Coffee makers and kettles

A hot cup of coffee can make your mornings in the wilderness or at the campsite feel like a ritual. MEC offers a wide variety of camping coffee makers and kettles to suit any style of outdoor brew, whether you’re after speed, simplicity or barista-level taste. Visit us in-store or online to check out our camp coffee makers from trusted brands like GSI, Aeropress, Sea to Summit and more.

Why use a camp coffee maker?

Instant coffee is convenient but often lacks flavour. Brewing gear designed for the outdoors, such as portable presses, pour-overs or sturdy coffee pots, delivers far better taste using real grounds and hot water. These camp brewers bring a sense of comfort to your routine and elevate your outdoor kitchen with just a little more effort. For more info on prepping your food and drink for camping, check out our article on backpacking food and meal planning.

Frequently asked questions

What’s the best type of coffee maker for camping?

It depends on your trip. For solo or lightweight camping, a compact AeroPress or pour-over cone is a solid pick. If you’re camping with a group or prefer a traditional brew, a percolator or French press may be better. Look for gear that fits your pack size, brew style and cleanup preferences.

Can I use a French press while camping?

Yes. Many camping French presses are made from stainless steel or durable plastic to handle the outdoors. They’re ideal for rich, full-bodied coffee and work well at basecamps or car camping sites. Just remember to bring coarse-ground coffee and clean the press after use.

How do you clean a coffee maker at camp?

Rinse your brewer with warm water as soon as you’re done using it. For presses or percolators, swish with biodegradable soap and rinse well. If water is limited, wipe out any grounds with a cloth or paper towel and clean thoroughly when you’re back home.

Camp coffee maker buyer’s guide

Pour-over setups

This method pours hot water through grounds in a filter, directly into your mug. Devices like the GSI Rocket pour-over collapse down for compact packing and provide a clean, tasty brew. They’re simple to use and easy to rinse—good for solo campers or light packing days.

Portable coffee presses and AeroPress

AeroPress and camping presses let you brew rich, smooth coffee using hot water and pressure. The AeroPress is a popular choice for backcountry use thanks to its compact design and ability to make both regular and espresso-style coffee quickly. Its durable plastic body is easy to clean, and it makes a reliably good cup even in cold weather situations.

Camping coffee pots and percolators

Made from stainless steel or enamel, these pot-style brewers heat on a camp stove or fire and make multiple servings at once. They’re great for group camping—classic, durable and perfect for sharing. Some double as kettles, giving you boiled water for tea or meals too.