Best French Presses for Camping: Brew the Perfect Outdoor Coffee

Nothing beats a fresh cup of coffee in the great outdoors, and a French press is one of the best ways to brew rich, flavorful coffee while camping. Whether you’re car camping, backpacking, or setting up basecamp, having the right camping-friendly French press makes all the difference. In this guide, we’ll explore the best French presses for camping to help you find the perfect one for your next adventure.

What to Look for in a Camping French Press

Before choosing a camping French press, consider these key factors:

• Material: Stainless steel, plastic, or insulated designs affect durability and heat retention.
• Capacity: Options range from 12 oz (single-serving) to 32+ oz (multiple servings).
• Weight & Portability: Lightweight presses are best for backpacking, while heavier models offer better heat retention.
• Durability: Look for shatterproof materials that can withstand rugged outdoor use.
• Ease of Cleaning: A simple plunger and minimal parts make for easier cleanup in the wild.

For more outdoor coffee gear, check out our Best Camping Coffee Makers guide.

Top Camping-Friendly French Presses

1. Stanley Adventure All-in-One French Press – Best for Durability

• Capacity: 32 oz
• Material: Stainless steel, double-wall insulation
• Pros: Keeps coffee hot for hours, built-in boil system
• Cons: Heavier than plastic options

The Stanley Adventure French Press is a rugged, all-in-one brewing system that allows you to boil water and brew coffee in the same container. Perfect for car camping or cold-weather trips.

2. GSI Outdoors JavaPress – Best for Lightweight Camping

• Capacity: 30 oz
• Material: BPA-free plastic with insulating wrap
• Pros: Lightweight, insulated cover for heat retention, easy to use
• Cons: Plastic body is less durable than stainless steel

If you’re looking for a lightweight, packable option, the GSI JavaPress is a great choice for making delicious coffee without adding extra weight to your gear.

3. AeroPress Go – Best for Ultralight Backpacking

• Capacity: 8–10 oz
• Material: BPA-free plastic
• Pros: Compact, lightweight, easy to clean
• Cons: Smaller serving size, requires paper filters

For backpackers who prioritize weight and portability, the AeroPress Go is an ultralight alternative that provides smooth, grit-free coffee in minutes.

4. Planetary Design BruTrek French Press – Best for Heat Retention

• Capacity: 32 oz
• Material: Stainless steel, double-wall insulation
• Pros: No-mess plunger, vacuum-sealed insulation, ultra-durable
• Cons: Bulkier than other options

The BruTrek French Press is designed for rugged camping conditions, with vacuum-sealed insulation that keeps coffee hot for hours and a unique plunger that prevents over-extraction.

5. OXO Outdoor Campgrounds French Press – Best for Easy Cleaning

• Capacity: 24 oz
• Material: BPA-free shatterproof plastic
• Pros: Break-resistant, integrated grounds catcher for easy cleaning
• Cons: Not as well-insulated as stainless steel models

For campers who want a hassle-free cleanup, the OXO Outdoor French Press has an innovative grounds catcher that makes disposal quick and easy.

Comparison Table: Best Camping French Presses

French Press	Best For	Capacity	Material	Pros	Cons
Stanley Adventure	Durability	32 oz	Stainless Steel	Keeps coffee hot, boil-and-brew	Heavy
GSI JavaPress	Lightweight Camping	30 oz	BPA-Free Plastic	Lightweight, insulated	Less durable than metal
AeroPress Go	Ultralight Backpacking	8–10 oz	BPA-Free Plastic	Compact, easy to clean	Small serving size
BruTrek French Press	Heat Retention	32 oz	Stainless Steel	No-mess plunger, vacuum-insulated	Bulkier
OXO Outdoor Press	Easy Cleaning	24 oz	BPA-Free Plastic	Break-resistant, easy disposal	Less insulated

FAQ: Camping French Presses

Why use a French press for camping?

A French press is simple to use, requires no electricity, and makes strong, full-bodied coffee without the need for paper filters.

How do I clean a French press while camping?

• Dump coffee grounds into a waste bag or compostable container.
• Rinse with water and scrub with a small brush or sponge.
• Use biodegradable soap for a deep clean when needed.

How do I keep my coffee hot longer while camping?

• Use a double-wall insulated French press (like Stanley or BruTrek).
• Preheat the press with hot water before brewing.
• Store brewed coffee in a vacuum-sealed thermos.

Can I use pre-ground coffee in a French press?

Yes, but coarse-ground coffee works best to prevent excess sediment. Avoid fine-grind coffee, as it can slip through the mesh filter.

What’s the best way to brew French press coffee while camping?

1. Boil water using a camp stove or kettle.
2. Add coarse-ground coffee (about 2 tbsp per 8 oz of water).
3. Pour hot water over the grounds and stir.
4. Let steep for 4–5 minutes, then press the plunger down slowly.
5. Serve and enjoy!

For more brewing tips, check out our Best Camping Coffee Makers guide.

Tips for Making Great French Press Coffee While Camping

• Use filtered water for better taste.
• Preheat your French press to keep coffee hotter longer.
• Let coffee bloom (wait 30 seconds after pouring water) for better flavor extraction.
• Press the plunger slowly to reduce grit and sediment.
• Pair with an insulated travel mug to keep your coffee warm on the go.

For more camping coffee gadgets, explore our Best Camping Coffee Gadgets guide.

Final Thoughts

A camping-friendly French press makes it easy to enjoy delicious, full-bodied coffee wherever your adventures take you. Whether you need a rugged, stainless steel model for heat retention or a lightweight plastic press for backpacking, there’s an option for every camper.

Looking for more camping coffee gear? Check out our guides to Best Camping Coffee Makers and Best Camping Mugs to upgrade your morning routine.