

Even if you’re not heading out to the job site, the Makita 18V Cordless Coffee Maker is an interesting portable machine. The coffee maker uses 18V or 12V lithium-ion batteries to produce up to three 5-ounce coffees on a single 4Ah battery. The cordless design makes it convenient for brewing in the car or without hassling to find an outlet.

The removable water reservoir makes it easy to fill. Insert a coffee packet into the basket or use ground coffee with the permanent built-in filter. Brewing a single coffee takes about 5 minutes after pressing the power button. But with only 3.5″ of clearance, you can only use small coffee mugs – no travel mugs for this coffee machine.

This is a great portable coffee maker if you don’t have room in your luggage to fit another compact coffee maker. The rugged exterior features a carry handle to grab and go. But you’ll also need to grab an extra battery and charger.

Uses packets or ground coffee

Requires 18V battery (not included)

Few brews per battery

Minimal mug clearance

The Hamilton Beach FlexBrew Single Serve Coffee Maker is a perfect compact solution for brewing pods or ground coffee while traveling. The coffee maker features an interchangeable, reusable filter basket and piercing pod insert, so you can brew coffee however you prefer. With pods, the coffee maker produces 10-ounce coffees, and with ground coffee, you can get a 14-ounce coffee.

The coffee maker requires a lot of power, though – 1,000 watts. That’s not an issue if plugging into a household outlet in a hotel or house rental. But if you want to use this coffee maker in the car, you’ll need a bigger power inverter for a portable coffee maker. Two brewing strengths are a bonus with the Hamilton Beach FlexBrew. Choose between Regular and Bold to begin the brew.

The coffee maker can fit most travel mugs with an 8″ height. The removable cup rest makes it easy to use smaller coffee mugs and the rest doubles as extra storage.

The coffee maker is compact at 13″ tall and weighs just 3 pounds. However, portability is hindered by a fixed 2-foot power cord that cannot be retracted for storage.

Uses pods or ground coffee

10-14-ounce brew capacity

Two brew strength settings

Travel mug compatible

Removable cup rest

The water reservoir is not removable

High power demand

Cannot retract the power cord

Portable coffee makers make it easy to travel with a coffee maker. Compact and lightweight pour over and espresso coffee makers can easily pack into your luggage. Single serve coffee makers are too large for luggage, but some are still small enough to easily pack in your car.

Portable coffee makers work on the same principle as countertop coffee makers at home. Portable coffee makers can use ground coffee, Nespresso pods, or coffee pods. Hot water is poured through the coffee into a travel mug. The only difference with portable coffee makers – and their biggest downside – is how you get the hot water.

Yes, you can bring a coffee maker on a plane. The Transportation Safety Administration allows electronic items like coffee and espresso makers to be packed in carry-on or checked luggage.

Yes, the Transportation Safety Administration allows U.S. fliers to pack portable coffee and espresso makers in their luggage.

Yes, the Transportation Safety Administration allows U.S. fliers to pack portable coffee and espresso makers in carry-on luggage.

Yes, the Keurig K-Mini and Keurig K-Mini Plus are excellent travel coffee makers. Although Keurig does not market them specifically for travel, the compact and lightweight coffee makers are perfect for travel.

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The Moscow Metro Museum of Art: 10 Must-See Stations

There are few times one can claim having been on the subway all afternoon and loving it, but the Moscow Metro provides just that opportunity.  While many cities boast famous public transport systems—New York’s subway, London’s underground, San Salvador’s chicken buses—few warrant hours of exploration.  Moscow is different: Take one ride on the Metro, and you’ll find out that this network of railways can be so much more than point A to B drudgery.

The Metro began operating in 1935 with just thirteen stations, covering less than seven miles, but it has since grown into the world’s third busiest transit system ( Tokyo is first ), spanning about 200 miles and offering over 180 stops along the way.  The construction of the Metro began under Joseph Stalin’s command, and being one of the USSR’s most ambitious building projects, the iron-fisted leader instructed designers to create a place full of svet (radiance) and svetloe budushchee (a radiant future), a palace for the people and a tribute to the Mother nation.

Consequently, the Metro is among the most memorable attractions in Moscow.  The stations provide a unique collection of public art, comparable to anything the city’s galleries have to offer and providing a sense of the Soviet era, which is absent from the State National History Museum.  Even better, touring the Metro delivers palpable, experiential moments, which many of us don’t get standing in front of painting or a case of coins.

Though tours are available , discovering the Moscow Metro on your own provides a much more comprehensive, truer experience, something much less sterile than following a guide.  What better place is there to see the “real” Moscow than on mass transit: A few hours will expose you to characters and caricatures you’ll be hard-pressed to find dining near the Bolshoi Theater.  You become part of the attraction, hear it in the screech of the train, feel it as hurried commuters brush by: The Metro sucks you beneath the city and churns you into the mix.

With the recommendations of our born-and-bred Muscovite students, my wife Emma and I have just taken a self-guided tour of what some locals consider the top ten stations of the Moscow Metro. What most satisfied me about our Metro tour was the sense of adventure .  I loved following our route on the maps of the wagon walls as we circled the city, plotting out the course to the subsequent stops; having the weird sensation of being underground for nearly four hours; and discovering the next cavern of treasures, playing Indiana Jones for the afternoon, piecing together fragments of Russia’s mysterious history.  It’s the ultimate interactive museum.

Top Ten Stations (In order of appearance)

Kievskaya station.

Kievskaya Station went public in March of 1937, the rails between it and Park Kultury Station being the first to cross the Moscow River.  Kievskaya is full of mosaics depicting aristocratic scenes of Russian life, with great cameo appearances by Lenin, Trotsky, and Stalin.  Each work has a Cyrillic title/explanation etched in the marble beneath it; however, if your Russian is rusty, you can just appreciate seeing familiar revolutionary dates like 1905 ( the Russian Revolution ) and 1917 ( the October Revolution ).

Mayakovskaya Station

Mayakovskaya Station ranks in my top three most notable Metro stations. Mayakovskaya just feels right, done Art Deco but no sense of gaudiness or pretention.  The arches are adorned with rounded chrome piping and create feeling of being in a jukebox, but the roof’s expansive mosaics of the sky are the real showstopper.  Subjects cleverly range from looking up at a high jumper, workers atop a building, spires of Orthodox cathedrals, to nimble aircraft humming by, a fleet of prop planes spelling out CCCP in the bluest of skies.

Novoslobodskaya Station

Novoslobodskaya is the Metro’s unique stained glass station.  Each column has its own distinctive panels of colorful glass, most of them with a floral theme, some of them capturing the odd sailor, musician, artist, gardener, or stenographer in action.  The glass is framed in Art Deco metalwork, and there is the lovely aspect of discovering panels in the less frequented haunches of the hall (on the trackside, between the incoming staircases).  Novosblod is, I’ve been told, the favorite amongst out-of-town visitors.

Komsomolskaya Station

Komsomolskaya Station is one of palatial grandeur.  It seems both magnificent and obligatory, like the presidential palace of a colonial city.  The yellow ceiling has leafy, white concrete garland and a series of golden military mosaics accenting the tile mosaics of glorified Russian life.  Switching lines here, the hallway has an Alice-in-Wonderland feel, impossibly long with decorative tile walls, culminating in a very old station left in a remarkable state of disrepair, offering a really tangible glimpse behind the palace walls.

Dostoevskaya Station

Dostoevskaya is a tribute to the late, great hero of Russian literature .  The station at first glance seems bare and unimpressive, a stark marble platform without a whiff of reassembled chips of tile.  However, two columns have eerie stone inlay collages of scenes from Dostoevsky’s work, including The Idiot , The Brothers Karamazov , and Crime and Punishment.   Then, standing at the center of the platform, the marble creates a kaleidoscope of reflections.  At the entrance, there is a large, inlay portrait of the author.

Chkalovskaya Station

Chkalovskaya does space Art Deco style (yet again).  Chrome borders all.  Passageways with curvy overhangs create the illusion of walking through the belly of a chic, new-age spacecraft.  There are two (kos)mosaics, one at each end, with planetary subjects.  Transferring here brings you above ground, where some rather elaborate metalwork is on display.  By name similarity only, I’d expected Komsolskaya Station to deliver some kosmonaut décor; instead, it was Chkalovskaya that took us up to the space station.

Elektrozavodskaya Station

Elektrozavodskaya is full of marble reliefs of workers, men and women, laboring through the different stages of industry.  The superhuman figures are round with muscles, Hollywood fit, and seemingly undeterred by each Herculean task they respectively perform.  The station is chocked with brass, from hammer and sickle light fixtures to beautiful, angular framework up the innards of the columns.  The station’s art pieces are less clever or extravagant than others, but identifying the different stages of industry is entertaining.

Baumanskaya Statio

Baumanskaya Station is the only stop that wasn’t suggested by the students.  Pulling in, the network of statues was just too enticing: Out of half-circle depressions in the platform’s columns, the USSR’s proud and powerful labor force again flaunts its success.  Pilots, blacksmiths, politicians, and artists have all congregated, posing amongst more Art Deco framing.  At the far end, a massive Soviet flag dons the face of Lenin and banners for ’05, ’17, and ‘45.  Standing in front of the flag, you can play with the echoing roof.

Ploshchad Revolutsii Station

Novokuznetskaya Station

Novokuznetskaya Station finishes off this tour, more or less, where it started: beautiful mosaics.  This station recalls the skyward-facing pieces from Mayakovskaya (Station #2), only with a little larger pictures in a more cramped, very trafficked area.  Due to a line of street lamps in the center of the platform, it has the atmosphere of a bustling market.  The more inventive sky scenes include a man on a ladder, women picking fruit, and a tank-dozer being craned in.  The station’s also has a handsome black-and-white stone mural.

Here is a map and a brief description of our route:

Start at (1)Kievskaya on the “ring line” (look for the squares at the bottom of the platform signs to help you navigate—the ring line is #5, brown line) and go north to Belorusskaya, make a quick switch to the Dark Green/#2 line, and go south one stop to (2)Mayakovskaya.  Backtrack to the ring line—Brown/#5—and continue north, getting off at (3)Novosblodskaya and (4)Komsolskaya.  At Komsolskaya Station, transfer to the Red/#1 line, go south for two stops to Chistye Prudy, and get on the Light Green/#10 line going north.  Take a look at (5)Dostoevskaya Station on the northern segment of Light Green/#10 line then change directions and head south to (6)Chkalovskaya, which offers a transfer to the Dark Blue/#3 line, going west, away from the city center.  Have a look (7)Elektroskaya Station before backtracking into the center of Moscow, stopping off at (8)Baumskaya, getting off the Dark Blue/#3 line at (9)Ploschad Revolyutsii.  Change to the Dark Green/#2 line and go south one stop to see (10)Novokuznetskaya Station.

Check out our new Moscow Indie Travel Guide , book a flight to Moscow and read 10 Bars with Views Worth Blowing the Budget For

Jonathon Engels, formerly a patron saint of misadventure, has been stumbling his way across cultural borders since 2005 and is currently volunteering in the mountains outside of Antigua, Guatemala.  For more of his work, visit his website and blog .

Photo credits:   SergeyRod , all others courtesy of the author and may not be used without permission

Claudia Looi

Touring the Top 10 Moscow Metro Stations

By Claudia Looi 2 Comments

Komsomolskaya metro station looks like a museum. It has vaulted ceilings and baroque decor.

Hidden underground, in the heart of Moscow, are historical and architectural treasures of Russia. These are Soviet-era creations – the metro stations of Moscow.

Our guide Maria introduced these elaborate metro stations as “the palaces for the people.” Built between 1937 and 1955, each station holds its own history and stories. Stalin had the idea of building beautiful underground spaces that the masses could enjoy. They would look like museums, art centers, concert halls, palaces and churches. Each would have a different theme. None would be alike.

The two-hour private tour was with a former Intourist tour guide named Maria. Maria lived in Moscow all her life and through the communist era of 60s to 90s. She has been a tour guide for more than 30 years. Being in her 60s, she moved rather quickly for her age. We traveled and crammed with Maria and other Muscovites on the metro to visit 10 different metro stations.

Arrow showing the direction of metro line 1 and 2

Moscow subways are very clean

To Maria, every street, metro and building told a story. I couldn’t keep up with her stories. I don’t remember most of what she said because I was just thrilled being in Moscow.   Added to that, she spilled out so many Russian words and names, which to one who can’t read Cyrillic, sounded so foreign and could be easily forgotten.

The metro tour was the first part of our all day tour of Moscow with Maria. Here are the stations we visited:

1. Komsomolskaya Metro Station  is the most beautiful of them all. Painted yellow and decorated with chandeliers, gold leaves and semi precious stones, the station looks like a stately museum. And possibly decorated like a palace. I saw Komsomolskaya first, before the rest of the stations upon arrival in Moscow by train from St. Petersburg.

2. Revolution Square Metro Station (Ploshchad Revolyutsii) has marble arches and 72 bronze sculptures designed by Alexey Dushkin. The marble arches are flanked by the bronze sculptures. If you look closely you will see passersby touching the bronze dog's nose. Legend has it that good luck comes to those who touch the dog's nose.

Touch the dog's nose for good luck. At the Revolution Square station

Revolution Square Metro Station

3. Arbatskaya Metro Station served as a shelter during the Soviet-era. It is one of the largest and the deepest metro stations in Moscow.

Arbatskaya Metro Station

4. Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station was built in 1935 and named after the Russian State Library. It is located near the library and has a big mosaic portrait of Lenin and yellow ceramic tiles on the track walls.

Lenin's portrait at the Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station

5. Kievskaya Metro Station was one of the first to be completed in Moscow. Named after the capital city of Ukraine by Kiev-born, Nikita Khruschev, Stalin's successor.

Kievskaya Metro Station

6. Novoslobodskaya Metro Station  was built in 1952. It has 32 stained glass murals with brass borders.

Novoslobodskaya metro station

7. Kurskaya Metro Station was one of the first few to be built in Moscow in 1938. It has ceiling panels and artwork showing Soviet leadership, Soviet lifestyle and political power. It has a dome with patriotic slogans decorated with red stars representing the Soviet's World War II Hall of Fame. Kurskaya Metro Station is a must-visit station in Moscow.

Ceiling panel and artworks at Kurskaya Metro Station

8. Mayakovskaya Metro Station built in 1938. It was named after Russian poet Vladmir Mayakovsky. This is one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world with 34 mosaics painted by Alexander Deyneka.

Mayakovskaya station

One of the over 30 ceiling mosaics in Mayakovskaya metro station

9. Belorusskaya Metro Station is named after the people of Belarus. In the picture below, there are statues of 3 members of the Partisan Resistance in Belarus during World War II. The statues were sculpted by Sergei Orlov, S. Rabinovich and I. Slonim.

10. Teatralnaya Metro Station (Theatre Metro Station) is located near the Bolshoi Theatre.

Teatralnaya Metro Station decorated with porcelain figures .

Taking the metro's escalator at the end of the tour with Maria the tour guide.

Have you visited the Moscow Metro? Leave your comment below.

January 15, 2017 at 8:17 am

An excellent read! Thanks for much for sharing the Russian metro system with us. We're heading to Moscow in April and exploring the metro stations were on our list and after reading your post, I'm even more excited to go visit them. Thanks again 🙂

December 6, 2017 at 10:45 pm

Hi, do you remember which tour company you contacted for this tour?

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