There’s nothing like a cup of hot coffee on a cool morning, and hot drinks taste even better after a cozy night’s sleep in a tent. High-quality camping mugs are an often overlooked piece of camping equipment.
When you’re camping, you don’t really need a lot of dishes. One camping mug can serve morning coffee as easily as it holds an evening glass of wine or a backcountry cocktail. Just make sure to clean it out before the morning!
The best camping mugs
Editor’s choice: Klean Kanteen Camp Mug
- Dishwasher safe
- Double-wall vacuum insulation
- No sweat design prevents damp fingers and frostbite
Pros
- No-spill lid
- Keeps drinks warm/cold
Cons
- Doesn’t fit in cup holders
The Klean Kanteen Camp Mug is a favorite of our testing team. We love its eco-friendly construction, cute design, and excellent heat retention. This mug features an 18/8 stainless steel construction made with 90% post-consumer recycled steel. There is also a splash-proof lid to help retain heat and keep you from making a huge mess if you spill.
We also love the color and design options of this mug. Our tester owns the black mountain design but you can add additional flair with teal, silver, or white. One of our tester’s favorite features is that it’s so easy to clean. It’s quick to clean at camp and once your trip is over, it’s also dishwasher safe.
See Klean Kanteen Camp Mug on Amazon
See Klean Kanteen Camp Mug on REI
See Klean Kanteen Camp Mug on Klean Kanteen
Best collapsible camping mug: Sea to Summit X-Series Collapseable Silicone Coolgrip Camping Mug
- Collapsible 16oz mug
- Food-grade silicone with heat-protective fins
- Reinforced nylon rim
- Dishwasher and microwave safe
Pros
- Folds flat to save space
- Heat-protective fins protect your hands
- Doubles as a measuring cup
Cons
- Would be perfect if it had a lid
This unique camping mug is perfect for backpackers or anyone who needs to save space. I have loved having the Sea to Summit Collapsible camp mug as a staple in my van for car camping because there never seems to be enough space for all the dishes and cooking gear. It also includes measurements so it can double as a measuring cup, which is perfect when trying to cook rice or pancakes in the van.
The coolest thing about this 16oz camping mug is that Sea to Summit designed it with Cool Grip — heat-protective fins that reduce surface temperature and heat transfer. In plain English, that means you can touch the sides without getting burned, even when there’s boiling water or coffee inside. Plus, the textured outside makes it easier to hold onto.
The whole cup folds completely flat when you’re done using it. It’s even microwave-safe. Couple this camp mug with my favorite camping coffee maker, the Sea to Summit X-Brew Collapsible Drip Coffee Maker, and you’ll be ready for a backcountry adventure.
See Sea to Summit X-Series Collapseable Coolgrip Camping Mug on Amazon
See Sea to Summit X-Series Collapseable Coolgrip Camping Mug on Sea to Summit
See Sea to Summit X-Series Collapseable Coolgrip Camping Mug on REI
Best overall camping mug: YETI Rambler Steel Vacuum Insulated Mug
- Dishwasher safe
- Double-wall vacuum insulation
- No sweat design prevents damp fingers and frostbite
Pros
- No-spill Lid
- Keeps drinks warm/cold
Cons
- Doesn’t fit in cup holders
The YETI Rambler Mug is a classic for a reason. YETI is well known for making high-quality products for keeping drinks piping hot and food cold, from their coolers to their insulated mugs. This mug is made out of kitchen-grade stainless steel with double-wall vacuum insulation to keep your cold drinks cold and your hot drinks hot. The steel is puncture and rust-resistant, so it won’t get beat up while living in your camp kitchen. The no-sweat design keeps condensation from gathering on the outside of the mug, keeping your hands comfortable even in cold temperatures.
The wide opening of this mug makes it a useful bowl as well. Eat oatmeal or soup out of it and bring one less dish to deal with. However, the wide opening also makes it more likely to get cold quickly, which is where the MagSlider lid comes in. YETI’s MagSlider lid design is one of the best parts of their camping mugs, it helps your coffee stay hot longer and keeps it from spilling. This spill-resistant lid uses a magnet to provide a smooth sliding closure and is even removable or replaceable with other colored magnets.
See YETI Rambler Steel Vacuum Insulated Mug on Amazon
See YETI Rambler Steel Vacuum Insulated Mug on REI
See YETI Rambler Steel Vacuum Insulated Mug on YETI
Best backpacking mug: GSI Infinity Backpacker Camping Mug
- Weighs 3.5oz
- Insulated
- Collapsible Handle
Pros
- Lightweight
- Multi-use
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Some reviewers experienced durability issues
GSI Outdoors has been making high-quality camp gear for decades and the GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker mug is one of their top products for a reason. Weighing just 3.5oz but holding 17.5oz, this mug provides a unique way to keep your drinks hot without the weight and bulk of double-walled insulation. The cup is made out of non-leaching polypropylene and includes a cloth-wrapped neoprene sleeve for insulation. It can double as a measuring cup as it includes measuring lines on the inner cup.
The spill-resistant lid features a sealable spout to add insulation and keep your liquid contents from spilling or gathering dust and debris on the trail. The sturdy mesh handle is easy to grab and stows when not in use. Plus, the size of this camping mug is perfect for slipping into the mesh side pocket of your backpack.
See GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker Mug on Amazon
See GSI Infinity Backpacker Camping Mug on REI
See GSI Infinity Backpacker Camping Mug on Walmart
Best camping cook set: Stanley Camp 24oz. Cook Set
- Locking handle
- Rust-resistant and BPA-free
- Dishwasher safe
- Lifetime warranty
Pros
- Excellent value cook set
- The cups are insulated
- Lightweight, compact, and backpack friendly
Cons
- Tall and narrow so it can be wobbly when used on a mini camp stove
Looking for an all-in-one purchase for your camp kitchen? This Stanley mug and pot kit comes with a pot, lid, and two cups that all stack together for storage. It’s the perfect option to slip into a backpack for a multi-day backcountry hike or keep stowed away in your car camping kit to be ready to hit the road at a moment’s notice. The 10 oz plastic camping mugs are BPA free and insulated, ideal for hot beverages.
The mugs hold 10oz each and the pot holds 24oz, perfect for making coffee for the family or boiling water for pasta. The lid design includes a vent for letting steam escape or straining water. The pot also features a locking handle, which stows away when in storage but locks into place for security while in use.
See Stanley Camp 24oz. Cook Set on Amazon
See Stanley Camp 24oz. Cook Set on Walmart
See Stanley Camp 24oz. Cook Set on Stanley
Most versatile mug: MiiR Camp Cup
- Press on lid
- Medical grade stainless steel
- Double wall insulation
Pros
- Great ergonomic handle
- Lightweight
- Durable stainless steel
Cons
- Some issues with rusting/paint chipping
MiiR’s stainless steel camping mugs are an excellent option for anyone looking for an insulated mug with a great ergonomic grip. The powder coating gives this mug a great texture and since it comes in a variety of colors, there’s a mug for anyone’s style. I’ve used this mug while camping but it’s also versatile enough for the office and around the house. It’s a good size (12oz) for your morning coffee and it is easy to clean.
The sipping lid on the MiiR camp cup is designed to help maintain temperature along with the double-wall vacuum insulation. It’s also safe to wash in the upper rack of a dishwasher. The lid is BPA-free and presses on to help prevent spills. MiiR also offers a limited lifetime warranty for any defects.
Best classic camp mug: Coleman Enamel Camping Mug
- Enamel mug
- Lightweight
- Classic design
Pros
- Can reheat over camp stove
- Won’t break if dropped
- Affordable
Cons
- Some users had issues with the enamel chipping
If you’re looking for a classic option that will last you for a lifetime and you don’t care about an insulated mug, this Coleman enamel mug is great. I’ve used similar Coleman enamel products while camping and they’re always reliable.
These iconic mugs are lightweight and durable. While it might not keep your coffee warm for hours, you can easily use this mug to reheat your coffee on your camp stove when it gets cold. This camping mug holds 12oz of liquid and is so affordable that you might as well buy one for the whole family.
See Coleman Enamel Camping Mug on Amazon
See Coleman Enamel Camping Mug on Walmart
Best camping mugs for couples: Better For Your Branded Couples Camping Mugs
- Choose your own color
- Insulated
- Set of two mugs
Pros
- Durable
- Comfortable handle
- Insulated
Cons
- Hard water leaves a dirty sheen on the outside of the mug
Heading out on a camping trip with your partner? You’ll be able to enjoy your morning coffee with this matching set of stainless steel mugs, storing over 13.5oz of liquid each. Differentiate the two mugs by choosing one color each from a variety of color options (Rose/Teal, Purple/Orange, Blue/Pink). But make sure to soak it in vinegar and water to get rid of the metallic taste before using it the first time.
The double wall insulation on this mug keeps your drinks warm, although it doesn’t come with a lid.
You could throw these stainless steel camping mugs against a brick wall, and they won’t break, unlike traditional porcelain mugs.
See Better For Your Branded Couples Camping Mugs on Amazon
Best titanium camping mug: FinessCity Titanium Camping Mug
- Titanium
- Foldable handle
- Measuring marks
Pros
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Minimalistic
Cons
- Walls get hot
- Expensive
Titanium mugs are well-loved in the camping world. They are lightweight and durable, and these Titanium camping mugs from FinessCity are no different.
They come in two sizes (400ml and 600ml), and you can choose to include a lid.
The handle includes a hinge that allows you to fold it away when not in use. However, the handle is necessary when you have a hot beverage since the thin titanium walls do get quite hot. This mug also includes measuring marks to ensure you’re adding the right amount of water to your freeze-dried meal. The titanium material means no gross metallic taste from the get-go, and it even comes with a cloth case.
See FinessCity Titanium Camping Mug on Amazon
Most aesthetic camp mug: Gentleman’s Hardwear Sportsmans Camping Mug
- Enamel mug
- Fun graphics
Pros
- Lightweight
- Aesthetic
Cons
- Not insulated
Striving for that perfect Instagramable camp aesthetic? This cute enamel mug will add that little touch to your camp scene. This camp cup is made out of cold-rolled lightweight steel with an enamel coating to keep it comfortable to the touch and durable enough for any adventure. Choose from “The Adventure Begins,” “Hit the Road,” or “The Outdoors is Calling” designs.
This camp mug will hold either hot or cold drinks and is just as good for an evening whiskey as it is for morning coffee. The enamel coating is easy to clean but not suitable for dishwashers. The outside of the camp cup does get hot, but on a cold day, there’s nothing like holding a hot mug in your hands — without bulky insulation getting in the way.
See Gentleman’s Hardwear Sportsmans Camping Mug on Amazon
See Gentleman’s Hardwear Sportsmans Camping Mug on Walmart
See Gentleman’s Hardwear Sportsmans Camping Mug on Gentleman’s Hardwear
Best camping mug that fits in car cupholders: RTIC Coffee Mug
- Double-wall vacuum insulation
- Flip top lid
- Tall narrow design
Pros
- Fits in car cupholders
- Great as a camp cup or travel mug
Cons
- Some issues with the lid screwing on properly
RTIC’s coffee mug works just as well as a camp mug as it does for bringing coffee to work. The tall and thin design with a handle near the top of the mug means it fits well in car cup holders. It also includes a spill-proof lid that clicks closed for security. The vacuum-insulated stainless steel mug includes a no-sweat exterior so you don’t have to worry about your ice water accumulating on the outside and needing a coaster.
RTIC claims that this 16oz stainless steel mug will hold ice for up to 24 hours and provide heat retention for hot drinks as well. This camping mug comes in a variety of color options.
See RTIC Coffee Mug on Walmart
Best insulated camping mug: Hydro Flask 12 oz Travel Coffee Mug
- TempShield double wall vacuum insulated mug
- 18/8 pro-grade stainless steel
- Press-in closeable lid
- Hydro Flask logo
Pros
- Insulation helps retain heat for hours
- Multiple size options
- Lots of colors
Cons
- Not as insulated as a fully closed Hydro Flask bottle
No matter where your next adventure takes you, make sure you go fully prepared with this awesome Hydro Flask camping coffee mug. Hydro Flask makes this mug with TempShield double-wall vacuum insulation technology designed by Hydro Flask to keep your drinks at the perfect temperature for longer. Cold beverages remain cold and hot liquids remain hot for hours.
The 18/8 pro-grade stainless steel ensures no weird aftertaste or unwanted flavor is added to your drink and can withstand all outdoor activities! The anti-slip BPA-free grip on the outside of the coffee mug and the handle make it easy to hold without two hands. Plus, the press-in lid is carefully designed to prevent spills, with a closeable sipping opening.
If that’s not enough, these camping coffee mugs come in a range of colors and sizes all with the Hydro Flask logo, so you can enjoy your favorite beverages in a functional and stylish coffee mug!
See Hydro Flask 12 oz Travel Coffee Mug on Amazon
See Hydro Flask 12 oz Travel Coffee Mug on REI
Why trust us
This writer splits her time between living in Southwest Colorado and living out of a van, camping around the Western United States. That means she needs an excellent camp kitchen while not taking up too much space. Sometimes she ditches the van and heads into the backcountry, requiring slightly different equipment. As much as you might love your insulated Hydro Flask camping mug, it’s not going to be the choice to carry 20 miles into the backcountry. So you can trust us to know what you will need for different camp scenarios.
Who this is for
If you like to camp, hike, or backpack and need kitchenware to accompany you on your adventures, this guide to the best camping mugs is for you. Camping mugs are also useful as travel mugs for the person who really just wants to feel like they’re drinking out of a real mug, not an awkward travel mug.
Whether you’re always on the move and need gear to last a lifetime, or you’re an avid weekend warrior, there’s a great camping mug out there for you. This guide to the best camping mugs has all the options, from lightweight backcountry mugs to hefty camping mugs that will keep your drink hot for up to six hours.
How we picked
We wanted to provide a variety of mugs in this guide. This guide includes everything from foldable silicone models to stainless steel vacuum-insulated mugs for all-day ice.
We’re all about high quality, so you can get rid of that old, beat-up plastic camping mug and move onto something that will last you for years to come. We picked the best camping mug options on this list through personal camping experience, reading reviews, and talking to friends.
How we tested
We tested these camping mugs while traveling and camping across the United States, from the red rock deserts of Utah to the North Cascades in Washington. We have tent-camped, van-camped, camped in the backcountry, and taken drinks to work. The best camping mug changes depending on the environment, so we included all of these options in this list. We’ve sipped coffee or tea just about every morning, no matter where we’re located, so having our favorite mug at hand is important.
Features to look for in camping mugs
Lid
Most of the best camping mug options come with a lid. If you want your coffee to stay hot for longer and are worried about spills, finding a camp cup with a lid will be important. And if you do buy one without a lid, it’s possible to buy a lid separately if you do decide you can’t live without it.
Insulation
Some of the best camping mug options are insulated, which will keep your drinks hot or cold for sometimes six hours or more. Insulation can be accomplished with a cozy sleeve or double-wall vacuum-insulated stainless steel. Single-wall mugs will typically be uninsulated but can be lighter, if that is important. If an insulated mug is important to you, we have several of the best-insulated mug options included in this guide.
BPA, BPS, and BPF
Maybe you’ve heard of BPA, but have you heard of BPS (Bisphenol S) or BPF (Bisphenol F)? These compounds are replacing BPA in plastic manufacturing. And they may all have a negative impact on human hormones. However, all of the best cups for camping are free of these chemical compounds, as most are made of stainless steel or materials other than plastic. But if this is important to you in your camping mug decision, make sure to check with the manufacturer to ensure your product is free of these chemical compounds.
Weight
When camping, easy storage and weight can be a big factor, especially while backpacking or packing for a small space. Some of the best camping cups on our list are lightweight, while others would not be a good choice if you’re looking for the lightest weight camp cup on the market. If weight is a factor, make sure to check with the manufacturer to compare the exact weight of the camp cup.
Material
What is your camping mug made out of? While some might prefer stainless steel, others might be happy with metal or a ceramic coating, others might be looking for titanium. This guide includes a variety of materials, including all of the above.
Design
Are looks important to you? Aesthetics definitely matter when choosing a camp mug, but so does shape. If you want your mug to fit in most cup holders, you aren’t going to choose a short, fat mug. Color options are also important. Some of the mugs on our list come with more design options, including size, shape, color, and graphics. Others are only available in one style or color.
Camping mug FAQ
Q: Are camping mugs dishwasher safe?
This depends on the mug. Typically, anything with double-walled vacuum insulation will be hand wash only, as dishwashers can mess up the vacuum insulation. Check with the manufacturer for each product to see if they are dishwasher-safe.
Q: Are campfire mugs microwave safe?
Most camp mugs are not microwave-safe, as many are made out of metal. Again, it depends on the type of material used for the camping mug. Check with the manufacturer to see if the camp mug you’re interested in is microwave safe.
Q: Can I use the camping mugs on the stove?
Again, this depends on the material that the camping mug is made out of. If it’s made out of single-walled stainless steel, titanium, or other metal materials, there’s a possibility you can use it on a camp stove. This makes heating up cold coffee a breeze since you don’t have to get another dish dirty. But double-walled, plastic, or insulated camp mugs can not be used on a camp stove. Again, make sure to check with the manufacturer about the capabilities of your camp mug on a stove.
Q: How long can my coffee stay warm in the mug?
If your mug is insulated, coffee can stay warm for up to a few hours, sometimes longer. If it’s uninsulated, coffee may get cold within 30 minutes. If heat retention is important for you in your coffee mug, make sure to get an insulated stainless steel mug.
Q: Why are enamel mugs used for camping?
Many materials are used for camping mugs, including enamel. Enamel mugs are durable and lightweight, so they make especially good camp mugs. They can also be used on a stove to easily reheat coffee without using another dish.
Sources:
- Are Camping Or Enamel Mugs Microwave & Dishwasher Safe? – OutdoorAlive