How to Make the Best Campfire Coffee
Camping, trail running, and campfire coffee
This week is National Parks week, and that means weâve got trail running and camping on the brain. And along with camping comes the quest for the perfect camping coffee … because thereâs something magical about holding a steaming mug in the great outdoors after sleeping under the stars.
We set out to publish something about how to make the perfect cup, but in the process, decided we simply couldnât offer less than three options. So, here they are:
AEROPRESS - For the coffee snob, espresso lover, and solo adventurer
Itâs been tested time and time again. Without fail, the coffee/espresso that comes out of the AeroPress is nothing shy of perfect. Itâs a bright, sediment-free cup oâ joe that even the snobbiest of coffee connoisseurs will enjoy tent side (in fact, some coffee shops actually sell AeroPress coffee).
If there are any downsides to this brew method, itâs the yield (it only makes one small cup at a time, so you have to really love the coffee making ritual to go through the process); and the parts (it has eight separate easily misplace-able pieces). Thatâs a lot to keep track of, much less wash and keep in one piece.
14-CUP PERCOLATOR - For the old-fashioned, enjoy-the-morning slow movers, and group campers
Stoke the campfire, set up the campfire grill, and throw on a good olâ fashioned 14-cup percolator from Coleman. If youâre generally OK with most brew methods—or if you already use a percolator or a regular drip coffee machine at home—youâll have no qualms with the resulting java. As the coffee percolates, use your brew time to pull out the trail map and review your dayâs route.
Downsides are taste and time. Over brewing produces a burnt-tasting cup.
INSTANT COFFEE - For the get-up-and-goers and feather-light packers
Starbucks VIA instant coffee is probably the easiest and fastest method for making camping coffee. And, the single-serving pre-packaged coffees come in a variety of roasts and flavors. Itâs a dependable and efficient method for super charging with speed so you can start your day ASAP. Simply boil some water, pour over the coffee powder in your cup, stir and, voila! Whatâs more, the tiny packages take up hardly any room, so theyâre perfect for the fast nâ light packers among us.
Downsides? Ummmm, we donât really think there are any.
Ready to head out on your next trail-running adventure? Learn more about our favorite National Parks to run through here.
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