Instant Coffee for Camping: Best Options for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Camping trips should be all about relaxation, adventure, and of course, a great cup of coffee! Whether you’re camping in the mountains, by the beach, or on a backcountry trail, having reliable instant coffee for camping can elevate your outdoor mornings. With the right choice, you can enjoy quick, flavorful coffee anywhere, without sacrificing taste or portability.

Before we delve into the results, let’s breathe in and glance at the coffee consumption worldwide from 2012/13 to 2021/22 with a forecast to 2022/23.

For coffee lovers who crave that morning ritual even in the great outdoors, instant coffee has become the go-to solution for its ease, convenience, and packability.

In this guide, we’ll cover the best instant coffee brands and discuss the most portable coffee for camping that’ll have you sipping liquid gold even in the most remote wilderness.

Let’s ensure your caffeine fix is just as bold and satisfying as it is at home, no matter where your adventure takes you.

Why Choose Instant Coffee for Camping?

Let me tell you, instant coffee has totally transformed my camping trips, and I can’t believe it took me so long to make the switch. I used to be that person who packed a French press, a grinder, and even bags of fresh beans, thinking I’d be able to enjoy my “gourmet” coffee in the middle of nowhere. Sounds fancy, right?

Well, it also turned out to be a hassle. Imagine trying to clean a French press when you’re miles from the nearest water source. Not fun! That’s when I realized that the true MVP of outdoor adventures is instant coffee.

Convenience and portability

First off, convenience and portability are huge. When you’re backpacking or camping, every ounce in your pack counts, and those heavy coffee gadgets? They add up. Instant coffee, on the other hand, is feather-light and portable ideal for ultralight backpacking. No need for bulky camping coffee equipment; just toss some sachets into your bag, and you’re set.

I remember one time I tried to shove a giant bag of beans into my already overstuffed hiking pack. Big mistake—I ended up sacrificing snacks to make room.

Quick and easy preparation

Another thing that won me over is how quick and easy it is to prepare. After a long day of hiking, the last thing you want is to fuss around with complicated brewing techniques. You want your caffeine fix fast. All you need for instant coffee is hot water, and boom—you’ve got a steaming cup ready in under a minute. 

There was one morning, after an especially chilly night, when I could barely move my fingers from the cold. I needed coffee now, and if I’d had to fiddle with a French press, I’d probably still be shivering. Instead, I just heated some water over the campfire, stirred in my instant coffee, and felt human again in no time.

In short, no need for complex camping coffee brewing techniques, just simple and quick caffeine whenever you need it.

Minimal equipment required

Now, let’s talk about minimal equipment. This one’s a game-changer, especially if you’re trying to go ultra-light or just don’t feel like dealing with extra cleanup. This makes it a great choice for van life, survival kits, and emergencies.

With instant coffee, all you really need is a pot or kettle to heat your water. No grinders, no fancy filters, no multiple steps. That’s it. One time I forgot to bring a pot (rookie mistake), but luckily I had a metal cup, and I was still able to heat water over the fire. Talk about minimalistic.

There’s a whole world of flavors out there now. You’ve got your classic roasts, your fancy schmancy vanilla lattes, even some with added vitamins if that’s your thing. It’s like a coffee wonderland in a tiny packet.

Longer shelf life compared to ground coffee

Another thing I love? The shelf life. Instant coffee lasts forever compared to ground coffee. Okay, not forever, but it sure feels like it. Those little packets or jars can sit in your camping gear for months, and they’ll still taste just fine when you finally use them.

Ground coffee, on the other hand, loses its freshness fast. Trust me, I’ve tried bringing ground coffee on a week-long trip, only to discover by day three that it tasted stale. With instant coffee, it’s one less thing to worry about.

Plus, some of the freeze-dried varieties out there taste surprisingly good these days. I’m not talking about your grandpa’s instant coffee anymore—brands have really stepped up their game.

Variety of flavors and strengths available

And don’t get me started on the variety of flavors and strengths available now. You can find everything from dark roast to hazelnut-flavored instant coffee. So if you’re a bit of a coffee snob (like I used to be), you don’t have to settle for plain ol’ basic coffee.

You can choose the flavor or strength that matches your vibe for the day. It’s also perfect when you’re camping with friends who have different tastes. There are also low-acid instant coffee for campers with sensitive stomachs.

In a nutshell, everyone gets what they want without having to bring multiple brewing methods.

I’ve even brought along some fancy-flavored instant packets just to make my campfire mornings feel a little more indulgent. Nothing like sipping a caramel latte while surrounded by nature—without needing to carry a milk frother, of course!

In the end, instant coffee isn’t just about convenience; it’s about making your camping experience more enjoyable. The less time and effort I spend prepping my coffee, the more time I can spend enjoying the view, going on hikes, or just soaking in the peace and quiet of nature. And honestly, isn’t that what camping is all about?

So next time you’re planning a camping trip, do yourself a favor and pack some instant coffee. Your future self, groggy and in need of caffeine, will thank you. Trust me, I’ve been there, done that, and got the “I heart instant coffee” t-shirt to prove it.

Top 5 Instant Coffee Brands for Camping in 2024

When it comes to camping, coffee is non-negotiable for me. But let’s be real: there’s no way I’m lugging a French press and bags of beans into the wild. That’s where instant coffee comes in clutch. Over the years, I’ve tried a ton of different brands, and by 2024, there are a few standouts that have become my go-tos for camping trips.

Whether you’re a flavor fanatic or an eco-conscious camper, here are my top 5 instant coffee brands to take with you on your next outdoor adventure.

1. Mount Hagen Organic Instant Coffee: Great for eco-conscious campers

Mount Hagen is your perfect brand among sustainable camping coffee options if you care about sustainability as much as a good cup of coffee. They’re certified organic, and the taste is surprisingly smooth for an instant coffee—none of that weird bitterness you sometimes get.

It’s made from 100% Arabica beans, which gives it a richer flavor profile. I’ve found that the single-serve packets are perfect for camping. They’re lightweight, easy to toss into your pack, and because they’re organic and fair-trade, you feel good about sipping it while you’re out appreciating nature.

There was one trip where I ran out halfway through the weekend, and I remember actually missing this coffee. That says a lot, right?

2. Starbucks VIA Ready Brew: For fans of bold and rich flavors

Ah, Starbucks. Love them or hate them, there’s no denying that they’ve perfected the art of bold coffee. Starbucks VIA Ready Brew is great if you like your coffee strong and flavorful, even while sitting around a campfire.

The packets are designed to be instant, but they still manage to pack that signature Starbucks punch. It’s also perfect for instant coffee for international travel since it’s available globally.

I personally reach for VIA when I’m in the mood for something more intense. They offer several different roasts, but the Italian Roast is my favorite. One downside? It’s a little more expensive than other options, but for that familiar taste, I’d say it’s worth it.

3. Alpine Start Coffee: Perfect for outdoor adventurers seeking a smooth, balanced taste

Alpine Start was literally made for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s developed by adventurers, so you know they had people like us in mind. What I love about Alpine Start is how smooth it is—it’s not as bold as Starbucks VIA, but it’s also not weak. It hits that sweet spot of being balanced and enjoyable, perfect for early mornings before a big hike or when you’re sitting around the campfire in the evening.

I first tried this brand on a week-long camping trip in the Rockies, and it became an instant (pun intended) favorite. It’s especially nice when you want something that feels like a “real” cup of coffee, but without the hassle.

4. Waka Coffee Quality Instant Coffee: Known for its premium taste and convenience

Waka Coffee is for those of us who refuse to compromise on taste, even in the middle of nowhere. Seriously, it tastes like it was brewed fresh. It’s made from freeze-dried Arabica beans, so it holds onto a lot of the flavor that can sometimes get lost with instant coffee.

Waka also dissolves super quickly, which is a worthy contender in the freeze-dried coffee for outdoors space. I remember the first time I tried Waka, I thought, “Wait, is this really instant coffee?” It’s that good. Plus, their packaging is compact, which makes it a breeze to throw in your camping gear.

5. Four Sigmatic Mushroom Coffee: A unique blend with added health benefits

Okay, I know what you’re thinking—mushroom coffee? But hear me out. Four Sigmatic’s blend mixes instant coffee with adaptogenic mushrooms like lion’s mane and chaga, which have potential health benefits like boosting focus and reducing stress. Perfect for when you need a little mental clarity out in the wild.

I was skeptical at first too, but once I tried it, I was hooked. The coffee itself tastes rich and earthy, and honestly, the mushrooms are so subtle you’d barely notice them if no one told you. It’s great for those who want a little extra wellness boost while still getting their caffeine fix.

Plus, it has less caffeine than your average cup, making it a good choice for those looking for camping coffee alternatives with added health benefits.

How to Choose the Right Instant Coffee for Your Camping Trip

Choosing the right instant coffee for your camping trip can feel a little overwhelming with so many options out there, but once you nail down a few key things, it becomes way easier. I’ve been there, standing in the coffee aisle (or scrolling through an online store), trying to figure out which one will not only taste good but also be practical for the great outdoors.

Over time, I’ve learned there are some must-consider factors to make sure you’re getting exactly what you need for that perfect cup around the campfire. Here’s how I’ve approached it.

Consider your taste preferences (strength, flavor profiles)

First off, think about how you like your coffee—this is the biggest one for me. Do you like it strong, or are you more into a milder brew? Some people like their coffee so bold it practically jumps out of the cup, while others prefer something more balanced and mellow.

Instant coffee brands can vary a lot when it comes to strength and flavor profiles, so it’s important to get one that matches what you enjoy. 

For example, if you’re all about bold, rich flavors, Starbucks VIA might be your jam. But if you like a smoother, more balanced cup, Alpine Start could be a better fit. Whether you prefer gourmet instant coffee or robust instant coffee blends, there’s an option for every palate.

I remember grabbing a super light roast once (by accident) when I usually go for dark roasts, and it just didn’t do it for me. Lesson learned: always know your flavor preferences before buying!

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even look for instant coffees that offer unique flavor profiles, like hazelnut or vanilla. Just be mindful—those added flavors can sometimes taste artificial or overly sweet, which isn’t always ideal when you’re craving a pure coffee experience in nature.

Evaluate packaging and portability

One thing I cannot stress enough is packaging. It’s often overlooked, but trust me, it makes a huge difference when you’re camping. You want instant coffee that’s easy to pack, lightweight, and compact. The best options come in individual, single-serve packets, which means you don’t have to carry around a whole jar or bag of coffee.

Mount Hagen and Waka Coffee do a great job here—their packets are small, easy to open, and won’t add unnecessary bulk to your gear.

But if you’re camping coffee for large groups and planning on brewing for several people, you might want to consider buying a larger, resealable pouch of instant coffee. I’ve made the mistake of bringing too few individual servings on a trip, which led to a coffee shortage on day two.

Don’t be me—plan ahead and bring enough for everyone (and a little extra, just in case!).

Check for additional ingredients or flavors

Some instant coffee brands sneak in extra ingredients, like sugar, creamer, or even health-boosting additives like mushrooms (hello, Four Sigmatic Mushroom Coffee). These can be great if you want a convenient, all-in-one coffee experience, but they can also be a dealbreaker if you prefer to control the strength and flavor of your coffee yourself.

When I’m camping, I personally prefer plain coffee so I can adjust the sweetness and creaminess to my liking. However, if you’re trying to pack light and want fewer extras to carry (like sugar or powdered creamer), these all-in-one packets can be super convenient.

Just make sure you actually like the taste of the added ingredients before you commit to a whole trip’s worth. I learned the hard way once—brought a mocha-flavored instant coffee without trying it first and ended up regretting it the whole weekend.

Try flavored instant coffee for outdoors, like hazelnut or caramel, to make your mornings even more enjoyable. Best instant coffee for cold brew options are also available if you prefer iced coffee during your adventure.

Assess serving size and quantity needed

Coffee consumption can go up when you’re camping. I don’t know about you, but there’s something about waking up to crisp mountain air that makes me crave two (okay, maybe three) cups of coffee in the morning.

That means you’ve got to figure out how much coffee you’ll need to bring. Take a look at the serving size for each brand—some come in single servings, while others are designed for multiple cups.

If you’re solo camping for just a night or two, a couple of single-serve packets might be all you need. But if you’re out for a week or camping with friends, you’ll want to grab a pack that offers enough servings to cover the entire trip. Overestimate, too. Coffee rationing is no fun when you’re out in the wild with no quick fix in sight.

Look for eco-friendly and sustainable options

Last but definitely not least, if you’re an eco-conscious camper (and I hope you are), look for brands that prioritize sustainability. For sustainable camping coffee options choose brands like Mount Hagen —they’re not only organic, but they’re also fair trade certified, meaning the farmers are getting a fair price for their beans, and the environmental impact is lower.

The packaging also matters; go for compostable or recyclable options whenever possible. There’s nothing worse than trekking out to a pristine campsite, only to realize your coffee packaging is going to end up as landfill waste.

Some brands are really stepping it up when it comes to being eco-friendly, so it’s worth checking out their credentials if this is important to you. After all, enjoying nature and preserving it should go hand in hand, right?

At the end of the day, choosing the right instant coffee for your camping trip boils down to a mix of taste, convenience, and practicality.

Once you figure out what matters most to you—whether it’s bold flavor, easy packing, or sustainability—you’ll be sipping on the perfect cup of coffee while soaking in those outdoor vibes. And trust me, there’s nothing better than that first hot sip when the morning chill still hangs in the air. Happy camping, and even happier sipping!

Final Thoughts

Camping doesn’t mean sacrificing your love for coffee! With so many great instant coffee options available in 2024, you can enjoy a bold and flavorful cup no matter where your adventures take you.

Whether you’re looking for organic options, rich flavors, or a unique twist with mushroom coffee, these brands have you covered. Remember, a great cup of coffee can turn a good camping trip into an unforgettable one.

So, pack your favorite instant coffee, hit the trails, and savor every sip as you take in the breathtaking views. Happy camping and even happier brewing!