There’s just something about a fresh cup of coffee in the still morning air. The smell of the beans, the sound of the kettle, and the first sip while you take in the view—it’s one of the finest rituals in overlanding. Making coffee on the trail doesn’t need to be complicated; in fact, that’s part of the beauty of it.
Cowboy Coffee and Beyond
The simplest way to make coffee outdoors is the classic cowboy coffee—just grounds, water, and heat. It’s bold, strong, and perfectly rugged. But these days, there are plenty of ways to brew a great cup while overlanding. From pour-overs and French presses to instant coffee and compact K-cup brewers, you can find a setup that fits your rig and your taste.
Building Your Camp Coffee Kit
At home, we take pressing a button for granted. Out on the trail, making coffee becomes an experience. Many overlanders keep a dedicated “coffee kit” packed with essentials. Watching your water heat and coffee steep can be meditative—a small, quiet start to a day of dirt roads and exploration.
A simple kit includes:
- Ground or whole bean coffee
- Grinder (hand-powered preferred)
- Brewing device (French press, pour-over, etc.)
- Heat source
- Quality water and a clean mug
Grind or No Grind
Whole bean coffee stays fresher longer, making it ideal for longer trips. If you have the space, bring a hand grinder—it’s durable, quiet, and doesn’t rely on power. Electric grinders are convenient, but the manual method keeps things simple and reliable.
Bring the Heat
A campfire gives your coffee that classic backcountry flair, but a camp stove offers control and consistency. Whether you use a single-burner or a two-burner, keep your water just below boiling for the best flavor. Too hot, and you risk bitterness.
Don’t Forget the Water
Good coffee starts with good water. Filtered or bottled water prevents unwanted flavors and keeps your brew clean. Pack extra so you have enough for drinking, cooking, and cleanup.
Pick Your Brewer
There’s no shortage of options for brewing on the trail. A Stanley French Press is a tried-and-true piece of gear—sturdy, though a bit bulky. For lighter travel, try the Aeropress, GSI JavaPress, or GSI Pour-Over set. Each produces quality coffee with minimal fuss.
Favorite Trail Roasters
Finding good coffee is part of the fun. Local Michigan-based roasters make it easy to support local businesses while fueling your journey. Below are some others that are favorites we pick up before hitting the road.
- Got Your Six Coffee – Veteran-owned and based in Michigan, their lineup ranges from dark to light with bold, balanced flavors.
- Hikers Brew – Compact, eco-friendly pouches made for travel. The S‘mores blend adds a little indulgence to your morning routine.
- Fire Department Coffee – a favorite at home and on the road. They offer a good variety of flavored and non-flavored blends of all kinds.
- Michigan Overland Coffee Co. – Shameless plug for our own brand. Simple and delicious brews and teas of all kinds.
Final Sip
Whether you’re deep in the forest or parked lakeside, a great cup of coffee can elevate your entire day. All it takes is the right gear, quality beans, and a few mindful moments by the fire.
